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Title: Historic WWI American Expeditionary Forces (AEF) Correspondence Archive – PVT Naldo C. Steenhoek (Co. F, 350th Infantry Regiment, 88th Division)
Overview:
Up for sale is a remarkable, cohesive collection of original World War I military letters written by and to Private Naldo C. Steenhoek of Pella/Reasnor, Iowa. Private Steenhoek was a documented combat infantryman who was officially cited for gallantry in action by the Commanding General of the AEF.
Unlike fragmented letter lots, this archive offers a complete, highly desirable narrative arc tracing a Midwestern soldier’s entire wartime experience from domestic training to frontline combat, a combat injury, and hospital recovery.
Key Archive Highlights:
Training Period:
Letters detailing his time at Camp Dodge, Iowa, before shipping out to the Western Front in August 1918.
Combat & Wounded Status: Letters spanning his deployment to France, including his unit’s action in the Center Sector (Haute-Alsace) and his subsequent wounding in action.
Incredible Nov. 12, 1918 "Armistice Day" Letter: Features a historic, deeply moving letter written the exact day after the war ended, detailing the raw emotions and the moment his entire hospital ward erupted in cheers upon hearing the news of the Armistice.
Condition:
The envelopes feature rare 3-cent George Washington war-rate stamps and crisp Reasnor, IA postmarks. The handwritten contents remain highly legible. The paper shows expected age-toned patina, minor edge wear, and handling marks consistent with 100+ year-old battlefield and hospital correspondence. Please see high-resolution photos for exact condition.
An incredible addition for serious WWI researchers, militaria collectors, or Iowa state history enthusiasts. Ships securely to protect historical integrity.
