Northern Enterprise Awards 2023

Established over 30 years ago, Eden Camp Modern History Museum is a family-owned and operated business located in North Yorkshire. The prisoner of war camp was originally built on the outskirts of Malton in 1942 by a small group of army personnel who had travelled from Castle Douglas in Scotland. It was their objective to construct a temporary camp to hold Italian prisoners of war that had been captured by Allied forces in North Africa. Its first residents were 250 Italian prisoners who helped build a larger, permanent camp. Eden Camp would grow to encompass 45 huts and a large area of tented accommodation capable of housing around 1200 prisoners. In the summer of 1944, Italian prisoners gave way to German POWs with the successful Allied invasion of Normandy. The prisoners were put to work locally in agriculture and lived at Eden Camp until 1948 when they were released. With its combination of traditional displays and interactive experiences, Eden Camp brings history to life for the next generation. The museum provides multi-sensory displays, live demonstrations, and immersive events on military history and the Home Front. The experience is family-oriented, offering an engaging and educational day out for the whole family. For many years, the museum has provided valuable insight into the history and lives of people during World War II. Eden Camp prides itself on acting on feedback to provide the best possible visitor experience for young people. The museum continues to grow, creating new fun experiences for families, schoolchildren, and veterans alike. Eden Camp’s impressive archive contains many original and rare items of local and national significance. Amongst the museum’s volunteers, many have personal experience in military history and help to reimagine live demonstrations, activities, and stories. Visitors learn through handson experiences that they will cherish for years to come. Eden Camp is passionate about delivering engaging education with the help of its volunteers and hardworking staff. Over the past few years, the tourism industry has faced many challenges, but the museum continues to innovate with digital technology and immersive displays that transport visitors back in time. Tourism plays a large role in North Yorkshire’s economy and since the pandemic, Eden Camp has experienced a boost in domestic visitors. Those visiting the North come for the region’s diverse landscape, rich history, and unique experiences. Eden Camp is dedicated to supporting the local economy where possible and it is fortunate to be located near Malton, the food capital of North Yorkshire. The museum also provides work for local people as well as placements and educational days for those interested in pursuing historical or tourism roles. At Eden Camp, the team is committed to ensuring that all staff and volunteers feel included and welcome. Management is relaxed and fosters employees’ creativity to help shape the museum’s continued development. When recruiting new staff, the business seeks autonomy, creativity, and a positive outlook above all else. Although soft skills are important, Eden Camp looks for individuals who are willing to learn and provides training to unlock their potential. Eden Camp recently applied for a grant award from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund for North Yorkshire’s Community and Place and was awarded £224,000 to restore its original POW huts. The buildings must remain in good condition to house the museum’s enthralling displays, but the huts are also important pieces of history in their own right. Eden Camp has several upcoming projects to expand its interactive displays and provide more engaging experiences for its valued visitors. The museum will continue to embrace new technologies and aims to include more AI in its operations to provide a fully immersive experience. Since 1987, Eden Camp has provided visitors with fun and engaging education that offers unique insights into the history of World War II. With eye-catching displays and live demonstrations, the museum is home to unparalleled experiences that visitors will remember for years to come. For its educational wonders, Eden Camp Modern History Museum has received our award for this year’s Best Educational Attraction Experience - North Yorkshire. Contact Details Contact: Harriet Stainton Company: Eden Camp Modern History Museum Web Address: www.edencamp.co.uk Originally a prisoner of war camp, Eden Camp Modern History Museum was established to provide unique insights into the history of World War II. In 1985, local businessman Stan Johnson bought the site and created the world’s only Modern History Theme Museum. The museum has been designed to tell the story of the People’s War and transport visitors back in time with immersive displays and interactive experiences. Eden Camp Modern History Museum has received a Northern Enterprise Award for this year’s Best Educational Attraction Experience - North Yorkshire. Best Educational Attraction Experience 2023 - North Yorkshire

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