Unearthing the Past: The Emotional Discovery of World War I Artifacts at Cooden Camp in Bexhill

Beneath the quiet landscape of Bexhill, East Sussex, lies a forgotten chapter of history—one that holds stories of bravery, loss, and camaraderie. The excavation of Cooden Camp, a World War I training site, has uncovered artifacts that bridge the gap between past and present. These relics offer a rare glimpse into the lives of the soldiers who once trained here, many of whom would never return. This discovery not only enriches our understanding of wartime history but also reminds us of the sacrifices that shaped our world.

The Cooden Camp Excavation: Rediscovering the Past

On January 15, 2025, the BBC Sussex reported on an exciting archaeological excavation at Cooden Camp in Bexhill. The camp, which opened its doors in 1914, served as a crucial training base for soldiers, most notably the Royal Sussex Regiment. This regiment became tragically famous for its heavy losses during the Battle of the Boar’s Head on June 30, 1916—referred to locally as “The Day Sussex Died.”

The excavation, led by Archaeology South-East in partnership with East Sussex County Council and housebuilder Bellway, has uncovered a range of artifacts that provide fascinating insights into the lives of the soldiers who once called this place home. Among the items found are bottles, plates, boots, and spent ammunition, all offering a tangible connection to the men who trained here, many of whom would go on to fight and die together.

Video

Join archaeologists as they excavate a World War I training camp in Bexhill – watch the video to explore the historical insights and artifacts uncovered from this significant site!

A Crucial Training Ground During World War I

Cooden Camp was not only home to soldiers from the Royal Sussex Regiment but also hosted troops from as far afield as South Africa and Australia. The camp was one of many training sites established across Britain as the war effort ramped up. Opened in 1914, the camp’s primary role was to prepare young men for the horrors they would face on the Western Front.

The soldiers at Cooden Camp participated in intense drills and physical training, but the real preparation was mental. The camaraderie formed here, as soldiers trained and fought alongside one another, was vital. Many of the men who trained at Cooden Camp joined together as part of “Pals Battalions,” where friendships and connections were forged that would last a lifetime—tragically for many, it would also be their last. The Battle of the Boar’s Head, where the Royal Sussex Regiment saw devastating losses, was one such instance where these men fought and died together.

 Discovering the Artifacts: A Window into History

The artifacts discovered during the excavation offer an intimate glimpse into the everyday lives of the soldiers who lived and trained at Cooden Camp. Among the most notable finds were bottles, plates, boots, and even spent rounds of ammunition. These items provide a connection to the soldiers who once used them and are valuable for understanding their routines and experiences.

Simon Stevens, project officer with Archaeology South-East, spoke about the emotional connection to these items, remarking that the soldiers were “just Sussex lads,” who spoke and lived much like the locals. This connection humanizes the history and makes the artifacts found all the more significant. It’s not just about the items themselves; it’s about the lives they represent.

The Legacy of Cooden Camp: From Training Ground to Hospital

While the camp initially served as a training base, it would later play another important role during the war. In 1918, Cooden Camp became the site of Princess Patricia’s Canadian Red Cross Hospital, treating wounded soldiers before the camp eventually closed in 1919. This transition from military training site to medical facility highlights the multifaceted role that Cooden Camp played during World War I.

For the soldiers who trained here, the camp was a place of both hope and fear. They arrived with the hopes of returning home victorious, but for many, Cooden Camp marked the beginning of a long journey to the battlefield, where they would face unimaginable hardships. The hospital that followed their departure serves as a testament to the sacrifices made and the lives lost.

The Modern-Day Excavation: A Partnership for Preservation

The current excavation, which is taking place in the northern section of the site, is part of a larger development project spearheaded by Bellway, a housebuilder with plans to construct 70 new homes near Clavering Walk. The project is a delicate balance between preserving this piece of history and meeting the demands of modern development.

In this sense, the excavation serves as a bridge between the past and the future. The partnership between Archaeology South-East and Bellway has ensured that the significant archaeological discoveries made at Cooden Camp are preserved for future generations while still allowing for new homes to be built on the land. This collaboration highlights the importance of historical preservation in the face of modern development.

The Emotional Impact: Understanding the Soldiers’ Lives

As archaeologists uncover the remnants of life at Cooden Camp, it becomes clear that the significance of these findings goes beyond mere historical curiosity. The discovery of everyday objects like boots and bottles gives us insight into the soldiers’ experiences—both mundane and extraordinary. These soldiers, many of whom trained and fought together, forged bonds that were tested by the brutality of war.

The emotional weight of these discoveries cannot be underestimated. For those living in East Sussex today, many of whom have familial ties to the soldiers who trained at Cooden Camp, the excavation has a personal resonance. It’s not just about the past; it’s about remembering the sacrifices made by those who came before us.

Conclusion: Preserving History, Honoring the Past

The excavation of Cooden Camp in Bexhill has provided an invaluable opportunity to learn about the men who trained here during World War I. Through the artifacts uncovered, we gain a deeper understanding of their lives, their sacrifices, and their enduring legacy. This excavation not only preserves a critical piece of military history but also allows us to reflect on the human cost of war.

As development continues in the area, it is heartening to see the importance of historical preservation being recognized. The partnership between Archaeology South-East and Bellway is a model for how modern development can coexist with the preservation of our shared history. Ultimately, the excavation at Cooden Camp serves as a reminder that history is not just something we read about in books; it’s something we live with every day, shaped by the lives and struggles of those who came before us.