What Happened to the Tower of London Poppies?

By Robert Palmer

The Tower of London Poppies, also known as the Blood Swept Lands and Seas of Red, was a stunning art installation that captured the attention and hearts of people around the world. The installation consisted of 888,246 ceramic poppies, each representing a British or Commonwealth soldier who died in World War I. The poppies were planted in the moat surrounding the Tower of London and gradually filled the space with a sea of red.

The installation was created by artists Paul Cummins and Tom Piper and was on display from August 5 to November 11, 2014. During its three-month run, it attracted millions of visitors and raised millions of pounds for military charities.

But what happened to the Tower of London Poppies after they were taken down? Many people wondered if they would be preserved or if they would be destroyed.

Fortunately, the answer is that most of the poppies were preserved. In fact, many were sold to individuals and institutions around the world as part of a fundraising effort for military charities. The remaining poppies were distributed to various museums, galleries, and other public spaces in the UK.

One notable example is at the Imperial War Museum in London where a display entitled “Weeping Window” features several thousand poppies cascading from a high window onto an open space below. It’s a breathtaking sight that continues to draw crowds.

Another example is at St George’s Hall in Liverpool where a display entitled “Poppies: Weeping Window” features over 20,000 poppies cascading down one of its walls. This display has been so popular that it has been extended several times due to demand.

Overall, the fate of the Tower of London Poppies has been positive. They continue to serve as a powerful reminder of those who sacrificed their lives for their country during World War I. And through their ongoing displays throughout the UK and beyond, they continue to inspire and move people around the world.

In conclusion, the Tower of London Poppies were a beautiful and poignant art installation that captured the hearts of millions. While they may no longer be at the Tower of London, they continue to inspire and remind us of the sacrifices made by so many during World War I.