Edinburgh retro: 19 poignant photos showing Edinburgh life during the Second World War
While Scotland’s capital city was lucky to escape the wholesale devastation witnessed in Clydebank, Coventry and other UK cities with heavy industry, the Second World War had a profound effect on the Capital’s citizens.
From photographs showing the early days of school pupils being taught evacuation procedures and how best to respond to the incoming air raids that would destroy homes and take lives, to the jubilant scenes witnessed on 8th May 1945 – VE Day – we can see the city’s WWII story unfold.
17. Air Raid shelters on Princes Street
People leaving the underground air raid shelters in East Princes Street Gardens, Edinburgh after the all-clear sounds during World War II (May 1945). Photo: TSPL
18. VE Day party, Stockbridge Colonies
A street party marks VE Day at the colonies housing in Stockbridge, May 1945. Photo: City of Edinburgh Libaries
19. VE Day joy
Exuberant Army, Navy and RAF revellers "mount" the Wellington equestrian statue outside Register House on VE Day. Photo: TSPL