Friendship

“I didn’t think I’d last a week there with the different types of girls which you had to cope with in a factory but, then, I was one of ‘em at finish!.” (Gladys)

‘Factory girls’ were often seen as mouthy, loud and rude. Although for some women like Lillian, experiencing factory talk came as a shock at first, lasting friendships were quickly made. As Jean remembers, “It just…bred camaraderie really…”

Rowntrees encouraged these friendships, as long as they did not interfere with work, and women were allowed to talk and even sing. ‘Having a laugh’ gave women a break from the factory routine and practical jokes were often played. Though many of the women remembered playing practical jokes on their colleagues they refused to give details for fear of reprisals!

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