Welcome to The Forties

The Forties was a decade of great change in Derbyshire. The county was heavily involved in the war effort, with many of its residents serving in the armed forces or working in munitions factories. The landscape of Derbyshire was also transformed during this time, as the government requisitioned land for military training and the construction of airfields. Despite the challenges of war, Derbyshire remained a vibrant and resilient community, with many people coming together to support each other through difficult times.

One of the most significant events of the Forties in Derbyshire was the construction of the Derwent Dam. This massive project was undertaken to provide water for the growing population of Sheffield, but it also had a profound impact on the local area. The construction of the dam required the flooding of the villages of Ashopton and Derwent, displacing hundreds of residents. Despite the controversy surrounding the project, the Derwent Dam remains an important part of Derbyshire's history and a popular tourist attraction.

Another important aspect of life in Derbyshire during the Forties was the role of women in the war effort. Many women worked in munitions factories or took on other traditionally male roles, while others volunteered as nurses or joined the Women's Land Army. These women played a vital role in the war effort and helped to pave the way for greater gender equality in the years to come. Overall, the Forties was a time of great change and upheaval in Derbyshire, but it was also a time of resilience and community spirit.