The Boston Great War Commemoration

We've mentioned before on the blog Michael Hallett's (BGS 2002-09) plans for a commemoration of The First World War as it pertains to Boston and its people. Here, in Michael's own words, is an update on progress.

The Boston Great War Commemoration Gone but not forgotten. WW1 Memorial Plaque at Boston Bridge Street, dedicated to Boston MUIOFF Welcome to the second update on the project aimed to commemorate and explore the the heritage of Boston and the wider area during the First World War. A great deal has certainly happened since the first press release in December, the plans are certainly pushing forward at an astronomic speed! Everyday bears new updates, new ideas and new opportunities. Read on to find out more. The Boston Great War Commemoration will take place in the Boston Drill Hall at Main Ridge, this is of significant historical interest as it is where the Boston 'C' Company of the 4th Battalion of the Lincolnshire Regiment trained and assembled before they marched out to battle in 1915. I would like to take this opportunity to offer my thanks to the 25 Platoon Boston Lincolnshire Army Cadet Force for being so helpful. The two day event will be held on the 2 and 3 August 2014. As promised it will be free for all to visit. We have firm details now. Upon entering the drill hall, the public will be greeted with stall holders lining the sides of the drill hall with all of their artefacts and collections from the First World War, each one run by an expert in their chosen field. Stall holders include Cliff Clover, an expert in Zeppelins, and Martin Credland who has an extensive collection of uniforms belonging to a variety of nationalities, but there are more; every one of them willing to share their knowledge with members of the public. There will also be the chance to get a more hands-on approach with some of the artefacts. We are also working with Caroline Wallis of the Coastal Boston Project to explore the part the port of Boston played as a repatriation area for prisoners, and the tales of the civilian fishermen who risked all ensuring the nation's plates were never empty. In the bar area, members of the public will be able to explore their own family history with experts in the area and the leading family history websites, the research will be conducted whilst refreshments are served. There are also two lecture rooms in the hall which will be utilised for short lectures on specific topics connected with the war. Meanwhile outside it is hoped there will be a chance to see genuine First World War vehicles and even a ¼ scale tank which is fully mechanical and operational, there may even be a chance to take part in military drill. In addition I am still trying to formulate at least a day of school visits to host a workshop dealing with the First World War to be connected to the National Curriculum, anyone with an interest in this would be of great assistance. I am personally in charge of securing funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund, and I will try my hardest to obtain it! However the project is always developing. We still need support to spread the word, we still need information about what other nationalities were doing, their experiences, etc. The commemoration aims to display all nationalities' involvement. Any stories and information will be welcomed, as will anybody willing to get involved with the project. We currently have the Army Cadet Force aiding us, but we would welcome to opportunity to work with others. This project started out with just myself, then with my colleague Don Jenkins. Now we have a team willing to help us, it is ever increasing in numbers. The Boston Great War Commemoration is being produced for the people, by the people. Those wishing to contact me can do so on: historywithhallett@gmail.com Mobile - 07702746642 or Mr. Don Jenkins Mobile - 07966220135