Contalmaison Collection

Our Advance to Boiselle, by E Handley-Read, WW1
Our Advance to (La) Boiselle, July 1916, watercolour by Captain Edward Handley-Read, First World War. The cloud shows evidence of a gas bombardment. 1916

Indian troops stationed at Contalmaison during WWI
Indian soldiers sitting and reading newspapers near to Contalmaison, France, during the First World War. Date: 1917

The British storming Contalmaison. 1190 Private Leslie Loveland, 1St/5Th Battalion Royal Warwickshire Regiment, 143Rd Brigade, 25Th Division. Joined 21.11.15

Scottish troops at Contalmaison, France, WW1
Scottish troops at Contalmaison, France, during the First World War. Date: September 1916

Australian gunners returning from trenches, France, WW1
2nd Australian Division machine gunners returning from the trenches in northern France during the First World War. The ruined village of Contalmaison can be seen in the distance. Date: September 1916

Battery of 60 pounders in action, Contalmaison, France, WW1
A battery of 60 pounders in action at Contalmaison, northern France, during the Battle of Albert, First World War. Date: July 1916

Contalmaison, France
Contalmaison - Ecole Communale, opemed in 1883

Australian forces 1916
Australian reserve lines on the Contalmaison-Becourt Road

Contalmaison Chateau 1917
A contrast of war, the ruins of Contalmaison Chateau, Somme, with sign saying hotel for sale in France on the British front during World War I in 1917. It was never rebuilt

Royal Engineers 1917
Royal engineers passing across snow-covered ground in single file East of Contalmaison in France on the British front during World War I in February 1917

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"Remembering Contalmaison: A Battlefield of Bravery and Sacrifice" In the heart of France, amidst the chaos of World War I, Contalmaison stood as a testament to courage and resilience. As E Handley-Read vividly described in "Our Advance to Boiselle, " this small village witnessed countless moments that would forever be etched in history. Indian troops stationed at Contalmaison during WWI played an integral role in defending this strategic position. Their unwavering dedication and bravery were unparalleled, standing strong against enemy forces determined to seize control. The British storming Contalmaison showcased their relentless determination to secure victory. Scottish troops also left an indelible mark on this hallowed ground. With kilts swirling amidst the chaos, they fearlessly charged forward, fighting side by side with their comrades-in-arms. Their valorous actions will forever be remembered. Australian gunners returning from trenches exemplified the true spirit of mateship and camaraderie. These brave souls endured unimaginable hardships but never wavered in their duty to protect freedom's cause. Their return was a symbol of hope amidst the devastation. The thunderous roar of a battery of 60 pounders echoed through the fields surrounding Contalmaison as these powerful weapons unleashed their might upon the enemy lines. Each explosion marked another step towards victory for those who fought tirelessly day after day. Contalmaison itself bore witness to both triumphs and tragedies throughout its war-torn existence. From Australian forces arriving in 1916 ready for battle, to the haunting ruins Chateau in 1917 - each brick held stories untold yet felt deeply by all who walked among them. Let us not forget the Royal Engineers whose tireless efforts ensured vital infrastructure remained intact despite constant bombardment. Through sheer determination and ingenuity, they kept supply lines open and provided essential support to those on the front lines.