War Memorials in Wales
Cover photograph: A detail from the war memorial at Aberystwyth showing Victory holding a laurel wreath. CARING FOR Cadw, Welsh Government Photography for this booklet was provided Plas Carew by the Royal Commission on the Ancient and Unit 5/7 Cefn Coed Historical Monuments of Wales (RCAHMW); Parc Nantgarw all images are © Crown copyright: RCAHMW Cardiff CF15 7QQ unless otherwise specified. Cadw gratefully 01443 336000 acknowledges the help of Professor Chris [email protected] Williams and Phil Parkes (Cardiff University), www.cadw.wales.gov.uk Cyllene Griffiths (Powys County Council), staff at RCAHMW, Historic Scotland, English Heritage Cadw is the Welsh Government’s historic and War Memorials Trust in the preparation of environment service working for an accessible this booklet. and well-protected historic environment for With the exception of the section on war Wales. memorials in Wales, the content is based on Advice on Maintenance of War Memorials War Memorials Trust (English Heritage and War Memorials Trust) 2nd Floor and Short Guide 3: The Repair and Maintenance 42a Buckingham Palace Road of War Memorials (Historic Scotland and War London Memorials Trust). SW1W 0RE These documents can be accessed from the Conservation advice/grants: 020 7233 7356 War Memorials Trust website. [email protected] www.warmemorials.org/a-z www.warmemorials.org
This publication is available in alternative formats. War Memorials Trust is a national charity which For details please contact Cadw at the above works for the conservation and protection of address or telephone 01443 336000. war memorials in the UK.
First published by Cadw 2014 Cover photograph: A detail from the war memorial at Aberystwyth showing Victory holding a laurel wreath. ISBN 978 1 85760 316 3 (paper) ISBN 978 1 85760 317 0 (PDF) Contents photograph: War memorials remain a potent © Crown copyright 2014 focus for commemorating the dead lost in the First World War and subsequent conflicts (By courtesy of Media WG 19995 Wales Ltd). Caring for War Memorials in Wales
Cover photograph: A detail from the war memorial at Contents Aberystwyth showing Victory holding a laurel wreath. Contents photograph: War memorials remain a potent Introduction 3 Grants, Advice and Useful Resources 29 focus for commemorating the dead lost in the First World War and subsequent conflicts (By courtesy of Media Grants 29 War Memorials in Wales 5 Wales Ltd). Advice 29 Setting 5 Useful resources 29 Iconography and imagery 7 Artists and craftsmen 14 Features Materials 17 Adding names to war memorials 19 Conservation Maintenance Plan 19 Moving memorials 22 Recording 19 Protecting against theft of metals 24 Monitoring 21 New war memorials 26 Maintaining 22 Graffiti and vandalism 27 Repairing 24 Statutory Consents 25 Listed building consent 25 Scheduled monument consent 26 Planning permission 26 Ecclesiastical exemption 27 Introduction
ar leaves a lasting impact on the memory Wof a nation, perhaps none more so than the First World War in which so many perished. Although other conflicts and those that fell in them had been commemorated before, it was no coincidence that public memorials were erected so widely after the First World War. This public display was a powerful response to the scale of the losses suffered — losses which touched virtually every community in Wales. Thirty-five thousand Welsh men were killed and only three ‘thankful villages’ in Wales are known to have witnessed the safe return of all their servicemen. Ever since, war memorials have been a poignant focal point in towns and villages throughout the country. Introduction
ar leaves a lasting impact on the memory Recruitment rates in Wales were much Wof a nation, perhaps none more so than higher than during previous conflicts, despite the First World War in which so many perished. anti-war sentiments — linked to Nonconformity Although other conflicts and those that fell in and the labour movement — which increased them had been commemorated before, it was as the fighting continued. Welsh men fought in no coincidence that public memorials were all regiments of the British army, including the erected so widely after the First World War. Welsh Guards, Royal Welch Fusiliers, South This public display was a powerful response to Wales Borderers and Welsh Regiment. In the scale of the losses suffered — losses which Wales, an appeal to patriotism was particularly touched virtually every community in Wales. potent when the war was portrayed as a Thirty-five thousand Welsh men were killed and crusade in support of small nations. This was only three ‘thankful villages’ in Wales are known made all the more powerful by Lloyd George’s to have witnessed the safe return of all their support for the war: he was Minister of servicemen. Ever since, war memorials have Munitions from May 1915, Secretary of State for been a poignant focal point in towns and villages War from July 1916 and Prime Minister from throughout the country. December 1916.
Top: Welsh troops were recruited with an appeal to support independence — ‘Independence calls for our bravest men’ (© Imperial War Museum). Above: A recruiting poster for the Welsh Guards (© Imperial War Museum). Left: J. M. Staniforth drew cartoons for The Western Mail throughout the First World War. This appeal for Welsh troops by Lloyd George highlights his support for the war (By courtesy of Professor Chris Williams). Opposite: The Welsh National War Memorial in Cardiff is a focal point for the commemoration of all the Welsh men and women who have lost their lives in the service of their country.
