Name/Title
Defence of the Realm poster 1939Entry/Object ID
2510Description
Medium sized poster (45.3cm x 37.1cm) printed on pale yellow coloured very thin paper, headed "Defence of the Realm" informing the public of the implementation of the Emergency Powers (Defence) Act of 1939. This poster is folder and contained in a brown envelope typewritten "Urgent To Be Posted On The Police Station Notice Board Immediately". Above this handwritten in pencil is "Catsfield".Use
To advise the public of a national state of emergency and the existence of new government powers.Context
Throughout the late 1930s events in Europe had led to the belief that war was highly likely and as a result re armaments had begun and extensive preparations were made for civil defence. The announcement of the Nazi - Soviet Pact on the 23rd August 1939 led the next day to the passing of the Emergency Powers (Defence) Act 1939, which gave the government emergency powers it would need should war be declared.
This poster was one of a number that were intended to be placed on police notice boards in East Sussex, this particular one intended for Catsfield Police Station. This was one of a number of small rural police offices attached to the residence of a rural police officer in the Battle Sub Division of East Sussex Constabulary. It is not known whether these posters were printed in advance of the Act being passed or shortly afterwards. Why it was not used is not known, but others also in their envelopes from the force are also known of, including one from the same division, intended for Robertsbridge. They also seem not to have been used, so perhaps they were withdrawn or superseded by another version.