In the Shadow of Hell - Behind the Scenes in Poperinghe Ypres Sector 1914-18

Paul Chapman, edited By Ted Smith

ISBN 10: 0850528097 / ISBN 13: 9780850528091

Published by Leo Cooper, "Cameos of the Western Front" series, Barnsley, 2001

About this Item

First printing, 176 pages (xii, 164). half-tone illustrations throughout, index; publisher's orange and white pictorial card covers. Fine, no marks of previous ownership. Pictures show this actual book. UK orders are post-free.

Seller Inventory # 151761

Bibliographic Details

• Title: In the Shadow of Hell - Behind the Scenes in Poperinghe Ypres Sector 1914-18
• Publisher: Leo Cooper, "Cameos of the Western Front" series, Barnsley
• Publication Date: 2001
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0850528097
• ISBN 13: 9780850528091
• Binding: Softcover/Paperback
• Edition: First edition.
• Condition: Fine
• Dust Jacket Condition: No Jacket
• Seller catalogs:
  • History & Biography
  • Military Affairs

About this title

Synopsis

Poperinghe, better known as 'Pop' to the troops of the British Army during the Great War, has its place in history due to the Toc H movement which saw its birth in Talbot House there. This book, the second in Paul Chapman's trilogy, brings to life the town as the troops knew it, a place of 'rest' and entertainment, restaurants and 'theatres', Hotels and billets, bars and brothels, a place for officers and men to enjoy when out of the line. Although it suffered its share of bombing and shelling, the town was not unduly damaged and is much the same today as it was then, apart from the natural expansion due to modern industry and population growth. Most of the buildings used for troop entertainment and general activities are still there, carrying the same names, with many of them offering the same services, although of a more 'refined' type. Having read this book, Poperinghe will present a totally different aspect to todays visitor.

About the Author

Paul Chapman, age 46, founder and ex Chairman of Northampton branch of The Western Front Association is a keen historian and has been a member of the WFA for many years. Paul is also a member of the Talbot House Association, A regular visitor to France and Flanders, for a number of years he has arranged and escorted tours to the Ypres Salient. Paul's interest in the Great War on the western front stems from his paternal grandparents. His grandfather served with the Canadian Army Service Corps and after his demobilisation became, along with many fellow ex-servicemen, one of the first to join the ranks of the Imperial (now Commonwealth) War Graves Commission.