The attack on Gavrelle trench – source 2

Source 2a

Source 2b

Sources 2a and 2b are maps annotated with details about the attack which were found amongst the papers of Lt-Col Lowe. Take a close look at them (it would probably help to use the enlarged versions) and then answer the questions below.

1. Look at source 2a. What is the title of this map? What do you think the map is showing?

2. Find the following on the map:
– Windmill
– Windmill Maze
– Gavrelle Trench
Where do you think the British Commanders expected the heaviest fighting to be? Why do you think this?

3. What information is missing from this map that British officers might have found useful?

4. Now look at Source 2b. What is the title of this map? What do you think it is showing?

5. What do the following abbreviations and/or terms mean?
– MG Nest
– Concrete empl
– CO
– Covered Trench
Why might these have been marked on the map?

6. How useful do you think this map was?

7. Do these maps tell you anything about (a) the attack on Gavrelle Trench and (b) trench warfare in general?

Finished? Move on to look at an account of the attack written shortly after it took place.