This dramatic illustration, apparently a photograph, appeared in the Washington Times a hundred years ago today, September 20, 1914.

The picture was probably taken on August 23 at the Battle of Mons, Belgium. While the Germans ultimately forced a British retreat, the suffered heavy losses as they attempted to cross the Mons-Conde canal on pontoon bridges.  The ultimately successful Germans suffered over 5000 casualties, while the British defenders suffered 1638.