Collection: Guided by War: British Compasses of the First World War

This collection examines the critical role of compasses used by British forces during the First World War, highlighting their impact on navigation, coordination, and survival in a time of unprecedented global conflict. From trench maps to aerial reconnaissance and naval operations, these instruments were essential tools of war, guiding soldiers, sailors, and airmen through unfamiliar and often hostile terrain. Featuring field compasses, military-issued navigation tools, and personal artifacts, Guided by War offers a compelling look at how these devices shaped strategy and movement in a war where direction could mean the difference between life and death.