Biography: Chapter 1. In the 1920s, Liverpool was primarily a port city, and the main source of work was related to the shipping and trading industries. The city had a dynamic waterfront that was home to numerous docks, warehouses, and shipyards. Many people worked as dockworkers, stevedores, sailors, and other jobs related to the shipping industry. Liverpool was also a centre for commerce and finance, with numerous banks, insurance companies, and other businesses operating in the city. This sector provided job pportunities for accountants, clerks, and other white-collar workers. Social unrest and political conflict were also prevalent. The city was home to a large working-class population, many of whom were organized into labour unions and political movements. These groups often clashed with the city's business and political elites for better wages, working conditions, and political representation. There were also tensions between different religious groups, including Catholics and Protestants. The city also had a significant population of Irish, West African and West Indian immigrants, many of whom faced discrimination and prejudice from the city's predominantly English establishment. Its population was expanding rapidly, and the aftermath of WW1 still lingered in the air. Housing was scarce, and many residents found themselves living in cramped and unsanitary conditions. The slums of Liverpool, such as the infamous "Dingle," a tough area on the fringe of the city's old Chinatown were particularly notorious for their poverty and deprivation, but life was about to get a whole lot tougher, the Great Depression was about to cast its long shadow over the city, leaving many struggling to make ends meet. Against this grim backdrop, Bessie Tomkinson, a twenty-one year old spinster and daughter of a hard-working, dock labourer Charles Tomkinson, faced an unexpected and daunting challenge...she was pregnant, and without a husband to support her. This totally unexpected news most likely filled her with a range of emotions, as an unwed pregnancy during this time period carried a significant social stigma. It was considered a major social taboo, and those who engaged in such behaviour were often ostracised by their communities. This was a time when society placed a high value on traditional gender roles and the concept of the "ideal family," which consisted of a married couple with children. Women who became pregnant outside of marriage were often seen as immoral and lacking in virtue, and were subjected to harsh judgement and condemnation from their families, friends, and the broader community. Nevertheless, Bessie found herself in a challenging situation, she realized that the best path forward for both herself and her unborn child was to get married. The mere thought of an unwed pregnancy would have been enough to send chills down the spine of any young woman. The idea of confessing her situation to her parents would have been a daunting and potentially devastating prospect. Not only did her family adhere to strict religious beliefs, but their social status and personal values would have also been at risk if news of her condition became public. While her sister, Gertrude (affectionately known as Gertie), and her fourty-six- year-old mother, Emily (née Fowler) may have been sources of comfort and support, the same could not be said for her father. A man of rigid discipline and traditional ideals, he would have likely been less understanding of his daughter's predicament. To add to the complexities, having to tell the neighbours made life doubly difficult. Liverpool's busy docklands provided a harsh backdrop for the daily struggles of families like the Dooley's - Tucked away on Greaves Street, a typical terraced street in the heart of the Liverpool 8 district. They were just one of many households trying to make ends meet. At the helm of the household stood William Henry Dooley, a man who undoubtedly bore the marks of years of hard labour in the docks. Then there was Mary Dooley, (née Mangan) a woman who had dedicated herself to ensuring that her home was clean, comfortable, and well-fed. Meanwhile, their son Arthur John Dooley, a twenty- two-year-old, blue-eyed bachelor, standing at a modest height of 5 feet and 3 inches, had already established himself as a professional soldier and had completed a tour of duty in Germany two years prior. At the tender age of just seventeen years, Arthur had made the decision to join the army, however, it is unclear as to why he lied about his age and claimed to be just sixteen, resulting in his date of birth being recorded as 1904 instead of 1905 on both his first and last military service records. Despite this small discrepancy, he went on to serve his country for a total of twenty-two years, seven of which were spent as a reservist, during which time he pursued a new career as a docker in order to help with the family's finances. In May 1928, Arthur's routine was interrupted by a very welcomed visitor. Bessie, his next-door neighbour and girlfriend had come knocking. Her arrival marked a moment of respite from the harsh realities of life. His big smile was short-lived however, her tears flowing, she broke the news: “I'm pregnant”. In an instant, the weight of the world seemed to come crashing down on his shoulders. The long, hard day at work now felt like a walk in the park compared to the daunting prospect of raising a child in the harsh realities of Liverpool. Arthur was a well-respected and virtuous man, who always strived to do what was right. Luckily, there ages were perfectly in tune with the times. In 1928, the average age of marriage in the United Kingdom was twenty five for men and twenty two for