This memorial is the largest in St Matthew’s Church and was paid for by Sir David Salomons as a tribute to his only son and heir, David Reginald Salomons, who died during the sinking of HMS Hythe on 28 October 1915. Captain Salomons and 127 other ranks of the 1st/3rd Kent Field Company, Royal Engineers drowned after their ship, HMS Hythe, was in collision with HMS Sarnia on the night of 28 October 1915 whilst the troops were being moved to a different location in the Dardanelles during the First World War.
It was originally housed in the Drill Hall on Speldhurst Road, Southborough but when this was demolished in 1969, a new home was needed for it. Neither St Peter’s Church nor Christ Church in Southborough had room for such a large memorial so it was decided to place it here. It was rededicated on 22 June 1969. Every year, we receive visits from descendants of those named who come to pay their respects.
The majority of the men mentioned here are also commemorated at the Cape Helles Memorial on the Gallipoli peninsular.
Centenary
This year sees the Centenary of sinking which will be commemorated by
a Service on Saturday 31st October 2015 at 3pm. All are welcome to join us.
Refreshments will be served afterwards in the Church Centre where there will also be a display of information about the disaster by the Southborough Society.
For catering purposes, please let the Administrator know if you are planning to attend. Tel: 01892 618108 or email: office@stmattschurch.org.uk
