BRINGING THE WAR HOME

After the FIRST WORLD WAR, thousands of war memorials were raised to the memory of local men and women who gave their lives in the war.

These memorials were erected on the initiative of communities to act as a focus for their remembrance. Often they were paid for and maintained by public subscription. Every City, Town and Village has a memorial of some description, often a war memorial.

Using information from the memorial it is possible to;

Make some assessment of the community contribution to the war.

Consider the implications of war and loss for the community.

Set this in a wider context by asking;

WW1 Certificate issued to Children

Where did they die? Many of those named on the memorial will have died in France or Belgium or at home, but others may have died much further afield.

Who did they serve with? Are there local regimental links? Do these regiments still exist? Are there museums or web sites to visit? Where did the regiments serve in the war and what role did they play? Visit the village of Jacksdale in Notts and see how they have researched their memorial and Hayfield Parish in the High Peak are creating a Historical Archive Can you or your School do the same?

Who were these men and women? Were they relatives or neighbours.

Are they buried or commemorated in the same place?

Are any buried locally in churchyards or cemeteries?

What was the average age of those who died?