Lord Ashcroft's Medal Collection Finds New Home at the National Army Museum

A Historic Collection Relocates to the National Army Museum

In a significant step for military history, Lord Ashcroft's world-renowned collection of Victoria and George Crosses has found a new sanctuary at the National Army Museum in London. Celebrated for being the largest assemblage of its kind globally, the collection is a treasure trove of bravery and sacrifice, encapsulating extraordinary stories from various wars and conflicts over the last two centuries.

Previously housed at the Imperial War Museum, the collection was removed when the Lord Ashcroft Gallery was closed down in September last year after 15 years of showcasing the medals. Now, the collection is set to be exhibited in its new home, a venue deemed fitting for such a prestigious assortment of gallantry.

Lord Ashcroft, a prominent British businessman and philanthropist, expressed his elation upon unveiling the news of the collection's relocation. “I am truly delighted to have found such a magnificent place for this unique collection of bravery medals. It fills me with great pleasure that these Victoria Crosses and decorations from the Order of the British Empire, covering numerous pivotal wars and conflicts, will once again be accessible to the public,” he stated.

The National Army Museum not only shares Lord Ashcroft's passion for these decorations but is also dedicated to narrating the remarkable tales of bravery that accompany them. Justin Maciejewski, director of the museum, remarked, “It is a true honor for us to be entrusted with these Victorian Medals and Decorations from the Lord Ashcroft Medal Collection. We are grateful to Lord Ashcroft for his ongoing generosity and commitment to preserving and advocating these extraordinary stories of valor.”

The medals will not be confined to a single display but rather integrated into the museum’s existing narrative about the history and legacy of soldiers through the ages. Chris Finney, a trustee and president of the VC and GC Association, highlighted the immense historical significance, stating, “This rare and extensive collection embodies centuries of military service, sacrifice, and extraordinary courage across our armed forces.”

Lord Ashcroft's journey into medal collecting began in 1986 when he purchased a single set of medals at an auction. The Victoria Cross, established by Queen Victoria in 1856, stands as the highest award for valor in the face of the enemy in the British Commonwealth. Meanwhile, the George Cross, created by King George VI in 1940, is awarded for extraordinary bravery not in the presence of an enemy, shining a spotlight on acts of valor by civilians and military alike.

The collection proudly includes one of the only three Victoria Crosses with Bars, awarded to Captain Noel Chavasse, a medical officer who served during World War I and epitomizes the spirit of sacrifice. After the previous gallery's closure, Lord Ashcroft has made his collection available online through dedicated websites, allowing broader access. With this new partnership with the National Army Museum, visitors will now have the opportunity to see these medals in person and engage with the incredible stories they represent.

The National Army Museum plans to exhibit Lord Ashcroft's collection for the next two years, with some medals featured from July in temporary exhibitions. As a central institution for the history and heritage of the army, the museum will showcase items from the Lord Ashcroft Medal Collection alongside its well-established collections, detailing stories of heroism and sacrifice and tracing the origins of the Victoria Cross from the Crimean War to modern engagements.

In addition to the exhibition, the museum aims to introduce educational programs, guided tours, and digital content that further explore the bravery underlying each medal. Details of the collaboration will be disclosed in the upcoming months as preparations for the exhibitions unfold.

This transition not only enriches the museum's offerings but also serves to inspire future generations through the stories of heroism encapsulated within Lord Ashcroft's distinguished collection.