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Statues and monuments

The Cenotaph

“Yet is their hope full of immortality”

The cenotaph in Halifax was designed by Mr H. Scott Davies of Manchester and was originally located at Belle Vue Park. Standing 25 feet tall and weighing some 130 tons, this impressive memorial was unveiled on the 15th October 1922 at a ceremony attended by thousands of people.

Sir George Fisher-Smith unveiled the memorial, following a procession through the town centre. Two to three hundred wreaths were laid by various organisations.

Discussions took place in 1953 about moving the Cenotaph and at the time it was felt that George Square would be a good location. When Belle Vue mansion was sold in 1987 a new site had to be found.

There were several proposals, including Northgate (outside the Council offices) and the Woolshops entry to the Piece Hall. The most favoured site was Duffy’s Park near to the Parish Church, and the Cenotaph was moved there in August 1988.

A rededication ceremony took place in November 1988. The Right Reverend David Hope who was then Bishop of Wakefield conducted the service. Two inscriptions were added, one to honour those who died in the Korean War and one to pay tribute to those who died in conflicts following the Second World War.

At the service, the Bishop urged people to rededicate themselves to peace and to work to keep peace in the neighbourhood, land and the world.

The Cenotaph annually provides the focal point for Remembrance Sunday.

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