After Armistice: dealing with the effects of war
As we commemorate the 101st Armistice Day, it's timely that we reflect on the aftermath of the First World War; not only the massive scale of loss, but also the ongoing suffering experienced by those who returned from the first industrialised war.
Arriving in back in Wellington, Colonel Evans pointedly reminded the soldiers of those left behind: “Remember,” he said, “When you go ashore you are not heroes. The heroes lie in France”. Having lost their comrades in the thousands, the soldiers hardly needed to be reminded of their 'luck' in making it through. Yet for those who survived, the physical and mental toll of the war was immense and for many unspeakable. Each service person confronted the psychological and emotional impact of a war unprecedented in its violence in their own personal way.
One soldier who suffered through his war service was Private Ivor Norman (Norm) Fleet 31249. A bushman who enlisted in Taumarunui, Fleet fought with the Wellington Infantry Regiment and received gunshot wounds to both legs during a clean-up operation at Bellevue Spur on 22 October 1917. His right leg was later amputated and he eventually returned to New Zealand where simply carried on with his life, marrying Elsie Petley in 1928, building his own house and forging a long and productive career. Norm rarely spoke of the war and relatives only recall seeing him in tears as his nephews left for the Second World War; a small clue to the pain that returned servicemen held inside. Like Norm, millions suffered silently in the aftermath. Today we honour their service and acknowledge the immeasurable suffering that came from it.
Lest we forget.
Find out more about Armistice Day and the Museum's collections here. www.aucklandmuseum.com...
Poll: Is it ok to regift something that you have been given?
🎁 Holiday Gift Chat!
Do you ever regift?
What’s your take on asking for a receipt if a gift doesn’t fit?
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79.2% Yes! It's better to regift what I don't need
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20.8% No. It's the thought and effort that matters
Kids Pottery workshops with artist Madison Cowper
Swap the usual routine for something a little more colourful. Join us at Franklin Arts Centre for a fun morning of creativity. Come, meet new friends and make and paint your very own pottery!
Suitable for ages 4 and up. No experience needed, just bring yourself and your imagination. Wear something you don't mind getting dirty. We’ll provide all the materials, easy guidance, and an open-hearted, supportive teaching environment to encourage you to make whatever you like! Participants will be shown how to make a mug, a bowl, a planter or a pet, but they are more than welcome to bring their own ideas.
🖌 What’s Included:
🌸 Clay and professional guidance
🎨 A wide range of tools, paints and brushes
🎶 A fun, supportive atmosphere with music and good vibes
You can take your unfired piece home, or leave it with us to be professionally fired and glazed for an additional $20. The additional fee can be paid with cash in person. The finished piece can be collected from FAC 2 months after the event.
Session 1 Monday 12th January
Session 2 Tuesday 13th January
10am -12pm
Wētā room, Franklin Arts Centre
To book:
Monday 12th Jan Session: www.eventfinda.co.nz...
Tuesday 13th January Session: www.eventfinda.co.nz...
Bloom Pukekohe Op Shop
And that's a wrap for 2025!!!
A huge thank you to all of our customers, volunteers and team who have supported us since we opened in February this year. We appreciate each and every one of you and wish you a safe and happy holiday season.
We will reopen on Wednesday 7th January, 9:30am.
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