100 years ago, the area around Slonk Hill was home to 100,000 soldiers preparing to take part in one of the most devastating wars ever seen. Yet, within a few years of First World War’s cease-fire being called, the army camp – which stretched from Mill Hill to Slonk Hill and down to Old Shoreham Road – had all but passed into memory.
Following painstaking research, the full history of the camp has been revealed through the ‘Training For War’ project, and is being commemorated with a special information board in Buckingham Park. There will be a short ceremony in the park at 11am on Wednesday 16th March, hosted by the Chairman of Adur District Council, Carson Albury, and the Mayor of Worthing, Michael Donin.
Members of the public are welcome to attend to celebrate the completion of the project and the wealth of information that it has contributed to history.
Since 2014, Training For War has brought together a unique partnership of Worthing College students, local volunteers and curators from Worthing Museum, all supported by a Heritage Lottery grant, to dig through archives and fields in search of the truth of the Shoreham encampment. Whether uncovering proof of the camp’s truly international flavour (soldiers came from as far away as South Africa and Canada), proving the presence of a very special type of horse (thanks to a shoe only used by gun carriage carriers) or teaching students about life on the front lines, Training For War has made a significant contribution to Sussex history.
Councillor Carson Albury, Chairman of Adur District Council, says:
“It has been fascinating to see Training For War unfolding; everyone involved has put so much energy into this project since the very beginning and it’s really taught us all so much about our local history.
“As well as all of the work on site, the team have unearthed some amazing press articles and publications about life in the Army camp, turning it from distant history into stories which we can all relate to.”
Mayor of Worthing, Councillor Michael Donin, adds:
“It has been a privilege to watch the project progress and it’s a great example of how our students, volunteers and professional curators can really come together to make something happen.
“There have been many opportunities to stop and celebrate – or marvel – over the last two years, and installing this special information board in Buckingham Park will ensure that many more people get the chance to do so in the future.
“As a Canadian I am extremely proud of the contribution and sacrifice made by my fellow Canadians in the Great War. Canada has always answered the call for help from the Mother Country.”
More information about Training For War project, including behind the scenes photographs and video, can be seen online – www.ShorehamWW1camp.org.