women. This was a time when traditional gender roles and expectations held sway in society, and marriage was often seen as a crucial milestone in the lives of young adults. As they contemplated marriage, caution urged them to delay the union. It was not unusual for a woman to suffer a miscarriage in those times, and therefore they deemed it wise to bide their time. Eventually Arthur and his beloved Bessie tied the knot in a beautiful ceremony at St. John the Baptist Church on the 10th of October that year. It was a joyous occasion, attended only by close friends and family. Interestingly, Arthur and Bessie's marriage was quickly followed by a significant event in the British legal system. The Age of Marriage Act of 1929 came into effect just two months after their marriage. The old, outdated legal system allowed boys as young as fourteen and girls as young as twelve to legally wed. However, thanks to the persistent efforts of activists, the Age of Marriage Act was eventually amended to raise the minimum age of marriage to sixteen for both genders. This victory was a crucial step forward for those fighting for gender equality and child welfare in the UK. As is common for many young adults, Arthur & Bessie eventually left the comfort of their parents' home and established their own household. Their first venture into independent living involved renting a terraced house located at 31 Fairview Place, which was conveniently situated just a short stroll away from Greaves Street. Their blissful time as newly-weds was fleeting though, as they only had a precious few months together before the couple welcomed their first child into the world. On Thursday, January 17, 1929, three notable events took place across the globe: Afghanistan was embroiled in a civil war... Venezuela was struck by a devastating 6.7 magnitude earthquake that claimed the lives of fifty individuals, and the iconic comic strip character Popeye made his first appearance in the daily King Features comic. On a day filled with significant events across the globe, a lesser-known occurrence took place at Britain's largest voluntary maternity hospital, Oxford St, Liverpool. It was here that Arthur John Patrick Dooley's life began. The following two months was one of adjustment and routine for the young family, filled with the usual tasks of caring for a newborn: changing nappies, working, and struggling to get enough sleep. However, a significant event was on the horizon...the baptism of their son. Conducted by S. J. Rowlands on March 4th, 1929 at the now demolished St John the Baptist Church in Toxteth. This sacred occasion marked an important milestone in the family's journey, as they welcomed their little one into the Christian faith. As the Great Depression continued to ravage the nation, they found themselves caught in its grasp. Nevertheless, they were managing to scrape by, though just barely. Despite the challenging circumstances, they remained resilient and determined to persevere. They had even made plans to expand their family, no matter what the future held. On November 17th, 1932, their family grew with the birth of a new member, Doreen. She was born at 126 Smithdown Rd Liverpool. This was the Old Parish Workhouse later called Smithdown Road Hospital. Thousands of folk were born at that address and thousands more died at the same. As the family settled into their new roles as devoted parents, they were met with an unexpected hurdle: their abode was unsuitable for their newest addition. It wasn't so much the unsanitary environment that rendered the home unfit for a baby's needs but its size. It was clear that a change was necessary. They were forced to pack up their belongings and move once again. It was 1933 and the family had settled into their new home, 31 Enid Street, which was once again conveniently situated just a short stroll away from their parents' residences...although, it was noted that William and Mary Dooley had also taken up a new rental at 99 Hawkstone Street in Toxteth, within the bounds of the picturesque Park district of Liverpool. In Arthur's (junior) formative years, Enid St would play a crucial role in shaping his perspective on unity within the community. It was within the confines of this street that he first experienced the power of a collective effort towards a shared goal. From a very early age, Enid St served as his classroom, teaching him valuable lessons on the importance of solidarity and cooperation. Through his observations and interactions with the people here, he was able to develop a profound understanding of the strength that can be harnessed when individuals come together in pursuit of a common purpose. This early exposure to the power of community would go on to influence his artistic vision and political beliefs, making Enid St a significant landmark in his personal and creative journey. In the autumn of 1935, Arthur would take his first steps into the world of formal education. At the tender age of five, he was among the many children required by law to begin their educational journey within the structured system. Arthur's mother Bessie had a clear preference for St. Paul's C of E Infant Department as her son's educational institution. The school, which operated from 1855 to the 1970s, was situated on the lower end of Byles St, just off Park Road in Liverpool. A relatively narrow cobbled street, with terraced houses lining one side and on the other, the quaint, Victorian, St- Paul's- church. The school building was immediately adjacent to the church, making it a convenient choice for parents who valued a strong spiritual education for their children. It was here that he would experience his first foray into formal education, joining