Subcollections

The core collection of the Passchendaele Museum is divided into several subcollections, mainly originating from dissolved museums or private collections.

The old collection, acquired between 1989 and 2002

Since 1989, the original collection of the former local museum has been further expanded through the acquisition of numerous new items. The historical collection, acquired between 1989 and 2002, comprises approximately 1,100 objects. After 2002, the Passchendaele Museum acquired around 2,300 objects through purchases, donations and excavations, in support of the Passchendaele Museum established in 2004.

The Hill 60 collection, acquired in 2007

The collection of the former Hill 60 Museum was jointly acquired in 2007 together with the City of Ypres, with funding from the Flemish Government and the Province of West Flanders. This collection was received by the museum during the course of 2008. Consisting primarily of weapons, ammunition and logistical equipment, it forms a complementary addition to the Vieux-Berquin collection.

The Vieux-Berquin collection, acquired in 2008

In July 2008, the Passchendaele Museum acquired the collection of the former Musée Franco-Australien from Vieux-Berquin, France. The Passchendaele Museum purchased the collection at a favourable price. It comprises around 500 items, including a large number of uniforms and personal equipment.

The Fierens collection, acquired in 2009

In 2009, the Passchendaele Museum was able to acquire an exceptionally large and well-presed collection of inert ammunition from the private collector Edouard Fierens. According to experts such as DOVO (Explosive Ordnance Disposal Service), it is regarded as the most comprehensive collection of First World War ammunition. The collection contains over 1,500 items, mainly artillery shells, hand grenades and aerial bombs, among others. In addition, it includes a smaller number of edged weapons, firing plates, tools and shell cases.