Summary
First World War memorial unveiled on 5 November 1919 with Second World War additions.
Reasons for Designation
Catfield War Memorial, which is situated on a village green adjacent to the entrance to All Saints Churchyard, is listed at Grade II for the following principal reasons:
* Historic interest: as an eloquent witness to the tragic impact of world events on the local community, and the sacrifice it made in the conflicts of the C20;
* Architectural interest: an elegant and dignified Calvary demonstrating a high quality of workmanship;
* Group value: with the Grade I-listed Church of All Saints and the Grade II-listed Church Cottage.
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, both as a result of the huge impact the loss of three quarters of a million British lives had on communities and the official policy of not repatriating the dead, which meant that the memorials provided the main focus of the grief felt at this great loss.
Details
Catfield War Memorial is located on a village green adjacent to the churchyard of All Saints Church. It is prominently situated at the junction of Hall Road and Church Road overlooking fields and by the path leading to the churchyard entrance. The memorial comprises a finely carved stone Calvary on a long, elegant cross shaft. The head of the memorial has a hipped cap. The tapering cross shaft terminates at its lower section in a four-sided upper plinth with dentilated detailing around the cornice. Beneath is a tapering four-sided plinth with recessed inscription panels and floral relief carvings surrounding. This stands atop a three-stepped, octagonal stone base.
End of official list entry
