The Tunnellerss of Holzminden, H.G. Darnford. Penguin Books. 1940, paperback

Title: The Tunnellers of Holzminden

Author: H. G. Durnford, M.C.

Publisher: Penguin Books

Series: Penguin Main Series No. 286

Year of Penguin Edition: 1940

Pages: Approximately 160 (varies slightly by edition)

The Tunnellers of Holzminden is a non-fiction account of a remarkable World War I prison escape from the German POW camp at Holzminden in July 1918. The author, H. G. Durnford (a Royal Navy officer and recipient of the Military Cross), was himself a prisoner at Holzminden. Although he did not escape, he was closely associated with the effort and interviewed the participants extensively after the event.

The book describes the meticulous planning and physical hardship involved in constructing a tunnel over nine months beneath the camp. The escape route stretched over 60 feet beyond the wire, dug in secrecy using makeshift tools and maintained under the constant threat of discovery.

Twenty-nine men eventually escaped through the tunnel, though only ten reached freedom. Durnford provides detailed descriptions of daily camp life, the character of the men involved, the engineering of the tunnel itself, and the tension that built up as the escape drew near.

Holzminden was a notorious officers’ camp run by Commandant Karl Niemeyer, known for his harsh regime. The escape is one of the most famous of the First World War, often compared to later WWII events like the “Great Escape” at Stalag Luft III.

Durnford’s narrative is notable for its factual precision, lack of romanticism, and restrained tone. It offers a close perspective on ingenuity, discipline, and solidarity among captured soldiers under extreme conditions.

Ref: (127) (V, T)