Tig's Boys

This collection of letters from schoolboys reveals the experiences of young soldiers in World War I, capturing their spirit and resilience during a tragic time. Tig's Boys honors their memory.

The Tig's Boys offers a poignant glimpse into the lives of young men thrust into the horrors of World War I. This collection features letters from former pupils of Bournemouth Grammar, a school founded in 1901, who were barely out of their teenage years when they faced the brutality of trench warfare. The correspondence reveals their experiences, fears, and moments of unexpected levity amidst the chaos of war. Tragically, ninety-eight of these boys lost their lives during the conflict, highlighting the tragic loss of youth and potential during this tumultuous period in history.

Through the eyes of these schoolboys, readers are transported to a time when life was defined by both hardship and camaraderie. The letters, addressed to their beloved headmaster 'Tig,' recount their wartime adventures, from attempts to catch rats in the trenches to engaging in spirited games of football while under fire. The collection captures the essence of their youthful spirit, showcasing how they found moments of joy and laughter even in the darkest of times.

The Tig's Boys serves as a powerful tribute to a generation that was lost too soon. It reminds us of the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of remembering those who sacrificed everything. This unique compilation not only honors their memory but also sheds light on the varied experiences of young soldiers during one of history's bloodiest conflicts.