3 Caring for War Memorials in Wales
Bottom right: War memorials Although most of our public memorials gives them a greater degree of legal protection increased in number after to commemorate the First World War were and makes it essential for them to be cared for the First World War but earlier conflicts had been erected during the 1920s (sometimes much correctly. commemorated. This later), there are examples from earlier conflicts, This Caring for booklet explains the special monument in Carmarthen especially the South African War (1899–1902). interest of war memorials in Wales and suggests commemorates the South Many First World War memorials also became how custodians, local authorities, community African War, 1899–1902. the focus for the commemoration of those and town councils, and local people can draw up Below: This detail from who died in the Second World War and other conservation maintenance plans to make sure the roll of honour on the war memorial in Castle subsequent conflicts. New names and new that this unique legacy is looked after for future Square, Caernarfon, is a structural elements were often added. generations. There is more detailed technical poignant reminder of the Usually paid for by local subscription, war maintenance guidance on the Cadw website multiple losses that families in the companion publication Caring for War could suffer. memorials are often in prominent public places. They can take many forms ranging from the Memorials in Wales — Technical Guidance. Bottom left: First World War memorials were frequently familiar monumental structures to rolls of modified to remember later honour, plaques and even whole buildings. Not conflicts. The two columns only do they hold personal ties but they also flanking the main memorial at Bethesda were added to continue to play an important role in the identity commemorate the Second of our communities. Caring for and maintaining World War. them is a way of honouring their enduring relevance. Nevertheless, there is a delicate balance to be struck between maintaining a memorial — so that its age and history can be appreciated — and any works that could cause damage or accelerate its decay. Some war memorials are considered to be of special architectural or historic interest. They may be exceptional examples of a particular type of work or the work of a notable architect or artist. As a result, they may be listed or scheduled as an ancient monument, which
4 War Memorials in Wales
The setting for the war Setting memorial at Blackwood was designed to create an War memorials are an expression of loss, grief ambitious composition. One of the most unusual imposing and protective and pride shared by entire communities. They is perhaps at Porthmadog, where the hilltop space in which to honour are a focal point for commemoration and their memorial is approached through a processional those lost in two world wars. location often directly reflects that public role. route lined with standing stones that represent Many are sited in prominent public spaces — each year of the two world wars. sometimes in places that have been designed or Some memorials are more remote, but altered especially for them. have a striking visual or symbolic presence; In many cases, the design itself includes a for example, the County War Memorial on physical space which is an important part of the a summit above Mongtomery, the cliff-top memorial. It might be contained within a simple memorial at Borth, or the memorial on Church railed enclosure, or take the form of a more Island in the Menai Strait.
Left: A processional path climbs to the war memorial at Porthmadog, which creates a sense of expectation and arrival at this prominent public space. Right: The path is flanked by standing stones, reminiscent of a prehistoric stone avenue, each of which is carved with a year of the two world wars.
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Public prominence was the intention for the County War Memorial above Montgomery, which surveys a vast tract of the surrounding countryside and can be seen from miles around.
The war memorial at Church Island in the Menai Strait is also prominent, but, set within a churchyard, it has religious as well as civic significance.
Left: Memorials may also be set prominently inside buildings. The Hall of Memory, in Barry’s Memorial Hall, records the names of 1,218 Barrians who lost their lives in two world wars and subsequent conflicts. Right: Towyn Cottage Hospital is a good example of an entire building that was built to commemorate the First World War. Sometimes the choice of location suggests Others are associated with public buildings a sense of history, as well as serving a and institutions, such as a town hall, and in contemporary public role. The memorial at some communities the war memorial is in the Aberystwyth stands proudly above the sea yard of a church or chapel. Smaller memorials within the precincts of the medieval castle take the form of plaques inside churches, (see p. 16) and in Chepstow the memorial is chapels, and town halls, or in the halls and sited in the medieval market place which was a other institutions that were specifically built as traditional focus for public events (see p. 28). war memorials.
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Left: These unusual decorative gates at Pontypool are a memorial to the fallen of the First World War. The designer was probably inspired by early eighteenth-century gates in Pontypool Park, but also celebrated local iron-working skills in their construction. Below left: The remarkable North Wales Heroes War Memorial in Bangor is in the form of a Tudor gatehouse. Inside, the upper floor is lined with wooden panels listing 8,500 who fell in the First World War. Below middle: Soldiers of the Glamorgan Yeomanry are remembered on St Hilary Down, Cowbridge. Below right: In 1999, almost Iconography and imagery 55 years after the Second World War, the community Collectively, war memorials are an important counties and the nation itself. Some regiments at Aberdyfi erected this example of public art and sculpture. They were had their own memorials, such as the Royal memorial to remember built in a wide variety of styles ranging from Welch Fusiliers at Wrexham and the Glamorgan soldiers from a commando simple plaques and crosses to ornate figurative Yeomanry at St Hilary Down, Cowbridge. unit who trained nearby. sculpture. They may be clock towers, gates, Other memorials commemorate particular or even entire buildings and sites, including communities such as schools, trades or recreation grounds and parks. professions. At Capel Baladeulyn, Nantlle, there Our memorials have many historical is a memorial to slate workers and at Llangefni connections. They commemorate the fallen there is a memorial at the former County from individual communities, from regions, School that commemorates former pupils.
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air force and merchant navy. The memorial at Milford Haven also includes the figures of servicemen and there are fine reliefs of a soldier and sailor on the cenotaph in Holyhead. There are frequent appeals to Welsh patriotism, whether indirectly through the use of the Celtic cross, or more deliberately with the use of the Welsh dragon. Often, there are references to earlier traditions, such as the fine memorial at Hanmer in the style of a medieval cross. The memorial at Miskin was also inspired by medieval sculpture, but the figures are those
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Top left: Local slate workers, who lost their lives in the First World War, are remembered on this finely carved slate memorial at Capel Baladeulyn, Nantlle. The graphic images record scenes of both war and work. Top right: School communities also commemorated the fallen. The names of former pupils, killed during the First World War, are recorded on this memorial outside the former County School in Llangefni. Below left: Attitudes to war varied. Here, at Ebbw Vale, a soldier brandishes his tin helmet in triumph. Below right: In contrast, this weary soldier at Abergavenny suggests a very different attitude to war.
