A Cudgel From
The Trenches

The realities of life in the trenches during World War I was often one of brutal physicality and unexpected close combat.

This cudgel, also known as a ‘trench club’ is a lasting and visceral testament to that fact.

In essence, an improvised weapon, it was fashioned for use during spontaneous nighttime raids to enemy trenches, where rifles and bayonets were too clumsy to use effectively.

It stands as a humbling demonstration of the bravery and very fight for survival that was to last throughout the campaign.