Newcastle and District War Memorial

A Monument to Sacrifice and Remembrance

The Newcastle and District War Memorial stands as one of the city's most significant commemorative structures, occupying a prominent position at the center of Old Eldon Square. Unveiled on 4 July 1923 by Field Marshal Earl Haig, the memorial was erected by the Municipal Borough of Newcastle-upon-Tyne to honor the district's fallen from the First and Second World Wars. The monument's commanding presence on Blackett Street makes it an unmissable landmark within the city's historic Georgian architecture.

Architectural Design and Artistic Vision

The memorial was designed by the architectural partnership of Cackett and Burns, with bronze sculptural elements created by the renowned sculptor Charles Hartwell. The structure comprises a large Portland stone pedestal that rises prominently above the surrounding square. The pedestal's four sides each bear distinct artistic representations, creating a multifaceted narrative of remembrance. The north face displays the inscription "Memory Lingers Here" above a bronze sculptured wreath, while the south side features a lion relief beneath the dates 1914–1918 and 1939–1945. The east face presents a bronze relief of Justice, depicting two grieving women alongside Lady Justice holding her scales, symbolizing the moral weight of sacrifice. The west face showcases a bronze relief of Peace, illustrating a woman with a child and the Angel of Peace, offering a vision of hope amid sorrow.

The Iconic Saint George Sculpture

Crowning the pedestal is a large bronze equestrian statue of Saint George, the patron saint of infantrymen and cavalrymen, depicted in the act of slaying the dragon. This powerful image has become synonymous with the memorial and serves as a potent symbol of courage, valor, and the triumph of good over evil. The equestrian figure commands attention from all approaches to the square, drawing visitors' eyes upward in contemplation.

Historical Significance and Restoration

As a Grade I listed structure, the memorial represents an important example of early twentieth-century commemorative art and architecture. The monument underwent significant restoration work in 1991 and again in 2007, ensuring that its artistic and structural integrity has been preserved for future generations. These interventions have maintained the clarity of the bronze sculptures and the quality of the Portland stone, allowing the memorial to continue serving as a focal point for remembrance.

Setting Within Old Eldon Square

The memorial's location within Old Eldon Square is particularly meaningful. The square itself was developed between 1825 and 1840 as part of Newcastle's grand urban reconstruction, designed by John Dobson. The Georgian terraces surrounding the memorial create an elegant backdrop, with their finely cut ashlar facades and cast-iron balconies providing a dignified setting for this solemn tribute. The square's open green space allows visitors to approach the memorial from multiple directions and to pause for reflection.

A Living Place of Commemoration

Beyond its role as a static monument, the memorial functions as an active site of remembrance. Each year, Newcastle's Remembrance Day ceremonies take place at Old Eldon Square, with military parades and services of remembrance drawing the community together to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice. The memorial thus transcends its role as a historical artifact, remaining a vital gathering place where past and present intersect in collective memory.