Stolen Cambridge University plate returned after 115 years

Stolen Cambridge University plate returned after 115 years

In a heartwarming turn of events, a decorative plate that was stolen from a dining hall at the University of Cambridge by a student over a century ago has finally found its way back home. The culprit, Gordon Stewart Wimbush, is believed to have taken the plate while studying at Gonville & Caius College back in 1908. The plate features a picturesque view of Caius Court on its front and the inscription “CAIUS COLL. KITCHENS” on its back.

After his time at Caius, Mr. Wimbush went on to study law and history, and later served in World War One. The stolen plate remained in his possession along with his wife, Ruth, even after they moved to Coventry. It was eventually passed on to Yvonne Browne, a young neighbor and friend of the Wimbush family, in the 1960s.

Now, at the age of 85, Ms. Browne has graciously returned the plate to Caius College, where it rightly belongs. She expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to know the Wimbush family, describing them as remarkable individuals with a deep connection to a bygone era. The plate, once considered as stolen loot, is now safely housed in the college archives.

Caius College, acknowledging the plate’s sentimental journey, described the return as a touching and extraordinary event. The college’s archivist, James Cox, referred to the plate’s story as “fabulous,” highlighting the unique and poignant history behind the missing artifact’s long-awaited return

Read the full article from The BBC here: Read More