Record Groups
Images
Metadata
Collection |
Robert Purcell Papers |
Object Name |
Collection |
Catalog Number |
RG-270 |
Dates of Creation |
1945 |
Extent of Description |
0.2 linear feet (1 box) |
Admin/Biographical History |
Robert Purcell was born in Pennsylvania on January 9, 1925. In 1943, he was drafted into the United States Army and assigned to the 48th Engineer Combat Battalion. The battalion fought through Italy and France before reaching Germany, clearing the way and building bridges for the troops behind them. They arrived at Dachau on May 1, 1945 to bear witness to the atrocities that had occurred there. After almost two years overseas, Robert returned to the United States in December 1945 and was discharged shortly thereafter. |
Copyrights |
No restrictions on use. |
Language of Material |
English |
Scope & Content |
The Robert Purcell Papers focus primarily on what Robert witnessed at Dachau just days after its liberation. These papers include photographs. Folder 1 contains donation material including an inventory of the collection. Folder 2 includes several prints of photographs of Dachau, possibly taken by Robert himself. Folder 3 has Robert's discharge paperwork from the Army. |
Subjects |
United States. Army. United States. Army. Engineer Combat Battalion, 48th. Dachau (Concentration Camp) |
Imagefile |
003\RG270.JPG |