Summary
First World War memorial, with additions for later conflict.
Reasons for Designation
Polperro Parish Memorial Cross, which stands on Downend Point, 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 simple yet dignified and poignant memorial cross in a local stone.
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 England. This was the result of both the huge impact on communities of the loss of three quarters of a million British lives, and also the official policy of not repatriating the dead: therefore the memorials provided the main focus of the grief felt at this great loss.
Details
The memorial stands beside the South West Coast Path, Downend Point, c140m to the south-east of Downend Cottage on The Warren Talland (National Trust). Overlooking the sea, the granite memorial takes the form of a plain Latin cross that stands on a three-stepped base.
End of official list entry
