Women at Work: Brass Fitting Shop in WWI England

This historical photograph, taken between 1915 and 1917, captures women diligently working in a brass fitting shop in England during World War I. As the war escalated, the need for munitions and industrial supplies surged, leading to a significant shift in gender roles. With many men serving on the front lines, women stepped into roles traditionally held by men, proving their capability in various sectors, including manufacturing and engineering.

These women, shown here skillfully handling brass fittings, played a crucial role in the war effort. Their contributions not only helped sustain military operations but also marked a turning point in societys perception of womens work. This image was reproduced in the British pamphlet Carry on: British Womens work in war-time, likely published in 1917, highlighting the importance of womens roles in wartime industries. Such documents served to encourage support for womens employment and recognize their contributions, changing the fabric of the labor force in post-war Britain.

Overall, this photograph is a vivid reminder of the transformative impact of World War I on the workforce, illustrating how necessity opened doors for women and expanded their roles in society.