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Hidden Book Treasure No 8: Haig Poppy

I found this delicate, still vibrant, poppy a few weeks ago in a history book about the First World War. The book was published in the 1930's and I'm guessing that the Poppy may be at least 40 years old. It still bears the 'Haig Fund' logo in the centre of the flower and is made from cardboard and artifical silk. If anyone is able to date such an item I'd be fascinated to know more. 

There was a super programme on Radio 4 this week about the history of poppies & wreaths for Remembrance Sunday, 'The Poppy Factory'. If you missed it you can listen HERE 

The following quote comes from Major George Howson, the founder of the Disabled Society, in 1922:
 "I have been given a cheque for £2,000 to make poppies with. It is a large responsibility and will be very difficult. If the experiment is successful it will be the start of an industry to employ 150 men. I do not think it can be a great success, but it is worth doing."

POSTSCRIPT 13th January 2018
Many thanks to Andy Chaloner for identifying the poppy as an Austerity Poppy produced between 1942-44. Reflecting the material shortages of the austere war years, these poppies are identified by having fewer petals and cardboard stalks.  A minority were made from silk like the Hidden Book Treasure above. 

  
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Comments

The Vintage Knitter said…
Here's a link that might interest you, as it appears that your poppy dates from the Twenties.

http://www.worldmilitarycollectables.com/viewitem.php?id=152

Its sad to think that the person to whom the poppy originally belonged to probably lost a loved one or more in the Great War.
11 November 2011 at 17:01
Murgatroyd said…
Oh my goodness - it's identical! Thank you so much for sharing this VK. I had wondered if it was a very early example. I've had little luck with my research.
If only the poppy could talk & tell it's tale of remembrance.
11 November 2011 at 20:51
The Vintage Knitter said…
True, M. It looks very sad with its creased edges, but evidently meant a lot to someone.
12 November 2011 at 08:37
Unknown said…
The Poppy is from 1942-44 and is also referred to as an Austerity Poppy due to the War and the material used, regards Andy Chaloner
13 January 2018 at 16:43
Murgatroyd said…
Thank you Andy, that's much appreciated. What with your information and the passage of time (the post was written in 2011), more details are now available online. Delighted to know more. Best wishes.
13 January 2018 at 18:00
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