War Horse: Fact & Fiction Exhibition

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by Bryony Harrison (subscribe)

Freelance writer and poet from London; if you would like to read my poetry, please check out my book, 'Poems on the Page', available from goo.gl/Ta4oAX.

Event: 22/10/2011 - 31/03/2013

Stories From History

'Joey', oil painting by Ali Bannister

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Until the 31st March 2013, you can visit the free War Horse: Fact & Fiction exhibition at The National Army Museum. As well as exploring the popular War Horse novel by Michael Morpurgo, you will also learn about the real-life stories of war horses and the men who depended on them.

Puppet from the play

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There will be exclusive content from Michael Morpurgo, with details on the inspiration behind the novel, the craftsmanship that went into creating the stage play, and how Spielberg's film adaptation came into fruition.

When war broke out in 1914 British Army had only 25,000 horses. New ones had to be supplied by civilians, and they all needed training. There were several roles the horses had to perform, and these included pulling canons, carts, and being out on the front line with the soldiers. Being out in No Man's Land was a horrible experience not only for the men, but also for the horses, who got caught up in the barbed wire, and suffered terrible wounds and infections. Many had to be shot.

Find out how the animals were transported, and the rigorous training the horses and soldiers went through with videos, and other interactive features. You will also learn about real horse heroes, such as Ronald, Sir Briggs, and Black Prince. They all have fascinating stories, and the exhibition tells them through left over relics such as hooves and hair.

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