"An unexpected connection with history..." Topic

Well, I ordered a book from Amazon, which arrived yesterday.

The first thing I noticed was that it had scribblings and additions, which bearing in mind this had not been noted made me slightly cross. Then I looked in more detail…

The first thing was that the map had been defaced: someone had inked over the track of HMS Vigilant in red pen…

I was ready to send it back, but then I noticed these in the front pages:

A photocopy of a first day cover from the Royal Mail marking the action, and a postcard of HMS Vigilant, glued into the book. Then, all became clear:

So, from what seemed to be a defaced copy of a book turned out to be a priceless item, touched by someone who fought in the very action it described and something I will now treasure.

Thank you, D Stoneham, and here's to the memory of all those who fought a courageous and successful action.

Nick

Thank you for sharing. That is a lucky find.

Glad to see that book found its way to the hands of someone who will honor it as it deserves.

Very special and even more so, because of your honorable appreciation. Happy for you and thankful for you sharing.

Try to track down the service history of D. Stoneham. This will verify he was member of this crew and involved in the battle. Photographs and other information will help.

Then with all that information, have the book appraised by a professional book appraiser. Even if you don't plan to sell it, all that information will be a great archive to have.

I'm jealous!

BTW, I bet that would make a GREAT tabletop scenario. Has anyone here done it?

B

It's on my 'to do' list, Blutarski!

It's the reason I ordered the book in the first place and have also put in an order with Navwar for the ships.

I'll let you know how I get on :)