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Fritchley, Derbyshire: Peaceful Protestors in Prison

At the outbreak of World War One there was a well-established Quaker Community in Fritchley, Derbyshire. When conscription came into force the men at the chapel remained resolutely against war. They were regarded as absolutists and remained opposed to any work which had military control.

The Quakers stance caused animosity within the local community and there are accounts of attacks and nasty mail being sent to those that refused to go to war.

In time the men, including Henry Smith, were arrested and imprisoned for their beliefs. Whilst in prison they were subjected to solitary confinement and given a diet of just bread and water.

Many were eventually released from prison but only after German prisoners of war.

Location: Fritchley, Derbyshire DE56 2FR
Image shows Fritchley Quaker House

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