New exhibition : Words Without Wires

Appropriately housed in the aerodrome’s Communications building, built in 1917, “Words Without Wires” is a must-see for all fans of early technology, aviation or the Great War.

Boasting a fantastic collection of curious and interesting objects and supported by a bespoke digital interactive, the exhibition delves into the development of communication between ground and air. It examines the very first use of Wireless Telegraphy (WT) - pioneered in Essex, and first used operationally by 37 Squadron, based at RFC Stow Maries. The work was funded by local charity the Essex Heritage Trust, with the research and installation provided by the famous Queen’s Award-winning volunteer team at Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome.

‘Words without Wires’ was opened by ex-Managing Director of Marconi Works, Mr Phil Robinson, who commented: “The engineers that developed the radios to enable ground-to-air communication overcame considerable technical challenges in record time. Many of them were very young, with little or no technical training. They went on to achieve even more in the technological adversity presented by World War Two - and beyond.”

Stow Maries chairman Barry Dickens, added: “The advent of WT in aeroplanes in World War One was a massive technological advance. Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome is proud to have been the base of 37 Sqn RFC who first exploited this new capability and now to host this fascinating new exhibition”.

The exhibition is open to view on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays 10am to 4pm as part of the regular admission to the Aerodrome.