Fabian Ware Blue Plaque

About This Blue Plaque

Sir Fabian Ware was a remarkable British commander who left an indelible mark on how we honor fallen soldiers. Born in 1869, Ware founded the Imperial War Graves Commission, now known as the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, which continues to maintain cemeteries and memorials for those who perished in World Wars I and II.

During World War I, Ware was deeply moved by the staggering loss of life and the lack of proper burial records. He proposed the creation of an organization to ensure that all fallen soldiers, regardless of rank or social status, received dignified burials and memorials. His tireless efforts led to the establishment of the Imperial War Graves Commission in 1917.

From 1911 to 1919, Ware resided at 14 Wyndham Place in London’s Borough of Westminster. This elegant townhouse, situated in the heart of the city, served as Ware’s base during the pivotal years when he laid the groundwork for the Commission. Westminster, with its rich history and iconic landmarks, provided a fitting backdrop for Ware’s visionary endeavors.

Ware’s unwavering dedication to honoring the sacrifices of the fallen earned him the titles of Knight Commander of the Royal Victorian Order and Knight of the British Empire. His legacy endures through the meticulously maintained war cemeteries and memorials that dot the landscapes of Europe and beyond, serving as poignant reminders of the human cost of war and the importance of remembrance.

The blue plaque at 14 Wyndham Place, erected in 2014, stands as a testament to Sir Fabian Ware’s extraordinary contributions. It invites passersby to pause and reflect on the life of a man who sought to ensure that the ultimate sacrifices made by so many would never be forgotten.