The monument commemorates the gallantry and courage of John Nathaniel Westaway, a passenger on the 'Normandy' steamship that sank in the Channel in March 1870. Westaway was drowned after giving up his seat on the lifeboat to Miss Albina Falle, also giving her his coat as protection against the elements. It is one of two sculptures commemorating the loss of the 'Normandy'. Jersey's commemorative monuments, which include public statues and memorials, include some of the island's finest works of public art. They are of great historical interest, often bearing witness to notable events and the achievements of leading figures from the past, as well as to the Victorian cult of civic honour. The monument (intended to be a fountain) comprises an octagonal granite pedestal, alternately panelled and set flush, placed within a circular stone basin and surmounted by a second and smaller basin carved from a single piece of granite.