Memorials reflect different attitudes to air force and merchant navy. The memorial war shown, for example, by the way in which at Milford Haven also includes the figures of soldiers were depicted as weary or triumphant. servicemen and there are fine reliefs of a soldier A common pose is a soldier with rifle and and sailor on the cenotaph in Holyhead. Opposite: Some regiments also have bayonet held pointing downwards, which There are frequent appeals to Welsh their own memorials. signals a time for prayer and reflection. Some patriotism, whether indirectly through the use These figures from the offer detailed depictions of military figures and of the Celtic cross, or more deliberately with Royal Welch Fusiliers regimental uniform. The Royal Welch Fusiliers the use of the Welsh dragon. Often, there are memorial, Wrexham, memorial in Wrexham depicts an eighteenth- references to earlier traditions, such as the fine depict eighteenth- and twentieth-century soldiers, century soldier behind his twentieth-century memorial at Hanmer in the style of a medieval emphasising the continuity counterpart and the memorial at Builth cross. The memorial at Miskin was also inspired of the regiment which incorporates figures representing the army, navy, by medieval sculpture, but the figures are those is more than 300 years old.
9 Caring for War Memorials in Wales
Left: The sombre figure of of service personnel. At Llantwit Major, the an aviator crowns the war memorial was erected on the restored base memorial at Milford Haven. of a medieval cross in the centre of the village. Right: All of the services There are direct patriotic references on the lost personnel during the clock tower at Rhayader where a Welsh First World War. This fine relief on the memorial at dragon is shown defeating a German eagle. the busy port of Holyhead Some memorials incorporate intensely local shows a sailor. and personal references such as at Milford Haven where there is a First World War memorial erected by steam trawler owners
Left: The Celtic cross is a familiar form for war memorials and appeals both to our Welsh and Christian heritage. This example is located in the churchyard of St Ellyw’s Church, Llanelli. Right: Dragons are a more obvious appeal to Welsh patriotism. This fierce looking beast crowns the war memorial at Haverfordwest.
There is no mistaking the patriotic message in this scene from the war memorial at Rhayader where a Welsh dragon is shown defeating a German eagle.
10 War Memorials in Wales
of service personnel. At Llantwit Major, the and the people of Ostend who were resident Top and bottom left: memorial was erected on the restored base in the town during the war. The soldier on War memorials took other traditional forms based of a medieval cross in the centre of the village. the memorial to the South African War in on medieval architecture. There are direct patriotic references on the Swansea is said to be modelled on Sgt O. S. The memorial at Miskin is clock tower at Rhayader where a Welsh Bird, who was the physical education master at designed in the style of a dragon is shown defeating a German eagle. the grammar school. The memorial at Magor medieval cross, but figures Some memorials incorporate intensely local incorporates a bronze medallion depicting of service personnel are included instead of religious and personal references such as at Milford D. A. Thomas, first Viscount Rhondda and images. Haven where there is a First World War Minister of Food Control from 1917 until his Right: War memorials memorial erected by steam trawler owners death in 1918. often included very local references. The standing soldier on Swansea’s memorial to the South African War (1899–1902) is said to be modelled on Sgt O. S. Bird, who was a teacher at Swansea Grammar School.
11 Caring for War Memorials in Wales
Left: Fate personified as a woman is a recurring image on war memorials. Here, at Pontmorlais, Merthyr Tydfil, Fate is flanked by the figures of a miner and a mother carrying her child. Their downward gestures towards the inscription commemorating those who died in the First World War have an air of resignation. Right: The finely observed figure of a forlorn mother and child at the Pontmorlais memorial.
Left: Victory, too, is often seen personified as a strong Memorials also contain a rich language of woman. This winged figure symbolism that was perhaps more familiar of Victory stands on the prow of a boat looking out to people when they were first erected. For to sea at Penarth. example, the memorial at Pontmorlais, Merthyr Middle: At Llandaff, the Tydfil, is a depiction of Fate and in Penarth place itself is personified as a winged Victory stands on a ship’s prow this commanding woman overlooking the sea from Alexandra Park. The dressed in Celtic costume. remarkable memorial in Aberystwyth also depicts Right: This striking figure Victory and Humanity emerging triumphant from of a woman brandishing a the chaos of war (see p. 16). The memorial weapon over the defeated at Llandaff includes a Celtic female figure enemy crowns the war memorial at Mountain Ash. personifying Llandaff itself. Peace is personified The figures were sculpted in the memorial at Pontrhydfendigaid, whilst the by J. Harvard Thomas memorial at Mountain Ash depicts a female figure who was responsible for with the defeated enemy beneath her feet. The the statue of Boudicca (Boadicea) in City Hall, memorial in Talbot Park, Port Talbot, has a figure Cardiff. of Victory and relief panels representing War,
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Left: The Cenotaph in Whitehall, London, designed by Edwin Lutyens, became the model for many war memorials throughout Wales, such as this fine example in Victoria, Newport. The design draws on the classical tradition and avoids any specific religious references. Right: Another classically inspired design is the obelisk. This example at Flint was erected to commemorate the South African War (1899–1902).
