Explore the history of the First and Second World Wars, as commemorated in Willesden Jewish Cemetery.
From 1pm there will be a free exhibition of Trench Art, curated by military historian Stan Kaye. It is a fascinating collection of shells and bullets, decorated by soldiers, who used a nail or a bayonet point to scratch names, dates and some even had pictures or poems on them. Others were transformed into works of art or made into useful household tools by local people after the war.
Stan will be on hand to talk about his collection. Visitors will be given a unique opportunity to learn about and hold an object that is over 100 years old which, on one hand caused death and destruction, and on the other a piece of art.
2 pm: Guided Walk: the Two World Wars
Volunteer led guided walk focusing on those soldiers commemorated at Willesden Jewish Cemetery who lost their lives during the two World Wars.
Every stop along the way will introduce visitors to stories of Jewish soldiers who sacrificed their lives for King and country. Each story is unique, tragic and fascinating, offering a different insight into what it was like to serve in the war.
The walk will start in the Heritage Centre and last for about 75 minutes. We recommend you leave some time, before or after, to view the exhibition and funerary buildings.
A limited amount of parking is available on site.
Wheelchairs can be provided upon request.
No dogs, with the exception of assistance dogs.
Our guided walks cost £10, with a concession for Seniors and Students of £8. This allows us to do what we do best - maintaining the House of Life visitor experience and making the Cemetery’s heritage and its stories accessible to people from all backgrounds.
A German artillery shell by a member of the Chinese Labour Corps (Courtesy: Stanley Kaye)
