No 15. Free French Camp
Date: 2nd World War
Why is it important: The French had a military camp in Emsworth.
In August 1942, the Free French Navy took possession of a military camp in North Emsworth on Southfields Road, Emsworth.
The camp was named Bir Hakeim after a resolute action by the Free French to delay Rommel’s advance in a Libyan oasis of the same name. This action is also commemorated by the Bir Hakeim Metro station in Paris which is where you would alight for the Eiffel Tower.
The uniform was gifted to the Museum by Paul Desgris the son of Kleber Desgris. While he was in Emsworth, Kleber met and married an Emsworth girl. The backdrop of the cabinet shows scenes from the camp – including some impressive wine barrels.
In September, General De Gaulle visited the camp. In the same month, Cardinal Hinsley came to the camp to consecrate the Roman Catholic Chapel.
Find more information on the swing panels numbers 2 and 3 North Wall Swing Board. View the uniform in the cabinet on the west wall nearby.