Exhibition brings wartime stories to life

A new County Durham exhibition is shining a light on the lasting impact of conflict on local families and communities through a collection of personal stories and historic artefacts.

A Debt Beyond Words has opened at The Story, Durham County Council’s culture and registration venue near Durham City, exploring the experiences of people connected to the Durham Light Infantry (DLI) and the wider effects of war on the home front.

The temporary exhibition brings together objects, documents and photographs from The Story’s collections, alongside items on loan from Ben Uri Gallery and Museum, Kirkleatham Museum and Beamish, The Living Museum of the North.

Among the exhibits are a German artillery shell recovered after a submarine bombardment at Seaham Harbour during the First World War; a wedding dress made from parachute silk and worn by RAF officer Mary Dawson in 1943; and artworks depicting the Nuremberg Trials of 1946 by official war artist Dame Laura Knight.

There is also a notebook kept by Alice Sharp, wife of Archibald Dobbie Sharp, 2nd Battalion DLI, recording news of his service from his enlistment in February 1917 to his death in September 1918.

Visitors can also view diaries, postcards, medals and personal belongings that offer an insight into the experiences of ordinary people during times of conflict.

Councillor Karen Allison, Durham County Council’s cabinet member for leisure, tourism, regeneration and high street, said: “War is more than a series of military conflicts in distant lands; its impact extends into the very heart of our communities. 

“In this exhibition, we have set out to show how war has shaped the people and landscapes of County Durham.

“It’s about telling the stories of everyday people, from shining a light on extraordinary acts of bravery to delving into the romances that blossomed, the friendships forged and the losses that devastated so many families.

“It is also an opportunity to remember the sacrifices of the DLI and other members of the Armed Forces who have fought to defend the freedoms we enjoy today.”

Running until January 2027, the exhibition forms part of The Story’s wider role as home to the DLI Collection and Archive, alongside collections and records charting more than 900 years of County Durham history.

The Story is open every day and entry is free.

To find out more, visit www.thestorydurham.org and follow @TheStoryDurham on Facebook.

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