USAAF 93rd Bomb Group Museum

The USAAF 93rd Bomb Group Museum, located at Hardwick Airfield in Norfolk, England, is a tribute to the American airmen who served in the Eighth Air Force during World War II. This museum specifically honors the 93rd Bomb Group, known as the “Traveling Circus,” which flew B-24 Liberators from Hardwick during the war.

USAAF 93rd Bomb Group Museum

Hardwick Airport

Topcroft

Norwich NR35 2BE

United Kingdom

www.93rd-bg-museum.org

hardwickusaaf@gmail.com

+44 1508531405

Third Sunday of the month May – October 10:00 – 17:00

Free admission

SAT NAV NR35 2BG

Collection

The 93rd Bomb Group Museum at Hardwick airfield

USAAF 93rd Bomb Group Museum with items relating to the USAAF and 93rd Bomb Group on display. The museum has limited opening times. It’s partly housed in nissen huts and partly in the hangar with the airworthy aircraft of Maurice Hammond.

N4712V 75-5094/104/W

G-ELMH 42-84555/EP-H/D


G-AMVD TJ565

Boeing PT-13D Kaydet

North American AT-6D Harvard III

Taylorcraft Auster V

Key Highlights

  1. Historical Context:
    • The 93rd Bomb Group was part of the United States Army Air Forces (USAAF) Eighth Air Force and played a significant role in bombing campaigns over Europe.
    • Nicknamed the “Traveling Circus” for their frequent deployment to other bases for special missions, including the famous Ploiești oil refinery raid in Romania.
  2. Exhibits:
    • Aircraft Memorabilia: Artifacts from B-24 Liberators, including parts, uniforms, and personal items from crew members.
    • Mission Displays: Maps, photographs, and mission logs detailing the group’s operations, including bombing raids and supply missions.
    • Personal Stories: Letters, diaries, and oral histories of the airmen, giving a personal insight into life on the base and in combat.
  3. Recreated Base Environment:
    • Parts of the museum are housed in restored Nissen huts (WWII-era prefabricated buildings), providing an authentic feel of the airfield as it was during the war.
    • Displays include equipment and tools used by the ground crew who maintained the B-24s.
  4. Tributes and Memorials:
    • A Roll of Honor commemorating the airmen who lost their lives in service.
    • Displays highlighting the strong bond between the local community and the American servicemen.
  5. Outdoor Exhibits:
    • Period vehicles and artifacts from the airfield.
    • Informational plaques around the site explaining the layout and historical significance of Hardwick Airfield.