WAR MEMORIALwar memorial · Birmingham
WWI Memorial
d. 1926
Click to remember them. Lest we forget.
This memorial, unveiled on 18th April 1926, serves as a poignant tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice during two major global conflicts. It specifically commemorates the service personnel from the Great War of 1914–1918 and the World War of 1939–1945. The monument is a significant local landmark, designed to ensure that the dedication and courage of the fallen are remembered and honoured by future generations. Its structure incorporates symbolic elements that reflect the era of its creation and the enduring values it seeks to represent, standing as a permanent reminder of collective memory and gratitude.
The memorial originates from an era marked by immense global upheaval and loss. The Great War, or World War I, which spanned from 1914 to 1918, was a conflict of unprecedented scale involving coalitions like the Allies and the Central Powers. It led to millions of deaths and significant developments in military technology. Later, the World War of 1939–1945, also known as World War II, further plunged the world into conflict, surpassing the first in its global reach and human cost, with tens of millions perishing. Memorials such as this one were erected across communities in the aftermath of these wars to acknowledge the collective suffering and honour the individuals who served.
The memorial is distinguished by a tapering column that rises to a capstone, topped with a bronze brazier. At its front, a bronze figure representing Peace is situated on a semi-circular base. Visitors will observe plaques on either side of this base, depicting scenes associated with the First World War. The monument is a heritage site, reflecting its historical importance and the community's dedication to preserving the memory of those it commemorates. It offers a place for quiet reflection and remembrance within its setting.
Inscription
“right: THE GREAT WAR 1914–1918 THE WORLD WAR 1939–1945 left: TO THE FALLEN bronze plaque at the front of the monument: 'WAIT BUT FOR THE YIELD OF ALL OUR TOIL AND – GOD SHALL NOT FORGET.' on a scroll held by the statue: HONOUR JUSTICE FREEDOM on the base”
Background
right: THE GREAT WAR 1914–1918 THE WORLD WAR 1939–1945 left: TO THE FALLEN bronze plaque at the front of the monument: 'WAIT BUT FOR THE YIELD OF ALL OUR TOIL AND – GOD SHALL NOT FORGET.' on a scroll held by the statue: HONOUR JUSTICE FREEDOM on the base — A tapering column surmounted by a capstone with a bronze brazier at the top. A bronze figure of Peace stands on a semi-circular base at the front of the memorial. On either side of the base are plaques depicting scenes from the First World War.
Source: OpenStreetMap. Geographic data via OpenStreetMap.


