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WWII High explosive bomb tail fin

From: Museum & Art Swindon

At 6:47am on the 27 July 1942 a high explosive bomb landed near the GWR electrical substation. However, it didn’t explode and was safely deactivated. The tail fin was kept as a memento.

WW2 High explosive bomb tail fin

Swindon during the war

During World War II Swindon was a major transport hub due to the Great Western Railway works. The works were also employed making munitions and military equipment like landing craft. Despite this Swindon didn’t suffer as much German bombing as might have been expected. Only around 100 bombs were dropped on the town, with less than 100 people killed.

Detail of the inscription on the tail fin
Detail of the inscription on the tail fin
G6 bomb damage Swindon Works 32x24 – Credit STEAM picture library – The aftermath of the bombing on the GWR works
G6 bomb damage Swindon Works 32x24 – Credit STEAM picture library – The aftermath of the bombing on the GWR works

Links to the region

North Wiltshire was an important part of Britain’s war efforts. The large GWR works in Swindon had skilled workers who could be redeployed to war work. There was also an aircraft manufacturing site at Blunsdon. Salisbury Plane and the surrounding area have always been used by the military, with a lot of army camps being developed near the railway lines.

Curators Insights

This object was selected by Honey, a pupil from Dorcan Academy who feels that it was a crucial part of our history. Their love of history was imparted by their Grandfather. Honey commented on the skill and bravery involved with deactivating the bomb. We don’t know who undertook the work, but with munitions being made nearby people would have been developing the skills and nerve to attempt it.
 

 

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