Class 6 alongside his peers. He would have been introduced to the fundamentals of reading, writing, and arithmetic, laying the foundation for his future academic pursuits. The experience of attending school would have been both exciting and daunting for him. There was no strict dress code in place. The school did not require its pupils to wear a uniform or tie, leaving it up to the individual's discretion as to what they wore to class. For many of the children, Plimsoll footwear was the shoe of choice, but young Arthur had his own unique style. He opted for a trusty pair of Wellington boots, which he favoured for reasons that were likely a combination of personal taste and practicality, particularly on rainy days . Despite standing out from the crowd he felt confident and comfortable in his Wellies as he made his way to class each day. His classmates included Lilian and her sister, who lived on Hawkstone Street near Byles Street. The siblings were known for their exceptional penmanship skills, which were likely honed at St. Paul's C of E department. After completing her education, Lilian pursued a career as a school teacher. Despite the passage of eighty years, she cannot recall Arthur with certainty, but she does cherish the fond memories of that time. Arthur not only attended his new school but also regularly attended Sunday church services at St. Philemon's on Windsor Street in Toxteth. The church had an active Sunday school which he particularly enjoyed, and it is likely that his mum, Bessie, played a significant role in its operation, although, once he completed his Sunday schooling, he rarely stepped foot in a church again. Despite having spent his formative years attending church service and receiving religious education, Arthur's interests and pursuits took him in a different direction, and he chose not to continue with his religious practice until much later in life. Some of the activities within the Sunday School would have included the exploration of art and the teachings of Christian values through various art forms such as drawing, painting, and crafts... one craft in particular quickly became a favourite: Plasticine, a modelling clay that never dried out. He couldn't get enough of moulding and shaping it into various creations. As time went on, he found himself increasingly drawn to making models of ships alongside his friends, Ken Woods, Ken Howell, Ken & Fred (the twins) and Freddie Weldon who all lived on Enid St. What set Arthur apart was his unique approach to the craft. Unlike his friends, who often ended up with messy, brown blobs of Plasticine, Arthur was careful not to mix his, taking great care to keep them separate. Arthur was fairly unique even then. In those early days, While most children in the area spent their winter months building snowmen and engaging in snowball fights, Arthur had a different interest. He spent his time sculpting intricate snow castles, setting himself apart from his peers. A familiar passion was reignited within him in later years. The love for Plasticine resurfaced and captivated his attention once more. Beryl Oprey's dad used to have a sweet shop on Windsor Street, opposite Enid St. Arthur would go to buy his two hundred Senior-Service-cigarettes every week when visiting his parents. Beryl was about five at the time when she first noticed him. She used to play quite often on the shop counter with plasticine and Arthur used to help her with the plasticine models, this went on for about two or three years. He once said to her mum and dad: "You really need to send her to art school when she's older, she's very artistic”. Sadly, her parents did not take his advice, and she never pursued a career in the arts. Beryl later said that Arthur was a lovely man, he was very, very gentle and he took time to be with people, he never had a side to him. There is no doubt that those early days spent playing with Plasticine on the shop counter would have left a lasting impression on both Arthur and the young girl. Each step that he took in his life, from his childhood experiences to his education and beyond, played a role in shaping his later way of thinking. Unlike today, a typical five-year-old lad would have felt the urge and insatiable desire to explore beyond their streets. Fuelled by their irrepressible curiosity and unbridled enthusiasm, they would have stepped out into the world and embarked on their first friendship-based adventures together. Furthermore, the lad's mother would have also welcomed their desire for exploration as it would have provided her with a moment of respite from her domestic duties, or allowed her more time to attend to other household chores like: "Donkey-stoning the front step", a common sight in working-class communities, where people took pride in keeping their homes and surroundings clean and well-maintained. Whilst his sister Doreen slept outside in her pram, an ordinary practice back then, Arthur and his companions ventured forth, their eyes drawn to the industrial docklands and the mighty River Mersey lying just 0.7 miles away. Eager to catch a glimpse of their hard-working fathers amidst the busy waterside activity, the boys could hardly resist the temptation to explore these fascinating sights. On their way, Arthur's initial foray onto Warwick Street, which lay just around the corner from his home, he was struck by a disheartening sight. He couldn't help but notice groups of unemployed men idling away their days, seemingly with little to occupy their minds or bodies. Yet what made this sight all the more poignant was the backdrop against which it played out... the imposing cranes of Cammell Lairds shipyard looming in the distance, set against the murky silver