Monument to the Women of World War II, War memorial in Whitehall, London, United Kingdom.
The Monument to the Women of World War II is a war memorial in Whitehall, Westminster, made from bronze and stone. The sculpture shows clothing and equipment hanging on the walls rather than human figures, representing the absence of women after the war ended.
Queen Elizabeth II unveiled the memorial in 2005, six decades after the war ended. Its creation followed a years-long campaign to recognize the contribution of millions of women during the conflict.
The clothes on the memorial show the work of women in munitions factories, healthcare and home defense during the Second World War. Visitors can recognize the different uniforms and protective clothing that women wore in their daily service.
The memorial stands freely accessible on the street between the Cenotaph and Downing Street. Information panels at the base explain the professions depicted and the historical context for interested visitors.
The sculpture displays 17 different garments and uniforms, each hanging on clothing pegs and left empty. This depiction without human faces emphasizes the temporary nature of wartime work and the return of women to civilian life.
Location: City of Westminster
Inception: 2005
Creator: John W. Mills
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible
GPS coordinates: 51.50350,-0.12620
Latest update: December 5, 2025 22:29
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