first world war objects - imperial war...

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Imperial War Museums (IWM) is regularly contacted by members of the public and asked to help identify objects relating to the First World War. Experience has shown that the majority of these items fall into a predictable range. These ‘Notes on First World War Objects’ give information on some of them, and pointers to where further information can be found. We hope they will prove useful to non-specialists facing enquiries about such items, or preparing exhibitions featuring them, whether in libraries, small museums, or other community venues or groups. It is important to remember that while the objects listed here are comparatively ‘common’ in that they were often mass-produced and exist in large numbers in family collections within the UK, to the enquirer (who may not be aware of their lack of scarcity) these items can carry particular emotional or familial significance, especially if individually named. It is important to balance the need for realistic information about an object with sensitivity to the enquirers’ own relationship with that object. We would be pleased to know more about how you’re using these guides in your work – contact Fergus Read, Head of Collections Access, on [email protected]. Contents

1. British Service Medals ............................................................................................................................................... 3

2. Next of Kin Memorial Plaque, Scroll and King’s Message ............................................................................. 7

3. Silver War Badge and King’s Certificate on Discharge ................................................................................ 10

4. Army Demobilisation Papers ............................................................................................................................... 12

5. Uniform Badges and Portrait Photographs ..................................................................................................... 14

6. ‘On War Service’ Badges ......................................................................................................................................... 19

7. Regimental Brooches and Lucky Charms ........................................................................................................ 21

8. Princess Mary Gift Fund 1914 Box and Contents .......................................................................................... 23

9. Trench Art .................................................................................................................................................................... 26

10. Crested China ............................................................................................................................................................. 29

NOTES ON… FIRST WORLD WAR OBJECTS

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1. British Service Medals Military medals cause a lot of confusion. It is not widely appreciated that most British medals simply reflect campaign service or long service – they are not decorations for acts of bravery. Six medals were authorised for campaign service in the First World War. An individual could earn anything from one to four of them, but most received two or three. The sheer scale of enlistment in the First World War is shown by the fact that the British War Medal was awarded to 6.5 million of the British and Imperial Forces who left the shores of their home country. Fortunately, First World War service medals were issued with naming details stamped on the rim or back (those in the Second World War, to UK recipients, were unnamed). To issue and name the medals correctly, extensive records (‘medal rolls’) were compiled, the originals of which are held at The National Archives (TNA) at Kew. The Army created an index of over 5 million cards, which has been digitised and is the best single source for most people starting First World War family history research, since if a soldier served overseas, they would have been eligible for at least one medal, and so would have an index card. The digital searching can help with tracing where only partial details are known – such as surname and initial, rank or unit, or service number. So the Medal Index Cards (or MICs) are a comprehensive and indexed source, usefully bringing together several factual elements, armed with which a researcher can know where next to try. The Navy created ledgers to record the issue of First World War service medals, which are also digitised and indexed at Kew. There are no RAF medal rolls as such at Kew, although see the sources below for more details. If the ancestor returned from overseas service with the Royal Naval Air Service or the Royal Flying Corps before they merged to form the RAF in April 1918, then they may be listed among the naval or army medal records. Examples from IWM’s collection L Left to right 1914–1915 Star – OMD 791 1914 Star with bar – OMD 792 British War Medal – OMD 794 Victory Medal – OMD 1042

http://www.iwm.org.uk/collections/item/object/30007058http://www.iwm.org.uk/collections/item/object/30007059http://www.iwm.org.uk/collections/item/object/30006892http://www.iwm.org.uk/collections/item/object/30007044

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Left to right Territorial Force War Medal – OMD 790 Mercantile Marine War Medal – OMD 141 (see OMD 140 for a more complete description) A typical trio of medals for First World War operational service – known as ‘Pip, Squeak and Wilfrid’ – OMD 1110–112O Website sources The Great War 1914–1918 www.greatwar.co.uk/medals/ww1-campaign-medals.htm General introduction to the range of six First World War service medals. There is a good introduction as to how to develop research based on First World War service medals at www.greatwar.co.uk/medals/british-ww1-medal-records.htm The Long, Long Trail www.1914-1918.net/grandad/themedals.htm Introduction to the main army medals and ‘Interpreting a Medal Index Card’ at www.1914-1918.net/grandad/mic.htm The National Archives [TNA] www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/records/research-guides/medals-british-armed-services-campaign-service.htm The website has an introductory guide to campaign service medals and also explains First World War Medal Index cards (also available digitally to Ancestry subscribers) at www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/documentsonline/medals.asp

http://www.iwm.org.uk/collections/item/object/30007057http://www.iwm.org.uk/collections/item/object/30007503http://www.iwm.org.uk/collections/item/object/30007421http://www.iwm.org.uk/collections/item/object/30007654http://www.greatwar.co.uk/medals/ww1-campaign-medals.htmhttp://www.greatwar.co.uk/medals/british-ww1-medal-records.htmhttp://www.1914-1918.net/grandad/themedals.htmhttp://www.1914-1918.net/grandad/mic.htmhttp://www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/records/research-guides/medals-british-armed-services-campaign-service.htmhttp://www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/records/research-guides/medals-british-armed-services-campaign-service.htmhttp://www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/documentsonline/medals.asp

