Pair of Early Postcards Depicting the Memorial to Captain William Leefe Robinson VC

Pair of Early Postcards Depicting the Memorial to Captain William Leefe Robinson VC

A fascinating pair of original early twentieth-century postcards depicting the memorial erected to Captain William Leefe Robinson VC, one of Britain’s most celebrated Royal Flying Corps pilots of the First World War.

These postcards illustrate the memorial at Cuffley, Hertfordshire, commemorating the remarkable actions of Captain Robinson, who became a national hero after shooting down the German Schütte-Lanz SL11 airship during the night of 2–3 September 1916. His victory marked the first successful destruction of a German airship over British soil and was a turning point in Britain’s defence against the airship raids that had terrorised civilians.

Historical Background

Flying a Royal Aircraft Factory B.E.2c with No. 39 Squadron, Lieutenant William Leefe Robinson engaged the German airship after a prolonged night patrol over southern England. Using newly developed incendiary ammunition, he succeeded in setting the airship ablaze, causing it to crash near Cuffley. His courage and determination earned him the Victoria Cross, making him the first airman to receive Britain’s highest award for gallantry for an action fought over British soil.

Following the war, a granite memorial was erected close to the crash site through public subscription by readers of the Daily Express. Unveiled in 1921, the monument remains one of Britain’s best-known First World War aviation memorials and is today protected as a Grade II Listed Monument.

Item Details
Original early postcards
Both depicting the Captain William Leefe Robinson VC Memorial
Location: Cuffley, Hertfordshire
First World War aviation interest
Excellent historical display pieces
Original period printing
Condition

Both postcards are presented in good original condition with expected age-related wear consistent with early twentieth-century paper ephemera.

Please examine the accompanying photographs carefully as they form part of the description.

Collectability

Items connected with Captain William Leefe Robinson VC are highly sought after by collectors of:

Royal Flying Corps memorabilia
Early military aviation
First World War ephemera
Zeppelin and airship history
Victoria Cross memorabilia
Historic postcards

This attractive pair offers an opportunity to own original period images commemorating one of the defining moments of Britain’s aerial defence during the First World War.