Model of a WW1 tank made by German prisoners of war

[GreensandsParticipant @greensands]

Following publication of the photo showing a 3D resin printed German tank in the current issue of the ME&W I thought forum members would be interested  to see how model making of a WW1 tank was done over 100 years ago. This model is of a British tank made out of brass and copper by German prisoners of war obviously using very basic tools and hammer and nail technique for the detailed engraving work. The model was brought back from WW1, possibly from the Cambrai  area, by my Grandfather who served as a corporal in the RASC and has been in the family ever since.  Interesting to see how the world has progressed.

[Mick B1Participant @mickb1]

To some of us it seems we’re ‘progressing’ back to the early 18th century… 🙁

[DustyParticipant @dusty]

I suspect, and the evidence would suggest that this was in fact made by British prisoner of war in a German Camp.

“World War” is in English and I doubt that a German Prisoner of war would have made the (engraving) in English.

[Dusty]

On Dusty Said:

I suspect, and the evidence would suggest that this was in fact made by British prisoner of war in a German Camp.

“World War” is in English and I doubt that a German Prisoner of war would have made the (engraving) in English.

We will never know!  But I doubt it was made by a German POW, and definitely not by one near Cambrai.  Prisoners were only temporarily kept near the front-line in very basic accommodation, and were soon dispersed to distant camps from which it was difficult to escape home.

Unlikely to have been made by a POW,  not impossible, more likely by someone with access to materials.   The crude build suggests no workshop, so could well have been made in the trenches.   It was remarked that war is 99% boredom and 1% terror, so plenty of time to fill.

The model probably predates the engravings, which were likely added after the war.   The term ‘World War’ didn’t catch on until after 1918, and nor did the poppies the tank is decorated with.   The battle names are all British, not German.   I think it’s genuine, but the backstory has been embellished by a POW.  The reality was probably more interesting: someone served, survived an appalling war, and cherished it as a remembrance.

Dave

 

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