expanse of the Mersey River. The stark contrast between the industrious activity of the cranes and the listlessness of the men was not lost on him, and left an indelible impression on his young mind. It was a strange world to grow up in, Arthur thought! He would later say that: “Liverpool had sorrow and poverty, but oh yes, real fine people, noble and generous, a great people and a great community stricken down with a kind of economic palsy, but always great, never mean. This is your real Liverpool spirit. Sometimes brutality, always toughness, but an ocean of tenderness behind it”. Arthur's father, a military man, had already been absent from his life for quite some time. On the 29th of April, 1935, having served his notice at the docks he joined the King's territorial army with the aim of imparting training to the youth of the nation, preparing them for the realities of war. Luckily, the military camp was stationed in close proximity to their family home. This allowed him to stay connected with his loved ones and remain a part of the family unit. However, at the end of that year, he resumed his duties as a full-time professional soldier. He then joins the Royal Engineers, a corps of the British Army responsible for building and maintaining military infrastructure and facilities. This meant that he would once again have to leave his family and serve his country to the best of his abilities. As Arthur progressed on his educational journey, he embarked on a new phase by enrolling in the local junior school situated in the surrounding region. Known as Windsor Street Council School, now John Archer Hall-(2023). It held a rich heritage as the Wesleyan Day and Sunday School - an institution that has been serving the community for generations. Schools in Toxteth during 1935 were a reflection of the area's diverse and multicultural population. Students from different backgrounds and races attended these schools, and teachers often had to adapt their teaching methods to accommodate the varying needs of their pupils. Despite the challenges, education was highly valued in Toxteth, and schools were seen as a pathway to success for many children. The schools themselves were often old and had a distinct character that reflected the history and culture of the area. Though the exact age at which Arthur commenced this new chapter is believed to have occurred sometime between the ages of seven to nine. The school in question was a peculiar one, not so much in terms of its academic curriculum, but in its physical layout - particularly its playgrounds. While the boys play areas were located within the school's grounds, the girls was situated atop its roof. For newcomers to the school, this was an incredibly exhilarating space, adding an element of adventure to their playtime. The eight-foot-high wall that surrounded the lofty area stood tall, intersected by large tranches of wrought-iron railings that enabled views far and wide. Each set of railings had curved, internally facing spikes that served as a draconian safety feature to guard against climbing up and over. Despite the safety measures, it was inevitable that many adventurous children would attempt to climb the railings, often resulting in painful bruises and cuts to their head. At the back-end of the yard, opposite the main entrance /exit stood a purpose built toilet facility. The interior decoration was designed to match that of all other rooms within the school, with brown glazed tiles covering the lower section of the walls and a cream coloured paint on the upper section. The mixed department school was led by the Headmaster, Arthur Bradbury, a stern but fair man. Arthur Dooley, now among the tallest pupils was in Ms. G. M. Bodin's class 3 and from all indications, he was thoroughly enjoying his educational experience at this particular institution. His attendance, conduct and punctuality were all good, very few blemishes, however, unbeknownst to him, his time at the school was about to come to an abrupt end. Arthur was a student who performed well academically. although he was neither a stand-out genius nor a struggling underachiever. He demonstrated proficiency across various subjects, including geography, reading, art, handy-work, and scripture. However, his Achilles heel was spelling, which would remain a challenge for him. Regardless of the schools overall performances, tensions were rapidly rising across Europe. On August 23, 1939, Nazi Germany and the Soviet Union signed a non-aggression pact, which included secret protocols dividing up Eastern Europe into spheres of influence. This move stunned the international community and paved the way for Germany's invasion of Poland on September 1, 1939, which triggered the start of World War II. Arthur's care-free and fun-loving days of boyhood were about to come to an abrupt end. Little did he know that the world was on the brink of a catastrophic event, one that would shape the course of history forever. As the war broke out, it swept up Arthur's city, engulfing it in chaos, fear, and uncertainty. The war had far-reaching consequences, disrupting the lives of countless families, including Arthur's. ​ As the sun rose on a not so typical weekday morning, Doreen, now a young girl of seven years, prepared herself for another day of learning, but not in the ordinary sense. Just like her older brother, she too was a pupil at Windsor Street Council School. As Doreen and Arthur made their way through the school gates, their emotions could not have been more different. For Doreen, the thought of the day ahead filled her with dread, sadness, and anxiety. She was leaving behind the only life she had ever known, and the thought of being separated from