
The pioneering Women's Land Army of the Great War years aimed to recruit women largely from wealthier backgrounds for the first time, although this was not always the case! For the many women who worked in mainly towns and cities, in well-paid jobs or didn't work at all prior to the war, they were strongly encouraged to come and work on the land, (often for the first time) in large numbers.
Officially formed in February 1917, the women that eventually went on to join the Women's Land Army during the First World War enabled vital food production to continue on the Home Front. Their efforts attempted to fill the enormous void left by men who had gone to serve overseas; men who had previously worked in farming and agriculture. The chief purpose of the Great War Women's Land Army was to stave off the very real threat of starvation to the British population by turning more land over to cultivation, whilst continuing to farm existing land. This threat to food supply was caused by the devastating impact German U-boat attacks had on Allied merchant shipping.
Helen presents a fully illustrated talk, enhanced by numerous artefacts and photos, which tells the story of this remarkable group of women.
Any new visitors are guaranteed a friendly atmosphere and a warm welcome from a group of like-minded enthusiasts.