Memorials also contain a rich language of Peace and Remembrance. symbolism that was perhaps more familiar Many memorials, wherever their location and to people when they were first erected. For whatever their stylistic references, used Christian example, the memorial at Pontmorlais, Merthyr iconography. Others attempted to avoid specific Tydfil, is a depiction of Fate and in Penarth religious references, drawing instead on the a winged Victory stands on a ship’s prow classical tradition that inspired the Cenotaph overlooking the sea from Alexandra Park. The in Whitehall, London: some Welsh memorials remarkable memorial in Aberystwyth also depicts were modelled on it quite closely, including Victory and Humanity emerging triumphant from Victoria, Newport. Good examples of other the chaos of war (see p. 16). The memorial memorials that were classically inspired are at Llandaff includes a Celtic female figure Caernarfon (Castle Square) — where classicism personifying Llandaff itself. Peace is personified is combined with a dragon — and Holyhead in the memorial at Pontrhydfendigaid, whilst the (see p. 18). The obelisk was also a widely used memorial at Mountain Ash depicts a female figure form and there is a good example at Flint as with the defeated enemy beneath her feet. The well as many smaller ones elsewhere. The memorial in Talbot Park, Port Talbot, has a figure County War Memorial, Montgomery, takes the of Victory and relief panels representing War, form of a giant Doric column (see p. 6).
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memorial was the work of Aston Webb, a well- known London architect. William Goscombe John — one of Wales’s best-known sculptors — produced several fine figures that were used in a number of memorials across Wales. More unusually, the Aberystwyth town memorial
Above: Sculptors, architects and artists, often of national repute, were commissioned to design war memorials. The war memorial at Welshpool was designed by well-known London architect Aston Webb who used images of local saints Artists and craftsmen reminiscent of a medieval churchyard cross. Many people were involved in the making of the memorial in Chirk; Liverpool Cathedral Right: The noted sculptor war memorials. Often, several craft skills were architect Giles Gilbert Scott designed the Eric Gill designed this required including stone masonry and engraving, memorials at Hawarden and Hanmer, and simple and elegant metalworking and casting. Although local Whitehall Cenotaph architect Edwin Lutyens memorial at Chirk. The designers and makers were often used, designed the Welch Regiment memorial at hunched soldier clutching his rifle and bayonet architects and artists with a national reputation Maindy Barracks in Cardiff. The local architect, creates a sense of both were also commissioned. Coates Carter, based in Cardiff, designed the pathos and dignity. Sculptor and designer Eric Gill designed memorial at Penarth, whilst the Welshpool
14 War Memorials in Wales
memorial was the work of Aston Webb, a well- was designed by Mario Rutelli of Rome (see Left: Designed by Edwin known London architect. William Goscombe p. 16), but many more craftsmen were drawn Lutyens in the style of his John — one of Wales’s best-known sculptors from much closer to home. Although some war Cenotaph in Whitehall, London, the war memorial — produced several fine figures that were used memorials are well documented, others are not, at Maindy Barracks in in a number of memorials across Wales. More and there were builders and craftsmen whose Cardiff was erected to unusually, the Aberystwyth town memorial names have not been recorded. remember the soldiers of the 1st and 2nd battalions of the Welch Regiment lost in the First World War. Memorials to other conflicts have since been added. Below: William Goscombe John was a notable Cardiff- born sculptor who studied at Cardiff Castle under William Burges. His striking and realistic figures are both poignant and dignified. They feature at a number of war memorials in Wales, including Llanelli (left) and Lampeter (right).
the memorial in Chirk; Liverpool Cathedral architect Giles Gilbert Scott designed the memorials at Hawarden and Hanmer, and Whitehall Cenotaph architect Edwin Lutyens designed the Welch Regiment memorial at Maindy Barracks in Cardiff. The local architect, Coates Carter, based in Cardiff, designed the memorial at Penarth, whilst the Welshpool
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pg 13 War Memorials in Wales
Left: Although most war Materials memorials in Wales are Most war memorials in Wales are made of made of stone, they frequently include different stone. More than one type of stone was often types and finishes. For used in composite memorials, such as where example, the memorial at a cross was raised on steps. The fine stone Machynlleth is made from needed for a high-quality finish was frequently granite with polished pink Aberdeen marble columns imported — for example, granite from Cornwall topped by polished slate. or Scotland, Portland limestone from Dorset Below: At New Tredegar, and Doulting limestone from Somerset. Other white marble figures crown stone may have been sourced closer to hand in a red granite plinth. Part Wales — red sandstone in the borders, Pennant of the plinth has been stone in the south-east, and slate in the north, polished and part has been for example. rock cut to create different textures. Variety in the type and source of stone might also be accompanied by a variety in finish. The main sculptural elements of a memorial were often finely finished or polished, but other parts might be tooled or rock-dressed to give a rustic appearance. Many memorials also included metal elements, particularly bronze, copper and cast iron. Inscriptions were often engraved directly into the stone. Sometimes, however, they were gilded or picked out in lead. Alternatively, incised, cast or embossed panels were fixed to the stone. Separate panels were often added to the original memorial to commemorate later conflicts and could introduce yet another material. Examples of the use of other materials can be found throughout Wales. Composite stone and concrete have been recorded, and, at Froncysyllte, the memorial to the South African War was made from faience tiles. Timber, stained glass and brass were sometimes used for memorials inside buildings alongside paper rolls of honour and even tapestries too. There are at least 3,000 war memorials known in Wales. They are a physical record of those who died for their country and an eloquent testimony to the impact of war. They are also a fine collection of public art and sculpture which provides an insight into contemporary attitudes to conflict and a glimpse of the people from our past who helped shape Opposite: The town war our present. War memorials continue to play an memorial on the seafront at Aberystwyth was important role in the identity of our towns and designed by the noted villages. Understanding how to care for them is Italian sculptor, Mario essential for their long-term survival. Rutelli.
