Welcome Home Our Gallant Boys
Unlike the recruiting and bond posters of the First World War, “Welcome Home Our Gallant Boys” looks toward the end of the war and the return of the men who fought it. Published by Hennegan & Co. of Cincinnati with a catalogue date of 1918, it turns the homecoming into a civic celebration.
What the poster shows
At the center stands Liberty in a white robe and cap, her arms raised and her hands holding laurel over the flags of the Allied nations, including Britain, France, the United States, Italy and Belgium. She stands on the globe, a sunburst glows behind her, and eagles crown the gilded frame. Across the bottom runs the motto PEACE – JUSTICE – LIBERTY.
A border of battles
The striped ribbons on each side turn military geography into a roll of honour. They name the places where Americans fought, including Cantigny, Château-Thierry, Belleau Wood, the Marne, St. Mihiel, St. Quentin and the Meuse-Argonne. The border connects the idealised figure of Liberty with the real battlefields that American servicemen had passed through.
The homecoming
After the Armistice of November 11, 1918, American divisions began returning from France, and through 1919 towns and cities across the country held parades and celebrations to welcome them. Posters like this one decorated homes, shop windows and halls for those occasions, and many were kept for years as family keepsakes.
The archival record
The Library of Congress catalogues the poster as a colour lithograph of about, published in Cincinnati by Hennegan & Co., with the advisory “No known restrictions on publication”.
The restored edition
Our edition was restored from an archival scan of an original print. Fading, stains and paper wear were repaired and the gold, red and blue brought back, keeping the fine lettering of the battle ribbons sharp. Drag the before and after slider on the product page to compare.
The restored poster is available as a paper print in three sizes or framed in black, white or natural wood, printed to order in the USA.
Frequently asked questions
Who published the Welcome Home Our Gallant Boys poster?
It was published by Hennegan & Co. of Cincinnati, Ohio. The Library of Congress gives it a date of 1918.
Who is the woman on the poster?
She is an allegorical figure of Liberty, shown in a white robe and liberty cap holding laurel over the flags of the Allied nations.
Which battles are named on the poster?
The side ribbons list American battles and campaigns including Cantigny, Château-Thierry, Belleau Wood, the Marne, St. Mihiel, St. Quentin and the Meuse-Argonne.
How big was the original poster?
About. Our restored edition is available up to 23.4 x 33.1 inches as a paper print and 23 x 33 inches framed.