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WWI VC Memorial Receives Grade II Listing
A memorial to WWI Victoria Cross recipient Private James Miller is given Grade II listed status.
English
United Kingdom
MilitaryUkHistoryMemorialHeroismWorld War 1
Historic EnglandDepartment For CultureMedia And SportKing's Own Royal Lancaster Regiment
Private James MillerSir Chris BryantSarah Charlesworth
- What is the overall symbolic importance of the memorial and its listing?
- The listing of the memorial serves as a poignant reminder of WWI and Miller's extraordinary bravery. The inscription on the memorial reads, "Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends."
- Describe the memorial and the process by which it achieved protected status.
- The memorial, a two-meter tall Celtic cross made of Cornish granite, was erected in 1917 thanks to public donations. Its Grade II listing ensures its preservation and recognition of Miller's sacrifice.
- What historical significance led to the memorial receiving Grade II listed status?
- Private James Miller's memorial in Withnell, Lancashire, has been given Grade II listed status for its historical significance. The memorial commemorates Miller's bravery during the Battle of the Somme, where he delivered a crucial message despite being fatally wounded.
- Detail Private James Miller's actions that led to him receiving the Victoria Cross.
- Miller, a paper mill worker from Lancashire, was awarded the Victoria Cross posthumously for his actions in delivering an important message under heavy fire. His heroic death saved the lives of his comrades.
- Which organizations played a role in securing the Grade II listing for the memorial?
- Historic England, which advises the government on listed buildings, advocated for the Grade II listing. Heritage Minister Sir Chris Bryant also praised Miller's bravery and the significance of the memorial.