her family and friends was almost unbearable. For this was evacuation day. Though Arthur, a young lad with a sense of adventure, evacuation day was seen as an exciting new chapter in his life. He had always dreamed of exploring new places and meeting new people, and the thought of being sent to a new city like Chester filled him with anticipation. Evacuation was seen as a way to move children to safer, more rural areas where they would be less likely to be affected by bombing raids. It was also to ensure that children continued to receive an education. Arthur and Doreen had never ventured beyond their home-town of Liverpool, except for occasional trips across the Mersey River to New Brighton. Despite being only eighteen miles away from Liverpool, Chester seemed like a world away to the two evacuees. The morning air was chilly as the schoolchildren gathered outside the grand façade of St George's Hall in Liverpool. Once all the children had arrived, they set off in a long, winding line towards the Central Station. Some chatted excitedly with their friends, while others clutched their belongings tightly and tried to hide their nerves. As they approached the station, the sound of the trains whistle echoed through the air, a stark reminder of the journey that lay ahead. As they boarded the train Doreen was trying to fight back her tears and Arthur was already looking out the window, eager to catch a glimpse of the world beyond Liverpool. Sitting next to him where other school children... such was Arthur's insulated life, he asked the Scouse lads seated opposite: “what country do you come from?“ No doubt, that caused a few laughs and would help break the tension. As they arrived at their destination, they disembarked the train and where then assembled at their designated meeting points. Each child had already been registered by their school and given identity tags. Arthur and Doreen already knew they were heading in different directions, with different host families. It was not uncommon for evacuee children to be placed in different homes or with different families, as the selection process aimed to match each child with a suitable host based on factors such as age, gender, and social background. For Arthur - he was fortunate to be billeted into a host family who were fairly affluent or "rather posh", as you put it. Travelling to his new family/ home he would have been struck by the sight of the ancient Roman city with its towering walls and winding streets. Everything was so different from what he was used to. His new abode was sited on the outskirts of the city, within its open countryside, which would have provided Arthur with a completely different environment to that of city life, with fresh air, a slower pace and an abundance of nature, being surrounded by the owners horses would have also been a new and exciting experience for him, particularly as he hadn't had much exposure to animals before. Having access to the wealthy owners artworks would have also been a new and valuable experience, particularly if it allowed him to discover new forms of creativity and self-expression. As he begins to settle into his newly acquired middle-class family, he found their way of engaging with him to be more expressive and cultured, allowing him to develop a more sophisticated way of talking, proving invaluable as he navigated his new social circles. As part of his new development he is taken under the guidance of Headmaster George Cox at Cherry Grove C.P School, Chapel Lane in Chester. The teachers their would also play a crucial role in welcoming and integrating other evacuee children into their new surroundings. Given that the schools location was a mere mile from the city centre, measured 'as the crow flies, Arthur would have taken full advantage of this proximity to immerse himself in the rich historical and cultural significance of the place. As the year 1940 dawned, there was a sense of uneasy calm in the air. The German Luftwaffe had yet to launch a bombing campaign on the city of Liverpool, and the population was just about coming to terms with this new reality. However, for Bessie, the absence of her husband and children was a constant source of distress. Thankfully, Arthur senior would be granted a few days' leave from his duties, and the couple sat down to discuss their children's future. After careful consideration, they decided that Arthur and Doreen would be better off staying at home, so after just three months they returned to their familiar surroundings. Their first evening reunited, they all gathered around the table to have their evening meal when Arthur turned to his mother and politely asked, "May I have more beans mother?" The family couldn't help but find his newly articulated manerism highly amusing, causing Arthur to feel slightly embarrassed by their reaction. Despite his embarrassment, it was a clear indication of his personal growth during his time away. ​ The community was also undergoing a transformation during these trying times. With the temporary closure of their old school, the remaining pupils had now been amalgamated into the Upper Park St, Toxteth School, also known as Toxteth County Primary, which was sited on the corner of Devonport St and Upper Park Street. Within the neatly laid out rows of terraced housing, stood the relatively small Victorian school which was divided into two factions, one for infants and the other for juniors. A metal external staircase led from the main play area, which fed the pupils into the upper floor classrooms. Limitations existed within the school system, teachers were in short supply as many had been called up to serve in the armed forces or had taken on other war-related jobs. The