Henry Wuga, a remarkable man who escaped Nazi persecution and became a pillar of the Glasgow community, passed away in 2024 at the age of 100. His life story is one of resilience, gratitude, and unwavering dedication to education and community service.
From Nuremberg to Glasgow: Escape on the Kindertransport
Born Heinz Martin Wuga in Nuremberg in 1924, Henry’s idyllic childhood was shattered by the rise of Nazism. With persecution intensifying, his parents, Karl and Lore, made the agonizing decision to send their 15-year-old son on the Kindertransport, a series of rescue missions that brought thousands of Jewish children to safety in Britain.
In 1939, Henry arrived in Glasgow, a nervous teenager separated from his family. However, he found a haven with Mrs. Eta Hurwich, a kind Jewish widow who took him in like her own son. Glasgow became his new home, a city that would forever hold a special place in his heart.
Internment and Finding Love
As a German national, Henry, along with other refugees, was deemed a “dangerous enemy alien” and interned for ten months in harsh conditions. This experience undoubtedly left a mark, but it couldn’t dampen his spirit.
After his release, Henry returned to Glasgow and began to rebuild his life. He met Ingrid Wolff, another Kindertransport survivor, and they fell in love. Together, they started a kosher catering business, a testament to their entrepreneurial spirit and desire to contribute to their adopted city.
A Life Dedicated to Education and Community
Following retirement, Henry and Ingrid devoted themselves to Holocaust education. Their firsthand experiences resonated deeply with students, fostering awareness and a commitment to preventing future atrocities. Henry became a familiar figure in schools across Scotland, sharing his story with honesty and unwavering determination.
His dedication extended beyond Holocaust education. For 28 years, Henry volunteered as a ski instructor with the British Limbless Ex-Serviceman’s Association (BLESMA), helping disabled veterans rediscover the joy of skiing. This remarkable service earned him an MBE (Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire) in 1999, a prestigious recognition of his contributions to society.
A Legacy of Resilience and Kindness
Henry Wuga’s life story is a powerful testament to the human spirit’s ability to overcome adversity. He faced unimaginable challenges yet emerged with a profound gratitude for his new life in Glasgow. He dedicated his later years to educating others and promoting understanding, ensuring that the horrors of the Holocaust would never be forgotten.
His legacy extends far beyond awards and recognition. He leaves behind a community enriched by his presence, a testament to the power of resilience, compassion, and a commitment to making the world a better place.
Here are some additional aspects of Henry Wuga’s life that people might be interested in:
Life Before the War:
Henry’s early life in Nuremberg was relatively normal. He enjoyed school and even attended the same institution as Henry Kissinger (though a year apart). offers a glimpse into his pre-war experiences.
Internment:
Being labelled an “enemy alien” must have been a confusing and frightening experience. The Holocaust Memorial Day Trust provides more details about this challenging period in his life.
Family Life:
Henry and Ingrid raised two daughters, Gillian and Hilary. Their unwavering support undoubtedly played a crucial role in his life and allowed him to dedicate himself to public service.
Glasgow Jewish Community: Henry became a prominent figure within the Glasgow Jewish community. The Scottish Jewish Heritage Centre offers insights into his contributions.
FAQ’S
Who was Henry Wuga?
Born Heinz Martin Wuga in Nuremberg, Germany in 1924, Henry was a Jewish boy who escaped Nazi persecution on a Kindertransport to Glasgow in 1939. He found refuge in the welcoming arms of the city and built a fulfilling life there.
What was the Kindertransport?
The Kindertransport was a heroic rescue operation that brought thousands of Jewish children, primarily from Germany, Austria, Czechoslovakia, and Poland, to safety in Britain before the outbreak of World War II.
Why did Henry come to Glasgow?
With the rise of Nazism, Jewish families desperately sought ways to protect their children. Henry’s mother secured him a place on a Kindertransport to Glasgow, a city with a vibrant Jewish community.
How did Henry settle in Glasgow?
Initially placed with a foster family, Henry eventually found a permanent home with Mrs. Eta Hurwich. Despite the challenges of a new language and culture, he experienced a warm welcome from Glaswegians and even earned a friendly nickname, “57,” after Heinz 57 Baked Beans.
What happened to Henry during World War II?
Evacuated from Glasgow to Perth due to the war, Henry’s letters to his family, unfortunately, led to a misunderstanding. Intercepted by British officials, he was briefly detained on suspicion of “corresponding with the enemy.” This experience, though harrowing, only strengthened his resolve to build a new life in Scotland.
What did Henry do for a living?
After the war, Henry married Ingrid, a fellow Kindertransportee, and together they established a successful kosher catering business. Their hard work and entrepreneurial spirit allowed them to thrive in Glasgow.
How did Henry give back to the community?
In his retirement, Henry became a passionate advocate for Holocaust education. He shared his experiences with countless students and audiences, ensuring the horrors of the past would never be forgotten. Additionally, he volunteered as a ski instructor for disabled veterans and actively supported local charities.
What legacy did Henry leave behind?
Henry Wuga, awarded an MBE (Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire) for his services to Holocaust education, became a symbol of resilience and hope. He embodied the spirit of Glasgow, a city that embraced him as a refugee and allowed him to flourish.
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