Remembering sacrifices, the Cambridge Gas Works War Memorial stands as a tribute to fallen employees. This memorial is not just stone. It’s a story of community and loss.
Erected in 1921, the Gas Works War Memorial initially honored eighteen employees. They died during the First World War. After the Second World War, six more names were added. The memorial recognizes their ultimate sacrifice.
Originally, the Cambridge Gas Company erected the memorial. It was a gesture of remembrance from employers and employees. They wished to honor their fallen comrades.
The memorial’s design is an octagonal cupola with scalloped niches beneath a domed roof. This stands on a square plinth. The plinth features carved festoons of roses and leaves. An inscription reads: “In Remembrance of Our Fellow Workers Who Fell in the Great War 1914-1918”.
Later, an additional inscription was added. It reads: “Also In Remembrance of Those Who Fell in the Second World War 1939-1945”. These words and names immortalize the Cambridge Gas Company’s lost.
Initially located south of the gas works near Newmarket Road, it was moved. This relocation occurred around 2000. It was to accommodate the construction of a commercial building and car park. Cambridge City Council ensured its preservation.
The move saw the memorial shifted about 30 meters south. Salvaged gates from the former gasworks now form a metal screen behind it. Granite setts and stone slabs once part of the gasworks’ roadway now pave the court to Newmarket Road.
Among those remembered is Urban Chapman. He was a lamplighter. Also remembered is Stanley Wilkinson. He was only 19. Leonard East passed in WW2. He was just 20 years old.
During the wars, women stepped up. They replaced men as stokers at the gas works. The Cambridge Gas Works played a vital role in Cambridge. It was not spared by the wars.
Grants are available to support the repair and conservation of war memorials. The War Memorials Trust provides support. They focus on memorials in very bad or poor condition.
The Cambridge Gas Works War Memorial is a Grade II listed monument. It’s recognized for its historic interest and architectural design. It serves as a reminder of the impact of war on the local community. It also shows the sacrifices made during the conflicts of the 20th century.
Today, the Cambridge Gas Works War Memorial continues to stand. It’s a testament to those who served. It’s a tribute to those who gave their lives. The Gas Works War Memorial stands as an enduring symbol of remembrance.