St Augustine - Great War Roll of Honour Panels 6 and 7

Update 31st October 2014

I apparently have a link or phrase in this section which Flickr objects to, so I'm taking the opportunity to re-write parts of this. Please bear with me.

 

 

***************************Private Ernest E Plunkett**********************************

 

Only E E Plunkett on the CWGC database

 

Name: PLUNKETT, ERNEST EDWARD

Rank: Private

Regiment: Norfolk Regiment Unit Text: 1st Bn.

Date of Death: 04/09/1916 Service No: 43307

Grave/Memorial Reference: Pier and Face 1 C and 1 D. Memorial: THIEPVAL MEMORIAL

CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=1548600

 

No match on Norlink

 

There are three possible on the 1901 census. Ernest (aged 27 and a Chemist Warehouseman from Norwich) and his son Ernest, (aged 7, born Norwich), or Ernest, (aged 10, born Norwich.)

 

The father and son live at 110 Philadelphia Lane, in the parish of Christchurch, New Catton.. Ernest seniors wife is Elizabeth, (aged 24 and from Norwich). Their other children are Elsie, (aged 2), and Sidney A, (aged u/1) - both born Norwich.

 

The other Ernest lives at 4 Church Alley, in the Parish of St Martin at Oak.This is the household of his parents, Walter, (aged 39 and a Plasterer from Norwich) and Eliza, (aged 37 and from Norwich). Their other children are:-

Alice……………………aged 3.…………..born Norwich

David……………………aged 11.…………born Norwich

Eliza…………………….aged 15.…………born Norwich…………Shoe fitter

Elizabeth……………….aged 2.……………born Norwich

Emily…………………..aged 9.…………….born Norwich

Ethel……………………aged 1.……………born Norwich

Walter………………….aged 17.………….born Norwich…….Bricklayers Labourer

 

If this is the right Ernest, then his brother Walter is probably the individual referred to below.

 

The tragedy of Falfremont farm has already been mentioned before in connection with Lieutenant Bertie Benn and Private Arthur Cannell who are also commemorated on this Roll of Honour.

 

Update October 2014

 

Ernest Edward Plunkett is recorded as Killed in Action on SDGW. No place of birth or residence is recorded but he enlisted in Norwich.

 

The Medal Index Card for soldier 43307 Norfolk Regiment is actually in the name of Edward Edmund Plunkett. It is held at the National Archive under reference WO 372/16/28661

discovery.nationalarchives.gov.uk/details/r/D4663826

 

The son of Walter and Eliza Plunkett is recorded as aged 17 on the 1911 census, which doesn’t quite tie up with the previous census.The family are recorded at 9 Rose Yard, St Augustines, Norwich. Walter and Eliza have been married 29 years. The couple have had 8 children – when the form was initially completed all were still alive, however one of he lines has been crossed through and a note added deceased, while the form has been amended to show 7 alive and 1 deceased.

 

***************************Private Walter Plunkett*******************************

 

There are only three W Plunkett’s listed on the CWGC and following investigation all three turn out to be Williams.

 

No match on Norlink

 

Possibly the brother of Ernest listed above.

 

The Plunketts of Norwich web-site has several potential references to this individual but without enough detail to be definate

www.the-plunketts.freeserve.co.uk/extracts.htm

 

Update October 2014

 

SDGW has a Lance Corporal 84690 Walter Edward Plunkett who was Killed in Action on the 14th January 1917 whilst serving with the 207th Field Company, Royal Engineers. Walter was born Norwich, and while no place of residence is recorded, he did enlist in Norwich.

 

That soldier on CWGC is

PLUNKETT, W.E

Rank:………………………………………………Lance Corporal

Service No:……………………………………..84690

Date of Death:………………………………..14/01/1917

Regiment/Service:………………………….Royal Engineers, 207th Field Coy.

Grave Reference:

IV. F. 12.

Cemetery:

BREWERY ORCHARD CEMETERY, BOIS-GRENIER

CWGC: www.cwgc.org/find-war-dead/casualty/59168/PLUNKETT,%20W%20E

 

However the Medal Index card for this Royel Engineer is held in the name of William E Plunkett. It is held at the National Archive under reference WO 372/16/28809

discovery.nationalarchives.gov.uk/details/r/D4663974

 

The Goverments Probate Service also holds a Soldiers Will for 84690 William Edward who died on the 14th January 1917.

 

Cemetery Historical Information.

 

The cellar of the brewery was used as a dressing station and the cemetery was started in the orchard nearby in November 1914. It was sheltered from enemy observation by ruined houses and continued in use until January 1918

www.cwgc.org/find-a-cemetery/cemetery/5801/BREWERY%20ORCH...

 

*******************************Private Harry Purdy****************************

 

There is one Private Harry Purdys on the CWGC database, and one Harold but neither has an obvious link to Norwich

 

Name: PURDY, HARRY

Rank: Private

Regiment: Hampshire Regiment Unit Text: 14th Bn.

