Together, let's ensure that the sacrifices made by our armed forces are never forgotten.
Where community spirit thrives, and remembrance takes centre stage. For over 30 years, Highbridge War Memorial Trust & Southwell House and Gardens have stood as a beacon of dedication, run by the very people they serve – the residents of Highbridge.
They are a charity powered by passionate volunteers, committed to honouring the brave souls who have served and sacrificed in times of war. The War Memorial Trust stands as a testament to remembrance, preserving the memory of veterans and fallen heroes through the ages.
Their story begins with a profound gesture of remembrance, as these hallowed grounds were purchased by the people of Highbridge in honour of their own, those who made the ultimate sacrifice during the Second World War.
Nestled within the Memorial Garden lies a poignant tribute to the brave souls who served on the railways during the First World War. The Railwaymen’s Plaque (grade 2 listed), originally erected at the Somerset & Dorset Locomotive Works in Walrow, stands as a testament to their courage and commitment. Moved from its original location to the Willowbrook Estate and later to Southwell Gardens, it serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those in service.
The memorial garden is not merely a place of remembrance; it's also a testament to extraordinary individuals like Major Frank Foley, a local hero whose courageous actions saved the lives of over 10,000 Jews during the Holocaust. Born and raised in Highbridge, Major Foley's legacy is immortalised with a plaque in the very heart of the gardens, a reminder of the indomitable spirit of our community.
The seeds of the Garden of Remembrance were sown in 1948, when the land, once part of Southwell House, was acquired through public subscription. Though it took over a decade to gather the necessary funds, the vision was finally realised in the early 1960s, culminating in the creation of Southwell Gardens and the Garden of Remembrance. A central sunken garden, crafted in the Arts and Crafts style, serves as the focal point of this sacred space, surrounded by verdant fields and quiet contemplation.
In 2000, another chapter was added to the history with the installation of a bronze plaque in memory of Major Francis Edward Foley, stolen but replaced in granite in 2012 during a poignant ceremony. His story, intertwined with the fabric of the community, serves as a beacon of hope and humanity amidst the darkness of war.
Whether you share their passion for honouring veterans or simply want to be part of a community that cares, the team welcomes you to join them. Together, let's ensure that the sacrifices made by our armed forces are never forgotten. Get in touch today and become a part of something truly meaningful.
