Jigsaw Puzzle : Bomb damage, Exeter BB42_00712

EDITORS COMMENTS

This evocative photograph, titled BB42_00712, captures the devastating aftermath of a German air raid on Exeter, Devon, during World War II. The image, taken by Margaret Tomlinson, presents a view towards the remains of a terrace of houses located at numbers 25-36 Southernhay West. The destruction wrought by the bombing is evident in the ruins, with debris scattered haphazardly among the shattered remnants of the once-proud buildings. The Margaret Tomlinson negative register records that this particular damage occurred on the fateful day of May 4, 1942. The terrace, a part of Exeter's rich architectural heritage, was later demolished due to the extensive damage sustained during the raid. The Blitz, as it came to be known, brought widespread destruction to many British cities during the war, with Exeter being no exception. The photograph serves as a poignant reminder of the devastating impact of war on civilian populations. The loss of homes, the disruption of communities, and the emotional toll on the people who lived through these events are all palpable in this image. As we view the ruins, we are reminded of the resilience and determination of those who rebuilt their lives and their cities in the face of adversity. The photograph also underscores the importance of preserving historical records, such as those maintained by Historic England, that help us remember and learn from the past. By documenting the destruction wrought by the bombing, we can better understand the experiences of those who lived through the war and honor their stories. This image is a testament to the power of photography as a means of recording history and bearing witness to the human condition.