Men of Barking War Memorial Wall

Men of Barking War Memorial Wall

The Men of Barking War Memorial Wall, located in Barking Park, serves as a poignant tribute to the residents of Barking who made the ultimate sacrifice during the First and Second World Wars. Designed by the esteemed local architect C.J. Dawson, the memorial was unveiled on 25 March 1922. Dawson, who also contributed to the design of Barking Park and its boating lake, was the consultant architect to Barking Borough Council between 1899 and 1923. (britishlistedbuildings.co.uk)

Constructed from Portland stone, the memorial features a three-stepped flagstone pavement leading up to a central pylon, flanked by curved walls. The pylon stands approximately 3 meters tall and is adorned with a laurel wreath carved in relief, with the dates 1914 and 1918 inscribed and gilded on either side. A plaque beneath the wreath reads:

"IN GRATITUDE TO ALL WHO SERVED, AND IN HONOUR OF THE MEN OF BARKING WHO FELL IN THE GREAT WAR."

The flanking walls, also standing at 3 meters, bear carved and gilded inscriptions and terminate in terminal piers. Originally, the names of the fallen were incised into stone tablets; however, due to weathering, these became illegible over time. In response, a new plaque was added in 1992 to honor the lost names. Further restoration included the addition of 14 bronze plaques with enamelled lettering, unveiled at a re-dedication service on 5 August 2001. This restoration expanded the memorial to include an additional 385 names, ensuring that more individuals were commemorated. (britishlistedbuildings.co.uk)

The memorial's inscription reads:

"1914 (wreath) 1918 / IN GRATITUDE TO ALL WHO SERVED, AND IN HONOUR OF THE PEOPLE OF THIS BOROUGH WHO FELL IN THE GREAT WARS. THEY GAVE THEMSELVES FOR FREEDOM'S CAUSE THEIR MEMORY NEVER DIES 1939-1945"

This inscription honors the residents of Barking who served and died during both World Wars. (iwm.org.uk)

The memorial is situated in a prominent location at the junction of two paths, to the southwest of Rippleside Cemetery Chapel, within Rippleside Cemetery in Barking. It stands as a testament to the community's resilience and the sacrifices made by its members during the tumultuous periods of the World Wars. (britishlistedbuildings.co.uk)

The Men of Barking War Memorial Wall not only commemorates the fallen but also serves as a focal point for reflection and remembrance for the local community and visitors alike. Its enduring presence in Barking Park continues to honor the legacy of those who gave their lives for their country.