Hunting through our Archives



Over the last couple of days, I have managed to spend some time looking at our WW2 Burma archives, trying to look at what we can use to commemorate VJ day. Obviously, we are unable to put these on display but hope to photograph some of them and use them virtually or on our planned external display.

And what a wonderful collection of items we have! Items are varied and cover the three battalions that were involved in the campaign. An order of the day by Lt-Gen Slim to a Border Regiment songbook - such a variety. Some of these items are very fragile and needed to be handled with care. I gently opened the files and spent several hours reading and photographing items. Items that offer an insight into the Forgotten Army.

We have a wonderful collection of archives and it is great when we can incorporate them into exhibitions and activities. Sometimes, we have used them in education sessions especially with university students, highlighting how archives can help illustrate history. It is great to make them accessible but have to consider wear and tear before handling them. As a Museum it is our duty to look after these items for the future. But for the last few days I have been able to touch a little piece of Border Regiment history, and it has been a great pleasure.

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