The precise number of conscientious objectors in World War One is not known. In the 1920s the figure was estimated at 16,000 but we now know the number is substantially larger as recent painstaking research is uncovering the names of previously unknown men. It is now estimated that the figure of 20,000 is a more accurate estimate.

Numbers apart little is know about the majority of these men as the flood of enquiries by present day relatives to the PPU testifies. We have our own archive of CO material; more material is dotted about archives around the country and much more sits (perhaps unknown) in people’s attics.

We are now trying to expand the knowledge of these men’s and their supporter’s lives and with the help of people around the country we hope to fill in the gaps in knowledge.

NAME THE MAN
Recognise any of these WW1 conscientious objectors? Help us put a name to a face. | more

FAMILYHISTORY/BASIC REASEARCH
Letters home are fascinating but also a vital source information about COs experiences and values.
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NEWS & COMMENT
RESEARCH
EDUCATION