An exhibition showcasing the role of women and the railway during World War I has opened at Charing Cross station in London.

The exhibition is on until 10 August when it will move to King’s Cross station where it can be seen until 31 August.

The railway was vital to the war effort, transporting troops, horses, military equipment and medical supplies to ports around the country.

Women were crucial to this, keeping the railway running by filling the skills shortage when 100,000 railway workers left to fight in the war.

Before the war, roughly 13,000 women worked on the railway, mainly in domestic positions. By the end of the war, this number had increased fivefold to some 70,000 women.

Memorabilia

The exhibition contains photos from the National Railway Museum, soldiers’ letters and unique memorabilia as well as the opportunity to take part in the British Legion’s Everyman Remembered project which aims to commemorate every individual who died in World War I.
It is presented by the Rail Delivery Group, which brings together Network Rail and the train operators.

Touring exhibition

Phil Hufton, managing director of operations, said:
Without the contribution of women, the railway could not have played such a significant part in the war effort. We owe a great debt to them and to the thousands of railway workers who fought.

It is important for us to know their stories and ensure they are not forgotten.

This exhibition, which will be touring the country, has been created by the rail industry as a reminder to us all.

Next destination

Further locations for the touring exhibition are listed on the RDG website
National Railway Museum
Every Man Remembered – a project to keep alive the memory of those who fell in the First World War.

(Source: Network Rail)