lack of a designated art teacher was noted by Arthur, as the school only had a self-servicing art class, with pans of paint and plasticine laid out on the desks for the pupils to use. Despite this limitation, Arthur and his classmates were still able to explore their creativity through the art class. They were given the freedom to experiment with different materials and express themselves in different ways. Just Seven months after Arthur and his sister had moved back from Chester...August 6th 1940 to be exact, the first major air raid took place on the city with a devastating attack by the Luftwaffe bombers targeting Liverpool city and its docks. In the midst of the chaos, Bessie and Arthur Senior must have felt a crushing sense of regret and doubt, wondering if they had made a colossal mistake in bringing their children back home. As they huddled together within the confines of their local air-raid shelter, the force of the explosions from the raid reverberated through the Dingle area, causing the houses to shake violently. The experience of witnessing such immense destruction right on their doorstep must have been nothing short of terrifying for the residents. Little did they know however, that this was only the beginning. The Germans were just warming up, and things were about to get much, much worse. As the night wore on, the relentless bombing continued, with no end in sight, the Dooley family would have prayed hard for this nightmare to end. As the war raged on, the burden of financial responsibility weighed heavily on many families. The need to pay for basic necessities, such as food, clothing, and shelter, became even more crucial during times of conflict. The absence of breadwinners due to military service put additional pressure on those left behind to find means of support. In the summer of 1941, Bessie and her sister Gertie were determined to find a way to ease their financial struggles. After careful consideration, they came up with a plan that would benefit them both. Gertie agreed to leave her current residence at 23 Greaves St and move in with Bessie. By doing so, they hoped to share the costs of living and improve their financial situations. For Arthur, despite being only thirteen and still at school he also felt a deep sense of responsibility. Believing he was now the man of the household, he knew he had to contribute to the family's income, and therefore took on an after-school job in a Dry Cleaning Laundry service. As a young and energetic worker, he spent three hours each night for the next twelve months assisting with the laundry and ensuring the pump was running smoothly. Despite his limited experience and young age, he earned a respectable five bob per day for his efforts. This job marked the beginning of his journey towards financial independence. As a typical young teenage boy with some spare cash to his name, Arthur found himself at the age where smoking cigarettes became a new temptation. And like many adolescents, he quickly became hooked on this habit, taking to it with ease and familiarity as though he had been doing it all his life. From that marked point he was rarely seen without a cigarette in hand. As he continued to spend his days hanging out with his friends, playing football, and navigating the complexities of teenage relationships, he was also coming to the realization that this carefree lifestyle would not last forever. In fact, at the age of fourteen, he was legally allowed to drop out of school and begin working full-time. The days of adolescence were slipping away, and a new chapter of life was rapidly approaching. As he stepped out of the school gates for the final time, Arthur felt a mixture of emotions - nostalgia for the memories he had made, excitement for the future that lay ahead, and a sense of gratitude for the education that had prepared him for the journey ahead. As regards the school, it was closed in 1981, leaving its halls and classrooms empty. For a brief period of time, the vacant building was re-purposed by local community organizations, providing a space for various activities and events. However, the building's fate was ultimately sealed, and it was eventually demolished, marking the end of an era for the once thriving educational institution. Come the summer of 1942, the city of Liverpool was completely oblivious to the fact that the worst of the blitz was already behind them, regardless, the conflict still raged. Nevertheless, Arthur was committed to doing his part for the war effort and decided to enter full-time employment at the Rootes aircraft factory in Speke, located just seven miles away from his home and a thirty-minute bus ride. For a period of five months, he worked on munitions and aircraft, earning a rate of 41/2d. per hour. This experience proved to be immensely valuable, allowing him to gain new skills and knowledge in the realm of military and aviation. At the peak of its operations, the factory was producing an astounding sixty Halifax and Blenheim bombers every month, thanks to the hard work of its massive workforce of over 13,000 employees. The factory was divided into three main sections, each with its own specific purpose: one section was dedicated to the production of planes, another housed the munitions factory, and the third was responsible for packing parachutes. The sheer scale of the operation was truly impressive, and Arthur was just one of many individuals who played an essential role in keeping the factory running. One of the most impressive accomplishments of the Rootes factory was its remarkable camouflage. Despite being a prime target for German bombers, the factory was never detected or attacked by the enemy. This was a testament to the