The Green Howards Museum together with the Northern Region of the Donkey Breed Society hosted a craft workshop on Saturday 22nd February. This was part of a captivating new special exhibition titled “Animal Allies: Discover the Silent Partners of the Armed Forces,” currently running at The Museum until December 2025.
Visitors were invited to decorate little glass tealight holders and take their work home complete with a small ‘candle’ to be lit on Monday 24th February, which was International War Animal Day. This simple act of remembrance shining a light on the sacrifices made by an estimated 16 million animals in World War I alone. Organisers said that it gave them a lovely opportunity to talk to visitors to the Museum about Monday’s important worldwide event.
International War Animal Day is observed in Australia, New Zealand, France, Canada, Great Britain and America each year on 24th February. It asks us to stop and remember the horses, donkeys, mules, dogs, pigeons and other animals that have sacrificed their lives, for us, in wars past and in more recent conflicts. The Exhibition explores the diverse ways in which animals have been integral to military operations, uncovering the remarkable roles that they have played throughout history.
Visitors are also enjoying the beautiful ‘The Richmond Poppies’ – a cascade of crocheted purple poppies crafted by a group of makers from Richmond, North Yorkshire on loan from the Donkey Breed Society. These delicate yet powerful symbols serve as a reminder of the sacrifices made by both human and animal participants. Sarah Booth from the Donkey Breed Society (Northern Region) said, “this year we are incorporating grey poppies into our display to commemorate non-commissioned and commissioned farriers that supported the serving equines. They played such a vital role and we need to commemorate all that they did, often in horrendously challenging circumstances.”
The Museum’s Exhibition is full of interesting stories, providing a captivating and enlightening experience, shedding light on the companionship during service and the bonds between humans and animals. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the unique lives of military pets and gain a newfound respect for those that have played such a vital role throughout history and today.
A spokesperson from The Green Howards Museum said, “we are so pleased to be commemorating International War Animal Day with the Donkey Breed Society.”