Summary
First World War memorial.
Description
First World War memorial.
MATERIAL: Cornish granite.
DESCRIPTION: a wheel cross on a tall shaft with an octagonal plinth and square base. The cross is decorated with Celtic-knotwork carvings. On the front of the shaft (south face) is the following dedication: 'TO THE GLORY OF GOD/ AND IN MEMORY. OF/ THOSE OF THIS PARISH/ WHO FELL IN THE/ GREAT WAR/ 1914-1918'. The names of the fallen servicemen can be found on the faces of the plinth.
History
The memorial was erected to commemorate the men of the parish who died during the First World War. The dedication ceremony took place in November 1921 during which it was unveiled by the Marquis of Bath. The memorial stands within the churchyard of St Mary Magdalene (Grade I).
Reasons for Listing
The Great Elm War Memorial 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 sacrifices it made in the conflicts of the C20;
* Architectural interest: it displays good-quality craftsmanship with a well-carved wheel-cross with an intricate Celtic-knot motif;
* Group value: it forms part of a strong group with other listed structures including the Church of St Mary Magdalene (Grade I), a chest tomb (Grade II) and Church Cottage (Grade II).
External Links
External links are from the relevant listing authority and, where applicable, Wikidata. Wikidata IDs may be related buildings as well as this specific building. If you want to add or update a link, you will need to do so by editing the Wikidata entry.
Recommended Books
Historic Environment Law: Planning, Listed Buildings, Monuments, Conservation Areas and Objects by Harwood, Richard (2012) Paperback
Building Small Projects (New Best of Fine Woodworking)
Oxfordshire (Pevsner Architectural Guides: Buildings of England)
Georgian Style and Design for Contemporary Living
Devon (Pevsner Architectural Guides: Buildings of England)
Maintaining and Repairing Old Houses: A Guide to Conservation, Sustainability and Economy