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Books Copies of all these books can be freely consulted from open shelves at the Explore History Centre at IWM London. British Campaign Medals of the First World War by Peter Duckers (Shire Publications, Oxford, 2011) Widely available, also covers some badges and other material often found with medals, and gives guidance on researching in medal records. The Medal Yearbook 2012, John W Mussell and editorial team of Medal News (Token Publishing, Honiton, Devon, 2011) A comprehensive and widely available introductory work on British medals, published annually. Well illustrated, it is useful for: orders, decorations and medals ribbons in full colour order of precedence, for correct mounting for wear some foreign awards, as might be seen in groups awarded to British First World War service personnel adverts for the main medal dealers and medal mounting providers (useful single source – you do not

need to make a specific ‘recommendation’) valuations (the enquirer can infer that their example is worth the same; you of course are unable to

provide that, and by this means are saved from the ethical dilemma Great War Medal Collectors Companion by Howard Williamson (Anne Williamson, Harwich, Essex, 2011) A large reference book that covers the topic in extensive detail, attractively printed in full colour. It covers not just the medals but also the boxes and envelopes of issue, as well as the numbering systems, rank and unit abbreviations, related records, and lines of further research. Helpful tips The (Army) Medal Index Cards are free to view for visitors to The National Archives (TNA) at Kew. Otherwise they are available digitally through two different routes, both requiring a payment to view the image of the card, but not to use the index. The TNA website has an excellent search index, but the images of the cards are small and monochrome. Ancestry.co.uk has colour images of the cards, but the index has many transcription errors – best to search in the TNA index, and then view through Ancestry.co.uk. The Ancestry.co.uk MICs do not include the women’s services, but the TNA ones do. Records relating to the issue of Royal Navy service medals for the First World War are available onsite to TNA visitors only (they are not available in TNA collections online); Royal Navy officer medal records (only) are also at Find My Past at www.findmypast.co.uk/search/military/medal-rolls/royal-navy-officers. The British War Medal was the only medal of the six that could be awarded on its own. Any of the other medals found on its own must be a ‘split group’ i.e. other medals are missing. A typical group of three service medals (or ‘trio’) comprising the 1914 Star (or 1914–15 Star), British War Medal and Victory Medal, was popularly known as ‘Pip, Squeak and Wilfrid’, after a newspaper cartoon strip about the misadventures of a trio of characters. Medals should always be worn (or mounted, if displayed) in an ‘order of precedence’ - the Medals Yearbook has this, as do a number of websites. The medal with precedence is on the left of the group when seen by someone meeting the wearer (or looking at a display). The First World War campaign medals have this order of precedence (although no more than four could be awarded to one person):

http://www.ancestry.co.uk/http://www.ancestry.co.uk/http://www.ancestry.co.uk/http://www.findmypast.co.uk/search/military/medal-rolls/royal-navy-officers

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1914 Star/1914–15 Star British War Medal Mercantile Marine War Medal Victory Medal Territorial Force War Medal The British War Medal is silver, quite a soft medal; it often shows ‘contact marks’ if it has rubbed alongside other medals. Marks to the right of King George V’s head indicate that a Victory Medal was probably also awarded; marks to the left that probably either a 1914 or 1914–15 star was awarded. The British War Medal weighs an ounce; if it alone is missing from a group of medals, it might indicate that it was once pawned or sold for its scrap silver value, and melted down. Over 141,000 men and women from Britain and the Empire were Mentioned in Dispatches during the First World War, for service or bravery. Over 120,000 received the Military Medal for bravery, and over 28,000 the Order of the British Empire (usually for service, including civilians). With these award numbers it may be worth checking, even if there is now no family memory – London Gazette online provides free searching of the publication where such awards are usually announced, or ‘gazetted’ at www.london-gazette.co.uk/search. The addition of a Second World War Defence Medal (easily identified – it carries the words ‘The Defence Medal’) indicates that the by then ‘old soldier’ served again, probably with Air Raid Precautions/Civil Defence, or the Home Guard. Officers had to apply for their First World War service medals; some will not have done so, so it’s not always true that families have ‘lost’ medals. Likewise, while ‘other ranks’ were sent their medals without asking, they were sent to their last known address – many proved undeliverable, and so were returned; the Medal Index Card records when this happened.

http://www.london-gazette.co.uk/http://www.london-gazette.co.uk/search

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2. Next of Kin Memorial Plaque, Scroll and King’s Message The immediate next of kin of all who died serving with the British and Empire forces in the First World War were eligible to receive a bronze plaque and paper scroll, both named to the casualty. With nearly a million dead for the British Army alone, the plaques are today still commonly found; the fragile scrolls survive less often. Both were typically either framed, or put away in drawers; some plaques were mounted on church walls or added to memorials. The design of the plaque was the result of a competition, held while the war still raged, although manufacture did not start until 1919. The name was cast in raised relief on each plaque, achieved by a labour-intensive process not fully known today. On the printed scroll, the rank, name and unit were written in calligraphy by hand. Plaque and scroll were separately mailed, typically in 1919 and 1920. A ‘King’s Message’ was enclosed with both, containing a facsimile signature of the King. Examples from IWM’s collection Plaque, scroll and bestowal slip to RAF casualty, scroll with blue ink – EPH 2223 Plaque with female wording ‘she died for freedom and honour’ to Winifred Stanley Coates VAD – EPH 4139

http://www.iwm.org.uk/collections/item/object/30082124http://www.iwm.org.uk/collections/item/object/30083674

