Bristol - munitions factory 1940's

[WhittyAnge]

Hi

Does anyone know about a munitions factory in Bristol during the Second World War (might be Whiteheads or Gardeners?).  My late uncle- in- law worked there and I have a photo of about 40 men (including him) in uniform taken in Bristol.  Perhaps the photo is of the ARP wardens in Bristol.

Any info would be useful.

Thanks
from
Angela.

[willow154]

Hi,
I've found a mention of a Mr.Whitehead's torpedo factory - but it's Weymouth.
Will keep looking.
Paulene
Several bit and bobs where people have written reminiscences about working in munitions factories in Bristol - but so far no names mentioned.

[ChasH]

I understand that Portland harbour used to be used for testing torpedos (Not live ones of course ) so perhaps they were made elsewhere.

Chas.

[Little Nell]

Have you tried this site:

http://weldgen.tripod.com/id70.html

Bristol businesses, their history etc.

Nell

[izthebye]

Hi

Does anyone know about a munitions factory in Bristol during the Second World War (might be Whiteheads or Gardeners?).  My late uncle- in- law worked there and I have a photo of about 40 men (including him) in uniform taken in Bristol.  Perhaps the photo is of the ARP wardens in Bristol.

Any info would be useful.

Thanks
from
Angela.

My grandfather and/or great-grandfather was supposed to have owned a munitions factory in Bristol, dating from World War I. I was told that the Germans bombed it flat early in WW II. I too am seeking information on this.

Hugh

[willow154]

Hi Hugh,
First - a big welcome to rootschat. Hope you find it as friendly and helpful as I do.
Always, something new to learn!
If nothing comes through on this particular thread, Hugh, you could always try posting something on the Armed Forces Boards - lots of experts on there.
Kind regards,
Paulene

[grouchgb]

Strachan & Henshaw, a paper-bag manufacturer in the Whitehall area of Bristol, turned over to munitions during WW1. In 1940, the works turned over to war production again, which included armaments (they're still there, as Weir Strachan Henshaw, and still undertake defence engineering).
Maybe they're not the place you are seeking, but it's a start...Steve

[grouchgb]

...and Rolls Royce made munitions at their Patchway plant. Bristol Aeroplane Company were based at Filton (now BAE), and expanded massively in WW2, but I don't know whether they diversified into weaponry.

That's about all my Googling will produce! Of course, a lot of firms diversified in WW2, eg furniture manufacturers making Mosquito fuselages, but soon after peace came they reverted to their old roles, thus locating records of their wartime activities is hard (could Whitehead/Gardener have been the manager's name, rather than the firm's?)

[barnzzz]

Mardens was another Bristol munitions factory. Mother in law worked there.