麻豆社

Laurence and Egbert Cadbury's family were famous for making chocolate and as pacifist Quakers, for being against war. This was a problem for two young brothers who were keen to do support their country in World War One. But how could they without being at odds with their faith?

Justin Cadbury's grandfather, Egbert volunteered to become a Royal Navy fighter pilot in 1915. Along with his gunner Bob Leckie, Bertie shot down the last Zeppelin of the war in 1918.

Bertie's elder brother Laurence was at the front within months of the war starting in 1914. But he didn't go to fight. Instead the 25-year-old was there to save lives as a founding member of the Friends Ambulance Unit.

It's not a story Laurence's son Sir Dominic Cadbury knows well. But the 麻豆社 was given special access to the two brother's war. The private papers reveal Laurence almost joined the army and spoke of the shame of being a non-combatant.

At the same time the letters show Bertie question his decision to fight.

Both were decorated for their bravery and returned home to help run the family business now famous around the world.

Location: Cadbury World, Bournville, Birmingham B30 2LU
Image: Egbert Cadbury (left) and Laurence Cadbury, courtesy of Cadbury Research Library at the University of Birmingham

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