Castle Acre 1914 - 18 Askew to Sculpher

With grateful acknowledgement to the Roll of Honour site, which provided the starting point for the information below. All information sourced from there is shown as (RoH)

www.roll-of-honour.com/Norfolk/CastleAcre.html

 

Ernest James Archer……………………………….......................................(RoH)

Private 32609. 7th Battalion East Surrey Regiment. Killed in action in France & Flanders on 20th November 1917. Aged 35. Born North Pickenham, Norfolk. Enlisted London. Son of James Tertius Archer and Sarah Ann Archer, of Castle Acre, Swaffham, Norfolk; husband of Ethel Elizabeth Archer, of "Olives, Shrewsbury Rd., Red Hill, Surrey. Commemorated: Cambrai Memorial, Louverval, Nord, France. Panel 6.

CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=1750838

 

No match on Norlink

 

There is no apparent match for an Ernest Archer of the right age or with a Norfolk connection on the Genes Re-united transcription of the 1901 Census for England and Wales. There is however a James and Sarah Ann Archer recorded at Bailey Street, Castle Acre. James is aged 45 and a Prudential Assurance Agent from Great Cressingham, while Sarah Ann is aged 47 and is from Saham Toney. The children recorded as living with them are Edgar Robert, (aged 14 and a Telegraph Messenger for the Post Office, born Ashill), Edwin George, (aged 10 and born Castle Acre), and Eleanor Hannah, (aged 4 and born Castle Acre).

 

On the high level search of the 1911 census, there is an Ernest of the right age born “ L Pickering” and now recorded in the Strand registration district.

 

The battalion took part in the battle of Cambrai, advancing from Gonnelieu through La Vacquerie on the 20th November. They were driven back on the 30th by the German counter-attack

1914-1918.invisionzone.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=116... 1917 surreys&fromsearch=1entry1111687

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_Cambrai_(1917)

 

Henry James Askew DCM………………………………...................(RoH)

Serjeant 38229. 9th Battalion Norfolk Regiment. Killed in action in France & Flanders on 15th April 1918. Aged 36. Born Weasenham, Norfolk. Enlisted Norwich. Son of the late John and Emily Askew; husband of Mary Ann Askew, of 75, Pales Green, Castle Acre, King's Lynn, Norfolk. Awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal. Commemorated: Tyne Cot Memorial, Zonnebeke, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium. Panel 34 to 35 and 162A.

CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=846448

 

No match on Norlink

 

Henry James is recorded on the 1901 Census as James. He is aged 19, born Weasenham and employed as an Agricultural Labourer. His address is just recorded as Weasenham. This is the household of his parents, John, (aged 47 and an Agricultural Labourer from East Dereham), and Frances, (aged 44 and from Weasenham). Their other cildren are:-

Anthony………………………aged 13.……………….born Weasenham

Charles……………………………aged 2 …………………born Weasenham

Herbert…………………………..aged 7.………………..born Weasenham

William…………………………..aged 10.……………….born weasenham

 

The 9th were moved to the Ypres salient on April 1st 1918 and moved to Dranoute on the 14th.

 

" Next day D and A companies were in front line, C in support and B in reserve. Arrangements had been made for C to counter attack if necessary but it's losses owing to the continuous heavy bombardment commencing at noon on the 15th necessitated B taking it's place as the counter attack force. At 2.30pm on the 15th the enemy advanced and by 3pm had gained a foothold in the front trenches. From these he was once again driven out by B company. Although B held the line and formed a defensive flank they were eventually themselves driven out due to their exposed position.

Line was then formed along the railway with the Ist Leicesters on their left at Clapham Junction. At 10.30pm they were moved back behind Mt Kemmel before being pulled out of line on the 18th.

This was after the 9th had been badly cut up a month before holding the masive German onslaught of the 21st March. Here they had fought a strong rearguard action before being moved out of line to for a refit in Sixte near Proven on the 26th.

 

1914-1918.invisionzone.com/forums/lofiversion/index.php/t...

 

Bernard Beck MC……………………………….........................................(RoH)

3rd Battalion The King's (Liverpool Regiment). Killed in action on 18th August 1916. Awarded the Military Cross. Buried: Flatiron Copse Cemetery, Mametz, Somme, France. Ref. I. B. 28.

CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=556258

 

No match on Norlink

 

Bernard is on the church memorial and not the village memorial, therefore at this time I must assume the information about the MC is correct, and therefore the correct individual has been identified.

 

There are 5 Bernard Beck’s on the 1901 Census, none with any obvious connections to East Anglia, let alone Castle Acre. Intriguingly, two are pupils at Boarding schools, so impossible to see if there are family ties to this area. Four of the five are on the 1911 census, still all well away from Norfolk. There is a Bernard Beck born circa 1909 at Tunstead, Norfolk, but this can hardly be the someone who died as a combatant in WW1.

 

There is also a Bernard Beck on the Weasenham Roll of Honour who is believed to be the Liverpool Regiment man.

www.breckland-rollofhonour.org.uk/weasenham.html

 

However, the link is finally made clear by the Kings Lynn Roll of Honour page.

 

Lieutenant (Temporary Captain). 3rd attached 4th Liverpool Regiment. Awarded the Military Cross, London Gazette, 25/8/1916: 'For conspicuous gallantry during operations. Under heavy fire he established and maintained for six hours communications between the front line and the H.Q.'s of an infantry brigade.' Killed in action France 18/8/1916. Flat Iron Copse cemetery, Mametz, I.B. 28 Note: until 2000 his headstone did not show the award of the M.C., this has since been corrected.

Born Winton Lodge, Leyton Court Road, Streatham, 13/6/1890, son of Harry, a wine merchant, and Julia Beck. He was well known for his interests in farming and held High House Farm, Weasenham. Married Enid Brown, of King's Lynn, and had one child. His wife subsequently remarried, to Mr. Neill, and emigrated to Australia on 26/9/1919.

