The History of the 51st (Highland) Division 1914-1918

"The History of the 51st (Highland) Division 1914-1918" by F. W. Bewsher is a historical account written in the early 20th century. This work chronicles the experiences of the 51st (Highland) Division during World War I, detailing their mobilization, training, and battles from their initial formation to the end of the war. It focuses on the division's bravery and the challenges they faced on the Western Front. The opening of the work describes the foundation of the Highland Division, detailing their initial training in Bedford, England, and highlights the camaraderie between the soldiers and local citizens. The text goes on to emphasize the difficulties the division encountered, including equipment shortages and disease, while also illustrating the support they received from the townspeople. Bewsher, drawing on both personal experience as a Brigade Major and external accounts, sets the stage for the subsequent battles and operations that the division would undertake in France, establishing a backdrop of hope, resilience, and the harsh realities of war.