Guards of the Republic - In Palace of Versailles during treaty signing

Guards of the Republic - In Palace of Versailles during treaty signing

Guards of the Republic, Palace of Versailles

18779

One of the picturesque features of the ceremony attending the signing of the Peace Treaty was the presence of a portion of the Guard Republicaine in their picturesque uniform. This organization dates back to the time of the French Revolution, and because of its connection with this historic event and of its services at the time, it still has a place in the hearts of the people. The organization has been maintained through the passing years, and visitors in Paris at this day are often surprised to see a squad of stalwart men in steel helmets with horsetail plumes riding selected chargers along the boulevards. The Guards carry long, heavy, slightly curved swords and make an imposing appearance. They are present at the signing of the Peace Treaty as one of the recognized institutions of the French government, as, similarly, were American doughboys and British Tommies, representatives of the part played by their comrades and by their governments on many a desperate battlefield in the war just won. Present officially, also, were a few aged veterans of the Franco-Prussian war, as guards of honor. The Guards before us are an athletic group of men selected with care from many candidates. The room is one of those in the magnificent Palace of Versailles, built by Louis the Grand. We notice paneled walls, tapestry, priceless paintings in gorgeous frames ; artistic ornaments—the luxury for which the last French kings were famous, and which through the taxes it fastened on the people finally brought about the downfall of the monarchy.

1 stereograph : b&w

1 gelatine silver print stereograph (8 x 15 cm) mounted on card (9 x 18 cm)

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