1919: 'A noble memorial'

Jake Kenny Reporter from Community News

Hi neighbours,

Did you know...

One of Christchurch’s most important monuments was inspired by a letter to The Press.

A correspondent known only as L.M.I., but later identified as Mrs Wyn Irwin​, had a letter published on July 24, 1919, in which she wondered if some arches that were put up for peace celebrations could become permanent, and “why Christchurch, by nature adapted to arched bridges, as the river flows through the centre of the city, and its banks are considered the main beauty spots of the town, has been so remiss in not adopting this mode of architecture.”

L.M.I. referred to a book that described a Bridge of Remembrance in Japan, and even suggested the Christchurch bridge be given that name.

“If that idea were adopted here, and the site chosen, the Cashel street bridge, how appropriate it would be. I choose this site in preference to all others, on account of its being the bridge all our soldiers have passed over, therefore the most historic bridge in Christchurch.”

Soon, The Press editorialised. And so it came to pass. The bridge was unveiled in 1924.