Jack Peirs

Jack Peirs is a remarkable digital history project hosted by Gettysburg College, dedicated to preserving the letters of H.J.C. Peirs, a British officer who served valiantly in the 8th Battalion, The Queen’s (Royal West Surrey) Regiment during World War I. Over three years on the Western Front, Peirs witnessed numerous harrowing battles and ascended from Lieutenant to Lieutenant-Colonel, earning prestigious honors, including the Distinguished Service Order and a Companion of the Order of St. Michael and St. George.

This project provides a unique window into history, featuring a detailed archive of Peirs' letters sent home to his family, which will be released on the centennial of their writing. The content serves as a valuable resource for researchers and educators, enhancing our understanding of life during the war. Users are encouraged to engage with the project through social media and educational tools, sharing insights and furthering discussions about the letters' historical significance. Jack Peirs stands as a testament to personal narratives that shaped our collective memory of the Great War.