Front

Right

Left

Cuthbertson Memorial at Chester-le-Street.
A fine Gothic cross of Creetown unpolished granite has just been placed in the Chester-le-Street cemetery by public subscription to perpetuate the memory of the late Mr. J.W. Cuthbertson, the highly esteemed headmaster of Victoria Schools at Chester-le-Street.

Mr. Cuthbertson was widely known, not alone for his scholastic achievements. He was a zealous worker in the ranks of the local Freemasons, and did much good work in that connection, besides the attention he gave to promoting the volunteer movement.

He was one of the first to volunteer for active service in South Africa, and served there as sergeant in the service company to which he was attached during 1900 and 1901. He also took much interest in the Boys’ Brigade movement and was the commanding officer of his district at the time of his lamented death.

The memorial stands 6ft 6 ins. (2.1m) in height, and is appropriately in close proximity to the War Memorial erected to the deceased man’s comrades who fell while doing their country’s work in South Africa.

At the front is the following inscription: “In Memoriam: Joseph Whitby Cuthbertson, headmaster, Chester-le-Street Schools. Born 30th Oct. ?1865; died 11th May, 1903. Erected by public subscription”.

The right side is inscribed “Bro. J.W.C. was P.M. and Treasurer to the Earl of Durham Lodge of Freemasons; Z-elect of the Chapter of Concord Royal Arch Freemasons, and master of Dunelm Lodge of Mark Master Masons.” On the back of the memorial is recorded “Sergt. with the 1st Service Company (Durham L.I.) in the South African War, 1900-1.”

Photos: Chester-le-Street Heritage Group