Chelsea at War

Join us for a fascinating panel talk exploring Chelsea and its surrounding areas during — and in the aftermath of — the Second World War.

About the event

Our speakers will uncover what civilian life was like during the conflict, how the Blitz reshaped the neighbourhood, and the remarkable stories of those who helped protect and rebuild the area. We will also explore the famous Chelsea–Dynamo Moscow football match at Stamford Bridge, a memorable post-war moment that marked both celebration and renewal.

Our panellists will cover:

Dr Emily Mayhew will discuss the impact of the Blitz on Chelsea, daily life during the bombardments, and how the area changed as a result of wartime damage.

Michael Stephen, Vice-Chair of the Chelsea Society ,will explore the role of the Chelsea Society during the war, including the efforts to save Chelsea Old Church after it was bombed, and share compelling stories from the Society’s wartime Minutes.

Rick Glanvill, official historian of Chelsea Football Club will examine the famous Chelsea–Dynamo Moscow match in the aftermath of the war, which drew record-breaking crowds to Stamford Bridge and became a symbolic moment of celebration following Allied victory.

The discussion will be chaired by Katie Wignall.

About the speakers

Dr Mayhew is a military medical historian specialising in the study of severe casualties, their infliction, treatment, and long-term outcomes in 20th- and 21st-century warfare. She is Historian in Residence in the Department of Bioengineering, working primarily with researchers and staff at the Centre for Injury Studies.

Michael Stephen is Vice-Chairman of the Chelsea Society and Editor of its Annual Report and Bulletins.

Rick Glanvill is a multiple award-winning writer, author, and researcher based in London. His work covers social history, genealogy, music, and football. He has worked across Chelsea FC’s publications and media since 1993 and is the club’s official historian.

Katie Wignall is a London Blue Badge Tourist Guide and founder of Look Up London, a multi award-winning London history blog and walking tour company.