Figure 1.--Here evacuee children some where along the coast of East Anglia are being treated to a Punch and Judy Show--a popular seaside treat. The photograph was delivered to America by Clipper. The press caption read, "Fun for Britain's Child Evacuees: Gleeful British children enjoying a Punch and Judy show at the British East coast town to where thry were evacuated from the cities. Soon after this picture was taken, they were removed to places farther inland in fear of German aerial bombings of coastal cities, such as those that have already occurred." The photograph was dated May 27, 1940 just as the Dunkirk evacuations were beginning. The children are at a beach. The Channekl Coast beaches had already been closed off. With the Germanb victories in France and Norway, now the East Coast beaches also had to be closed off and mined. It would be 4 years before British children could enjoy the beaches again.

Not all the September 1939 evacuees returned home from the reception areas when German bombings did not occurr. Many did, but about 25 percent of the children still remained in their evacuation billets after Christmas. Most of these childen wanted to come home as well, but their parents resisted tearful letters and insisted they stay put. There were various reasons, mostly continued fear of German bombing. Authorities in many evacuatins towns a villages tried to look after them in various ways. And as part of this effort, over 0.1 million teachers and other helpers were sent along with the children and had to locate. The teachers and helpers sent letters home helping to put the parents at ease and telling them what the children needed such as washing things, clean clothes, sturdy shoes , and a favourite toy or book. Host families might help with this as well. Unlike the children who returned home, most of the teachers and helpers remained in place. The care and supervision of the children in their billets varied quite a bit, depending on the individuals. Evacuees could go to the movies. They also received sweets and parties were organized. Many city children were fascinated by the countryside. There were all kinds of surprises such as cows and pigs. Most younger city children had no idea where milk came from. And they say vegetables growing in gardens. One boy famously complained about all the dirt, 'ours come in tins'. The evacuee children also benefitted from activities organized by host families, this again varied from family to family. Some of the host families were not caring, but most were to various degrees.

Created: 4:19 AM 6/11/2013
Last updated: 4:19 AM 6/11/2013