The King of Rome Plaque - Derby

Hello, my name is Kalwinder Singh Dhindsa. I am a local historian who loves sharing stories about my hometown of Derby.

I have created this page to raise funds for a plaque for a pigeon.

A tribute to the legendary King of Rome Racing Pigeon and its owner, Charles Hudson.

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Honour Thy Pigeon by Kalwinder Singh Dhindsa.

Rats with wings not pretty little things.

Disgusting and diseased nothing but mings.

Feral and free they have no respect.

Eyes on your food or maybe your neck?

Related to doves and racing royalty.

32 Dickin Medals for war time gallantry.

I am from Derby just like the blue cock.

A legend of flight that we should not mock.

Blue Cork of West Derby you must come and see'em.

Rests with Wrights in Derby Museum.

The King of Rome; glass box on a wall.

The pride of Derby; loved by all.

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If you want to find out more information about the story of this pigeon in particular, please listen to the song 'The King of Rome' by Dave Sudbury.

(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y97SXJR8cVo&t=265s&ab_channel=comedyhunter)

Video Credit - Andy Savage

(www.derbyphotos.co.uk)

The plaque will be installed inside the Maypole Cafe Bar and Theatre, on 42 Brook Street in the West End of Derby.

The actual house that Charles Hudson lived at was number 56 Brook Street, further down the road. This house has long since been knocked down.

The plaque will be unveiled on October 29th 2022.

Special thanks to :

This tribute is important to me because the 'King of Rome' story is an inspirational tale of defiance in the face of, what appears to be, impossible odds. A reminder to us all to never give up when going through extreme difficulties in life.

The funds collected will be used to pay for the making of the plaque and the installation.

#KORDerby