"Rosalie": Trench Art SMLE with a Most Improbable Story

Published on December 21, 2020
Duration: 10:32

This entry details the unique story of 'Rosalie,' a trench art SMLE rifle. The rifle features extensive carvings by soldier Henri Le Car, documenting his WWI experiences and unit history. Expert Ian McCollum highlights the rifle's improbable survival and eventual reunion with its creator, showcasing it as a rare piece of military history and personal artistry.

Quick Summary

The 'Rosalie' SMLE is a unique trench art rifle featuring extensive carvings by WWI soldier Henri Le Car, documenting his wartime experiences. Despite strict military discipline, Le Car concealed his artwork, and the rifle survived an improbable journey of loss and recovery, eventually being recognized by its creator decades later.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to 'Rosalie'
  2. 01:03Henri Le Car's First Rifle
  3. 02:27The Carvings of 'Rosalie'
  4. 04:08Hiding the Art
  5. 05:51Loss and Recovery
  6. 07:47The Improbable Reunion
  7. 09:36Historical Significance

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of the 'Rosalie' SMLE rifle?

'Rosalie' is a rare example of extensive trench art on an SMLE rifle, featuring carvings by soldier Henri Le Car documenting his WWI experiences. It survived strict military discipline and tells an improbable story of loss, recovery, and reunion.

Who was Henri Le Car and what did he carve on the rifle?

Henri Le Car was a soldier who carved his SMLE rifle, named 'Rosalie,' with battle names like Vimy Ridge, Passchendaele, and Arras, along with personal inscriptions, effectively turning it into a visual journal of his WWI journey.

How did Henri Le Car hide his rifle carvings from military authorities?

Le Car cleverly carved only on the left side of the rifle, allowing him to conceal the artwork against his leg during parades and inspections. He was caught twice but managed to keep the rifle.

What is the history of the 'Rosalie' SMLE rifle after WWI?

Lost in 1918, the rifle was recovered, sent to the Enfield factory in England, and later returned to Canada. It was eventually recognized by Le Car himself in a museum exhibit in 1956.

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