The Cenotaph, Middlesbrough facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Middlesbrough Cenotaph |
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| United Kingdom | |
Middlesbrough Cenotaph
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| For the British Empire (later Commonwealth) dead of both World Wars, and the British military in later wars | |
| Unveiled | 11 November 1922 |
| Location | 54°33′53.52″N 1°14′26.40″W / 54.5648667°N 1.2406667°W |
The Middlesbrough Cenotaph is a special war memorial in Middlesbrough, North Yorkshire, England. It stands proudly near the entrance to Albert Park, right in front of the Dorman Museum. This monument helps us remember the brave local people who lost their lives in the First and Second World Wars, and other conflicts.
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What is the Middlesbrough Cenotaph?
A cenotaph is a monument that honors people whose remains are elsewhere. The Middlesbrough Cenotaph is a place where the community can remember and pay respect to those who served and died in wars. It helps keep their memory alive for future generations.
Why Was the Cenotaph Built?
The idea for the cenotaph came from Sir Arthur Dorman. He donated the land for it. Sir Arthur wanted a memorial similar to the famous Cenotaph in Whitehall, London. It was designed by Brierley and Rutherford from York.
How Was It Made?
The cenotaph was built in 1922 by skilled stonemasons called Messrs Coxhead of Middlesbrough. It cost more than £17,000, which was a lot of money back then! The monument is made from shiny grey Aberdeen granite. It stands very tall, over 10 meters high.
When Was It Unveiled?
The Middlesbrough Cenotaph was officially revealed on 11 November 1922. This date is important because it's Armistice Day, marking the end of the First World War. The deputy mayor of Middlesbrough, J.G. Pallister, unveiled it. It was first dedicated to over 3,000 local men, including those from the Yorkshire Regiment, who died in the First World War.
A Tribute to All Wars
After the Second World War, the cenotaph was rededicated. This meant it would now also honor those who died in that war and other conflicts since then. On its north and south sides, you can read the words: "THE GLORIOUS DEAD 1914–1919, 1939–1945." These dates mark the periods of the two World Wars.
Keeping the Memorial Special
In 2008, the Cenotaph and the area around it were made even better. This restoration project cost £275,000. The work included cleaning the monument and fixing its stone joints. The area around it was also made safer for people to walk, and new lighting was added. This helps keep the memorial looking its best for everyone who visits.
 | Precious Adams |
 | Lauren Anderson |
 | Janet Collins |
