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Exeter Cathedral bomb damage BB42_00740
EXETER CATHEDRAL, Devon. On the night of 3-4 May 1942 a bomb fell on the Chapel of St James in the south choir aisle of the cathedral, causing considerable damage to the late 13th-century fabric. Windows have been blown out but scaffolding has been erected to prevent any further collapse. Photographed in May 1942 by Margaret Tomlinson. Historic England is the public body that champions and protects England's historic places. © Historic England
Media ID 1865099
Filename: bb42_00740.jpg
Size: 3800 x 4970 (8.4MB)
Date: 20th November 2009
Source: Historic England
Credit: Historic England Archive
Copyright Status: Copyrighted Work
Source: English Heritage Images
Job Title: Photographer
Blitz Cathedral Destruction War Time Ww 2
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> England at War > England at War 1939-45 > The Blitz
> Historic Images > Historic Images 1920s to 1940s
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EDITORS COMMENTS
Exeter Cathedral, Devon: A Testament to Survival Amidst the Ruins of War This evocative photograph, taken by Margaret Tomlinson in May 1942, captures the aftermath of a devastating bombing raid on Exeter Cathedral during World War II. The image bears witness to the destructive power of war and the indomitable spirit of resilience that endured in the face of such adversity. The Chapel of St James in the south choir aisle of this historic cathedral was the unfortunate target of a bomb that fell on the night of 3-4 May 1942. The late 13th-century fabric of the chapel was severely damaged as a result, with windows blown out and the structure left vulnerable to further collapse. Despite the extensive damage, the cathedral community and local authorities acted swiftly to prevent any further harm. Scaffolding was erected to secure the area and prevent any potential collapse, a testament to the determination to preserve this precious piece of history. This photograph serves as a poignant reminder of the devastating impact of war on cultural heritage sites. Yet, it also underscores the importance of preserving and restoring these sites in the aftermath of destruction. The story of Exeter Cathedral is one of survival and resilience, a testament to the enduring power of human spirit in the face of adversity.
