Mothers Let Them Go WWII Evacuation Scheme

Original vintage World War Two propaganda poster - Mothers let them go – give them a chance of greater safety and health Ministry Of Health Evacuation Scheme - featuring a black and white photograph of two children sitting in front of a brick wall, the young boy looking out to the viewer and protecting his younger sister with his arm around her, the text against a blue background above and below. The evacuation during WWII known as Operation Pied Piper started in 1939, organised by the Ministry of Health to protect people from the bombing in cities by moving over 3.5 million evacuees to the safety of the countryside and other countries in the British Empire. Very good condition, restored tear on right margin, backed on linen.

Operation Pied Piper

The evacuation during World War Two, known as Operation Pied Piper, started in 1939. Developed by the Anderson Committee and organised by the Ministry of Health to protect people from the bombing in cities around the country, especially children (who were separated from their parents), as well as the infirm, elderly and mothers with babies. The operation moved over 3.5 million evacuees to homes and camps in the countryside and other countries in the British Empire, under the approval of the Children's Overseas Reception Board (CORB). Assistance was provided by local authorities, railway staff, teachers and the Women’s Voluntary Service (WVS; formed in 1938). Goods, important records and companies were also moved, including gold from the Bank of England, art and other treasures from museums, and government and private offices.