Summary
First World War memorial, with later additions for the Second World War.
Reasons for Designation
Little Houghton War Memorial, which stands in the churchyard of the church of St Mary the Virgin, is listed at Grade II for the following principal reasons:
* Historic interest: as an eloquent witness to the tragic impact of world events on this local community, and the sacrifice it has made in the conflicts of the C20;
* Design: a well-executed medieval-style cross;
* Group value: with the Grade II*-listed church of St Mary the Virgin, 46 Bedford Road (Grade II-listed) and numerous listed monuments in the churchyard.
History
Little Houghton War Memorial was dedicated on 12 October 1919. Further inscriptions were added to commemorate those villagers who died serving during the Second World War.
Details
The war memorial stands south of the church in the churchyard of the Grade II*-listed church of St Mary the Virgin. It overlooks Bedford Road and is adjacent to the former school. A number of listed churchyard monuments stand close by. The memorial is a sturdy, 4m high, Weldon Stone cross with a foliate wheel-head. The octagonal cross shaft, with HIS carved to both front and back on the moulded transition of the cross and shaft, rises from a short octagonal plinth. The plinth stands on a shallow, two-stepped, octagonal base.
End of official list entry
