Lumberjills: Britain's Forgotten Army

During World War II, the British government allowed women to work in the timber industry, which was critical to the war effort. The Womens Timber Corps had thousands of members who were strong and smart and fought for respect and equality. This is their story, told for the first time by researcher Joanna Foat.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 04 March 2019
Publisher: The History Press Ltd

When war was declared in 1939, Britain found itself almost completely reliant on imported timber, with only a seven-month stockpile. Timber, a vital resource for the war effort, was required for various purposes, including aircraft and shipbuilding, communications, and coal mining. The British timber trade faced challenges, and the government had to take drastic measures.

Recognizing the lack of men and timber, the government reluctantly decided to allow women to enter the lumber work. The result was the formation of the Womens Timber Corps (WTC), which consisted of thousands of members who were as strong and intelligent as any man. These women took on challenging tasks such as felling and crosscutting trees by hand, operating sawmills, and managing entire forestry sites.

While the Womens Timber Corps may not have been on the front line, they fought their own battles on the home front. They sought respect and equality, challenging societal norms and breaking gender barriers. Despite the heavy labor and the pressures of wartime, they formed firm friendships and even found soulmates.

In her book "Lumberjills," researcher Joanna Foat tells the story of these remarkable women for the first time, providing them with the recognition they truly deserve. The WTC's contributions to the war effort were significant, and their legacy continues to inspire women today. Their determination, resilience, and ability to overcome challenges serve as a testament to the strength and resilience of women in times of adversity.

Weight: 432g
Dimension: 238 x 169 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780750990905