Lucy Dales Sculpture – Lightbulb and Mayoral chain
Lucy Dales holds a special place in Dunstable’s history as the town’s first female mayor, a role she took on in an era when it was rare for women to be in positions of public leadership. One of the notable achievements during Lucy’s term as mayor was the arrival of electricity to Dunstable – a sculpture marked by the lightbulb alongside her mayoral chain. Known for managing her father’s factory, she broke barriers for women in both business and local government. Her leadership helped modernise Dunstable, making her a celebrated figure in the town’s history.
Lucy Dales was the first lady Mayor of Dunstable as detailed in a Dunstable and District Local History Society (DDLHS) Newsletter. She was also factory manager for her father’s business.
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The concept behind the wooden sculptures
The inspiration came from recognising notable historical significances in Dunstable as part of the High Street Heritage Action Zone (HSHAZ) scheme. Crafted entirely from English oak, the sculptures were created using wood sourced from various locations, including Leicestershire, Nottinghamshire, and a golf course near Southampton. The wood used was from trees that had been cut down as part of general land management. Dunstable Town Council commissioned sculpturer Peter Leadbeater who brought the historical vision to life.
Thanks to funding from Historic England Dunstable HSHAZ scheme and the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) through Central Bedfordshire Council (CBC) for making this project possible.