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Website sources The Great War Memorial Plaque www.northeastmedals.co.uk/britishguide/WW1memorialdeathplaque.htm Website maintained by a medal dealer; illustrates the features of the plaques, and the mailing envelope The Great War 1914–1918 www.greatwar.co.uk/memorials/memorial-plaque.htm A more detailed account of the plaques – their design, manufacture and distribution. Books Copies of all these books can be freely consulted from open shelves at the Explore History Centre at IWM London. British Campaign Medals of the First World War by Peter Duckers (Shire Publications, Oxford, 2011) Includes section on the Memorial Plaque and Scroll, p24–26 Great War Medal Collectors Companion by Howard Williamson (Anne Williamson, Harwich, Essex, 2011) Detailed illustrated section on both Plaque and Scroll, p134–144 Articles The Dead Man's Penny: A short history of the Next of Kin Memorial Plaque by Philip Dutton, The Medal, issue no.29, autumn 1996, p62–71 (earlier version in Imperial War Museum Review, no.3, 1988, p60–68, ISBN-10: 0901627461, ISSN 0951-3094) Helpful tips The Memorial Plaque was popularly known as the Death Plaque, Dead Man’s Penny, or Widow’s Penny. Some of those recorded by plaques and scrolls were not eligible for service medals – for instance, those who did not serve overseas but who died in service through accident or illness. Deaths in the period 1919–1921 (possibly later) could still lead to the presentation of a plaque, if either still in service (and even from natural causes), or the death was accepted as war-related. It is not known how many plaques and scrolls were issued. Issue is not indicated on the Medal Index Card, and they were made and distributed as an entirely separate process. Issue of the Plaque and Scroll is always confirmed in Australian service papers. It is thought that many British and Empire war dead had no plaques and scrolls issued, due to the inability by 1919–20 to trace addresses for the eligible next of kin – a result of the high incidence of short-term rented addresses, re-marriage, and that, if they died unmarried with parents dead, there might be no dependants claiming a pension.

http://www.northeastmedals.co.uk/britishguide/WW1memorialdeathplaque.htmhttp://www.greatwar.co.uk/memorials/memorial-plaque.htm

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The surviving service papers for British servicemen sometimes contain form W.5080, sent in 1919 to clarify the nearest eligible person to receive the Plaque and Scroll. These forms can be an excellent source for family historians, as they asked respondents to report on all living relatives of the casualty, by name and status. An example of form W.5080 can be found at on the National Archives website. The Plaque has a diameter of 4½ inches, approximately 11cms. A miniature version (approximately 2 inches/5cm diameter) is also found today – these seem to be of private manufacture, and were not a commercial success; they are usually found in a pristine unnamed state, suggesting unsold stock from a warehouse. Presumably the idea was that with only one official plaque made for each casualty, other family members might want to buy and engrave a version.

http://www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/battles/ancestors/popup/armypop_trans.htm

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3. Silver War Badge and King’s Certificate on Discharge The Silver War Badge was awarded to most servicemen and women who were discharged from military service during the First World War, whether or not they had served overseas. Expiry of a normal term of engagement did not count and the most common reason for award of the badge was King’s Regulations Paragraph 392 (xvi), meaning they had been released on account of being permanently physically unfit. This was as often a result of sickness, disease or uncovered physical weakness, as war wounds. A main purpose of the badge was to prevent men not in uniform and without apparent disability being thought shirkers – it was evidence of having presented for military service, if not necessarily serving for long. Each badge was numbered, and the corresponding rolls survive at The National Archives (TNA), meaning each badge can be traced to an individual. First issues were made in 1916, when it was also retrospectively awarded to those already discharged since August 1914. Soldiers discharged during the war on account of disabilities contracted following service overseas in a theatre of operations could also receive a King’s Certificate - an ornate printed scroll in which their number, names and unit were handwritten in a calligraphic script. The wording was ‘[…Number, rank, name, unit…] Served with honour and was disabled in the Great War. Honourably discharged on...’ There was a facsimile signature of King George V. There were different designs for the Army, Navy and Air Force, and for Imperial troops. Examples from IWM’s collection Left to right Silver War Badge – INS 7364 King’s Certificate to P T Richardson – Documents 013439 (part of)


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Website sources The Long, Long Trail http://www.1914-1918.net/grandad/swb.htm This wide-ranging website has a useful introduction to the Silver War Badge, including a full expansion of the King’s Regulation paragraphs that can highlight the precise reason for discharge. Ancestry http://search.ancestry.co.uk/search/db.aspx?dbid=2456 A link to the website page of Ancestry.co.uk where the Silver War Badge records, available online to their subscribers, are described. Only officer’s records are available online through the TNA website. Books Copies of all these books can be freely consulted from open shelves at the Explore History Centre at IWM London. Great War Medal Collectors Companion by Howard Williamson (Anne Williamson, Harwich, Essex, 2011) Detailed illustrated section on Silver War Badges p145–160 and King’s Certificates on Discharge p531–540 Helpful tips Entitlement to the Silver War Badge did not necessarily entitle a man to the award of a King’s Certificate, but those awarded a Certificate would have been entitled to the Badge. The Silver War Badge was initially called simply the ‘War Badge’; it has also been popularly but wrongly known as the ’Silver Wound Badge’, ‘Services Rendered Badge’, ‘Discharged Soldiers Badge’, or ‘King’s Silver Badge’. A similar but smaller lapel badge given to discharged servicemen in the Second World War was officially styled ‘The King’s Badge’ – this title is also sometimes given to the SWB, but it is incorrect. The Silver War Badge Roll generally gives the date of enlistment, and why the discharge was granted – usually King’s Regulations (KR) Para 392(xvi), meaning the soldier had been released on account of being permanently physically unfit (it may then state if that is through wounds, disease or other causes). The Silver War Badge Roll usually provides details (especially for other ranks) of a specific unit served in – such as an infantry battalion, artillery battery, engineer field company, or service corps workshop - information that may not be in other sources and which can lead on to specific War Diaries at TNA, under the reference WO 95. However, this can mislead – many wounded men were posted to home service and disposal units immediately prior to discharge, and it is these units that the roll sometimes shows, not the one with which the main service was given. For those soldiers whose service papers were destroyed in 1940 (60% of the total), and for whom there was no eligibility for a medal (i.e. they did not serve overseas), the Silver War Badge Roll may be the only official document where their military service is now recorded.

http://www.1914-1918.net/grandad/swb.htmhttp://search.ancestry.co.uk/search/db.aspx?dbid=2456

