United Kingdom (1917-1918)
Blairgowrie, Scotland Tank Week, 113 Julian
On the 18th September 1918 the fund raising WW1 Mk.IV Male tank Julian 113 arrived in Blairgowrie.
Julian 113 Scottish Tank Bank tour
Kirkcaldy Monday 16th September 1918
Cupar Tuesday 17th September 1918
Blairgowrie 18th September 1918
Coupar-Angus Thursday 19th September 1918
Kirriemuir Friday 20th September 1918
Arbroath Saturday 21st September 1918
Forfar Monday 23rd September 1918
Brechin Tuesday 24th September 1918
Montrose 25th September 1918 Scottish Tank Bank tour advert
Tank Week
The British Government needed to raise money to pay for the war effort. The tank was a new technology, and most of the population had not seen one. The War Savings Committee decided that six Mk.IV tanks would tour the country starting in December 1917 and throughout 1918 acting as ‘Tank Banks’ during celebrations known as ‘Tank Week.’ Companies and members of the public would be able to buy National War Bonds and War Savings Certificates from the cashier inside the door of the tank sponson. There were 20 shillings to the British Pound. For every 15s 6d (15 shillings and 6 pence: the minimum investment) invested in a War Savings Certificate, after five years, the government would pay back 20 shillings, an increase of 4s 6d (4 shillings and 6 pence). That is a 22.5% return. This was an attractive rate of return so many people and pension companies like the Provincial invested a lot of capital into War Savings Certificates and War Bonds (minimum investment £5). The War Bonds were sold to private investors in 1917 with the advertisement: “If you cannot fight, you can help your country by investing all you can in 5 per cent Exchequer Bonds … Unlike the soldier, the investor runs no risk.”
The six Mk.IV tanks were 113 Julian 4005, 119 Ole Bill, 130 Nelson, 137 Drake, 138 Iron Ration 4034, 141 Egbert and 142 also sometimes called Egbert although it never bore that name. Tank 141 Egbert was the only tank that had actually seen service in France. Other tanks were used. The top 256 fundraising towns and cities were offered a WW1 presentation tank as a thank you. Tanks Encyclopedia writer and researcher Craig Moore has researched and collected photographs of the Tank Week tank visits. If you find more photographs that are not in this collection, please send them to [email protected]
United Kingdom (1917-1918)
Blackpool Tank Week, Mk.IV Male tank 113 Julian
Blackpool Tank Week 17 February 1918.Tank Bank at Blackpool, Julian’s Fairwell stunt.Blackpool Tank Week Mk.IV Male tank 113 Julian
The Mk.IV Male tank 113 Julian arrived in Blackpool on 17 February 1918 (following appearances in London, Manchester, Edinburgh, Dundee and Glasgow. Julian arrived by train and proceeded from the station (Blackpool North probably) along Talbot Road to Talbot Square, apparently making a terrible mess of the road.
Tank Week
The British Government needed to raise money to pay for the war effort. The tank was a new technology, and most of the population had not seen one. The War Savings Committee decided that six Mk.IV tanks would tour the country starting in December 1917 and throughout 1918 acting as ‘Tank Banks’ during celebrations known as ‘Tank Week.’ Companies and members of the public would be able to buy National War Bonds and War Savings Certificates from the cashier inside the door of the tank sponson. There were 20 shillings to the British Pound. For every 15s 6d (15 shillings and 6 pence: the minimum investment) invested in a War Savings Certificate, after five years, the government would pay back 20 shillings, an increase of 4s 6d (4 shillings and 6 pence). That is a 22.5% return. This was an attractive rate of return so many people and pension companies like the Provincial invested a lot of capital into War Savings Certificates and War Bonds (minimum investment £5). The War Bonds were sold to private investors in 1917 with the advertisement: “If you cannot fight, you can help your country by investing all you can in 5 per cent Exchequer Bonds … Unlike the soldier, the investor runs no risk.”
The six Mk.IV tanks were 113 Julian 4005, 119 Ole Bill, 130 Nelson, 137 Drake, 138 Iron Ration 4034, 141 Egbert and 142 also sometimes called Egbert although it never bore that name. Tank 141 Egbert was the only tank that had actually seen service in France. Other tanks were used. The top 256 fundraising towns and cities were offered a WW1 presentation tank as a thank you. Tanks Encyclopedia writer and researcher Craig Moore has researched and collected photographs of the Tank Week tank visits. If you find more photographs that are not in this collection, please send them to [email protected]
United Kingdom (1917-1918)
Birmingham Tank Week, 119 Ole Bill
The amount of money raised during the war effort fundraising Tank Week was staggering. Birmingham was one of the top ten cities and raised a total of £6,703,439.
