The Dunkeswell Airfield Heritage Centre, located at Dunkeswell Airfield in Devon, England, is dedicated to preserving the history of the airfield, which played a significant role during World War II. The museum highlights Dunkeswell’s importance as a base for the United States Army Air Forces (USAAF) and its role in the Allied efforts during the war.
Dunkeswell Airfield Heritage Centre
Dunkeswell Airfield
Honiton EX14 4LG
+44 7778 857722
Good Friday – last Sunday of October (unless otherwise stated)
- Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holidays 11:00 – 16:00
Entrance Heritage centres is by donation.
Collection
Dunkeswell Airfield Heritage Centre shows how coastal command went about hunting the U boats down including film taken at Dunkeswell showing the Aircraft and the briefings
- The Graphic accounts of what took place .
- How Ford built a B24 Liberator in 55 minutes!
- What happened to Joe Kennedy, brother of JFK
- The Uniforms they wore.
- Dioramas & Models.
Key Highlights
- History of Dunkeswell Airfield:
- Dunkeswell was an important airbase during World War II and served as a key site for the USAAF 440th Bomb Group, which flew B-24 Liberators on bombing missions in Europe.
- The Heritage Centre offers a comprehensive look at the airfield’s role during the war, including its construction, operation, and the lives of the men and women who worked there.
- Aircraft Displays:
- While the Dunkeswell Airfield Heritage Centre does not house full aircraft, it has a number of model aircraft, parts, and artifacts related to the B-24 Liberator and other aircraft used during the war.
- Visitors can see parts of the aircraft that were stationed at Dunkeswell, such as propellers, engines, and various avionics and equipment used by the crews.
- Personal Stories and Memorabilia:
- The museum features personal stories of those who served at Dunkeswell, including pilots, aircrew, and ground personnel. These include diaries, letters, and photographs.
- A section is dedicated to the 44th Bomb Group veterans and their experiences, offering a personal and poignant insight into the challenges and sacrifices of wartime airmen.
- Exhibits on Wartime Operations:
- Detailed displays explain the role of Dunkeswell during major operations like the D-Day landings and the bombing campaigns in occupied Europe.
- Artifacts such as maps, mission logs, and uniforms give visitors a sense of what life was like for the aircrews stationed there.
- Memorial to the Fallen:
- The Dunkeswell Airfield Heritage Centre also includes a memorial area dedicated to those who lost their lives while stationed at Dunkeswell. The Roll of Honour features names of individuals who died during their service.
- Dunkeswell Today:
- In addition to its historical exhibits, the museum also provides information about the current use of the airfield, which is still in operation today for general aviation and flying training.
Photos Mark Griffiths