WW1 Postcard Houthulst Forest 1914–18 – West-Roosebeke Road Battlefield Scene (Belgium)

Product Description

An authentic First World War postcard depicting the devastated landscape of Houthulst Forest (Forêt d’Houthulst) in Belgium, along the West-Roosebeke Road.

The image shows a haunting battlefield scene: a shattered forest of broken tree trunks, makeshift wooden structures, and a muddy road cutting through the destruction. The once dense woodland has been completely destroyed by artillery fire, leaving behind a stark and desolate environment typical of the Western Front.

This card was produced as part of wartime or immediate post-war documentation, capturing the aftermath of fighting in this strategically important area of Flanders.

Historic Background

Houthulst Forest was heavily contested during the World War I, particularly in the later stages of the war. The forest formed part of the German defensive lines north of Ypres and was subjected to intense artillery bombardments.

By 1917–1918, the area had been almost completely destroyed, as seen in this image. The shattered trees and ruined landscape are typical of the fighting during the Third Battle of Ypres, where relentless shelling turned forests and farmland into wasteland

CONDITION

• Original period postcard (not a reproduction)

• Postally used: No

• Writing on backside: No

• Stamp present: No

• Corners: Light wear

• Surface: Light age toning

Please see photos for detailed condition.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Country: Belgium

• Year: 1918-1925

• Publisher unknown

• Type: Printed lithograph

• Dimensions: Approx. 14x9cm

• Era: First World War

SHIPPING

• Carefully packed in protective sleeve

Combined shipping available