Birmingham Tank Week, 119 Ole Bill in Victoria Square.
Birmingham Tank Week, 119 Ole Bill was a Mk.IV male tank armed with machine guns and two 6pdr main guns mounted in side sponsons.Birmingham Tank Week was very popular. The crowds were huge.Birmingham Tank Week, Ladders were used to enable guests of honour and speakers to stand on the top of the tank 119 Ole Bill
Tank Week
The British Government needed to raise money to pay for the war effort. The tank was a new technology, and most of the population had not seen one. The War Savings Committee decided that six Mk.IV tanks would tour the country starting in December 1917 and throughout 1918 acting as ‘Tank Banks’ during celebrations known as ‘Tank Week.’ Companies and members of the public would be able to buy National War Bonds and War Savings Certificates from the cashier inside the door of the tank sponson. There were 20 shillings to the British Pound. For every 15s 6d (15 shillings and 6 pence: the minimum investment) invested in a War Savings Certificate, after five years, the government would pay back 20 shillings, an increase of 4s 6d (4 shillings and 6 pence). That is a 22.5% return. This was an attractive rate of return so many people and pension companies like the Provincial invested a lot of capital into War Savings Certificates and War Bonds (minimum investment £5). The War Bonds were sold to private investors in 1917 with the advertisement: “If you cannot fight, you can help your country by investing all you can in 5 per cent Exchequer Bonds … Unlike the soldier, the investor runs no risk.”
The six Mk.IV tanks were 113 Julian 4005, 119 Ole Bill, 130 Nelson, 137 Drake, 138 Iron Ration 4034, 141 Egbert and 142 also sometimes called Egbert although it never bore that name. Tank 141 Egbert was the only tank that had actually seen service in France. Other tanks were used. The top 256 fundraising towns and cities were offered a WW1 presentation tank as a thank you. Tanks Encyclopedia writer and researcher Craig Moore has researched and collected photographs of the Tank Week tank visits. If you find more photographs that are not in this collection, please send them to [email protected].
Birmingham Tank Week
Birmingham Mail
It was the week-long propaganda exercise that saw the whole of Birmingham scrape together enough cash to pay for 24 hours of warfare on the Western Front. A staggering sum of more than £6.5 MILLION. And it was prompted by one tank rumbling into the heart of the Second City amid the sound of a brass band playing. New Year’s Eve 1917 heralded the start of “Tank Week” in Birmingham. It was, quite simply, a national initiative that saw that leviathan of trench warfare, the tank, paraded amid great excitement in cities. And the gimmick had added significance for Brummies. Because many of the tanks were built here. It was an initiative aimed at boosting Britain’s dwindling war coffers. And Birmingham responded to the arrival of the ultimate hi-tech weapon, dubbed a “ferocious, unstoppable mechanised behemoth” by Prime Minister Lloyd George, by raising a record amount. Unbelievably, Birmingham residents raised £6,585,439 thanks to a Saturday surge in contributions of £2,274,795. The importance of Tank Week to the war effort has now been chronicled by military researchers Richard Pursehouse and Lee Dent, who front history group The Chase Project, which made headlines last year by uncovering a lost scale model of Belgian town Messines, crafted by German prisoner held at Cannock Chase in 1918.
Birmingham Tank Week advert
The “Messines Model” features inches-high copies of homes, churches and trenches. It was used to train troops. Now, Richard and Lee have dug deep into the archives to uncover the true significance of Tank Week. The lumbering, smoke-belching machines first saw action in September 1916. But their true worth was displayed at The Battle of Cambrai in November 1917, when 400 of the metal beasts smashed through the German frontline and advanced five miles. The success sparked a peal of bells across the country. Recognising an opportunity to boost sales in war bonds and savings certificates, the National War Savings Committee, in early November, 1917, obtained two tanks for the annual Lord Mayor of London’s show.
The positive reaction to this spontaneous “Tank Week” in Trafalgar Square, led to letters in The Times calling for the machines to be sent to more towns and cities. As a gimmick, it worked like a dream. Tank 130 was kept in Trafalgar Square, raising more than £3 million, while Tank 113 was sent to Liverpool and realised £2,061,012. A third tank, 119 Ole Bill – wrongly called “Old Bill” by the press – was sent to Manchester and proved a real cash cow, wringing £4,500,000 from the awe-stricken public. Birmingham was brimful with excitement as preparations got underway for Tank 119 to trundle into Birmingham.
