Kenneth Gill 1941 Architect's and builder's diary
Title
Kenneth Gill 1941 Architect's and builder's diary
Description
Occasional daily inputs. Mentions going to Lords (initial aircrew) in July, Leuchars for training in late July then back to London. Mentions some flying experiences in November.
Creator
Date
1941
Temporal Coverage
Language
Format
Multi-page printed booklet with handwritten entries
Conforms To
Publisher
Rights
This content is available under a CC BY-NC 4.0 International license (Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0). It has been published ‘as is’ and may contain inaccuracies or culturally inappropriate references that do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the University of Lincoln or the International Bomber Command Centre. For more information, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/ and https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/legal.
Contributor
Identifier
SGillK1438901v10008
Transcription
[blank back cover]
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ARCHITECT'S & BUILDER'S DIARY
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[unrelated notes]
[page break]
[italics] Name [/italics] K. GILL
[italics] Address [/italics] 55 KYFFIN AVENUE,
HALTON
LEEDS
[italics] Telephone [/italics] 29737 (LEEDS FIRECLAY CO LTD.)
[page break]
JANUARY 1941
13034312
PTE. H BERRY.
7 SEC 177 COY P C
MONKTON FARLEIGH.
WILTS.
1146390
A/C2 R GILL.
4 WING, H. SQUADRON
HOTT.33. 50TH. ENTRY.
10 S OF TT
KIRKHAM.
MR & MRS J. GILL
9 GIPTON WOOD CRESCENT.
LEEDS. 8.
1 WED
Home at 1-30 am. Went up at night at 7-15pm. and then to pictures.
3 FRI
Les had ticket for dance so went on my own. Arthur & Billy were there. Not too good. Wonder what she'll say.
4 SAT
Les & I started to rejuvenate shelter. Very cold, still snow. Went to Regal. She paid I don't know why. Saw Deanna Durbin. I think. Told her about last night. Was mad a lot.
[page break]
5 SUN
Papers as usual. Had pains in body. No parade for us. Had tea at Vera's. Awful headache & pains. Some [indecipherable word] eased a bit. Felt a bit better when got home at 11-0 p.m.
6 MON
Nightschool started again. 7-0 pm. to 9-0 pm. Calculus now. Differential & Integral. Home, had bath & so to bed.
11 SAT
Les & I did bit more of shelter. Called at 7-10 p.m. and went to Regal to see 'Convoy'. Very good. Back home & stayed till 10-30 p.m. Left for home.
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12 SUN
Papers in morning. Temp. at 10-am. Went with wrong platoon. Paid 7/6. Went for walk in afternoon, tea at home, stayed in. Took her home at 10-30 pm.
13 MON
Nightschool at 7-0 pm to 9-0 pm. Came home and read a while about Calculus. Bed after having supper.
14 TUES
School, saw Vera, had haircut. Home Guard lecture at 8-0 pm to 9-30 pm. Called round, and stayed till 10-30 p.m. Home to bed.
15 WED
Had dog destroyed in afternoon. Stayed at home & did homework. She came down at 8 pm. and stayed for supper. 3 men stopped. Some on notice.
16 THUR
Ground frozen hard. Light layer of snow. Stayed at work for tea. Vera & others passed me in town, caught Gladys up. Nightschool & then bath & so to bed.
17 FRI
Stayed in and did some homework.
18 SAT
Chambers left, gone to Farnley. Did homework in afternoon. Went up to Vera's at 7-30 pm. Stayed and then left at 9-30 pm. Snowing hard. Went to post at 10-10 pm. Played darts till 12 pm.
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19 SUN
Very deep drifts in places. Home at 6-30 a.m. Had some rest. Ron went to Temp. Les & I on papers. Finished at 4-45 pm. Took her home to tea. Went back after & stayed till 10-30 pm. Still loving.
20 MON
Snow still deep. Snowed up at work pipes frozen & burst. Went to nightschool but was late. Teacher may not come again.
21 TUES
Walked to work. Thawed slightly. School in afternoon. Left at 4-0 pm. Home Guard lecture at night. Have guards on Thursday & Sunday. Called round & stayed till 10-30 pm.
22 WED
Work at 9-0 am. Snow still here. Tiring day & Herbert finished today. Went up at 7.5 pm. Took her to Ritz to see "Forty Little Mothers". Very good picture. Was very loving after picture.
23 THUR
Work at 8-25 a.m. today. Car service [unreadable]. Another trying day. Home in Vic's car. Got Gladys & went to Irvin at 7-40 pm. Arrived at A.F.S. station & stayed till 12 pm. No sirens thank goodness. Home by bus. Bed 1-30 am.