Enlisted in the 8th Reserve Cavalry Regiment, 24/8/1914, this unit was affiliated to the 16th and 17th Lancers and he is noted as being 6462, Private, 16th Lancers.

Commissioned 15/10/1914. To the Western Front, June, 1915. He was acting second in command of his battalion when he was killed. Death notified by telegram 23/8/1916.

His service papers are at the National Archive (WO339/29583).

Also named on All Saints Church, South Lynn, Memorial Window

www.roll-of-honour.com/Norfolk/KingsLynn.html

 

John Blowers………………………………...................................(RoH)

Private 3/10310. 9th Battalion Norfolk Regiment. Killed in action in France & Flanders on 15th September 1916. Aged 40. Born Sporle, Norfolk. Enlisted Norwich. Son of Mrs. Maria Blowers; husband of Ethel Mary Blowers, of 40, Broad Meadow Common, Castle Acre, King's Lynn, Norfolk. Commemorated: Thiepval Memorial, Somme, France. Pier and Face 1 C and 1 D.

CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=766296

 

No match on Norlink

 

There isn’t a likely match on the 1901 Census and even on the 1911 Census, we have a “30 year old” John Blowers rather than the 34/35 year old we‘d expect. This John Blowers was born Sporle, and is now recorded in the Freebridge District, the District which covers Castle Acre.

 

Going back to the 1891 Census makes things a little clearer. The John Blowers from Sporle is aged 14, and resident at The Street, Sporle and employed as an Agricultural Labourer. This is the household of his parents, James, (aged 62 and an Agricultural Labourer from Sporle), and Maria, (aged 57 and from Scarning). Their other children are Jane, (aged 11), and Leonard, (aged 8), both from Sprole.

 

15th September 1916

 

On September 15th the 1st Leicesters and the 9th Norfolks attacked a German strongpoint called the Quadrilateral in the region of Flers. The attack was originally planned to include 3 tanks in support but two broke down before zero hour and the third was disabled at the start of the advance.

At zero hour the leading companies ("D" & "B") moved off at a steady pace, advancing in four lines at 30 paces interval, the supporting companies ("C" & "A") following in the same formation 300 yards in the rear, and the enemy at once opened a heavy machine gun fire.

The Battalion suffered heavily from the machine gun fire and was held up by the undamaged wire in the front of a German trench, leading from the North West corner of the Quadrilateral, the existence of which was not known. Despite having dug in overnight the Battalion was forced to withdraw the next day having lost 14 officers and 410 other ranks killed, wounded or missing.

www.whitwick.org.uk/history/regulars.htm

 

See John William Green below, who died in the same action.

 

Algier Buckenham……………………………….......................................(RoH)

Lance Corporal 21274. 8th Battalion Border Regiment. Formerly 19076 Norfolk Regiment. Killed in action in France & Flanders on 5th July 1916. Born North Pickenham, Norfolk. Lived Swaffham. Enlisted Norwich. Commemorated: Thiepval Memorial, Somme, France. Pier and Face 6 A and 7 C.

CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=766146

 

No match on Norlink

 

The 10 year Algier, (born South Pickenham), is recorded on the 1901 Census at Place Farm Cottages, Great & Little Snarehill, near Thetford. This was the household of his parents, Frederick Buckenham, (aged 47 and an Agricultural Labourer from Great Cressingham) and Charlotte, (aged 47 and also from Great Cressingham). Their other children are:-

Ada………………aged 12.…………born Great Cressingham

Archer………….aged 8.……………born East Winch

Bessie………….aged 3.……………born East Winch

Frederick……..aged 27.…………born Great Cressingham..Single..Housekeeper on Farm

Harry…………..aged 21.…………born Great Cressingahm..Single..Agricultural Labourer

Jesse…………..aged 26.…………born Great Cressingham…Single..Cattleman on Farm

William John..aged 17.………..born Great Cressingham…Single..Agricultural Labourer

 

Making up the household is the Buckenham’s grandson, Thomas Buckenham, (aged 4, born East Winch). The 1911 census also refers to Algier being born at South Pickenham, and he is by now recorded on the District that covers Castle Acre. Also resident in the same district are Jesse, William John, Archer and Bessie.

 

I can find information on the Brigade of which Algier’s 8th Borders was a part being in action on the 3rd, but nothing major on the 5th - I can only assume this was part of holding the little that had been gained so far in the battle of the Somme.

 

North of Ovillers, the 32nd Div reinforced by 75 Bde of 25th Div attacked the Leipzig Redoubt near Authuille Wood. There was utter confusion over start times and the 32nd Div attack consisted of only two companies of the Highland Light Infantry. After two attempts no gains were made.

forum.irishmilitaryonline.com/showthread.php?t=9058

 

Hugh T Buxton………………………………...........................(RoH)

Probably: Private 43881. 14th Battalion Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders. Died of wounds in France & Flanders on 8th October 1918. Born and enlisted Norwich. Buried: Haringhe (Bandaghem) Military Cemetery, Poperinge, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium. Ref. III. A. 40.

CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=93599

 

No match on Norlink

 

The 1911 Census has a 13 year old Hugh, born Swafield and now resident in the Freebridge District which includes Castle Acre. Although I have limited access to this, the family seems to consist of:-

James……….aged 46/born circa 1865 at Sparham

Sarah………..aged 45/born circa 1866 at Elsing

Ernest……….aged 19/born circa 1892 at Sparham

Arthur……….aged 15/born circa 1896 at Sparham

Stanley……..aged 5/born circa 1906 at Castle Acre

Allen………….aged 3/born circa 1908 at Castle Acre

 

The Genes Re-united site also confirms that’s the CWGC individual from the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders and shown as H T in their records, is in fact a Hugh T.

