Ending 16th Jun, 2019 20:00

Works of Art & Furniture Online

 
  Lot 851
 

A POIGNANT AND FASCINATING ARCHIVE RELATING TO LIEUT. WILLIAM JOHN SHORTER

EXTREMELY POIGNANT AND FASCINATING ARCHIVE RELATING TO LIEUT. WILLIAM JOHN SHORTER, THE ESSEX REGT. AND R.F.C.,
including a group of portrait study photographs of Shorter in Army uniform and others with R.F.C. insignia, two Imperial Service badges, album of photographs depicting training at Burnham, figure studies, studies of bi-planes and others, Essex Regt. badge, Army Marksman badges, also, and probably most importantly a series of hand written letters from Lieut. William John Shorter sent back to his family, chiefly his mother and father dated from 9th February 1917 - 23rd March 1918. The letters describe his attachment to the Royal Flying Corps. - his initial training - aerial gunnery practice off Turnberry - learning to fly - the types of aircraft he flew and related incidents - life in France and in the Mess. In addition, there are three Telegrams informing the family of his death and letters from his Flight Officer and C.O. to his mother explaining the nature of the accident that took his heroic young life at only 20 years of age. The final letter is dated 23rd March 1918, the day before his death. All the letters are signed 'Earlie'. Extracts from some of the letters are illustrated on our website.

Also included in this archive is a memorial plaque, with later engraving to reverse 'Lieut. W. J. Shorter 1/8 Essex Regt. Attd. R.F.C. Killed in Action near Arras 24th March 1918'. Strictly speaking Lieut. William John Shorter was not 'Killed in Action' but..................

Note: References to William John Shorter are made in Trevor Henshaw's 'The Sky Their Battlefied' and Chris Hobson's 'Airmen Died....'

 

A condition report is offered as an indication of any issues visible to the naked eye. As none of our staff is a professional conservator or restorer, buyers must satisfy themselves in respect of condition. The condition report does not form part of any contract between McTear's and the buyer, and all lots are offered "as is" in accordance with our Terms of Business available on our website.

 

Sold for £400
Estimated at £400 - £600


 
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