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World War II

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Life in Watford was transformed by the outbreak of WW2, with many local men conscripted, rationing and industry refocused to work on the war effort.  Life on the Home Front was not easy, but it was a time of community and when war ended in 1945 Watford's celebrations were memorable.

3 aircraft taking part in National Service Demonstration in Cassiobury Park May 1939

Women registering

Woman painting kerb, help during blackout

War Weapons Week display at the pond, The Parade May 1941

War Weapons Week display at the pond, The Parade May 1941

VE Day street party

Troops march past the Mayor, top of High Street

Newspaper Headlines 4 Sept 1939

Interior of Anderson Shelter

Infantry march past The Parade 13 May 1944

Home Guard by Central Baths

Home Guard Award Ceremony

German Aircraft rear of High St near Red Lion Yard

Evacuees Watford Junction

Evacuees Watford Junction (1939)

Evacuees arriving at Watford Junction Sept 1939

Evacuee children at play on Chorleywood Common, Sept 1939

Demonstration of Air raid Wardens Protective equipment

Children in gas masks

Chaters School making Ration Cards

Books for Salvage

Bomb damage Weymouth Street

Bomb damage Weymouth Street

Bomb damage Tudor Avenue Nov 1940

Bomb damage Sandringham Road 30 July 1944

Bomb damage Sandringham Road 30 July 1944

Bomb damage Greycaines Factory

Anderson Shelter Delivery, 1939 or 40 Mildred Ave

Air Raid Siren, North Watford 1938

343rd Watford Field Battery 1938

Bomb damage Sandringham Road 30 July 1944

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