An object Biography of WW2 Pillboxes in Cumbria and Lancashire, and the Defensive Structures of Pointe du Hoc, Normandy, France

Abstract

British pillboxes and the defensive structures of Pointe du Hoc were both constructed around the time of the Second World War. While they may share physical similarities, the ways that they have been treated both during and after the Second World War differs greatly. Structures that were designed to defend areas and the soldiers who resided inside have taken on new uses and meanings. This thesis is to show these structures lives. This has been done through using the idea of an object biography, which can show the creation, use and possible disuse of an object or architecture. Pillboxes have been surveyed from the counties of Lancashire and Cumbria as well as the Pointe du Hoc site being the only Normandy coast site. By conducting field research along with historical and oral records I will show the object biography of these structures. Furthermore research will show the changes of biography, drawing comparisons between the British pillbox and the defensive structures at Pointe du Hoc. The work places great emphasis on what is found at each individual structure. These ‘physical indicators’ (graffiti, damage, material culture and alterations) are the biography. The physical indicators show evidence of pillbox use during its life. We can use them to ascertain what the biography of a structure is and how it has changed through time.