Mayor of Birmingham at Tank Bank
It arrived at Hockley Station just before noon, under the supervision of transport officer Lieutenant Thurston. Mr Pursehouse paints the picture of the scenes sparked by the tank’s arrival. “The tank followed the band of the 1st and 2nd Southern General Hospital of Dudley Road, and their mascot, a St Bernard dog bedecked in Union Jack flag,” he says. “Tank 119 proceeded to its pre-prepared position outside the council offices in Victoria Square. “Despite the poor weather conditions, a crowd of around 60,000 assembled to witness the arrival.
“The Lord Mayor of Birmingham, Alderman Brook, had sent invitations out to local firms and those considered to wield influence in society, exhorting them to attend, buy war bonds and help to exceed the amounts raised by Manchester and Liverpool. Civic pride was at stake. “Above the tank, a large billboard was erected to show the amounts that had been raised each day by Liverpool and Manchester so that Birmingham’s daily progress could be compared by the crowd.
Tank Bank cartoon advert
“As the week progressed, it became evident that Birmingham was doing well. A constant stream of music hall entertainers and speakers came to address and entertain the crowd waiting patiently for their bonds and certificates to be stamped ‘Tank Bank’ “The entertainer Mr Williams, for example, recited the Harold Begbie War Poem ‘The Man Behind The Guns’, which was later to be put to music and was popular in music halls throughout the country. “The Bishop of Birmingham explained to the crowd that the cost of one day of fighting was around £6,500,000 – and declared that Birmingham should aim to raise enough to ‘pay for one day of the war’.”
At the same time as Birmingham’s Tank Week, Tank 113 (named Julian) was at Newcastle and 130 (Nelson) was at Bradford. Upon hearing that Newcastle ship owner and Councillor Mr A. Munro had personally bought £250,000 of bonds, workers at Birmingham Small Arms Factory weighed in by snapping up £300,000 worth. Other major contributors included Guest, Keen and Nettlefold, with £250,000, and The Metropolitan Carriage Works Finance Company, where tanks were assembled, which also invested £250,000.
A visit by the National War Savings Committee Chairman Sir Robert Kindersley to the 18,000 workforce at Longbridge’s Austin Motor Works resulted in their cheque being escorted to the Tank Bank in a Town Hall procession of armoured cars built at the plant. Mr Pursehouse adds: “As well as speakers such as the Lord Mayor and the Bishop of Birmingham, Sergeant Alfred Knight of the 2nd Post Office Rifles – a local soldier educated at the Oratory School on the Hagley Road – was presented to the cheering crowd, standing on top of the tank.
England Expects Tank bank advert
“Sergeant Knight was awarded his Victoria Cross for two bayonet charges through his own barrage and single-handedly capturing an enemy position in the Ypres sector of the front in September 1917. “His was the fifth VC awarded to someone from the city. He reminded his fellow citizens that ‘the men in the field got tired of the horror of their work, and they watched, keenly watched, the papers, and so long as they could see that the people at home were fully supporting them, they would carry on’.”
“After his speech, the Mayor handed him a statuette of a bomb thrower on an oak base which bore the regimental badge and the VC colours. “As the sales of war bonds swelled, a final push to attain the ‘Pay for a Day’ goal was made, and the intense, but friendly, rivalry between cities can best be summed up on the penultimate day of fundraising as Birmingham’s total for five days had surpassed that of Manchester by an estimated £510,000.
“On the Saturday morning the Lord Mayor of Manchester telegrammed ‘Well done Birmingham. Hope you beat us’,” adds Mr Pursehouse. The fact that so many people turned out to see the tank in miserable weather, and purchased so many bonds and certificates, is testimony to the resolve of the people of Birmingham. As the final figure was announced, the lighting restrictions were ignored, magnesium flares burned and the guns of six armoured cars from Longbridge set up a “deafening boom amid the cheers of the thousands of spectators”. Birmingham had done it. It had bought the war for a day.
Ole Bill Birmingham Tank week cartoon advertTank Bank ticketBirmingham Tank Week, 119 Ole Bill
United Kingdom (1917-1918)
Arbroath, Scotland Tank Week, 113 Julian
Arbroath Tank Bank
The tank Julian arrived in Arbroath by rail on Saturday 21 September 1918 in the wake of a successful day’s business in Kirriemuir. During the night he was berthed in the goods siding opposite Robert Street, but even before being unveiled to the public, curious Arbroathians had made their way for a look at the war machine. At 9:30 am Julian made his appearance, unlimbering himself from the railway carriages which were employed to transport him from town to town.
