The National Holocaust Centre and Museum was the brainchild of Stephen and James Smith and their mother, Marina. They are a Christian family. In 1991, they visited Yad Vashem, Israel’s National Museum. On returning to the UK, they had decided that the events of the Holocaust should be made known to as many people as possible.
After many years of fundraising, the Beth Shalom (House of Peace) was created in what was once their family home.
It is such an inspirational place and holds two permanent exhibitions, a memorial and reflective space and beautiful landscaped gardens.
On arrival, we were all served refreshments and were then shown a short film on the Holocaust, which was very emotional. Then we were introduced to a survivor of the Holocaust. He was a retired surgeon and spoke about how he and his sister survived the gas chamber.
All in all, a very necessary, thought-provoking, emotional and humbling day. Although the facts and exhibition were difficult to accept, one felt better for having this piece of history laid bare.
After our visit, we went to The Fox for lunch, where we were warmly welcomed.
Adrian and Judith Fletcher
A selection of photos from the visit
