Words Behind Barbed Wire
Throughout the Festival, 10am to 5pm
York Army Museum, Tower Street (map)
Free admission
Wheelchair accessible
York Army Museum invites visitors to discover the remarkable story of Dan Billany – a novelist whose creative voice was forged through the extraordinary experiences of war and captivity.
Serving with the East Yorkshire Regiment during the Second World War, Billany was deployed to Italy where he was later taken prisoner of war. This new exhibition brings together rare objects and archival material to explore his dual identity as a soldier and a writer, offering a deeply human perspective on the realities of conflict.
Featuring personal items, manuscripts, military material and archival documents, the exhibition traces how Billany’s wartime experiences shaped his work as a novelist. Gain an insight into life on campaign, the hardships of imprisonment and the enduring power of storytelling as a means of survival, reflection and expression.
This intimate display highlights the intersection of literature and military history, revealing how creativity can endure even in the most challenging circumstances. Through Billany’s story, the exhibition shines a light on the lasting personal impact of the Second World War.
Please note: The area in which the exhibition is displayed is down a flight of 11 steps - there is a platform stairlift to assist with access.
