The “Cross in Iron” initiative was organized by the War Welfare Bureau [Kriegsfürsorge], a state-run program in support of the families of the war dead and war invalids. A cross of about 9 feet was built into which potential donors could hammer black or silver nails sold at the price of 1 to 20 Marks. A total of 85 000 nails were on sale.
Darmstadt, April 23, 1915
The Cross in Iron
To our Fellow Citizens,
I would hereby like to request your enthusiastic support in this patriotic enterprise for the benefit of the families of the fallen and the war invalids by using the hammer in great numbers. Please participate in order to achieve the goal we set for ourselves. Sincerely --- Dr. Glässing, Mayor
Darmstadt, April 15, 1915
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