The major event in the Diaper Heritage Association calendar in 2006 was the opening of the exhibition: Fisherman, Ferryman, Sailor, Spy ~ The Diapers of Itchen Ferry.

Organised in partnership with Southampton’s Museum Service and supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund the exhibition highlighted the exploits of the Diaper family from their beginnings in Itchen Ferry Village to their global maritime exploits.

The exhibition explored the history of Itchen Ferry Village and its close knit community, which was shattered by bombing during World War Two as well as focusing on the development of yacht racing and the Diapers role as skippers of some of the most famous and graceful yachts that have ever sailed.

The exhibition was divided into five sections:

• Early Days
This section traced the early maritime trades of the Ferry villages, the fisher men and ferrymen of the exhibition title and includes archive documents, arts and crafts and fishing memorabilia.


• The Captain’s Table
This had personal items, and yachting prizes belonging to a number of Diaper skippers and an original copy of Tom Diaper’s log.


• Itchen Ferry Village – Family Life
This section featured items which would have graced homes in Bridge Street and Wharncliffe Road in the Ferry Village as well as mementoes from events at the parish church at Pear Tree.


• At Sea
A highlight of the exhibition with items from earlier Regattas and rowing events, medals and cups won in a range of yachting classes and of course featuring the J Class Shamrocks and their owner Sir Thomas Lipton.


• Family Tree (Geneaology)
Click here for information on Genealogy.

If you did not manage to visit the exhibition make a virtual visit here.