Farnham celebrates legacy of Lt Col John Luard

A new plaque honouring Lieutenant Colonel John Luard has been unveiled on Farnham’s ‘Notable Names’ wall, recognising his extraordinary contributions as a distinguished soldier, author, artist, and the founding chairman of the Farnham School of Art – now the internationally renowned University for the Creative Arts (UCA).

The unveiling ceremony, attended by Deputy Lieutenant Brigadier Julian Ladd, the Mayor of Farnham, family of John Luard and special guests marked the 150th anniversary of Luard’s death in October 1885.

The Notable Names of Farnham wall, located in South Street, commemorates individuals with a close connection to Farnham and who have achieved excellence in fields as diverse as music, sport, architecture, and the arts. Luard’s plaque is the 35th to be added to the wall.

Speaking at the unveiling, the Mayor of Farnham Councillor George Murray said: “This is a special day for Farnham as we remember Lieutenant Colonel John Luard. His achievements on the battlefield and as a published soldier-artist are remarkable, but it is his role in founding the Farnham School of Art in 1871 that has left the greatest legacy for our town. The institution he helped to establish has flourished for over 150 years and today stands as the University for the Creative Arts which is a world-leading centre of design and innovation.”

Born in 1790, Luard enjoyed a distinguished military career, serving in the Peninsular War under the Duke of Wellington and later at Waterloo in 1815. Alongside his service, he produced detailed sketches and illustrations of military campaigns, daily army life, and foreign landscapes, many of which were later published and remain historically significant.

On returning to Farnham, Luard played a leading role in civic life. Most notably, in April 1871, he chaired the public meeting that founded the Farnham School of Art. Within months, subscriptions were raised, and classes began, providing creative education to the community.

Councillor Murray added: “John Luard combined service, creativity, and civic duty. By founding the art school, he set in motion a legacy that has enriched countless lives and contributed to Farnham’s designation as England’s first Craft Town in 2020. He fully deserves his place on our wall of distinction.”

The unveiling was followed by a gathering in the Council Chamber, where guests reflected on Luard’s impact on Farnham’s cultural and educational heritage as well as his wider contribution to military life.