The Trenchard Museum

Story

The Trenchard Museum is based at RAF Halton, Halton, Buckinghamshire, England. The overall aim of the museum is to preserve and display items that relate to the early history of Royal Air Force and in particular the training of apprentices which took place at RAF Halton. It is named after Lord Trenchard, who is known as the father of the Royal Air Force, founded the aircraft apprentice scheme, and had a strong association with RAF Halton. The museum was opened in 1999.Collection and activitiesThe collection celebrates the history of RAF Halton, the origins of which go back to 1913 when the Royal Flying Corps were given permission by the then owner Alfred de Rothschild to use his estate at Halton for practicing manoeuvres. There are important exhibits recounting the major contribution of Lord Trenchard to the founding and development of the RAF, some of which were originally housed in a small museum in his name at RAF Upavon. The museum also records the background to apprentice training at the Halton camp through examples of the tools, work and test pieces completed by apprentices, and the exploits of some of those who were trained there. The museum has two complete aircraft, many models of aircraft, a number of aero engines, weapons and other equipment on display. There are a large number of photographs, a mock up of barrack rooms, and the uniforms worn by those stationed at Halton Camp over the years. Aside from artefacts relating to engineering, there is also memorabilia relating to a wide range of other training, including catering, nursing and dentistry.