Item HT 42549 Handkerchief - 'To My Dear Mother', Private William Nairn, World War I, 1917-1918

Summary

Green silk handkerchief embroidered in one corner 'To my dear Mother' and flower motif. It was probably sent by William Nairn to his to his mother Mary during his overseas service in World War I, between February 1917 and July 1918, when he was killed.

William John Nairn was a 28-year-old labourer, born in Buangor near Ararat, when he enlisted to serve in World War I on 28 September 1916 - service no. 3217, principally with the 59th Battalion. He married Eileen Mary (Shannahan) of Corio at St Mary's Church, Geelong before departing Melbourne on the 'Medic' (A7) on 16 December 1916. He arrived in Plymouth, England, on 18 February 1917, was shot in France in October, recovered in England, then was killed shortly after returning to the front in France on 4 July 1918. His widow Eileen continued living at 'Hazeldene', Corio, near Geelong after his death. She received his personal possessions in April 1919, including three wallets, cards, photographs and religious books, and received his medals over subsequent years.

Physical Description

Green silk handkerchief embroidered in one corner with inscription in red cursive script and green and yellow flower. Edges are scalloped, finished with pink chain stitch. Extensive foxing throughout.