WILFRED NEVILL 1916 FOOTBALL POSTCARD - BALL KICKED INTO GERMAN TRENCHES

Original postcard showing one of the footballs that Captain Wilfred Nevill used to encourage his men in attacking the German lines on the first day of the Battle of the Somme. Nevill had purchased the balls in England while on leave in the belief that a football was a reassuringly familiar symbol and would help his men overcome their fears. They were kicked ahead of the advancing soldiers. Nevill himself died on that day (July 1st, 1916). It is believed that there were two balls used - one is now displayed at Dover Castle and the other one (the one pictured in this postcard) was seemingly lost in the fire at Clandon Park, Guildford, in 2015.

Postally unused. Light splash marks to front and one light vertical crease. A very rare and poignant postcard.

Date

1916

£100.00 (Code: 100451)

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