Beaumont Hamel, France – A recent study on a World War I crater known as the Hawthorn Ridge has shed light on a significant strategic blunder made by the British during the Battle of the Somme. The explosion of the mine at Hawthorn Ridge on July 1, 1916, was captured on film and marked the beginning of the battle. The detonation occurred 10 minutes before schedule, giving the Germans time to prepare defensive positions, ultimately causing heavy losses among the British troops.
In a groundbreaking multi-disciplinary scientific investigation published in the Journal of Conflict Archaeology, researchers, scientists, and historians from Keele University used cutting-edge technology to uncover new insights into the crater’s history and the German defensive strategies. The team excavated trenches, recovered communication wire and barbed wire, and found evidence of a shallow tunnel dug out by German forces. This discovery highlighted how the Germans effectively incorporated the crater into their defenses, turning it into a strategic advantage.
Exclusive access to the site was granted to the research team by the Hawthorn Ridge Crater Association, allowing for a detailed study of the area. The association, established as a Franco-British organization dedicated to preserving the site, facilitated the investigation by clearing the area for research.
The study also revealed the impact of subsequent explosions, particularly a second mine detonation that aided the Highland Division in capturing the ridge and nearby village of Beaumont Hamel. By pinpointing the locations of the explosions, the researchers were able to map out the epicenters of the blasts, the boundaries of the craters, and the defensive positions taken by the Germans post-explosion.
Dr. Kris Wisniewski, a lecturer in Forensic Science at Keele University, emphasized the significance of the scientific study on the historically important crater. Using various scientific methods and drones with imaging cameras, the researchers were able to uncover new details about the German occupation of the crater and their mastery of No Man’s Land.
The findings of the study provide a deeper understanding of the events that unfolded at Hawthorn Ridge during the Battle of the Somme and highlight the crucial role of timing in warfare. The meticulous investigation offers valuable insights into the adaptive tactics used by the Germans and contributes to our knowledge of trench warfare dynamics, ultimately enhancing our understanding of this pivotal moment in history.