Portsdown U3A decided to explore Portsmouth’s naval heritage to mark the First World War Centenary.

The Battle of Jutland was the largest naval battle of the First World War and is an integral part of Portsmouth’s heritage. However, prior to the Centenary, little was known about the experiences of those who served during the battle.

With the help of Gateways to the First World War Engagement Centre, Portsdown U3A produced a digital map to pin-point the residences of 662 lost sailors from Portsmouth and link to evidence and source material that provided further insight into their lives.

Drop-in sessions around the city led to meetings with descendants of sailors lost at Jutland. Their testimonies, which were showcased in a touring exhibition, provided a direct link to the men who died through the experiences of the families left behind.

To ensure a lasting legacy, the map will be available online and a printed copy of the research will be held at Portsmouth Library, the Records Office, the National Museum of the Royal Navy and the University of Portsmouth.