Displays "Martizay (Indre) - La place du bosquet et la route de Preuilly", showing a town square and road, offering a glimpse into rural French life during the war. This image might have served to evoke a sense of home or nostalgia for soldiers away at the front.
Marked as "Carte Postale".
Message: Dated "Le 23-1-17 Un grand Bonjour à toute la 10ème Esc de" ("January 23, 1917, A big hello to everyone in the 10th Squadron of"), showing a personal greeting to a specific military unit, likely from someone with connections to the soldiers in that unit.
Recipient: "Messieurs les Poilus de la 10ième Esc de du 264 infanterie 13ème Compagnie J.P. 87", indicating it was addressed to the soldiers of the 10th Squadron of the 264th Infantry Regiment, 13th Company, J.P. 87, where "Poilus" is a term of endearment for French soldiers akin to "doughboys" for Americans.
Postmark: "Martizay 24-1-17 Indre", indicating it was processed in Martizay on January 24, 1917.
Rural France in WWI: This postcard reflects how even small towns like Martizay were part of the war effort, with locals sending support or news to soldiers at the front, keeping the home front connected to those fighting.
Military Units: The mention of specific regiments and companies shows the detailed organization of the French army, where soldiers were not just numbers but part of closely knit units, receiving personal messages from home.
Geography of War: Indre, though not on the front lines, was part of the logistical and emotional support network for the French military, with its towns contributing to the war effort through soldiers, supplies, or moral support.
Condition: Given its age and historical journey, the envelope exhibits signs of wear such as fading, creases, or minor tears. The condition reflects its passage through wartime postal systems.
Historical Significance: An invaluable piece for collectors of WWI memorabilia, focusing on the personal and local stories of the war, French military history, or the postal history of wartime France. It provides a direct link to the lives of "Poilus" and their communities. Offers insights into the structure of French military units, the role of rural areas in the war, and the importance of communication in maintaining the spirit of the troops.
Note: This WWI postal card is more than just a piece of postal history; it's a snapshot of community support, personal connection, and the enduring link between the home front and the battlefront during one of history's most defining conflicts.
