A plaque to commemorate the wounded soldiers of the British Indian Army of WW1 will be unveiled in a ceremony at a former military hospital, now Bournemouth Civic Centre, on 20 November 2024 – a date which marks the 110th anniversary of the troops’ first arrival in town.
It was on this date in 1914 that the Mont Dore Hotel (now the Bournemouth Civic Centre) was requisitioned by the Government to become a military hospital under War Office supervision. It became the No. 8A Indian General Hospital Mont Dore, initially caring for Indian troops and later for soldiers of the Australian & New Zealand and the British Armies.
Around 100 Indian soldiers, injured in the fighting on the Western Front, were the first to arrive in Bournemouth, and for the next year, a constant stream of troops would be sent to the town to be cared for at the hospital.
Pre-Partition India was the largest contributor from the British Empire of men and materials to the war effort. However, the crucial role that these Indian soldiers played has largely been overlooked in mainstream historical narratives.
Cllr Andy Martin Portfolio holder for Culture and Communication said: “The British Indian Army’s contribution to Allied World War One war effort was significant, and nine Indian soldiers were awarded Victoria Crosses for their bravery on the Western Front – the highest possible honour.”
“This plaque at Bournemouth Civic Centre, where many of the wounded men were cared for, represents our recognition of their courage and sacrifice, and ensures that their role is remembered. It also celebrates the little-known unique link between Bournemouth and the Indian community.”
For those soldiers who recovered, there was the chance to be active in the town, with some forming cricket and football teams and playing against local sides. A large number of recovering troops were also sent to convalescent camps at Milford on Sea and Barton on Sea.
Ramesh Lal, Chairman of the Bournemouth, Poole and Christchurch (BPC) Indian Community Association said:
“For the BPC Indian Community this commemorative plaque is a way to honour our ancestors, strengthen our ties with the community, and ensure that the legacy of the Indian soldiers is never forgotten.
“Further, this project establishes a deeper connection to the town’s history and fosters a sense of belonging for Indian Community living in the area today.”
From 1914 to 1916 wounded Indian troops were also treated at other military hospitals on the South Coast which had been set up in Brighton and Brockenhurst.
