Summary

War memorial in the form of a tall Portland stone cross on a plinth.

Description

Tall pillar topped by a cross; at the base of the pillar is a pelican piercing its breast, the blood feeding three chicks, a centuries-old symbol of self-sacrifice, specifically the Passion of Christ. This rests on an octagonal plinth which bears the inscription: BY THE LONG ROAD THEY / TROD WITH SO MUCH FAITH AND / WITH SUCH DEVOTED AND SELF / SACRIFICING BRAVERY WE HAVE ARRIVED / AT VICTORY AND TODAY THEY HAVE / THEIR REWARD. The panels at the sides and back are inscribed with the names of the Fallen below the inscription: THESE MEN / OF COULSDON / GAVE THEIR LIVES / IN THE WAR / 1914 - 1919. The memorial rests on a large square base, sections of this and the plinth are decorated with inlaid stones.

This list entry was subject to a Minor Amendment on 07/03/2017

History

The aftermath of the World Wars saw the biggest single wave of public commemoration ever with tens of thousands of memorials erected across the country. One such memorial was raised in Old Coulsdon as a permanent testament to the sacrifices made by the members of the local community. It was unveiled on 14th September 1919. It was moved circa 7m to the north following road widening works to Canon's Hill in 1933. The memorial was cleaned and refurbished by Croydon Council in 2014 and a remembrance service held later in the year by the local community.

Reasons for Listing

Old Coulsdon 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 First World War;

* Design: a well executed and imposing Portland stone cross war memorial.

External Links

• Historic England Listing
• Wikidata Q28771610

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

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