A low octagonal drum and shallow dome give Cullen’s war memorial a quiet architectural presence in The Square.
Quick facts
- Date
- 1919–20
- Architect / designer
- John Wittet of Elgin
- Type
- Octagonal domed ashlar war memorial with inscribed granite panels
- Designation
- Listed building, Category B (LB23780)
- OS grid reference
- NJ 51282 67155
Architecture, archaeology and continuing use
Polished ashlar rises from a stepped base through seven recessed granite name panels. Short pilasters, a continuous entablature, alternating pediments and a slate cornice lead to the shallow domed roof and simple finial.
Its story
John Wittet designed the memorial after the First World War. Nina, Countess of Seafield, laid its foundation stone on 6 August 1920. Later inscriptions extended its commemorative role beyond the original conflict.
Why it is included
Category B status recognises an unusually architectural memorial whose form, materials and central setting contribute strongly to Cullen’s civic space.
What to notice
- The seven polished granite inscription panels.
- Alternating pediments around the octagonal wallhead.
- The restrained dome and finial above the memorial chamber.
Reading the surroundings
The memorial is visible in the public square. Read names respectfully, avoid climbing the steps or structure, and allow space during ceremonies and maintenance.
Timeline
- 1919–20 John Wittet designed and built the octagonal memorial.
- 6 August 1920 Nina, Countess of Seafield, laid the foundation stone.
- After 1945 Additional remembrance extended the monument’s public meaning.
- 2026 The memorial remains part of Moray Council’s public war-memorial estate.
What we know — and what remains uncertain
The statutory description records the original fabric but does not provide a complete history of later inscriptions or conservation.
Sources & further reading
- Historic Environment Scotland: Cullen War Memorial, LB23780 — Designation status, mapped location, date, fabric and architectural or archaeological interest.
- Moray Council: Cullen War Memorial — Current public identity, memorial management and commemorative context.
Location
OS grid reference NJ 51282 67155 · Location confidence: High: the national designation supplies an official mapped National Grid Reference; an additional source confirms the Place relationship, history or current identity. · Select the marker to open its satellite view in Google Maps. On desktop, drag Pegman (the yellow figure) onto a blue road. On mobile, turn on the Street View layer and tap a blue road. Other photo markers may be user-contributed.
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