Remember those who served. The Cambridge War Memorial stands as a testament to their sacrifice. This monument honors the brave men of Cambridgeshire and the Isle of Ely. It also recognizes those from the Borough and University of Cambridge. They served in the Great War 1914-1919 and the World War 1939-1945.
The Cambridge War Memorial wasn’t always in its current location. Originally, there were debates about the memorial’s location and type. Proposals included a clock tower or cottages for injured soldiers. A site on Parker’s Piece was rejected. It was used as a parade ground during the war.
Finally, Hills Road near the railway station was chosen. The Cambridge War Memorial has been moved twice since its erection in 1922. Once further towards Hills Road from Station Road in 1952. Again in 2012 from the middle of Hills Road to its present site. It is now outside the Botanic Garden entrance.
The Cambridge War Memorial features a bronze statue of a soldier. Canadian sculptor Robert Tait McKenzie designed it. The statue represents Victory. It is of a young British soldier striding towards the city center. He glances back towards the railway station. He remembers those who will not return.
McKenzie called his statue the “Home-comer”. The soldier is in full kit. He is on his triumphal return after the War. Discipline is relaxed. He is striding along bare-headed helmet in hand. A German helmet is a trophy slung on his back. It is partly concealed by a laurel wreath. It carelessly flung over the rifle barrel. In his hand he holds a rose. Another rose thrown to him has fallen to the ground. His head is turned to the side. His expression is alert happy and slightly quizzical. His lips are slightly parted. It is as if he has recognised an old friend in the welcoming crowd. He is about to call upon him.
The face was modeled on Kenneth Hamilton. He was an English student at Christ’s College. The head was reworked many times before the final casting. The statue is slightly larger than life-size at seven feet tall. The plinth is constructed of brick faced with limestone. It has rounded ends like a sarcophagus.
The Cambridge War Memorial was unveiled on July 3 1922. The Duke of York later George VI performed the ceremony. Thousands attended. The bronze was not ready. A gilded plaster cast took its place. The bronze was erected later. The memorial was dedicated the following year on July 3 1923.
Today the Cambridge War Memorial stands as a reminder of sacrifice. It honors those who served. It reminds us of the cost of freedom. Take a moment to reflect on their service and dedication.