This postcard provides a fascinating glimpse into the British military’s postal activities in Egypt during the immediate post-World War I period. Sent from Kantara, a critical location along the Suez Canal, it showcases not only the importance of the region but also the pivotal role played by the Army Post Office in facilitating communication between military personnel and their loved ones back home.
The Postcard Details:
- Date of Sending: 18 April 1919
- Postmark: Army Post Office – Suez
- Destination: Addressed to E.W. Gill Esq. in Bedford Park, London, England.
- Publisher: “The Cairo Post-Card Trust” – Series 619, depicting the iconic scene of the Suez Canal at Kantara, featuring a sailing ship and local activities along the canal banks.
Historical Context:
Kantara (modern-day Al-Qantarah) was a key logistics and supply base for the British forces during World War I. Located on the eastern edge of the Suez Canal, it served as a hub for operations in the Middle Eastern theatre, including campaigns in Palestine and Mesopotamia. After the war, its strategic importance persisted as British forces maintained a presence to safeguard this vital maritime artery.
The postcard’s sender references the surroundings and mentions ongoing postal and logistical activities, indicating Kantara’s continued role as a bustling centre of military administration even in the post-war era.
Notable Postmark:
The clear “Army Post Office – Suez” cancellation adds philatelic significance to the item. Such postmarks were used by the British military to ensure efficient mail handling in active operational zones. The markings also reveal a censorship stamp, emphasizing the controlled nature of wartime and immediate post-war correspondence.
Visual and Philatelic Appeal:
The vibrant depiction of Kantara along the Suez Canal contrasts sharply with the stark military operations that characterized the region. The scene illustrates daily life along the canal banks, with camels, locals, and ships, reflecting the coexistence of military and civilian activities in this pivotal location.
This postcard not only serves as a piece of personal correspondence but also acts as a historical artifact, capturing a moment in time when the British Empire’s influence extended across key global chokepoints like the Suez Canal. It remains a significant collectible for both philatelists and those interested in military and postal history.