 

The 14th Division, of which this battalion was part, lists amongst its battle honours

Battle of Ypres. 28 Sep-2 Oct 1918

www.warpath.orbat.com/divs/14_div.htm

 

Sydney G Buxton………………………………...................................(RoH)

Probably: Sidney George Buxton. Private 21399. 2nd Battalion Northumberland Fusiliers. Formerly 18866 West Yorkshire Regiment. Died in the Mediterranean Theatre of war on 10th September 1916. Born Elsing, Norfolk. Enlisted York. Commemorated: Doiran Memorial, Greece.

CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=1648984

 

No match on Norlink

 

Np obvious match on the 1901 Census, but the 1911 Census includes a George Buxton living at Castle Acre. He was born circa 1881 at East Barham. On the 1891 Census the 10 year old old George A, (born Walsingham, Fakenham),can be found at Waterhouse Cottage, Birmingham Terrace, Walsingham, This is the household of his parents, Alfred A. (aged 35 and a Horse Team Man) and Caroline, (age n\k from Saxingham).

 

September 10 1916 the Struma, which had served as a line of defence, was crossed by General Milne's troops both south and north of Lake Tachinos. Between the Lake and the Gulf of Orfano they occupied the " New Village " (Neokhori or Yeni Kioi). To the north they crossed at various points between Lake Butkovo and Lake Tachinos. Some small villages were occupied, and the Northumberland Fusiliers drove the Bulgarians out of Nevoljen, inflicting severe losses on the enemy The British troops subsequently withdrew as pre- arranged. Five days later the offensive was renewed. British forces seized the villages of Kato (or Lower) Ghoudheli, Jami Mah, Ago Mah and Komarian, and burnt them to the ground.

www.dublin-fusiliers.com/salonika/1916-birdcage.html

 

In a report in the London Gazette, it notes the Northumberlands, “lost heavily during their retirement and subsequent counter-attack, They also suffered severely from our artillery fire in attempting to follow our pre-arranged movements to regain the right bank of the river”

London Gazette Supplement for the 6th December 1916.

www.london-gazette.co.uk/issues/29851/supplements/11932/p...

 

John Daws……………………………….............................................(RoH)

Probably: John Daws. Private 240035. 1st/5th Battalion Norfolk Regiment. Died in Palestine on 19th April 1917. Born Shipdham, Norfolk. Enlisted Swaffham. Commemorated: Buried Jerusalem Memorial. Panels 12 to 15.

CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=1644940

 

No match on Norlink

 

There is no obvious match on the 1901 Census, but the high-level search of the 1911 Census throws up a 20 years old John. Born Shipdham, and recorded in the District of Freebridge, (which covers Castle Acre).

 

There are 22 Daws, including John, recorded in this District with most being born either Great Massingham or Shipdham.

 

19th April 1917 During the 2nd Battle of Gaza,

 

Facing the Tank Redoubt was the 161st Brigade of the 54th Division. To their right were the two Australian battalions (1st and 3rd) of the Imperial Camel Corps Brigade who had dismounted about 4,000 yards from their objective. As the infantry went in to attack at 7.30am they were joined by a single tank called "The Nutty" which attracted a lot of shell fire. The tank followed a wayward path towards the redoubt on the summit of a knoll where it was fired on point blank by four field guns until it was stopped and set alight in the middle of the position.

The infantry and the 1st Camel Battalion, having suffered heavy casualties on their approach, now made a bayonet charge against the trenches. About 30 "Camels" and 20 of the British infantry (soldiers of the 5th (territorial Battalion of the Norfolk Regiment) reached the redoubt, then occupied by around 600 Turks who immediately broke and fled towards their second line of defences to the rear.

The British and Australians held on unsupported for about two hours by which time most had been wounded. With no reinforcements at hand and a Turkish counter-attack imminent, the survivors endeavoured to escape back to their own lines.

To the right (west) of Tank Redoubt, the 3rd Camel Battalion, advancing in the gap between two redoubts, actually made the furthest advance of the battle, crossing the Gaza-Beersheba Road and occupying a pair of low hills (dubbed "Jack" and "Jill"). As the advances on their flanks faltered, the "Camels" were forced to retreat to avoid being isolated.

 

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Second_Battle_of_Gaza

 

More than a thousand one hundred of the men of the 54th posted killed wounded or missing were from the two Norfolk regiment battalions, equating to 75% of their strength. Eastern Daily Press "Sunday" section May 5, 2007

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Second_Battle_of_Gaza

 

George Ellis……………………………….............................................(RoH)

RoH believes possibly : Private 9194. 7th Battalion Norfolk Regiment. Died in France & Flanders on 5th October 1915. Born Great Hockham, Norfolk. Enlisted Norwich. Buried: Bethune Town Cemetery, Pas de Calais, France. Ref. IV. E. 91.

CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=62798

but see Census details below

 

No match on Norlink

 

The 1901 Census has a 7 year old George, born Hockham, recorded at 12 Shropham Road, Hockham. This is the household of his parents, George, (aged 38 and a Carter on an estate timber yard, from Ashill), and Emily, (aged 37 and from Hockham). Their other children are:-

Charles………….aged 17.….born Hockham..Labourer on farm

Frederick……….aged 4.……born Hockham

Jane……………….aged 9.…..born Hockham

John W……………aged u/1...born Hockham

 

However, when I check for a location on the 1911 census, the Hockham born George is recorded in the district of Wayland, while the entry above it is for a George H Ellis, born circa 1895 at Coston, Norfolk, and now resident in the Freebridge District, which covers Castle Acre. There is no obvious match for George H. in the CWGC database - the five individuals concerned all have no additonal details or even age.

 

George H. is recorded on the 1901 census at Weston Street, Market Weston, Suffolk. This is the household of his parents, Edward, (age 28 and a Gardener Domestic from Necton), and Maria, (aged 28 and from Hardingham). They have four other children, Ellen, (aged 2, born Market Weston), Gordon, (aged 3, born Coston), John, (aged u/1, born Market Weston) and Reginald, (aged 5, born Coston)

 

John William Green………………………………...................................(RoH)

Private 19115. 9th Battalion Norfolk Regiment. Killed in action in France & Flanders on 15th September 1916. Aged 27. Born Castle Acre. Enlisted Shoreham, Sussex. Son of Mrs. Rebecca Green, of I, Pales Green, Castle Acre, King's Lynn, Norfolk. Commemorated: Thiepval Memorial, Somme, France. Pier and Face 1 C and 1 D.

CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=787283

 

No match on Norlink

 

The 12 year old John, born Castle Acre), is recorded on the 1901 Census at Pales Green Cottages, Castle Acre. His occupation is listed as “with Bricklayer”. This is the household of his parents, William, (aged 58 and a Gardener Domestic from Stiffkey), and Rebecca, (aged 52 and a Sewing Domestic from West Lexham (?)). Also living with them is another son, Henry, (aged 17 and a General Farm Labourer from Castle Acre). John doesn’t readily appear to be on the 1911 Census.

 

15th September 1916

 

On September 15th the 1st Leicesters and the 9th Norfolks attacked a German strongpoint called the Quadrilateral in the region of Flers. The attack was originally planned to include 3 tanks in support but two broke down before zero hour and the third was disabled at the start of the advance.

At zero hour the leading companies ("D" & "B") moved off at a steady pace, advancing in four lines at 30 paces interval, the supporting companies ("C" & "A") following in the same formation 300 yards in the rear, and the enemy at once opened a heavy machine gun fire.

The Battalion suffered heavily from the machine gun fire and was held up by the undamaged wire in the front of a German trench, leading from the North West corner of the Quadrilateral, the existence of which was not known. Despite having dug in overnight the Battalion was forced to withdraw the next day having lost 14 officers and 410 other ranks killed, wounded or missing.

www.whitwick.org.uk/history/regulars.htm

 

See John Blowers above, who died in the same action

 

Lewis Green……………………………….............................................(RoH)

 

No further information available at present on RoH.

 

Possibly

Name: GREEN, LEWIS

Rank: Private Regiment/Service: Lincolnshire Regiment Unit Text: 1st Bn.

Date of Death: 16/06/1915 Service No: 16215

Grave/Memorial Reference: Panel 21. Memorial: YPRES (MENIN GATE) MEMORIAL

 

CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=907731

Or a 1st Battalion Norfolks Man, (down as L Green but Genes Reunited confirms he was a Lewis in their copy of the Index of War Deaths)

www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=450340

 

No match on Norlink

 

There are no clear candidates on either the 1901 or 1911 census, although there are 4 with Norfolk connections out of over a potential 40+ matches

 

Robert William Green………………………………..........................(RoH)

Private 11760. 2nd Battalion King's Own Scottish Borderers. Killed in action in France & Flanders on 5th February 1915. Aged 19. Born and lived Castle Acre. Enlisted Norwich. Son of Fredrick George and Amelia Elizabeth Green, of Castle Stile, Castle Acre, Norfolk. Buried: R.E. Farm Cemetery, Heuvelland, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium. Ref. II. B. 6.

CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=102464

 

No match on Norlink

The 6 year old Robert W, born Castle Acre, is recorded on the 1901 census at Newton Road, Castle Acre. This is the household of his parents, Frederick, (aged 28 and a Farm Labourer from Castle Acre), and Amelia, (aged 27 and from Swaffham). They lived next door to the family of William, (listed below)

 

William James Green…………………….........................(RoH)

 

Private 20502. 1st Battalion Essex Regiment. Formerly 16912 Norfolk Regiment. Killed in action in Gallipoli on 6th August 1915. Aged 21. Born and lived Castle Acre. Enlisted Norwich. Son of Arthur and Harriett Green, of Newton Rd., Castle Acre, King's Lynn, Norfolk. Commemorated: Helles Memorial, Turkey. Panel 144 to 150 or 229 to 233.

CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=693846

No match on Norlink

 

The 6 year old William, born Castle Acre, is recorded on the 1901 Census at Newton Road, Castle Acre. This is the household of his parents, Arthur J, (aged 30 and a Farm Labourer from West Acre), and Harriet, (aged 28 and from Castle Acre). Their other children are Hanah, (aged 8) and Susannah, (aged 10), both born Castle Acre.

They lived next door to the family of Robert, (listed above).

 

6th August 1915

Sir Ian Hamilton’s Third Gallipoli dispatch

At Helles the attack of the 6th was directed against 1,200 yards of the Turkish front opposite our own right and right centre, and was to be carried out by the 88th Brigade of the 29th Division. Two small Turkish trenches enfilading the main advance had, if possible, to be captured simultaneously, an affair which was entrusted to the 42nd Division. After bombardment the infantry assaulted at 3.50 p.m. On the left large sections of the enemy's line were carried, but on our centre and right the Turks were encountered in masses, and the attack, pluckily and perseveringly as it was pressed, never had any real success. The 1st Battalion, Essex Regiment, in particular forced their way into the crowded enemy trench opposite them, despite the most determined resistance, but, once in, were subjected to the heaviest musketry fire from both flanks, as well as in reverse, and were shattered by showers of bombs.

www.1914-1918.net/hamiltons_gallipoli_despatch_3.html

 

Geoff’s Search Engine on the CWGC database returns details of 240 1st Essex men who died on this day.

 

Edgar Starr Grimes…………………….............................(RoH)

 

Lance Corporal A/201098. 8th Battalion King's Royal Rifle Corps. Died of wounds in France & Flanders on 28th August 1917. Born Pentney, Norfolk. Lived Swaffham. Enlisted Holborn, Middlesex. Buried: Lijssenthoek Military Cemetery, Poperinge, West-Vlaanderen. Ref. XVIII. C. 17A.

CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=144351

 

During the First World War, the village of Lijssenthoek was situated on the main communication line between the Allied military bases in the rear and the Ypres battlefields. Close to the Front, but out of the extreme range of most German field artillery, it became a natural place to establish casualty clearing stations. The cemetery was first used by the French 15th Hopital D'Evacuation and in June 1915, it began to be used by casualty clearing stations of the Commonwealth forces.

www.cwgc.org/search/cemetery_details.aspx?cemetery=14900&...

 

No match on Norlink

 

The 18 year old Edgar, born Pentney and a Private in the Norfolk Militia, is recorded on the 1901 Census at River Yard, Castle Acre. This is the household of his parents, Ridchard, (aged 45 and an Ordinary Agricultural Labourer from Heacham), and Emma, (aged 38 and from Pentney). Their other children are:-

Daisy……………….aged 13.………born Sporle

Thomas…………….aged 2.………..born Castle Acre

Vilo (Daughter)...aged 9.…………born Caste Acre

 

Walter Hamblin………………………………..........................(RoH)

Private 21337. 8th Battalion Border Regiment. Formerly 18660 Norfolk Regiment. Died in France & Flanders on 9th July 1916. Born Barnett (sic) Norfolk. Lived Castle Acre. Enlisted Norwich. Buried: Le Cateau Military Cemetery, Nord, France. Ref. IV. A. 7.

CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=594896

 

No match on Norlink

 

There is no obvious match on the 1901 Census, and given the information from the RoH site, the only likely match is a Norman Hamblin, born Barney circa 1893 and now recorded in the District of Walsingham.

 

There is a Walter and a Norman Hamblin recorded on the Great Snoring memorial

www.the-snorings.co.uk/info/GSwarmems.html

 

The RoH site for Great Snoring advises that the Walter Hamblin who was in the Border Regiment died of wounds whilst a Prisoner of War.

www.roll-of-honour.com/Norfolk/GreatSnoring.html

 

Walter Harrison………………………………..........................(RoH)

 

Private 23155. 7th Battalion Border Regiment. Formerly 18661 Norfolk Regiment. Killed in action in France & Flanders on 16th September 1917. Lived Newton-by-Castle Acre. Enlisted Norwich. Buried: Brown's Copse Cemetery, Roeux, Pas de Calais, France. Ref. IV. B. 61.

CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=567758

No match on Norlink

 

The 18 year old Walter, born Castle Acre and a Farm Labourer, is recorded on the 1901 census at St James Green, Castle Acre. This is the household of his parents, James, (aged 60 and a Farm Labourer from Castle Acre) and Elizabeth, (aged 59 and from Castle Acre). James and Elizabeth also have a grand-daughter living with them, Alice E Clarke, aged 7 and from Castle Acre.

 

I can’t find any evidende of the 17th Division, of which the 7th Battalion was a part, being engaged in the Battle of Passchendaele at this time, although they list the October battles as part of the Divisional battle honours

 

Alan William Heywood………………............................(RoH)

 

Private 31575. 20th Battalion Lancashire Fusiliers. Killed in action in France & Flanders on 21st August 1916. Born Castle Acre. Enlisted Haslingden, Lancs. Husband of Sarah May Heywood of 64 Rumbold Street, Duphill, Rochdale. Commemorated: Thiepval Memorial, Somme, France. Pier and Face 3 C and 3 D.

CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=791571

No match on Norlink

 

The 17 year old Alan, (born Castle Acre and now employed as an Agricultural Labourer) is recorded on the 1901 Census at Abbey Farm House, Castle Acre. This is the household of his grand-father, Robert Addison, (aged 70 and a Clerk to the Parish Council and Caretaker at the Abbey. Robert has his 44 year old daughter, Bertha Addison living with him as Housekeeper and also employed as a Caretaker at the Abbey. There are a further two grandchildren living with Robert - Ella Addison, (aged 11) and Rosalie Addison, (aged 14) - both born Castle Acre. On the 1891 census there is a 7 year old A W Heywood recorded, who was born Castle Acre and was then living in the household of his grandfather, Robert Addison, aged 60 and described as Parish Clerk and Engine Driver at Post Office Street, Castle Acre. Bertha, Ella and Rosalie are all present, as is Robert’s wife Ruth who was then aged 60.

 

The Division of which the 20th Lancashire’s were part were certainly in action on this day, but I can’t find any clear reference to them being involve.

 

Herbert Howard…………………………............................(RoH)

 

Private 8/21354. 8th Battalion Border Regiment. Formerly 19078 Norfolk Regiment. Killed in action in France & Flanders on 28th May 1916. Aged 31. Born Barmesh (sic) Norfolk. Lived Swaffham. Enlisted Norwich. Son of the late William and Sarah Maria Howard. Born at Barmer, Fakenham, Norfolk. Buried: Ecoivres Military Cemetery, Mont-St. Eloi, Pas de Calais, France. Ref. II. E. 14.

CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=65458

No match on Norlink

 

1911 Census has a 25 year old Howard, born Barmer and now recorded in the District of Freebridge, which covers Castle Acre. There is no obvious match on the Genes Re-united transcription of the 1901 Census for England and Wales.

 

On the 1891 Census, the 5 year old Herbert, (born Barmer), is recorded at Hibbard Farm, Rudham Road, Helhoughton. This is the household of his parents, William, (age 36 and an Agricultural Labourer from Honingham) and Sarah, (aged 37 and from Dunham). Their other children are:-

William…………aged 11.………..born East Radham….Agricultural Labourer

George…………..aged 9.………..born East Bilney

Edith…………….aged 8.…………..born Barmer

Amy……………….aged 5.…………born Barmer

Frederic (?)…..aged 10 months……born Barmer

 

Update 4th May 2024…………

There are surviving service records for Herbert which I will need to check.

On the 1911 Census of England & Wales the 25 year old Herbert Howard, an unmarried Farm Labourer, born Barmer, Norfolk, was recorded living at St James Green, Castleacre. This was the household of his parents William, (aged 56, an Agricultural Traction Engine Driver, born East Rudham, Norfolk), and Sarah, (57, born East Bilney, Norfolk). The couple state they have been married 32 years and the union has produced 7 children, all then still alive. The only other child living with them is a 14 year old daughter, Alice, born Weasenham St. Peters, Norfolk.

