Summary
First World War memorial, unveiled 1920, with additions for later conflicts.
Reasons for Designation
Washington and Barmston War Memorial, which stands on The 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 sacrifices it has made in the conflicts of the C20 and C21;
* Architectural interest: a tall and richly ornamented cross in the Celtic style;
* Group value: with The Old Hall Smithy (Grade II-listed).
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. 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. One such memorial was raised at Washington as a permanent testament to the sacrifice made by the members of the local community who lost their lives in the First World War.
Details
The memorial stands on the green, at the west end close to The Old Hall Smithy (Grade II). It takes the form of a tall Celtic cross in Heworth Bluestone. The front face of the cross is richly ornamented with carved interlace patterns. The cross shaft rises from the pedestal, square on plan, which stands on a five-stepped base.
End of official list entry
