Wethersfield Airfield Museum tells the story of former RAF Wethersfield, an airfield in Essex, England that has a rich military history spanning from World War II to the Cold War. The museum primarily focuses on preserving the history of the airfield, its role in military operations, and the personnel who served there, particularly during the time when the U.S. Air Force was stationed at the base.

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Wethersfield Airfield Museum

The Green

Finchingfield Essex, CM7 4JS

United Kingdom

https://rafwethersfield.co.uk/

info@rafwethersfield.co.uk

Open Saturday and Sunday 10am to 4pm May – October

Or by appointment

Key Highlights of the Museum:

1. RAF Wethersfield History:
   • World War II: RAF Wethersfield was originally built in 1942 and used by the Royal Air Force during World War II as a bomber and fighter base. The museum chronicles this period, including the squadrons that operated from the airfield, such as the No. 25 Squadron and No. 65 Squadron.
   • U.S. Air Force Era: After the war, RAF Wethersfield became a key base for the U.S. Air Force, particularly during the Cold War. It served as the home of several fighter-bomber squadrons, most notably the 20th Fighter Wing, which flew F-84 Thunderjets and later F-100 Super Sabres. The museum has a strong focus on the U.S. Air Force’s presence and contributions to NATO defense.
2. Exhibits and Artifacts:
   • The Wethersfield Airfield Museum’s collection includes a wide variety of artifacts, including:
     • Photographs, documents, and maps detailing the history of the airfield.
     • Military uniforms, medals, and personal items donated by both British and American service members who were stationed at Wethersfield.
     • Aircraft models and displays focusing on the types of aircraft that were flown from the base, such as the P-47 Thunderbolt, F-84 Thunderjet, and F-100 Super Sabre.
     • Cold War memorabilia, including items related to the airfield’s role during the tense geopolitical climate of the era.
3. Cold War Era Focus:
   • A significant portion of the museum is dedicated to the Cold War, as RAF Wethersfield was a critical part of NATO’s defense strategy in Europe. The museum details the airfield’s transition from a WWII RAF base to a strategic outpost for the U.S. Air Force during the Cold War, focusing on the role of American and British personnel in maintaining readiness during this period.
4. Airfield and Buildings:
   • Although much of the original airfield is no longer in use for aviation, visitors can still explore parts of the old airbase, including some of the original hangars, barracks, and control tower.
5. 20th Fighter Wing Legacy:
   • The Wethersfield Airfield Museum highlights the legacy of the 20th Fighter Wing, which was based at Wethersfield for nearly 20 years before moving to RAF Upper Heyford. The 20th Fighter Wing was heavily involved in training exercises and NATO missions during the Cold War, and its pilots flew missions across Europe.
6. Preserving the Legacy:
   • While RAF Wethersfield is no longer an active airfield, the museum plays an important role in preserving the memory of the airbase and the significant contributions it made to both British and American military history. It serves as a reminder of the shared history between the Royal Air Force and the U.S. Air Force, and the cooperation that defined much of the Cold War period.

Experience:

The Wethersfield Airfield Museum offers an intimate, focused look at the military history of one of England’s former airbases, highlighting both its role in World War II and its pivotal importance during the Cold War. It’s a must-visit for history buffs, particularly those interested in U.S.-U.K. military cooperation and the evolving role of military aviation during the 20th century.