Memories of a shorthand typist.

This story was submitted to the People’s War Site by Three Counties Action, on behalf of Margaret Chatham, and has been added to the site with her permission. The author fully understands the site’s terms and conditions.

I am 82 years old and at the age of 16 (nearly 17) was living near Birmingham. We had moved there in 1937 for my Father to work in Aircraft at the newly opened Shadow Factory just by the then Austin Car Works in Waybridge. My two brothers and sister were older than me. Mary was training as a nurse, Alfred working at the Post Office, Ian as an Austin Tool Room apprentice. I was working as a Shorthand Typist at the then Aerial Motor Cycle Factory, Sally Oak. My Father was very practically minded and said in 1938 “There will be a war; if you boys join Volunteer Reserves at least you will be serving in your choice of the services.” Alfred was accepted for the R.A.F (UR) and in due course became a Spitfire Pilot. Ian went to the R.A.O.C later the R.E.M.E and Mary duly finished her nursing probation. Both the boys were called up on 1st September. I was with my father at Elmdon Airport on Sunday the 3rd when war was announced over the tannoy. My sister joined the Queen Alexandra’s Nursing Service later and served in the Middle-East. Ian went through Dunkirk and also served in the Middle-East. War ended they both enifiated Alfred (who was very beloved) was shot down over France in June 1941 while taking photographs of the Invasion Ports (I have visited his grave). This is just one family story; there are thousands. It is still as clear to me as yesterday. I didn’t get called up as for family reasons (to begin with). I became a post-office worker Telegraphist and Counter Clerk. We all did our Fire Watching on night in six in the centre if Birmingham. There was a great comradeship amongst everyone, humour against adversity — caring and kindness. I still miss my family. They were very worthwhile and very lovely.

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