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Painted Fabrics - H Simpson, Coldstream Guards
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Painted Fabrics - H Simpson, Coldstream Guards
The establishment of Painted Fabrics Limited owed much to Annie Bindon Carter (1883-1969) who, in 1915, volunteered to help at the Wharncliffe War Hospital at Middlewood, Sheffield. She organised painting classes as a form of occupational therapy for soldiers who had suffered physical and psychological injuries (including amputations) during the First World War. At the end of the war Mrs Carter obtained premises at West Bar, Sheffield which were converted and equipped as workshops for a few men, with financial help from local people. After a visit from Earl Haig, the authorities realised the possibilities of employment for severely disabled ex-servicemen that the enterprise presented. In 1923, land and hutments at the old WaC (Womens Auxiliary Army Corps) camp at Norton Woodseats, Sheffield were purchased by the United Services Fund and leased to the newly formed company Painted Fabrics Limited. Some of the huts became workshops, while others were converted to homes for some of the men and their wives and families. Original at Sheffield Archives, ref. PF/4/2/4
Sheffield City Archives and Local Studies Library has an unrivalled collection of images of Sheffield, England
Media ID 14039507
© Sheffield City Council
Military Soldiers Visits World Disabled Fabrics
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures the heartwarming story behind Painted Fabrics Limited, a company that owes its establishment to the remarkable efforts of Annie Bindon Carter. In 1915, during the First World War, Mrs. Carter selflessly volunteered at Wharncliffe War Hospital in Middlewood, Sheffield. Recognizing the need for occupational therapy among soldiers who had endured physical and psychological injuries, she organized painting classes as a means of rehabilitation. After the war's end, Mrs. Carter secured premises at West Bar in Sheffield with financial assistance from local individuals. These spaces were transformed into workshops for a select group of men who had suffered severe disabilities while serving their country. The potential for employment opportunities for these ex-servicemen caught the attention of Earl Haig during his visit to Painted Fabrics Limited. In 1923, thanks to support from the United Services Fund, land and hutments at Norton Woodseats were acquired by Painted Fabrics Limited. Some huts were converted into workshops while others became homes for employees and their families. The original photograph is housed at Sheffield Archives and serves as a testament to Annie Bindon Carter's dedication and compassion towards those affected by war. It symbolizes hope and resilience as it showcases how art can heal wounds both visible and invisible.
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