Relics of the trenches

For the February meeting, Chris Bonnet came from Bridlington to show us his relics from the trenches of the First World War. Most of the young men from the east coast of Yorkshire had never been far from home before so a foreign country was exciting. Photos of them in uniform taken by French photographers were commonly sent home, as were post cards, beautifully embroidered by French and Belgian women. Most of these were not used as post cards but sent home in packets or brought home on leave. Chris showed a number of these fine little works of art. During idle spells, those with trades’ experience used what was available to make items such as metal match box cases and small coal scuttles. Chris brought two beautifully decorated vases made from discarded shell cases, the patterns beaten out with make-shift tools.

Troops’ treasured possessions included cigarette lighters, pocket dictionaries, prayer books and the tin of presents sent to each soldier by Princess Mary at Christmas 1914. We were also shown examples of medals awarded, letters from padres and friends to widows and bereaved parents. Chris’ interest in the fate of local soldiers arose from his search for the grave of his wife’s great uncle, a search which has revealed some sad but fascinating stories.

David Lane followed with a very well presented display of the stamps produced by Nazi Germany in 1937. The German government pioneered the exploitation of postage stamps for propaganda, for raising funds for “national defence”, “civil defence” and “winter relief ” as well as payment for postage. Well designed and printed stamps, souvenir envelopes with elaborate cancellations, and hero-worship of Hitler gave an interesting but disturbing display.

The society meets in Scarborough Library at 7pm on the first Tuesday of the month. The next meeting will be on March 7. Visitors interested in stamps and postal history are welcome to join us.