Memorial Benches – A Place For Reflection
Memorial benches are a place for reflection and a quiet place to remember those lost but never forgotten.
A brief history of memorial benches
Memorial benches date back more than a hundred years to post-first world war times. When families would place a bench in a public place to remember a loved one who did not return.
The attraction of this practice has grown and evolved to a place where the general community choose to memorialise their loved ones in this same way.
It is not only loved ones who we remember by sitting quietly in reflection on benches around the world, we also place benches in memory of an event which may have traumatised a community.
Creating a space for reflection, remembrance and peace
After the initial grief and shock of losing a loved one, thoughts naturally turn to “how can we best remember and honour our person”. How can we ensure that they are never forgotten? What is the best way to sit in quietly with our own thoughts? To help us move gently on our grief journey.
Installing memorial benches in public places allows loved ones and the community to be honoured every day of the year. It's not just on their remembrance day. They are a beautiful lasting reminder and celebration of their life.
Often memorial benches are placed in a location which was special to the lost loved one, such as overlooking a favourite spot. However, a memorial bench in a private garden surrounded by shared memories will be just as healing.
