Council won’t begin talks with Narryna Heritage Museum to house Crowther statue

Within a few weeks, the Hobart City Council is expected to lodge its application to remove the Crowther statue. Meanwhile, one councillor has a suggestion for its new home.

Sign placed at the William Crowther statue in Franklin Square Hobart. Picture: Nikki Davis-Jones

A Hobart City councillor has suggested the controversial statue of William Crowther in Franklin Square be relocated to a heritage museum in Battery Point.

In August, the Hobart City Council voted the statue would be removed, because of the history around the Crowther, who mutilated the remains of Aboriginal man William Lanne.

On Monday, Louise Elliot, who has opposed the removal of the statue, suggested on Monday the Narryna Heritage Museum be considered.

“I have heard from multiple of Dr Crowther’s descendants, that is a location the family would like to be considered as the new home for the statue,” Ms Elliot said.

Hobart City councillor Louise Elliot. Picture: Chris Kidd

Ms Elliot moved the council urgently begin conversations with Narryna about the statue.

“We could potentially have, if it’s viable for both sides, the bronze part moved directly from Franklin Square to Narryna, with no time in any back cupboards gathering dust.

“My understanding is Dr Crowther actually had a large role in setting up Narryna.”

Hobart Lord Mayor Anna Reynolds said the museum was part of the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery, which was already involved in discussions about statue’s future.

The majority of elected members rejected entering discussions with Narryna.

The development application to remove the statue is expected to be lodged in the coming weeks.