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Your plan should consist of: • A written and photographic record of the war memorial. • An annual programme of monitoring and maintenance, including details of any work. • A record of any repairs. Recording The record of names on a war memorial is an important source of information. As time passes names can become obscured, defaced or illegible through wear and — as relatives pass away — there is a danger that the record could be lost forever. Keeping a written and photographic record of inscriptions on war memorials is an essential element of caring for the monument, but maintaining the inscriptions is important too. As a priority, the custodian of a war memorial should establish its historic or architectural significance, particularly if it is listed. Researching the history of the memorial can uncover important information such as who paid for it, its materials and designer, and how the names included on the memorial were selected, all of which can help guide your conservation maintenance plan. War Memorials Conservation Maintenance Plan
f you are a custodian of a war memorial, it Your plan should consist of: Iis a good idea to draw up a conservation • A written and photographic record maintenance plan to help you care for your war of the war memorial. memorial effectively. If you have a war memorial • An annual programme of monitoring and in your community that you want to care for, maintenance, including details of any work. then you need to find out who the owner is • A record of any repairs. and gain their permission before you begin any maintenance work. There is more information Recording about ownership on the War Memorials Trust Opposite: A conservation website. The record of names on a war memorial is an maintenance plan for your war memorial will You should check whether the memorial is important source of information. help ensure its long- As time passes names can become listed or scheduled as an ancient monument in term survival. Following case you need to seek consent for your work obscured, defaced or illegible through wear and accidental damage, the (see p. 25 for more information). — as relatives pass away — there is a danger Holyhead Cenotaph has It is also a good idea to check whether the that the record could be lost forever. Keeping a recently been repaired and written and photographic record of inscriptions renovated. Once volunteers war memorial is covered by insurance and make from the local community suitable arrangements if it is not. War Memorials on war memorials is an essential element of had researched its history, Trust has guidance about insurance for war caring for the monument, but maintaining the conservation-accredited memorials on its website. inscriptions is important too. architects and specialist conservators restored the Your plan can be a simple checklist that As a priority, the custodian of a war memorial should establish its historic or memorial. Holyhead Town reminds you to inspect your memorial regularly Council has now insured and carry out basic maintenance. It will also help architectural significance, particularly if it is the memorial and placed you to identify any repair needs at an early stage. listed. Researching the history of the memorial it on their asset register. You can find more detailed guidance about can uncover important information such as This, together with the who paid for it, its materials and designer, and adoption of a conservation what you can do yourself and when you should maintenance plan, means how the names included on the memorial consult a conservation specialist on the Cadw that the cenotaph will be website in Caring for War Memorials in Wales — were selected, all of which can help guide your properly cared for on a Technical Guidance. conservation maintenance plan. War Memorials long-term basis.
Adding names to war memorials Sometimes you may wish to add any objection. War Memorials Trust done at the same time. You will further names or inscriptions to help sheet addition of names to war need to obtain permission from the existing war memorials. If the memorials provides further advice owner or custodian. monument is listed or scheduled and information. The addition of other plaques you may need listed building consent If you do plan to add names or or inscriptions, such as those to or scheduled monument consent inscriptions, it is a good idea to commemorate restoration works for this work. However, as long consult the community about your or anniversaries, is not generally as there has been research into plans to make sure that everyone supported by War Memorials Trust. any additions or amendments and is in agreement. It is also an Such additions can detract from there is sufficient space and the opportunity to identify any other the original purpose of the war same style and method of lettering names that need to be added or memorial and create a cluttered is used, then there is unlikely to be altered so that the work can be appearance.
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Left: A good photographic Trust has guidance on its website about • Send a copy to the appropriate Historic record is important. This researching the history of a war memorial. Environment Record (HER). These are view shows the Hawarden memorial in context, Making an accurate written and photographic maintained by the regional archaeological including the panels which record of all features including condition, trusts. have been added to location, construction details, decorative • Send a copy to your local authority War commemorate the Second features and inscriptions will help inform Memorials Officer. Details are on the War World War. conservation or restoration decisions. It is Memorials Trust website. Right: This close up view helpful to keep old photographs, original • You should also ensure that there is a record of the head of the cross newspaper cuttings and documents relating to of the memorial and its condition on the War records the condition of the stonework and the religious previous maintenance and repair work. This Memorials Online website. imagery. record of the memorial and its features is vital in Further information may be available in case of damage or theft. the local Historic Environment Record or Once you have compiled a record for your the register of war memorials curated by conservation maintenance plan, you should: the Imperial War Museums’ War Memorials • Deposit a copy with the National Monuments Archive. Record of Wales (NMRW), which is held by (See Grants, Advice and Useful Resources the Royal Commission on the Ancient and on p. 29 for contact details and website Historical Monuments of Wales (RCAHMW). addresses).
