Families seeking to delve into the depths of World War II history during the Easter holidays are urged to make their way to Lydiard House where a fresh exhibition, titled ‘Lest We Forget’, has now been unveiled, delving into the significant Black contribution to the World Wars and its ties to Wiltshire.
In 1943, amidst the turmoil of war, the American 101st Airborne division erected a military hospital within the expansive grounds of Lydiard Park. Troops, including African American GIs, were stationed there, leaving an indelible mark on the local landscape and history.
‘Lest We Forget’ pays homage to the stories and experiences of the Black community who resided and served in the Armed forces in Wiltshire during that era. This poignant exhibition at Lydiard House is but a fragment of a larger narrative crafted by the Wiltshire Museum, a testament to the collaborative efforts of the Wessex Museums Partnership.
Within the exhibition halls, visitors are treated to a wealth of archival treasures sourced from the Wiltshire and Swindon History Centre, alongside poignant memorabilia from the National Archives. Among these relics stands a solemn memorial wreath, graciously lent by the Wiltshire Museum.
A significant portion of the exhibition is dedicated to showcasing artefacts and artworks from the esteemed collection at Museum and Art Swindon. Notable pieces include a stirring portrayal of Regent Circus in 1945 by local luminary Harold Dearden, and a humble wooden cross retrieved from the grave of an anonymous Wiltshire soldier.
This Thursday (11 April), families are invited to follow in the footsteps of Second World War codebreakers through the engaging Signals & Cipher activity. Participants will have the opportunity to transmit messages via Morse Code, construct circuits to relay communiqués, convey Semaphore messages, and attempt to decipher intricate codes.
This interactive activity, designed to be educational yet entertaining, is complimentary with museum admission, which stands at £6.30 for adults, £3.45 for children aged 3-15, and £5.55 for seniors (65+) and students. Family tickets are also available, with children under three granted complimentary entry.
Due to limited availability, it is advisable to secure a slot for the Signals & Cipher activity in advance. Interested parties can reserve their places by reaching out to Lydiard House Museum via email at LydiardLearning@swindon.gov.uk.
Frances Yeo, Swindon Museums Manager, said: “I’m delighted that we’re able to present such a powerful and thought provoking exhibition at Lydiard House Museum, and especially one that ties in so well with the history of Lydiard and the surrounding area.
“This is the first exhibition in Swindon which showcases our joint working as part of the Wessex Museums Partnership, and visitors have already been struck by the quality and detail of the exhibition and research behind it.
“I’m really hoping that our younger visitors will enjoy our related Signals and Ciphers activities, which provides great value as it’s included in our regular museum admission price.”
For further details about Lydiard House and the Museum, eager enthusiasts are directed to visit Lydiard House Museum.
