The First World War Memorial Monument being unveiled by the Prince of Wales in 1924
Cornwall’s Army museum, based at Bodmin Keep, is calling on the public to help secure its future.
In August 2024, the Keep was closed after structural issues were found.
The museum planned to take ownership from the Ministry of Defence and fund its modernisation, but with negotiations still unresolved, the building remains shut a year later.
The team has launched a campaign urging locals to write letters to their MP’s, sharing why the museum matters to them.
Director Helen Bishop-Stephens said: “We’ve had a great response from [Lib Dem MP for North Cornwall] Ben Maguire and his team, and [Labour MP for South East Cornwall] Anna Gelderd. We know our campaign is working and that senior figures in the army are considering our proposal, so let’s not stop now.”
Helen Bishop-Stephens, Director
The museum runs educational workshops, well being projects, exhibitions and school trips.
Built in 1859, the former headquarters of the Duke of Cornwall’s Light Infantry houses the museum, with more than 20,000 collection items, a library and meeting rooms.
The collection is wide and includes weapons that were used, stories about the battles that have been fought and personal letters that were written on the battlefield.
Child enjoying Bodmin Keep display
Locals have shared their views.
“I remember going to the museum on school trips when I was younger, and being a TA now in Bodmin, I think it would be a real shame for children to miss out on that opportunity,” commented Rosie Howard, while Trevor Symons said: “It’s part of our history that should be maintained for future generations.”
“I think it would be a huge loss to the community and we all need to fight to keep it,” added Ethan Harding.
Helen commented: ”We’re really grateful for the donations and expressions of support that we’ve received so far because we know that if we don’t shout now, 300 years of Army history will disappear from Cornwall.”
Letters need to be submitted by the 31st October 2025 and you can find out more at https://bodminkeep.org.uk/write-a-letter-of-support