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Monitoring The war memorial should be inspected regularly, • Does the paving need cleaning? at least once a year. You can use the War • Does the paving need repairing? Memorials Trust’s condition survey to help you • Does the paving or surrounding area need assess the condition of your war memorial. weeding? Alternatively, you may wish to employ a suitable Surroundings contractor both to assess the condition and advise on a specific programme of works. • Is the site generally well maintained? These are the sorts of issues you need to • Are there any damaged or dangerous consider: structures or trees in the vicinity? Condition of the structure Security • Is there any physical or structural damage? • Has the war memorial been vandalised? • Is the material badly weathered? • Have any features been damaged or stolen? • Are any features missing? • Is there a need to maintain or repair gates, • Does the memorial need cleaning? fences and boundary walls? • Do the joints need re-pointing? • Is the site secure? Regular monitoring of your war memorial should Inscriptions and names If you identify any problems, you should include not only the arrange for a conservator or suitable contractor condition of the monument • Are they legible? itself, but also its setting, • Are any letters missing? to carry out any necessary repairs before the security and access. This • Are the letters badly weathered? condition of the war memorial deteriorates memorial at Cilfynydd, • Are names/plaques missing or damaged? further. This will prove cost effective in the commemorating the army, long term as it may reduce the need for costly navy and flying corps, is Access remedial works in the future. in a public open space which allows easy access • Is the memorial accessible to the public? and a bench for rest and • Is disabled access provided? reflection.
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War memorials are often made from a number of Maintaining different materials and of all these materials shows the complexity of include boundary walls Any maintenance works should be performed or railings and public by a properly trained and appropriately war memorials and maintenance works must spaces, all of which must monitored person. Depending on the materials take this into consideration. be properly maintained. that the memorial is made of, you may need The following list provides some general It is good practice to to engage a conservation professional to advice on maintenance treatments. For more keep a full record of any maintenance work as do the work for you. A full record of any detailed guidance, consult Caring for War part of your conservation maintenance work should be kept as part of Memorials in Wales — Technical Guidance on maintenance plan. your conservation maintenance plan. the Cadw website, which explains when you Most war memorials are made of stone with should consult a conservation specialist. If you bronze, brass, iron and wood being common are in any doubt about the right course of additions. Inscriptions may be either incised, in action, you can contact War Memorials Trust relief or attached to the surface and may be for guidance or seek the help of a conservation gilded, painted or filled with lead. The presence contractor.
Moving memorials War memorials were often carefully to an inappropriate location, for options such as improving access located in places chosen by the local example, from inside to outside to the memorial with appropriate community, perhaps for symbolic a building. War Memorials Trust landscaping or visiting arrangements. reasons or historical associations. recommends that a memorial should If the memorial is listed or fixed to Therefore, you should not normally only be moved if it is at risk or is a listed building then listed building move or relocate them unless completely inaccessible — such consent is required for moving it. there is a very good reason to do as when a building is disused and See War Memorials Trust’s help so. Damage can be caused during there are no plans for its re-use. sheet relocation of war memorials for dismantling or if they are moved In most cases there are other further guidance.
22 Conservation Maintenance Plan
Stone Iron • Do wash with water and soft bristle brushes, • Do inspect joints and areas of flaking but no more than once a year. paintwork. The protective paint coating • Don’t use copper, brass, bronze or ferrous should be maintained on the iron as the build (iron or steel) brushes. up of water can be detrimental because it • Don’t use chemicals, bleach or detergents. encourages corrosion. • Don’t use abrasive methods (this includes • Don’t use paints to match the original colour sandblasting or re-facing stonework). as re-painting should only be performed by a • Don’t use high-pressure water jets. qualified professional. • Don’t use masonry paints. Masonry joints Bronze • Do check if joints are open and arrange to • Do use wooden scrapers to remove bird have re-pointing carried out in lime mortar droppings, but remember to wet the by a suitably experienced professional. A joint droppings first so that you don’t breathe in covered in moss can suggest the joint is open, any particles. which has allowed vegetation to grow. • Do clean with low-pressure mains water and a • Don’t re-point without professional help. The non-ionic detergent using a lint-free cloth or wrong choice of mortar can lead to damage. natural bristle brush, but no more than once a year. Arrange for a new wax coating after Organic growths cleaning if necessary. • Do monitor the extent of organic growth. If • Do arrange for a bronze specialist/ you find unsightly algal slimes which cover conservator to inspect the bronze and apply inscriptions, contact a qualified professional to microcrystalline wax every two to three years. clean the surface. • Don’t use chemical products (especially • Do remove/control excessive vegetation. acid- and alkali-based products and ammonia However, most lichens and mosses can be left solutions) or household cleaning products. on memorials provided they do not obscure • Don’t use metal brushes. inscriptions and carved details. • Don’t use paints. • Don’t apply chemical/biocide products on the • Don’t use abrasive methods. surface. • Don’t plant trees too near the memorial. • Don’t place flower pots directly on the base of the memorial.
Left: You should monitor organic growths on your war memorial but do employ a specialist contractor if you need to clean the surface. Right: Bronze statues — like this at Llandaff — and plaques can be cleaned carefully with water and a non-ionic detergent but a specialist conservator should inspect the bronze every two to three years and apply microcrystalline wax.
