Around 70,000 refugees from Nazism emigrated to Britain before the outbreak of World War II, including 10,000 unaccompanied children. Many of these refugees were later interned on the Isle of Man as “enemy aliens”. Objects, such as suitcases, cherished items brought on the journey and letters, tell their stories. We also hold material relating to those who survived the Holocaust and settled in Britain after the war.
Primrose Leaves Magazine
Primrose Leaves magazine which was produced by the Primrose Jewish Youth Club. The club was founded in 1946 by young survivors of the Holocaust.
Doll Brought on the Kinderstransport
This doll belonged to Edith Rothschild, who was born in Frankfurt in 1925. On 11 May 1939, Edith came to Britain on the Kindertransport carrying the doll with her.
Luggage Label for Margrit Freudenbergova
This identifying tag was worn by 17-year-old Margit Freudenbergova on her journey from Prague in 1939. She was one of 10,000 Jewish refugee children who were admitted to Britain between December 1938 and September 1939
Thank You Card
Thank you card made and signed by young refugees of Dovercourt Bay Holiday Camp (near Harwich) addressed to Mr and Mrs Bond, the camp manager and his wife.
Toy Truck Belonging to Barney Greenman
Toy truck made in the early 1940s by Leon Greenman for his son, Barney
Travelling Trunk
Travelling trunk used by Ernst Kohnstamm, a German hop merchant who travelled all over Europe
Libseth Sokal’s Apron
Apron worn by Lisbeth Sokal, who came to Britain in 1938 as a refugee from Nazism. Lisbeth was granted a visa to work in Britain as a domestic servant.
Scarf Woven by Alexander Fainberg
This scarf was sent as a birthday present from Alexander Fainberg to his fiancée whilst he was interned in Onchan Camp on the Isle of Man. He was released in July 1941 and married his fiancée in November of that year.