24 FRI
Wrote to Franklin at dinner. Stayed in and did homework. Vera came down at 8-45 pm. Had supper and took her to bus. She's such a dear. Plucked pigeons when got back.
25 SAT
Did homework. Had bath and washed hair. Went up for 7-30 pm. Waited till 8-0 pm & went to social. Fairly good time. Waltzed a while with an angel. Called & then went home.
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JANUARY - FEBRUARY 1941
26 SUN
Up to Templenewsam for 10-am. Dad & Les took papers. No Church, went up in uniform. Had tea at Vera's. Room at 8-15 pm to 9 o'clock. Didn't want to leave her. Bought her chocs. Left for guard.
27 MON
Home at 6-0 am after a quiet night. Ground frozen roads very treacherous. Martin's Bank a success. Nightschool at 7-0 pm to 9-0 pm. New teacher. Lot better now, may get somewhere.
28 TUES
Went up to school at 8-0 pm. Had lecture on maps, country etc. Refused guard. Called round & stayed till 10-30 pm.
29 WED
Stayed in and did homework. She came down at 8-15 p.m. and stopped till 10-0 pm. Took her home, and then to bed.
30 THUR
Nightschool at 7-0 pm. Stayed till 9-0 pm. Home and tried homework, not so good. Bed at 10-30 pm.
31 FRI
Went up at 8-0 p.m. Took up pigeons. Took Jean home at 9-15 p.m. and went to see Lucy. Put Jean to bed & had supper. Sat by fire and left at 11 o'clock. Aren't I a fool
1 SAT FEBRUARY
Did nothing in afternoon. Went up at 7-30 p.m. Stayed in with George. She is worried, but tries not to be. Left at 10-30 p.m. for home.
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1941 FEBRUARY
2 SUN
No papers. Guard on Tuesday. Temple for 10 am. Issued with capes. Patrol in woods, an awful job. Had tea at home. Left at 9-15 pm. Took her home she's not so well, suspect impetigo.
3 MON
Tiring day. Transport a heck of a job. Snow a nuisance. School at 7-0 pm. to 9-0 pm. Saw Joan. Vera been to doctors', got some inhalent[sic]. Bed at 10-30 pm
4 TUES
School at 2-0 p.m. till 5-0 pm. Went for her after school. Home by bus. Called at Buttons & was kept till 6-45 p.m. Furious, can't see her now. Temple at 8-15 pm. Sirens at 10-pm. All clear at 12-5 am. No bombs.
5 WED
Rang her at dinner-time. Went up to Vera's at 6-45 pm. Ritz at 7-10 p.m. Snowing again. Saw "New Moon", Nelson Eddy, Jeanette Macdonald very good. Snowed heavy afterwards, She's such a star.
6 THUR
Went to nightschool at 7-0 pm. to 9-0 pm. Home and bed at 10 pm. Boss not too good. Suspect flu.
7 FRI
Dennis home for 7 days. Went up to see Vera. Stayed till 10-40 pm saw Dennis coming home from Mollys. Vera has next week holiday
8 SAT
Went up to see weddings at church. Called round and had cup of tea. Regal at night to see "The Westerner". Very disappointing. Vera didn't like it either. Stayed till 10-30 pm
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9 SUN
Ron & I took my round. Les took other. Went to church, sat on my own. Had tea round at Vera's. Dennis & Molly were in. Read in room for a while. Had supper, left at 11-0 pm
10 MON
Tiring day, told Harry to cut Maryland Point, hope I'm right. Nightschool 7-0 to 9-0 pm. Home and so to bed.
11 TUES
Boss came in morning, but didn't stay long. Went up at 3-30 pm. Called at Kilners for watch. Had tea at Coop Cafe, then to Grand. Very good show. Went up with them, and left at 10-45 pm
12 WED
Tiring day, had headache. Stayed in and did homework. Vera came down, but I wasn't very sociable. Took her home at 10-30 pm.
13 THUR
Went for hardware for post. Nightschool at night, 7-0 to 9-0 pm. Didn't feel too good, couldn't concentrate on work. Home to bed.
14 FRI
Sent her a Valentine. Gregson fitted light to fire-watching post from office. No power all day. They played billiards at night so went up to see Tom. Passed Vera's but did not call. Dennis staying.
15 SAT
Called at Aunt Gladys'. Did homework in afternoon. Didn't feel too good. Went up at 7-30 pm. She has impetigo poor dear. Stayed in till 10-15 pm. Had a walk & then went home. She's such a darling.
