WW1 10: flags of the allied nations

These flags, embroidered in colourful silk thread, represent the allied nations in World War 1.

They are from left to right: Britain (British Empire), Italy, Russia, Belgium, France, Serbia, Romania and Japan.

Sadly, we don’t know who made it, just their initials W. E. and the date, 8 October 1916.

Was this date significant?  Was it a day that somebody important to the maker died, or simply the date it was completed?

There’s an empty rectangle in the centre within a frame of red white and blue silk thread. It looks like it might be meant to hold a photograph.

The anchor at the top also suggests a possible link with the Royal or Merchant Navy.

Perhaps this was a memorial to a sailor who died in the war, whose photograph has been lost, or was never added. We may never know.

The Unity is Strength motto is a popular one, suggesting that the war will be won if the allied nations continue fighting together. It is also the national motto of Belgium, one of the countries represented.