Multi-disciplinary investigations at PoW Camp 198, Bridgend, S. Wales: site of a mass escape in March 1945

Journal article

Rees-Hughes, L, Pringle, JK, Russill, N, Wisniewski, KD and Doyle, P (2017). Multi-disciplinary investigations at PoW Camp 198, Bridgend, S. Wales: site of a mass escape in March 1945. Journal of Conflict Archaeology. 11 (2-3), pp. 166-191. https://doi.org/https://www.doi.org/10.1080/15740773.2017.1357900
AuthorsRees-Hughes, L, Pringle, JK, Russill, N, Wisniewski, KD and Doyle, P
Abstract

The largest escape of German Prisoner of War (PoW) in WW2 was in March 1945 from Camp 198, situated in Bridgend, South Wales, UK. Since camp closure the site has become derelict, and has not been scientifically investigated. This paper reports on the search to locate the PoW escape tunnel that was dug from Hut 9. This hut remains in remarkable condition, with numerous PoW graffiti still present. Also preserved is a prisoner-constructed false wall in a shower room behind which excavated material was hidden, though the tunnel entrance itself has been concreted over. Near-surface geophysics and ground-based LiDAR were used to locate the tunnel. Mid-frequency GPR surveys were judged optimal, with magnetometry least useful due to the above-ground metal objects. Archaeological excavations discovered the intact tunnel and bed-board shoring. With Allied PoW escape camp attempts well documented, this investigation provides valuable insight into German escape efforts.

Year2017
JournalJournal of Conflict Archaeology
Journal citation11 (2-3), pp. 166-191
ISSN1574-0773
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)https://doi.org/https://www.doi.org/10.1080/15740773.2017.1357900
Publication dates
Print08 Aug 2017
Publication process dates
Deposited18 Apr 2019
Accepted04 Jul 2017
Accepted author manuscript
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Open
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