As the centenary of the outbreak of WWI approaches next year, Bearnes Hampton & Littlewood’s forthcoming Sporting & collectors sale of 18th September contains a number medals and militaria that are a timely reminder of the sacrifice and extreme conditions under which the conflict was fought.
A WWI hand drawn map of British and German trences circa 1916
Lot 230 (SC17/230) in the sale contains the service medals and personal effects of Capt G.H. Hawkes Intelligence Officer 2/4 Bn. Royal Berkshire Regiment. Included is a hand drawn map of the British and German trenches in 1916. Marked with compass bearings and illustrated with ruined building and trees, it is a unique first hand record of the situation faced by troops enduring the harsh conditions of trench warfare.
Original first hand documents are an important source of the historical record, the personal connection and experience of the individuals involved sometimes revealing more than official accounts. For collectors, such documents make this a unique group for their collection and will no doubt attract worldwide interest.
