February 8th | Lockets of Love

The History of Lockets, Hair Keepsakes, and Love in Times of War

By Cynthia Kirkeby

In an age where digital photos and instant messaging dominate, the deeply personal tradition of keeping a loved one’s image or lock of hair in a locket may feel like a relic of the past. However, this intimate practice, deeply rooted in human history, carried immense emotional weight—especially during times of war.

The Locket as a Symbol of Love and Memory

Lockets, small compartments worn close to the heart, have been used as keepsakes for centuries. They reached their peak of popularity during the Victorian era when they often held miniaturized portraits, inscriptions, or even tiny relics of the deceased. But it was in the 20th century, during the heartache and uncertainty of global conflict, that the locket became a lifeline for millions separated by war.

During World War II, soldiers carried these keepsakes to feel a connection with their loved ones while serving far from home. A photograph of a spouse, child, or sweetheart tucked into a locket wasn’t just an accessory; it was a reminder of what awaited them, a talisman of hope, and often the thing that kept them alive.

Locks of Hair: A Sentimental Keepsake

The tradition of preserving a lock of hair inside a locket was considered even more intimate. A strand of hair was a tangible memento—an actual piece of a loved one, imbued with their physical essence. This practice flourished during the 19th century and endured through World War II, particularly among young couples and families.

In wartime, soldiers and their partners exchanged locks of hair as a mutual pledge. Hair was often braided, tied with ribbon, or crafted into intricate designs before being placed in a locket. This act of giving something so personal symbolized permanence during a time when everything was uncertain.

A Physical Lifeline

The prolonged separations caused by war intensified the emotional importance of keepsakes. A soldier might touch his locket before battle or take solace in it during moments of despair, feeling closer to the person waiting at home. Families left behind would do the same, clutching their lockets as they prayed for their loved one’s safe return.

Beyond individual sentiment, these mementos also served as symbols of resilience. They represented the bonds between those on the front lines and the home front, reminding both groups of what they were fighting for.

Modern Reflections on a Timeless Tradition

While the advent of technology has changed how people stay connected, the sentimental appeal of lockets and hair keepsakes has not vanished. Lockets continue to evoke the same depth of feeling as they did decades ago, although now they are often handed down as heirlooms. They remind us that during the darkest periods of history, small gestures of love and remembrance provided immense strength to those who carried them.

In revisiting the stories of those who clutched a locket during war, we find a timeless truth: no matter the era, the desire to hold on to love—literally and figuratively—remains a deeply human instinct. Whether it takes the form of a photograph, a strand of hair, or even a digital image today, such tokens affirm that love is not bound by distance or time.