Memorial Clock Tower, Coalville

A Testament to Local Sacrifice and Community Resolve

The Memorial Clock Tower in Coalville was conceived as a fitting tribute to the town’s fallen soldiers of the First World War. Initial efforts to commemorate the war dead began shortly after 1919 with a cenotaph on the station wall, but the community soon sought a more substantial memorial. After several years of fundraising amid challenging economic times, the project gained momentum in the early 1920s. The tower was completed by 1925 and unveiled in a solemn ceremony attended by some 10,000 local residents, symbolizing the town’s collective remembrance and respect.

Architectural Features and Symbolism

The tower stands 68 feet tall and measures 13 feet 6 inches square at its base. It is constructed from 54,000 multi-colored Staffordshire bricks, with stonework crafted by local artisans. Four sets of steps lead up to the base from all cardinal directions, flanked by wing walls made of local rubble granite. The names of 354 fallen soldiers are inscribed on Cornish granite tablets at the tower’s base in lead lettering. Each face of the tower features a five-foot diameter electric clock dial with striking gear that marks each hour, making the monument both a practical timepiece and a solemn memorial.

Historical Context and Community Involvement

The memorial’s creation was marked by extensive community involvement, including appeals for the names of local soldiers and fundraising campaigns. Despite economic hardships, local organizations such as the Coalville Cooperative Society stepped in to cover outstanding debts just before the unveiling. The tower replaced an earlier, more modest memorial and has since stood as a focal point for remembrance ceremonies and civic pride, reflecting Coalville’s identity as a former coal mining town with a resilient community spirit.

Setting Within Coalville’s Urban and Cultural Landscape

Situated prominently in Memorial Square at the heart of Coalville, the clock tower is a landmark within a town known for its industrial heritage and ongoing regeneration. Coalville itself lies within the National Forest area, blending industrial history with natural landscapes. Nearby attractions include Snibston Colliery Park, the Century Theatre, and various green spaces, making the clock tower a central point in a town rich with cultural and historical layers.

Preservation and Legacy

Recognized as a Grade II listed structure, the Memorial Clock Tower is protected for its architectural and historic significance. It continues to serve as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by Coalville’s community during the First World War and as a symbol of local heritage. Its enduring presence invites reflection on the past while anchoring the town’s identity in the present.

Visitor Experience and Atmosphere

Visitors to the Memorial Clock Tower can appreciate its imposing Gothic-revival design and the solemnity of the engraved names. The surrounding square offers a peaceful setting for contemplation amid the town’s everyday bustle. The tower’s hourly chimes punctuate the atmosphere, connecting present-day visitors with the memories it preserves. It stands not only as a historical monument but also as a living part of Coalville’s cultural fabric.