Soldier museum to be reimagined in city move

The Worcestershire Soldier Gallery, a military museum located in Worcester, is set to undergo a significant transformation as it prepares to relocate to a new venue known as The Commandery. This move is seen as a fantastic opportunity for the museum to enhance its collection and presentation. Currently situated in the city's museum and art gallery on Foregate Street, the Soldier Gallery will close its doors at the end of August and is scheduled to reopen in 2026 at The Commandery. This new location is conveniently located near notable landmarks such as Worcester Cathedral, the Museum of Royal Worcester Porcelain, and the Guildhall. Volunteers involved in the relocation process are optimistic that this new site will create a 'historical hub' for the city, where visitors can engage with the rich military history of Worcestershire. Colonel Stamford Cartwright, who is overseeing the move, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, 'It's going to be a great opportunity to reimagine the collection. ' He emphasized the importance of focusing on the personal stories of individuals from Worcestershire who have served in the military. Colonel Cartwright noted that it is crucial to honor the sacrifices made by these individuals throughout history. He pointed out that the way people engage with history has evolved since the exhibition was first established in the early 2000s. Nowadays, visitors are more interested in hearing about the personal experiences of soldiers from Worcester. He also mentioned that the museum will not overlook the interests of younger audiences, who are often fascinated by military artifacts such as weapons, swords, and bayonets. This focus on personal narratives and engaging displays is part of the broader history of the Worcestershire regiment, the Worcestershire yeomanry, and the gunners. To support the move, fundraising efforts are currently underway. A special event is planned to commemorate VE Day next month, featuring a performance by the Band of the Mercian Regiment on May 3 at 19:30 BST. The event will include a selection of marches, wartime songs, and compositions by renowned composers like Elgar and Walton. The volunteers are eager to hear from the community about their expectations and desires for the new military museum, believing that this relocation will provide an excellent opportunity to educate visitors about the significant military history of Worcestershire and its brave soldiers.