Origins of Recollections of War

Recollections of War was established in 2009, following a trip to the UK by its founder, John Shapland. During the visit, his godfather took him to an airshow at Duxford, which reignited his passion for WWII aircraft. He returned home with brochures and booklets of aviation prints and diecast plane models, and his wife Kathryn later purchased some of the items he admired.

Both of John’s parents served in WWII - his father in a parachute regiment and then the Seaforth Highlanders, and his mother in the Women’s Land Army. He also had other relatives who served in both World Wars. John has always been passionate about history. He grew up on a farm in Sussex, beneath the skies where the Battle of Britain was fought during WWII—land that still bore the scars of that conflict.

From Hobby to Historical Collection

The collection began with a focus on WWII aviation but has since expanded to cover all conflicts from the Boer War to the present day. The collection also includes all three military services (Army, Navy and Air Force) and those who served in auxiliary and home front roles.

This includes women who worked in munitions factories or as nurses in military and Red Cross hospitals, and people on the home front who raised money for charities supporting the war effort.

What began as two rooms has now grown to 9 rooms and a hangar, as well as a dedicated upstairs area for entertainment and refreshments.

Commemorating ANZAC Day

ANZAC Day is a special day for John and Kathryn. Each year, they attend local services to reflect on the sacrifices made by veterans and their families, past and present.

The spirit of ANZAC is also deeply embedded in the collection itself. Many artefacts are personal letters, postcards, diaries, and photographs, offering intimate glimpses into the lives of those who served.

Stories That Resonate

Among the most powerful items in the collection are those that carry personal stories. Letters sent home to loved ones reveal the emotional toll of war, often made more poignant by the knowledge that some never returned.

One story that deeply moved the team involves a special group of items donated by the daughter of WWII Australian nursing sister, Iole Harper. These include an oil-stained ward dress Iole was wearing when the ship on which she was being evacuated from Singapore was sunk in February 1942.

65 nurses were on the Vyner Brooke, but only 24 made it home – some having drowned, a group of 21 massacred on Radji Beach, and others succumbing to disease and malnutrition in prisoner of war camps prior to liberation at the end of the war.

A photo of the 24 nurses after liberation shows Iole wearing the dress which is on display. It is a very emotive piece which visibly moves their visitors.

Preserving the ANZAC Legacy

John and Kathryn’s mission is to preserve history and keep alive the stories and memories of the men and women who served. They believe it is important to remember those who came before us, noting that it is “gratifying to see the large numbers of families with young children attending ANZAC Day services”.

WA Seniors Card members can receive 20% off museum entry at Recollections of War, located in Youngs Siding, a small town within the City of Albany.

Visitors can take part in personalised tours of the collection, with stories shared throughout the experience. No prior knowledge of military history is required, as the collection focuses on social history and the experiences of people living during wartime.

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