Jaq's story as told to us by our guide.
Jaq,still a boy, returned with his parents to this Hill in 1918 to farm. As they dug and ploughed the land ammunition, shell cases, small arms, helmets, badges, parts of a uniform, bodies and body parts, grave marker stones - and the trenches - were uncovered. In fact all the gruesome paraphenalia of an abandoned battle field.
The appropriate authorities were informed of any human remains which were transferred for identification and proper burial.
Jaq however became a collector, installing the finds in every space he could use in and around the farmhouse. His collection became famous; other people donated their finds to the "museum". Important people came to view it and articles were written about it.
At the outbreak of WW2 Jaq went off to the army , his parents promised to look after the Museum and actually buried most of the contents for safekeeping.
After his discharge Jaq continued the collection which occupies several rooms. In parts there is some sense of order, in others none - a curator's challenge if ever there was!
The chaotic disorder here is at odds with the meticulous care shown in official museums. We did not buy anthing at the cafe except a cold drink that came in a can!
Now an elderly man we expected to meet Jaq who keeps this place going in the midst of the trenches that you can walk through. An eerie, sombre experience.
Sadly Jaq had been taken to hospital a few days before and was said to be very poorly.
I cannot imagine what will happen here in future. Leave a Comment
Directions: Leave Ypres via Menin Gate. At the traffic lights turn right onto the Ieper-Menen road (Menin Road). In approximately 3 kilomtres take a right turn signposted to Sanctuary Wood (Hill 62) museum
