1819
Was once called Southampton Square. The house which formerly occupied the north side was built after a design by Inigo Jones, and eventually called Bedford House: from this place, the amiable Lady Russel dated her letters, it being her town residence till her death in 1723. To forward those improvements, of which Russel, Tavistock, Euston Squares, &c. are the result, this house and its gardens were sold. The whole site is now built over. In June 1816, there was erected here a statue of the late CHARLES JAMES FOX. The work consists simply of a colossal figure in bronze, to a scale of nine feet in height, raised on a granite pedestal. The figure is in a sitting position, and is habited in a consular robe. The right arm is extended, the hand supporting Magna Charta. It is said, that the likeness of Mr. Fox is perfect and striking. The following is the only inscription :—" CHARLES JAMES FOX. Erected MDCCCXVI."
Source: Leigh's New Picture of London. Printed for Samuel Leigh, 18, Strand;
by W. Clowes, Northumberland Court. 1819