An exhibition exploring the unique role played by the Staffordshire soldiers during the First World War has opened in Lichfield.
Staffordshire Goes to War will be brought to the Staffordshire Regiment Museum by the National Army Museum (NAM), drawing on a host of artefacts, photos and stories.
The two county Regiments, North Staffordshire and South Staffordshire, played a vital role in all stages of the First World War, and visitors to the exhibition will learn more about the stories and experiences of the troops who fought with their county units.
Janice Murray, Director General at the NAM, said: “Peppered with stories showing how the Staffordshire Regiment played its own important part in the events of the First World War, Staffordshire Goes to War untangles the complex war experience of the county.
“We were delighted to work with The Staffordshire Regiment Museum to create this unique exhibition, and are looking forward to opening its doors to visitors.
The exhibition will also highlight the two Staffordshire regiments’ part in some of the Great War’s most famous events, including the Christmas truce of 1914.
Amongst the displays are poignant reminders of the human cost of the war to the county – figures from the First Battle of Ypres show 93 per cent of those serving with the 1st Battalion of the South Staffordshire Regiment were wounded or lost their lives.
Visitors will be able to see artefacts that belonged to serving soldiers from the county, including an identification card belonging to Private Mervyn Charles Holmes of the North Staffordshire Regiment.
Danielle Pritchard, Curator of The Staffordshire Regiment Museum, added: “We’re pleased to have been able to partner with the NAM to realise this exhibition, set to add a powerful string to our bow of First World War commemoration activities.”
Staffordshire Goes to War runs until January 18, 2015. Admission is £3 adults, £2 seniors and children.