The Brooklyn War Memorial Statue stands tall on Sugarloaf Hill, a silent sentinel overlooking the bustling city of Wellington. It was built in 1923 to honour the sacrifices made by the men of Brooklyn who served in World War I. The memorial is a powerful symbol of remembrance, a place where locals can come to reflect on the past and pay their respects to those who gave their lives for their country.
The memorial is a striking sight. It’s a towering structure comprised of a concrete base topped by an eight-foot-tall white marble statue. The statue depicts a New Zealand soldier holding a hat, gazing back towards the harbour heads. It was commissioned by the Brooklyn Returned Services Association and funded by the local community. The names of the 48 Brooklyn soldiers who died in the war are inscribed on the base of the statue.
The inscription on the pedestal reads: “The motherland called and they went and these men died for their country.” The words are a testament to the bravery and sacrifice of those who served, and they invite visitors to contemplate the cost of war.
The memorial is a reminder of the enduring impact that war has on individuals and communities. It was a labour of love, a testament to the resilience and spirit of the community, and it serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by those who fought in World War I.