Fishermen on the Front Line

New exhibition: A Shared Experience: The impact of the First World War on Scotland’s fishing communities. To commemorate the start of the First World War we are exploring the effects that the war had on Scotland’s fishing communities, on land and on sea, at home and abroad. The First World War had both personal and collective impacts on those involved, whether they were away fighting or at home. In this exhibition we explore the specific effects that the war had on those who made their living from the sea. Using objects from our collections and individual stories of those affected we paint a national picture of the war in Scotland’s coastal communities. At the beginning of the war many fishermen entered the services and swapped the familiar hazards of life at sea for the dangers of the trenches or naval work. For those who stayed at home fishing became severely restricted. Fishermen were left with very small areas left to fish in and many boats were requisitioned for the Navy. In addition to medals, service records and other items associated with the fighting, the exhibition includes more unusual items that point to the impacts felt on those left at home. One of the more notable objects on display is a commemorative tablecloth. As part of the war effort the Red Cross held a fundraiser to raise money to send gifts such as cigarettes to the men who served on the front. Everyone paid to have a name embroidered onto the tablecloth and the names of those who had been killed were embroidered in the middle. We also look at the sometimes neglected area of the war at sea. Both fishermen and fishing boats were called upon to serve and many lost their lives while doing their duty to keep the sea lanes clear. This is a topic that needs further research and we would particularly welcome any stories or memories that visitors would like to share with the museum.

Suitable for
Family friendly

Admission
Mon – Sat : 10 – 5.30, Sun : 12 – 5, last admissions 1 hour before closing. Entry : included in museum admission, accompanied children FREE.

Website
www.scotfishmuseum.org

Source: http://www.culture24.org.uk//sc000188?id=EVENT490758