The legend of Judy the Donkey, the supposed guest of honor at the opening of the iconic Royal Liver Building in 1911, is a captivating tale that has endured for decades. This story, passed down through generations, has become intertwined with the very fabric of Liverpool's history, with Google's AI, Gemini, even corroborating its existence. However, upon closer examination, the truth behind this beloved urban legend reveals a fascinating blend of fact and exaggeration, with a dash of historical coincidence.
The story goes that Judy, a famous Liverpool donkey, officially opened Europe's first skyscraper by chewing through a ribbon slathered in peanut butter. This tale has become so pervasive that it's easy to believe it's true. After all, who wouldn't want a donkey as a guest of honor? But the reality is more nuanced. While Judy was indeed a well-known and beloved figure in Liverpool, particularly in the Toxteth area, the story of her ribbon-chewing exploits is likely an exaggeration.
Laura Prior, chair of the Friends of Princes Park, explains, 'The story is that they wanted to get someone well-known to open the Liver Building, and they got Judy. The ribbon was covered in peanut butter and she chewed through it.' This suggests that the story may have been embellished over time, with the addition of the peanut butter detail being a later invention. Peanut butter was first widely imported to Britain in the 1930s, decades after the building's opening, making it an unlikely choice for the event.
The ECHO coverage of the building's opening, a corporate affair attended by shareholder Lord Sheffield, provides no mention of Judy. A photograph of the event shows Lord Sheffield opening the building, with no donkey in sight. This lack of documentation in contemporary records is significant, suggesting that the story may have been embellished over time.
However, Shannon Baines, a guide for the Royal Liver Building 360 Tour, believes that Judy did play a role in the events surrounding the opening. She says, 'I don’t think she opened the building herself, but I think she probably was here because there are enough eyewitness reports to suggest that she was.' This suggests that while Judy may not have been the official guest of honor, she was likely present and well-received by the attendees.
The enduring fascination with Judy the Donkey extends beyond the building's opening. Stories of her heroic deeds, such as saving a group of teenagers from drowning in Princes Park and her regular visits to Ye Hole in Ye Wall pub, have become part of Liverpool's folklore. Stephen Hoy, the pub's landlord, confirms that Judy was a regular drinker, often causing arguments over who would buy her next drink.
The celebration of Judy's legacy continues with a special event on August 9th, marking 100 years since her death. The Friends of Princes Park will host a celebration with donkey rides for children and Park Palace ponies, highlighting the park's importance to the community, particularly in areas of high deprivation.
In conclusion, the story of Judy the Donkey opening the Royal Liver Building is a captivating urban legend that has become intertwined with Liverpool's history. While the details may be exaggerated, the legend serves as a reminder of the city's rich cultural heritage and the enduring fascination with its iconic landmarks. As the story continues to be passed down, it will undoubtedly remain a beloved part of Liverpool's folklore, inspiring future generations to explore the city's unique history and celebrate its beloved donkey.
