Home > STEAM Museum of the GWR > People > War Workers
Female employees at Swindon Works making lamps, c. 1940
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from STEAM Museum
Female employees at Swindon Works making lamps, c. 1940
A larger group of female employees have been photographed here engaged in the making of lamps at Swindon Works. The tin lamp bodies and glass lenses are neatly stacked on the workbench awaiting assembly. The mass employment of women posed many challenges for the GWR, not least in the provision of suitable facilities such as toilets and rest rooms. In 1943 a Womans Welfare Supervisor, Miss Brennan, was appointed by the GWR to advise on such matters and to champion the use of women in all areas of the organisation
STEAM - Museum of the Great Western Railway
Media ID 19938911
Female Swindon Works Women World War 2 War Work
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> 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
> Second World War
> STEAM Museum of the GWR
> The Railway at War
> STEAM Museum of the GWR
> Swindon Works
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases a larger group of determined female employees at Swindon Works, diligently engaged in the production of lamps during the 1940s. The workbench is adorned with neatly stacked tin lamp bodies and glass lenses, eagerly awaiting assembly by these skilled women. However, this image also sheds light on the challenges faced by the Great Western Railway (GWR) due to mass employment of women during World War II. As more and more women joined the workforce, suitable facilities like toilets and rest rooms became pressing concerns for GWR management. Recognizing this need, in 1943 Miss Brennan was appointed as a Womans Welfare Supervisor by GWR to address such matters and advocate for equal opportunities for women across all areas of their organization. In an era where gender roles were being redefined amidst wartime demands, this photograph symbolizes both resilience and progress. These dedicated female workers played a vital role in supporting their country's war efforts while simultaneously breaking barriers within traditionally male-dominated industries. As we gaze upon this historical snapshot from STEAM Museum of the GWR, let us appreciate not only the craftsmanship displayed but also acknowledge the significant contributions made by these remarkable women who defied societal norms to shape a brighter future for generations to come.
MADE IN THE UK
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
FREE COLORIZATION SERVICE
You can choose advanced AI Colorization for this picture at no extra charge!
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Basket.
