Last Update:
25th June 2011
Blaenavon Heritage Railway 1940s Weekend, 9th & 10th July
This year, for the first time, Blaenavon Heritage Railway held it’s 1940s weekend in partnership with Blaenavon Town. A 1940s dance, held in the Workmens Hall in Blaenavon on Saturday night was a resounding success.
Saturday saw wartime cooking demonstrations in the town along with and invitation to visit the ‘Allo Allo’ Café. There were special excursion trains into Blaenavon town from Furnace Sidings Station. United States Military Police from the railway event visited the town in their Jeeps, causing a stir among the ladies!
The railway site hosted the 25th Bomb Disposal Core, Royal Engineers LHG. They gave demonstrations on bomb disposal techniques through the years and surprised everyone with a loud explosion to show how things can go wrong.
There was a variety of military vehicles present, British and American, as well as troops from both countries. A small contingent of German Officers and lower ranks attended as POW’s.
Wartime food was on offer in the Tea Room and on the train with Spam Sandwiches, Bread Pudding and Camp Coffee being the most popular. All the railway staff dressed to impress in their best 1940s uniforms.
One highlight of the weekend was a bombed-out house, complete with coal fire, authentic 1940s furniture, and a garden all lovingly tended by it’s lady occupant. Smart Alec, a Spiv from England, turned up to sell ‘under the counter’ goods from a battered suitcase. Among the many stalls and displays that attended, Vintage Vision from Blaenavon had a selection of 1940s fashion and accessories for sale. A model railway layout from the war era was on display throughout the weekend. Children also got a free wartime sweet ration.
Alex Hinshelwood from Blaenavon Heritage Railway said, “This weekend was a great success and everyone seemed to be having a fantastic time.”
Next events at the railway: 23rd & 24th July: Model Railway Show Ivor the Engine 13th & 14th August