Thorney’s 1940s Weekend Brings Wartime History Back to Life

Thorney’s 1940s Weekend Brings Wartime History Back to Life

Stepping into the Crowland and Thorney 1940s event at Thorney Park Farm felt like walking straight into a living chapter of wartime history. The fields were lined with military vehicles, tents, and equipment displays that drew visitors in with their sheer scale and authenticity. From armoured carriers to dispatch riders’ bikes, every corner offered something to explore — and every exhibitor had a story to tell. The Thorney 1940s Weekend brought the era vividly to life for visitors.

What quickly became clear was just how much care and responsibility goes into these reenactments. Several exhibitors explained that many of the firearms on display were replicas, deactivated, or adapted to fire only blank cartridges, ensuring safety while still giving visitors a vivid sense of the era.

How firearms are made safe and legal

One exhibitor even showed me a semi‑automatic pistol that he took apart, explaining that it had been through so many safety conversions that it could never be returned to live use. Even if someone attempted to recommission it, the internal structure was now so weakened through the destructive milling of various parts that it would almost certainly fail under pressure — quite literally risking the weapon exploding rather than firing. It was a striking reminder of how seriously the authorities and these groups take safety, and how much work goes into ensuring that everything on display is suitable for public events.

Yet among all the vehicles and equipment, one exhibit stood out above everything else: a Buffalo landing vehicle, an extraordinary piece of engineering history that dominated the showground. Still undergoing an intense and painstaking restoration, the Buffalo drew crowds throughout the day as volunteers explained the scale of the project and the challenges of bringing such a rare machine back to life. Even in its partially restored state, it was impossible not to be impressed by its size, presence, and the dedication behind its revival.

More of how times were years ago

I am including here a YouTube video telling the story of how this WWII Buffalo landing craft had been buried deep in the ground near Crowland after being washed away when it — along with others — had been used to create a dam during severe flooding in 1947.

Adding to the atmosphere were the many visitors who arrived dressed for the occasion. Ladies in 1940s‑style dresses, victory rolls, and bright red lipstick mingled with men in period suits, flat caps, and even full military uniforms of the era. Their enthusiasm gave the event a warm, communal feel — as if the whole crowd had stepped back in time together, turning Thorney Park Farm into a living snapshot of the wartime home front. I am also including a second video showing a previous 1940s event featuring wartime dress and the music of yesteryear.

And then it was time to rest and just enjoy

By the afternoon, feeling a little tired and ready for a pause, I slipped into one of the large warehouse buildings where period music drifted through the air. The atmosphere changed instantly — softer, warmer, almost like stepping into a 1940s canteen. I settled down with a welcome coffee and a sausage roll, both prepared and served with real warmth by Tracy from Sweetheart Catering and Events. She told me she has been supporting this event for the past five years, keeping visitors fuelled, lifting spirits, and adding her own friendly touch to the day. Her presence and dedication felt very much at the heart of the event’s welcoming atmosphere.

As I sat there enjoying my break, I also spotted Sue, who many will know from her work alongside Tracy at the Baa Baa Bistro Café at Paston Farm Community Centre. It was nice to see a familiar face from home, and she had come along to support the event and catch up with friends. Her cheerful hello added a pleasant moment of connection — but it was Tracy’s hard work and kindness that truly anchored this little pause in the day.

As my visit drew to a close, the sounds of engines, music, and laughter blended into a gentle hum across the showground. What stayed with me most was not just the impressive machinery or the meticulous uniforms, but the sense of shared enthusiasm — volunteers, exhibitors, families, and local supporters all coming together to keep history alive. Thorney’s 1940s event wasn’t just a look back at the past; it was a celebration of community spirit, dedication, and the people who make these moments possible year after year.

For more historical reviews click here

To read more Reviews click here