The 100th anniversary of the dedication of Newport’s St Thomas’ Square war memorial was commemorated at 14:00 on Sunday (2nd October).
The Newport and Carisbrooke branch of the Royal British Legion held a small parade and service to mark 100 years since the dedication of the memorial on 16th September 1922. The Memorial was 1st unveiled and dedicated by HRH Princess Beatrice (daughter of Queen Victoria), then the Royal Governor of the Isle of Wight.
The St Thomas’s Square war memorial consists of a 28 ft high Portland stone Celtic cross. It was paid for by public subscription: some 1,500 people contributed a total of £1,562 10s 8d (nearly £100,000 in today’s money).
World War II names were added to the memorial in 2000 following a campaign by Mr Jim Long of the Royal British Legion.
The commemoration also marked the 100th anniversary of the Cowes Sea Cadets and the 60th anniversary of Ryde Sea Cadets.
There was a small parade around St Thomas’ Square, featuring the Vectis Corps of Drums Marching Band, members of the 165 Port & Maritime Royal Logistic Corps (who have the freedom of Newport), Standard Bearers and contingents of Cowes and Ryde Sea Cadets, together with a Highland piper.
The service was conducted by Rev Janet Hallam, with HM Vice Lord-Lieutenant Brigadier Maurice Sheen and Isle of Wight High Sheriff Mrs Kay Marriott in attendance along with other dignitaries.
