WW1 1st Infantry Division Patch "Living" photograph c. 1919

This photograph is similar to the famous Mole and Thomas photographs that were done stateside during/ after the war to boost morale.

Mole and Thomas used people to create large iconic images-- Statue of Liberty, Liberty Bell, Uncle Sam, -- which were called "living photographs".

My example is by the "Photo- Design Company, Lakewood NJ".

The photograph was taken at the Coblenz Bridgehead, which was the first occupation site of the 1st Division at the close of the War.

The Division patch of the "Big Red One" was created from the entire division. The location has been spelled out in helmets. Standing at the point is the Division Commander and the back edge of the patch consists of over one hundred soldier lined up. It is amazing that this was created using soldiers.

At the bottom of the photograph is a quote from John Pershing's GO, 201 from 1918: "The Commander in Chief has noted in the First Division a special pride of service, and a high morale, never broken in hardship or battle."

The photograph measures 12" X 15" in its original period frame.

Scott