A Gothic cross stands tall. It’s the Woodside War Memorial. This solemn structure remembers the 318 men of Woodside who died in the Great War. The Woodside War Memorial is more than just stone. It is a testament to sacrifice. It’s located in a fenced area near a road junction. The memorial sits on an octagonal plinth. It rests on a four-stepped base. The cross itself is made of Portland stone. It’s about six meters high.
The inscription is clear. It reads “TO THE UNDYING MEMORY OF/ THE 318 MEN OF WOODSIDE/ WHO FELL IN THE GREAT WAR”. This simple yet powerful message speaks volumes. The Woodside War Memorial has stood for over a century. It’s a Grade II listed building. This means it’s a protected part of England’s heritage.
The memorial was unveiled on September 9 1922. The Mayor of Croydon attended. Reverend W P Dott dedicated it. An article in the Croydon Advertiser announced the unveiling. The Woodside War Memorial is more than a historical landmark. It’s a living memory. It connects the past to the present. The memorial serves as a quiet place for reflection. It reminds us of the cost of war. The cost of peace.
The memorial’s location is peaceful now. But imagine the scene in 1922. A large crowd gathered. They mourned their lost loved ones. The ceremony must have been poignant. Full of grief and pride. It must have been a day etched in memory.
The Woodside War Memorial continues to stand. Its Portland stone endures. It serves as a powerful symbol. It is a symbol of remembrance. A tribute to those who gave their lives. The Woodside War Memorial is a silent guardian. It guards the memories of those 318 men. It ensures their sacrifices are not forgotten. Take a moment to reflect on their stories. Let us never forget.