Hove War Memorial

Standing proudly in the heart of Hove, the Hove War Memorial is a poignant tribute to the brave souls who sacrificed their lives during the First World War. This memorial, a creation of the renowned architect Sir Edwin Lutyens, is not just a monument but a testament to the community's enduring respect and remembrance for its fallen heroes. It is located on Grand Avenue, a fittingly grand location for such a significant memorial, and it captures the essence of a town deeply affected by the ravages of war.

The Historical Context

Hove's involvement in the First World War was marked by significant contributions and sacrifices. The town was one of the earliest to hold a large-scale recruitment event and later became home to several military hospitals. Over 600 men from Hove lost their lives in the war, with a substantial number serving in the local regiment, the Royal Sussex. The aftermath of the war saw a strong desire within the community to commemorate those who had given their lives, leading to the establishment of a war memorial committee in 1919.

The Commissioning and Design

The journey to the creation of the Hove War Memorial was not straightforward. The committee initially considered functional memorials, such as a meeting hall, but ultimately decided to include a decorative monument. They chose Sir Edwin Lutyens, a leading architect renowned for his war memorial designs, to create a fitting tribute. After two unsuccessful proposals, Lutyens' design for a Tuscan column topped with a statue of Saint George was approved in 1920. The statue, crafted in the studio of Sir George Frampton, depicts Saint George holding a sword by the blade and a shield, symbolizing bravery and sacrifice.

A Closer Look at the Memorial

The Hove War Memorial is an impressive 10-meter tall structure, standing on a three-staged base. The bronze statue of Saint George, adorned in Renaissance-style armor, is a striking figure atop the stone column. The base of the column features several dedicatory inscriptions, though the names of the fallen are recorded on plaques in Hove Library rather than on the memorial itself. The main inscription on the north face reads:

IN EVER GLORIOUS MEMORY OF HOVE CITIZENS WHO GAVE THEIR LIVES FOR THEIR COUNTRY IN THE GREAT WAR AND WORLD WAR.

On the south face, the biblical quote Their name liveth for evermore from Ecclesiasticus chapter 44, verse 14, suggested by Rudyard Kipling, further honors the memory of the fallen. The dates of the First and Second World Wars are inscribed in Roman numerals on each face of the plinth.

The Unveiling Ceremony

The memorial was unveiled on 27 February 1921 by Lord Leconfield, with Lutyens represented by his office manager, as Lutyens was in India at the time. The ceremony was a significant event, attended by thousands of local residents, including 1,000 bereaved relatives. The solemn occasion included the lowering of flags and the sounding of the Last Post, a traditional bugle call in remembrance of the fallen. Wreaths and floral tributes were laid by various local organizations, including the Brighton & Hove Albion Football Club, which had lost four players and a member of staff during the war.

The Memorial's Legacy

Since its unveiling, the Hove War Memorial has stood as a constant reminder of the sacrifices made by the town's citizens. It was designated a Grade II listed building on 2 November 1992, ensuring its preservation as a site of special architectural and historic interest. The memorial's design, though sometimes critiqued for its simplicity, is an elegant and restrained homage to the fallen. It stands in contrast to other more elaborate memorials, yet its dignity and solemnity are undeniable.

A Place of Reflection

Today, the Hove War Memorial continues to be a place of reflection and remembrance. Its location on Grand Avenue, overlooking the sea, provides a serene backdrop for contemplation. The memorial's inscriptions, devoid of individual names, emphasize the collective sacrifice of the community. Each year, on Remembrance Day, the town gathers to honor those who served and sacrificed, ensuring that their legacy lives on in the hearts and minds of future generations.

In conclusion, the Hove War Memorial is more than just a monument; it is a symbol of the town's resilience and respect for its history. Its elegant design by Sir Edwin Lutyens, combined with the poignant statue of Saint George, makes it a significant landmark in Hove. For visitors and residents alike, it serves as a powerful reminder of the cost of war and the enduring spirit of those who fought for their country.