Dope. A Magazine for Making Merry (Published by the 39th Training Depot Station, Spittlegate, Royal Air Force)
London: printed and published by the Morgan Reeve Company, Goldsmith Street, 1919. Four issues of the magazine, each measuring 250 x 187 mm., all with the original printed colour wrappers. Condition variable. Basically, two issues thumbed and well-read, one with covers detached; the other two issues are well-preserved. A scarce and desirable relic of the Royal Air Force in the First World War, being the light-hearted review magazine of the Spittlegate training depot. These four issues follow the signing of the Armistice on November 11, 1918, and the overall purpose of the publication was to foster camaraderie and good relations between men from across the Commonwealth (and a good measure of American airmen too). As such, the intended audience lists English, Scots, Welsh, Irish, Canadians, New Zealanders, South Africans and Yankees.
Undeniably English in tone, yet imbued with the risqué and cavalier mood following the end of a grim and depressing war, "Dope" comprises sketches, caricatures, theatrical reviews, potted biographies of officers and other identities, contributions by the Padre, and more. Of special interest are the football results and write-ups, including Spittlegate versus 876 Company, A.S.C., and Spittlegate versus Cranwell. Unsurprisingly, the advertisements are pitched to airmen, and include uniforms, flying apparel, and accoutrements. Item #2358
Price (AUD): $450.00