Historical information

This case was used by Captain Charles Arblaster, a graduate of the Royal Military College Duntroon, who served with the 8th Light Horse Regiment at Gallipoli where he was wounded and evacuated to the United Kingdom for treatment. He returned to Egypt and transferred to the 53rd Infantry Battalion and proceeded to the Western Front where he was wounded and taken prisoner of war at Fromelles on 20 July 1916 and died of wounds four days later. He was aged 21. His personal effects were returned to his family in this case. His diary was transcribed by Doug Hunter in 1997 and the original returned to the donor.

Significance

A rare example of an officer's trunk used in WWI. It is well provenanced and of particular significance to his family, it being the case in which his personal effects were returned following his death. It is in good condition considering its age and travel history.

Physical description

Suitcase of pasteboard with jute fabric facing, wood and metal external protection strips, leather corner protectors, leather handle on each end, two metal locks and leather security strap. Case has internal lift-out tray and ribbon letter rack on inside of lid. Lined throughout with fabric. Case was used as an officer's trunk by Captain Charles Arblaster 8th Light Horse Regiment.

Inscriptions & markings

Stencilled on lid "C Arblaster"