Image Licensing : No 9 Shop, Sewing Room, 1930

EDITORS COMMENTS

This print from the STEAM Museum of the GWR takes us back to the bustling No 9 Shop in Swindon Works during the 1930s. The image showcases a vibrant scene filled with around thirty industrious women, all dedicated to their respective tasks in this female sewing room. On the left side of the photograph, a row of focused women can be seen diligently operating sewing machines. Their nimble fingers expertly maneuver fabric under needles, stitching together intricate patterns and garments that would soon grace carriages and trains. The rhythmic hum of these machines fills the air as they contribute to the production line. Meanwhile, on the other side of this workshop, their colleagues are engaged in an equally important task – making ropes and cords using horse hair and twine. With skilled hands and meticulous attention to detail, these women twist strands together, forming strong cords that will serve various purposes within railway operations. The atmosphere within No 9 Shop is one of camaraderie and dedication as these female workers collaborate seamlessly to meet production demands. This snapshot offers a glimpse into an era when gender roles were shifting, showcasing how women played vital roles in traditionally male-dominated industries like carriage works. Through this powerful image captured nearly a century ago, we witness not only their hard work but also their resilience and determination in shaping history. It serves as a testament to their invaluable contributions during an era defined by progress and change within Swindon Works' rich heritage.