London’s Screen Archives enables Londoners see their past come alive on film. Managed by Film London, we are a unique network of historic film collections that cares for, collects and screens heritage film across the city. Together we preserve London’s rich film heritage from feature films to home movies, public information films, newsreels, and records of the capital’s many different industries.
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Munition Explosion, Ashton-under-Lyne
Moving and dignified scenes from Ashton-under Lyne, as a funeral procession takes place for 43 people killed in an explosion at a TNT factory.
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Overview
Black funeral horses are seen gathering in the centre of the town, each pulling a coffin for the 43 people that were killed in a devastating explosion at an armaments factory in June 1917. Hundreds gather to watch the service, which takes place in the somewhat ominous, symbolic presence of a mounted cannon. Soldiers are everywhere, and later lead a marching band in procession through the town.
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