26.10.1918 Letter from Alfred Johnson to his wife Essie:
What do you think of the news now? I am still inclined to think that an Armistice will be signed in a few weeks time, which I take it will mean the end of the fighting. Reading: Doctor Thorne by Anthony Trollope
Lady Mary's diary 11.11.18
We began the day with an airship sailing round and round, close over us. We all rushed out and cheered and waved. About 11 the band played God Save in the Market place whither we all repaired, the flag was hoisted on the church tower and the bells rung. We don’t yet know that the Germans have yet signed. Wonderful scenes in town.
Effect upon me. I am stunned. Great service 7.30, church crammed. Non com minister read lesson in broad Scotch. Foch’s terms of peace most severe. Lloyd George said “Germany ruined within and without” They intended to ruin us.
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Voices from 1918 has been developed by artists Sharon Hayden and Alastair Nisbet in partnership with Wimborne Community Theatre, Dorset History Centre and the Priest’s House Museum, Wimborne with funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund.
Thanks to all who have helped us with this project: Maria Gayton and staff at Dorset History Centre where we found Lady Mary Monkswell’s diaries; Joan Cocozza, ward of nursing auxiliary Olive Harcourt; Portland Museum where we found James Sansom’s diaries; the British Library and Wellcome Libraries; Priest’s House Museum in Wimborne and Gill Horitz from Wimborne Community Theatre.
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