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Blackout, meal by candlelight, 1949
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Blackout, meal by candlelight, 1949
Once again the victims of an unofficial strike: the long-suffering public. Recalling the inconveniences of the long wartime blackout: people having a meal by candlelight at a Clapham restaurant in December 1949. The strike was of London power station workers at Barking (at this time Europes largest generating unit). Date: 1949
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Media ID 23041434
© Illustrated London News Ltd/Mary Evans
1949 Blackout Candlelight Dinner Eating Economy Electricity Fuel Meal Oct17 Restaurant Restaurants Shortage Shortages Strike Blackouts
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EDITORS COMMENTS
A Moment of Resilience: Dining in the Dark - A Blackout Meal at a Clapham Restaurant, 1949 Amidst the backdrop of post-war recovery and economic instability, the people of Britain once again found themselves in the grips of an unexpected hardship. In December 1949, London was plunged into darkness as power station workers at Barking, Europe's largest generating unit, went on an unofficial strike. The ensuing blackout brought back haunting memories of the long, dark wartime nights, as the city was once again left in the dark. This evocative photograph captures the spirit of resilience and community that defined the British people during these challenging times. Taken at a restaurant in Clapham, the image shows diners enjoying a meal by candlelight, their faces illuminated by the flickering flames. The simple act of sharing a meal in the midst of darkness serves as a reminder of the human connection that can be forged even in the most trying of circumstances. The blackout, a stark reminder of the fuel and energy shortages that continued to plague the economy, brought a sense of unity to the city. People came together to support one another, sharing stories and laughter as they waited for the power to be restored. The image of a meal by candlelight became a symbol of hope and determination, a testament to the indomitable spirit of the British people in the face of adversity. As we look at this photograph, taken over seven decades ago, we are reminded of the resilience and resourcefulness of the human spirit. The simple act of sharing a meal by candlelight in the midst of darkness serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of community and the ability to adapt to even the most challenging of circumstances.
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