1974: Birmingham's Canadian Cabins

On an estate in Turves Green, Birmingham a set of prefab homes with a difference appeared. Rather than being constructed with the usual materials used in most kit homes, these bungalows built during the First World War were made of Canadian cedar wood, in the architectural style of the day. In 1916 when the Austin Motor Company won a contract to build aircraft for the war effort, the homes were constructed for the increased workforce in the area. Whilst the homes cost Austin £150 each when they were originally shipped to England, in 1974 the much-loved dwellings were exchanging hands for around £7000.

This clip from Nationwide was originally broadcast on 28 November 1974

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