We were honoured to receive a legacy from the late Barbara Beards, and have been given permission to share some of her story here.

Legacies are critical to our work at Cornwall Museum and Art Gallery and no matter the size, every gift makes a difference. To find out more about leaving Cornwall a better place for future generations, click here.

Barbara Beards B.E.M. (1920–2024)

From wartime codebreaker to tireless community volunteer, Barbara Beards lived a life of service. During World War II, she worked in the Women’s Royal Naval Service at Eastcote – part of the Bletchley Park complex – helping to break enemy codes. After the war she devoted decades to helping others, earning the British Empire Medal.

Barbara was a proud Member of the RIC for more than 30 years, regularly volunteering in the Courtney Library. In her later years, Barbara visited the library most weeks, hand-recording archival entries until the age of 98. With her deep knowledge of Cornwall, she took great pride in identifying places, buildings, and details from donated collections. She was even photographed at work in the archives for a local magazine, a moment that delighted her. Her dedication was recognised with an RIC award shortly before the pandemic, which she received in person.

“My aunt was a Cornish woman who was proud of her heritage. She loved to tell family members of places of interest and the history of Cornwall, and was committed to leaving funds for the important work carried out by the museum.” Kelvin May, Nephew.

“Barbara’s careful archival work and enduring commitment to the museum ensured many important items and documents were preserved and made accessible to researchers worldwide. Her contribution – and the legacy she so kindly left in her Will – is a lasting gift to future generations.” Bryony Robins, Co-Director, Cornwall Museum and Art Gallery.