Second World War: Barnsley’s Story

Barnsley Museums have had a very successful few months of programmes themed around World War Two: Barnsley’s Story. The launch of the event brought in thousands of people and a Spitfire was placed outside the town hall to mark the day. The last time a Spitfire was seen in the town was during the war when the women of Barnsley raised funds to buy a Spitfire towards the war effort by selling a book of local recipes in 1942!

‘Brilliant to see the Barnsley Spitfire today! Big well done to everyone at Barnsley Museums. My grandad used to work on them when he served in the RAF during WW2. We must never forget those who gave so much for our freedoms today’
Stephanie Peacock MP

This fantastic event was covered on Look North and Radio Sheffield, which helped to bring people into Barnsley and to celebrate the heritage of our town.

As part of the World War Two themed programmes, a trilogy of in-depth lectures were commissioned from wartime broadcaster and author Paul Reed which all sold out. These fascinating and accessible lectures included photographs from Paul’s personal collection as well as rare WW2 objects to handle. Paul wove in individual stories to show how the conflict-affected local people, including the experiences of black soldiers and women. 

The Second World War: Barnsley’s Story exhibition is still open at Experience Barnsley and will be on show until March 2020. This exhibition looks at life across the borough in wartime, the sacrifices people made and their courage in adversity, through objects, images and archives reflecting their stories. 

It is because of the support of BMHT donors that the museums can continue to deliver these kinds of events. Please donate to help the museums to continue preserving, enhancing and championing Barnsley’s heritage for the future.