Rushden Research Group: Red Shield Huts

Red Shield Huts

During the First World War, The Salvation Army provided motor ambulances and refreshment huts.

During World War Two they were called "Red Shield Huts" after the Salvation Army's symbol, their mission to provide canteen and rest stations for serving men. They also provided some international hostels and clubs for servicemen.

The Salvation Army's Red Shield canteen has been a fixture with Armed Forces personnel with huts in military camps and parcels of food and clothing for combatants. Some ministers also give support to them.

Rushden Echo & Argus, 8^th September 1944

Camp Surprise—Visiting an East Anglian airfield recently, Rushden A.T.C. boys were surprised to find that the Red Shield hut was the one for which the people of Rushden subscribed in memory of Miss Gertrude Cocksedge, the young Salvation Army officer who was killed in a London air raid. They were made very welcome at the hut, and one of the boys, Cadet Davison, accompanied community singing on the organ, which was part of Rushdenâs gift.

Writing Home