'National Souvenir of Peace 1919'

This souvenir book was published by the Wellington Peace Celebrations Committee on 8 July 1919, and is an example of immediate post-First World War propaganda. The book includes photographs, text and maps on the various campaigns New Zealand was involved in during the First World War. Other communities published similar booklets or brochures outlining the country's war record.

The illustrator, one Mr Kelly, won a design competition for the cover of the souvenir. His image features a soldier waving a Union Jack flag from the coast, with the sea behind him and a rising sun with 'Peace' above. The Allied flags decorate the top. The female figures of Victory and Liberty flank the image. The four main leaders, with quotes, surround the image: M. Clemenceau, H.M. The King, President Wilson, and Lloyd George.

According to L.S. Fanning, the editor of the book, the change of the date of the first day of the peace celebrations to 19 July created difficulties for the printers,  photo engravers and editor. In his preface, he describes it a 'rush order' and warns readers that they might notice defects in the text.