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16 SUN
Ron & I took paper's, Les took one round. Temple at 10-15 a.m. Very bitter wind. Didn't go to church. Saw her after, & took her home for tea. Face all green with liningent. Had to go on guard at 7-30 pm. Left her at Irwin Arms. Don't see much of her lately.
17 MON
Home at 12-30 am. Bed at 1-0 am. Rotten headache. Nightschool at night 7-0 pm to 9-0 pm. Leslie in bed ill, doctor coming tomorrow. Not so good myself.
18 TUES
Bad headache all day. Felt cold. School in afternoon 2-0 to 5-0 p.m. Didn't go to Home Guard, did some homework. Mother not so well. Ronnie has bad cough. Guard on Friday night.
19 WED
Cold, feverish, bad headache stayed in office as much as possible. Sirens sounded 4-15 pm. All-Clear 5-20 pm. Ronnie in bed ill. Called at Gladys' then to Vera's. She's a bit better, glad I went. Left at 10-30 p.m.
20 THUR
Ronnie stayed in bed . Doctor coming to Leslie. Mother no better. Pain at back of eyes, felt weak & shivery. Went to nightschool 7-0 pm. to 9-0 pm. Home and then to bed.
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FEBRUARY-MARCH 1941
28 FRI
Stayed in and did homework
1 SAT MARCH
Had hair-cut in afternoon. Didn't do homework. Went up at 7-30 pm. Her mother not well. Stayed in. Sirens for 10 mins. Home at 11-0 pm. Wish we were older.
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1941 MARCH
2 SUN
Papers as usual, didn't go on parade. Called for Lucy & went to church. Had tea at our house. Had a walk to Templenewsam. She's adorable. Supper and home.
3 MON
Ron had to go for 9-o'clock. Think he'll go to Padgate. Nightschool 7-0 pm to 9-0 pm. Home and to bed at 10-30 pm.
4 TUES
No news of Ron. Rang Vera, and went for 1 o'clock. Went to Town Hall to hear organ. Very good. School at 2-0 p.m. till 5-0 pm. Broadbent back again. Stayed in at night & did homework. Saw Tom at school.
5 WED
Everybody likes her photo. Boss too.
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9 SUN
Got ready for 9-15 am. Stocks didn't come so went up for nothing. Raining heavily. Finished at 12 a.m. Church in afternoon. Had tea at Vera's
10 MON
Had to go to nightschool in uniform. Got up to Mansion at 9-50 p.m. Sirens went about 10-30 pm. Was orderly. others had to stand-to. All-clear at 12-20 am. Layed down & had about 11/2hrs sleep. Tired when I got up. Left at 6-15 am.
11 TUES
Went down for 1'o'clock. Went to Town Hall, had a young girl singing for him. Went to school. Called at Col. Office and entered for National Cert. Stayed in and did homework.
12 WED
Rang her at dinner. Said she was taking me out, but said I wouldn't let her. She was annoyed. Went up at 7-15 pm. Went out, had walk right up Whinmore and back. She would not speak to me till Crossgate Parade. We made up again. Sirens at 10-15 pm A.C. 3-30 am
13 THUR
Nightschool at 7-0 pm to 9-0 pm. Left and was at Woodpecker when siren's went. Went up to Vera's and left at 10-30 p.m. Raiders were not over here, but guns fired spasmodically All Clear at 2-0 am
14 FRI
Sirens at 9-10 pm. Vera came down before they went. Tried to do some homework but did not do much. Terrific barrage of A.A. bombs near-by. Took her home at 10-45 p.m. She was scared, poor darling. Some incendiaries, raid got nearer. All-Clear 3-45 am
15 SAT
Leeds caught it last night. Shrapnel all-over the place. More damage done than we thought. Market, Town Hall, Museum, Stations, Farnley, Wortley, Elland Road, T.E.P. Basinghall [deleted word] hosts of others badly damaged. 50 dead, 250 homeless. Took Vera & Betty to Ritz to see Pride & Prejudice. Ronnie fire watching.
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16 SUN
Quiet night. London caught most of raids. Fog during night. Took our own papers. Leslie's shop got direct hit, starts with U. Jim Monday. Tea at our house, church in uniform. Had to go to Templenewsam for 8-30 p.m. Guard from 12-15 am. to 1-30 am. Nothing to report.
17 MON
More reports of air raid damage & casualties.
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19 THUR
Went to Cardington on 1 p.m train from Leeds. Arrived at 7.30 p.m. had supper & went to bed.
20 FRI
Had exams all day & got through them all. Left at 9-30 p.m. for home again. Arrived at 4.0 a.m.
21 SAT
Slept till 2 pm rang Vera up and boss too. Said I'd to wait about 3 months at least before being sent for.
