November 14, 2014

November 15th 2014 to November 1st 2015

Location: Chartwell, Westerham, Kent
churchill funeral0022
The Death of a Hero exhibit at Chartwell includes a number of never-before-seen-items from personal family mementoes to commemorative gifts. Split into five themes, the exhibition at Chartwell offers you a unique insight into the passing of one the most-loved statesmen in history.

Churchill’s Passing

Looking at the last moments of his life and the fateful day itself, the cabinet reflects a man still very much active in politics and seemingly reluctant to retire. Documents also demonstrate the plans and systems that were already in place several years before Churchill passed away. The last ever photo taken of Churchill also offers a humbling and personal view of the great man.

The Aftermath

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The case discusses the international reaction following Churchill’s passing with items like the flag that flew over Washington the day it was announced and the Resolution of Sorrow from the US Senate. Newspapers from the day also offer an insight into the reaction of the media and that of the world beyond with regards to the death of the wartime leader and to the days preceding his funeral.

The Funeral

The State Funeral took place on 30 January, after 3 days Lying in State. The cabinet reflects the day itself, from the order of service to sketches of the funeral. The painting, Westward to Bladon, by Wilfred Morden, completed the year after the funeral depicts the barge Havengore carrying the coffin along the Thames with the iconic lowering of the cranes in the background. Also on display are the spurs gifted by Lady Churchill as a thank you to the Duke of Norfolk who, as Earl Marshal organised the State Funeral.

So humbled was Lady Churchill on the day the world mourned, that she remarked to her daughter afterwards ‘It wasn’t a funeral – it was a triumph’. 

His Legacy

The cabinet features Churchill’s his accolades and accomplishments that we remember him for, featuring his work as a painter, writer, orator and politician. Look out for the Remington noiseless typewriter, which Churchill had for his secretaries to use so he could dictate without any distraction. Another touching item is the photograph taken on V.E. Day where Churchill stands humbled on the balcony of Buckingham Palace alongside the Royal Family where he was greeted with rapturous applause. The photograph is signed by King George VI, Queen Elizabeth, Princess Elizabeth (the future Queen Elizabeth II) and her sister Princess Margaret.

Remembering Him

Following the ceremony there were countless iconographic items and commemorative objects created in memory of Churchill. From the 1965 commemorative crown coin, the tobacco pipe, plates, vases and even commemorative biscuit tin on display in the case, everyone could have a piece of memorabilia in their homes. The first of the new plastic £5 notes to be made for 2016, depicting the famous Karsh photo portrait of Churchill, demonstrates the devotion, admiration and respect we still hold for Churchill and will for future generations.

Visit The National Trust website for further details. 

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