At Christmas time most people take the opportunity to stop and think about family and friends and pass on their greetings and well wishes by means of the traditional Christmas card.  The Memorial holds an interesting collection of Christmas cards - different types, various shapes and sizes, and from all conflicts.  One of our earlier and more unusual Christmas cards can be seen below.

This card dates from around 1902 and was sent to Frederick Bottomley by a friend serving in Canadian forces during the South African War (Boer War).  Written on a piece of khaki cloth, the greeting reads:

"Compliments of the season to you he sends

A Soldier who is not with the best of his Friends

On a piece of khaki from an old coat worn

Discarded because it was tattered and torn

It's not a gilt edge or highly priced card

But it carries my best and kindest regards."

This card and another like it are contained within the Memorial's Private Records collection at 3DRL/6346.  Both cards are currently on display in the Memorial's South African War Gallery.

Merry Christmas!