Womens Royal Naval Service Collection

Diana of the Uplands, 1903-1904, (1935). Creator: Charles Wellington Furse
Diana of the Uplands, 1903-1904, (1935). Portrait of Dame Katharine Furse (nee Symonds, 1875-1952), wife of the painter, as Diana, goddess of the hunt

Wrens pictured as they join the HMS Brilliant for war duty. 8th October 1990

Parachute packers of the W. R. N. S. testing a parachute at a British Naval Air Station
Parachute packers of the W.R.N.S. testing a parachute at a British Naval Air Station. November 1943

WRNS member Valerie Cruise. 6th March 1983

Members of the various British womens war services, World War II, 1939-1945 (photo)
6015202 Members of the various British womens war services, World War II, 1939-1945 (photo) by English Photographer, (20th century); Private Collection; (add.info)

Women of the WRNS doing skilled jobs such as carpenters and fitters at a Royal Naval Depot show themselves capable craftswomen. Photo shows: A maintenance worker on the turning machine

The Womens Royal Naval Service was the womens branch of the United Kingdoms Royal Navy. First formed in 1917 for the First World War, it was disbanded in 1919

Wrens working at a naval operational centre deep underground, sending and receiving morse code. May 1944

Navy W. R. N.s in flying kit. June 1942
Navy W.R.N.S in flying kit. June 1942

A typical Wren. January 1943

Second Officer H. E. Archdale, better known as Betty Archdale
Second Officer H.E. Archdale, better known as Betty Archdale, who is in charge of the party of Wrens serving in Singapore

W. R. N. S. riveting a submarine web in a Scottish port. May 1943
W.R.N.S. riveting a submarine web in a Scottish port. May 1943

Cheers from Wrens at Devonport Dockyard, Plymouth, following the Commanders statement that war is over. 15th August 1945

POSTER: WRENS, c1942. British poster encouraging women to join the Womens Royal Naval Service, also known as Wrens. Lithograph, c1942

Portrait of a young woman - October 1946
Head and shoulder shot of girl in WRNS uniform with HMS Victory on her cap band. George Garland Collection West Sussex Record Office Ref. No. Garland N27207

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The Women's Royal Naval Service (WRNS) holds a rich history that spans over a century. In 1903, Diana of the Uplands embarked on her journey as one of the first members, paving the way for future generations. Fast forward to 1935, and Charles Wellington Furse immortalized their dedication in his creation. One iconic moment captured was when Wrens joined HMS Brilliant for war duty on October 8th, 1990. Their commitment to serving their country shone brightly during World War II as well. In this photo from that era, members of various British women's war services stand united against adversity. These remarkable women were not confined to traditional roles; they shattered stereotypes by taking up skilled jobs such as carpenters within the WRNS. They proved that gender should never limit one's capabilities or potential. Parachute packers also played an essential role in ensuring safety at British Naval Air Stations during wartime. These brave W. R. N. S tested parachutes with unwavering determination and precision. Even deep underground at naval operational centers, Wrens worked diligently behind the scenes to support vital operations during times of conflict. Their contributions were invaluable and often overlooked but never forgotten. In June 1942, Navy W. R. N. S donned flying kits as they fearlessly took flight into uncharted territories. Their courage soared high above any limitations society imposed upon them. A typical Wren in January 1943 embodied resilience and strength amidst challenging circumstances. Second Officer H. E Archdale, better known as Betty Archdale, became an inspiration for countless others through her unwavering spirit and leadership. May 1943 witnessed W. R. N. S riveting a submarine web in a Scottish port—a testament to their adaptability and resourcefulness even under demanding conditions. The Women's Royal Naval Service will forever be remembered for breaking barriers and proving that gender is no obstacle when it comes to serving one's country.