Original 1917 German Occupation of Belgium Poster – Commune of Seraing – WW1 Wall Poster – Dated 5 May 1917

An original and highly interesting French-language municipal poster issued during the German occupation of Belgium in the First World War, dated 5 May 1917 and originating from the Commune of Seraing, Belgium.

This official public notice was issued under the authority of the Mayor of Seraing during the German occupation and concerns regulations relating to barbed wire fencing, specifically warning residents against its removal from hedges and boundaries due to safety concerns and deterioration caused by rust.

Printed during one of the most difficult periods of the occupation, this poster offers a fascinating insight into the day-to-day administration and practical problems faced by Belgian communities under German rule.

Details
Original municipal wall poster
Commune of Seraing, Belgium
French language text
Dated 5 May 1917
Period: First World War
Issued during the German occupation of Belgium
Official mayoral notice
Paper format
Historical Background

Following the German invasion of Belgium in August 1914, much of the country remained under German occupation until late 1918. Local municipalities continued to issue public notices and regulations dealing with everyday civic matters under the supervision of the occupation authorities. ()

This poster concerns the maintenance and preservation of barbed wire barriers and hedgerows, reflecting the widespread use of defensive and agricultural wire during wartime conditions. Such notices were commonly displayed in public places to inform local residents of municipal regulations and responsibilities.

Original occupation-period posters from Belgian communes are increasingly difficult to find, particularly those bearing specific dates and local government origins.

Condition

Good original condition for age.

Expected signs of age, handling, folds, edge wear and minor imperfections consistent with a paper document over 100 years old.

Please study photographs carefully as they form part of the description.

Collectability
Original WW1 occupation document
Dated 5 May 1917
Commune of Seraing provenance
French-language municipal issue
Strong historical and display appeal
Ideal for collectors of:
WW1 militaria
Belgian history
Occupation memorabilia
Historical posters
Paper ephemera
Display

An excellent candidate for framing and display, particularly alongside WW1 Belgian, German occupation, or civilian home-front collections.