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[2 blank pages]
1941 JULY
7 MON
Left Leeds & my darling at 10-15 am. Arrived at Lords at 4-0 pm. Got through administration & got into billets at 7-0 pm. Am in 7 flight.
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19 SAT
Moved from Stockleigh to Avenue Close after a fortnights' training, feel rather tired but getting used to it
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26 SAT
Left Avenue Close at 5-30 am, up @ 3-0 am. Entrained at K. Cross at 6-0 am. Arrived at Leuchars at 7-0 p.m. Had good supper & went to bed. Grand place. Very tired
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JULY-AUGUST 1941
27 SUN
Had a rather tiring day filling in docs and drawing equipment. Good meals here & very good billets
28 MON
Started lessons. Flt Lt Kerr is our officer i/c. Seems we've plenty of work to do here.
[page break]
1941 AUGUST
3 SUN
Went down on drome & had 3 flights in a Hudson. Very good here so far.
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13 WED
Had [unreadable] exam in maths, managed 90%
16 SAT
Crash at St Andrews. Hudson burned out. Pilot & Observer dead.
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18 MON
Funeral, had to act as cortege followers. Pipe band played dirges very solemn proceedings.
20 WED
Had [deleted word] final exam in maths, think I got through O.K.
23 SAT
Siren for an hour, nothing doing.
[page break]
24 SUN
Went up to sports ground & watched lads play Station Defence & win at rugby. Crash in afternoon, Hudson damaged by Beaufort.
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[2 missing pages]
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SEPTEMBER 1941
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1941 SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER
3 FRI
Left for 9 days leave at 3 pm. Stayed in Edinburgh 5 hrs Leeds at 4.45 am. Missed them & went home on my own & was having breakfast when they arrived. She's really wonderful & it's good to be home again.
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OCTOBER 1941
[blank page]
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12 SUN
Left Leeds & my darling at 2 p.m. for Leuchars. Have had a marvellous time at home. Got in at 11-30 p.m. Tired & weary
17 FRI
Left Leuchars for London at 7-20 p.m. Sorry to leave wish we could stay here for all our training. Travelling all night special compartment.
18 SAT
Arrived at 9-15 a.m. Tired & hungry. Went to Abbey Lodge & finally to Avenue Close. Shook 'em with our drill.
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[blank page]
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1941 OCTOBER-NOVEMBER
1 SAT NOVEMBER
Left Avenue Close for Hall Road
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[2 missing pages]
NOVEMBER 1941
21 FRI
Had flying kit issued. Going tomorrow thank goodness.
22 SAT
Left Hall Rd. for Clyffe Pypard 9 am. Arrived 12-30 pm Dinner then docs, pay accounts etc. Civilian air drome. Food poor.
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23 SUN
Flew in morning with P/O Holyoake my instructor. Poor food here. Badly cooked.
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NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 1941
2 TUES
Left at 3-30 pm for Swindon on 48 hrs. Got 7-0 pm train to London & 10-40 pm from there
3 WED
Arrived 5-15 a.m. Mum & others impressed. Went up to Vera's and woke her up. She didn't go to work & we had a very nice day.
4 THUR
Went with Vera in morning & left at 2-10 p.m. for London & arrived at Swindon at 10-30 pm. Transport took us back to camp.
[page break]
1941 DECEMBER
12 FRI
Took in our flying clothing & boots, gumboots & socks. Packed up ready for going
13 SAT
Left at 11-30 am for 14 days embarkation leave. Arrived home at 9-45 pm. Vera & her Mum were at our house.
[page break]
14 SUN
Bed at 3-30 am. Vera stayed overnight. She starts at Training Centre tomorrow morning.
15 MON
Took her to Kirkstall Rd for 9 am. Called at Aunt Elsie's. Went for her at 9 pm. She's on 2 to 9's
16 TUES
Went in town for a ring & got one at Owen & Robinsons. Two stones set on cross, platinum top. Dinner at Coop.
[page break]
27 SAT
Left at 9-18 am for Manchester & arrived at 12-0 am. In private billets with Mrs Byron 11 Polefield Gardens. Ray Vera at night
[page break]
28 SUN
Wrote home & to Vera. Food is good here, discipline is slack. Nothing to do from 10 am
29 MON
Breakfast 8 am. Parade at 8-45 am. Stood about all day so finished at 4 pm.
30 TUES
Same as yesterday.
31 WED
Gave in our [unreadable] clothing & steel helmets. Went out at night with the lads got in at 12-30 am.
