Original WWI German or British Crude Wooden Trench Club - 15” Long

Original Item. One-of-a-Kind. With the adoption of Trench Warfare in 1914, the stalemate became intolerable, so the practice of "Trench Raids" was introduced. Taking place at night, these involved a raiding party crossing NO-MANS-LAND and entering into the enemy's trench system to take a few prisoners for interrogation. Clearly these were covert operations and the use of firearms was impossible, so the Army reverted to almost Medieval tactics of using clubs and edged weapons. At first they used spades and bayonets but then more effective weapons were distributed just as we offer here.

This is a very crude wooden trench club made from a single piece of wood. These is some oilcloth/leather wrapped around the bottom of the shaft affixed with crude iron rivets. The head and part of the shaft are painted red, likely done-so later. The head has a very odd shape, but the piece is very solid overall. This example is 15” long.

Apart from the historical connection ideal for home defense or to keep the kids in order. Ready to display.