1966 was a year of transformation for the small village of Leiston in Suffolk. The opening of the Sizewell power station was set to dramatically shift the economic landscape, bringing an influx of workers and new energy to the area. Amidst this change, there was a place that held steady: the local pub, the Engineer. Through the lens of American-born photographer Libby Hall, let’s journey back to a slice of life in Leiston at this pivotal time.
The Engineer Pub
To understand life in Leiston in 1966, one must first understand the importance of the local pub. The Engineer wasn’t just a place for grabbing a pint after work; it was a community hub, a place where news was shared, friendships forged, and the day’s work was either celebrated or commiserated.
Hall, who was working at Summerhill School at the time, chose to document life at the Engineer. Her photos beautifully capture the essence of this pub, offering us a glimpse of its warm, welcoming atmosphere, the camaraderie among patrons, and the ebb and flow of daily life within its walls.
Workers Clocking Off
As the Sizewell power station became operational, the regular crowd at the Engineer began to change. The faces of the local farmers and tradesmen were joined by a new breed of workers: nuclear power plant employees. However, despite their differing backgrounds and roles, they found common ground at the Engineer.
Hall’s photos capture these men as they clock off and head for their beloved local. The photographs depict them in their work clothes, sharing laughs over pints of beer, their faces a mix of weariness from a day’s work and the anticipation of a well-earned rest. Their camaraderie shines through, showing how the Engineer was a place of unity amidst the changing times.
The Unsung Hero
At the heart of every great pub is a great publican, and the Engineer was no exception. The publican’s role extended beyond serving drinks. They were the confidante, the mediator, and often, the evening’s entertainment.
Hall’s photographs give us glimpses of the publican at work, pouring drinks, chatting with patrons, and creating an atmosphere of cheer and warmth. Despite the demanding nature of the job, their dedication to their work and their community is clearly visible.
A Village’s Turning Point
These photos also capture a critical moment in Leiston’s history. With the opening of the Sizewell power station, the village was on the cusp of significant change. However, the Engineer remained a constant, a comforting reminder of community and continuity amidst the shifting landscape.
Hall’s frank and insightful documentary style successfully encapsulates this turning point, offering us an intimate window into this period of transformation. The images chronicle the resilience and adaptability of the community, and the central role the Engineer played in maintaining the spirit of Leiston during this time.