23 Caring for War Memorials in Wales
Repairing A conservation maintenance plan should help You can find more detailed advice on the you to identify key problems. However, you Cadw website in Caring for War Memorials should seek professional specialist advice before in Wales —Technical Guidance and your proceeding with repairs. Relevant expertise local planning authority Conservation must be employed to correctly assess the Officer can advise you on conservation memorial’s condition and establish appropriate works (in most cases your local planning conservation solutions. Repairs must be authority will be your local authority). War tailored to each war memorial, as inappropriate Memorials Trust can suggest sources to treatments will not only prove ineffective but help you find a conservator or a suitable may also cause irreversible damage. You should specialist contractor to carry out repair keep a full record of all repairs as part of your work, or you can consult the conservation conservation maintenance plan. organisations listed on p. 30.
You should ensure that repair work is done by properly trained and supervised people. You may need a number of specialist contractors to look after different materials. For example, the war memorial at Ruthin is built principally of concrete, but also includes iron railings, a sandstone boundary wall and granite tablets, all of which require different maintenance techniques.
Protecting against theft of metals Metal components of war memorials be carefully sited to avoid visual In cases where there is persistent can be targeted by thieves — intrusion and clutter that could spoil theft, replacement with an alternative particularly lead, copper and bronze. the appearance of the memorial. material may be appropriate, so long You can protect against metal theft in War Memorials Trust has further as it is physically and aesthetically a number of ways, including physical guidance on this, including the In compatible with the original fixings or barrier alarms. Forensic Memoriam 2014 project which memorial. Synthetic replicas such marking is increasingly being applied provides SmartWater free to as resin plaques are not normally to metal elements of war memorials custodians of war memorials to help considered suitable replacements to try and deter thieves. This works prevent theft (see p. 30 for further on historic memorials. For further most effectively when used with details). information, Cadw endorses English other security measures and when Where theft does occur, ideally Heritage’s publication Theft of Metal its use is clearly advertised with you should replace the stolen item from Church Buildings. warning signs, which should not be like-for-like and put in place anti-theft on the memorial itself. Signs should measures, such as additional fixings.
24 Statutory Consents
he only legislation specific to war memorials Listed building consent Tis the War Memorials (Local Authorities Powers) Act 1923 and subsequent amendments. If you propose to alter the character of a listed This empowers local authorities to use funds war memorial you must obtain listed building to maintain, repair and protect war memorials, consent (LBC). This applies regardless of the category of listing (grade I, grade II* or grade including adding and correcting inscriptions; II). It includes all repair and conservation works however, it imposes no obligation on the local that will materially affect the character of the authority to do so. memorial, which may include stone replacement Some war memorials are listed buildings and cleaning. and a few are scheduled ancient monuments. If the memorial is listed you should always In such cases, you will need consent for check with the local planning authority whether You may need listed alterations, some repairs, cleaning or reinstating LBC is required before undertaking any work. architectural details or for the addition of fixed building consent for You can find out if a memorial is listed by cleaning and repairs to your security measures such as CCTV or lighting. It contacting the local planning authority or Cadw. memorial if it is listed or is wise to speak to your local planning authority If a memorial is not listed in its own right but is is part of a listed building. Conservation Officer at an early stage to discuss fixed to a listed building or within its boundary, Criccieth’s memorial hall, for example, is listed and whether statutory consents may be required it may be considered part of the listed building contains a hall of memory and to come to a broad agreement about what and will require LBC. The planning authority will commemorating the dead would be most suitable. advise you whether work requires consent. of two world wars.
25 Caring for War Memorials in Wales
Occasionally, a war memorial is scheduled or located within the boundary of a scheduled ancient monument — such as the memorial at Caerleon, which lies within the scheduled area of the Roman fortress. If so, you will need written consent from Cadw for certain types of cleaning and repairs before you begin work.
All applications for LBC should be made to the local planning authority who will decide Planning permission them. When a local authority is the applicant, You may need planning permission for consent will normally be determined by the alterations or additions to a war memorial, Welsh Government. for example, new boundary railings. Additional restrictions may be in place in conservation areas for some works, such as dismantling a Scheduled memorial. The planning authority will advise you whether permission is required for works and monument what is likely to be granted consent. consent If a memorial is scheduled either in its own right New war memorials or because it lies within an area of scheduled land, you will need written consent from If you are thinking about erecting a new Cadw for most works — including repairs and war memorial, you should be clear about alterations — before you begin work. This is why you are commissioning it and what called scheduled monument consent (SMC). or who needs to be commemorated. You Cadw advises that the work should normally be will also need to think about the design the minimum necessary for the preservation of and funding of the memorial and its future the memorial. If your war memorial is scheduled maintenance. War Memorials Trust has then you should speak to Cadw at an early a help sheet on new war memorials on its stage to discuss proposals for cleaning, repair or website, but as a conservation charity it is alterations. unable to fund new memorials.
26 Statutory Consents
You should check carefully Ecclesiastical whether ecclesiastical exemption applies to a exemption memorial associated with a church or chapel. Some Many war memorials may not be listed in freestanding war memorials, their own right but will be located within like this churchyard cross in listed church or chapel buildings, attached Pembroke Dock, are listed in their own right so you to the building or freestanding within would need to apply to your their grounds. If such a war memorial is local planning authority physically attached to a listed church or for listed building consent. chapel building, or sited within its boundary, If in doubt, talk to your local planning authority then the war memorial will probably be Conservation Officer. covered by the listing. However, buildings that are primarily in use as places of worship for certain denominations do not, by law, require LBC. This is because they have equivalent internal procedures to determine the suitability of proposed alterations. This is called ecclesiastical exemption and exempts the denomination from obtaining LBC for its own works. However, proposals by anyone else, other than the denomination, may require LBC from the local planning authority. Any proposed alteration to a freestanding memorial that is listed independently of the church or chapel building will probably require LBC from the local planning authority. If in doubt, you should check with both authorities.
