INTRODUCTION TO THE MIDDLEWICH AND THE GREAT WAR PROJECT

'MIDDLEWICH AND THE GREAT WAR PROJECT'

by Bernice Walmsley, Mayor of Middlewich
(based on a speech made by the Mayor at the launch of the Middlewich And The Great War project in October 2013)

Photo taken at the launch of the project at Middlewich High School in October 2013

This year will mark one hundred years since the beginning of the Great War.

The war was created partly by uneasy alliances, but more so by an aggressive Germany which took radical action over the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand.

This action led to the outbreak of war in August 1914, the first shot being taken on the 22nd of that month.

The Great  War was dubbed 'the war to end all wars' and caused considerable loss of life, extensive damage to Europe, and great hardships for the populations involved.

This project not only remembers those who fought and worked so hard for victory and peace, but also looks to the impact this era had...the role of women in society, medical advancements and scientific discoveries to name a few.

In Middlewich there is plenty of documentary evidence of our town in wartime.

Documents such as the Roll Of Honour, minute books of the schools and MUDC, papers relating to families, newspapers and war records of the red Cross.

Resources can be found via the town's cenotaphs, photographs and medals plus many more...

One hundred years on the impact of the war can still be felt. It changed Britain and its communities forever in so many ways.

Many people may not realise the significance of the Great War and its legacy to modern life.

So let's take this opportunity for Middlewich Schools, community groups, churches and residents alike to explore and research this important era.

We will learn what we can, add portraits to the names listed in the Roll of Honour, and develop ways of bringing what we learn together in a community event, for the community, by the community.

Middlewich Town Council will hold a heritage event on the 4th and 5th of October.

This is a community challenge to all to think of acts of commemoration of the Great War and its era and, through research, workshops and networking, producing a method of delivery for our residents and visitors to come along and see.

Delivery could be a display at the event, artwork, written work, drama, music, even a show, competition nor, perhaps, a celebration of your own society in the Great War era.

Taking part in this project is a fantastic way to remember those who gave so much and a chance to showcase your own societies and establishments.

If you're interested in taking part in our town's Great War project please get in touch and work with us to produce the biggest Middlewich event yet!

Cllr Bernice Walmsley
Mayor of Middlewich
2013-2014

If you're not already involved, and would like to be, you can contact Kerry Fletcher on 01606 833434, or email her on
heritage@middlewich.org.uk

-Ed