From the Battalion War Diary.

“28th May 1916- Our front line & support line trenches were subjected to Artillery fire and mortars for the greater part of the day our casualties 1 man of A Coy wounded, 6 wounded & 2 killed in B Coy and 1 wounded in D coy.”

 

Lewis Hudson………………………………............................(RoH)

 

Private 5221. 5th Battalion Lincolnshire Regiment. Killed in action in France & Flanders on 14th October 1916. Born and lived Castle Acre. Enlisted Norwich. Buried: Berles Position Military Cemetery, Pas de Calais, France. Ref. B. 7.

CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=557731

No match on Norlink

 

The 11 year old Lewis, (born Castle Acre), can be found on the 1901 Census at Bailey Street, Castle Acre. This is the household of his parents, Herbert, (aged 40 and an Agricultural Labourer from Pentney), and Hannah, (aged 37 and from Mileham). Their other children are:

George………….aged 1.…born Castle Acre

Robert…………..aged 15.born Narborough…Agricultural Labourer

Ruth………………aged 5...born Castle Acre

Thomas…………aged 8...born Castle Acre (see below)

 

The battalion spent the rest of the summer and much of the autumn holding trenches in the Foncquevillers and Monchy areas. In October 1916, A Company carried out a successful night raid on the German trenches, having received special training beforehand.

www.investigations.4-lom.com/2007/01/17/berlin-by-christmas/

 

Thomas Hudson……………………………….......................(RoH)

 

Private 20870. 1st Battalion Essex Regiment. Formerly 17796 Norfolk Regiment. Killed in action in France & Flanders on 22nd November 1916. Born and lived Castle Acre. Enlisted Norwich. Buried: Guards' Cemetery, Lesboeufs, Somme, France. Ref. VII. Q. 9.

CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=543082

No match on Norlink

 

See Lewis Hudson above for family details

 

William Walter Long……………….................................(RoH)

 

Private 2969. 1st/5th Battalion Norfolk Regiment. Killed in action in Gallipoli on 6th September 1915. Aged 19. Enlisted East Dereham. Son of Frederick and Charlotte Long of Stocks Green, Castle Acre, King's Lyn, Norfolk. Commemorated: Helles Memorial, Turkey. Panel 42 to 44.

CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=75194985

No match on Norlink

 

The 5 year old William, (born Castle Acre), can be found on the 1901 Census at Stocks Green Bake House, Castle Acre. This is the household of his parents, Frederick, (aged 46 and a Baker from Spooner Row), and Charlotte, (aged 44 and from Little Fransham). Their other children are:

Ellen……………aged 12.………….born Castle Acre

Henry………….aged 7.……………born Castle Acre

Maria…………..aged 14.…………born Castle Acre…Mother’s Help

 

Following heavy losses - first in combat and then from the effects of illness, by the start of September the 1/4th and 1/5th were fighting effectively as one unit. An officer of the 1/4th, writing a few days after Private Long’s death, noted,

 

9th. - More or less quiet. We lose a few men every day, principally from a gun on our right flank which nearly enfilades us, and fires at a pretty close range. The fault lies chiefly with the men, who will not take proper care of themselves, nor make their dug-outs deep enough.

user.online.be/~snelders/sand.htm

 

 

Arthur Harry Meek…………………...............................(RoH)

 

Private TR/LON/139882. Royal Fusiliers. Died on 27th November 1918. Aged 18. Buried: Castle Acre (St. James) Churchyard. South-West part.

CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=2802750

No match on Norlink

 

The 6 month old Arthur H. (born Castle Acre), can be found on the 1901 Census at Lime Kiln Yard, Castle Acre. This is the household of his parents, William, (aged 34 and an Agricultural Labourer from North Creake), and Elizabeth A., (aged 35 and from Castle Acre). The Meek’s have another son, Robert. J, (aged 4). Elizabeth also has children from a previous marriage living with her, Frederick Drew, (aged 15, born Castle Acre, employed as an Agricultural Labourer), George W. Drew (aged 17, born Castle Acre, employed as an Agricultural Labourer), and Leonard W.Drew, (aged 9 and from Castle Acre).

 

Ernest William Mobbs…………………………..................(RoH)

 

Private 17320. "D Company, 7th Battalion, Norfolk Regiment. Died in France & Flanders on 13th October 1915. Born Castle Acre. Enlisted Norwich. Son of George and Mary Ann Mobbs, of Abbey Rd., Castle Acre, Norfolk. Commemorated: Loos Memorial, Pas de Calais, France. Panel 30 and 31.

CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=1764991

No match on Norlink

 

The 5 year old Ernest, (born Castle Acre), can be found on the 1901 Census at Fullers Yard, Castle Acre. This is the household of his parents, George, (aged 32 and an Ordinary Agricultural Labourer from Castle Acre), and Maryann, (aged 32 and from Castle Acre). Their other children areEdith, (aged 9) and Walter, (aged 3) - both born Castle Acre.

 

(Charles) Frederick Moore……………………........(RoH)

 

Private 11671. 1st Battalion King's Own Scottish Borderers. Killed in action in The Dardenelles on 1st August 1915. Born and lived Castle Acre. Enlisted Norwich. Commemorated: Helles Memorial, Turkey. Panel 84 to 92 or 220 to 222.

CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=688827

No match on Norlink

 

See George below for family details.

 

George Moore………………………………..........................(RoH)

 

Lance Corporal 18753. 7th Battalion Norfolk Regiment. Killed in action in France & Flanders on 17th July 1917. Aged 28. Born Castle Acre. Enlisted Norwich. Son of Mr. and Mrs. William Moore, of St. James Green, Castle Acre, King's Lynn, Norfolk husband of Gertrude Moore, of Pales Green, Castle Acre. Buried: Canadian Cemetery No.2, Neuville - St. Vaast, Pas de Calais, France. Ref. 15. E. 18.

CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=2954861

No match on Norlink

 

The 13 year old George, born Castle Acre, can be found on the 1901 Census at Newton Road, Castle Acre. This was the household of his parents, William, (aged 41 and a Farm Labourer from Castle Acre), and Jad (?), (aged 37 and from Castle Acre).

Their other children are:-

Eliza……….aged 5.…….born Castle Acre

Frederick..aged 7.…….born Castle Acre

James……..aged u/1...born Castle Acre

William……aged 9.…….born Castle Acre

 

 

Phillip Moore………………………………............................(RoH)

 

Company Serjeant Major 4754. 1st Battalion Norfolk Regiment. Killed in action in France & Flanders on 27th July 1916. Born Castle Acre. Enlisted Norwich. Husband of Ethel Rose Anna Moore of Tottington, Thetford, Norfolk. Buried: Caterpillar Valley Cemetery, Longueval, Somme, France. Ref. XV. C. 33. * #

CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=553608

No match on Norlink

 

No obvious match on the 1901 or 1911 Census.

 

27th July 1916 From the War diary of the 1st Battalion Bedfordshire Regiment

 

OPERATION ORDER NO.6 1/BEDFORDSHIRE Rgt. REF. Sheet LONGUEVAL 27th July. 1916

1. The 15th Infantry Bde. will attack the village of LONGUEVAL on 27th inst.

2. The attack will be preceded by a bombardment of 2 hours commencing at 2 hours before zero, i.e. at 5.10 A.M.

3. (a) At ZERO i.e. 7.10 A.M. 2 Coys 1/NORFOLK RGT. will advance from their line of assembly to the first objective. (b) The Guns will then lift onto the 2nd line of barrage. (c) A & B Coys will occupy the trenches vacated by two coys 1/NORFOLKS at this time.

4. (a) At 8.10 a.m. 2 coys 1/NORFOLKS will advance to 2nd objective (b) remaining 2 coys 1/NORFOLKS will move up into trenches vacated by 2 assaulting coys of 1/NORFOLKS (c) A.& B. Coys will move into the Trenches vacated by last 2 coys 1/NORFOLKS (d) C. & D. Coys will occupt original line of assembly. (e) At 8.40 A.M. Guns will lift onto final objective.

5. (a) At 8.40 A.M. A. & B. Coys. will attack the final objective. (b) The Guns will lift onto a line [blank] to [blank] & will stay on this line

6. A.Coy. will be responsible for that part of the objective lying to the right of the road running N.-S. through LONGUEVAL.. B.Coy. to the left of this road. (b) A.Coy. is responsible for the ORCHARD & for the strong post at [blank]. Special attention should also be paid to the right flank. (c) B.Coy. is responsible for the strong point at [blank]

7. When the final objective is captured, it will be consolidated AT ONCE & held at all costs.

8. Green flares will be lit at 9 a.m. & 2 p.m. & on reaching the final objective.

9. Bn. H.Q. is in old German 2nd line at S.17.d.5/9.

10. Aid Post is in dug out in old German 2nd Line. formerly occupied by H.Q. 1/NORFOLK Rgt.

11. All other instructions have been issued verbally.

REPORT ON OPERATIONS 26/28 JULY 1/BEDFORDSHIRE Rgt 26.7.'16 11.15.P.M.

The Battalion left its Bivouac POMMIERS REDOUBT and marched to Brigade Advanced H.Q. Here owing to very heavy Barrage & poison Gas shells in the Valley the Battalion halted for two hours. The Barrage was still intense but a fresh wind made advance possible & only two cases of gas poisoning have been reported. Shell fire was moderately severe in the valley and increased as the old German Second line Trenches were approached. 27.7.'16 [Capt. PARKER wounded] 3.50 A.M. Battn arrived in position of assembly in German 2nd Line Trenches and improved cover 5.30 A.M. Operation Orders received & communicated to Company Commanders. 7.0 A.M. A & B Coys in accordance with orders, left to take up their position in Reserve trenches at LONGUEVAL. 7.40 A.M. Report received from O.C. 1/NORFOLKS that owing to heavy shell fire, he required assistance 8.20 A.M. OC 1/BEDFORDSHIRE Rgt arrived at H.Q. 1/NORFOLK Rgt in LONGUEVAL having arranged for A & B Coys to assault the second line in conjunction with NORFOLKS & for C & D Coys to pass through & take third line. O.C. 16/ROYAL WARWICKSHIRE Rgt was requested to occupy front line trenches when these were vacated by C & D Coys. A & B Coys had at 7.30 A.M. occupied first line at 'E' & reserve trenches at 'B'. 9.00 A.M. C Coy arrived at E D Coy arrived at B and A Coy pushed across towards German Redoubt at F where the two leading NORFOLK Coys were being held up [100 prisoners surrendered here] Lt. FYSON with his platoon attacked house at G and took 32 prisoners. 9.5 A.M. C Coy advanced across PRINCES Street but were held up by Machine Gun fire from House at Cross Roads (I). This house was taken by a party of NORFOLK bombers. At the same time, two platoons of A Coy reached position marked H & K near FLERS Road where they were in touch in [sic] the ROYAL FUSILIERS on their right. A German counterattack was met with LEWIS Gun & Rifle fire, the estimated Enemy Casualties being 50. Several small posts were observed on the Ridge, apparently protected by wire. 9.30 A.M. C Coy crossed PRINCES STREET and took up a position parallel with NORTH Street joining up the two leading NORFOLK coys. They were unable to progress further owing to heavy Machine Gun fire from DUKE Street. They consolidated their position. 1 Officer & 30 men went forward from B Coy at C to reinforce a Coy of NORFOLKS at A. This coy was held up by Machine Gun fire from direction of DUKE Street & was unable to advance. STOKES Mortar Battery was asked to cooperate, but did not come into action. Later, heavy Artillery was asked to bombard this post. While awaiting this & the opportunity to advance, B & D Coys endeavoured to improve their cover under a hurricane bombardment.