Graffiti and vandalism Sadly, even war memorials are carefully the removal method so that number, which will be needed for not immune to graffiti and other you do not make the damage worse. any insurance claim. Professional vandalism. Graffiti typically appears It is a good idea to have to hand advice will be needed to decide on in the form of spray paint (aerosols), details of conservation specialists who the most appropriate action such marker pen, carvings or scratches. know how to treat the materials your as cleaning, stone repairs and so It is usually a priority to remove war memorial is made of so that you forth. Check with the local planning graffiti as quickly as possible because can get advice and remedial work authority whether the monument it has a very negative impact on can be started as soon as possible. is listed and to obtain advice and the appearance of war memorials. Normally, all work to repair damage necessary consents for remedial Prompt removal will help discourage caused by graffiti should be done by a work. A suitably skilled contractor copycat attacks and it is also sensible specialist. will be required and cleaning trials from a technical perspective as paints, If a war memorial has been may be necessary before any work is glues and inks become increasingly vandalised, it is important to record undertaken. difficult to remove as they dry. the incident with photographs and Despite the need for a quick a written description. Notify the response, you do need to consider police and obtain a crime reference
27 WarCaring memorials, for War likeMemorials this at in Wales Chepstow, are prominent features in our towns and villages. Grants and advice are available to help us all look after them for future generations. Grants, Advice and Useful Resources
28 Grants, Advice and Useful Resources Grants Cadw is the Welsh Government’s the centenary of the First World The records are available online historic environment service and War, including memorials, buildings at www.archwilio.org.uk and via the is responsible for advising Welsh and sites. www.hlf.org.uk and Android app Archwilio, which can be ministers on the scheduling of Understanding the First World War downloaded from Google Play. ancient monuments and the listing of — Heritage Lottery Fund War Memorials Trust offers buildings. Cadw provides funding to www.hlf.org.uk/HowToApply/ practical advice and guidance about conserving and maintaining your war support the conservation and repair whatwefund/FirstWorldWar/Pages/ memorial and provides a range of of war memorials in Wales. FirstWorldWar.aspx online help sheets and frequently www.cadw.wales.gov.uk asked questions. War Memorials Trust is a charity Advice www.warmemorials.org that works for the protection and The Imperial War Museums are Conservation Officers in local conservation of war memorials in also compiling a comprehensive planning authorities offer advice the UK. It provides free conservation record of all war memorials in the UK. relating to listed buildings and broader advice and information on a range The War Memorials Archive was conservation matters, including war of war memorial issues as well formerly known as the UK National memorials. Local authority War Inventory of War Memorials. as administering grant schemes, Memorials Officers are the best place www.iwm.org.uk/warmemorials which can support the repair and to start if you want to find out more For further advice and to find a conservation of war memorials. The about caring for your war memorial Small Grants Scheme is open to suitable contractor, you can consult the and may be able to help with Conservation Register, Conservation everyone to apply, but please note conservation advice. You should place Accreditation Register for Engineers, that War Memorials Trust cannot a record of your war memorial with Register of Architects Accredited in fund works after they have started your War Memorials Officer. Details Building Conservation and the Royal or been completed. Please visit the of War Memorials Officers are on the Institution of Chartered Surveyors. grants section of the War Memorials War Memorials Trust website. For contact details, see website Trust website for further information www.warmemorials.org/wmo-wales addresses below. on these schemes, how to apply, The Royal Commission on the other sources of funding and advice Ancient and Historical Monuments Useful resources for applicants. of Wales maintains the National Publications www.warmemorials.org/grants Monuments Record of Wales Memorials Grant Scheme is run (NMRW) — the national collection G. Archer, The Glorious Dead by the Department for Culture, of information about the historic (Kirstead 2009). environment of Wales, which includes Media and Sport and can return, as a J. Corke, War Memorials in Britain records of war memorials. You can (Oxford 2005). grant, the VAT incurred in memorial search for records on their online English Heritage and War Memorials projects, including new memorials. database Coflein www.coflein.gov.uk. Trust, Advice on Maintenance of War Please see the website for details You should place the record of your Memorials (London 2006). on eligibility and how to apply. The memorial with the NMRW. English Heritage and War Memorials scheme is currently confirmed to The four Welsh archaeological Trust, War Memorial Theft: Prevention and run until 2015 so you should check trusts hold the Historic Environment Solutions (London 2009). that the scheme is still active before Records (HERs), which aim to English Heritage, Theft of Metal from applying. record all of the known historic and Church Buildings (London 2011); www.memorialgrant.org.uk archaeological features in Wales. available online at:
29 English Heritage, Conservation, Repair Institute of Historic Building War Memorials Archive and Management of War Memorials Conservation is the principal Imperial War Museums (London 2014). professional body for building Lambeth Road A. Gaffney, Aftermath: Remembering the conservation practitioners and historic London Great War in Wales (Cardiff 1998). environment specialists. SE1 6HZ Historic Scotland and War Memorials www.ihbc.org.uk 020 7207 9863/9851 [email protected] Trust, Short Guide 3: The Repair and The Building Conservation Directory www.iwm.org.uk/warmemorials Maintenance of War Memorials, is a useful resource for finding (Edinburgh 2013); available online at: conservation products and services. The Royal Commission on the Ancient
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