07 November, 10:00 - 16:30
Port Sunlight Remembers: From Home Front to Front Line
Port Sunlight Museum
Step back in time and discover how war shaped everyday life in Port Sunlight. Join us at Port Sunlight Museum for a day of fascinating talks, hands-on activities and wartime stories as we explore the experiences of those who lived, worked and served during times of conflict.
On arrival, visitors will receive an identity card belonging to a real person from the First World War. As you explore the museum, you’ll discover their occupation, family life and wartime experiences, bringing their story to life throughout the day.
Normal admission applies to visit Port Sunlight Museum – plan and book your visit here.
10am-4.30pm
Hands-on Heritage: Wartime Handling Table
Get hands-on with history and discover original and replica wartime objects linked to Port Sunlight. Explore First and Second World War cap badges, a Lever Brothers paper glider kit, a copy of the Golden Book and items from our wartime handling collection.
11.30am-1pm
Port Sunlight Remembers: A Wartime Walking Tour
With Mike Wynne
Tickets £15 adult, £10 concession, £5 child
Book tickets
Museum admission included. Pre-booking essential.
Step back in time and discover how the peaceful village of Port Sunlight was touched by the events of the First and Second World Wars. Join Port Sunlight Village Trust guide Mike Wynne, dressed in authentic Home Guard uniform, for a fascinating guided walk through the village’s wartime past.
As you explore Port Sunlight’s historic streets, you’ll uncover stories of local men who answered the call to serve and learn about the impact of war on the Lever Brothers workforce and wider community. Along the way, hear tales of heroism, sacrifice, remembrance and resilience while visiting locations connected to wartime life in the village.
From memorials and military service to home front preparations and wartime defence measures, this engaging tour brings to life the experiences of the people of Port Sunlight during two of the twentieth century’s most significant conflicts.
A must for anyone interested in local history, military history or the remarkable stories hidden within the village.
12pm-12.20pm
A Place of Refuge: The Belgian Families of Port Sunlight
Talk by Claire Bates
During the First World War, Belgian refugees found a safe haven in Port Sunlight. Join us for this 20-minute talk to discover the stories of the families welcomed to the village and the community that helped them rebuild their lives.
No booking needed.
1pm-2pm
Welfare Organisations of the First World War
Talk by Gary Coker
Gary Coker examines the vital role played by welfare organisations, including the YMCA, during the First World War, exploring how they supported servicemen through practical assistance, recreation and welfare services both at home and overseas.
No booking needed.
2pm-3pm
The Port Sunlight Order of Industrial Heroism
Talk by Tony Jones
Tony Jones explores the fascinating history of the Port Sunlight Order of Industrial Heroism, an unusual award recognising extraordinary acts of bravery by ordinary people, and shares the remarkable stories of those who received it.
No booking needed.
3pm-4pm
Ask the Experts: The Stories Behind Your Medals
With Members of the OMRS Northern Branch
Visitors are invited to bring along family medals and decorations for informal discussion with OMRS members, who can help explain their significance, uncover the stories of those who received them and offer advice on further family history research.
No booking needed, drop-in. Museum admission applies.
10am-4.30pm
Family Craft Activity: Create Your Own Wartime Medal
What would your medal be awarded for?
Inspired by the extraordinary stories of those who served during the First and Second World Wars, visitors are invited to design and make their own medal to take home. This fun, hands-on family activity celebrates courage, community and remembrance in Port Sunlight.
10am-4.30pm
Explore the Worker’s Cottage
Take a glimpse into life on the Home Front during the First and Second World Wars inside the Worker’s Cottage. Through archival stories of ordinary people from Port Sunlight, discover the challenges, sacrifices and resilience that shaped everyday wartime experiences.
Admission to the Worker’s Cottage is included with your Port Sunlight Museum ticket.
