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Food for billeted soldiers, WW1
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Food for billeted soldiers, WW1
A page from The Sketch showing what householders who had soldiers billeted with them were expected to provide in terms of meals for 3s. 4d halfpenny. Date: 1914
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Media ID 14148734
© Illustrated London News Ltd/Mary Evans
Billet Billeted Billeting Billets Fare Feeding Householders Meal Meals Rations Tommies Tommy
EDITORS COMMENTS
This evocative image from The Sketch, dated 1914, offers a glimpse into the expectations placed upon householders during World War I who took in soldiers for billets, or temporary lodgings. The soldiers, often referred to as "Tommies," were providing invaluable service to the war effort by being closer to the front lines, but their daily sustenance was a significant concern. This page from The Sketch outlines the meals that householders were expected to provide for three shillings and fourpence halfpenny per soldier per week. The listed meals include a hearty breakfast of bacon, eggs, sausages, or porridge, followed by a substantial dinner of meat, potatoes, vegetables, and pudding. Supper was to consist of bread and cheese or cold meat, with a cup of tea or cocoa. The householders were also expected to provide soldiers with three pints of milk per week and a weekly ration of tobacco. The image serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by both soldiers and civilians during the war. The soldiers, who were away from their homes and families, relied on the kindness and generosity of householders to provide them with the nourishment they needed to carry on with their duties. Meanwhile, householders played a crucial role in supporting the war effort by providing a roof over the soldiers' heads and ensuring they were well-fed. This poignant snapshot of history highlights the interconnectedness of the home front and the front lines during World War I.
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