The tank proceeded on his route through the town via Helen Street, Keptie Street and the West Port to Millgate, his entry through the town met with great interest. Crowds of people were gathered along the sides of the streets to watch his progress, with Acting-Chief Constable Wilson and a large force of volunteer special constables seeing that the tank’s progress went uninterrupted.
Upon his arrival at the junction of Millgate and Park Street, opposite the corner of Brothock Mill, Julian was placed upon a platform which had been prepared for his brief stay in Arbroath. His visit was accompanied by continuous music which was performed by the Arbroath Instrumental Band, the 4th Volunteer Battalion of the Black Watch, and the Boys’ Brigade Flute Band.
The opening ceremony began at 11:30 am, presided over by Provost Rutherford Thomson, who was accompanied by the Rt. Hon. Robert Munro, Secretary for Scotland; Miss Findlay, Director of the Scottish War Savings Committee; Mr W. J. Rollo, Hon. Secretary of the Central War Savings Committee, along with several other members of Arbroath Town Council and Ex-Provost Grant. Following a short welcome address by Provost Rutherford, the Rt Hon Munro and Miss Findlay spoke to the gathered crowd about freedom versus slavery and the necessity to invest in War Savings Certificates to aid those in the field. The opening ceremony was concluded with a vote of thanks by Ex-Provost Grant, who stressed that for the day’s event “minutes represent money” and after a rendition of the National Anthem by the Arbroath Instrumental Band business was commenced.
Messrs. Scott & Graham had provided the Auction Mart buildings opposite Julian’s stance to the Local War Savings Committee from where they could collect investments from the public. Business throughout the afternoon was conducted by a large staff of volunteer assistants under the direction of Mr James Brydon, Postmaster, and Mr James Campbell, Headmaster of Keptie Public School, who officiated on behalf of the War Savings Association.
Mr W. J. Rollo announced that the total amount invested up to the close of business on Saturday evening was £93,000, which by Monday morning had increased further to a little over £100,000. Along with the public contributions throughout the day, at a meeting of Arbroath Town Council on 4 October 1918, it was agreed that an additional investment of £3,500 would be made from the public purse.
(University of Edinburgh)
Advertisement for the visit of ‘Julian’ to the Arbroath Tank Bank, 21 September 1918. Julian and his crew
Julian 113 Scottish Tank Bank tour
Kirkcaldy Monday 16th September 1918
Cupar Tuesday 17th September 1918
Blairgowrie 18th September 1918
Coupar-Angus Thursday 19th September 1918
Kirriemuir Friday 20th September 1918
Arbroath Saturday 21st September 1918
Forfar Monday 23rd September 1918
Brechin Tuesday 24th September 1918
Montrose 25th September 1918 Tank Week Scotland advert
Tank Week
The British Government needed to raise money to pay for the war effort. The tank was a new technology, and most of the population had not seen one. The War Savings Committee decided that six Mk.IV tanks would tour the country starting in December 1917 and throughout 1918 acting as ‘Tank Banks’ during celebrations known as ‘Tank Week.’ Companies and members of the public would be able to buy National War Bonds and War Savings Certificates from the cashier inside the door of the tank sponson. There were 20 shillings to the British Pound. For every 15s 6d (15 shillings and 6 pence: the minimum investment) invested in a War Savings Certificate, after five years, the government would pay back 20 shillings, an increase of 4s 6d (4 shillings and 6 pence). That is a 22.5% return. This was an attractive rate of return so many people and pension companies like the Provincial invested a lot of capital into War Savings Certificates and War Bonds (minimum investment £5). The War Bonds were sold to private investors in 1917 with the advertisement: “If you cannot fight, you can help your country by investing all you can in 5 per cent Exchequer Bonds … Unlike the soldier, the investor runs no risk.”
