One of the highights of summer so far for me was making and unveiling a commemorative sculpture of Blackie the warhorse. I’ve made several memorial sculptures related to war like the Highclere Castle airman and WWII soldier in Workington. This was the first time making one for a military animal though! I love history so this commission was the perfect excuse to dig into some local history…
ABOUT BLACKIE THE WARHORSE
So who is Blackie the Warhorse, and why a memorial sculpture?
Blackie was one of the animal heroes of WWI. As detailed in a BBC article, he served in the 275th Brigade Royal Field Artillery A Battery 55th West Lancashire Division during World War One. His master (Lt Leonard Comer Wall) died in action whilst riding Blackie. The horse was badly injured too. However, unlike his master, Blackie survived his injuries.
Typically, injured warhorses often stayed in Europe – if they survived. In fact, the only ones likely to return were those owned by living officers. However, the Lieutenant had made provision for Blackie in his will. This meant Blackie could return to the UK.
BRIGHTER DAYS FOR BLACKIE
In 1937 Blackie retired to the RSPCA’s Lodge Farm (later known as Liverpool Horses’ Rest). He lived out the rest of his days peacefully – a happy end for the equine hero. In 1942 Blackie died and – as the Lieutenant requested – was buried with his master’s medals. Although known locally as a bit of a landmark, over the years the grave fell into disrepair, until…
A MAKEOVER FOR BLACKIE’S GRAVE
Miller Homes purchased the land next to Blackie’s grave for their Wilbury Park development. They were keen to protect the memory of Blackie and incorporated a memorial into the site plans. Their design included a pathway to the grave, surrounded by wildflowers and native shrubs.
It also included a new memorial sculpture for Blackie – and that’s where I came in!
CREATING THE SCULPTURE
I was honoured to be asked to do this because it’s such an interesting and emotional story! Of course, any profound story comes with the challenge of telling it well. And capturing the proud and steadfast demeanour of a horse that witnessed such horrors, and was brought back to his birthplace to live the rest of his life in peace was definitely a challenge! Setting the scene within a window in the wood was my way of giving the viewer the feeling of witnessing a frozen moment in time, capturing Blackie in his later years, with the purple poppies signifying his tumultuous past. I used redwood for the sculpture, and – unusually for me – used colour in several parts – including for Blackie.
THE UNVEILING
I don’t always get to see my sculptures unveiled, but I was fortunate to be at the unveiling of this one. Several local dignitaries were there along with veterans, representatives from Miller homes, local historians and members of the community. You can actually watch the unveiling HERE, and hopefully get a feel for how poignant it was – and what a fitting tribute to the horse.
TESTIMONIALS
It was great that Miller homes wanted to include this tribute in their development. As their MD says:
“The grave has strong cultural and historic significance in representing the key role animals played, and the sacrifices they made, in the First World War. It was incredibly important, therefore, that we restore and preserve this heritage site and allow it to be enjoyed by the Halewood community for many years to come.”
I agree! And it isn’t just for those who live there – both sculpture and grave are open to the public. You can find the sculpture using this link: https://what3words.com/ponies.reefs.hounded
And what does my client think of the finished piece?
“The sculpture is even more amazing in person and is a true testament to a legend and a truly fitting tribute.“
“This remarkable piece of art not only commemorates Blackie’s service but also symbolises the rich history and contributions of all animals in war. The exceptional craftsmanship of the sculptor has brought this vision to life, creating a lasting tribute that enhances the cultural heritage of Wilbury Park. We are deeply proud of this achievement and grateful to everyone who made it possible.”
What do you think? Do you think it’s a fitting memorial to this local legend? Drop a comment and let me know!
Don’t forget, if you would like to commission a memorial for your community’s local hero, just fill out the form at www.treecarving.co.uk/contact and I’ll be in touch!