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From the Dunoon
Observer and
Argyllshire Standard Oct 10, 2007 |
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Statue to
the 'Lumberjills' unveiled |
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The
First Memorial to the members of the
Women's Timber Corps
(W.T.C.) who ensured
vital timber supplies during World War II has been unveiled.
October 10, 2007 |
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A life size bronze sculpture of
a 'Lumberjill' stands in the Queen Elizabeth Forest Park near Aberfoyle.
Recruits were enlisted to the Corps as part of the Women's Land Army during
World War II and posted across the UK. Many were sent to remote areas, living in
spartan conditions to undertake the heavy work of timber production. The statue
was commissioned by the Forestry Commission from Fife-based artist Malcolm
Robertson and was unveiled by Environment Minister Michael Russell.
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Creating a lasting memorial and 'thank you'
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As the WTC was a section of the
Women’s Land Army, it has had no official recognition of its efforts during the
war. Until very recently there were no representative at official Armistice Day
Parades and no separate wreath at the Cenotaph - in fact, they had become the
‘Forgotten Corps'. |
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In order to provide a lasting
memorial to the women of the Women's Timber Corps, Forestry Commission Scotland commissioned a
study in 2006, which concluded that the most appropriate site for a memorial
would be in the Queen Elizabeth Forest Park, with a preferred location being
David Marshall Lodge near Aberfoyle. This is an established and well-appreciated
site, with many of the facilities required for visits from existing members of
the
Women's
Timber Corps. |
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In December 2006 a shortlist of
potential artists was drawn up, and Forestry Commission Scotland commissioned a
Fife-based artist, Malcolm
Robertson, to
create the memorial. Mr. Robertson has previously worked on art installations
within the Queen Elizabeth Forest Park.
(Click here to see a picture of the wax
carving before casting in bronze) |
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The sculpture is a life-size
bronze of a member of the WTC. Visitors will approach it from the back; this
perspective will help the visitor appreciate that the figure is female and that she
has her right hand raised to her face in what appears to be a salute. |
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Once the visitor reaches the front
of the sculpture it becomes apparent that she is looking out, perhaps reflecting
on past times, or simply looking over her work and efforts or to the future at
Wars end. |
The site for the statue has been donated by Forest
Enterprise Scotland, and a path will be constructed to the base and around it.
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