effectiveness of the camouflage, which was so well executed that the factory remained hidden from view at all times. Due to the skill of the artists, from an ariel perspective, it looked just like rows of terraced streets. Its unique method of blending in with its surroundings was a key factor in protecting the factory from enemy attacks. The ability to maintain such a high level of secrecy and avoid detection was crucial to the success of the war effort. Located on the north-side of what is now the John Lennon airport, the factory's strategic position allowed for easy transportation of newly manufactured planes and goods. At the end of the war Rootes was taken over by the Dunlop Rubber Co, employing about 14,000 people. Part of the factory was 'United Reclaim'....this was a subsidiary of Dunlop's where they recycled old tyres reclaiming any metal and burning the rubber. Arthur was unaware at the time, but fate had plans for him to return to this location later in life. The reason for his departure from the Rootes remains a mystery. However, given that the war was still ongoing at the time, It is speculated that he may have chosen to leave of his own accord rather than being terminated or laid off. Although his job provided some level of education, it was mostly menial in nature. It's likely that he desired to advance his career with a more skilled trade. jobs were plentiful during this particular era, despite his best efforts, nothing seemed to be panning out for him. He would take on work at various dead-end jobs, only to find himself relegated to menial tasks such as running errands and acting as a general hand-rag. Fortunately, an opportunity had arisen for him to take a position at the Cammell Lairds shipyard, located in Birkenhead on the opposite side of the River Mersey. Despite the more challenging commute, he was relishing the opportunity to be trained in the art of shipbuilding, in addition, he remained committed to doing his part in the fight against the German war machine. In the early 1800s, a small shipyard was established on the banks of the River Mersey in Birkenhead. Over the years, the shipyard changed hands several times and underwent several expansions, establishing itself as a major player in the shipbuilding industry, constructing a variety of vessels including battleships, liners, and cargo ships. During World War II, the shipyard was heavily involved in the war effort, building and repairing many of the ships used by the British Navy. Due to demands the workers were often under intense pressure to complete their work quickly and efficiently. This meant that they had to be highly focused and disciplined, with a strong attention to detail and a commitment to quality. Many were also deeply patriotic, as they knew that the ships they were building would play a crucial role in the war effort. The shipyard was a cacophony of diverse sounds, ranging from the shrill squawk of seagulls soaring above to the thunderous roar of the machines below but what used to dominate all the other sounds was the clatter and clanging of the riveters hammers...joining the thousands of parts together and making them as one. With the onset of war there was a pressing need for faster shipbuilding activities to meet the demands of the conflict. Welding emerged as the chosen production method, however, this technological advancement had a human cost. Skilled hand-hammered riveters, who had spent years perfecting their craft, were suddenly rendered redundant. The transition to welding marked a significant shift in the shipbuilding industry, one that would have lasting implications for the skilled workers who had built the industry up to that point. As a welder, Arthur's first task was to prepare the metal components. This involved cleaning and removing any impurities or debris from the surfaces to be welded. Although it was a tedious and time-consuming task, Arthur quickly realized its importance in ensuring a strong, secure weld. Next, he had to choose the appropriate welding technique for the job. This involved considering factors such as the materials being joined and the nature of the weld. Then came the moment of truth: welding the components together. With his welding helmet on and his gloves at the ready, he would have performed the weld, making sure to maintain the proper arc length and speed. Once completed, he had to inspect his work to ensure that it met the required standards. ​ The shipyard workers were of a particular age range, spanning from youthful to elderly, as most able-bodied men of fighting age were away at war. The shortage of skilled labourers had left many industries struggling to find workers, in turn, leading to an influx of younger and older individuals stepping in to fill the gaps. Despite their age differences, the shipyard workers all dressed in a similar fashion, wearing wool jackets, trousers, collarless shirts, and the ubiquitous flat caps, making it difficult to differentiate between each of them. This common attire helped to create a sense of unity among the workers. A further commonality amongst them was their affiliation with the National Union of Shipbuilding and Allied Trades (NUSBAT) who worked tirelessly to protect the interests of its members and ensure that they received fair wages, safe working conditions, and other important benefits. Despite their efforts to support shipyard workers, on this occasion they were unable to assist Arthur and his current unfortunate predicament. The battle of Monte Cassino had just begun in Italy, but for Arthur, the news may have felt like just another mundane report from the front lines of war in the frigid month of October 1943. Although he had been employed as a