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A trench periscope at Aintree, WW1
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A trench periscope at Aintree, WW1
Soldiers on leave from the front watch the Grand National at Aintree in a novel manner by using a trench periscope to look over the racecourse crowd. Date: 1915
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Media ID 14143309
© Illustrated London News Ltd/Mary Evans
Aintree Horseracing Leave Periscope Spectators Trench
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This evocative photograph captures a unique moment in history during the tumultuous year of 1915. Amidst the backdrop of the First World War, soldiers on leave from the front lines found solace and excitement in an unlikely source of entertainment – the Grand National horse race at Aintree. In this intriguing scene, soldiers are seen gathered around a trench periscope, peering intently at the bustling racecourse crowd below. The trench periscope, a military observation device designed for use in the trenches during the war, had been repurposed for this novel viewing experience. The soldiers, dressed in their uniforms and holding their helmets, are completely absorbed in the spectacle unfolding before them. The Grand National, a renowned steeplechase race, had long been a cherished tradition in British culture, and the opportunity to witness it, even from a distance, provided a welcome distraction from the harsh realities of the war. The grandstand, filled with spectators in their finest attire, is visible through the periscope, creating a stark contrast between the soldiers' military surroundings and the civilian world of horse racing. The photograph captures the essence of the human spirit, showcasing the resilience and determination of the soldiers, who, despite the ongoing conflict, found joy and connection in the simple pleasure of watching the Grand National. This historical image offers a fascinating glimpse into the past, highlighting the importance of entertainment and community during a time of war. The soldiers' innovative use of a trench periscope to watch the Grand National at Aintree serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring power of sport and the human spirit to bring people together, even in the most challenging of circumstances.
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