Reach Gallery

LFB-AFS Commer transportable water unit (back)

LFB-AFS Commer transportable water unit (TWU, commonly known as the Bikini). It carries three deflated rubber rafts and nine light portable pumps. Fitted to the chassis is a hand-operated crane of half a ton capacity which can be operated by two men. It is fitted on a moveable mounting at the rear of the vehicle with a jib of 14 feet in reach. Equipment includes four spare CO2 cylinders, inflator, hose, lines, webbing and ladders

© London Fire Brigade / Mary Evans Picture Library

The Yacht Eira in the Arctic, 1881

Engraving showing the yacht Eira, used by Benjamin Leigh Smith, to explore the Arctic region around Franz Joseph Land and the ocean North of Russia, 1881-1882. The Eira was caught in the ice and sank off Cape Flora in August 1881. The crew then endured an epic journey to safety, dragging the ship's boats over ice and sailing through a strong gale to try to reach Nova Zembla. They were rescued by Sir Allen Young in the ship Hope at Matotchkin Strait, August 1882

© Illustrated London News Ltd/Mary Evans

Family between Dallas and Austin, Texas

Family between Dallas and Austin, Texas. The people have left their home and connections in South Texas, and hope to reach the Arkansas Delta for work in the cotton fields. Penniless people. No food and three gallons of gas in the tank. The father is trying to repair a tire. Three children. Father says, It's tough but life's tough anyway you take it. Date 1936 Aug. Family between Dallas and Austin, Texas. The people have left their home and connections in South Texas, and hope to reach the Arkansas Delta for work in the cotton fields. Penniless people. No food and three gallons of gas in the tank. The father is trying to repair a tire. Three children. Father says, It's tough but life's tough anyway you take it. Date 1936 Aug

© Mary Evans / Library of Congress