Royal Welch Fusiliers Museum safeguards valuable First World War memories
16 Apr 2014 02:54 PM
The Royal Welch Fusiliers Museum in Caernarfon
is playing an important role in safeguarding valuable memories and history from
the First World War as we mark the centenary of the conflict, First Minister of
Wales Carwyn Jones said yesterday
The
First Minister visited the museum, which is housed in two of Caernarfon
Castle’s towers, to view their existing display on the First World
War and to hear about their plans for events and further exhibitions that will
take place during the period of the commemoration.
The
museum is currently seeking photographs of soldiers who died so they can be
displayed at the Museum. Over 10,000 members of the RWF died in the
conflict. The existing exhibition at the Museum also highlights the
number of writers who were in the RWF during the war, including Siegfried
Sassoon, Robert Graves and Hedd Wyn.
The
First Minister said:
“No part of Wales was untouched by the First World
War and as we commemorate the centenary, the Royal Welch Fusiliers Museum is
playing a key role in preserving the memories and history of that time.
Its aspiration to collect photographs of all the members of the battalion
who fell is a huge task but one which will help to connect us with our lost
generation.
“The museum programme of events is part of a range
of activities and events taking place across Wales. Cadw recently
announced a new scheme to safeguard our war memorials in Wales, and I would
encourage local communities to apply for the grants available to assist with
the conservation of these important monuments to the fallen of
Wales.
“The First World War changed the course of history
and the Royal Welch Fusiliers Museum is ensuring that future generations
realise the impact this event had across the country.”
Lieutenant General Jonathon Riley said:
“The First Minister has given a clear lead in
highlighting the importance of the Great War centenary to the enrichment of
Welsh life and culture. We are always delighted to welcome him to our
resources in Caernarfon Castle, Wrexham and Bodelwyddan - and never more
so than at this time. We are committed to doing whatever we can to contribute
to the events of the next four years, with our friends and
partners.”
Shirley Williams the Museum’s Education Officer
said:
"We have recently launched a project where we are
collecting the photographs and biographical details of fallen soldiers of the
RWF. Our eventual aim is to display the information of each man on the
centenary of their deaths.
“Our project has already drawn the interest of the
local community and people further afield who have enthusiastically contributed
around 1,000 photographs to our collection so far. Our project is
on-going and we continue to appeal for materials from the public and hope for
some volunteers who would be willing to scan old newspapers and archived
collections."
The
Royal Welch Fusiliers is Wales’ oldest infantry regiment, with 300 years
of service. North Wales is its traditional home but recruits have come
from all over the UK and Ireland.