The Army Cadet Force was formed in 1859 at the time of the threat of invasion by the French. 1860 saw the formation of cadet units in schools, a "fore runner" of today's Army Cadet Force.

A key figure in Victorian social reform was Miss Octavia Hill, a founder member of the National Trust, who saw and supported the benefits that the cadet movement could offer the young  - a sense of spirit, self discipline and leadership, as well as community and national ideals.

Whilst the Army Cadet Force has played a key part in providing the interest and motivation for many young people to join the armed services over the years, cadet training is not aimed solely at those looking for a such a career. It is also extremely beneficial for those wishing to take up any occupation and lead worthwhile lives in civilian society.

The cadet force today is made up of some 44,000 boys and girls aged between 12 years old [in year 8 at school] and 18 years old, with approximately 1,700 Detachments across the UK.

The birthplace of Octavia Hill is Wisbech in Cambridgeshire, where a small museum has been established in the very house in which Miss Hill was born. Each year the 'Friends of Octavia Hill' organise an annual church service to remember her work.  No1 Company, Cambridgeshire Army Cadet Force, plays an active part in this day and in1996 was granted the Freedom of the town of Wisbech -  a VERY special achievement !

The Octavia Hill Birthplace Museum

Octavia Hill’s life and legacy are celebrated at her Birthplace House at 1 South Brink Place, Wisbech, Cambridgeshire PE13 1JF, a handsome Georgian building facing the river Nene. The house and its exhibits demonstrate this remarkable woman’s influence on spheres of life still relevant today: her fight against poverty and disease and her quest to bring peace and beauty into the lives of ordinary working people.

A major building programme is restoring the Georgian Grade II* listed building to its original size.

From 15 March 2008, the museum is open on Mon, Tues, Wed, Sat & Sun, from 1pm – 4.30pm, (last admissions 4pm), so visits can be combined with the National Trust’s delightful Peckover House, nearby. The museum is open to groups at other times by appointment.

For full details visit click the icon below or call 01945 476358

Octavia Hill