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Christmas leave 1916, scene at Victoria station by Matania
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Christmas leave 1916, scene at Victoria station by Matania
Soldiers exiting Victoria train station, arriving in London on leave for Christmas during the First World War. The central figure, still in tin helmet and trench coat looks is reunited with his mother and his pet dog and holds the hand of his sister who is dressed in the uniform of a London tram conductor. Date: 1916
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Media ID 14166410
© Illustrated London News Ltd/Mary Evans
Arrival Arriving Conductor Conductress Leave Matania Reunion Reunited Sister Stations Tommies Tommy Trench Tram
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This evocative image, captured by the renowned war artist Fortunino Matania in 1916, depicts a poignant scene at Victoria Station in London during the First World War. The chaos of the bustling railway station is momentarily stilled as soldiers, identifiable by their tin helmets and trench coats, disembark from a train, marking their arrival on Christmas leave. At the heart of the scene, a soldier is greeted by his mother and his pet dog, the warmth and love of home evident in their embrace. His sister, dressed in the uniform of a London tram conductor, reaches out to hold his hand, adding a sense of normalcy and continuity amidst the turmoil of war. The soldiers, affectionately referred to as "Tommies," were granted a brief respite from the front lines, allowing them to reconnect with their families and loved ones. The historical significance of this scene resonates deeply, reminding us of the sacrifices made by soldiers and their families during the Great War.
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