In a corner of Wales, a precious piece of history from World War II stands tall, preserved by a dedicated group of volunteers. Located on the outskirts of Bridgend, Island Farm Camp has a remarkable story to tell. Initially constructed as a hostel for workers at Bridgend’s munitions factories during the war, it later served as billets for American troops preparing for the D-Day invasion before transforming into a Prisoner of War camp known as Camp 198.
The year 1944 marked a significant event at Camp 198, as over 1,600 German PoWs arrived at the site. However, in March 1945, the camp gained notoriety when 70 German soldiers orchestrated the largest escape of war prisoners in Britain. Through a tunnel they had painstakingly dug, the soldiers made a daring bid for freedom. While many were captured shortly after, some managed to evade capture, reaching cities like Swansea, Southampton, and Birmingham.
Following the escape attempt, the remaining inmates were relocated, and Island Farm was re-designated as Special Camp 11, housing high-ranking German officers. Despite much of the site being demolished in the 1990s, the hut from which the audacious escape was launched still stands today. The Hut 9 Preservation Group, composed of passionate volunteers, works tirelessly to conserve this piece of history and showcase its remarkable heritage.
The volunteers organise regular open days at the site, offering visitors a glimpse into the past through exhibitions, talks, and artefacts. Their efforts have led to the establishment of a visitor centre on-site, creating a space where the extraordinary history of Island Farm is brought to life. Looking to the future, the Hut 9 Preservation Group is actively seeking funding to ensure the long-term survival of this historical gem that not only connects Wales to the world but serves as a testament to human resilience during challenging times.
The story of Island Farm Camp serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices and struggles endured during World War II, highlighting the resilience and determination of those caught in the midst of conflict. It is a testament to the human spirit and an invaluable piece of history that deserves to be preserved for generations to come.
As visitors step onto the grounds of Island Farm, they are transported back in time to a period filled with uncertainty and courage. The Hut 9 Preservation Group, led by passionate individuals like Wayne Gill, Clive Blackshaw, and chairman Brett Exton, is committed to ensuring that the legacy of Camp 198 lives on, inspiring future generations to remember and honour the past.
Through their dedication and hard work, the volunteers have created a space where the stories of bravery, resilience, and camaraderie from World War II are kept alive. The artefacts, photographs, and recreated scenes at the Hut 9 visitor centre offer a glimpse into the challenges faced and the triumphs achieved at Island Farm Camp, making it a site of historical significance that resonates with visitors from across the globe.
In the lush landscape of Wales, amidst the rolling hills and tranquil valleys, Island Farm Camp stands as a beacon of remembrance and education, a place where the echoes of the past reverberate through time. The preservation efforts of the Hut 9 Preservation Group ensure that the legacy of Camp 198 endures, serving as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made and the stories untold during one of the darkest periods in history.