Home > STEAM Museum of the GWR > People > War Workers
Tanks under construction in A Erecting Shop, Swindon Works. 1941
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from STEAM Museum
Tanks under construction in A Erecting Shop, Swindon Works. 1941
One of the earliest tasks contracted to the GWR by the Ministry of Supply was the erection of tanks for supply overseas. Thousands of tank components were being made by all the British railway companies during the initial years of the war, and this image of A Erecting shop at Swindon Works taken in June 1941 shows some of those components being brought together to form the body of 25-27 ton tanks. The tanks under construction are Infantry Tank Mark II, or Matilda II, as they were commonly known. They were difficult and complex tanks to build and required a skilled workforce with specialist machinery to correctly manufacture this model
STEAM - Museum of the Great Western Railway
Media ID 19929723
Swindon Works Tank World War 2
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> STEAM Museum of the GWR
> People
> War Workers
> 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
> Locomotive Works
> A Shop
> STEAM Museum of the GWR
> Swindon Works
> Locomotive Works
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print takes us back to the heart of World War II, specifically to June 1941 at the A Erecting Shop in Swindon Works. The image showcases a pivotal moment in history when the Great Western Railway (GWR) was tasked by the Ministry of Supply with constructing tanks for overseas deployment. As we delve into this snapshot frozen in time, we witness an amalgamation of thousands of tank components meticulously brought together by skilled workers and specialist machinery. These components seamlessly merge to form the robust body of Infantry Tank Mark II, affectionately known as Matilda II. The construction process is nothing short of awe-inspiring; it highlights both the complexity and difficulty involved in building these formidable war machines. It is evident that every detail has been carefully considered, ensuring utmost precision throughout production. Swindon Works stands as a testament to British railway companies' collective effort during those initial years of war. This bustling hub became a vital cog in Britain's defense mechanism, churning out tanks that would ultimately play a crucial role on foreign battlefields. This print serves as a poignant reminder not only of GWR's significant contribution but also pays homage to all those who dedicated their skills and expertise towards safeguarding our nation during one of its darkest hours.
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.
