Cigarette Case
Object detail
Description
A rectangular, silver coloured cigarette case. The case has been damaged and warped due to impact from a bullet. There is loose tobacco and cigarette rolling papers inside the case.
Classification
PERSONAL EFFECTS Smoking Accessories cigarette case
Maker
Measurements
L127 x W82 x H31 mm
Media/Materials description
Steel, paper, tobacco.
History and use
This bullet-damaged cigarette case is included in a collection of items owned by First World War veteran Edward Gilchrist Hope. Hope told his family that this cigarette case saved his life as it was in his breast pocket when he came under enemy fire, and it deflected a bullet that would have killed him. Other items in the collection suffered bullet damage while they were in Hope’s backpack when he came under fire.
The collection also includes Hope's medals, including a DCM he was awarded for his actions near Peronne, France, on 29 August 1918: ”In the attack near Peronne on the 29th August, 1918, he rushed three enemy machine-gun positions single-handed, putting them out of action, and killing or capturing the crews. Later his company advanced through a heavy artillery barrage and suffered heavy casualties. Although wounded, he took up a position within 100 yards of the enemy and beat down their fire with his Lewis gun.”
The collection also includes Hope's medals, including a DCM he was awarded for his actions near Peronne, France, on 29 August 1918: ”In the attack near Peronne on the 29th August, 1918, he rushed three enemy machine-gun positions single-handed, putting them out of action, and killing or capturing the crews. Later his company advanced through a heavy artillery barrage and suffered heavy casualties. Although wounded, he took up a position within 100 yards of the enemy and beat down their fire with his Lewis gun.”
Associated person
Registration number
H48811
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