A wartime album has resurfaced, offering a glimpse into life in Colchester during World War One.
The archival album, titled "Reminiscences of the Great War Aug. 4th 1915 - Nov. 11th 1918, relations and friends of F & A Holton, Colchester," dates back over a century and sheds light on the lives of Colcestrians during the Great War.
Compiled by Alice Hotton née Wenden and Fred Hotton, the archive includes a variety of artefacts that reflect the period's daily experiences.
These include photographs, newspaper clippings, and personal letters.
Among the more unique items are Borough of Colchester instructions for evacuation dated January 1915, a Colchester and East Essex Co-operative and Industrial Society Ltd sugar supply card, and a poster for T&D Luminous Buttons with two buttons attached.
The album also boasts early samples of Haig’s fund and other remembrance poppies, and fragments of a German Gotha bomber, which was downed at Margate.
Parts of the L33 Zeppelin, downed at Little Wigborough, and the L32 Zeppelin, which met its fate at Billericay, also form part of this historical trove.
John Alexander Reading, or Jack, forms a significant part of the album's narrative, being the nephew of Mr and Mrs Hotton.
Born on May 6, 1900, Jack's life during World War One, often referred to as "Jack's War," is intricately documented, adding a personalised touch to the archive.
The album also boasts early samples of Haig’s fund and other remembrance poppies, and fragments of a German Gotha bomber, which was downed at Margate.
The archive is set to be auctioned at Reeman Dansie on Tuesday, March 17.
The expectation is that it will fetch anywhere between £300 and £500.
Lewis Rabbett, Assosciate Director of Reeman Dansie, said: “I was delighted when this album was brought to us recently, on behalf of the current owner who lives in the local area.
"We understand it has been in the possession of the family for many years, and it is a truly captivating piece of local history.
"This intriguing lot will no doubt capture the interest of both local historians and enthusiasts when it comes up for auction next week."
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