Bridgwater War Memorial facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Bridgwater War Memorial |
|
|---|---|
| England | |
The Angel of Bridgwater which serves as Bridgwater War Memorial in King Square with the offices of Sedgemoor District Council in the background
|
|
| For World War I, World War II, Korean War, Falklands Conflict and Afghan conflict | |
| Established | 1924 |
| Unveiled | 1924 |
| Location | 51°07′47″N 3°00′14″W / 51.1296°N 3.0039°W near |
| Designed by | John Angel |
| Commemorated |
|
The Bridgwater War Memorial is a special monument in Bridgwater, Somerset, England. It's located in King Square, where Bridgwater Castle used to be. This memorial was designed by a sculptor named John Angel in the 1920s. It's a very important historical site, recognized as a Grade II* listed building. The main part of the memorial is a green statue that represents "Civilization." It shows a female figure holding a globe and a book, symbolizing knowledge and peace.
Contents
What is the Bridgwater War Memorial?
The main part of the Bridgwater War Memorial is a beautiful sculpture called the Angel of Bridgwater. It was created by John Angel. The sculpture shows a female figure sitting on a base, holding the world in her hand. This world is surrounded by symbols of business and peace. Under her foot, you can see "demons of war," showing peace overcoming conflict.
Details of the Sculpture
Behind the main figure, there are carvings that show important ideas like "Labour," "Home," "Life," and "Education." The figure also has a book of laws on her lap and is surrounded by children. The bronze statue was made by a company called W Morris Art Bronze Foundry.
John Angel worked as an assistant to a famous sculptor named Sir George Frampton. Frampton's style can be seen in Angel's work. Angel also showed parts of the Bridgwater War Memorial at The Royal Academy in 1922.
Remembering the Fallen
On the third step of the memorial, these words are carved: "IN HONOUR OF THE MEN OF BRIDGWATER WHO GAVE THEIR LIVES IN THE GREAT WAR 1914-1918".
The memorial was officially revealed on September 25, 1924. General the Earl of Cavan, who was a top army leader, unveiled it. It was first made to remember those who died in World War I. Later, more names were added for people who died in World War II, the Korean War, the Falklands Conflict, and the Afghan conflict.
People have described the memorial as "An exceptionally fine and moving memorial." It is a key part of the beautiful Georgian square it stands in.
Recent Improvements
In 2009, the memorial received some money from the War Memorials Trust. This money was used to replace old bronze plaques and add a new one. The new plaques look exactly like the original ones.
