The marking of the 75th anniversary of Victory in Europe brings to the forefront Cowes Heritage’s photographs of the celebrations, including street parties held in the town, as well as in Northwood and Gurnard.
Bunting hung from every window and the streets were filled with residents enjoying large parties – a stark contrast to life today as the country battles another kind of enemy.
Over 100 children were entertained to tea by residents of Elm Road, upper Newport Road and upper Mill Hill Road. Each child up to 11 years received a shilling and older children got 1 shilling and 6 pence. Entertainment was provided by a jazz band and there was a programme of sports. Dancing for adults followed until midnight.
At Gurnard, the local WI gave a tea for over 100 children, followed by a Punch and Judy Show; a resident paid for ice cream.
Meanwhile in Northwood, the celebrations centred around a huge bonfire at the Pallance Road/Wyatts Lane junction – topped with an effigy of Hitler. An accordion was played through the streets and a dance was held in the WI Institute. There was also a silent tribute to those ‘who never came back’.
Then. on 8th June 1946. a Service of Thanksgiving was held at Northwood Park, marking both Victory in Europe and Victory in Japan. This included a 2-minute silence.
George Chastney, Chairman of Cowes Heritage, has shared a number of photographs in the collection for Island Echo readers to enjoy…
Bellevue Road, Albert Street/Princes Street, St Mary’s Road, Union Road and Moorgreen Road.
Lovely pictures thank you
How nice to see real working class Islanders and real British people all respectful and sat in a civilised manner.
Fantastic photographs of a time when people had had enough of death and worry, and seemed grateful just to be alive and safe despite having little left. I can’t ever see those attributes being associated with so many of the beings we have here now ruining our naiton.
Both beautiful and sad times to look back upon.
Nice change from CV material too.
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