The six Mk.IV tanks were 113 Julian 4005, 119 Ole Bill, 130 Nelson, 137 Drake, 138 Iron Ration 4034, 141 Egbert and 142 also sometimes called Egbert although it never bore that name. Tank 141 Egbert was the only tank that had actually seen service in France. Other tanks were used. The top 256 fundraising towns and cities were offered a WW1 presentation tank as a thank you. Tanks Encyclopedia writer and researcher Craig Moore has researched and collected photographs of the Tank Week tank visits. If you find more photographs that are not in this collection, please send them to [email protected]
The British Government needed to raise money to pay for the war effort. The tank was a new technology, and most of the population had not seen one. The War Savings Committee decided that six Mk.IV tanks would tour the country starting in December 1917 and throughout 1918 acting as ‘Tank Banks’ during celebrations known as ‘Tank Week.’ Companies and members of the public would be able to buy National War Bonds and War Savings Certificates from the cashier inside the door of the tank sponson. There were 20 shillings to the British Pound. For every 15s 6d (15 shillings and 6 pence: the minimum investment) invested in a War Savings Certificate, after five years, the government would pay back 20 shillings, an increase of 4s 6d (4 shillings and 6 pence). That is a 22.5% return. This was an attractive rate of return so many people and pension companies like the Provincial invested a lot of capital into War Savings Certificates and War Bonds (minimum investment £5). The War Bonds were sold to private investors in 1917 with the advertisement: “If you cannot fight, you can help your country by investing all you can in 5 per cent Exchequer Bonds … Unlike the soldier, the investor runs no risk.”
The six Mk.IV tanks were 113 Julian 4005, 119 Ole Bill, 130 Nelson, 137 Drake, 138 Iron Ration 4034, 141 Egbert and 142 also sometimes called Egbert although it never bore that name. Tank 141 Egbert was the only tank that had actually seen service in France. Other tanks were used. The top 256 fundraising towns and cities were offered a WW1 presentation tank as a thank you. Tanks Encyclopedia writer and researcher Craig Moore has researched and collected photographs of the Tank Week tank visits. If you find more photographs that are not in this collection, please send them to [email protected]
United Kingdom (1917-1918)
Accrington, Blackburn, and Darwen Tank Week
Tram decorated for ‘Tank Week’ fundraising as part of the war effort. A joint event run by Accrington, Blackburn and Darwen councils, January 28th, 1918.
Tank Week
The British Government needed to raise money to pay for the war effort. The tank was a new technology, and most of the population had not seen one. The War Savings Committee decided that six Mk.IV tanks would tour the country starting in December 1917 and throughout 1918 acting as ‘Tank Banks’ during celebrations known as ‘Tank Week.’ Companies and members of the public would be able to buy National War Bonds and War Savings Certificates from the cashier inside the door of the tank sponson. There were 20 shillings to the British Pound. For every 15s 6d (15 shillings and 6 pence: the minimum investment) invested in a War Savings Certificate, after five years, the government would pay back 20 shillings, an increase of 4s 6d (4 shillings and 6 pence). That is a 22.5% return. This was an attractive rate of return so many people and pension companies like the Provincial invested a lot of capital into War Savings Certificates and War Bonds (minimum investment £5). The War Bonds were sold to private investors in 1917 with the advertisement: “If you cannot fight, you can help your country by investing all you can in 5 per cent Exchequer Bonds … Unlike the soldier, the investor runs no risk.”
The six Mk.IV tanks were 113 Julian 4005, 119 Ole Bill, 130 Nelson, 137 Drake, 138 Iron Ration 4034, 141 Egbert and 142 also sometimes called Egbert although it never bore that name. Tank 141 Egbert was the only tank that had actually seen service in France. Other tanks were used. The top 256 fundraising towns and cities were offered a WW1 presentation tank as a thank you. Tanks Encyclopedia writer and researcher Craig Moore has researched and collected photographs of the Tank Week tank visits. If you find more photographs that are not in this collection, please send them to [email protected]
United Kingdom (1917-1918)
Bethnal Green Tank Week, 119 Old Bill
Tank Week
The British Government needed to raise money to pay for the war effort. The tank was a new technology, and most of the population had not seen one. The War Savings Committee decided that six Mk.IV tanks would tour the country starting in December 1917 and throughout 1918 acting as ‘Tank Banks’ during celebrations known as ‘Tank Week.’ Companies and members of the public would be able to buy National War Bonds and War Savings Certificates from the cashier inside the door of the tank sponson. There were 20 shillings to the British Pound. For every 15s 6d (15 shillings and 6 pence: the minimum investment) invested in a War Savings Certificate, after five years, the government would pay back 20 shillings, an increase of 4s 6d (4 shillings and 6 pence). That is a 22.5% return. This was an attractive rate of return so many people and pension companies like the Provincial invested a lot of capital into War Savings Certificates and War Bonds (minimum investment £5). The War Bonds were sold to private investors in 1917 with the advertisement: “If you cannot fight, you can help your country by investing all you can in 5 per cent Exchequer Bonds … Unlike the soldier, the investor runs no risk.”
