At the top of St Andrew’s Street, opposite the historic Church of St Ia, stands the St Ives War Memorial. It is a solemn tribute to the men and women of St Ives who served and sacrificed during the World Wars and beyond.
This memorial, located in the Memorial Gardens, is a place of reflection and remembrance for both locals and visitors.
Unveiled in 1921, the central feature of the memorial is a robust Celtic wheel cross mounted atop a decorated column, which rises from a three-tiered base.
The front face bears a general commemoration to those who fell in World War I and World War II, while the reverse is inscribed with the words "Lest We Forget."
On the other two opposing faces are bronze plaques listing the names of 93 men and women who died in World War I, arranged alphabetically by surname with initials.
Notably, 74 of these names are also commemorated on the World War I shrine inside the Church of St Ia.
Surrounding the cross is the Memorial Gardens, a tranquil space featuring ornamental planting and additional memorials. Among these is the Burma Star Memorial, dedicated to those who served in the Burma Campaign during World War II.
The gardens provide a peaceful setting for contemplation and are a testament to the community's enduring respect for its fallen heroes.
The St Ives War Memorial is situated in the heart of the town, making it easily accessible for those exploring the area. Its location near the Church of St Ia and the picturesque harbour adds to its significance, offering visitors a chance to connect with the town's rich history and heritage.
