Sending Christmas greetings cards continues to be a popular tradition in the United Kingdom during the festive season, despite the advent of e-cards and social media. A tradition that is reflected within the military establishment and during times of war.
The following are just a small selection of Christmas cards held within the Bodmin Keep archive.
Merry Christmas Private
Christmas, 1917. With all good wishes for Xmas and good luck in the New Year from The Commandant, Matron and staff, V. A. D. Hospital, Exmouth.
The World War One Christmas greeting above was given to Private William Rowe, presumably whilst a casualty at V. A. D. Hospital, Exmouth. Somewhat plain, but likely received with appreciation.
Regimental Christmas Greetings
Between the wars, produced for the 4/5th Battalion DCLI, Christmas 1933. A very formal image showing members of the 4/5th Regimental Band.
The 4/5th was a Territorial Unit that formed the 4th Battalion and 5th Battalion DCLI during World War Two.
From Shorncliffe to Dunkirk
This Second World War Christmas greetings card is a curious one – where is the holly!
This item was produced for the 2nd Battalion Duke of Cornwall’s Light Infantry (DCLI) who survived the evacuation of Dunkirk and went on to have a very active war, including participating in bitter fighting in Italy.
Which likely explains the lack of festive imagery!?
Best Wishes for 1945
The images above shows the inner design of a Christmas greetings card from World War Two.
It is unclear who produced this card, though the Wessex Wyvern on the outside of the card (see below) leads one to believe that it is the work of the 43rd Wessex Division.
This card would have been available for members of the 5th Battalion DCLI who fought across Northwestern Europe after the Normandy landings.
By Christmas 1945, the war was over. Maybe that is why this card seems to include a little humour in the form of somewhat cartoonish drawings of soldiers, unlike the 2nd Battalion card.
Christmas Greetings from No1 Convalescent Depot France
At last we have holly!
This card from World War One is brighter than the others, with at least some signs of the festive season.
Written on the reverse, in very faint pencil, are the words ‘from Gilbert’.
As a patient in a Convalescent Depot, we can hope that Gilbert was recovering from his wounds or illness.
Archivist’s Thoughts
The cards are subdued and plain. Perhaps not to modern tastes, but like many items within the archive, they are a fascinating snapshot in time.
Not only of the conventions and social etiquette during these periods, but also reflecting lived experiences and highlighting that in some shape or form, Christmas and the festive season is recognised even in times of hardship and trauma.
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