War Memorial On The Corner Of Mill Lane And Church Road

The war memorial, located at the corner of Mill Lane and Church Road, was erected in 1918 and designed by Harry Inigo Triggs. It is made of sandstone and features a square pillar with a slightly projecting upper section that forms a gabled niche with a moulded base and imposts, topped with a plain clay tile roof. The base of the niche has an inscription that reads: "In peace from the battle, Psalm LV 19". The pillar is adorned with a plaque made of marble tiles, bordered with gold mosaic and a cross, which lists the roll of honour for Steep, containing 53 names. The niche itself is empty.

Historically, this war memorial is significant as it was created as a replica of a memorial designed by Triggs in Sicily and was erected within 21 days of the Armistice, making it one of the earliest First World War memorials and the earliest in Hampshire. It was dedicated by the Reverend MG Archibold, Rural Dean of Petersfield, and unveiled by Mr AB Trevor-Battye of Ashford Chase on 6 December 1918. Harry Inigo Triggs (1876-1923) was known for designing various buildings in Hampshire and Surrey, including other war memorials, and he contributed to the revival of the Italian Renaissance style in English gardens during the Arts and Crafts movement.

This memorial holds strong historic and cultural significance both locally and nationally, particularly due to its unique design by a notable architect and its status as an early First World War memorial.