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Framed Print : Swindon Works Polishing Shop in 1914

Swindon Works Polishing Shop in 1914



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Swindon Works Polishing Shop in 1914

A photograph taken on 7th August 1914 of the Polishing Shop in the Carriage and Wagon Works. French polishing was a skilled trade and from the 1870s women had proven themselves to be highly capable in this role. They were given their own women-only workshop and by the 1890s were officially termed French Polishers. This was equal to their male counterparts. In December 1916 a directive was sent out to convert part of the Polishing Shop for the manufacture of aeroplanes. Whether or not these women had a part to play in this we do not know, but they would have come in close proximity to this extraordinary sight

STEAM - Museum of the Great Western Railway

Media ID 20172656

© STEAM Museum of the GWR

Swindon Works Women World War 1 Aeroplanes Polishing


14"x12" (38x32cm) Modern Frame

Introducing the latest addition to our Media Storehouse Framed Prints collection: a captivating photograph of the Swindon Works Polishing Shop in 1914 from STEAM Museum of the Great Western Railway. This evocative black-and-white image transport us back in time, offering a glimpse into the meticulous world of French polishing in the Carriage and Wagon Works. Skilled artisans can be seen diligently working on wooden surfaces, preserving the elegance and beauty of railway carriages. Our high-quality framed print brings the history and craftsmanship of this bygone era into your home or office, making it an exquisite and thought-provoking conversation starter.

Wood effect frame, card mounted, 10x8 archival quality photo print. Overall outside dimensions 14x12 inches (38x32cm). Environmentally and ozone friendly, 40mm wide x 15mm Polycore® moulding has the look of real wood, is durable and light and easy to hang. Biodegradable and made with non-chlorinated gases (no toxic fumes) it is efficient; producing 100 tons of polystyrene can save 300 tons of trees! Prints are glazed with lightweight, shatterproof, optical clarity acrylic (providing the same general protection from the environment as glass). The back is stapled hardboard with a sawtooth hanger attached. Note: To minimise original artwork cropping, for optimum layout, and to ensure print is secure, the visible print may be marginally smaller

Contemporary Framed and Mounted Prints - Professionally Made and Ready to Hang

Estimated Image Size (if not cropped) is 24.4cm x 20.3cm (9.6" x 8")

Estimated Product Size is 37.6cm x 32.5cm (14.8" x 12.8")

These are individually made so all sizes are approximate

Artwork printed orientated as per the preview above, with landscape (horizontal) orientation to match the source image.


FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS

> Europe > France > Military

> Transportation > Aeroplanes

> STEAM Museum of the GWR > People > War Workers

> STEAM Museum of the GWR > People > Women

> STEAM Museum of the GWR > People > Workers at Swindon Works

> STEAM Museum of the GWR > The Railway at War > First World War

> STEAM Museum of the GWR > The Railway at War

> STEAM Museum of the GWR > Swindon Works > Carriage and Wagon Works


EDITORS COMMENTS
This print from 1914 showcases the Polishing Shop at Swindon Works, a hub of activity and craftsmanship. Stepping back in time, we witness the skilled artistry of French polishing, a trade that had become synonymous with women's capabilities since the 1870s. Recognizing their talent, these remarkable women were granted their own workshop within the Carriage and Wagon Works. By the 1890s, they earned official recognition as French Polishers on par with their male counterparts—a testament to gender equality even during those times. As we delve deeper into this historical snapshot, it remains unclear whether these talented women played a role in an extraordinary turn of events. In December 1916, an unexpected directive transformed part of this very shop into a manufacturing center for aeroplanes—an endeavor tied to World War I efforts. While we cannot ascertain if these pioneering women contributed directly to this transition, it is certain that they would have been in close proximity to witness this awe-inspiring sight. This photograph not only captures a moment frozen in time but also symbolizes the resilience and adaptability displayed by individuals during periods of immense change. It serves as a reminder that history is shaped not only by grand events but also by everyday people who rise above challenges and leave indelible marks on our collective memory.

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