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4. Army Demobilisation Papers

Soldiers demobilised after service in the First World War were provided with a series of standard papers, designed to achieve several things: An orderly departure from the army, with all pay, issued kit and allowances settled Provide an Identity Certificate (civilians already had a card) Provide a basic reference to help them find employment, including mention of any gallantry awards

and skills/trades held previously or learnt in the service Establish domestic contact details for the ex-serviceman, in case he was required to ‘re-join’ in ‘case of

emergency’. The papers were issued in a folder, to keep them together. These papers are often found amongst family documents today. The four main ones were: Soldier’s Demobilisation Account (Army Form W.5065) Protection Certificate and Certificate of Identity (Army Form Z.11) Certificate of Employment during the War (Army Form Z.18) Certificate of Discharge/Transfer to Reserve/Disembodiment/Demobilisation (Army Form Z.21) Demobilisation was not usually accompanied by a complete discharge. An obligation for re-call remained, with many soldiers transferred to a reserve (usually ‘Class Z’). Until the signing of the Treaty of Versailles in June 1919 there was only an armistice, not a peace agreement (and certainly not a surrender – German forces had returned within their national frontiers, but had not been disarmed). There was always a slight chance of resistance. The War Office had not wanted to release men until the Peace Treaty was signed, but such was the unrest of men anxious to return to civilian employment (together with a shortage in key industries needed for economic recovery, especially coal-mining) that release in batches began as early as January 1919. Examples from IWM’s collection Left to right Group of Demobilisation papers for Gunner H C King, Royal Garrison Artillery, including Soldier’s Demobilisation Account (Army Form W.5065); Protection Certificate and Certificate of Identity (Army Form Z.11); Certificate of Employment during the War (Army Form Z.18); and Certificate of Discharge/Transfer to Reserve/Disembodiment/Demobilisation (Army Form Z.21) – Documents .9603

http://www.iwm.org.uk/collections/item/object/1030009420

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Website sources The Long, Long Trail www.1914-1918.net/demobilisation.htm General introduction – illustrates the main forms and explains the process. Books Copies of all these books can be freely consulted from open shelves at the Explore History Centre at IWM London. The British Soldier of the First World War by Peter Doyle (Shire Publications, Oxford, 2010) Contains chapter on demobilisation. Tommy’s War – British Military Memorabilia 1914–1918 by Peter Doyle (The Crowood Press Ltd, Marlborough, Wiltshire, 2008) Illustrates the papers and describes the process in Chapter 6 – Aftermath. Helpful tips The folder housing the documents has an Army Form ‘Z’ number of its own, and carries the self-explanatory label, in gothic typeface: ‘Cover for Certificates and Other Documents of a Soldier on Demobilisation, Transfer to the Reserve, or Discharge’. The Certificate on Demobilisation shows the medical category on demobilization e.g. A1, C2 etc. This is often lower than that shown on attestation papers when they joined, reflecting the debilitating effects of war service. For detail on the medical classifications as they were in 1914, visit www.epsomandewellhistoryexplorer.org.uk/MedicalCategories.html More detailed medical categories had evolved by the Second World War – the 1914 scales are focussed purely on physical attributes and ability, whereas later ones also considered intellectual and social capability and capacity. This allowed for early direction towards appropriate roles and training. Not all soldiers wanted to leave the Forces, or quickly realised they could not return to their former job. It may not be remembered now by a family, but some may have re-enlisted, if only for a short-time, opening up the opportunity for new records. Visit www.1914-1918.net/reenlistment.html The paperwork for demobilising officers was different, as they had to resign a King’s Commission. They had also bought much of their own kit and equipment, albeit with a government grant, so settling accounts was more involved.

http://www.1914-1918.net/demobilisation.htmhttp://www.epsomandewellhistoryexplorer.org.uk/MedicalCategories.htmlhttp://www.1914-1918.net/reenlistment.html

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5. Uniform Badges and Portrait Photographs Identifying a First World War military badge once worn on cap, collar, shoulder, arm, or cuff is a relatively straightforward task if you can hold the badge in your hand, or see it clearly in a portrait photograph - the badge is simply compared against other pictured examples in standard reference books and websites. 98% of badges will be common and typical, and if the identification ties-in with what is already known or suspected, or is logical (e.g. a local county regiment), then the task is done. It follows that some of the basic reference sources can be perfectly adequate in most cases. The book on First World War army cap badges by Doyle and Foster is especially accessible – see below for details. Typically most First World War portrait photographs were taken soon after recruitment; for ‘other rank’ soldiers that means a new khaki service dress uniform, with the main features of a metal cap badge and shoulder titles, the latter only viewable from certain angles. Officers will additionally have collar badges. Examples from IWM’s collection Left to right A typical studio image – Infantry Officer’s head and shoulders portrait, with cap and collar badges of the Royal Fusiliers – HU96645 (Lieutenant A F Jolly) A typical private soldier; no badges visible, but a photographer’s name/town details may help – HU 96721 (Private A G Newman)


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Left to right Cap badge of the Royal Artillery – as worn by both the Royal Field Artillery (RFA) and Royal Garrison Artillery (RGA) – INS 16494 Cap badge of the Royal Engineers, with King George V cypher, so First World War period – INS 16860 Left to right An unusual First World War shoulder title, specific to one infantry battalion – the 18th (2nd City) Battalion, The King’s Liverpool Regiment – INS 7366 A typical brass shoulder title for a First World War county infantry regiment – it does not indicate the specific battalion of the Bedfordshire Regiment – INS 14701

http://www.iwm.org.uk/collections/item/object/30102383http://www.iwm.org.uk/collections/item/object/30102859http://www.iwm.org.uk/collections/item/object/30076581http://www.iwm.org.uk/collections/item/object/30069185%20%5BNeeds%20digital%20image%5D

