First Envelope:
Postmark: "Grenoble 25 Nov 16 Isere", indicating it was sent from Grenoble in the Isère department on November 25th at 1916.
Addressed to: "S.M. Monsieur le commandant du dépôt du 64 Régiment d'infanterie à Ancenis", which translates to "To the commander of the depot of the 64th Infantry Regiment in Ancenis."
Sender: "Médecin Major de 2 classe Mayet, Médecin chef des convalescents, Bayard, N 30 à Grenoble" Translation: "Second Class Major Doctor Mayet, Chief Doctor of Convalescents, Bayard, No. 30 in Grenoble."
This envelope was likely used for official correspondence between medical staff at a convalescent hospital in Grenoble and the administrative officer of an infantry regiment, possibly concerning the health or transfer of soldiers recovering from injuries or illnesses.
Second Envelope:
Addressed to: Identical to the first envelope, "S.M Monsieur le commandant du dépôt 64 Régiment d'infanterie à Ancenis."
Postmark: "Hôpital Dépôt de convalescents Bayard N 30 à Grenoble Le médecin Chef", indicating it was sent from the same medical facility in Grenoble, with the postmark identifying the sender as the Chief Doctor of the convalescent depot.
This envelope, like the first, would have been used for official communications regarding the medical care, status, or administrative details of convalescing soldiers, showcasing the system for managing wounded or sick troops during WWI.
Historical Context: These envelopes highlight the organized medical support system for French soldiers during WWI, where convalescent hospitals played a crucial role in rehabilitating soldiers before they either returned to the front or were discharged. The communication between medical staff at these hospitals and the infantry regiments' depots was vital for managing personnel and resources.
Condition: Both envelopes show signs of wear due to their age and postal journey, including creases, fading, postal marks, or slight damage from handling.
Historical Significance: These are essential for collectors interested in WWI military logistics, French army medical services, or postal history. They provide direct evidence of the care and administrative efforts behind the scenes of the war.
Offers insights into the health services for soldiers, the postal system's role in military operations, and the personal stories of recovery during wartime.
Note: These envelopes not only serve as historical artifacts but also as poignant reminders of the human side of war, where the recovery and well-being of soldiers were managed with as much care as the military strategies themselves.
