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Epsom

The Grade II Epsom war memorial cross is a rough hewn white Cornish granite wheel cross on a three stepped hexagonal base. The front face of the cross is carved with a central crucifix and laurel wreath as well as Celtic knot work to the head of the cross. On the reverse is a carved sword to the shaft of the memorial. The cross head is again decorated with Celtic knot detail and there is a central crown. The steps of the memorial have dedications in lead lettering.

The memorial sits just outside of the cemetery within an area delineated by granite walls with iron gates and railings. On the wall there is the roll of honour which is carried out in lead lettering. The gates within the walls have bronze dedicatory plaques to the 18th, 19th, 20th and 21st battalions of the Royal Fusiliers.

In 2013 a grant offer was made of £20,550 through the Grants for War Memorials scheme for works to the memorial with a total project cost of £27,403. The works consisted the lifting and relaying of the paving as this had become loose and uneven in places. The memorial cross itself was in good condition with only light cleaning required. The main works undertaken were to re-point the wall and re-paint the metal work.

To inform the work to re-paint the iron railings a paint analysis was undertaken to establish the original decoration scheme. The current finish was white with black highlights. The analysis showed that the original finish had been black. As such the re-painting was undertaken in black and the bronze plaques had the later paint finish removed and a protective micro-crystalline wax applied. This case highlights the importance of research and sampling to establish the original design intention for ironwork surrounding memorials. Based on the findings of the analysis it was possible in this case to reinstate the original appearance of the memorial and its surrounding area.

The memorial was unveiled in 1921 and was designed by architect Mr W J Parker and the Borough surveyor Mr E R Capon.

Further information

War Memorials Trust reference WM5125
UK National Inventory of War Memorials: 23327

War Memorials Online: 100792

If you have a concern about this memorial please contact the Trust on conservation@warmemorials.org

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