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Escape to Gwrych Castle: A Jewish Refugee Story
The often-overlooked history of the German-Jewish refugee children of Gwrych Castle.
In 1939, several German Jewish refugee children, traveling on the Kindertransport, found themselves in Abergele, North Wales. Would this be their temporary new home? Gwrych Castle, where a Hachshara was being set up, was a residential “training center” aimed at preparing the Jewish children for life on a kibbutz in Israel, where they hoped to be reunited with their families. In this intriguing debut, Andrew Hesketh explores the lesser-told history of the children who lived in this North Wales castle, bringing together their personal memories and experiences to create a unique picture of their lives. He also explores the history of the building itself, from its origins in the nineteenth century up to its use in the reality television series I’m A Celebrity, Get Me Out Of Here! in 2020.
In 1939, several German Jewish refugee children, traveling on the Kindertransport, found themselves in Abergele, North Wales. Would this be their temporary new home? Gwrych Castle, where a Hachshara was being set up, was a residential “training center” aimed at preparing the Jewish children for life on a kibbutz in Israel, where they hoped to be reunited with their families. In this intriguing debut, Andrew Hesketh explores the lesser-told history of the children who lived in this North Wales castle, bringing together their personal memories and experiences to create a unique picture of their lives. He also explores the history of the building itself, from its origins in the nineteenth century up to its use in the reality television series I’m A Celebrity, Get Me Out Of Here! in 2020.
304 pages, Hardcover
Published October 6, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews
July 13, 2023
‘The children stood in silence, watching the sky redden and glow as Liverpool burned in the distance and 365 people lost their lives.’
What a book. Truly so very well written, with a good mix of the happy and sad memories that these hundreds of Jewish refugees carried with them on and from their arrival to Gwrych Castle. As a local, it was so interesting to read the much needed history of the castle’s involvement in the Second World War as well as the impact and reaction of Abergele’s population- Hesketh illustrates that beautifully. Highly, highly recommend.
What a book. Truly so very well written, with a good mix of the happy and sad memories that these hundreds of Jewish refugees carried with them on and from their arrival to Gwrych Castle. As a local, it was so interesting to read the much needed history of the castle’s involvement in the Second World War as well as the impact and reaction of Abergele’s population- Hesketh illustrates that beautifully. Highly, highly recommend.
April 2, 2025
An incredible read. This powerful book offers a deeply moving portrayal of the Jewish refugee experience specifically those of which ended up in North Wales. Through vivid storytelling, the author brings to life the struggles, resilience, and hope of those who faced unimaginable hardships.
The book brings to light so many spectacular individuals, displaying all they have achieved and endured in such a well written and thoughtful way.
It’s clear to see all of the time, effort and care that has been put in to creating and perfecting this book.
An incredibly moving read, could not recommend enough.
The book brings to light so many spectacular individuals, displaying all they have achieved and endured in such a well written and thoughtful way.
It’s clear to see all of the time, effort and care that has been put in to creating and perfecting this book.
An incredibly moving read, could not recommend enough.
Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews