The Unknown Warrior and the Grieving Widow

Published on 19 January 2021
Submitted by Andrea Hetherington

In this presentation, which was delivered 'live' to an online audience, Andrea Hetherington talks about the war widows and how they were treated after World War 1.

War widows were invited to the ceremonies at Westminster Abbey and the Cenotaph on the occasion of the Unveiling of the Tomb of the Unknown Warrior on 11 November 1920, the first time they had been given official recognition at a national post war commemoration.

But what does this reveal about the place of Britain’s Great War widows in remembrance culture?

The Unknown Warrior and the Grieving Widow
Key benefits of membership

Becoming a member of The Western Front Association (WFA) offers a wealth of resources and opportunities for those passionate about the history of the First World War. Here's just three of the benefits we offer:

Local Branch Icon
Your local WFA branch

With around 50 branches, there may be one near you. The branch meetings are open to all.

Trenchmaper Icon
TrenchMapper

Utilise this tool to overlay historical trench maps with modern maps, enhancing battlefield research and exploration.

Standto Icon
Stand To!

Receive four issues annually of this prestigious journal, featuring deeply researched articles, book reviews and historical analysis.

Other Articles

2023 04 03 0561 Bromet Kephalo
29 October 2026

‘A varied repertoire’: the air war at Gallipoli in RAF Staff College papers

Read more
Gemini Generated Image Oco41Yoco41Yoco4
25 October 2026

The BEF in Two Retreats: Mons 1914 and Dunkirk 1940

Read more
Platoon Commanders (1)
21 October 2026

Most of the Work, Most of the Blame, None of the Credit. Platoon commanders in WW1

Read more
Image00004
15 October 2026

What’s in a name? The Futters of Burnham Thorpe

Read more
British Cavalry In World War 1
9 October 2026

British Cavalry on the Western Front

Read more