Hi readers, it’s Emily, Kerry and William here writing again about the Wessex in 100 Objects project that we are involved in with Dorset Museum.
Last week we left you hanging, as to what we object we chose that would be part of the exhibition. The suspense is over! We decided to choose two object - an ink well and a cigarette case. Both are almost 100 years old, and yet still look like new. We found this incredible, but what most grabbed our attention was the story behind them.
They belonged to Herbert Morley Bird, from Dorset. Mr Bird was a soldier in World War I, but had to return home from war after losing a leg.
Despite this very traumatic experience and now having to live with this significant disability, when he got home he went back to his normal activities. He was soon back to work and became an active member in many community activities. The ink well was given to him when he retired from his job at the local bank. The cigarette case he received when he left a local dancing club.
The reason Mr Bird’s story resonated with us, was because he clearly had to overcome a lot of barriers, to be able to live the life he did after his war injury. We, as people with learning disabilities, also have to overcome a lot of barriers, to live independently and be included in community life.
We really admire Mr Bird’s determination and think his story can provide inspiration for lots of people who are living with disabilities today. We hope that you will take a look at the exhibition when it comes on, and have a look at our objects. We will let you know when it’s on!
The writers of the Our View column are supported in their editing by People First Dorset - a charity led and run by people with learning disabilities with support from staff
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