Adelaide's major war memorial was unveiled by the then Governor, Sir Alexander Hore-Ruthven in 1931. Designed to commemorate the sacrifice of those who fought and died during the Great War (1914-1918).

It is not only for ourselves that we have erected this visible remembrance of great deeds, but rather that those who come after us and have not experienced the horrors of war, or realised the wanton destruction and utter futility of it all, may be inspired to devise some better means to settle international disputes other than by international slaughter. This memorial is the seal of South Australia’s homage to her sons, who in the ranks of brave company from all parts of the Empire, gave their lives during the Great War. (Governor Sir Alexander Hore-Ruthven).