labourer-cum-welder, his mind was preoccupied with other matters. He knew that this job was not an apprenticeship and that it would not provide him with the long-term job security that he wanted, but he still expected the job to last more than just five months. Having been given notice that his job had been terminated, he was now back on the road in search of more paid work, though the skills and knowledge he had acquired from working alongside the experienced shipyard workers had equipped him with a level of confidence and versatility that would serve him well in his future endeavours. As we reach this juncture, it may be worth pausing to take a look at Arthur's character. Despite his youth, it is clear that he possesses a strong set of morals, an exceptional work ethic, and a deep appreciation for the importance of family values. Undoubtedly, these qualities would have been instilled in him by his parents, teachers and ex-work colleagues. Further influential factors that helped shape Arthur's world-view would have been the historical context of the time, including the impact of the war, along with the concept of community spirit - the notion that a sense of unity and togetherness was vital for the well-being of a community as a whole. This idea had clearly resonated within him and had likely contributed to his strong sense of empathy and willingness to help others. It is admirable to see such a young individual grow so effectively 'in spirit' that it enabled him to succeed in later years where others may have failed. In his current state of joblessness, Arthur found himself with a lot of free time, which would have been enviable to any teenager. His daily routine allowed him to indulge in various activities such as reading, in particular, about current world views, art, or religion. Undoubtedly, his father, who had so far escaped death or injury would have been a constant on Arthur's mind and letter writing would have helped maintain a sense of connection, love, and support for them both. A further pastime would have been visiting the local cinemas, conveniently located within the city and some of the most lavish in the North-West. Most were just a short thirty-minute walk away. "Lassie Come Home, Sweet Rosie O'Grady (with Betty Grable), and Princess O'Rourke (with Olivia De Havilland) were just some of the films released at that time. Music, theatre, and radio also continued to be important sources of entertainment during his brief period of unemployment. They were just some of the staple ingredients in keeping the population entertained during the long winter nights. Arthur, having been greatly influenced by his grandfather's career as a master pilot, may have motivated by him in order to pursue an apprenticeship on the local pilot boats that patrolled the Mersey. However, this ambition appeared to be a far-fetched aspiration. Nevertheless, in January 1944 he was able to secure a new job at the docks, working as a deckhand on the tugboats. These boats were 243 tons of sturdy metal, with engines of 1400 horsepower, that did the donkey-work on both the river and sea. The fine-weather-tanned tug men were as hardy as their boats, seven in all, including the skipper and engineer. Raking out yesterday's fire was just one of Arthur's tasks. The new fire would be ignited over the old one, with the used ash falling into a pit below, requiring emptying on a regular basis. However, before starting the new fire, the clinkers (fused ash) had to be removed as it would block the fire-bars and prevent air from reaching the fire. The preferred coal was "Welsh dry steam coal" from South Wales. This nearly smokeless fuel had a high heat value and a more efficient burn, making it so efficient that it was exported worldwide. The boat was powered by a small, single furnace Scotch boiler. To ignite the fire, Arthur would have used a paraffin-soaked rag on a small metal pole to start the initial burn of wood and coal. The crew's quarters were basic but clean. They consisted of three metal-framed bunk beds that were bolted down, a tall metal locker for each crew member, and a small shared sink. During the half-hour before sailing and the twenty-minute journey from the quay to the fairway, the tug crew worked hard, hauling in nine fathoms of 12-inch diameter Manila rope and fourteen fathoms of 3/12-inch steel wire. From the bridge of the larger ship, the tug received its orders, but the operation was essentially a team effort. The half-deck was cleared to allow the tow- rope free action. Great care had to be taken to ensure everything was taught and trim, as any breakaway could cause thousands of pounds worth of damage, for which the skipper was responsible. Heading a large troop-lined ship into the river was a painstaking job, and there could be no errors in judgement. As the tug pulled away, each man took to his station. With the tug under-way at full speed, the crew continued their tasks, including a spot of painting, which never went amiss on a tugboat. The new job must have been a great relief for Arthur, not only because his old Birkenhead commute had been eliminated, but because he could now walk to work and save himself a whole load of cash. One can only imagine how elated he must have felt. It was a highly sought-after position, however, it was not for the faint-hearted, as it demanded long working hours, which included working through the night and throughout the holiday periods... ships needed to sail regardless of the day or time. Despite the demanding nature of the job, it was good pay and Arthur really enjoyed this new way of life, yet! just six months on, the captain summoned the crew and announced that their positions were no longer required. END