The Western Front Association and the National Army Museum in Britain are organising a conference entitled ‘The Great War Underground’.
The conference will “investigate the realities of the “hidden” war underground”.
It will take place on the 2nd November 2013.
Once trench warfare established itself in Europe during the conflict, considerations to attack the enemy from underground were made. Initial efforts were small scale, but by the end of 1916 mining operations were being conducted along almost two-thirds of the British section of the Western Front.
Speakers
Philip Robinson, An introduction to military mining – Examines the different purposes of military mining in the context of military history.
Professor Peter Doyle, The Geology of the Western Front – Explains the impact that geology had on mining activities.
Peter Barton, A Deadly Rhythm – Military mining during the Great War – a technical view for the layman.
David Hedges, Canadian Graffiti in Maison Blanche – The story of the research into the graffiti carved by the Canadians who sheltered in a recently discovered, ancient underground quarry.
Dr Ritchie Wood, Welsh miners on the Western Front – The story of the Welsh miners before, during, and after the war.
Simon Jones, Born fighters: Who were the tunnellers? – Personal biographies will be used to explain who the Tunnellers were and how their special skills led to their amazing success.
Dr Ritchie Wood, Welsh miners on the Western Front – The story of the Welsh miners before, during, and after the war.
Tickets
Tickets for the conference cost £25 and can be purchased from the National Army Museum website, shop or by phone: 0207 881 6600.
Images courtesy of the Western Front Association
Posted by: Daniel Barry, Centenary News