Women Interned in World War Two Sumatra: Faith, Hope and Survival

Before Singapore's capitulation in 1942, thousands of women and children attempted to flee, but many drowned. Margaret Dryburgh and Shelagh Brown, two women who were interned in camps in Sumatra, met and sang the Captives Hymn together. They also formed a Vocal Orchestra with other internees, using women's voices instead of instruments, which lifted their spirits and provided a sense of freedom. This true account, based on personal diaries and family documents, traces their journey from childhood to adulthood and internment, showcasing their courage, tenacity, perseverance, and humor in the face of adversity.

Format: Hardback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 06 July 2022
Publisher: Pen & Sword Books Ltd

Thousands of women and children found themselves trapped in Singapore as the Japanese forces closed in on the city-state on February 15, 1942. Their desperate goal was to escape and reach safety, but their hopes were often dashed as ships were bombed and sunk on their way to freedom. Many perished in the treacherous waters, leaving behind families and loved ones who never knew what happened to them.

Among those who managed to survive the harrowing journey were two very different women named Margaret Dryburgh and Shelagh Brown. Margaret was a missionary and teacher, while Shelagh was a secretary at the Singapore Naval Base. Their paths crossed briefly before the catastrophic events of 1942, but they would meet again in internment camps throughout Sumatra.

The Captives Hymn, composed by Margaret Dryburgh, was initially sung by herself, along with Shelagh Brown and their friend Dorothy MacLeod, on July 5, 1942. The hymn has since been sung at services throughout internment and continues to be sung at services around the world. Music and faith played a crucial role in both Margaret and Shelagh's lives, providing solace and inspiration during the darkest days of their captivity.

In a remarkable partnership, Margaret and fellow internee Norah Chambers produced a Vocal Orchestra using women's voices in place of instruments. The orchestra's first performance stunned the entire camp, as they had never heard anything so beautiful and momentarily made them feel free and floating away with the music. The women's creative talents and unwavering spirit lifted the spirits of everyone in the camp, providing a glimmer of hope and joy in the midst of despair.

This true account, using personal diaries and family documents, traces Margaret Dryburgh and Shelagh Brown's journey from childhood through to adulthood and internment. It explores the impact of early life experiences on adult life and the resilience and determination that helped them survive the harsh conditions of internment.

Margaret Dryburgh and Shelagh Brown's story is a testament to the human spirit's enduring power and the strength of community in the face of adversity. Their journey reminds us of the importance of never giving up hope, even in the darkest of times, and the power of music and creativity to bring joy and healing to those who are suffering.

Weight: 610g
Dimension: 164 x 241 x 34 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781526787750