blue plaque · London
William Strang

This blue plaque commemorates William Strang, a distinguished painter and etcher who resided at this address. Strang was a notable figure in the British art scene, known for his diverse artistic output which included portraits, landscapes, and allegorical works, as well as his significant contributions to etching. His career spanned from the late 19th into the early 20th century, during a period of considerable innovation and change in the art world. This plaque serves as a public acknowledgment of his artistic legacy and his connection to the local area, marking a place he called home during a significant part of his life and career.
The blue plaque tradition, within which this memorial stands, stretches back to the mid-19th century in London, aiming to connect notable figures of the past with the buildings they inhabited. This specific plaque dates from an era reflecting a sustained commitment to recognising individuals who have made substantial contributions to arts, sciences, and public life. It is part of a wider civic tradition that seeks to enrich the urban landscape with historical markers, allowing residents and visitors alike to reflect on the stories embedded within the city's architecture. The presence of such a plaque indicates a considered effort to preserve and publicise local heritage.
The plaque dedicated to William Strang is situated at 20 Hamilton Terrace, an address in the Westminster area of London, NW8. Visitors will find this commemorative marker affixed to the exterior of the building, making it accessible for public viewing. Hamilton Terrace is a residential street, offering a chance to see one of Westminster's historically significant architectural settings. The area is well-connected by public transport, allowing for respectful visitation to observe the plaque and reflect on the artist's life in this urban environment.
Inscription
“William Strang 1859-1921 painter and etcher lived here 1900-1921”
Background
William Strang, 1st Baron Strang (2 January 1893–27 May 1978) was a British diplomat who served as a leading adviser to the British Government from the 1930s to the 1950s and as Permanent Under-Secretary at the Foreign Office from 1949 to 1953. During his Foreign Office career, he was involved in the Munich Agreement, the Moscow Conference (1939), the European Advisory Commission, the North Atlantic Treaty, and the post-war occupation of Germany.
Source: Open Plaques. Geographic data via OpenStreetMap.
