Save the date for Echoes of War: come and discover Elmbridge’s WWII stories

Elmbridge Museum is partnering with artist Emily Peasgood to create an innovative and immersive installation as part of its new ‘Echoes of War exhibition’, launching at the beginning of February 2026. 

‘Echoes of War’ is a heritage project that shares untold stories of local life on the Home Front during WWII. It is funded by the Department of Culture, Media and Sport via Museum Development Southeast as part of VE and VJ Day commemorations. 

Through hands-on workshops, creative sessions and a multi-sensory exhibition, it connects generations and celebrates the resilience of our community. 

What to expect as part of the exhibition: 

• The exhibition’s centrepiece will feature five dressed mannequins, each representing how members of our local community supported the war effort on the Home Front.
• A recreated WWII Morrison shelter with a twist: ‘Threaded Shelter’ by artist Emily Peasgood will include an innovative sound installation which, when touched, reveals local stories of life at home during WWII. The stories will be narrated by local schoolchildren from St Andrew’s School in Cobham and Elmbridge residents. The stitching used in the patchwork covering the shelter will be sewn by community members.
• Showcases with Home Front artefacts from the museum collection
• Free special family activity days on Saturday 7 and 21 February. 

Cllr Simon Waugh, Portfolio Holder for Leisure, Culture and Commercial Strategy, said: 

The Echoes of War exhibition brings Home Front stories to life through a powerful, immersive experience. It’s a true community project that celebrates Elmbridge’s resilience and keeps our heritage alive. We’re thrilled to work with Emily Peasgood, whose sound installations across the UK demonstrate her incredible talent for turning artistic vision into reality. I encourage you to visit this interactive exhibition and join the family activities on offer.

Artist Emily Peasgood said: 

“I was drawn to this commission for its focus on intergenerational engagement, oral histories, and domestic wartime experiences. My vision for ‘Threaded Shelter’ is an emotionally resonant installation that evokes remembrance and reflection through sound, touch and craft. Community involvement is central to the project: participants will contribute to the stitching, while children narrate wartime oral memories. This collaboration will revive forgotten stories from the museum’s collection, creating meaningful connections between participants, visitors and their local history.” 

Venue: Elmbridge Civic Centre, High Street, Esher KT10 9SD 
Date: 4 to 27 February 2026 
Opening hours: 9:30am to 4:30pm 
Free special activity days: Saturday 7 and 21 February, from 10:30am to 3:30pm, offering even more ways to get involved. 

Visit elmbridgemuseum.org.uk to find out more.