The Second World War led to a large chunk of south Essex’s population going to battle.
With thousands of Southend, Basildon and Canvey residents keen to defend their country from the moment war broke out in September 1939, our region’s streets had fewer people walking our streets.
In the midst of the battle, life went on in south Essex and we have dug into our photo archives to rediscover photographs taken in 1940.
Rationing dominated the first year of the war at home, with swathes of land in places such as Southend’s Priory Park being ploughed in response to the government’s appeal for people to grow more food.
These photos also show children enjoying time out in the midst of a deadly conflict, along with defences being installed.
Pigeon steps - youngsters make friends and enjoy a run around at Chalkwell Park
Meat market - pigs and sheep wait to be sold at Rochford Market
Peaceful setting - this angler tries his luck at Priory Park
Serving - London Auxiliary Firemen on duty in Southend
Doing their bit - a trio of south Essex residents preparing poppies for Armistice Day
Read more:
- Southend seafront and Priory Park caught on camera half a century ago
- IN PICTURES: When two train crashes in 1961 rocked south Essex
Food - cabbages being grown in Southend
Four horse power - seed drilling on a Canewdon farm
Fun - children play in Eastern Esplanade
Nature - geese meandering around Chalkwell Park
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