![[The Talking Machine Forum - For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings]](/styles/we_universal/theme/images/the_talking_machine_forum.png)
“In order to make a special contribution to the comfort, the welfare, and the safety of our gallant troops when they go to France, the Victor Company recently ordered the preparation of a practical course in French, which should be sufficient for immediate needs, which would serve as a working basis for further development, and instead of costing $10.00 or $50.00 can sell at $2.50. This has been done and such a Special Course in French has just been prepared.
The records are supplied in complete sets of three records in a special waterproof container. With each set two booklets are provided which give in type all that is given verbally by the records. This is done so that the spoken French may be the more closely associated with the printed words, and so become more definitely fixed in the mind.
The six sides of the three double faced records are devoted to phrases pertaining to 1. getting around town or country, 2. food and lodging, 3. purchases and numbers, 4. campaigning, 5. getting acquainted, 6. additional vocabulary. The method of using these records for study purposes is very exceedingly simple. In every case the English phrase or word precedes the French. So there is no chance for confusion and all that is necessary to play the records in usual way, following the phrases along in the booklet, and saying the French words and phrases over and over as they are given out by the records.”
This is a complete set of the records, booklets, and original (yet weathered) waterproof packaging of one of the hardest to find 78 Victor record sets from WWI. This set came out in 1917. The waterproof packaging does not hold up well and is "less than stellar" but it displays like a million bucks - the records are in relatively good shape. Both original accompanying booklets are included. They are in excellent shape except for some foxing (looks like this package has stayed together since the war.
Victors were used both stateside in military training camps (YMCAs, classroom, etc) and were also carried to the front. Before anyone disagrees
- I have entries from a Yankee Division (26th Division) ambulance soldiers diary specifically mentioning the unit's “Victrola” they had with them on the front lines. It is entirely possible record sets such as this one were used in France as well as the United States. Price includes shipping and I have many pictures I can send!
