Family Album to Entertain

From the collection of

Screen Archive South East at the University of Brighton collects, preserves, catalogues and provides public access to its collection of films and magic lantern slides. The collection charts the rise of screen culture in the region and the nation and captures many aspects of life, work and creativity in the South East from the late 19th century to the present day. It is available for research, screenings, creative re-use and commercial access.

Family Album to Entertain

Screen Archive South East at the University of Brighton
Broadwater
1940-01-01
Silent
14m

Life in Broadwater seems unaffected by the war in this film - especially when friends and relations drop by - though a closer look reveals that all is not quite what it seems.

This candid home-movie shows how ordinary people carried on despite the war. Filmed mainly around Goldsmiths Road in Broadwater, near Worthing, the films shows family members and friends enjoying themselves both in and outside the home. West Highland terriers are seen in the garden with a litter of newly-born puppies. There are views of nearby streets and houses, some of which have anti-blast on their windows, while in shopping areas ARP shelter signs can be seen.

Life Under Fire

The horror of Luftwaffe bombs coloured daily life in Britain's cities and beyond, and war brought myriad daily hardships besides. But Britain could take it!

The Blitz receded after May 1941, but even after the Battle of Britain, the nation faced a barrage of incendiary bombs, V-1s and V-2s. While young men fought Axis powers across three continents, their families listened anxiously to the wireless, while many worried too about children far from home. But in the face of the destruction, sirens, blackouts and hours in shelters, the now-legendary 'Blitz spirit' kept despair at bay. Britain held her nerve thanks to mutual support, defiance and wit - plus a good grumble and as many cups of tea as rationing allowed.