Our Clothespin Project: A Visual Story

 To truly grasp the immense scale of the Kindertransport, we searched for a way to visually represent the nearly 10,000 lives that were saved. We wanted to create something tangible that would not only highlight this incredible rescue effort but also honor the young lives that were forever changed.

Our inspiration came partly from a story we heard about a paper clip project, which effectively conveyed the vast number of victims during the Holocaust. We aimed to create something similar—a powerful visual that would bring awareness and light to the Kindertransport, a part of Holocaust history that, for too long, was rarely spoken about.

In our project, each clothespin represents a child saved, and together they form a symbolic train track that led these children to safety. We firmly believe that the children of the Kindertransport were not just refugees; they were young survivors. They displayed incredible resilience, endured the profound tragedy of being torn from their families, and yet, through this rescue, four generations were able to live. Their story is a testament to hope amidst unimaginable darkness.

This project felt incredibly relatable to us. As 13-year-olds, we realized that many of these Kindertransport children were our age, some younger, some older, when they had to face such immense tragedy. Their ability to endure and hold onto hope for reunification deeply touched us. This personal connection fueled our desire to help other children become aware of this vital history.

We feel strongly that children teaching children can be incredibly impactful. In just five or so years, direct first-hand accounts from survivors will no longer be possible. This means it is crucial for our generation to step up and carry the message forward. Our clothespin project is a visual representation of this commitment – a reminder of the past, built by the present, for the future.