New exhibition will explore creation of the Scottish National War Memorial

A new exhibition is to explore the creation of the Scottish National War Memorial ahead of its centenary next summer.

The memorial, situated within Edinburgh Castle, was officially opened by Edward, Prince of Wales – the future King Edward VIII – on July 14 1927.

The exhibition at Scotland’s National War Museum, also located in Edinburgh Castle, will explore the story of the memorial, from the earliest discussions which were held in 1917 through to its opening in 1927 and the role it continues to play up to the present day.

The memorial was conceived during the First World War as a way to create a permanent record of Scotland’s wartime service and express the country’s grief and gratitude for the sacrifices of those who served.

These aims are said to have guided its architect, Sir Robert Lorimer, and the many artists and craftspeople involved in creating the memorial, which features a Hall of Honour and Shrine.

The exhibition, announced as the memorial marks its 99th anniversary, will bring together items including original architectural drawings, archival materials, and artworks to trace its story.

Calum Robertson, senior curator, modern and military history at National Museums Scotland, which manages the museum, said: “The Art of Commemoration will offer visitors a unique opportunity to understand not only how the Scottish National War Memorial came into being, but why it continues to resonate so powerfully today.

“By exploring its conception, design and legacy, we gain a deeper appreciation of the people who created it and a clearer sense of why it still matters.”

The exhibition will examine how the memorial took shape, exploring its conception and design, and will also look at the involvement of female artists.

Highlights will include cast iron sample pieces of angels carryings shields which were designed by Alice Meredith Williams and form part of the decoration of the casket in the memorial.

The casket was a gift from King George V and Queen Mary and contains the names of all Scottish First World War casualties.

The memorial also holds the Rolls of Honour of all Scots who have died in war up to the present, including recent conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan.

The Art of Commemoration opens at the National War Museum in Edinburgh Castle on December 5 this year and will run until January 14 2029.

The Scottish National War Memorial is an independent charity.

The memorial commemorates nearly 135,000 Scottish casualties from the First World War, more than 50,000 from the Second World War and those in conflicts since then, including Malayan Emergency, the Korean War, the Falklands War, the Gulf War and in Northern Ireland.

Susan Flintoff, chief executive of the charity, said: “The board and I are really excited to be working with the National War Museum to bring this exhibition together.

“The memorial holds such a special place in our society. We are keen to ensure it remains just as relevant to the next generation and to always remember those who gave so much for our freedom.”

Those wishing to visit the National War Museum must buy a ticket to the castle, but there is no additional charge for entry to the museum or exhibition.