Catalogue

Interview
1422, EV/007
Evacuees Collection

Speaker: Watchorn, Dorothy, 1935 - , Interviewee, Female,
Speaker: Ward, C., Interviewer, Female

Summary of interview item: Recalls life in Tottenham, North London just prior to Second World War. Describes the Blitz in London in September 1940, including being dug out of air raid shelter. Recants scene of chaos recalled by her mother and confusion of evacuation. Recalls arrival at Melton school, Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire. Describes waiting for people to select her mother, sisters and self and being split up. Describes house they were billeted in and attitude of owners. Mentions how restricted her mother was in caring for her children. Comments on attitudes of village people towards evacuees. Mentions move to Middle Street and being joined by father. Describes death of father at Ordinance factory, subsequent court case and impact of father's death. Recalls mother's earnings and work as a hosiery outworker. Mentions Langer Airfield and plane crashing. Recalls looting after bombing. Describes Hose Primary school and how evacuees stuck together. Describes neighbours and food. Comments on the hardship experienced after father died. Mentions staying on after war ended and how they would have returned to London if father had lived.
Place of birth: Tottenham, London
Education: Hose Primary school, Melton Mowbray
Marital Status: Married, Children:
Father's Occupation: Railway fitter
Mother's Occupation: Housewife
Location: County: Leicestershire
Location: Town/Place: Melton Mowbray
Periods Covered: 1940s,
Language: English

Recording Date: 1/1/2001
Playing time: 25 mins
Access Restrictions: Restricted Item Copyright: EMOHA
Summary: Yes
Transcription: No
Copies: yes
Cross Reference:

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Last updated: 08/05/02 East Midland Oral History Archive Web maintainer This document has been approved by the head of department or section.