The Violette Szabó GC Museum
Violette Reine Elizabeth Szabó GC
Introduction by Rosemary Rigby M.B.E.
Founder of the Violette Szabó GC Museum
A dream that became a reality on the 24th June 2000! During the 36 years I have lived at “Cartref House” the idea of creating this unique memorial for Violette took root.
Having already collected many items and received into my care the special collection of Margot Dennis of Eardisley, Hereford, I wanted to go forward to benefit future generations.
The launch of the appeal took place on the 31st October 1998 in pouring rain at Much Dewchurch Village Hall. It was attended by Virginia McKenna, offering her great support to help raise the £20,000 needed to complete the project.
At her suggestion, I was later approached by Steve Tomlinson, a designer in North Yorkshire, who was interested in researching and designing the four panels which now hang in the Museum.
The Trustees decided to commission Steve to compile the panels and have been very delighted with his work. Each panel is introduced by the words from ‘Violette’s poem’, “The Life That I Have”, written by the S.O.E. Codemaster, Leo Marks.
So, in response to overwhelming requests, we have again contacted Steve and asked him to design a small booklet consisting of his original main text, other extracts and a few new items. This book is now available through our shop.
May God continue to bless our venture, The Museum and Violette to watch over it.
Rosemary Rigby MBE
February 2001
Virginia McKenna, Tania Szabó & Rosemary Rigby MBE
at the Opening Ceremony of the
Violette Szabó GC Museum
24th. June 2000
The Museum is open every Wednesday - April to October and at other times by appointment.
Groups by special arrangements only.
Please telephone 01981-540477.
This unique museum has received financial contributions from:
- Awards for All (National Lottery)
- Small Projects Fund
- Southern Marches Partnership
- Donations from the people of Herefordshire and across the World
Further donations to assist with the on-going support of the museum would be greatly appreciated.
Please make all cheques payable to The Violette Szabó GC - Museum A/C - Thank You!
If you are sending money from abroad please use International Money Orders in pounds sterling only.
Sorry we do not have any credit card facilities at the moment but you can pay direct to our bank account at the:-
Violette Szabó GC Museum Appeal
A/C No. 2451078 - Sort Code 30-94-14
Lloyds Bank PLC, 50, High Street, Ross-on-Wye, Herefordshire HR9 5HJ - United Kingdom.
