❅ Part of the KB41 Collection Fröhliche Weihnachten series - 2022 Edition ❆
The photograph here shows Heer Infanteries in front of Bahnhofsgebäude (Station building) in Poznań, a date is unknown but as seen in the photograph it is taken around the Christmas period, sometime in December and likely after the occupation. Therefore it could be the first Weihnachten celebrated in Poznań in 1939, therefore could be sometime taken within December 1939. Poznań is located in Western Poland, upon occupation Poznań was incorporated under the Reich as a part of lebensraum. The city of Poznań was also made the capital of Reichsgau Wartheland.
The photograph is taken facing the stunning architecture of the Poznań Bahnhofsgebäude, seen detailed with its large arch windows and horse shoe arched entrance to match. The Bahnhofsgebäude also feature a clock at the top which tells the time for civilians and Soldaten alike when in the area. The Bahnhofsgebäude would likely be a busy and lively atmosphere with many people travelling via train throughout Poland. There is also some vehicles that can be seen outside the Bahnhofsgebäude, these are likely staff cars that officers have arrived in. Now under German 0ccupation the Poznań train station as seen here would also be busy with those of the NSDAP and Wehrmacht, as many would use this station for local and further travel with the expanding Reich. It was common for Soldaten to pose for photographs outside landmarks and buildings on their travels to capture memories of their time in the area. It is possible that these Infanteries are either passing through or station nearby to this station, as can be seen in the background there is a larger congregation of Heer Soldaten.
The Poznań Bahnhofsgebäude is also detailed with Blutfahne's that hang in between the windows of the building. The Bahnhofsgebäude is also detailed with another banner that runs along the entrance that reads " Deutsche Weihnachten" (German Christmas). This denoting that Germany is celebrating Christmas whilst in occupied Poland. There is also a Christmas tree present that can be seen erected in the centre below the clock. Just like the building and surrounds the tree is dusted with snow. The Infanteries seen here enjoying the full extent of a Weisse Weihnachten (White Christmas), as they are seen standing in and around the Bahnhofsgebäude in their greatcoats. The Infanteries seen standing closest in shot are wearing greatcoats with M36 side caps and belts on. The Kameraden stand smartly dressed posing for their Weihnachten photograph. This photograph would serve as a memory for the Infanteries time spent in Occupied Poland, a memoir of their time outside the detailed architectural building of the Poznań Bahnhofsgebäude. In addition to what is likely their first time in an occupied country during their service. A photograph that could be sent home, their families would hold onto and proud of their service whilst remembering and missing them at Christmas.