This Week In Cigar History September 1 - 5

Marking a tactical shift in Hitler's military strategy, intense round-the-clock Nazi bombings of London began this week on September 7th, 1940.

During this time period, the English skies were relentlessly shaken by hundreds of menacing German bombers and fighters -- against a backdrop of piercing sirens alerting residents of imminent air raids. The results were often sheer mayhem. By the end of the terrifying months' long assault, thousands of buildings had been destroyed, including tobacconist Alfred H. Dunhill's famous retail establishment on Duke Street...and over 43,000 individuals had died.

The stalwart cigar-smoking politician and patron of Dunhill's, Winston Churchill demonstrated his leadership capabilities and majestically led Britain through its "darkest hours" -- while puffing away on his favorite 7-inch, 48 ring gauge stogies. In turn, many emboldened English citizens also admirably confirmed the characteristic British 'stiff upper-lip'...and carried on with their daily lives as best they could. For example, after his store was bombed, Dunhill thoroughly examined his humidors and reportedly placed a 2am telephone call to Churchill -- assuring the British leader that:

"Your cigars are safe, Sir."

Additionally, the stately Englishman manned a makeshift desk amidst the shattered ruins of his shop with a placard declaring "Dunhill's Enquiries Within" -- announcing to all customers and passers by alike -- he was still open for business.

This Week in Cigar History

9/2/08

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