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Bomb damage to Bowden Hall locomotive at Keyham Station, 1941
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Bomb damage to Bowden Hall locomotive at Keyham Station, 1941
This image was taken on 30th April 1941, the morning after an air raid at Keyham Station, Plymouth. It shows extensive damage to Hall Class locomotive, Bowden Hall, after a bomb landed just feet away from the right side of the cab. The driver and fireman had a lucky escape as they had been sheltering under the steps of the signalbox when the bomb was dropped. Their entire cab was destroyed. The signalbox also suffered significant damage, with all but a few windows smashed in the explosion
STEAM - Museum of the Great Western Railway
Media ID 19929931
© STEAM Museum of the GWR
Air Raid Bomb Bomb Damage Hall Class Plymouth Signal Box World War 2
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This poignant print captures the devastating aftermath of an air raid on Keyham Station in Plymouth during World War II. Taken on 30th April 1941, it vividly portrays the extensive damage inflicted upon the Hall Class locomotive named Bowden Hall. The bomb's impact was chillingly close to the right side of the cab, obliterating it entirely and leaving behind a scene of destruction. Remarkably, both the driver and fireman narrowly escaped tragedy as they sought refuge under the steps of the signalbox just moments before disaster struck. Their survival can only be described as miraculous considering their cab was completely annihilated by this merciless attack. The image also reveals significant damage suffered by the signalbox itself, with nearly all its windows shattered in this explosive onslaught. It serves as a stark reminder of how war indiscriminately ravages even non-combatant areas, leaving no structure unscathed. Preserved within STEAM Museum of GWR's collection, this photograph stands as a testament to those who endured such harrowing experiences during World War II. It encapsulates not only the physical destruction caused by bombs but also symbolizes resilience and hope amidst unimaginable adversity. As we reflect upon this haunting image, let us remember those affected by conflict and honor their courage in facing these dark times head-on.
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