End of 1941 & me an engaged man. Better things for 1942 I hope. Shouldn't be surprised if we moved at the weekend
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[blank page]
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[calendar dates 1941]
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Left at 8-0 am
reached Sussex at 9-0 a.m.
reached Rothesay at 10-5 a.m.
reached Coldbrook at
Across border at Vanceboro
Changed trains 8-15 p.m. at Portland.
[page break]
ARCHITECT'S & BUILDER'S DIARY
[page break]
[unrelated notes]
[page break]
[italics] Name [/italics] K. GILL
[italics] Address [/italics] 55 KYFFIN AVENUE,
HALTON
LEEDS
[italics] Telephone [/italics] 29737 (LEEDS FIRECLAY CO LTD.)
[page break]
JANUARY 1941
13034312
PTE. H BERRY.
7 SEC 177 COY P C
MONKTON FARLEIGH.
WILTS.
1146390
A/C2 R GILL.
4 WING, H. SQUADRON
HOTT.33. 50TH. ENTRY.
10 S OF TT
KIRKHAM.
MR & MRS J. GILL
9 GIPTON WOOD CRESCENT.
LEEDS. 8.
1 WED
Home at 1-30 am. Went up at night at 7-15pm. and then to pictures.
3 FRI
Les had ticket for dance so went on my own. Arthur & Billy were there. Not too good. Wonder what she'll say.
4 SAT
Les & I started to rejuvenate shelter. Very cold, still snow. Went to Regal. She paid I don't know why. Saw Deanna Durbin. I think. Told her about last night. Was mad a lot.
[page break]
5 SUN
Papers as usual. Had pains in body. No parade for us. Had tea at Vera's. Awful headache & pains. Some [indecipherable word] eased a bit. Felt a bit better when got home at 11-0 p.m.
6 MON
Nightschool started again. 7-0 pm. to 9-0 pm. Calculus now. Differential & Integral. Home, had bath & so to bed.
11 SAT
Les & I did bit more of shelter. Called at 7-10 p.m. and went to Regal to see 'Convoy'. Very good. Back home & stayed till 10-30 p.m. Left for home.
[page break]
12 SUN
Papers in morning. Temp. at 10-am. Went with wrong platoon. Paid 7/6. Went for walk in afternoon, tea at home, stayed in. Took her home at 10-30 pm.
13 MON
Nightschool at 7-0 pm to 9-0 pm. Came home and read a while about Calculus. Bed after having supper.
14 TUES
School, saw Vera, had haircut. Home Guard lecture at 8-0 pm to 9-30 pm. Called round, and stayed till 10-30 p.m. Home to bed.
15 WED
Had dog destroyed in afternoon. Stayed at home & did homework. She came down at 8 pm. and stayed for supper. 3 men stopped. Some on notice.
16 THUR
Ground frozen hard. Light layer of snow. Stayed at work for tea. Vera & others passed me in town, caught Gladys up. Nightschool & then bath & so to bed.
17 FRI
Stayed in and did some homework.
18 SAT
Chambers left, gone to Farnley. Did homework in afternoon. Went up to Vera's at 7-30 pm. Stayed and then left at 9-30 pm. Snowing hard. Went to post at 10-10 pm. Played darts till 12 pm.
[page break]
19 SUN
Very deep drifts in places. Home at 6-30 a.m. Had some rest. Ron went to Temp. Les & I on papers. Finished at 4-45 pm. Took her home to tea. Went back after & stayed till 10-30 pm. Still loving.
20 MON
Snow still deep. Snowed up at work pipes frozen & burst. Went to nightschool but was late. Teacher may not come again.
21 TUES
Walked to work. Thawed slightly. School in afternoon. Left at 4-0 pm. Home Guard lecture at night. Have guards on Thursday & Sunday. Called round & stayed till 10-30 pm.
22 WED
Work at 9-0 am. Snow still here. Tiring day & Herbert finished today. Went up at 7.5 pm. Took her to Ritz to see "Forty Little Mothers". Very good picture. Was very loving after picture.
23 THUR
Work at 8-25 a.m. today. Car service [unreadable]. Another trying day. Home in Vic's car. Got Gladys & went to Irvin at 7-40 pm. Arrived at A.F.S. station & stayed till 12 pm. No sirens thank goodness. Home by bus. Bed 1-30 am.
24 FRI
Wrote to Franklin at dinner. Stayed in and did homework. Vera came down at 8-45 pm. Had supper and took her to bus. She's such a dear. Plucked pigeons when got back.
25 SAT
Did homework. Had bath and washed hair. Went up for 7-30 pm. Waited till 8-0 pm & went to social. Fairly good time. Waltzed a while with an angel. Called & then went home.
