The West Flanders province in Belgium is less than the land area of Pickens and Oconee counties combined, yet it was in this small area that British forces alone suffered more combat deaths in the First World War than did the United States in all of the Second World War. In this presentation we will visit some of the military cemeteries, monuments, memorials and museums that distinguish the area as one of the most dreadful killing fields in the world. We will also virtually sample some of the region’s gastronomic treats, including Flemish stew, mussels and fries, cheese and beer.

For 14 years Stephen Wainscott led a month-long study abroad program to Belgium where students learned about the First World War and visited numerous military sites in the West Flanders region and in France. He has also led a senior group on a tour of the area.