Summary
First World War memorial, 1921, with later additions for the Second World War.
Reasons for Designation
Gainford War Memorial, which stands in the churchyard of the church of St Mary, 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: a richly ornamented cross in the early-medieval style;
* Group value: with the church of St Mary (Grade I) and other Grade II-listed structures including 27 and 28 Low Green.
History
Gainford War Memorial was unveiled on 19 March 1921 by Sir Arthur Pease (High Sheriff of Durham) and dedicated by the vicar, Reverend HC Watson. The address was given by Lord Gainford. The memorial commemorates 25 local servicemen who died in the First World War and cost £150 raised by public subscription. The memorial was designed by the Reverend Watson’s daughter, inspired by an early-medieval cross from Gainford, and carved by Mr Percival Charge of Messrs Charge Brothers. Following the Second World War the names of a further six men who died in that conflict were added and the memorial was re-dedicated on 17 November 1953.
Details
The York stone memorial stands in the churchyard of the church of St Mary (Grade I), in close proximity to a number of other listed structures including 27 and 28 Low Green (Grade II). It takes the form of a tall cross in the early medieval style. The front face of the cross head and the upper part of the cross shaft are decorated with complex interlace patterns carved in low relief.
End of official list entry
