Memorial Workshops - The Lost Generation

One of the saddest sights in Willesden Jewish Cemetery is the section in which lie babies and children. Many of them died during the First World War and the Spanish Flu pandemic but infant mortality was generally rife, particularly for those living in crowded and poor-quality housing. Some of the graves are unnamed and have become somewhat neglected.

Willesden Jewish Cemetery have begun the process and have made new name plaques. Foundations will require some re-filling and gravel needs to be laid where overgrown inaccessible areas currently exist. Existing memorials will need cleaning and the area will do well with a general tidy up. It is a challenge that needs to be met as one can only consider the contribution these children would have made to not only our community but to the world at large. In their memory, we are asking for volunteers to work alongside our team.

We will be running a series of workshops to:

• Re-erect loose headstones.

• Refixing the base on the foundation of a memorial.

• Cleaning the memorial.

• Securing the memorial joints with cement, bringing the memorial back to life!

Contribution to make a positive impact on the rejuvenation of this significant heritage site.

• Gain valuable experience in memorial maintenance.

• Work in a dynamic and supportive team environment.

• The opportunity to develop your skills  in a historic setting.

• The opportunity to develop your knowledge of history and culture and share with others.

• The opportunity to meet and share experiences with people from different backgrounds.

• Travel expenses covered within 10 miles.

• Refreshments while on site.

• Social events and outings planned exclusively for volunteers.