The outbreak of the Second World War in September 1939 created a sudden need for millions of tonnes of timber, used for railways, mining, aircraft production and even for charcoal gas mask filters. With men being conscripted into the armed forces and depleting the existing forestry workforce, the Women's Timber Corps was created in 1942 to provide much-needed boots on the forest floor.
Who were the Lumberjills?
Known as the Lumberjills, the young women of the Women's Timber Corps - aged between 17 and 24 - left their homes (often for the very first time) to take up axes and saws. These remarkable women rose to the challenge of the hard, physical labour of forestry, carrying out felling, planting, loading, vehicle driving, and sawmill operation among many other tasks.
They worked in difficult physical conditions and showed strength, skill and stamina whilst doing it. Undertaking what was thought to be ‘a man’s job’, these pioneering women brought gender stereotypes crashing down.
Battling discrimination
Often facing prejudice from local communities and the men they worked alongside, the Lumberjills lived on very little money, were always on the move and had to find accommodation at each new place of work.
Despite the tough working conditions, many of the women forged lasting friendships and earned respect while doing their bit for the war effort. Their incredible contribution paved the way for women in forestry today.
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The Lumberjills' legacy
The commitment and dedication of the women in the Women's Timber Corps made a real difference to the war effort.
During their time, up to 18,000 women became skilled in the many aspects of forestry and earned the respect they deserved, paving the way for women to undertake forestry roles in the future.
In 2023, 45% of the workforce at Forestry England were female, but some sectors are still under represented. Remembering the perseverance, bravery and community of the Lumberjills can inspire us to continue to work for change.
