Heath Cemetery

Heath Cemetery is a Commonwealth war burial ground near Harbonnières containing approximately 1860 graves arranged in neat rows with white limestone headstones. The layout follows a geometric pattern that reflects both military organization and the scale of losses.

The burial ground was established during World War I following combat in the Somme region where British forces faced German opposition. It documents the heavy casualties from this major campaign.

The gravestones bear inscriptions and insignia representing soldiers from across the Commonwealth nations, showing the international scale of those who fought. These individual markers make each person's story visible and create a lasting impression on visitors.

The cemetery is located roughly 3 kilometers northeast of Harbonnières, reachable via the D1029 road that connects Amiens to Saint-Quentin. Wear sturdy footwear when walking the grounds, as the terrain can be uneven in places.

The cemetery holds the remains of William Reginald Rawlings, the first Aboriginal commissioned officer in the Australian military. His presence among the graves highlights the diverse origins and global nature of the conflict.

Location: Harbonnières

Architects: Reginald Blomfield

GPS coordinates: 49.87259,2.67225

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:01