The six Mk.IV tanks were 113 Julian 4005, 119 Ole Bill, 130 Nelson, 137 Drake, 138 Iron Ration 4034, 141 Egbert and 142 also sometimes called Egbert although it never bore that name. Tank 141 Egbert was the only tank that had actually seen service in France. Other tanks were used. The top 256 fundraising towns and cities were offered a WW1 presentation tank as a thank you. Tanks Encyclopedia writer and researcher Craig Moore has researched and collected photographs of the Tank Week tank visits. If you find more photographs that are not in this collection, please send them to [email protected]
United Kingdom (1917-1918)
Coupar-Angus, Scotland Tank Week, 113 Julian
On the Thursday 19th September 1918 the fund raising WW1 tank Julian 113 arrived in Coupar-Angus.
Julian 113 Scottish Tank Bank tour
Kirkcaldy Monday 16th September 1918
Cupar Tuesday 17th September 1918
Blairgowrie 18th September 1918
Coupar-Angus Thursday 19th September 1918
Kirriemuir Friday 20th September 1918
Arbroath Saturday 21st September 1918
Forfar Monday 23rd September 1918
Brechin Tuesday 24th September 1918
Montrose 25th September 1918
Tank Week
The British Government needed to raise money to pay for the war effort. The tank was a new technology, and most of the population had not seen one. The War Savings Committee decided that six Mk.IV tanks would tour the country starting in December 1917 and throughout 1918 acting as ‘Tank Banks’ during celebrations known as ‘Tank Week.’ Companies and members of the public would be able to buy National War Bonds and War Savings Certificates from the cashier inside the door of the tank sponson. There were 20 shillings to the British Pound. For every 15s 6d (15 shillings and 6 pence: the minimum investment) invested in a War Savings Certificate, after five years, the government would pay back 20 shillings, an increase of 4s 6d (4 shillings and 6 pence). That is a 22.5% return. This was an attractive rate of return so many people and pension companies like the Provincial invested a lot of capital into War Savings Certificates and War Bonds (minimum investment £5). The War Bonds were sold to private investors in 1917 with the advertisement: “If you cannot fight, you can help your country by investing all you can in 5 per cent Exchequer Bonds … Unlike the soldier, the investor runs no risk.”
The six Mk.IV tanks were 113 Julian 4005, 119 Ole Bill, 130 Nelson, 137 Drake, 138 Iron Ration 4034, 141 Egbert and 142 also sometimes called Egbert although it never bore that name. Tank 141 Egbert was the only tank that had actually seen service in France. Other tanks were used. The top 256 fundraising towns and cities were offered a WW1 presentation tank as a thank you. Tanks Encyclopedia writer and researcher Craig Moore has researched and collected photographs of the Tank Week tank visits. If you find more photographs that are not in this collection, please send them to [email protected]
United Kingdom (1917-1918)
Finchley Replica Fund Raising Tank
Not all cities, towns and villages were lucky enough to receive visits by WW1 tanks for the fundraising. Some places built replica tanks to help their fundraising efforts. In March 1918, a replica tank was built and it visited several schools on the surrounding area around Finchley including Alder Christchurch and Martin.
In March 1918, this replica WW1 tank visited Manorside school in Squires lane, London N3 for fund raising purposes.
Tank Week
The British Government needed to raise money to pay for the war effort. The tank was a new technology, and most of the population had not seen one. The War Savings Committee decided that six Mk.IV tanks would tour the country starting in December 1917 and throughout 1918 acting as ‘Tank Banks’ during celebrations known as ‘Tank Week.’ Companies and members of the public would be able to buy National War Bonds and War Savings Certificates from the cashier inside the door of the tank sponson. There were 20 shillings to the British Pound. For every 15s 6d (15 shillings and 6 pence: the minimum investment) invested in a War Savings Certificate, after five years, the government would pay back 20 shillings, an increase of 4s 6d (4 shillings and 6 pence). That is a 22.5% return. This was an attractive rate of return so many people and pension companies like the Provincial invested a lot of capital into War Savings Certificates and War Bonds (minimum investment £5). The War Bonds were sold to private investors in 1917 with the advertisement: “If you cannot fight, you can help your country by investing all you can in 5 per cent Exchequer Bonds … Unlike the soldier, the investor runs no risk.”
The six Mk.IV tanks were 113 Julian 4005, 119 Ole Bill, 130 Nelson, 137 Drake, 138 Iron Ration 4034, 141 Egbert and 142 also sometimes called Egbert although it never bore that name. Tank 141 Egbert was the only tank that had actually seen service in France. Other tanks were used. The top 256 fundraising towns and cities were offered a WW1 presentation tank as a thank you. Tanks Encyclopedia writer and researcher Craig Moore has researched and collected photographs of the Tank Week tank visits. If you find more photographs that are not in this collection, please send them to [email protected]
On 5 March 1918 a WW1 tank 137 Drake visited Bermondsey as part of the National fundraising project called Tank Week. More information and hopefully some photographs will be added to this page following a trip to the archives in the future.