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Website sources There is no single website which is an easy visual source for badges or uniforms. A Google search for ‘Identifying military uniforms from photographs’ produces a number of discussion groups, semi-commercial services, and book and article references. These websites are useful in the aspects outlined: British Military Badges www.britishmilitarybadges.co.uk/index.php A dealers’ website that usually illustrates all the main badges, in an easily accessible format that would allow quick comparison; does not give historical detail, nor allow for just a 1914–18 selection; no endorsement of this website as a place for trading should be inferred. The British & Commonwealth Military Badge Forum www.britishbadgeforum.com/british_army_badges/british_cavalry_1896_date.htm Illustrates cap badges of British cavalry regiments Discussion groups Great War Forum http://1914-1918.invisionzone.com/forums/index.php?act=idx The leading online discussion group has a thread for identifying badges and uniforms etc. British & Commonwealth Military Badge Forum www.britishbadgeforum.com/forums/ The place where most badges will be readily identified, by an informed membership. Books Copies of all these books can be freely consulted from open shelves at the Explore History Centre at IWM London. From Scarlet to Khaki – Understanding the Twentieth Century British Army Uniforms in Your Family Album by Jon Mills (Wardens Publishing, Orpington, Bromley, 2005) A booklet full of information on dating uniforms, including within the years 1914–18; also covers rank badges. British Army Cap Badges of the First World War by Peter Doyle and Chris Foster (Shire Publications, Oxford, 2010) Illustrated with photographs of actual badges, in full colour, plus some notes on how they were worn, and other badges. The British Soldier of the First World War by Peter Doyle (Shire Publications, Oxford, 2008) Introduces the basics on badges and equipment, plus much else, for the mainstream British Army.

http://www.britishmilitarybadges.co.uk/index.phphttp://www.britishbadgeforum.com/british_army_badges/british_cavalry_1896_date.htmhttp://1914-1918.invisionzone.com/forums/index.php?act=idxhttp://www.britishbadgeforum.com/forums/

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Women in the First World War by Neil Storey and Molly Housego (Shire Publications, Oxford, 2010) Includes badges and uniforms for all of the Women’s services. Tommy’s War – British Military Memorabilia 1914–1918 by Peter Doyle (The Crowood Press Ltd, Marlborough, Wiltshire, 2008) A wide-ranging book, more detailed than the Shire Publication by the same author. Brassey’s History of Uniforms: World War One British Army by Stephen Bull (Brassey’s, London, 1998) A detailed source for uniforms, sadly not in print; a companion volume by the same author covers German Army Uniforms. Uniforms & Equipment of the British Army in World War I by Stephen Chambers (Schiffer Military History, Atglen, Pennsylvania, 2005) Large book, uses hundreds of portrait and other photographs as the primary source; good for identifying if equipment carried is unusual, and might indicate a specialist e.g. tank crew, machine gunner, etc. Collecting Metal Shoulder Titles by Ray Westlake (Leo Cooper, London, 1997) Illustrated book showing most known examples; shoulder titles can sometimes pinpoint a specific unit, such as a battalion, battery or field ambulance History of the British Army Infantry Collar Badge by Colin Churchill (Naval and Military Press, Uckfield, East Sussex, 2002) A comprehensive guide to this piece of insignia that is often (and confusingly) different to the cap badge. Helpful tips As you give guidance on routes by which a uniform might be identified, do question the enquirer; it is a common assumption that a photograph found among family papers must be of a relative, but it need not be so – many servicemen swapped photographs with friends i.e. the pictures they actually carried were not of themselves! Generally the most informative images of British servicemen are studio portraits taken late in the war (and post-war, including in Germany with the British Army of the Rhine), where in addition to the technical clarity of studio lighting there had also evolved more devices to give distinguishing features on uniforms – such as cloth divisional battle patches and long service chevrons (as well as ribbons signifying medals for gallantry, long service and campaign service). Equipment shown with the uniform can be revealing – e.g. are gaiters and spurs worn, indicating horse-riding (so perhaps a cavalry, ambulance, artillery or transport unit). Often a photographer will give their trade details somewhere on the photograph (front or back, printed, embossed, or even scratched by ‘reverse writing’ onto the negative). This can be surprisingly useful if also matched to a cap badge. For instance, a soldier with an East Lancashire Regiment cap badge in a portrait attributed to a Carnarvon studio very probably belonged to the 11th Battalion (Accrington Pals), as they were the only battalion of the regiment ever to be based there (in training in 1915). To see the various towns and camps within the UK where First World War infantry battalions were billeted and trained, use:

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British Regiments 1914–18 by Brigadier E A, James (Naval and Military Press London, new edition 2001) A very useful book, despite lacking an index by place name. If a First World War cap badge in a photograph proves illusive, consider that it may be to a unit of the Canadian Expeditionary Force. Many recent emigrants from Britain (especially Scotland) enlisted in the CEF in 1914 – some CEF battalions even wore kilts. This website usefully illustrates many CEF badges www.britishbadgeforum.com/canadian_expeditionary_force/cef_index.htm Collar badges may be miniature versions of the cap badge, but often they are a different design altogether. Officers can have completely different cap badges to other ranks in a few units e.g. Lincolnshire Regiment.

