Eden Camp spotlights Sanspray extinguisher, a ‘reminder of the quiet heroism that formed the backbone of Home Front resilience’
Rare survivor – the Sanspray fire extinguisher that survived a Bridlington bomb blast, now part of the collection at Eden Camp(Image: edencamp.co.uk)
A history-making fire extinguisher that withstood a bomb blast in Bridlington at the height of the Second World War is being spotlighted by living history museum, Eden Camp. The “deceptively simple” Sanspray fire extinguisher remained intact after a bomb that was dropped in Hilderthorpe Road levelled the barber’s shop where it was being kept – with the customer remaining seated in the barber’s chair!
Eden Camp, near Malton, now has the Sanspray as part of its archive collection at the modern military museum. It says the object tells “a remarkable story of civilian courage”.
The Sanspray fire extinguisher, a paper and card canister filled with sand, was designed to combat the incendiary bombs that threatened homes and communities across Britain during the Second World War. Still bearing its original writing and markings, the Sanspray is a rare survivor and “a reminder of the quiet heroism that formed the backbone of Home Front resilience during one of the darkest periods in British history”, according to the museum.
The Sanspray was originally located at a family barber’s, Sampson’s Gent’s Hairdressers, in Hilderthorpe Road, Bridlington, a family business with a history stretching back over 100 years. In the aftermath of the bomb damage, the family wrapped the extinguisher, along with ornaments, decorations, and other items from the hairdresser’s, using that week’s newspapers, and stored them in a cupboard under the stairs.
The item remained hidden among First World War field mail and family records for over 60 years, until they were rediscovered by the family in 2004. The extinguisher was donated to Eden Camp by Caroline Usher, the great-granddaughter of Harry Sampson, founder of Sampson’s Gent’s Hairdressers, which started in Prospect Street in the town.
It was uncovered by Caroline and her family in 2004 while house-clearing following the death of her Great Aunt Ivy, who had lived in the property her whole life. Summer O’Brien, collection and engagement manager at Eden Camp, said: “Objects like this remind us that heroism during World War Two wasn’t confined to the front line.
“Ordinary people showed extraordinary courage in the most terrifying moments, and this piece helps us tell those stories with the respect they deserve. This extinguisher has been in the donor’s family for decades, tucked away with other memories from the past.
“It is a ‘time capsule piece’ that will pay tribute to their family’s history.” History enthusiasts can find out more about the ARP (Air Raid Precautions) wardens in Eden Camp’s Hut 4, and discover more remarkable artefacts and explore the extensive collection of interactive World War II exhibits at Britain’s last remaining former Prisoner of War camp.
Perfect for history buffs or families looking for a unique day out, there is something for everyone at Eden Camp. Pre-booked tickets are discounted against on-the-gate admission prices; concession (65+) and family tickets are also available.
To find out more about Eden Camp and to book tickets, visit edencamp.co.uk
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