Tank Week
The British Government needed to raise money to pay for the war effort. The tank was a new technology, and most of the population had not seen one. The War Savings Committee decided that six Mk.IV tanks would tour the country starting in December 1917 and throughout 1918 acting as ‘Tank Banks’ during celebrations known as ‘Tank Week.’ Companies and members of the public would be able to buy National War Bonds and War Savings Certificates from the cashier inside the door of the tank sponson. There were 20 shillings to the British Pound. For every 15s 6d (15 shillings and 6 pence: the minimum investment) invested in a War Savings Certificate, after five years, the government would pay back 20 shillings, an increase of 4s 6d (4 shillings and 6 pence). That is a 22.5% return. This was an attractive rate of return so many people and pension companies like the Provincial invested a lot of capital into War Savings Certificates and War Bonds (minimum investment £5). The War Bonds were sold to private investors in 1917 with the advertisement: “If you cannot fight, you can help your country by investing all you can in 5 per cent Exchequer Bonds … Unlike the soldier, the investor runs no risk.”
The six Mk.IV tanks were 113 Julian 4005, 119 Ole Bill, 130 Nelson, 137 Drake, 138 Iron Ration 4034, 141 Egbert 2348 and 142 also sometimes called Egbert although it never bore that name. Tank 141 Egbert was the only tank that had actually seen service in France. Other tanks were used. The top 256 fundraising towns and cities were offered a WW1 presentation tank as a thank you. Tanks Encyclopedia writer and researcher Craig Moore has researched and collected photographs of the Tank Week tank visits. If you find more photographs that are not in this collection, please send them to [email protected]
United Kingdom (1917-1918)
Aberystwyth Tank Week, 113 Julian
Aberystwyth Tank Week, WW1 Mk.IV Male tank 113 Julian driving over a makeshift hill as part of a display on the sea front.
Aberystwyth Tank Week, 113 Julian acting as a Tank Bank with the sponson doors open.
Tank Week
The British Government needed to raise money to pay for the war effort. The tank was a new technology, and most of the population had not seen one. The War Savings Committee decided that six Mk.IV tanks would tour the country starting in December 1917 and throughout 1918 acting as ‘Tank Banks’ during celebrations known as ‘Tank Week.’ Companies and members of the public would be able to buy National War Bonds and War Savings Certificates from the cashier inside the door of the tank sponson. There were 20 shillings to the British Pound. For every 15s 6d (15 shillings and 6 pence: the minimum investment) invested in a War Savings Certificate, after five years, the government would pay back 20 shillings, an increase of 4s 6d (4 shillings and 6 pence). That is a 22.5% return. This was an attractive rate of return so many people and pension companies like the Provincial invested a lot of capital into War Savings Certificates and War Bonds (minimum investment £5). The War Bonds were sold to private investors in 1917 with the advertisement: “If you cannot fight, you can help your country by investing all you can in 5 per cent Exchequer Bonds … Unlike the soldier, the investor runs no risk.”
The six Mk.IV tanks were 113 Julian 4005, 119 Ole Bill, 130 Nelson, 137 Drake, 138 Iron Ration 4034, 141 Egbert and 142 also sometimes called Egbert although it never bore that name. Tank 141 Egbert was the only tank that had actually seen service in France. Other tanks were used. The top 256 fundraising towns and cities were offered a WW1 presentation tank as a thank you. Tanks Encyclopedia writer and researcher Craig Moore has researched and collected photographs of the Tank Week tank visits. If you find more photographs that are not in this collection, please send them to [email protected]
Cambrian News
A HUNDRED years ago this week, the people of Aberystwyth raised so much money for the war effort that it led to the town being presented with its very own military tank. As part of the centenary, looking back at the Great War, Archifdy Ceredigion Archives have been compiling a weekly blog of how the war effort affected people living in the county, with press clipping and photographs from the time. This week, 100 years ago, ‘the tank’ rolled into Aberystwyth and drew massive crowds. The Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Wales said that in a bid to raise money for the war effort, “several tanks were used at fundraising events all over Britain, to encourage people to purchase Government War Bonds and War Savings Certificates”. “The campaign pledged to present some of those towns that had ‘done their bit’ with a tank as a token of thanks,” a spokesperson said, “During one week in 1918, Aberystwyth raised an amazing £682,448, the second-highest total for the British Empire, coming second to Singapore.”
