As part of Remembrance Day and Railway 200, the historic Cavell Van returned to Dover.

The 1919-built luggage van brought fallen soldiers back home, and its namesake was Nurse Edith Cavell, who died in the First World War helping soldiers escape.

After her body was carried back in May 1919, this van type became known as a Cavell Van.

A few months later, in July, it transported Captain Charles Fryatt back.

By November 1920, it had made a significant journey carrying an Unknown Warrior, who later represented all who were lost and never identified.

Today, over 300 people gathered at Dover’s Cruise Terminal 1 to see the van return to Dover (which had been held at the Kent & East Sussex Railway) after 105 years since it brought back the Unknown Warrior.

“To see the Cavell Van return to Dover after 105 years has been a truly emotional experience. This railway van was used in one of most poignant moments in our railway heritage – it carried home the body of the Unknown Warrior in 1920 who represented those who died in the war and have no known grave. 

“As we mark Railway 200, it’s important we remember that railways have always been about more than just moving people and goods; they’ve played a vital role in our nation’s most significant moments.

“We are honoured to have worked with our partners to bring this piece of living history back to where it’s remarkable journey began, and to ensure that the sacrifices of Nurse Edith Cavell, Captain Charles Fryatt, and the Unknown Warrior are never forgotten.”

Steve White, Managing Director of South Eastern Railway