Officers' Book online

When Talbot House opened its doors in December 1915, it was not only set up as an Everyman's Club, but also as an inn. Officers on leave got Bed & Breakfast here while waiting for a train that was to take them home, or bring them back to the front. From the very first days, however, the accommodation was so well-established that five months later the facilities were moved to a daughter-house.

During this early period of Talbot House, a Visitors' Book was kept in which almost 1,300 signatures were recorded. As such it makes a telling document: officers from nearly all units active in the area at that time seem to have found their way to Talbot House. But from this long list of names also emerges a frightening question. Who were these men? And what did the war have in store for them after their stay at Talbot House? They might have enjoyed a good sleep, yes - but what next?

The Visitors' Book leads to more than 120 cemeteries and war monuments. One of them is Lijssenthoek cemetery. Thirteen officers, who signed this little book, are buried at Lijssenthoek. 

The original Visitors' Book (14/12/1915 - 07/04/1916) can be consulted online. 

Photos