Casualties in these two

B Coy 2 Officers 54 O.R. out of 5 Officers & 166 O.R.

D Coy 2 Officers 106 O.R. out of 5 Officers & 176 O.R.

6.30 P.M. ROYAL FUSILIERS on right, owing to heavy shell fire, retired and out line at K & H was slightly withdrawn to cover exposed flank. 7.0 P.M. B Coy received orders to retire to German Second Line trenches, leaving one platoon to hold line at A. A similar order was sent to D Coy but did not reach there and a second order was sent at 8.0 P.M. 9.0 P.M. C Coy tried to establish itself on East side of NORTH ST. but had to withdraw. They consolidated in touch with NORFOLKS & the SOUTH STAFFORDS of 2nd Division 28.7.'16 6 A.M. 1/D.C.L.I. & 1/E.SURREYS arrived & took over the line & the Battalion withdrew to POMMIERS Redoubt. The total casualties were 9 Officers 303 O.R. out of 23 Officers 807 O.R.

15th Infy. Bde. 1st Bedfords

The Brigadier-General Commanding wishes to express to all ranks of the Brigade his great admiration at the magnificent manner in which they captured the Village of LONGUEVAL yesterday. To the 1st NORFOLK Regiment and the 1st BEDFORDSHIRE Regiment and some of the 16th ROYAL WARWICKSHIRE Regiment, who were able to get into the enemy with the bayonet, he offers his heartiest congratulations. He knows it is what they have been waiting and wishing for many months. The 1st CHESHIRE Regiment made a most gallant and determined effort to reach their objective and failed through no fault of their own. The way in which the Troops behaved under the subsequent heavy bombardment was worthy of the best traditions of the British Army The Brigade captured 4 Officers and 159 other ranks 28/7/1916

 

www.bedfordregiment.org.uk/1stbn/1stbtn1916appendices.html

 

William Thomas Pember…………………………….........(RoH)

 

Probably: Private L/9226. 4th Battalion Middlesex Regiment. Died on 14th November 1914. Commemorated: Le Touret Memorial, Pas de Calais, France. Panels 31 and 32.

CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=1560479

No match on Norlink

 

There are only two individuals with the surname Pember on the 1901 & 1911 Census, both having been born here, and both having moved away from the area entirely. There is no obvious connection with the Castle Acre area. Curiously the 1901 two are different to the 1911 two. There is a William Pember born Middlesex who would have been of the right age to have fought in WW1, and may therefore account for our CWGC man.

 

Reginald E Porter………………………………......................(RoH)

 

Lieutenant. Royal Army Medical Corps attached to 3rd Battalion Rifle Brigade. Killed in action in France on 26th October 1914. Aged 26. Younger son of Dr. G.C. Porter of Castle Acre. Commemorated: Ploegsteert Memorial, Comines-Warneton, Hainaut, Belgium.

 

Also commemorated in Parish Church by a marble plaque on the wall.

CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=1643663

(as Reginald Edward)

 

No match on Norlink

 

The 12 year old Reginald E, (born Castle Acre) is recorded on the 1901 Census at Bailey Street, Castle Acre. This is the household of his parents, George C, (aged 47 and a Registered Medical Practitioner from Ireland), and Rose Z A, (aged 42 and also from Ireland). Their other son is George R, (aged 16 and born Castle Acre).

 

The 3rd Rifle Brigade were involved in the Battle of Armentieres at this time, part of the Race to the Sea that would end in the stalemate of trench warfare.

 

UPDATED see comment 1 below

 

Cyril J Savage……………………………...........................(RoH)

 

Lance Corporal 16748. 1st Battalion Norfolk Regiment. Killed in action in France & Flanders on 27th October 1917. Born Castleacre. Enlisted Norwich. Buried: Hooge Crater Cemetery, Ieper, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium. Ref. VIA. F. 3. *

CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=459240

 

No match on Norlink

 

The 15 year old Cyril John is recorded on the 1911 census as being born at Castle, but now resident in the District of Swaffham. While there is no Cyril on the 1901 Census, there is a John of the right age, who was born in Castle Acre. This John is now resident at Cubitts Barn, Little Dunham. This is the household of his parents, James, (aged 34 and a Cattleman on Farm from South Raynham), and Ann, (aged 25 and from Greenstone(?) Norfolk). Their other children are Grace, (aged 5, born South Acre), and Lucy, (aged 3 and born Castle Acre).

 

The 5th Division were in the front line for the 2nd Battle of Passchendaele, which kicked off on the 26th, however the 1st Norfolks were not in the Divisional Brigade ordered to attack. No advance was possible and on the 28th the Division was relieved.

 

Arthur John Sculpher…………………….......................(RoH)

 

Private 17521. 3rd Battalion Coldstream Guards. Killed in action in France & Flanders on 12th April 1918. Aged 24. Born Castle Acre. Lived E. Lexham, Norfolk. Enlisted Norwich. Son of Robert and Emily Sculpher, of Newton Rd., Castle Acre, King's Lynn. Commemorated: Ploegsteert Memorial, Comines-Warneton, Hainaut, Belgium. Panel 1.

CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=868133

 

No match on Norlink

 

Arthur John, aged 17 and born Castle Rising, appears on the 1911 census as still being resident in the Freebridge District. There are Sculpher familys in both Castle Acre and West Acre on the 1901 Census, but neither have an Arthur or a John.

 

The second phase of the German Spring Offensive had begun the previous day, and the 3rd Coldstream’s like many units were involved in a fighting retreat. There is a brief mention of their activities on the 11th & 12th from the web-site dedicated to the 1st/4th Yorkshire Regiment, who were fighting alongside them.

homepage.ntlworld.com/bandl.danby/057Bn1918.html

 

Done