Exploring the rich multicultural history of Devon.

Czech refugees and the WE Glove Factory, Bideford

Posted on

29th September 1939

Posted by

Chelsea Vincent

Posted in

Bideford Timeline
Historic view of Bridgeland Street (image courtesy of Peter Christie)

Several refugees from the Nazi advance came to live in Bideford.  The Fischer family from Czechoslovakia became well-known glove manufacturers in Bideford.  

Several refugees from the Nazi advance came to live in Bideford.  One prominent family were the Fischers, from Czechoslovakia. Fritz Egon Fischer (otherwise known as Bredrich Fischer), married to Olga, lived at 1 Bridgeland Street in 1939. His brother Paul (Pavel) lived in Northam. 

The Fischers were prominent glove makers in Czechoslovakia. Escaping from the Nazi advance, the Fischers came to Bideford for refuge.  They set up a small glove factory in Bideford, WE Gloves, which also provided work for other refugees.

Watch an interview with WE factory worker Mabel here.