Summary
War memorial. Erected in c1920. Additional inscriptions added in 1948 to those who died in the Second World War. Engraved stone, commemorating S Birchall who lost his life in Afghanistan, affixed to the memorial in 2012.
Reasons for Designation
Cranleigh War Memorial, erected in c1920, is designated at Grade II for the following principal reasons:
* Historic interest; as an eloquent witness to the tragic impact of world events on the village of Cranleigh, not only of the two World Wars but of subsequent conflicts;
* Architectural interest; as an imposing and elegant monument demonstrating careful handling of limestone and the unique link to the village of Cranleigh through the inclusion of a crane with a wreath, the symbol of Cranleigh;
* Context; located on the main highstreet in a prominent position a short distance from the 'Fountain Memorial', listed at Grade II in 1987.
History
It is understood that the War Memorial was erected in c1920 at a cost of £864 by the local builders Thorpes to commemorate the local men and boys who lost their lives during the First World War. It was designed by Frederick Hodgson of "Waterhouses" to a cost of £74 paid by Sir G Chadwyck-Healey, with the rest of the cost being covered through public subscription. It was unveiled and dedicated on 5th December 1920 by Rev. Philip Cunningham.
Details
The memorial consists of a limestone Cenotaph bounded by low flanking walls and is surrounded by plants and railings and is accessed by metal gates. On the memorial is a wreath with a crane, the symbol for Cranleigh.
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