Home > Historic > World War I and II > Soldiers
Woman driver transports soldiers to accommodation in London
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Woman driver transports soldiers to accommodation in London
A female driver patrolling the streets of London, on the look-out for soldiers or sailors on leave in the capital who may not have anywhere to stay for the evening. These cars would drive around and pick up men in order to take them any YMCA hut or club which could provide accommodation. Sometimes, huts were so full, men had to sleep on the floor, but there was a roof over their heads and often food and recreational facilities available.
1917
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 14157627
© Mary Evans Picture Library
Accommodation Capital Driver Drivers Leave Patrolling Pick Picking Transports Ymca
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> London
> Related Images
> Historic
> World War I and II
> Soldiers
EDITORS COMMENTS
A Woman's Mission: Providing Comfort and Shelter during WWI London's bustling streets in 1917 were filled with the sounds of clattering horse hooves and roaring motor engines. Amidst the chaos, a woman driver, with determination in her eyes and a steering wheel in her hands, stood out. She was part of a network of women drivers who patrolled the streets of London, on the lookout for soldiers or sailors on leave in the capital who may not have anywhere to stay for the evening. These women would drive around in their cars, picking up men in need and transporting them to the nearest YMCA hut or club, which could provide accommodation. The First World War had left many young men displaced and homeless, and the YMCA huts and clubs served as a vital lifeline, offering not only a roof over their heads but also food and recreational facilities. However, the demand for accommodation often outstripped supply, and men had to sleep on the floor. Yet, the women drivers' selfless acts brought a sense of comfort and hope to these soldiers and sailors, who were far from home and facing the uncertainties of war. This photograph captures the spirit of one such woman driver, who was dedicated to making a difference in the lives of these brave men. Her car, a symbol of mobility and freedom, became a beacon of hope for those in need, reminding them that they were not alone. The image stands as a testament to the resilience and compassion of the women who played a crucial role in supporting the war effort, providing a vital service that went beyond the battlefield.
MADE IN AUSTRALIA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
FREE COLORIZATION SERVICE
You can choose advanced AI Colorization for this picture at no extra charge!
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.