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Wessex Film and Sound Archive has a strong connection with the maritime history of the region and holds many films that relate to this subject and Southampton docks in particular. 'Port of Destiny', made in 1946 is a documentary film promoting the work of Southampton docks and was originally released for cinema, but Wessex Film and Sound Archive is believed to have the only surviving print. The film shows the history of the docks and contains fascinating Second World War footage of the preparations for war at the docks. The commentary on the film indicates the earnest pride in the achievements of the dock and the film shows the working men of the docks, unloading from the banana boat, the conversion of paddle steamers into mine sweepers as part of the war effort, and contrasts the embarkation of the elegant 1930s cruise passengers with the transporting of Second World War foot soldiers. Another clip from 'Port of Destiny' can be seen on Moving History's 'Films from the Home Front' site, showing the blitz bombing of the port during war-time. The archive holds many other films on naval and maritime history related subjects including the 'Hythe Ferry Films' which also feature the Southampton docks. The archive also holds many films illustrating aspects of the war-time history of the region. |
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