http://www.britishbadgeforum.com/canadian_expeditionary_force/cef_index.htm

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6. ‘On War Service’ Badges A great many badges were worn on civilian clothing in Britain during the First World War. Apart from unofficial Regimental Brooches (qv), there were badges to indicate that the wearer was engaged on important war-work. Many were produced privately by the employing companies, others were national and official. The need for most of them ended after 1916, when conscription was introduced and suspicion abated that any young man not in uniform was a ‘shirker’ (with that the white feather campaign also faded). That said, some badges continued to be worn throughout the war, especially by female shift workers, for whom the badge could give priority boarding and fare concessions on public transport, as well as indicating that there was nothing disreputable about these ladies travelling alone at night. The On War Service Badge 1914 was issued by the Admiralty to ‘workmen whose services are indispensable for rapid completion of HM ships and armaments.’ The OWS badge for 1915 was produced by the Ministry of Munitions, who also produced a badge for ‘War Munitions Volunteers’. The triangular 1916 badge was worn largely by women munitions workers. Examples from IWM’s collection Left to right On War Service 1914 – INS 7768 On War Service 1915 – INS 7767 On War Service 1916 – INS 7812 Left to right War Munitions Volunteer – INS 7808 Railway Service Midland Railway – INS 7811

http://www.iwm.org.uk/collections/item/object/30076983http://www.iwm.org.uk/collections/item/object/30076982http://www.iwm.org.uk/collections/item/object/30077027http://www.iwm.org.uk/collections/item/object/30077023http://www.iwm.org.uk/collections/item/object/30077026

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Website sources ‘On War Service’ Badges 1914–1919 the official issues www.btinternet.com/~prosearch/OWS.html A private researcher’s webpage that gives detail on the official ‘On War Service’ badges. Sally Bosley’s Badge Shop www.sallysbadges.com/shop.php?c=37 Online dealers’ website, dedicated page – hundreds of badges from many private companies illustrated, so a good visual source. No specific recommendation of the dealer, or the valuations given, is to be inferred. Books Copies of all these books can be freely consulted from open shelves at the Explore History Centre at IWM London. Great War Medal Collectors Companion by Howard Williamson (Anne Williamson, Harwich, Essex, 2011) Includes details on both official and unofficial OWS badges on p542–556. Helpful tips The type of fastening can indicate if the intended wearer was male or female – certainly a buttonhole fitting was exclusively for male wearing.

http://www.btinternet.com/~prosearch/OWS.htmlhttp://www.sallysbadges.com/shop.php?c=37

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7. Regimental Brooches and Lucky Charms During the First World War wives, sisters and girlfriends commonly wore pin-brooches depicting miniature badges of units in which male loved ones were serving. Usually these were commercially manufactured, bought and presented by the serviceman as they left home. Post-war, many veterans themselves wore miniature pin-badges of their former regiments, ships or arm of service. There were eventually hundreds of commercial designs, typically smaller versions of the cap (or ships) badge, in combinations of brass, silver, gold, enamel and mother of pearl, sometimes the pin mounts incorporating horseshoes, anchors, crossed swords or rifles. Good luck charms and talismans were also immensely popular, often involving variations on ‘touch wud’ and ‘fums up’, or religious symbols. Soldiers also kept fragments of bullet and shell – sometimes as hospital souvenirs. Pin-back versions of unit badges are still manufactured today. Examples from IWM’s collection Left to right Royal Artillery brooch – EPH 5041 Sailor’s amber charm – EPH 4890 Website sources Regimental brooches www.regimentalbrooches.com Online dealers’ website, linked to Bosley’s auctioneers – hundreds of First World War and more recent badges illustrated, so a good visual source. No specific recommendation of the dealer, or of the valuations given, is to be inferred. British Military Badges www.britishmilitarybadges.co.uk/index.php A dealers’ website that illustrates regimental brooches in an easily accessible format that would allow quick comparison; does not give historical detail, nor allow for just a 1914–18 selection; no endorsement of this website other than as a visual source should be inferred. British Commonwealth & Military Badge Forum www.britishbadgeforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=376 Contains a relevant discussion thread.

http://www.iwm.org.uk/collections/item/object/30084966http://www.iwm.org.uk/collections/item/object/30084812http://www.regimentalbrooches.com/http://www.britishmilitarybadges.co.uk/index.phphttp://www.britishbadgeforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=376

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Books Copies of all these books can be freely consulted from open shelves at the Explore History Centre at IWM London. Military Sweetheart Jewellery: A Guide for Collectors (3 parts) by Pamela Caunt (Arbras, London, Part I, 1994, Part II, 1998, Part III, 2001) The main source – three small paperbacks that cumulatively illustrate almost every design, with historical notes; out of print but can often be sourced online through second hand books sites and eBay. Military “Sweetheart” Brooches by Kenneth Jarmin (K W Jarmin, Boxford, Suffolk, 1981) Out of print, but may be sourced online through second hand books sites. The Collector and Researchers Guide to the Great War: Vol. 2: Small Arms, Munitions, Militaria by Howard Williamson (Anne Williamson, Harwich, Essex, 2003) Lists the types, and some of major manufacturers and their marks; p360–362. Military Collectables: An international directory of twentieth-century Militaria by Richard O’Neill, Joe Lyndhurst (Salamander Books Ltd, London, 1983 Illustrates regimental brooches, and much else besides. Helpful tips The phrase ‘sweetheart brooch’ is commonly used, but is misleading, as the wearing was typically much wider than that. Silver items will carry hallmarks that can be traced to a year – 1915 is the most common year for First World War brooches. Makers marks on silver can be traced through www.silvermakersmarks.co.uk/

