Using Archives & Maps

Press cuttings & Children's story competition

Local newspaper cuttings document the War in Birmigham, like this one announcing 'transforming' of the newly built University:

On the 13th November 1915, the Birmingham Weekly Mercury began a children's competition on the theme 'What can the Little Ones do in War Time?' and offered half a crown for the best letter - first prize was awarded to Irene Harrison (age 13) from 145 Ladypool Road, Sparkbrook, one of six children from a widowed mother. Her winning entry was published on 20th November (Sian Roberts p.74):

"Certainly we children can help in this Great War. Now what can we small nobodies do? First, Denial is a great sacrifice, and it would bring a smile to many a soldier's face if he had a cigarette that was bought with our pennies that were saved each week instead of being squandered at the sweet shops. 'Tommy' would treasure a scarf, a pair of gloves, knitted pair of socks or a helmet; he would think more of them if bought or knitted with our small hands, for every soldier has not a sweetheart, wife or mother; lots of them, given the title of 'The Lonely Soldier', never receive parcels from relations like their chums do when away from their home; the simple reason is because they have no friends or relations. Would not it be nice to feel that we have got a friend who is a big red-faced soldier?"

There were many more entries in the competition