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See photos for condition!Description
Original World War I U.S. Official Signal Corps photograph, mounted on period cardstock with handwritten period ink caption. The image shows members of the 101st Signal Battalion testing or working with trench communication wires in the Meuse region of France, dated June 4, 1918.
This is a strong WWI field communication scene with soldiers in steel helmets working in a trench/dugout area. Visible details include field telephone/signal equipment, wire lines, trench walls, helmets, and communication gear. The lower right is marked “U.S. Official” and the image appears numbered #32978.
This photo came from a box marked “Original War Photos.” The box reportedly contained 60 original U.S. Official photos.
Historical Background
During World War I, battlefield communication was critical. Signal units laid and repaired telephone wires, operated field phones, carried messages, and maintained contact between command posts and front-line positions. In trench warfare, these wires were often damaged by shellfire, weather, and troop movement, making signal work dangerous and constant.
The U.S. Signal Corps documented the American Expeditionary Forces in France through official photographs like this one. Images showing soldiers actively working with wire and field communication equipment are especially desirable because they show the technical and operational side of the war rather than a standard posed portrait.
The Meuse region became one of the most important American operating areas in 1918, especially during the final months of the war. This photo captures an authentic working moment in the field.
Item Details
- Original WWI U.S. Official Signal Corps photograph
- Subject: 101st Signal Battalion trench wire communication scene
- Signal Corps number visible: #32978
- Location: Meuse region, France
- Date: June 4, 1918
- Marked “U.S. Official” in lower right corner
- Period handwritten ink caption on cardstock mount
- Mounted on original cardstock
- Size: 6 1/2\" x 8 1/2\"
- From box marked “Original War Photos” — box had 60 U.S. Official photos
- Clear trench, wire, helmet, and field communication equipment detail
Notes
A desirable original WWI U.S. Official Signal Corps photograph showing 101st Signal Battalion trench communications work in France. Excellent addition for collectors of WWI photography, U.S. Signal Corps material, AEF history, trench warfare, field telephone equipment, and original U.S. Official war photographs.
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