Did you know that this memorial marks a debt of gratitude? It is dedicated to the West Ham Tramway employees. It stands as the Tramway Workers War Memorial. This Tramway Workers War Memorial commemorates those who died in the European War of 1914-1919.
The Tramway Workers War Memorial is located outside the former West Ham Tramway Offices. The address is 90 Greengate Street Plaistow. Today the location is in London E13.
The West Ham Corporation tramways headquarters were built in 1906. The tram and bus depot was located immediately north of this building. Now Gad Close and Routemaster Close house it.
The Tramway Workers War Memorial was unveiled on 6th November 1921. Local clergy and dignitaries attended the dedication ceremony.
The central obelisk displays the names of the fallen. Four roofed columns surround it creating a temple-like structure. The Tramway Workers War Memorial stands on an ornate corniced plinth. It also has a two-stepped base. A carved wreath adorns the front face. Scrollwork cornicing decorates each corner.
The inscription reads: “Sacred to the memory of West Ham Tramway Employees who fell in the European War 1914-1919.” 53 names are listed on the Tramway Workers War Memorial. The designer was J. F. Richards. A. Elfes and Sons were the sculptors.
One poignant account describes a visit to the Tramway Workers War Memorial on 11/11/16. Only three people were present at 11:00 a.m. They gathered to remember the dead. They also reflected on the futility of violence and hate. Two older men shared stories of great-uncles and grandfathers. Their names were etched on the Tramway Workers War Memorial. In the past hundreds would attend the memorial on this day.
These men had driven busloads of East London volunteers to the coast. They took them to the front from across the channel. Then they signed up themselves.
The Tramway Workers War Memorial serves as a reminder. It honors those who served. It is a place for reflection. It is a symbol of sacrifice. The Grade II listed Tramway Workers War Memorial is a protected monument. Historic England maintains it. The War Memorials Trust supports its repair and conservation.