New blue plaque for two of Bedford’s famous exports

Image: Bedford.

A new plaque has been unveiled in Bedford, the fifth in a series of new plaques being put up around the town, honouring Joshua and Hester Hawkins, two extraordinary figures in Bedford’s history. You’ll find it on the wall of the couple’s former address, 18 Linden Road, which is now home to the YMCA.

Joshua Hawkins was mayor of Bedford five times and the editor of the Bedfordshire Times, as well as being pivotal in the provision of some of the town’s biggest landmarks including the suspension bridge. Hester Hawkins was equally honoured for her services as a novelist, astronomer and hymn writer.
You’ll find Joshua Hawkins honoured on a number of other plaques around the town at County Bridge, Prebend Street, the Suspension Bridge, the Old Fire Station, Mill Street and at Bedford School.