Collection

The novel Major Tom’s War is fictional, but only just.  It began its decade-long journey into print as a transcript of the author’s grandfather’s war diary, crammed with photographs, letters, postcards and posters he sent back to his future wife 1914 – 1918.

When completed later this year, the collection will display every individual item (over 400 in total) within the family archive digitally, plus some of the additional images and documentation Vee Walker has collected during her research trips to Bavay which relate to its mayor Gaston Derome.

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Denain occupation poster notifying civilians of the need for a permit

This Denain poster signed by the area commander notifies inhabitants of Denain of the need for passes or permits for movement after 10pm

31 July 1916 - 11 November 1918

Denain occupation poster notifying civilians of the need for a permit