16 Aug 2026
A new commemorative blue plaque honouring the life and work of the distinguished local British watercolourist, etcher, and draftsman, Holmes Edwin Cornelius Winter (1851–1935) will be unveiled next month.
The unveiling ceremony by heritage group Blue Plaques St Albans, will take place at his former residence, 9 Alma Road, Saturday September 5 at 11am.
Holmes Winter was a prominent figure in the local arts scene during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Known for his evocative landscape paintings, detailed architectural studies, and capture of Hertfordshire’s historic charm, Winter’s work remains an invaluable visual record of St Albans’ rich heritage.
The plaque at 9 Alma Road marks the building where Winter lived and worked during a key creative period of his career, providing a lasting connection between his artistic legacy and the city he so frequently depicted.
“Holmes Winter captured the essence and history of St Albans at a time of significant change,” said Professor Tim Boatswain, Chair of Blue Plaques St Albans.
“Installing this plaque at his former home on Alma Road ensures that his contribution to our local culture and visual heritage continues to be recognised by residents and visitors alike.
“Blue Plaques St Albans is immensely grateful to Liz Holliday, whose late husband, Malcolm Holliday, was an enthusiastic collector of Holmes Winter’s works, for her support and sponsorship of this blue plaque “
Members of the public, local history enthusiasts, and press are warmly invited to attend the ceremony.
