The Untold Story of Mabel Wulff: A Heroine of WWII
Hidden away in a church in Hamburg lies a plaque dedicated to a Welsh woman whose acts of bravery during World War II are nothing short of astonishing. Mabel Wulff, a seamstress from Newport, risked her life to protect the St Thomas à Becket Church in Hamburg, showcasing unparalleled courage in the face of immense danger.
The Early Years: Love, Separation, and Hardships
Mabel’s story began in Newport in 1909 when she married Max Wulff, a German sailor. However, their happiness was short-lived as Max was deemed an enemy of the state by the British government, leading to his imprisonment in Lancaster and on the Isle of Man.
Left to fend for herself with her two young sons, Edward and Leonard, in a hostile environment characterized by anti-German sentiment, Mabel refused to abandon her husband despite immense pressure to do so.
Surviving Nazi Germany: A Tale of Bravery
After World War I, Mabel and her sons joined Max in Germany, where they faced numerous challenges. By the 1930s, Mabel was the caretaker of the St Thomas à Becket Anglican Church in Hamburg, a position that would test her courage in unprecedented ways.
As the city became a target for bombing raids during WWII, Mabel’s quick thinking and bravery saved the church from destruction. She hid valuable artwork, including paintings and engravings, and extinguished fires caused by falling bombs, putting her own life at risk to protect the sacred space.
Recognition and Legacy
Mabel’s selfless actions did not go unnoticed. In 1947, Church of England officials commended her for her bravery during the war, acknowledging the “great personal danger” she had faced. In 1956, she was awarded the British Empire Medal for her extraordinary courage and dedication to preserving the church.
Despite her remarkable achievements, Mabel’s story remained largely unknown until recent years. Her grandson, Eddie Wulff, has been instrumental in uncovering and sharing her legacy, shedding light on the remarkable woman who risked everything to protect a piece of history.
The Bravery of Mabel Wulff: A Testament to Courage
Mabel Wulff’s story is a testament to the resilience and courage of individuals in the face of adversity. Her unwavering determination to protect the St Thomas à Becket Church in Hamburg serves as a reminder of the extraordinary sacrifices made by ordinary people during times of crisis.
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