Exhibition: 100 years of The Poppy Factory

Founded in the aftermath of the First World War as a means to employ disabled ex-servicemen, The Poppy Factory continues to support veterans and produce Remembrance wreaths from its home on Petersham Road today.

This exhibition explores The Poppy Factory’s fascinating history and displays artefacts which chart the story of this unique local charity.

Veterans who had been wounded in the First World War were the first to be employed at the fledgling factory, making Remembrance poppies and wreaths by hand and living on site in purpose-built flats. Within a few short years, they had established a tradition and created a thriving community of ex-Forces workers and families.

Their inspiring story is told in full in the exhibition, which has been curated by the museum to celebrate its neighbour’s centenary. Personal stories, vintage poppies and other key artefacts have been brought together in the display, which shows how The Poppy Factory grew into a bustling local enterprise and a national employment charity.