Item 7 - Handkerchief printed with a map of European war zones

1 object(s)

Donated to the GNM Archive in August 2019 having been discovered in a draw of the donor's late husband, who is assumed to have acquired it from his father, Isaiah Arstall (born 27 June 1886 in Farnworth, died 1 March 1970 in Farnworth, 10 miles NE of Manchester), who served in the 1/5 Loyal North Lancs regiment in WW1 with the service number 241273.

Handkerchief printed with a map of European war zones and flags and stamped 'with best wishes from Manchester Guardian readers.'

Between 1914 and 1918 the Manchester Guardian ran a Christmas gift fund for Lancashire and Cheshire soldiers serving in the first world war. Donations included 'comforts' such as socks, mittens, scarves, handkerchiefs, postcards and cigarettes. This handkerchief is thought to be one of thousands distributed to military personnel as part of the appeal.

The map which is featured on the handkerchief was originally published in the Manchester Guardian on 7 August 1914 and an advert for the handkerchief by 'Drapers & Outfitters' appeared in the newspaper on 8 December 1914.
Production place: Unknown
Materials: [Cotton]
Condition: Fair
Dimensions: 60cm x 48cm
Completeness: Complete

Creator: Unknown

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