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About
About
Great War Huts is a unique heritage project located in the heart of Suffolk, dedicated to restoring and preserving original First World War wooden buildings. These historic structures, which once served as vital spaces during the war, are being carefully restored to ensure that future generations can experience a tangible connection to this pivotal period in history.
In addition to the restoration work, Great War Huts is home to a large collection of First World War artefacts. These objects provide an invaluable insight into the everyday lives of soldiers, families, and communities affected by the war. From uniforms and equipment to personal letters and wartime memorabilia, the collection brings the past to life and offers a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made during the conflict.
Although still in the process of fully opening its doors to the public, Great War Huts regularly hosts a variety of events throughout the year. These events, ranging from educational workshops to commemorative gatherings, allow visitors to engage with history in meaningful ways.
The project’s ongoing work is already making waves in the local community, fostering a deeper understanding of the First World War and its enduring impact.
Great War Huts isn’t just about restoring buildings and collecting artefacts; it’s about telling the stories of those who lived through the war, and ensuring that their experiences are not forgotten. Through its dedication to both conservation and education, Great War Huts is helping to keep the memory of the First World War alive for generations to come.
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Kev Smith, Co-founder
Kev Smith's journey is a testament to his unwavering passion for both engineering and history. Beginning his career as an aircraft engineer at Marshall Aerospace, based at Cambridge Airport, Kev quickly established himself as a meticulous and innovative problem-solver. His time at Marshalls honed his skills in precision engineering and project management, laying the foundation for his future endeavors.
Kev was also a founder member of Duxford Aviation Society in the 1970s, and was member number 19.
Driven by a desire to explore different facets of engineering, Kev moved to a rather different, but equally challenging, environment at Chivers' Jam factory at Histon.
However, it was Kev's deep-rooted interest in First World War history that ultimately led him to his current role as Chief Hut Builder at Great War Huts.
Entrusted with the delicate task of dismantling and restoring First World War temporary buildings, which are now well over a century old, Kev found himself at the intersection of his two greatest passions: engineering and history.
Kev meticulously examines each hut, preserving its historical integrity while employing his engineering expertise to ensure its structural longevity.
His work is not merely about rebuilding huts; it's about preserving the memories of those who lived in them, while saving these tangible pieces of history for future generations.
Kev has an incredible knowledge of all types of aircraft, as well as an in-depth knowledge of the history of The Great War. He has an exceptional collection of First World War items of uniforms, equipment and, in particular, ordnance.
Taff Gillingham, Co-founder
Taff is a military historian specialising in the British and Commonwealth soldier, 1899-1960. Since the mid-1990’s, he has been the historical advisor and production historian for many film, television and theatre productions.
Taff’s interest in military history stretches back to his schooldays, when he started collecting militaria and was lucky enough to meet plenty of veterans. During his teens, his interest intensified, and in his early 20s, he joined the Association for Military Remembrance, aka The Khaki Chums.
Before co-founding Khaki Devil, Taff worked for a number of years for production companies, gaining an understanding of how television works. A chance meeting with author William Boyd at the National Army Museum, resulted in a new career as a military historical advisor.
Following a number of successful high profile productions, Taff founded Khaki Devil, along with Kev Smith, in 2001. The company supplies military uniforms, equipment, weapons, props, historical advice, specialist extras and locations. This soon proved popular with producers and directors keen to source as many services as possible from one place. A purpose-built trench location soon followed which saw productions such as Downton Abbey Series 2, the Sainsbury’s Christmas Truce advert and the 2018 film Journey’s End being filmed here in Suffolk, along with many others.
A dedication to historical accuracy runs through all of his work, alongside a commitment to faithfully represent those British and Commonwealth veterans who can no longer speak for themselves. Taff often appears on television documentaries and a regular contributor to Radio 5 Live, BBC Radio Suffolk and BBC Radio Wales.
For many years, Taff was a trustee of the Suffolk Regiment Museum, and is currently Hon. Secretary of the Ipswich and District Suffolk Regiment Old Comrades, and Chairman of the Friends of the Suffolk Regiment. He has also been Chairman of the Suffolk branch of the Western Front Association but now dedicated most of his time to Great War Huts.
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About
Lyndsay Knight, Events & Biscuit Expert
Lyndsay is a dedicated heritage professional with a strong background in galleries, museums, and art and design. With a passion for preserving and celebrating history, she has been instrumental in the organisation of several high-profile national events for the Department for Culture, Media & Sport, including the centenary of the First World War and the national service of Remembrance. These key events have allowed her to merge her love for history with her commitment to public engagement, ensuring that these important moments are remembered and commemorated across the UK.
Lyndsay is currently working with Historic England on Heritage Policy, where she continues to play a key role in the heritage sector. Before this, she was a trustee at Norwich Printing Museum.
At Great War Huts, Lyndsay is responsible for curating the events programme, overseeing the website and social media, and managing all design work — including their unique 3D business card
Outside of her professional life, Lyndsay is a keen enthusiast of biscuits (a passion that has yet to meet its match). She works as a freelance illustrator and designer, and often spends her free time creating new works of art. She is also the proud guardian of a three-legged tortoise, Tort, who keeps Lyndsay in line and enjoys sitting on her feet whilst she's working.
You’re most likely to find Lyndsay indulging in her favourite biscuits at Great War Huts, where her enthusiasm for both history, huts and biscuits combine her favourite things.