World War One Memorial: “Lest We Forget”

A memorial at Lislevane Cemetery was unveiled 31 May 2016, dedicated to those from Barryroe and Courtmacsherry who diead as a result of service in World War One

And the Lord spoke to Moses, saying
‘Afterward you shall be gathered to your people’.
Book of Numbers, Chapter 31.

The Symbolism of the Memorial

The site for the memorial, between benches created from old steps, removed from Barryroe Church, during its renovation, is significant. Most of the men commemorated on the memorial, and indeed most of those who served and were lucky enough to return again to their families, trod on those steps. The benches provide a tangible link with them as they flank these three standing stones.

The idea of standing stones is taken from the Celtic tradition. The stone circles of the Celts were significant in their religious rites and were used to mark the passage of time and the seasons. They are still a feature of our landscape. Standing stones were also used by our ancestors as grave markers.

The standing stones that form the memorial are set in a slight arc, depicting part of a circle and while taking some of the symbolism from the past, they also signify the part of the family and community circle that was broken with the death of each of these men.

The laurel wreath has been used, since the ancient Greeks adopted it, as a sign of honour. On this memorial, laurel is intertwined with shamrock, to emphasise that those who are honoured are Irishmen.