The Imperial War Museum in London has made the decision to remove the world’s largest collection of Victoria Crosses from public view. This collection, housed in the Lord Ashcroft Gallery, features around 200 Victoria Crosses and a smaller number of George Crosses, which were loaned by billionaire businessman Lord Ashcroft in 2015. The museum plans to close the exhibition in June to make space for new exhibitions focusing on more recent conflicts.
Lord Ashcroft expressed his disappointment at the decision, stating that it saddens him to think that the remarkable record of bravery displayed in the medals will no longer be accessible to the public but instead kept in a secure vault. The museum, however, has assured that its own collection of medals will be displayed across its sites, integrated within galleries that narrate the full story of the conflicts where these acts of courage occurred.
The new exhibition space will be dedicated to exploring the past 80 years of conflicts post-Second World War, including events such as the Cold War, Falklands War, and wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. A museum spokesperson emphasized the importance of regularly updating galleries to share as much of the extensive collection with the public as possible.
The Victoria Cross and George Cross are esteemed recognitions of bravery in Britain, with the former being the highest military award for valor in the presence of the enemy, and the latter for gallantry not in the presence of an enemy. Since its establishment in 1856, only 1,358 Victoria Crosses have been awarded, symbolizing exceptional acts of courage and sacrifice.
The decision to overhaul the exhibition space reflects the museum’s commitment to showcasing a diverse range of historical narratives and ensuring that stories of bravery and sacrifice are shared with the public. While the closure of the Lord Ashcroft Gallery may disappoint visitors who have marveled at the heroic exploits depicted in the medals, the museum’s efforts to revamp its displays aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of the conflicts that have shaped modern history.
Through its continuous evolution and adaptation, the Imperial War Museum remains a vital institution in preserving and commemorating the legacies of those who have demonstrated extraordinary courage in defense of their nation. The shift towards exploring more recent conflicts underscores the museum’s dedication to honoring the sacrifices made by individuals throughout history, ensuring that their bravery is not forgotten but rather celebrated and remembered for generations to come.
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