The museum has been awarded funding of £8,600 for a one-year learning project through the HLF’s First World War: then and now programme.

Starting in September 2014, Writing Home commemorates the First World War through the real life story of Private Arthur Webb, who joined the Machine Gun Corps in 1914 and was killed just ten days before the end of the war, aged 20. Using Arthur’s personal belongings and letters sent home from the font to his sister, Winnie, alongside the Geffrye’s collections and 1910 period room, the project will explore the stories of those left behind and consider the impact of the First World War on everyday life.

Janice Welch, Interim Head of Learning at the Geffrye, said: “We are delighted to have received the generous support of the HLF to fund Writing Home. We are excited to be able to bring Arthur’s story to life for our visitors. The project will actively encourage participants to learn more about the First World War and develop new skills. It will also create a lasting and sustainable legacy for all of our visitors.”

Writing Home will bring together a theatre-in-education session, an exhibition of children’s written work, and a family day which will show visitors how to research their own family histories. A youth-focused podcast project will enable young people, aged between 14 and 24, to develop their understanding of the museum’s core themes and the First World War, and learn new digital skills. The project will also support literacy skills in local primary and secondary schools.

Sue Bowers, Head of the HLF, London, said: “The impact of the First World War was far reaching, touching and shaping every corner of the UK and beyond. As we mark the Centenary of the conflict, we’re pleased to support projects such as Writing Home which casts a truly personal perspective on the effects of the war – both for those who served on the Western Front and their families who remained to face their own battles at home. Through this project young people in particular will gain a fascinating insight into how families like theirs lived during the First World War."

Notes to editors

The Geffrye, Museum of the Home
The Geffrye examines society’s changing tastes, style and behaviour over 400 years through a series of authentic, recreated period rooms and gardens. For more information visit the Geffrye Museum website.

Further information

Nancy Loader, Press Officer, on tel: 020 7749 6026 or email: press@geffrye-museum.org.uk