IT’S called falling down a rabbit hole. Trust me, it’s not a painful experience. In fact, it can be very educational.
Of course, I’ve not fallen down an actual rabbit hole. I’ve just tripped into a virtual one, courtesy of the internet.
The latest tumble followed a friendly push by Kidwelly historian Graham Emmanuel.
It all started when I stumbled across a web page called ‘World War Two and Other Aircraft Crash Sites South Wales’.
The rest, as they say, is history . . . lots of it!
Thanks to Graham, I discovered a website called People’s Collection Wales.
Look it up online, but make yourself a cup of tea first and tell the family you may be gone for an hour or two, as it’s a gigantic rabbit hole.
People’s Collection Wales is a free website dedicated to bringing together Welsh heritage. It is full of fascinating photographs, documents, audio and video recordings and stories that link to the history, culture and people of Wales.
The items on the site have been contributed by national institutions and individuals, local community groups and small museums, archives and libraries.
The site’s mission statement is simple – ‘We’re passionate about celebrating Wales’s culture and heritage and believe everyone has a piece of the jigsaw that tells the story of Wales, be it a memory, a letter, an old photograph or recording.
‘We want to capture and share these often untold stories on our website for future generations to enjoy.’
Established in 2010, People’s Collection Wales is funded by the Welsh Government, with the three leading partners organisations – Amgueddfa Cymru National Museum Wales, National Library of Wales and the Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Wales.
Graham Emmanuel is a major contributor to the website and you can find his stories, photos and research simply by searching his name on People’s Collection Wales.
Graham’s research journey started from a personal tragedy.
In June, 2015, his wife Linda visited her doctor complaining of a headache. She was diagnosed with a terminal brain tumour. Four weeks later, Linda died, aged 52.
Before she died, she instructed Graham live a full life and to travel. Still grieving, Graham took up the challenge.
Graham recalled: “From travelling, I got to be proficient at map-making and then I got into research into my family history and history in general.”
His interactive map of ‘World War Two and Other Aircraft Crash Sites South Wales’ started by researching a plane crash at Penrhyn Farm near Pwll, Llanelli.
Graham documented the fatal Martin B-26 Marauder crash on June 4, 1943. At the time, the weather ceiling and visibility were both zero.
The aircraft, named Mi Laine, flew into a hay barn at Penrhyn Farm and exploded.
The crew members who perished were – Lt John Reiss, pilot; Lt Eugene Carby, navigator, Sgt Raymond Shoemaker, engineer, and Lt William Shoop, passenger.
That initial research led Graham into producing his interactive map detailing other crash sites in south Wales. It also led to an essay on People’s Collection Wales, called ‘Wings of War: Exploring the Legacy of Aircraft Crashes in Wales’.
Graham explained: “It delves into the poignant history of aircraft crashes across Wales, offering a detailed examination of the events and the aircraft involved.
“The article provides a thorough account of each crash, including the circumstances, outcomes, and the technical details of the aircraft that met their tragic end.
“The document not only recounts the history of these crashes but also includes comprehensive technical profiles of the involved aircraft.
“For those interested in a more interactive experience, the front-page features links to an interactive Google My Map, which visually represents the crash sites. This map allows readers to explore the locations and understand the geographical context of each event.
“Additionally, the article provides links to memorials dedicated to the service members who lost their lives, honouring their memory and service.
“As part of the People’s Collection of Wales, this article serves as both a historical resource and a tribute, ensuring that the legacy of these aircraft and the stories of their crews are preserved and remembered.”
Graham has also created a Virtual Cemetery to honour the servicemen who died in crashes.
Graham added: “I’ve been on one hell of a journey since Linda died. I think she has been keeping me busy!
“I have written a book about her, called One Special Woman, which is in the People’s Collection. Along the way, I’ve met grief counsellors, and I let them share it with those who are struggling.”
Thanks to Graham, I now know a lot more about World War Two history – and I’ve enjoyed many a happy hour on other diversions down the People’s Collection Wales website.
For example, a little burrowing has allowed me to find out more about The Blind Fisherman of Mumbles, experience the ‘soundscape’ of life on Western Slade Farm Gower, discover a Hampshire folk song called Swansea Town, check out old photos of Gnoll House, Neath, and view the archive of vessels visiting Port Talbot Docks.
As internet rabbit holes go, the People’s Collection Wales may have to come with a health warning: this site is seriously addictive!
You can find People’s Collection Wales at – https://www.peoplescollection.wales
Twitter: @rlloydpr
Email: robertlloydpr@rlloydpr.co.uk
Leave a Reply