An Amazing Insight into the History of the Royal Norfolk Regiment

One of the many benefits of being a Norwich Community History Club member comes from our excellent relationship with the Norfolk Museum Service. This was in evidence once again during a recent visit to Norwich Castle Museum when we were given expert insight into the history of the Royal Norfolk Regiment by curator, Kate Thaxton and WW1 Centenary Trainee, Rachel Willis. 

Curator, Kate Thaxton, talking to some of the club members 

Dividing the group in half, Kate led a fascinating tour of the newly displayed galleries located in the Castle Museum rotunda gallery. Members felt a real sense of privilege to listen to her talking about the regiment's history with such eloquence and authority. Kate also explained the thinking behind the re-display, explaining that it was focused on the stories of people associated with the regiment. 

Rachel Willis sharing regimental archival material with club
members

In the meantime, Rachel took people to the Shirehall Study room - an adventure in itself, for those who had never been behind the scenes and walked through the modern tunnel linking museum to Shirehall. Once settled into the room, members were fascinated to look at archival material connected with the Royal Norfolk Regiment. One of the many things that caught my eye and imagination was the list of ailments from the Norfolk Regiment's Casualty Book (excerpt pictured below).

The Dohbi Itch is just one of an amazing list of potential conditions a soldier might experience.

On behalf of all of the History Club members I would like to thank Kate and Rachel for their warm welcome and fascinating insight into the life of the regiment. This is especially appreciated as they responded at very late notice to a request from us to do this visit. Thanks!