Conflict and the City
This section contains stories about various conflicts that affected Hull. The major ones of the last century were the First and Second World Wars. First World War stories tell of the Local East Yorkshire Regiment which had 19 battalions including the 'Pals'. Hull suffered from extensive bombing in both wars, even by Zeppelins. Wartime rationing meant that people had to 'make do' even when it came to clothing. Read how fashion was shaped by it. However, conflict was not just a modern phenomenon in Hull. There are pictures and tales of Hull's early fortifications and guns.
The East Yorkshire Regiment: From the West Indies to the Western Front
The East Yorkshire Regiment was formed on 1685 and has taken part on some of Britain's most famous wars and battles. Read about their colourful history from how they gained their nickname 'The Snappers' during the American War of Independence to their association with the experimental 'pals' battalions in the First World War and their involvement in D-Day during the Second World War.
Henry's Gun
Henry's Gun is a stave-built iron barrel and breech of a Tudor port piece, designed for close fighting against ships. Mounted on a modern wooden carriage, only four of its type survives worldwide.
1940s Fashion - Rationing and Making do
War time shortages had a big influence on fashion in the forties. Discover how the government introduced a clothing rationing system, which meant people had to 'make do and mend' with the clothes they already owned.
1940s Fashion - Hard times for fashion
War time shortages had a big influence on fashion in the forties. Discover the restrained and austere styles of the forties, looking at the main fashion features of the period.
The Hull Tapestry Project
The Hull Tapestry depicts, in colourful and varied stitch, the history and achievements of the city of Kingston upon Hull. The idea was first suggested in June 1990 and was approved by the City Council the following year and the designer Mrs Pat Mackrill was asked to consider possible scenes for inclusion in the panels.
R.38 Airship: Disaster Over the Humber
The R.38 promised to be the largest airship in the world. Budget cuts and time delays almost prevented her construction but with American backing she was finally completed in June 1921. After travelling from Cardington to Howden the plan was to hand her over to the Americans at Pulham in Norfolk. However, on a routine test flight disaster struck.
The Forgotten Blitz
The bombing raids on Hull during the Second World War are familiar but it is perhaps less well known that Hull was also subject to a series of bombing raids during the First World War. Read about how Hull and the surrounding area were subject to twelve raids from 1915-1918 and how the people of Hull became very familiar with the warnings of 'Big Lizzie'.
1640 Charles I visits Hull
In 1639 Charles I (1625-1649) visited Hull, whilst on a journey from London to York. During the 1630s Hull had become heavily fortified, with much ammunition stored there, because the King's relations with Scotland were deteriorating, and war seemed inevitable.