[page break]
JANUARY - FEBRUARY 1941
26 SUN
Up to Templenewsam for 10-am. Dad & Les took papers. No Church, went up in uniform. Had tea at Vera's. Room at 8-15 pm to 9 o'clock. Didn't want to leave her. Bought her chocs. Left for guard.
27 MON
Home at 6-0 am after a quiet night. Ground frozen roads very treacherous. Martin's Bank a success. Nightschool at 7-0 pm to 9-0 pm. New teacher. Lot better now, may get somewhere.
28 TUES
Went up to school at 8-0 pm. Had lecture on maps, country etc. Refused guard. Called round & stayed till 10-30 pm.
29 WED
Stayed in and did homework. She came down at 8-15 p.m. and stopped till 10-0 pm. Took her home, and then to bed.
30 THUR
Nightschool at 7-0 pm. Stayed till 9-0 pm. Home and tried homework, not so good. Bed at 10-30 pm.
31 FRI
Went up at 8-0 p.m. Took up pigeons. Took Jean home at 9-15 p.m. and went to see Lucy. Put Jean to bed & had supper. Sat by fire and left at 11 o'clock. Aren't I a fool
1 SAT FEBRUARY
Did nothing in afternoon. Went up at 7-30 p.m. Stayed in with George. She is worried, but tries not to be. Left at 10-30 p.m. for home.
[page break]
1941 FEBRUARY
2 SUN
No papers. Guard on Tuesday. Temple for 10 am. Issued with capes. Patrol in woods, an awful job. Had tea at home. Left at 9-15 pm. Took her home she's not so well, suspect impetigo.
3 MON
Tiring day. Transport a heck of a job. Snow a nuisance. School at 7-0 pm. to 9-0 pm. Saw Joan. Vera been to doctors', got some inhalent[sic]. Bed at 10-30 pm
4 TUES
School at 2-0 p.m. till 5-0 pm. Went for her after school. Home by bus. Called at Buttons & was kept till 6-45 p.m. Furious, can't see her now. Temple at 8-15 pm. Sirens at 10-pm. All clear at 12-5 am. No bombs.
5 WED
Rang her at dinner-time. Went up to Vera's at 6-45 pm. Ritz at 7-10 p.m. Snowing again. Saw "New Moon", Nelson Eddy, Jeanette Macdonald very good. Snowed heavy afterwards, She's such a star.
6 THUR
Went to nightschool at 7-0 pm. to 9-0 pm. Home and bed at 10 pm. Boss not too good. Suspect flu.
7 FRI
Dennis home for 7 days. Went up to see Vera. Stayed till 10-40 pm saw Dennis coming home from Mollys. Vera has next week holiday
8 SAT
Went up to see weddings at church. Called round and had cup of tea. Regal at night to see "The Westerner". Very disappointing. Vera didn't like it either. Stayed till 10-30 pm
[page break]
9 SUN
Ron & I took my round. Les took other. Went to church, sat on my own. Had tea round at Vera's. Dennis & Molly were in. Read in room for a while. Had supper, left at 11-0 pm
10 MON
Tiring day, told Harry to cut Maryland Point, hope I'm right. Nightschool 7-0 to 9-0 pm. Home and so to bed.
11 TUES
Boss came in morning, but didn't stay long. Went up at 3-30 pm. Called at Kilners for watch. Had tea at Coop Cafe, then to Grand. Very good show. Went up with them, and left at 10-45 pm
12 WED
Tiring day, had headache. Stayed in and did homework. Vera came down, but I wasn't very sociable. Took her home at 10-30 pm.
13 THUR
Went for hardware for post. Nightschool at night, 7-0 to 9-0 pm. Didn't feel too good, couldn't concentrate on work. Home to bed.
14 FRI
Sent her a Valentine. Gregson fitted light to fire-watching post from office. No power all day. They played billiards at night so went up to see Tom. Passed Vera's but did not call. Dennis staying.
15 SAT
Called at Aunt Gladys'. Did homework in afternoon. Didn't feel too good. Went up at 7-30 pm. She has impetigo poor dear. Stayed in till 10-15 pm. Had a walk & then went home. She's such a darling.
[page break]
16 SUN
Ron & I took paper's, Les took one round. Temple at 10-15 a.m. Very bitter wind. Didn't go to church. Saw her after, & took her home for tea. Face all green with liningent. Had to go on guard at 7-30 pm. Left her at Irwin Arms. Don't see much of her lately.
17 MON
Home at 12-30 am. Bed at 1-0 am. Rotten headache. Nightschool at night 7-0 pm to 9-0 pm. Leslie in bed ill, doctor coming tomorrow. Not so good myself.
