The Memorial
“A Promise Honoured” is a poignant war memorial located in Castle Yard, adjacent to the Great Hall in Winchester, Hampshire. Crafted by master stone carver Simon Smith, this commemorative stone bench was unveiled on the 23rd June 2014, by HRH The Duke of Gloucester. The memorial serves as a tribute to the millions of troops who passed through Winchester during the First World War, honouring a promise made by the Mayor of Winchester in 1919 to commemorate the American soldiers billeted on the hills around the city.
The bench is carved from Portland stone, measuring approximately 1.8m long, 0.6m wide, and 0.8m high. At one end of the bench, there is a sculpted pile of a soldier’s kit. According to the artist, this imagery invites viewers to sit and reflect on the absence of the soldier, prompting contemplation of the sacrifices made during the war.
The inscription on the front of the bench reads “A PROMISE HONOURED,” signifying the fulfilment of the 1919 pledge to honour the American troops who were stationed around Winchester. An information plaque, situated on one side of the nearby steps, provides further context, detailing the significance of the memorial and its dedication to all of the soldiers who passed through Morn Hill Camp near Winchester. This camp was a major transit point during the war, accommodating over two million men, including 750,000 American troops.
Visitors are encouraged to sit on the bench, allowing for personal reflection on the historical events and the individuals who participated in them.
Logging Requirements
To claim this as a find, please post a photograph of you (you do not need to show your face if you do not want to) holding something with your caching name on, and the date of your visit, in front of or sat on the bench, ensuring that the soldier's kit is clearly visible.
Virtual Rewards 4.0 - 2024-2025
This Virtual Cache is part of a limited release of Virtuals created between January 17, 2024 and January 17, 2025. Only 4,000 cache owners were given the opportunity to hide a Virtual Cache. Learn more about Virtual Rewards 4.0 on the Geocaching Blog.