The Eagle hut disturbance, 1919
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The Eagle hut disturbance, 1919
Soldiers, sailors and civilians retiring from Bow Street police station following a riot where a crowd of around 1000 had protested at the arrest of two American soldiers, who had been playing a gambling game outside the YMCA Eagle Hut in Aldwych. The disturbance resulted in all American soldiers being transferred to other quarters and US sailors recalled to their ships. Date: 1919
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Media ID 14157903
© Illustrated London News Ltd/Mary Evans
Aldwych Americans Arrest Arrested Civilians Disturbance Eagle Gambling Protest Riot Riots Sailors Ymca 1919
EDITORS COMMENTS
This evocative photograph captures the aftermath of the Eagle Hut disturbance in London's Aldwych in 1919. The incident began when a crowd of around 1000 people gathered to protest the arrest of two American soldiers, who had been playing a gambling game outside the YMCA Eagle Hut. The soldiers, along with other American servicemembers, were subsequently transferred to other quarters, and US sailors were recalled to their ships. The First World War had ended just months prior, and tensions were high as the city adjusted to the return of troops and the challenges of peace. The Eagle Hut, a popular recreational center for American servicemembers, had long been a source of friction between the military personnel and the local population. The gambling game in question, faro, was a favorite pastime of the soldiers but was considered illegal in the UK. The photograph shows a diverse group of individuals, including soldiers, sailors, and civilians, making their way down Bow Street following their release from the police station. The somber expressions on their faces speak to the seriousness of the situation, while the uniforms and military gear serve as a reminder of the ongoing military presence in the city. This historical image offers a unique glimpse into the complex social dynamics of post-war London and the challenges of readjusting to peacetime life. It also highlights the importance of understanding the cultural differences and tensions that can arise between military personnel and local communities during times of transition and uncertainty.
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