18 TUES
Bad headache all day. Felt cold. School in afternoon 2-0 to 5-0 p.m. Didn't go to Home Guard, did some homework. Mother not so well. Ronnie has bad cough. Guard on Friday night.
19 WED
Cold, feverish, bad headache stayed in office as much as possible. Sirens sounded 4-15 pm. All-Clear 5-20 pm. Ronnie in bed ill. Called at Gladys' then to Vera's. She's a bit better, glad I went. Left at 10-30 p.m.
20 THUR
Ronnie stayed in bed . Doctor coming to Leslie. Mother no better. Pain at back of eyes, felt weak & shivery. Went to nightschool 7-0 pm. to 9-0 pm. Home and then to bed.
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FEBRUARY-MARCH 1941
28 FRI
Stayed in and did homework
1 SAT MARCH
Had hair-cut in afternoon. Didn't do homework. Went up at 7-30 pm. Her mother not well. Stayed in. Sirens for 10 mins. Home at 11-0 pm. Wish we were older.
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1941 MARCH
2 SUN
Papers as usual, didn't go on parade. Called for Lucy & went to church. Had tea at our house. Had a walk to Templenewsam. She's adorable. Supper and home.
3 MON
Ron had to go for 9-o'clock. Think he'll go to Padgate. Nightschool 7-0 pm to 9-0 pm. Home and to bed at 10-30 pm.
4 TUES
No news of Ron. Rang Vera, and went for 1 o'clock. Went to Town Hall to hear organ. Very good. School at 2-0 p.m. till 5-0 pm. Broadbent back again. Stayed in at night & did homework. Saw Tom at school.
5 WED
Everybody likes her photo. Boss too.
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9 SUN
Got ready for 9-15 am. Stocks didn't come so went up for nothing. Raining heavily. Finished at 12 a.m. Church in afternoon. Had tea at Vera's
10 MON
Had to go to nightschool in uniform. Got up to Mansion at 9-50 p.m. Sirens went about 10-30 pm. Was orderly. others had to stand-to. All-clear at 12-20 am. Layed down & had about 11/2hrs sleep. Tired when I got up. Left at 6-15 am.
11 TUES
Went down for 1'o'clock. Went to Town Hall, had a young girl singing for him. Went to school. Called at Col. Office and entered for National Cert. Stayed in and did homework.
12 WED
Rang her at dinner. Said she was taking me out, but said I wouldn't let her. She was annoyed. Went up at 7-15 pm. Went out, had walk right up Whinmore and back. She would not speak to me till Crossgate Parade. We made up again. Sirens at 10-15 pm A.C. 3-30 am
13 THUR
Nightschool at 7-0 pm to 9-0 pm. Left and was at Woodpecker when siren's went. Went up to Vera's and left at 10-30 p.m. Raiders were not over here, but guns fired spasmodically All Clear at 2-0 am
14 FRI
Sirens at 9-10 pm. Vera came down before they went. Tried to do some homework but did not do much. Terrific barrage of A.A. bombs near-by. Took her home at 10-45 p.m. She was scared, poor darling. Some incendiaries, raid got nearer. All-Clear 3-45 am
15 SAT
Leeds caught it last night. Shrapnel all-over the place. More damage done than we thought. Market, Town Hall, Museum, Stations, Farnley, Wortley, Elland Road, T.E.P. Basinghall [deleted word] hosts of others badly damaged. 50 dead, 250 homeless. Took Vera & Betty to Ritz to see Pride & Prejudice. Ronnie fire watching.
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16 SUN
Quiet night. London caught most of raids. Fog during night. Took our own papers. Leslie's shop got direct hit, starts with U. Jim Monday. Tea at our house, church in uniform. Had to go to Templenewsam for 8-30 p.m. Guard from 12-15 am. to 1-30 am. Nothing to report.
17 MON
More reports of air raid damage & casualties.
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19 THUR
Went to Cardington on 1 p.m train from Leeds. Arrived at 7.30 p.m. had supper & went to bed.
20 FRI
Had exams all day & got through them all. Left at 9-30 p.m. for home again. Arrived at 4.0 a.m.
21 SAT
Slept till 2 pm rang Vera up and boss too. Said I'd to wait about 3 months at least before being sent for.
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1941 JULY
7 MON
Left Leeds & my darling at 10-15 am. Arrived at Lords at 4-0 pm. Got through administration & got into billets at 7-0 pm. Am in 7 flight.
