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The pigeon post : messages from outside Paris are brought in by the birds
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The pigeon post : messages from outside Paris are brought in by the birds
The pigeon post : messages from outside Paris are brought in by the birds, magnified by a projector and transcribed Date: Jan - Feb 1871
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Media ID 20952067
© Mary Evans Picture Library
1871 Brought Franco Magnified Messages Pigeon Projector Prussian Siege Technology Transcribed
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This image from January-February 1871 depicts an innovative communication method during a significant historical event in Paris. The scene shows pigeons being brought in with messages tied to their legs, which are then magnified and transcribed using a projector. This unusual postal service, known as the 'Pigeon Post,' played a crucial role during the Franco-Prussian War and the subsequent Siege of Paris. During the siege, which lasted from September 1870 to January 1871, the city was isolated from the outside world, and traditional postal services were disrupted. The Pigeon Post provided a much-needed lifeline for the people of Paris, allowing them to receive news and information from the outside world. The messages were carried by homing pigeons, which were released from various locations and flew back to Paris with their important cargo. Upon their return, the pigeons were greeted by handlers who carefully extracted the messages and brought them to the 'Pigeon Post' center. The messages were then magnified using a projector, allowing the recipients to read the information without having to physically handle the delicate and often illegible notes. The transcribed messages were then distributed to the public, providing them with valuable updates on the ongoing war and the outside world. This unique and resourceful communication method highlights the ingenuity and resilience of the people of Paris during a time of crisis. The Pigeon Post served as a vital link between the city and the outside world, allowing the people to stay informed and connected during the long and isolating siege.
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