Stumbled across this site whilst doing some research for an historical novel I am working on. Really finding it difficult to obtain information about the impact of the airfield construction programme on rural communities during World War 2. Hoping you guys may be able to offer some assistance or point me in the right direction.
I am 57, married for nearly 36 years with two grown up children and run my own business. Researching for an historical novel has consumed me for the last year and I am now reaching the stage where I can begin to write. I have more than a passing interest in aviation history, especially The Mighty Eighth.
I don't know specifics but my first thoughts are :
NEGATIVES
Loss of farming land (requisitioning)
Loss of roads/paths - longer journey
Requsitioned houses/buildings
Billeting of personnel in private houses (temporary or duration)
Dramatic in crease in traffic (especially during building)
POSITIVES
Increase in local economy
Probable supply of electricity to area for the first time
Sewerage/Water to some areas and post war benefit
Some roads improved
New source of companions for the local women (some would argue as a negative)
In some cases there may be letters relating to building of specific airfields at the National Archives. Hopefully some members have come across examples. Local archives may also have similar records but the difficulty is finding them.
No Amount Of Evidence Will Ever Persuade An Idiot (probably not Mark Twain)
Hi Dave, Welcome to the Forum. I have got an excellent book concerning the construction of airfields during world war two. This covers some of the East Anglia, Lincolnshire and Yorkshire airfields from the first land purchase through the construction and eventual closure. The book is called; Airfield Heyday by Author Paul Berry. ISBN 0 9515257 0 0. I bought this about 20 years ago. First published 1989.
Hello DK - I live in the same neck of the woods as you. Just up the road is the former Worthy Down airfield where I believe Spitfires were dispersed and flight tested following construction. WD is worth going to have a look at if you are ever up that way.
Hi there! Months and months of searching and within hours on this site I get a real lead. That's brilliant. Thank you very much. I'll check to see if it is still in print and/or on ebay.
Hi there! This is just great. Months of searching and within a couple of hours on this site I have received two great replies. Thanks very much for this as this provides really useful background for me. My book is a real passion and is constantly fuelled by the fact that I live within 600 yards of the Bruntingthorpe runway, about 1400 yards from the eastern end. We frequently hear engines being run up, fast taxi-ing down the strip, visiting Dakotas doing low passes etc.
Whilst it was a wartime airfield, there is little recorded about its activities and impact on the area.
Once again thanks so much. If you have any more thoughts or come across anything you think may be of interest, I would be most grateful.
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