A Monument of Remembrance and Honour – Honouring the Heros of the Great War
On 11 December 2018, A D Calvert Stone was proud to play a part in marking 100 years since the end of the First World War. We were commissioned to create a striking new memorial centrepiece for Catterick Camp Central Roundabout, designed as a lasting tribute to the courage and sacrifice of those who served.
A Meaningful Centerpiece
At the heart of the memorial stands a beautifully carved stone locomotive. This powerful symbol represents the long and difficult journey undertaken by those who lived through the Great War, and reminds us of the soldiers who arrived at Catterick by train at the site of the memorial. The memorial was unveiled by Mr David Evans, a former cavalryman of the 13th/18th Royal Hussars (Queen Mary’s Own), from Leyburn, during a deeply moving ceremony.
The date made the occasion even more special, as the unveiling took place on Mr Evans’s 100th birthday. This brought together two centenaries: 100 years since the end of the war, and a century of living history represented by someone who served.
Honouring Service Across Generations
The locomotive is surrounded by three impressive stone statues, each carved from our distinctive Wensleydale sandstone:
- A ‘Tommy’, symbolising soldiers of the British Army
- A member of the Royal Flying Corps, honouring the bravery of early military aviators
- Lord Baden-Powell, founder of Catterick Camp and the Scouting movement
To highlight the legacy of service, each statue was unveiled by a young representative of the present day: an Army cadet, an RAF cadet and a Scout. This thoughtful gesture linked past and future, showing how values of service and dedication continue across generations.
A Lasting Legacy
The unveiling marked more than the completion of a memorial. Every aspect, from the materials used to the figures chosen and the people involved, was carefully considered to reflect remembrance, sacrifice and continuity.
The full story of the memorial and its significance was featured in Richmondshire Today, capturing the strong sense of community behind the project and the pride shared by all involved.
A Memorial for the Future
Today, the WWI Centenary Memorial stands as more than a monument. It is a place for reflection and remembrance, and a reminder of the courage, unity and service that defined a generation. A D Calvert Stone is honoured to have contributed to this important project and hopes it will continue to inspire respect and reflection for many years to come.
Planning a memorial, restoration or bespoke stonework project?
Speak to A.D. Calvert Stone to discuss your ideas – crafted with care, and made to stand the test of time.