Farnborough's Military Heritage

Farnborough, once a small town, has transformed into a large, vibrant commercial community. Its military heritage dates back to 1856 when the army arrived and built a barrack complex. The Royal Air Force and Royal Aircraft Establishment were later established, and the town was home to many other units during the war. The war years saw heroic stories and tragic events, and the town is now home to a fine collection of military monuments and memorials.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 96 pages
Publication date: 15 August 2021
Publisher: Amberley Publishing

For centuries, Farnborough was a small town situated southwest of London, but today, it has undergone a remarkable transformation into a vast and bustling commercial community that is internationally renowned for hosting the prestigious international air show, which it has been hosting since 1949. Moreover, Farnborough has become synonymous with military aviation, serving as a hub for military aviation activities.

However, the true origins of Farnborough's military heritage lie not in aviation but in the arrival of the army in 1856 and the construction of a new barrack complex in South Farnborough, known as North Camp. The army's presence in Farnborough expanded further with the arrival of the Royal Engineers at South Farnborough, followed by the formation of the Army Air Battalion and, subsequently, the Army's Royal Flying Corps. The Royal Flying Corps was eventually replaced by the establishment of the Royal Air Force at Farnborough, and the Royal Aircraft Establishment was formed. The Royal Engineers also established a camp in North Farnborough, and during the war years, Farnborough became home to numerous other units, including troops from the Canadian Army.

During the war years, Farnborough played a significant role in the war effort. German prisoners of war were engaged in building housing in Farnborough, captured German scientists were brought here and interrogated about their knowledge of aviation and rocket development, and captured German planes were flown and frequently crashed at Farnborough. The war years also witnessed many heroic stories and tragic events unfold as Farnborough was routinely attacked.

Farnborough boasts a remarkable military heritage that encompasses a wide range of facilities, including hospitals, notable burials, and a wealth of military buildings and structures. Additionally, the town boasts a fine and often overlooked collection of military monuments and memorials, along with its association with numerous military personalities. This, then, is the true story of Farnborough's military heritage.

Weight: 298g
Dimension: 165 x 235 x 13 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781398101616