VE Day and VJ Day Exhibit Launched at Newry and Mourne Museum

This year marks the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War, with Victory in Europe Day and Victory over Japan Day. Chairperson of Newry, Mourne and Down District Councillor Pete Byrne officially launched the exhibit of two Second World War artefacts and costumes at Newry and Mourne Museum which were used and worn by local men.

On display is a US Army 563rd Motor Ambulance Company Blouse and Cap c1943 worn by Private First-Class James Quinn, originally from Tullyframe near Kilkeel. After emigrating to America, he served as an ambulance driver and mechanic with the US Army from 1943 to 1945 before returning to live in Kilkeel in 1950.

Visitors to the exhibit can see a suit made by Burton’s 1940s. Known as a demob suit, civilian clothing was issued to servicemen after their demobilisation from serving in the British armed forces. The outfit included: a felt hat or flat cap, a double-breasted 3-piece suit or a single-breasted jacket and trousers, two shirts and collars, a tie, shoes and a raincoat. Gloves, underwear and socks were also available, and men were given a special allocation of clothing coupons to buy any extra items they might need, as well as an extra cigarette ration, and a one-way rail warrant/ticket.

At the launch of the new display, Chairperson of Newry, Mourne and Down District Councillor Pete Byrne Councillor Byrne said, “the artefacts on display are a reminder that people from this area played significant roles during the Second World War at home and abroad and that life after the war was a challenging time for them as they adjusted back into civilian life.” 

As well as the suits visitors can browse through the collection of mid-20th century collars, a clothing ration book, receipts from 1934 and 1945 from two gentlemen’s outfitters in Newry and a commemorative handbell which was made by the Buckinghamshire Die-Casting Co using aluminum alloy from a German aircraft which shot down during the Battle of Britain.

The VE Day and VJ Day Exhibit is currently on display at Newry and Mourne Museum until November. The museum is open to the public from Tuesday – Saturday and from 10am – 4.30pm and admission is free. For more information phone 0330 137 4422.