King's Own Royal Regiment Museum

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The Great War 1914-1918

Away from the Front

After time at the front soldiers were pleased for what ever rest they could get. Many were billeted in farm buildings - and would be grateful for the comfort of sleeping in a straw-filled barn.

Bairnsfather cartoon - life on a farm KO2090/04

Some were accommodated in tents or wooden huts like these at Zevecoton, Belgium.

Huts at Zevecoton, Belgium, spring 1915.
Accession Number KO0784/057

In the afternoon a man could sleep or wander along the country roads or play games with his comrades. Others would take the time to write home to loved ones. The sound of the distant guns never ceased.

Every soldier looked forward to the mail from home - and a letter from a loved one.

Army training before the war turned out to be completely inadequate for the battles taking place.

Soldiers not at the front line learnt about trench warfare from special schools. They practised bombing, anti-gas measures and bayonet fighting.

Entertainment, ranging from pantomime to opera, was organised for the troops. The 4th Division was the first to provide a cinema. Soldiers away from the front were also able to visit music halls and cafes.

Rozello’s visiting card. KO2106/16

Tom B. Wright, alias Poppy Poperenghe, probably entertained many soldiers. KO2106/14

Poster advertising 55th Divisional Theatre, 20th May 1917
Accession Number: KO2106/23

© Images are copyright, Trustees of the King's Own Royal Regiment Museum.
 You must seek permission prior to publication of any of our images.