Lanarkshire Philatelic Society

 

 

"World War 1" by Gary Cheyne

 

&

 

Third Reich" by Walter Titherleigh"

 

At the meeting on 23rd January, two members of the Lanarkshire Philatelic Society gave displays that proved to be of tremendous interest to all.

Gary Cheyne displayed ‘The First World War’ and began from Queen Victoria! Her family had all married into many of the European Monarchies – and family love did not always prevail across the borders. Here was much rivalry among the European powers and the assassination of the Archduke Franz Ferdinand and his wife, Sophie, at Sarajevo on 28th June 1914 threw Europe into War.

Many postcards and stamps depicted the various stages and events of the War – Austria’s ultimatum to Serbia; Germany declares war on Russia; Britain and France allies against Germany; the Battles of; Verdun; the Somme; Passchendale; Italy declares war on Germany; US troops in France; Field Marshal Haig orders "Backs to the Wall" in April 1918; Armistice signed in November, 1918.

Also displayed were postcards and labels of General Kitchener’s efforts to recruit more men – "Just arrived – another little soldier for Kitchener’s army. Half a million more wanted" (picture of a baby). Notices on the passing of the "Laws limiting pub opening hours" (in Britain). Postcards showing the Role of Horses in the War; Many postcards showing "The need for trenches" and showing the building of trenches, as well as giving an idea of what life was like in the trenches.

Occasionally the men were allowed away from the Front and the YMCA EF Canteen made them welcome. Gary ended his display with stamps and postcards acknowledging Acts of Bravery by various men.

 

After tea, Walter Tytherleigh with a great display of stamps, covers and postcards told the story of the development the "Third Reich". He began from the Opening Session of the New Reichstag in Potsdam in 1933 – and stamps of King Frederick II of Prussia – on whose tomb Hitler laid a wreath – were shown.

In 1934, stamps were issued depicting a German Eagle flying before a world illuminated by the rays of a swastika sun – symbolising German awakening under new leadership. In 1935 stamps recorded the joy of the restoration of Saar to Germany.

Official postcards and stamps for the 1936 Olympic Games showed the Eagle on the five Olympic Rings. There were many propaganda postcards available at this Event. Also many postmarks displaying the swastika.

In 1938, the 5th anniversary of the Third Reich – and stamps were issued showing a torchbearer, holding the oak leaves of victory, in front of Brandenburg – symbolising the leading of modern Germany into the light.

Postcards commemorated the Nuremburg Party Rally and in 1938 stamps and postcards celebrated Hitler’s 49th birthday. In 1939 Germany – the Third Reich - and Hitler – were at war with the world.

 

In giving the Vote of Thanks, George Jamieson thanked both men for their truly magnificent displays and commented on the hard work and research involved in preparing them for the Club.

Our next meeting in St Andrews Parish Church Hall is on Friday, 6th February, 2009 at 7:30pm when Frank Soutar FRPSL will display "Liechtenstein". 

Anyone with an interest in stamps, postal history, postcards etc will be very welcome to attend.