Honouring HMS Exeter’s legacy

Exeter’s historic Guildhall will host a special exhibition on Friday, December 13, to mark the 85th anniversary of the Battle of the River Plate, the first major naval battle of the Second World War.

Running from 10am to 4pm, the event will focus on HMS Exeter's involvement in the battle and the bravery of its crew. 

The exhibition will feature a collection of items from HMS Exeter, including its original Ensign Flag, which still bears the bullet holes from the battle. Also on display will be a ceremonial spade used during the battle, and a replica of the ship, providing a glimpse into the history of this iconic Royal Navy vessel. 

The Battle of the River Plate, which took place on December 13, 1939, saw HMS Exeter, HMS Ajax, and HMS Achilles take on the German heavy cruiser Admiral Graf Spee near the River Plate estuary off the coast of Uruguay.

The battle was the first major naval engagement of the Second World War, following the Graf Spee’s attacks on British merchant shipping. 

Although HMS Exeter sustained severe damage and lost 61 crew members, the British squadron managed to force the Admiral Graf Spee to retreat to Montevideo, Uruguay.

The German ship suffered critical damage to its fuel system and was unable to repair it in time to escape. After being denied repairs in Uruguay, the Graf Spee was scuttled on December 17 to avoid capture. 

In addition to the naval conflict, 61 British merchant seamen held by the Germans aboard the Graf Spee were released following the battle, a small but significant moment in the wider context of the war. 

Commodore Henry Harwood Harwood, who commanded the British squadron, was awarded the title of Hereditary Freeman of Exeter in recognition of his leadership during the battle. This honour was later passed down to his great-grandson, Benjamin Maximilian Henry Harwood Harwood, reflecting the continued recognition of the family’s contribution to Exeter’s history. 

The exhibition offers a chance to reflect on the role of HMS Exeter and its crew during a critical moment in the war, honouring the sacrifices made and the strategic victory achieved despite the heavy losses. 

Residents and visitors are encouraged to attend this special exhibition at Exeter Guildhall, which provides a unique opportunity to learn about this important chapter of history and reflect on the city’s naval heritage. 

The exhibition offers a unique opportunity to reflect on the role of HMS Exeter and its crew during a critical moment in the war, honouring the sacrifices made and the strategic victory achieved despite heavy losses. Residents and visitors are encouraged to attend this special event at Exeter Guildhall to learn about this important chapter of history and celebrate the city’s naval heritage.