Archifdy Ceredigion Archives’ weekly blog also provides a fascinating insight into the lives of people living through war in Ceredigion. This week’s instalment, which can be viewed here, brings news of the death of Pvt Joseph Griffith of Llechryd and it is ascertained that Capt John Evans of Aberporth had been taken prisoner on the submarine which sank his ship. A photograph of Capt Geraint Davies appears in the newspaper. Capt Davies was mortally wounded near Neuve Eglise whilst Pvt William Jones of Tregaron was killed in action on 5 June. Notice of a memorial service to Pvt David Evans to be held in Llantrisant was also included. Pvt Evans was killed on 30 November. Pvt Tom Davies of New Quay was noted as being missing while Pvt Simon Jones of Aberporth was reported as being at home having been wounded in the big offensive in France.
In Aberystwyth, a concert was held in Skinner Street Mission Room to welcome Signaller David John Jones who has been in hospital. Mr Tibbott spoke for Signaller Jones as the latter has not yet regained his voice having been gassed. The headteacher of Borth school has been absent as he has had to appear before the medical board in Lampeter. Again in Lampeter, a conference was held regarding the calling-up of agriculturists of proclamation age, and in Aberystwyth, a meeting was held of the Agricultural Committee where, according to Mr Morgan, the Food Production Department was arranging for the supply of prisoners of war. Mr D J Morgan speaking in a meeting of the Tregaron War Agricultural Committee stated that Gartheli parish approached nearest to the quota of ploughing orders. Also in Tregaron, John Lewis, a labourer, was fined £2 having been charged with being an absentee. The money was to be handed over to the military authorities.
United Kingdom (1917-1918)
Aberdeen Tank Week, 113 Julian
The WW1 Mark IV Male Tank, home service number 113, named Julian, visited Aberdeen during Tank Week in January 1918
The 113 Julian the Tank Bank at the Mercat Cross, Aberdeen
Julian 113 at Union Street, Aberdeen
The speeches
The Lord Provost Taggart invested £50,000 for Aberdeen Corporation. The Chairman of the Scottish War Savings Committee, Lord Strathclyde said “The tank has brought home to us the necessity of saving all we can and lending all we can.” Lord Provost Taggart said, “We want your money not to continue, but end the war. Miss Findlay, Secretary of the War Savings Committee said “Bonds and Certificates are really weapons with which you can strike dismay into the hearts of the Germans.” The Aberdeen Tank Bank Week realized £2,501,000 or £15 6s 2d per person. “Tank” you! Dundee Tank week raised £4,400,000. The lesson the tank teaches us is the spirit of overcoming difficulties.” Patriotic men and women who cannot take active service or make munitions of war, can help their country in one way only at this Supreme Crisis. They must save all they can and lend all they can to their native land. Will you do this?” The Lord Provost Taggart invested £50,000 for Aberdeen Corporation
Tank Week
The British Government needed to raise money to pay for the war effort. The tank was a new technology, and most of the population had not seen one. The War Savings Committee decided that six Mk.IV tanks would tour the country starting in December 1917 and throughout 1918 acting as ‘Tank Banks’ during celebrations known as ‘Tank Week.’ Companies and members of the public would be able to buy National War Bonds and War Savings Certificates from the cashier inside the door of the tank sponson. There were 20 shillings to the British Pound. For every 15s 6d (15 shillings and 6 pence: the minimum investment) invested in a War Savings Certificate, after five years, the government would pay back 20 shillings, an increase of 4s 6d (4 shillings and 6 pence). That is a 22.5% return. This was an attractive rate of return so many people and pension companies like the Provincial invested a lot of capital into War Savings Certificates and War Bonds (minimum investment £5). The War Bonds were sold to private investors in 1917 with the advertisement: “If you cannot fight, you can help your country by investing all you can in 5 per cent Exchequer Bonds … Unlike the soldier, the investor runs no risk.”
The six Mk.IV tanks were 113 Julian 4005, 119 Ole Bill, 130 Nelson, 137 Drake, 138 Iron Ration 4034, 141 Egbert and 142 also sometimes called Egbert although it never bore that name. Tank 141 Egbert was the only tank that had actually seen service in France. Other tanks were used. The top 256 fundraising towns and cities were offered a WW1 presentation tank as a thank you. Tanks Encyclopedia writer and researcher Craig Moore has researched and collected photographs of the Tank Week tank visits. If you find more photographs that are not in this collection, please send them to [email protected]
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United Kingdom (1917-1918)
