Image Licensing : Evacuees waiting to leave Paddington Station, 1939

EDITORS COMMENTS

This poignant print from the STEAM Museum of the GWR captures a significant moment in history - a group of eight young boys and girls, on the cusp of leaving London as evacuees during World War II. The image portrays them gathered at Paddington Station, their faces adorned with smiles that belie the weighty emotions they must have been experiencing. In this snapshot frozen in time, we witness a mixture of excitement and trepidation etched upon their innocent faces. These children were about to embark on an uncertain journey to unfamiliar countryside destinations, away from their families and everything they knew. As war raged across London's streets, these brave souls were being sent away for their safety. The contrast between their laughter and the gravity of their situation is strikingly evident. Behind those joyful expressions surely lay fear and anxiety about what awaited them beyond those station walls. It was undoubtedly a daunting experience for these youngsters who had yet to fully comprehend the magnitude of war. This evocative photograph serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by countless children during wartime evacuations. It encapsulates both resilience and vulnerability, capturing an indelible moment in history when innocence collided with harsh reality. As we gaze upon this image today, let us remember those who endured such upheaval during World War II – forever grateful for their bravery while acknowledging that even amidst adversity, laughter can still shine through darkness.