The Princess Mary Gift Box was given to those wearing the ‘King’s Uniform’ at Christmas time 1914. It has become one of the most iconic and enduring images from the First World War with many families today still having the Gifts belonging to their relatives.
As part of its ongoing programme of exhibitions and activities to commemorate the centenary of the First World War, the Priest’s House Museum & Garden in Wimborne Minster will be hosting a display entitled ‘A Christmas Wish 1914-2014’ from 11 November. The display by Martin Barry will tell the story of Princess Mary’s Gift but the museum also wants to tell the stories of those soldiers and sailors who were given the gifts a hundred years ago. The goal is to be able to present a series of panels showing photographs of your relatives’ gift boxes and their details, name, rank, regiment and, if possible, a photograph of them as well.
The museum is hosting three further sessions with Martin on Saturday 1 November and Saturday 8 November, 10am to 4.30pm, and Thursday 6 November, 2.30pm to 4.30pm, in order to photograph your gift boxes and record the details of the original owners. Admission is FREE for those attending these sessions. If you have a gift box but are unable to bring it, you may photograph it yourself (against a plain white background please) and email it and the soldier’s details to christmas.wish2014@gmail.com.
For further information please contact the museum on 01202 882533 or visit www.priest-house.co.uk
