91³Ô¹ÏÍø

{On the front of the body of the plinth:}
In memory of Isaac Watts, D.D. and in testimony of the high and lasting esteem in which his character and writings are held in the great Christian community by whom the English language is spoken. Of his psalms and hymns it may be predicted in his own words:
"Ages unborn shall make his songs the joy and labour of their tongues."
He was born at Southampton July 17 1674. Died November 25 1748, after a residence of 36 years in the mansion of Sir Thomas Abney, Bart. then standing in these grounds.

{On the front of the pedestal:}
Few men have left behind such purity of character or such monuments of laborious piety. He has provided instruction for all ages from those who are lisping their first lessons to the enlightened readers of Malebranche and Locke. He has left neither corporeal nor spiritual nature unexamined. He has taught the art of reasoning and the science of the stars. Such he was, as every Christian church would rejoice to have adopted.
Johnson

{On the front of the base:}
Erected by public subscription September 1845.