Harwich is proud to mark the 100 year commemoration of Captain Fryatt in July 2019 with the return of the Cavell Van, the train carriage that brought back Captain Fryatt, Edith Cavell, and the Unknown Soldier – the only three individuals to be repatriated back to Britain after World War One.
The Cavell Van, usually on display by the Kent & East Sussex Railway, will be coming to the Harwich Mayflower Heritage Centre from the 6th to the 14th July, and a full programme of events will accompany the visit.
The Cavell Van will be able to be seen during the week, along side a special exhibition of Captain Fryatt by Mark Baker, and our U Boat Anchorage Exhibition, with prints of the surrender from the Imperial War Museum.
The week launches with a special day on 6th July, with themed trains, music and entertainment. Our new Food Wars: Battle on the Home Front touring exhibition will also be on display for the first time, exploring the fascinating relationship between food and war, including the National Kitchens and rationing of World War One.
As part of the weeks programme run by the Harwich Mayflower Heritage Centre, we are also repeating two popular events from our commemorations:
- U Boat Archive Film Show with live pianist, will be held on 11th July on the unique Harwich Sailing Club Barge. See extraordinary original footage from World War One of the submarines and the impact on ordinary lives, and this time there will be food as well! £12 for a fish and chip supper (cod, haddock, battered sausage or vegetarian option, all with chips) or £5 for just the film show. Food available on board from 6.30pm and film show from 7.30pm. Contact [email protected] to book and state your food order.
- Naval Heritage Walk on Saturday 13th July at 11am. Explore the other side of the Harwich Haven with a led walk in Shotley, starting at HMS Ganges, then following the trail around to St Marys church and the submarines memorial, with a unique view over the estuary. On the way hear about the history of the surrender, Captain Fryatt, and the work being done by the Ganges boys during the war. The walk is free but booking essential, contact [email protected]
For more information about the Cavell Van and the full programme, visit http://harwichmayflower.com/the-harwich-railway-and-shipping-museum/
To book for the Naval Heritage Walk or the U Boat Archive Film and Food night, contact [email protected]