The Secret Role of Barn Mill, Carrickfergus in WWII: Manufacturing Fake Parachutists for D-Day Deception

On 27th September 1944, the quiet town of Carrickfergus in Northern Ireland played host to one of the more unusual and ingenious operations of World War II. Inside Barn Mill, workers weren’t making uniforms or weapons — they were building fake parachutists, designed to confuse enemy forces and support the Allied war effort in a unique way.

The Strategy Behind Fake Paratroopers

As part of a wider military deception strategy, these dummy parachutists—sometimes nicknamed “Rupert” by the British forces—were created to simulate real airborne landings. Dropped from aircraft in large numbers, they were used during major operations like D-Day and beyond to divert German troops away from actual landing zones.

These decoys were lightweight, human-shaped figures fitted with parachutes. From a distance, especially at night or in poor weather, they looked indistinguishable from real soldiers. Some even came equipped with small sound devices or explosives to further enhance the illusion.

Barn Mill’s Wartime Contribution

Barn Mill in Carrickfergus was one of several locations across the UK repurposed for the war effort. What made this site notable was its role in producing deception devices rather than conventional arms or supplies.

On 27th September 1944, records show the facility actively manufacturing these dummy parachutists. The work was top secret at the time, with strict security protocols in place. Today, it’s a fascinating piece of local wartime history, highlighting the creativity and resourcefulness of the Allied forces—and the crucial support provided by towns far from the front lines.

The Impact of Military Deception in WWII

Military deception operations, including the use of fake parachutists, played a crucial role in Operation Fortitude, which supported the Normandy landings on D-Day, June 6th, 1944. By simulating large troop movements and landings in places like Pas-de-Calais, the Allies successfully misled German forces and helped reduce casualties in the real invasion zones.

These tactics saved countless lives and sped up the liberation of Europe. Facilities like Barn Mill, though often overlooked in mainstream history, were vital to the success of these operations.

Remembering Carrickfergus’ Hidden History

Today, the story of Barn Mill’s contribution to WWII remains an important reminder of how even small towns played significant roles in shaping world events. The manufacture of fake parachutists is just one example of the wartime innovation and strategic thinking that defined the Allied victory.

As we continue to uncover and share these stories, we not only honour those who served on the front lines but also those who worked tirelessly behind the scenes—in mills, factories, and workshops—using skill and ingenuity to outsmart the enemy.