I was using Google images looking for inspiration for a birthday card and instead found a new book trail! I came across a wonderful picture of a woman on a plow, which took me to Wikipedia and an entry on the Women's Land Army. These were women, who, in WWI and WWII, took up the traditional men's duties on farms in the UK. Naturally, I had to learn more!

First up is The Women's Land Army, by Neil R. Storey & Molly Housego. This is a short history of how it got started, what training was provided,and what happened when the men came home (think no pension, etc). Full of wonderful photos, it's a wonderful overview of a remarkable program.

Then, for a more in depth look, try The Women's Land Army, by Vita Sackville-West. It includes all the charts and statistics the government likes, but also descriptions of the various jobs and some great anecdotes. Those who were part of the WLA were given a certain amount of time off each week/month ... except for those milking cows. (Think about it)! Those working in the forests did ALL the jobs, from finding the trees to cut, to cutting them down, hauling them to the sawmill, and so forth. (Woman are strong)! One farm was heavily shelled but would carry on with the necessary work (the men fighting would need the food, after all). The comment here was that the "war was the sidehow" ... so very British! And, my favorite ... the Queen held a big gathering for the Land Girls. Initially it was set up to be held outdoors, but she decided that indoors would better since the Girls had probably had enough of being outside. :-)

Talk about strong women! Nurses, doctors, ambulance drivers, spies, journalists, and even soldiers on the front lines, they did it all. Women Heroes of World War I: 16 Remarkable Resisters, Soldiers, Spies, and Medics, by Kathryn J. Atwood is a collection of short biographies about these amazing members of "the weaker sex." (Hah!)

Reading Hermit With Dog