Momignies tank

Musée 40–44 Lieutenant Cook is one of the smallest military museums in Belgium and takes us back to the war, but, more importantly, the liberation. It tells very local stories to provide a better understanding of history. You'll love it.

A World War II museum in Momignies

The museum is located south of the Botte du Hainaut in Momignies. More specifically, it's found on the crest of Imbrechies, where you can enjoy a resplendent panoramic view of the entire region. The view alone warrants a detour.

The exhibition is housed in the Château of Imbrechies, a beautiful compound with multiple buildings inside. You enter through the garden gate. On the left, you’ll see the stable where the first American officer, Lieutenant Cook, died during the liberation of the country in 1944.

An accessible and personal activity at the crossroads of Hainaut and Namur

There are three spaces inside the castle. Each area focuses on one aspect of local history during World War II and showcases different artefacts.

You’ll then learn how the region resisted the German invasion, how the crew of the American bomber plane – named Susan Ruth – sacrificed themselves for their country on 8 February 1944 in Macquenoise and how we fought to liberate our territory.

Tip: in the same spirit, you can also visit the wagon of Canadian prisoners at the train station in Momignies. It was recently renovated to celebrate its 80^th anniversary.

A family outing or school trip

This museum is a really wonderful introduction to the subject and explains the heroic sacrifice made by American soldiers who died to save Belgium.

You can also view the first moments of the liberation in photos: the release of the first prisoners, the first tanks and so forth.

One of the rooms summarises the four horrible years the country experienced (Hitler’s visit to the territory, the Dieppe landing and more) through newspaper articles.

The museum can only be visited with a booking (which must be made at least 48 hours in advance). While booking may seem restrictive, it does ensure a warm welcome.

Join us to walk in the footsteps of the first liberated Belgians.