JHV 87 "The POW Violin"

JHV 87 (often referenced as JVH 87), known as "The POW Violin," is an instrument in the Violins of Hope collection that was handcrafted by a prisoner of war during World War II. Constructed between June 1940 and May 1945 using limited tools and improvised materials, it stands as a physical testament to human resilience and survival in captivity.

History and Origins

• Handmade in Captivity. An unknown prisoner of war built the violin under harsh conditions during World War II. Because standard luthiery supplies were unavailable, the maker relied on improvised materials and basic tools.

• Carved Inscription. The back of the instrument features hand-carved French lettering that reads, "26 Juin 1940 9 Mai 1945 Souvenir de captivité" (June 26, 1940 – May 9, 1945, Souvenir of captivity).

• Act of Resistance. According to Violins of Hope Wisconsin, creating and playing music behind barbed wire served as a lifeline and a quiet act of defiance that helped preserve humanity in the face of despair.