A recent discovery by French archaeologists revealed the remains of an American hospital from World War I in the town of Savenay, located in the region of Pays de la Loire in northwestern France. The hospital was built to provide medical care for American soldiers without relying on French hospitals and was part of a network of hospital structures across France. The first “sammies,” or American soldiers, arrived in France in June 1917, and the hospital was strategically placed near the ports of Nantes and Saint-Nazaire for easy access to main French rail lines.
The excavated site revealed a variety of artifacts including medical bottles, combs, buttons, a smoking pipe, a medical clamp, a razor, a watch case, cups, and a pair of shoes. The site was divided into two parts, a fenced area protecting the hospital and 20 “dump pits” containing construction waste and artifacts. Evidence of a water pipe network providing clean water was also found, showing that the hospital complex was like a “real autonomous city” with its own sewer networks and sometimes even its own railway service.
The archaeological excavation provided valuable insight into the functioning of American hospital complexes during World War I, showcasing the homogeneity of the dump pits and the construction waste found within them. The project included an educational component for high school students to learn about preventive archaeology, and the exhibition about the project is scheduled to be unveiled soon. The National Institute for Preventive Archaeological Research (INRAP) used the dig as an opportunity to explore numerous research perspectives related to the site.
The discovery sheds light on the significant role played by American hospitals in France during World War I, as part of an effort to provide medical care to injured and sick soldiers. The network of hospital structures built across the country served as vital centers for healthcare and recovery, with the recently-excavated site offering a glimpse into the daily lives and activities of those involved in the medical treatment of American soldiers. The findings contribute to our understanding of the historical context and the impact of World War I on the healthcare system.
Pictures published by INRAP show the variety of artifacts found at the site, highlighting the material culture of the hospital complex and the daily life of its inhabitants. The excavation revealed a rich archaeological deposit with a range of objects that offer insight into the medical practices, personal belongings, and living conditions of those involved in the hospital operations. The exhibition showcasing the project will provide further details and interpretations of the archaeological findings, allowing the public to learn more about this fascinating discovery in Savenay, France.
