Summary
First World War memorial, 1920, with later additions for the Second World War.
Reasons for Designation
Holt War Memorial, which stands on Ham Green, 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;
* Architectural interest: an imposing obelisk in the Classical style;
* Group value: with the Bollards With Chains Enclosing Ham Green On All Sides (Grade II) and other Grade II-listed buildings around Ham Green.
History
In April 1919 the Parish Council resolved to raise funds for a war memorial at Holt. Later that year the decision was reached that the memorial would be located on Ham Green. It was unveiled on 4 July 1920 by Lord Methuin, commemorating 32 local servicemen who died during the First World War. Following the Second World War the details of eight men who died in that conflict were added. The railings enclosing the memorial, made by local blacksmith Mr Harry Harding and paid for by public subscription, were added in 1922.
Details
The granite memorial stands within a railed enclosure on Ham Green, to the side of the B3107 between Melksham and Bradford on Avon. Standing c3m tall, it comprises a broad obelisk, square on plan, rising from a tall corniced plinth. The plinth’s two-stage base stands on two steps.
End of official list entry
