Cannock Chase’s military history highlighted in exhibition
A NEW series of events, walks and volunteering activities focussing on the New Zealand Rifle Brigade will take place this summer to raise awareness of Cannock Chase’s rich military history.
Support from the Heritage Lottery Fund will allow the third phase of Cannock Chase Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty’s First World War project to get under way.
Having fought at the Battle of the Somme and the Battle of Messines, the New Zealand Rifle Brigade were a valuable source of combat experience.
They arrived at Brocton Camp on Cannock Chase in September 1917 with a remit to train fresh drafts.
For the following two years, Cannock Chase became their home and UK headquarters.
During this time, they built a large-scale model of part of the Belgium town of Messines allowing troops to study the area in detail before going into battle there.
They also adopted a Harlequin Great Dane called Freda who became their prized mascot, and her grave remains on Cannock Chase.
Anne Walker, assistant AONB officer for Cannock Chase, said: “The men, colloquially known as Kiwis, had a good relationship with the locals and enjoyed visits, concert parties, musical concerts and tea dances.
"Some of the Rifle Brigade married local women before heading back to New Zealand.
"On leaving in May 1919, there was a huge ceremony in Stafford town centre with hundreds of people turning up to wave goodbye to the troops.”
A series of school workshops, events, walks and family activities will help to interpret this part of Cannock Chase’s Great War heritage to a wide range of people.
It is hoped the events will act as a catalyst to uncover more stories and bring people of all ages together to commemorate this important time in local history.
Trevor Warburton, secretary of Friends of Cannock Chase, said: “We have some of the men’s memoirs from this period, and we hope to work with the local army cadets to undercover more stories.
"Tasks include identifying, photographing and researching 100-year-old graffiti on the Triumphal Arch at Shugborough Estate, and linking them to the New Zealand soldiers.”
Events will be held at the Museum of Cannock Chase and at the Visitor Centre in Marquis Road between July and September.
For more information about ‘The New Zealand Rifle Brigade & Cannock Chase 1917-19’ project and its events, walking programme and volunteer opportunities, contact Anne Walker on 01785 619185 or email cannockchase@staffordshire.gov.uk
