Hallmuir POW Chapel
description: This very rare chapel (probably the only one in Scotland) was built by Ukrainian Prisoners of War at Hallmuir Camp, who in 1947 were sent from Italy to Scotland rather than being handed over to the Russians and a potentially terrifying future. The basic building is a simple army hut clad with painted corrugated asbestos cement sheet but the chapel presents an authentic Ukrainian interior, complete with tinsel chandelier and is still in use by the Ukrainian community, who, since they were not able to return home after the war, stayed in Lockerbie and Lochmaben, found work in the area, married local girls and brought up their children to respect their traditions. The building is Category B listed, and its unique value to Scottish and world history is increasingly recognised. Pay a visit and enjoy a warm welcome which includes tea and biscuits, conversation and stories.
source: dumfriesandgalloway
date: 1940s
type: Museum