Home > Transportation > Aeroplanes
Swindon Works Polishing Shop in 1914
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from STEAM Museum
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
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
> 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.
MADE IN THE USA
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 Cart.
