Broadstone War Memorial
Views of War MemorialOur beautiful War Memorial is one of which Broadstone residents should be proud.
At the Ridgeway gate there is now a sign pointing to the War Memorial. Visitors will find it easily and can then enjoy the whole of Broadstone Park.
Just inside the Ridgeway gate is a tablet showing that Miss Kennedy gave the Recreation Ground as a War Memorial to the people of Broadstone. The Cricket ground with its wooden pavilion, The Dell, the children's playground, the Nature Reserve and the football fields on Plainfield all now make up Broadstone Park.
The War Memorial itself, the figure of Memory, was carved by Gilbert Bayes in 1920. A plaque to him can be found in front of the Memorial which matches that on the plinth showing the names of most of those who died from Broadstone in the two World Wars. Two other Memorials also exist in Broadstone, one in St Johns Church and the other in the First School. Details of all the men and women who died in the Wars can be found in a book about them written by Jill Floyd. This book can be seen in Broadstone Library and St Johns Church.
Views of War Memorial 2The trees in front of the Memorial were thinned in 2010 so that glimpses can now be had of Poole Harbour, though the view is mostly still hidden while the trees are in full leaf. Originally the view would have been open with the Purbeck Hills and harbour easily visible across the town of Poole.
The gardens around the rear of the Memorial have been planted with azaleas and skimmias in reds and whites. When in flower these add to the beauty for those using the seats opposite for relaxing or contemplation.
The rhododendrons and other shrubs in a half moon around the memorial have been cut down to a height which allows the light to flood in, and the figure of Memory on her plinth can now be seen as one approaches from the Ridgeway.
A Remembrance Sunday Service is held at the Memorial each year when wreaths are laid to remember those who died for their country.
Jill Floyd