Trench Journals and Unit Magazines of the First World War

Offering an extraordinary insight into the conflict that became the Great War, Trench Journals and Unit Magazines of the First World War is an unparalleled archival resource that opens a new window onto this period. These newspapers were written by those serving at the front and in the field, soldiers in prisoner of war camps, and men and women supporting the war effort at home through their work in hospitals, factories, and allied services. Many of the journals contain original poetry, artwork, and photographs not published elsewhere. Currently, this collection on the ProQuest platform is comprised largely of magazines published by the British and Dominion forces, many of which were on the Western Front and in the United Kingdom. In addition there are over 100 journals from French units, about 50 from German sections, and a small number from other countries. At the time of writing, Trench Journals features over 700 magazines drawn from collections at The British Library and The Imperial War Museums. Many of these periodicals are rare by virtue of the conditions endured and/or their relatively limited print runs. Trench Journals will be complete in August 2014 at which time content will be doubled with respective contributions from two additional institutions, one each from the United States and Europe. The release of the complete database, dovetailing with the centenary of the outbreak of the First World War, makes its entrance on the scene even more poignant and powerful. Trench Journals and Unit Magazines is a remarkable and evocative resource that stands as a testament to the resilience of human nature.