Summary
First World War memorial, 1920.
Reasons for Designation
The war memorial outside the Church of All Saints, Four Oaks, which stands on Belwell Lane, 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 First World War;
* Architectural interest: a tall memorial cross by E F Reynolds;
* Group value: with All Saints’ Church (Grade II*).
History
The memorial cross outside the Church of All Saints (Grade II*) on Belwell Lane was designed by E F Reynolds, who also designed the church (1908). Paid for by public subscription, at a cost of £753, it was unveiled by Brigadier General Sir John Barnsley VD DL on 25 September 1920. The memorial commemorates 36 local servicemen who died in the First World War. In 2006, the memorial was restored with £4,000 raised by the congregation and a grant of £2,000 from Birmingham City Council.
Details
The tall sandstone memorial cross stands in front of the church porch, by the roadside. It comprises a Latin cross on top of an octagonal shaft, that stands on a tall plinth and single-stepped base. The four sides of the plinth carry bronze plaques with the inscriptions and commemorated names. The plaque to the front (south) face carried the principal dedicatory inscription and is ornamented with a laurel wreath.
End of official list entry
