Inverness War Memorial, Inverness

The Inverness War Memorial, situated in Cavell Gardens on the right bank of the River Ness, stands as a poignant tribute to the residents of Inverness who served in the two World Wars and subsequent conflicts. This striking memorial, designed by John Hinton Gall, features a red sandstone Celtic cross adorned with intricate knotwork, symbolizing Scotland’s cultural heritage and sacrifice. The cross surmounts a stepped plinth and square base, with the Burgh’s coat of arms prominently carved on the front.

Flanking the cross are yellow sandstone wings angled inward and terminating in red sandstone pillars. These wings bear plaques and engravings commemorating the fallen. The front-facing plaques feature the names of those lost during the First World War, spread across fourteen bronze panels. The reverse of the North wing carries six panels dedicated to Second World War casualties, with a seventh panel displaying a claymore, the conflict years, and the Burgh’s arms.

Inscriptions on the rear base of the cross record both the original dedication and additions made for post-WWII conflicts. In 2012, a black marble tablet was introduced to the South wing, honoring post-1945 casualties, with further names added in subsequent years. As of July 2024, this Roll of Honour includes nine names, symbolizing the ongoing remembrance of those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Facing west across the River Ness, the Inverness War Memorial is not only a testament to historical sacrifice but also a living site of remembrance, continually updated to reflect the contributions of local service members across generations.