Leatherhead War Memorials - Dedication of the War Shrine

The Ladies' War Shrine was the precursor of the Town War Memorial in North Street that we are familiar with today. It was also know as the Leatherhead Roll of Honour since in addition to the listing of those who had died it also listed those who were serving in the Armed Forces.

A War Shrine recording the names of the men of Leatherhead who joined the services in the fight for freedom was given to the town in 1916 by a small body of ladies of Leatherhead, who also undertook the care of it and the keeping of its record up to date. These were: Miss Atkins, Miss A. Brown, Mrs. Finké, Miss O. Finké; Miss M Leach, Mrs Still, Miss M. Still, and Miss G. Wanklyn (who acted as secretary of this War Shrine Committee).

The Shrine was dedicated by the Lord Bishop of Winchester, on March 21st., 1917. It was placed by the town clock.

After the unveiling and dedication of the War Memorial on April 3rd 1921, the War Shrine Committee desired that the Shrine should find its permanent home in the Parish Church. This took place on December 4th 1921.

Alun Roberts of the LDLHS adds that the War Shrine was made in oak by Charles Grantham who had a business in North Street, in what is now called Grantham House. Charles Grantham was well known for his skills in design and scenery for the Leatherhead Operatic Society.

principal source: Leatherhead & District Local History Society file LX800

last updated 24 Jan 2005: 9 Feb 2014