Summary
First World War memorial, 1921, with later additions for the Second World War.
Reasons for Designation
West Wickham War Memorial, unveiled in 1921, is listed at Grade II for the following principal reasons:
* Historic interest: as an eloquent witness to the tragic impact of world events on the local community, and the sacrifices it made in the conflicts of the C20;
* Architectural interest: a simple yet elegant memorial cross.
History
The aftermath of the First World War saw the biggest single wave of public commemoration ever with tens of thousands of memorials erected across the country. Erected by Messrs Farmer and Brindley, on land donated by Mrs McAndrew, West Wickham was one such memorial. The memorial was originally located in the High Street, near Sherwood Avenue. It was unveiled on Sunday 12 June 1921 by Lt-Colonel Vansittart, one time commander of the 8th Battalion Royal West Kent Regiment, and the dedication was by the Rector, the Rev. H Bertie Roberts. The 'Last Post' was sounded by Sergeant Bartlett, Corporal Winch and Corporal Doughty of the 1st Cadet Battalion, RWK Regiment.
Details
First World War memorial, 1921, with later additions for the Second World War.
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