Local historian: Exmouth's Rusty Pole gone after 114 years

By Mike Menhenitt 17th Apr 2023

Exmouth's famous Rusty Pole, which was erected in 1909 on The Maer and stood majestically there for 114 years was removed by South West Water on Thursday (13 April).

It was a famous landmark on The Maer and much venerated by locals and visitors alike.

The Maer looks a sadder place without it and it remains a mystery why it was removed, without any consultation, particularly as moves were afoot to have it listed as an item of historical interest.

A spokesman for the Rusty Pole Society of Exmouth said: "It is a very sad day for Exmouth with such a landmark being removed.

"Many people walked past it every day, some laying stones, pebbles or flowers there and their dogs loved it too!

"We do not understand why such a monument had to be removed. It was quite safe, hurt no one and provided a much loved focal point for many people.

"South West Water have provided no such explanation as to why they took such action without consulting the townspeople. We would welcome a response from them.

"The future of the society is now unknown as the committee and members are still in shock – but 13 April will forever be known as Rusty Pole Day."

Why not pay a visit to Exmouth Museum? You can also e-mail your historian at [email protected].

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Ed: This article is from Mike Menhenitt's Walking Through Exmouth History series. Use the links below to read previous articles:

Part One: The beginnings of Exmouth, from the Stone Age to the Bronze Age

Part Two: Exmouth in the Iron Age - and the arrival of the Celts

Part Three: Roman coins and Viking raids

Part Four: The impact of the Norman conquest, and how places in Exmouth got their names

Part Five: How Exmouth became a fashionable seaside resort in the 18th century

Part Six: How the docks brought prosperity to Exmouth - and then became the marina

Part Seven: The coming of the railway

Part Eight: Turnpikes, toll houses and inns in Exmouth