Papers and printed material relating to the National Society's operations during the Franco-Prussian War, 1871
Production date
1871
Audio tour
Description
Papers and printed material relating to the National Society's operations during the Franco-Prussian War. It mainly includes letters to Colonel and Mrs. Loyd-Lindsay outlining the work done by the Agents acting on behalf of the society, appeals for help and letters of gratitude for aid given. There are also reports and notes of the Committees with accounts and ledgers documenting supplies and gifts received from the public and supplies sent to France and Prussia.
The history is that on the 15th of July 1870, the Franco-Prussian war broke out between Napoleon III and Otto Von Bismarck, who recognized that a victorious war would help complete the unification of Germany under Prussian leadership. France declared war without preparation and coordination, and even without allies but felt victory would be assured due to previous military victories.
There was sympathy and support for both sides as France had been a staunch British ally during the Crimean War, but the Royal Family had many German connections.
On the formation of the National Society, Colonel Loyd-Lindsay helped to set up and oversee an efficient administrative and financial system. The Central and Ladies committee were installed at St Martin's Place, a wing of the disused St Martin's Workhouse was annexed for the stores.
Within three weeks of the outbreak, there were 40 surgeons on the battlefields and by the end of September 110 were engaged in the service of the National Society. By the end of September, nearly £200,000 had been donated ,so £40,000 was divided between France and Germany for the benefit of the sick and wounded, with Colonel Loyd-Lindsay entrusted with delivering it to both sides.
Although optimistic at the start, the French suffered massive defeats at Weissenburg and Worth where German numbers overwhelmed the French, and at Forbach which led to a French retreat. In September the siege of Paris began which finally gave way in January 1871, ending the war.
The surplus money which was left over at the end of the war was invested to form a permanent reserve to use in subsequent wars, and some set aside to train women nurses at the Royal Victoria Hospital, Netley. This was a suggestion only.
Audio recording by Richard Rushworth (Volunteer), London.
The history is that on the 15th of July 1870, the Franco-Prussian war broke out between Napoleon III and Otto Von Bismarck, who recognized that a victorious war would help complete the unification of Germany under Prussian leadership. France declared war without preparation and coordination, and even without allies but felt victory would be assured due to previous military victories.
There was sympathy and support for both sides as France had been a staunch British ally during the Crimean War, but the Royal Family had many German connections.
On the formation of the National Society, Colonel Loyd-Lindsay helped to set up and oversee an efficient administrative and financial system. The Central and Ladies committee were installed at St Martin's Place, a wing of the disused St Martin's Workhouse was annexed for the stores.
Within three weeks of the outbreak, there were 40 surgeons on the battlefields and by the end of September 110 were engaged in the service of the National Society. By the end of September, nearly £200,000 had been donated ,so £40,000 was divided between France and Germany for the benefit of the sick and wounded, with Colonel Loyd-Lindsay entrusted with delivering it to both sides.
Although optimistic at the start, the French suffered massive defeats at Weissenburg and Worth where German numbers overwhelmed the French, and at Forbach which led to a French retreat. In September the siege of Paris began which finally gave way in January 1871, ending the war.
The surplus money which was left over at the end of the war was invested to form a permanent reserve to use in subsequent wars, and some set aside to train women nurses at the Royal Victoria Hospital, Netley. This was a suggestion only.
Audio recording by Richard Rushworth (Volunteer), London.
Collection Type
Archives
Level of Current Record
item
Language
Catalogue Number
WAN/1/1/5
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