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Image Licensing : Anti-aircraft platform at Swindon Station c. 1940
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Anti-aircraft platform at Swindon Station c. 1940
An anti-aircraft platform can be seen in this image of Swindon Station, but what is most intriguing is the very small Swindon Junction sign hanging in the centre of the platform canopy. In 1940 precautions were put in place to thwart possible German parachute invaders. For the GWR this meant the removal of station signs, but nationally it included the removal of signposts, milestones and a village signs. The idea was to confuse foreign invaders should they land in the country. This small sign was a means of allowing general passengers a discreet way of identifying where they were. STEAM - Museum of the Great Western Railway. © STEAM Museum of the GWR
Media ID 19929771
Filename: 23.jpg
Size: 2080 x 2759 (985KB)
Date: 25th February 2014
Source: STEAM Museum of the GWR
Unique Reference Number: HWW2-2 069
1940 Station Swindon Swindon Junction Wartime Wiltshire World War 2 Anti Aircraft
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> The Railway at War > Second World War
> Stations and Halts > Wiltshire Stations > Swindon Junction Station
> Stations and Halts > Wiltshire Stations
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This print from the STEAM Museum of the GWR takes us back to a significant moment in history - Swindon Station during World War II. The image showcases an anti-aircraft platform, a stark reminder of the wartime precautions taken to defend against potential German parachute invaders. However, what truly catches the eye is the minuscule Swindon Junction sign hanging discreetly in the center of the platform canopy. In 1940, as part of national efforts to confuse foreign invaders, station signs were removed by Great Western Railway (GWR), along with other signposts and milestones across the country. This small sign served as a clever way for general passengers to identify their location without drawing attention. The photograph encapsulates both the military presence at Swindon Station and this intriguing piece of historical subterfuge. It transports us back to a time when fear loomed over every corner of Britain, and communities rallied together to protect their homeland. As we gaze upon this snapshot frozen in time, we are reminded not only of Swindon's role during World War II but also how ordinary people adapted and played their part in defending their nation. It serves as a poignant testament to resilience and resourcefulness amidst adversity - qualities that defined an era marked by sacrifice and unity.
