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Lumberjills moving tree to crosscut it.
“They really did move it, believe it or not.” Doris Youde (née Stanyon), June 1944, Bardon Hill Woods, Leicestershire.
Lumberjill laying in with an axe.
“A W.T.C. in action felling.” Doris Youde, June 1944 at Bardon Hill Woods, Leicestershire. Photo: Doris Youde (née Stanyon).
Lumberjills crosscutting with bushman saw in woods
A ‘Bushman’ was the type of bowsaw they were using. June 1944 at Bardon Hill Woods, Leicestershire. Photo: Doris Youde (née Stanyon).
Burning lop and top in the woods
June 1944, Bardon Hill Woods, Leicestershire. Photo: Doris Youde (née Stanyon).
Tractor driver hauling tree into mill site.
“Yours truly not aware she was being photographed, and having just given directions as to where tree should be taken.” Doris Youde (née Stanyon), June 1944, Bardon Hill Woods, Leicestershire.

Welcome to the Lumberjills

This is where the forgotten heroines of World War Two come to life. Discover their stories as told by Joanna Foat, the UK expert on the Women's Timber Corps. Joanna has not only brought their forgotten history to thousands of people worldwide but written a history book, a novel and created a stunning photobook from an archive of incredible black and white photos. So you can now immerse yourself in these captivating stories and see for yourself the freedom these brave, young, adventurous women experienced while in the forest. 

New Photobook

Available Now

Step back in time and discover the extraordinary women who became Britain’s Lumberjills during World War II.


This stunning photo book reveals never-before-seen images of the brave Women's Timber Corps who felled trees, worked in sawmills and drove timber haulage trucks to power the war effort.


Their stories of strength, resilience, and freedom will inspire generations to come.

The Lumberjills Photo Book Front Cover
Lumberjills Britains Forgotten Army Audiobook Cover

Audiobook

Available

The original Lumberjills stories are brought to life by the natural, intelligent and alluring voice actor, Lucy Tregear.


"I feel like I am listening to the Lumberjills all over again! To hear their stories live on is so important, especially as all but one of the women I met have passed away."  Joanna Foat

The Lumberjills Stronger Together Front Cover

International Award


The front cover of The Lumberjills Stronger Together was selected as a GOLD Award Winner in the prestigious and internationally acclaimed Graphis Design Awards (2025). 

Meet the Lumberjills

LASTING LEGACY OF THE LUMBERJILLS


‘Many of the Lumberjills I met were upset that they had not been recognised for their contribution to the war, so I wanted to make sure they were remembered. Now their incredible feats of physical and mental endurance and stories inspire women today. Given the freedom and opportunity to work together out in the forest, the Lumberjills became very strong and were a huge success.’ 

Joanna Foat

  Celebrating Women in History