BSFWRS

The British Science-Fiction War Relief Society or BSFWRS was created by John Cunningham of Texas in August 1941 to supply works of science fiction to British fans during the Second World War. In a letter published in Futurian War Digest #11 he said:

Herewith I wish to announce to you that I have formed the BSFWRS British Science Fiction War Relief Society and as director of said organisation – ask your support and help in same. The purpose of the NON-PROFIT organisation is to supply FREE OF CHARGE to British S-F fans, United States Pro S-F magazines –to help spread the pleasure that Science Fiction brings and to keep alive its interest; since the war has cut off their supply from the United States publishing companies.

Julian Parr and Edwin Macdonald were respectively English and Scottish representatives until they were called up. Bob Gibson, a Canadian fan stationed in the UK also played a role and Jack Gibson later became UK representative. The BSFWRS had ceased by April 1944 (Futurian War Digest #34 referred to it as 'alas-defunct') and in August 1944 Jack Gibson brought its collection into the British Fantasy Society as part of their library.

From Fancyclopedia 1, ca. 1944

British Science-Fiction War Relief Society. Because of war conditions British fans for the most part were unable to get American pro mags. John Cunningham set up an agency by this name to receive contributions of cash or magazines, and mail bundles of them to the Anglofans. Some of the British Second Fandom thot they were better off for not having the American pros, but others commended the project. Cunningham's style of writing did not inspire respect among the American fans, but the bureau continued to function until Cunningham went into the army, and unorganized activities of the same sort were carried out by others.

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