Loving the head-scarves, ladies. There was time for style and a smile on the production line even when it was converted for war work. Photographs: York’s Chocolate Story
No wonder they’re smiling. They worked with chocolate. Every day.
Well, almost every day. This wonderfully evocative picture from York Chocolate Story’sChocolate and the People of York exhibition actually shows workers packing fuses for the war effort.
Now, the city’s former confectionery workers have been invited to a special get-together in September to browse the exhibition and to share their memories and stories with researchers from York Past & Present who are launching an official oral history project delving into the fascinating history of this key industry.
Exhibition coordinator Jenni Shepherd said:
We’re thrilled to be working with York Past & Present to archive some of the wonderful stories our visitors have told us over the years.
I’m I’m keeping my fingers crossed that our event might see some reunions from the packing lines
If you worked in York’s confectionery industry and would like to attend the event, contact Jenni at jshepherd@yorkschocolatestory or 01904 527722.
In the meantime, let’s sit back and unwrap a few tasty snaps, courtesy of York’s Chocolate Story.
At work
Happy days at the Rowntree factory
Shiny helmets and smart suits – a winning combination for Rowntree’s fire brigade in 1910
Lunchtime in Terry’s canteen (bet nobody opted for the chocolate pudding)Eggciting times on the packing line – it looks a bit chaotic to modern eyes but we’re sure these ladies knew what they were doing
A Rowntree’s bean checker (it’ll take him ages to do all these)Decorating each chocolate by hand (yes, really)
At play
Proof that it always rains on sports day – the slightly damp spectators at Rowntree’s company sports day in 1948. Photographs: Societe des Produits Nestle S.AAn enthusiastic worker opts for height over speed at Rowntree’s sports day
Having a ball – Rowntree’s workers are entertained in the company ballroomCrowds gather at Rowntree’s sports day prize-giving (all hoping it’s cash and not chocolate)
Members of Rowntree’s brass band blow off a bit of steam in their spare time
It must be one heck of a big Yorkie on the end of that rope
