Experience Barnsley honours those who fell in the First World War in emotional new exhibition
16th September 2016
An emotional new exhibition will arrive at Experience Barnsley on Wednesday 24 August.
On display until Sunday 20 November, Stories of the Somme, marks the Centenary of the First World War. It tells the story of the bloodiest battle in the British Army’s history, through the eyes of local people.
The Battle of the Somme raged from 1st July to 19th November in 1916. It was a terrifyingly hard struggle for the soldiers involved and Barnsley’s men and boys were at the forefront of the fight.
Through the free exhibition visitors will discover more about how the Great War affected the lives of those fighting on the front line and also the lives of their families at home.
Throughout the exhibition there will be various activities and talks taking place including a poetry competition, Remembering the Great War. People are encouraged to write a short story or poem about the First World War and entrants can win a prize. The competition is being held in conjunction with Barnsley Museums, Barnsley Libraries and children’s author Hilary Robinson.
Cllr Roy Miller, Cabinet spokesperson for Place, said: “The exhibition is great way to mark the centenary of the Great War and remember those brave soldiers who fought for King and Country. It brings to life the harrowing stories of the local men involved and gives a rare insight into their lives on the battlefield and back home in Barnsley.”
Alongside the exhibition, visitors also have the opportunity to see a stunning piece of public art honouring soldiers who fell during the First World War. On display outside the town hall until Remembrance Sunday, it was created by artist’s musson+retallick and local school children. The work has been funded as part of an Arts Council grant to support the delivery of the town’s new Public Arts Strategy.
Information about the artwork including details about soldiers and schools involvement can be found at www.barnsley-museums.com/commemoration-of-the-somme
For more information about Stories of the Somme and the events taking place as part of the exhibition please visit www.experience-barnsley.com
