When the cemetery chapel was built in 1881 there were few adornments. The non-denominational chapel was designed with elegant simplicity and this extended to the windows. Above the door is situated a rose window, which continues to cast a serene shadow during the sun’s afternoon trajectory. Sadly, this window was damaged by vandals some years ago. The three windows at the east end contain a few panes of subtly coloured glass, and these were also smashed. The four remaining windows are plain.
In 2015 we commemorated the 75th Anniversary of the Battle of Britain along with Swindon Heritage, Paul R. Gentleman Associates and Green Rook. Swindon Remembers was a series of events held across the town, and most especially in Radnor Street Cemetery. We involved primary schools in the area who designed a montage for each of the five windows. We talked to the children about the people buried in the cemetery; the war graves and the two world wars; the GWR and the role of women in the 19th and 20th centuries. We talked about nature in the cemetery, this green oasis in the middle of town, and they encapsulated it all in their designs.
The childrens’ work is still in place eight years later and can be viewed when the chapel is open during our guided cemetery walks.
Join us for the last walk this season on Sunday October 29. Meet at the chapel for 2 pm.
The Second World War by Lethbridge Primary School
Nature of Radnor Street Cemetery by St. Mary’s Primary School
Famous Women by Robert Le Kyng Primary School
The First World War by Goddard Park Primary School
The GWR by King William Street School
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Radnor Street Cemetery 