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19 SAT
Moved from Stockleigh to Avenue Close after a fortnights' training, feel rather tired but getting used to it
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26 SAT
Left Avenue Close at 5-30 am, up @ 3-0 am. Entrained at K. Cross at 6-0 am. Arrived at Leuchars at 7-0 p.m. Had good supper & went to bed. Grand place. Very tired
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JULY-AUGUST 1941
27 SUN
Had a rather tiring day filling in docs and drawing equipment. Good meals here & very good billets
28 MON
Started lessons. Flt Lt Kerr is our officer i/c. Seems we've plenty of work to do here.
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1941 AUGUST
3 SUN
Went down on drome & had 3 flights in a Hudson. Very good here so far.
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13 WED
Had [unreadable] exam in maths, managed 90%
16 SAT
Crash at St Andrews. Hudson burned out. Pilot & Observer dead.
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18 MON
Funeral, had to act as cortege followers. Pipe band played dirges very solemn proceedings.
20 WED
Had [deleted word] final exam in maths, think I got through O.K.
23 SAT
Siren for an hour, nothing doing.
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24 SUN
Went up to sports ground & watched lads play Station Defence & win at rugby. Crash in afternoon, Hudson damaged by Beaufort.
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[2 missing pages]
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SEPTEMBER 1941
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1941 SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER
3 FRI
Left for 9 days leave at 3 pm. Stayed in Edinburgh 5 hrs Leeds at 4.45 am. Missed them & went home on my own & was having breakfast when they arrived. She's really wonderful & it's good to be home again.
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OCTOBER 1941
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12 SUN
Left Leeds & my darling at 2 p.m. for Leuchars. Have had a marvellous time at home. Got in at 11-30 p.m. Tired & weary
17 FRI
Left Leuchars for London at 7-20 p.m. Sorry to leave wish we could stay here for all our training. Travelling all night special compartment.
18 SAT
Arrived at 9-15 a.m. Tired & hungry. Went to Abbey Lodge & finally to Avenue Close. Shook 'em with our drill.
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1941 OCTOBER-NOVEMBER
1 SAT NOVEMBER
Left Avenue Close for Hall Road
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[2 missing pages]
NOVEMBER 1941
21 FRI
Had flying kit issued. Going tomorrow thank goodness.
22 SAT
Left Hall Rd. for Clyffe Pypard 9 am. Arrived 12-30 pm Dinner then docs, pay accounts etc. Civilian air drome. Food poor.
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23 SUN
Flew in morning with P/O Holyoake my instructor. Poor food here. Badly cooked.
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NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 1941
2 TUES
Left at 3-30 pm for Swindon on 48 hrs. Got 7-0 pm train to London & 10-40 pm from there
3 WED
Arrived 5-15 a.m. Mum & others impressed. Went up to Vera's and woke her up. She didn't go to work & we had a very nice day.
4 THUR
Went with Vera in morning & left at 2-10 p.m. for London & arrived at Swindon at 10-30 pm. Transport took us back to camp.
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1941 DECEMBER
12 FRI
Took in our flying clothing & boots, gumboots & socks. Packed up ready for going
13 SAT
Left at 11-30 am for 14 days embarkation leave. Arrived home at 9-45 pm. Vera & her Mum were at our house.
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14 SUN
Bed at 3-30 am. Vera stayed overnight. She starts at Training Centre tomorrow morning.
15 MON
Took her to Kirkstall Rd for 9 am. Called at Aunt Elsie's. Went for her at 9 pm. She's on 2 to 9's
16 TUES
Went in town for a ring & got one at Owen & Robinsons. Two stones set on cross, platinum top. Dinner at Coop.
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27 SAT
Left at 9-18 am for Manchester & arrived at 12-0 am. In private billets with Mrs Byron 11 Polefield Gardens. Ray Vera at night
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28 SUN
Wrote home & to Vera. Food is good here, discipline is slack. Nothing to do from 10 am
29 MON
Breakfast 8 am. Parade at 8-45 am. Stood about all day so finished at 4 pm.
30 TUES
Same as yesterday.
31 WED
Gave in our [unreadable] clothing & steel helmets. Went out at night with the lads got in at 12-30 am.
End of 1941 & me an engaged man. Better things for 1942 I hope. Shouldn't be surprised if we moved at the weekend
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[calendar dates 1941]
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Left at 8-0 am
reached Sussex at 9-0 a.m.
reached Rothesay at 10-5 a.m.
reached Coldbrook at
Across border at Vanceboro
Changed trains 8-15 p.m. at Portland.
Collection
Citation
K Gill, “Kenneth Gill 1941 Architect's and builder's diary,” IBCC Digital Archive, accessed April 16, 2024, https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/collections/document/35543.
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