Memorial Indian Soldiers

"This Memorial
is erected to commemorate
the establishment at
Barton on Sea in 1914
of the convalescent depot for
Indian troops who fought in
Europe during the Great War
and was subscribed for by
members of the staff"

When war was declared in August 1914 the Indian army expeditionary force deployed to Europe. By September 1914 two infantry and two cavalry divisions had arrived in France. They played a vital role in helping stem the German advance into Belgium and France. However they suffered great numbers of casualties from the fighting but also struggled to cope with the harsh European autumn and winter conditions. The sick and wounded were brought back to hospitals in Brighton, Bournemouth and Brockenhurst. Hotels were commandeered in Barton and nearby Milton to be used as convalescence homes when the Indian troops were discharged from hospital. The Grand Marine Hotel and Barton Court Hotel near the site of this memorial were commandeered and the over 250 quests were reportedly asked to leave. It was soon realised that these hotels would not be big enough and a hutted camp was built nearby. The depot was run by the Indian Medical Services under the command of two Indian Army doctors, Lt-Col J. Chaytor-White and Lt. Cpol W. Mawson.
The Indians were well treated and respected by the local residents and some Indians, when writing home, referred the British here being more friendly than those in India.
By the spring of 1916, most of the Indian troops had left Europe for the warmer climes of Palestine and Mesopotamia. In 1917 the Barton depot staff raised funds to erect this memorial to commemorate the Convalescence Depot and it was unveiled by Lt. Col Chaytor-White on 10th July 1917, the anniversary of which is still celebrated by Indian Diplomats, Troops and local dignitaries.

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Source

• Text: Sharky Ward
• Photos: Anthony (Sharky) Ward