Today was an in-town day. Bowness-on-Windermere is a major tourist center, and we decided to give it some time before heading on to Ulverston and the beginning of the Cumbria Way. Saw two exhibits, one fascinating, one charming.
“Auschwitz to Ambleside” was a display in the local library about 400 children released from German prison camps with no place to go. A major war-related factory and worker housing complex near Windermere was not in use, the war being over, so the complex was opened to the children. They arrived with no experience of normal, everyday life. They were cared for, schooled, and introduced to clean clothes, toys, games, and the experience of walking around freely. By the end of about 2 years, they had become well enough adapted to move on to other centers or to foster homes. There was a video of 4 of the children, now elderly people, telling what it was like to suddenly step into freedom. It was very moving.
“The World of Beatrix Potter” was a delightful walk-through wonderland of Potter characters and creatures, along with short descriptions of how the stories came to be. What an amazing world she created. By the way, if you haven’t seen the movie, “Miss Potter,” we recommend it.
Later in the day we boarded a bus to Ulverston, to commence the next leg of our adventure. In the B&B were our long time walking buddies Barb and Sheila. It was so good to see them! The five of us went down to the parlor/dining room of Virginia House, our guesthouse, and shared tea, memories, and excitement about the 10 days we’re going to share on the Cumbria Way.
“Auschwitz to Ambleside” was a display in the local library about 400 children released from German prison camps with no place to go. A major war-related factory and worker housing complex near Windermere was not in use, the war being over, so the complex was opened to the children. They arrived with no experience of normal, everyday life. They were cared for, schooled, and introduced to clean clothes, toys, games, and the experience of walking around freely. By the end of about 2 years, they had become well enough adapted to move on to other centers or to foster homes. There was a video of 4 of the children, now elderly people, telling what it was like to suddenly step into freedom. It was very moving.
“The World of Beatrix Potter” was a delightful walk-through wonderland of Potter characters and creatures, along with short descriptions of how the stories came to be. What an amazing world she created. By the way, if you haven’t seen the movie, “Miss Potter,” we recommend it.
Later in the day we boarded a bus to Ulverston, to commence the next leg of our adventure. In the B&B were our long time walking buddies Barb and Sheila. It was so good to see them! The five of us went down to the parlor/dining room of Virginia House, our guesthouse, and shared tea, memories, and excitement about the 10 days we’re going to share on the Cumbria Way.
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