WW1 Centenary - remembering our people 2014 - 2019

Published: 24 October 2014

By 2019, 755 crosses filled the Memorial Garden next to the Quincentenary Ceremonial Gates on University Avenue to commemorate University members who died in World War 1. In time for Remembrance Sunday 2020 the garden was redesigned by Billy Bell, Gardener, Estates and Buildings.

Remembering our people - poppy image 755 crosses filled the Memorial Garden next to the Quincentenary Ceremonial Gates on University Avenue by 2019. In this way, The University commemorated members of the University who died in World War 1 (1914-1918) and in whose name the Memorial Chapel was built.

In time for Remembrance Sunday 2020, the garden was redesigned by Billy Bell, Gardener, Estates and Buildings. Billy gives the significance of the colours chosen for the planting:
"Red represents the deaths and the blood spilt during the Great War .
White represents the eventual peace and an end to the death and suffering during the great war.
Pink represents hope for a world without war and conflict." 

The University Chaplain, Rev Dr Carolyn Kelly, reflects on Remembrance Sunday, 8 November 2020.

"This Remembrance Sunday was quite different under the restrictions imposed by COVID-19.  The wider University of Glasgow community was not able to come together in the Memorial Chapel to mark 75 years since the end of the second World War with officers and cadets of the Officers’ Training Corps, the Universities Royal Naval Unit, and the Universities of Glasgow and Strathclyde Air Squadron.

However, the fortitude and courage of those we commemorate who faced life - and death - in the world wars and in conflicts since is an inspiring example to our communities grappling with the painful realities of this pandemic. During recent months, subsequent generations have perhaps gained greater insight into the hardships faced by those who lived through the hostilities and beyond. Perhaps we better appreciate what it meant to lose customary freedoms, to defer celebrations, to grieve loved ones’ distance or untimely death. Thus, we will remember them.”

Opportunity for Erskine offering

Each year the University donates the offering given on Remembrance Sunday to support the work of Erskine Hospital in rebuilding shattered lives, restoring dignity and providing first class care to ex-Service men and women both young and old. To that sum Gift Aid can add at least 22% to the value of donations. 

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First published: 24 October 2014

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