Rare Photograph Sparks Book on Kingsclere’s WWII Contributions

An 82-year-old photograph depicting the Kingsclere Home Guard unit has inspired a new publication highlighting the Hampshire village’s substantial contributions during the Second World War. The original black and white image, taken in 1942, features thirty-three members of the local Home Guard and was discovered over 500 miles away in Scotland by a relative of one of the men. After sending the photograph to the Kingsclere Local History Association, historians embarked on an extensive research project to uncover the village’s wartime role.

Gareth Martin, secretary of the Kingsclere Local History Association, described the moment of discovery: “A lady in Scotland found a photo. A Home Guard picture. We had seen a copy but she sent the original, and on the back were the names – initials and surnames. That sent me on a bit of a hunt.”

The quest for information began in February, leading to the unveiling of numerous details about the Home Guard unit and its connection to the Land Army, which included recruits from places such as Southampton, Portsmouth, London, Staffordshire, and Yorkshire. Martin noted that twelve of these recruits eventually married local men from Kingsclere.

The research prompted various community events, including a VE Day exhibition and village walking tours. As the association gathered more information, it became clear that their findings warranted a dedicated publication. The result is “Kingsclere in WW2,” a comprehensive 56-page booklet that documents the village’s remarkable contributions during the conflict.

The publication delves into several significant topics, including the Royal Observer Corps, the Naval Ordnance Proofing Range, billeted soldiers, the bombing range, the welcome home events, and the war memorial. Martin expressed his surprise at the volume of positive activities that took place, stating, “I was really quite surprised. But there was an awful lot of good things going on.”

Among the noteworthy discoveries was the impressive work of the local YMCA Canteen, which is believed to have served over one million meals during its six years of operation. The canteen provided around 450 meals a day to troops stationed locally and regiments passing through, playing a vital role in supporting convoys headed for the coast in preparation for D-Day in June 1944, when Allied forces invaded Normandy.

Martin emphasized the importance of remembering these contributions, stating, “All of this has kind of been forgotten. And it shouldn’t be. Kingsclere really played its part.”

The commemorative publication is priced at £8 and can be purchased from Swan Street Stores. It is also available for order via eBay or by contacting the association directly at [email protected]. This initiative not only highlights the village’s historical significance but also serves as a reminder of the community’s resilience and dedication during challenging times.