About Us

10.5 cm Field Gun

In 2008, it became clear that while 2009 would see the 70th anniversary of the outbreak of World War Two, the major museums and institutions were more concerned about almost every subject other than the milestone about to pass. In 2009, while those who were a part of and witnessed the events of 1939 were already sadly becoming a rare breed, it appeared that, as with much of the history of this country, too little would be done too late. We resolved to rectify this and mounted an exhibition at Newhaven Fort in East Sussex. Over the winter of 2009/10, we extended the exhibition to include and reflect the next milestone, that of Operation Dynamo. The national narrative when it comes to the events surrounding Dunkirk and Operation Dynamo are, alas, clouded with a re-invented story, which, while amazing, are never presented within the context of the times, or indeed anything as sensational as the facts. For many, the whole episode was merely about the 'Little Ships' and the ports which, by virtue of nothing more than their geographical location, went on to play their parts; while it is important that these are remembered and indeed commemorated, they tell only a part of the whole story.

By way of ensuring that a fitting memorial can be left to those who took part, we are now able to present our exhibition via the wonderful medium of the internet. The advantages this presents are many, least of all, to reach a wider audience. Unlike many museums, we firmly believe in presenting the narrative from as many different perspectives as possible; only by doing so, is it possible to gain a full understanding of the actual events. Likewise, we believe in presenting our exhibition based around as many original objects as possible, so although we have a small selection of reproduction items, this is an option we only pursue when we have no other choice. We seek out the finest quality reproductions that are available. We do deal with some unpleasant topics, not least that of the rise of the extremist politics in the post-World War One period. However, these are presented only to add an understanding of the outbreak of World War Two, and not intended in any way to glorify the régimes concerned; we are completely apolitical.

So please read, understand and take a moment to remember all those involved in the story, from whatever side.

As of 2016 we have teamed up with Fort Luton, Medway Kent and are actively working towards presenting the museum to the public.

Easter 2018 saw the official opening of the museum to the public. Works however continue both to the museum and to the site as a whole, so there will be limited open days during 2018. For more information please, click here.

Museum Patrons

Howard Giles

Dr L Shaw Cobden BA (Hons) MSC D.Phil (Oxon)

James Holland

Dr Tony Pollard

Robin Schafer

Dr Peter Caddick-Adams

Bill Moffat

Richard Osgood

Al Murray

Dr Sarah-Louise Miller

Below are images from Newhaven in 2010.

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