Video: Poignant cards sent by soldiers from the front line

They were sent by soldiers on the frontline to their sweethearts back home.
By The Newsroom
Published 10th Feb 2015, 16:20 BST
Helen Thornton of York's Castle Museum with a card sent to a loved one from the front during World War 1Helen Thornton of York's Castle Museum with a card sent to a loved one from the front during World War 1
Helen Thornton of York's Castle Museum with a card sent to a loved one from the front during World War 1

The hand-made silk cards sent home by soldiers fighting in the First World War containing poignant messages of love have been revealed by York Museums Trust as Valentine’s Day approaches.

Soldiers sent their sweethearts romantic cards throughout the First World War, with many hand-embroidered by French and Belgian women. Each card is decorated with a sentimental message such as: “Forget Me Not” and “Longing to see You” and, on rare occasions, include a short message. One card, for example, simply reads: “Best love from somewhere in France xxxxx George.”

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Helen Thornton, documentation assistant (history) at York Museums Trust, said: “The cards are far more intricate and delicate than anything we find in the shops today.”

Helen Thornton of York's Castle Museum with a card sent to a loved one from the front during World War 1Helen Thornton of York's Castle Museum with a card sent to a loved one from the front during World War 1
Helen Thornton of York's Castle Museum with a card sent to a loved one from the front during World War 1

York Museums Trust has a collection of over 150 silk postcards from the First World War.

A hand picked selection of Sweetheart Cards will on display in the entrance of York Castle Museum until the end of February.

Related topics:SoldiersFrance