http://www.silvermakersmarks.co.uk/

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8. Princess Mary Gift Fund 1914 Box and Contents A Princess Mary Gift Fund Box was a treasured possession of many veteran soldiers of the First World War, even when the original contents – usually cigarettes and rolling tobacco – had long been used. The embossed brass box was air-tight, and made a useful container for money, tobacco, papers and photographs, so was often carried through subsequent service. The gifts were devised in October 1914 and intended for distribution to all who were serving overseas or at sea, in time for Christmas 1914; afterwards, with the fund in surplus and many feeling they had been ‘left out’, distribution was extended more widely – to all who were serving, whether at home or abroad, and to prisoners of war and the next of kin of 1914 casualties. As a result some had a considerable wait to receive their boxes, with difficulties distributing them, and with sourcing both the brass and the contents during the ongoing war. Distribution dragged on even beyond the Armistice in 1918. The final number of boxes produced was over 2.6 million. It surprises many today to learn that there was concern in 1914 for non-smokers, for whom versions including alternatives such as writing paper or sweets were assembled (the gift not always fitting inside the box, or even being delivered with it). A version with spices was offered to Indian troops. The earliest presentations included a small photograph of Princess Mary (third child and only daughter of King George V and Queen Mary), and a small card (originally a Christmas and New Year Card, later changed to a New Year card). Some late issues just had the box containing a card and a pencil. Examples from IWM’s collection Left to right Princess Mary Gift Fund Box with tobacco – EPH 9380 Princess Mary Gift Fund Box and contents – EPH 1992


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Left to right Princess Mary Gift Fund Box with card and pencil – EPH 2018 Princess Mary Gift Fund writing stationery – EPH 2073 Above Princess Mary Gift Fund pipe – EPH 9386 Website sources Kinnethmont Local History www.kinnethmont.co.uk/1914-1918_files/xmas-box-1914.htm Short account, well-illustrated. King’s Own Royal Regiment Museum www.kingsownmuseum.plus.com/princessmarygifts.htm A regimental museum website, illustrates the various elements. Books Copies of all these books can be freely consulted from open shelves at the Explore History Centre at IWM London. Tommy’s War: British Military Memorabilia, 1914-1918 by Peter Doyle (The Crowood Press Ltd, Marlborough, Wiltshire, 2008) Illustrations, in a wide-ranging book.

http://www.iwm.org.uk/collections/item/object/30081989http://www.iwm.org.uk/collections/item/object/30082037http://www.iwm.org.uk/collections/item/object/30089145http://www.kinnethmont.co.uk/1914-1918_files/xmas-box-1914.htmhttp://www.kingsownmuseum.plus.com/princessmarygifts.htm

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Great War Medal Collectors Companion by Howard Williamson (Anne Williamson, Harwich, Essex, 2011) Includes details and illustrations on p564–570. Articles A gift for Christmas: the story of Princess Mary’s Gift Fund, 1914 by Diana Condell in IWM Review (No. 4 – 1989) p69–78. Helpful tips The only common element in the many permutations of the ‘Christmas Gift’ was the inclusion of the ‘Box’. The lacquered bright brass used to make the boxes varied considerably in colour, thickness and quality. Supplies of 45 tons of brass strip, destined to make more boxes, was lost in May 1915 when RMS Lusitania was sunk off Ireland on passage from the USA. The records of the Gift Fund are held by IWM, as part of its Women’s Work Collection. Some items were distributed separately from the boxes – such as the pipes, of which there were several designs. The lighters were made by Royal Jewellers Aspreys. The ‘pencil bullet’ was not fashioned out of real bullet parts – it was simply a pencil with a rounded white metal end that looked like an unfired round when stored inside a brass tube resembling a cartridge case. Modern reproductions are made of the boxes, though not to the same standard as the originals – typically the brass plate is thinner, and they are not airtight.

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9. Trench Art ‘Trench art’ is a misleading term given today to a wide variety of decorative items, sometimes also functional, produced during or soon after the First World War (though the term is also applied to products of both earlier and more recent wars). They were made in all the countries engaging in combat. Ashtrays, matchbox holders, letter knives, model tanks and planes are typically found. Often they re-purpose lead bullets, brass recovered from spent charge cases, and copper from shell driving bands, although carved wooden and bone pieces, and embroideries are also seen. However, few examples were fashioned literally in the trenches. Nor were all made by soldiers. It is probable that only the very smallest bone and wooden objects were worked in the front line. A greater source was workshop troops behind the lines. They had the materials, machinery, skill and occasional spare time, and money could be made selling souvenirs to soldiers heading home. In France and Belgium work to make souvenirs was also given to civilians displaced by the war. Trench art was also made ‘at home’ during the war by those awaiting call-up; also by wounded and convalescing men, for whom handicrafts involving wood, metal and embroidery formed part of their rehabilitation. And many no doubt personalised souvenirs made by others by adding inscriptions. Examples from IWM’s collection Trench art model plane – EPH 8110


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Left to right Trench art jug – EPH 3497 Trench art decorated charge case – EPH 3296 Left to right Trench art paperknife – EPH 1979 Trench art bullet crucifix – EPH 1915 Website sources Trench Art – Symbols and Memories of the Great War and Beyond www.hellfire-corner.demon.co.uk/saunders.htm General introduction by Dr Nick Saunders, a leading author on the subject – see below. Wikipedia http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trench_art Wikipedia entry giving a good overview of the subject.

http://www.iwm.org.uk/collections/item/object/30083043http://www.iwm.org.uk/collections/item/object/30082862http://www.iwm.org.uk/collections/item/object/30081956http://www.iwm.org.uk/collections/item/object/30081931http://www.hellfire-corner.demon.co.uk/saunders.htmhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trench_art

