With various parts of the town being given a facelift on account of the season which is now in full swing work on beautifying the Adam Memorial Fountain popularly called the Adam’s Fountain commenced recently.
Located at Charing Cross on the threshold of the town, the Fountain is the most popular landmark and one of the most photographed features of this holiday destination.
Sir Fredrick Price in his compilation, ‘Ootacamund-A History’ published in 1908 says “This (the Fountain), which is a memorial to a Governor who made himself in every way popular during a brief tenure of office terminated by his death at Ootacamund, was erected by public subscription sometime in 1886 at a total cost between Rs. 13,000 and 14,000.”
The fountain was shifted from a site in front of the Collector's office to its current location in 1898.
Welcoming the move to beautify the heritage structure, Geetha Srinivasan, convener, Indian National Trust for Art, Culture and Heritage (INTACH), The Nilgiris chapter pointed out that it was a prized possession of the hill station and one of the most visible links of the past and present.
Residents hoped that the entire Charing Cross would wear an attractive look soon. Since the fountain provides an ideal backdrop for photographs and videos the administration should ensure that it is not defaced with posters and hoardings are not erected around it.
