Aphra Behn Statue

In the later 20th century, as the life and work of the much-neglected female Restoration writer Aphra Behn (1640-1689) was seeping into the public consciousness after long years of neglect, scholars turned their attention to her early life, upbringing and influences. Even her place of birth was uncertain. When in the 21st century Canterbury had been firmly established as the city where she passed her formative years, the Society launched a campaign to erect an appropriate memorial to her. Its purpose was not just to commemorate but also to inform and educate about Britain’s first female professional writer.  

Work began in 2021. Simultaneously, funds were raised (many from small online donations), information about the remarkable self-educated spy-poet-playwright-translator was broadcast around the globe, and the distinguished sculptor Christine Charlesworth commissioned to produce an appropriate bronze statue. It represents a young woman, shown at the age she left Canterbury for London, standing not on a plinth but at street level with her fellow citizens. After much debate, a site was chosen on the High Street outside the Beaney House of Art and Knowledge. From there, she and Chaucer can exchange knowing glances. 

The fundraising involved several social events, including a concert and a magnificent auction-dinner. These were crowned by the official unveiling of the statue by Her Majesty Queen Camilla on 23 February 2025, followed by a lively reception at the Abode Hotel. 

Read about Aphra’s royal welcome.

This short BBC video explains why Aphra Behn is so important:

More about Aphra Behn

See also the education section on this site.