Christmas 1914

It’s been a busy few weeks here at the Together Trust. As Christmas 2014 is fast approaching however, it seemed a good time to turn back the clock 100 years and see how our boys were faring in France and Belgium as World War One raged on.

Our Boys

Of course Christmas 1914 is highly documented due to the various truces on the Western Front between British and German troops. Suggestions of seasonal greetings being exchanged, carol singing and football matches, all highlight the brief periods during the early days of War when peace occurred.

The Manchester Refuges made a conscious effort at Christmas time to insure all its boys on active service were thought of. The following letter was sent in 1915 with a gift of remembrance to the boys;

My Dear Friend,
The dreadful War still continues and another Christmas finds us all full of anxious thought about our absent friends. Ever since you left we have missed you, but at this special season of the year the absence of all our fellows seems to be intensified. We are, however, comforted by the knowledge they are fighting their country’s battles for a just and righteous cause. We shall keep the ‘Home Fires Burning’ and pray for the day when, God willing, you can return to the old place here with a heart full of thankfulness for duty nobly done.

I send you this letter so you may know that we have not forgotten you, and the Committee forward you a gift with their earnest good wishes for Christmas and New Year. I need scarcely say how pleased we shall be to have a line from you when you can write.

Your Sincere Friend,

Thomas R Ackroyd, Honorary Secretary

Motto’s were also sent out as part of the Christmas parcel to the boys on the Front. The gift contained a body belt and box of chocolates. Many who were on leave returned to visit the Homes and have Christmas dinner with their old ‘Mothers’. It was a brief respite for the boys before the horrors of War continued in 1915.

Today we continue to collect presents for all those within our services. These are donated by local people and businesses in the area. We are hugely grateful for their continued generosity and all those who have given to us throughout our history.

Merry Christmas to all our readers!