On Saturday, July 27th, the Redline Home Guard gave visitors the unique opportunity to step back in time by hosting a Pillbox Open Day event at Gatehampton Pillbox, part of Stop Line Red. The day offered an immersive glimpse into the 1940s wartime experience.
The pillbox was set up to reflect its original wartime condition, lit by candlelight, complete with two Bren guns stationed inside, providing a tangible connection to the past. Outside, under the railway viaduct, a small field station was established, showcasing the vital support roles that operated alongside these defensive structures, complete with a lesson in essential German phrases for the Home Guard and a field telephone system linking the field station and pillbox.
Visitors were captivated by the authenticity and detail of the displays, gaining a deeper appreciation for the history and strategic importance of Stop Line Red during World War II. The event was a fantastic success, bringing history to life and honouring the legacy of those who defended the home front, with over 150 visitors stopping by to look inside the box and chat to our group.
The Redline Home Guard will be having further Pillbox Open Days at Gatehampton Pillbox in the future, don’t miss future events to experience more living history.
No responses yet