New panels have been unveiled at the University of Cumbria’s Lancaster campus, re-telling the story of Bowerham Barracks.

The barracks formed the depot of the King’s Own Royal Regiment from 1880 to 1959 before the site became St Martin’s College and now the University of Cumbria.

The military history panels are on buildings which were then known as the drill shed, the keep, the officers’ mess, and barrack blocks.

Lancaster Mayor Coun Colin Hartley and Lancashire Deputy Lieutenant Helen Bingley unveiled the panels as part of the Remembrance weekend.

Mayor of Lancaster Coun Colin Hartley and Deputy Lieutenant of Lancashire Helen Bingley unveil military history panels at the University of Cumbria campus in Lancaster, formerly Bowerham Barracks. With them are, from left: Rev Graham Young, Vicar of Lancaster; Claire Aindow, Pro Vice-Chancellor; Elaine Hartley, Mayoress; Stuart Bateson, of Morecambe Brass Band; and Col Andrew Dennis, of the Duke of Lancaster’s Regiment.

placeholder image — Mayor of Lancaster Coun Colin Hartley and Deputy Lieutenant of Lancashire Helen Bingley unveil military history panels at the University of Cumbria campus in Lancaster, formerly Bowerham Barracks. With them are, from left: Rev Graham Young, Vicar of Lancaster; Claire Aindow, Pro Vice-Chancellor; Elaine Hartley, Mayoress; Stuart Bateson, of Morecambe Brass Band; and Col Andrew Dennis, of the Duke of Lancaster’s Regiment.

“We stand on ground that holds a deeply significant chapter of our city’s history,” said the Mayor.

“These stones echoed with the footsteps of soldiers who trained right here before deploying to global conflicts, including both world wars.

“The dedication, sacrifice and resilience of those service members are woven into the fabric of Lancaster’s identity.

“These panels offer a daily reminder to future generations of students, researchers, and residents about the connection between this institution and the wider community.

“They challenge our young people to reflect on the values of duty, community spirit and sacrifice.”

Mayoress Elaine Hartley’s father served at the barracks during his national service back in the 1950s.

Mrs Bingley, representing the Lord-Lieutenant of Lancashire, said the panels helped us to appreciate the lives of so many who did their duty with courage and selflessness, and reminded us that we need to ensure future generations understand that peace and liberty were not historical accidents but were hard-won privileges.