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Books Copies of all these books can be freely consulted from open shelves at the Explore History Centre at IWM London. Trench Art: A Brief History and Guide, 1914–1939 by Dr Nicholas Saunders (Pen and Sword Military, Barnsley, 2nd revised edition, 2011) The main easily-found source, combines both historical introduction and a collectables guide; includes a list of other relevant websites. Trench Art: An Illustrated History by Jane Kimball (Silverpenny Press, Davis, California, 2004) Large encyclopaedic volume – the only one. Tommy’s War: British Military Memorabilia, 1914–1918 by Peter Doyle (The Crowood Press Ltd, Marlborough, Wiltshire, 2008) Illustrated examples, in a wide-ranging book. Military Collectables: An international directory of twentieth-century militaria by Richard O’Neill Joe Lyndhurst (Salamander Books Ltd, London, 1983) Illustrates trench art, and much else besides. The Collector and Researchers Guide to the Great War, Vol. 2: Small Arms, Munitions, Militaria by Howard Williamson (Anne Williamson, Harwich, Essex, 2003) Contains details on the markings typically stamped on fuse heads, shell charge cases, bullet cases and grenades, from UK, France and Germany, often incorporated into ‘trench art’; p1–94. Helpful tips It is tempting to think that an ancestor made a piece of trench art held by a family, but that may not be the case – there was a large manufacturing trade during and after the war. So it may have been bought – by the soldier, or by a relative on a subsequent battlefield visit. One source of trench art often overlooked was the major department stores. In the immediate post-war period they offered to turn war souvenirs such as shell fuze heads – often brought back by soldiers – into wooden-based paperweights. And if ex-soldiers had no souvenir, they could be provided. This source can be the only explanation for the widespread examples of bulkier trench art – such as dinner gongs and poker stands made from shell charge cases. These would have fitted in no kitbag. Trench art continues to be made today. Across the world, and especially in Africa and the Middle East, civilians and former combatants re-fashion munitions and other war detritus to meet a tourist and export market. And in Europe (notably in France and Belgium), original First World War shell casings are still being re-worked to meet a growing trade.

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10. Crested China Small hollow off-white china ornaments, decorated with civic arms and other crests, were popular souvenirs in the years immediately before the First World War, especially at seaside resorts. They were largely made in the Potteries around Stoke-on-Trent, by companies such as Arcadian, Carlton, Grafton, Savoy, Shelley, Swan, Willow Art, and (the best quality) W H Goss. The peacetime range included figurines, everyday objects, local museum antiquities, or functional items (e.g. ring trees, stamp boxes, pin trays). With the coming of war, new designs were registered (e.g. shells, grenades and mines, ships, aeroplanes, ambulances, and military headdress – eventually also tanks). The range of military subjects was large, with the accuracy of depiction less important than the topicality of the model or its label. For years they were disregarded – today, collectors rate undamaged pieces highly, especially those known to have had limited production runs, be prone to damage, or where the crest links well to the subject. Examples from IWM’s collection Crested china dugout – EPH 3354


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Left to right Crested china tank – EPH 3351 Crested china Nurse Cavell statue – EPH 4201 Website sources There is no single web source on military souvenir china but there is an excellent book (see first book listed below) The Crested China Company www.thecrestedchinacompany.com/ Webpage of a specialist dealer for collectors, with many illustrated examples – choose ‘latest catalogue’ and scroll down to ‘military china’; no specific recommendation of the dealer, or of the valuations given, is to be inferred. Books Copies of all these books can be freely consulted from open shelves at the Explore History Centre at IWM London. Take Me Back to Dear Old Blighty: the First World War Through the Eyes of the Heraldic China Manufacturers by Robert Southall (Milestone Publications, Horndean, Hampshire, 1982) A well-illustrated source book, also outlines the real events behind the production of some models e.g. airships, tanks; out of print but available second-hand. Goss and Souvenir Heraldic China by Lynda Pine (Shire Publications, Oxford, 2005) A general introduction. The Collector and Researchers Guide to the Great War, Vol. II: Small Arms, Munitions, Militaria by Howard Williamson (Anne Williamson, Harwich, Essex, 2003) Chapter 10 by Derek Pheasant is ‘Crested China of the Great War’ p311–318; illustrated; also shows the main factory marks.

http://www.iwm.org.uk/collections/item/object/30082913http://www.iwm.org.uk/collections/item/object/30083736http://www.thecrestedchinacompany.com/

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Helpful tips Crested china was typically bought on holidays or day-trips to the places on the crest, and carefully carried home. During the First World War holidays continued to be possible at most coastal resorts, despite defensive works on (in particular) the East and South coasts. Some ‘crests’ depicted on this china have been shown to be ‘imagined’ or unofficial designs. Also known as ‘Heraldic China’ or ‘Heraldic Souvenir Ware’.

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IWM is leading the First World War Centenary Partnership, a network of local, regional, national and international cultural and educational organisations. Together, we will present a vibrant global programme of cultural events and activities, and digital platforms, which will enable millions of people across the world to discover more about life in the First World War. This guide was produced as a free resource for members of the First World War Centenary Partnership, available to download from 1914.org/members. For more information about the partnership please email [email protected]. All images are © IWM unless otherwise stated. Disclaimer: IWM is not responsible for the content of the external sites contained within this guide. Their inclusion in this guide does not constitute an endorsement from IWM.

http://www.1914.org/membersmailto:[email protected]

1. British Service MedalsBooksHelpful tips2. Next of Kin Memorial Plaque, Scroll and King’s Message

Examples from IWM’s collectionWebsite sourcesBooksArticlesHelpful tips3. Silver War Badge and King’s Certificate on Discharge

Examples from IWM’s collectionWebsite sourcesBooksHelpful tips4. Army Demobilisation Papers

Examples from IWM’s collectionWebsite sourcesBooksHelpful tipsExamples from IWM’s collectionDiscussion groupsBooksHelpful tipsExamples from IWM’s collectionWebsite sourcesBooksHelpful tipsExamples from IWM’s collectionWebsite sourcesBooksHelpful tipsExamples from IWM’s collectionWebsite sourcesBooksArticlesHelpful tipsExamples from IWM’s collectionBooksHelpful tipsExamples from IWM’s collectionWebsite sourcesBooksHelpful tips