Cold War exhibition appeal for Dumfries gets off the ground

A new fundraising appeal has been launched by the Dumfries and Galloway Aviation Museum to establish a Cold War exhibition. The museum, manned by dedicated volunteers passionate about aviation history, aims to raise £10,000 for this ambitious project. Situated in the former control tower of the wartime RAF Dumfries at Heathhall, the museum has recently acquired a Westland Lynx AH7 helicopter, XZ222, from the School of Army Aeronautical Engineering at Lyneham to be part of the new exhibit.

The museum has already secured support from various organisations like RAF Heritage for the acquisition of the helicopter and has obtained funding to kickstart the building process. However, additional funds are needed to fully realise the Cold War exhibition. The exhibition will not only showcase military aircraft but also highlight the roles of the Royal Observer Corps and Civil Defence during the Cold War era. It aims to educate visitors on the impact of historical events like the Cuban Missile Crisis and the fall of the Berlin Wall.

The proposed building will house a unique display in Scotland, focusing on aviation history during the Cold War period. The museum expresses gratitude to supporters such as Lawson’s Haulage, WMB Haulage, RAF Heritage, and the School of Army Aeronautical Engineering for their contributions. They also encourage individuals with photos of the Westland Lynx AH7 in service to come forward.

With plans for informative displays, new exhibits, and engaging storytelling, the Dumfries and Galloway Aviation Museum hopes to create an exhibition that resonates with a wide audience. The museum invites the public to support their initiative to preserve and communicate the important history of the Cold War era for future generations.

In summary, the Dumfries and Galloway Aviation Museum is embarking on a fundraising drive to establish a Cold War exhibition, with the acquisition of a Westland Lynx AH7 helicopter as a key centerpiece. The museum aims to educate and engage visitors on the historical significance of the Cold War period, highlighting military and civilian roles during that time. Support from various organisations has kickstarted the project, but additional funding is required to complete the exhibition and create an immersive experience for visitors.