Cleftref's Fotothing

Jersey, Channel Islands.

Maritime Museum, St Helier.

The Occupation Tapestry. (6) Best viewed in high res.

Panel produced by ladies of the Parish of St Lawrence.

As a result of the restrictions imposed, working practices and schooling have to change.

Because of the fuel shortage the horse makes a comeback on Island farms and many old horse drawn implements are brought back into use. In an attempt to avoid local labour being used by the occupying forces, the States Department of Labour begins a series of major work schemes such as the building of the New North Road. Often missing their families at home, German soldiers go out of their way to be kind to small children and a ride on a German lorry is always a popular diversion. Low-water fishing and fishing with a rod can only be carried out during hours of daylight. Most beaches are placed out of bounds yet by 1945 there will be no limpets to be found above the low water mark. Fisherman are seen as a threat to security and so boats are licensed. The fishing limit is set at one mile without a guard and two miles with. Despite being part of the Bailiwick, the traditional fishing grounds of the Minquiers and the Ecrehous are out of bounds for Jersey fishermen. At school, classes are larger due to a shortage of teachers and the raising of the school leaving age to 15. Slates are brought back into use to save paper. The children of the family wear their overcoats in class in winter as there is no heating in the buildings.

Note that the children are being taught German "what is the weather tomorrow/"