Date of Death: 03/09/1916

Service No: 19816

Grave/Memorial Reference: Pier and Face 7 C and 7 B. Memorial: THIEPVAL MEMORIAL

CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=1549769

 

There is an 11 year old Harry Purdy, (born Norwich), recorded on the 1901 census as an inmate\ scholar at what is either an orphanage or boarding school at Bowthorpe Road, Norwich. The next entry on the census return is a 9 year old William Purdy, born Norwich.

 

On the 1891 census, the 2 year old Harry is recorded at 246 Heigham Street

 

The head of the household is listed as a Matilda Purdy, (aged 31and a Laundress from Stiffkey.). Matilda is listed as single. Her children are Kate Ann, (aged 12, born Barningham Parva), Emily, (aged 3, born Norwich), Harry, and William, (aged 4 months).

 

No match on Norlink

 

Update October 2014

 

see comments below

 

*************************Private Herbert R Powell**********************************

 

On the Great War Roll of Honour there are no Herbert R’s on the Other Ranks or Naval Ratings list.

 

No match on Norlink

 

The Baptism of a Herbert Robert Powell took place at St James Pockthorpe, Norwich on the 27th April 1894. His birth date is given as the 15th March 1892. His parents are James, (occupation:labourer) and Mary Ann Elizabeth. The family reside at Mousehold Street.

The high-level search has one only Herbert Powell listed , with a link to Norwich. This is a Herbert R, born circa 1892 in Norwich, and still recorded in the Norwich District at the time of the census.

 

On the 1901 census, the 9 year old Herbert, born Norwich, is recorded at 21 Mousehold Street, in the parish of St James with Pockthorpe. This is the household of his widower father, James, (aged 47 and a General Labourer from Norwich). His siblings are:-

Claude…………….aged 16.…………born Norwich………..Boot Finisher

Daisy………………aged 12.…………born Norwich

Olive………………aged 4.………….born Norwich

 

An older married daughter.also lives with them. She is Leah Sayer, (aged 24, born Norwich), husband is William Sayer, (aged 34, born Norwich, General Labourer), and they have a 1 year old son Sirdar (?).

 

Finally, there is also a boarder resident in the house, Robert Meek, aged 37 and single, born Norwich, and a Carter on a Farm

 

Update October 2014

 

SDGW records a Gunner 875510 Herbert Powell who Died on the 17th October 1918 whilst serving with the Royal Horse Artillery and Royal Field Artillery. He was born Norwich, but while no place of residence is recorded he did enlist in Norwich.

 

That soldier on CWGC is:-

POWELL, H R

Rank:………………………………………………………………Gunner

Service No:…………………………………………………….875510

Date of Death:………………………………………………17/10/1918

Regiment/Service:………………………………………..Royal Field Artillery, 54th Div. Ammunition Col.

Grave Reference:

B. 71.

Cemetery:

ST. GERMAIN-AU-MONT-D'OR COMMUNAL CEMETERY EXTENSION

CWGC: www.cwgc.org/find-war-dead/casualty/326081/POWELL,%20H%20R

 

The Medal Index card for Gunner 875510 Herbert Powell, Royal Field Artillery, is held at the National Archive under reference WO 372/16/61267 He had initially been Gunner 1589 and had reached the rank of Acting Bombardier before being demoted.

discovery.nationalarchives.gov.uk/details/r/D4696432

 

The Governments Probate Service holds a Soldiers Will for a 875510 Herbert Powell who died 17th October 1918.

probatesearch.service.gov.uk/Wills?Surname=Powell&Sur...

 

Cemetery Historical Information.

The cemetery was begun in October 1917, and used by a Rest Camp and a small British Hospital until November 1919.

www.cwgc.org/find-a-cemetery/cemetery/33986/ST.%20GERMAIN...

 

**************************************Private Walter Ralph*******************************

 

Name: RALPH, WALTER

Rank: Private

Regiment: Cambridgeshire Regiment Unit Text: "A" Coy. 1st Bn.

Age: 24 Date of Death: 31/07/1917

Service No: 328195

Additional information: Son of Mrs. Sarah Ralph, of 27, Leonard St., St. Augustine's, Norwich.

Grave/Memorial Reference: Panel 50 and 52. Memorial: YPRES (MENIN GATE) MEMORIAL

CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=1625348

 

No match on Norlink

 

The 9 year old Walter, born Norwich, is recorded on the 1901 census at 27 Leonards Street in the parish of St Augustine. This is the household of his parents, Henry J, (aged 42 and a Whitesmith from Norwich), and Sarah A, (aged 43 and from Norwich). Their other children are:-

Alfred C…………aged 21.………….born Norwich…………Whitesmith

Arthur……………aged 6.…………..born Norwich

Ernest……………aged 14.…………born Norwich……….Office Boy, Netting Manufacturer

Ethel L…………..aged 10.…………born Norwich

George…………..aged 13.…………..born Norwich

Henry J………….aged 24.………….born Norwich………..Whitesmith

Herbert W……….aged 17.………….born Norwich……….Whitesmith

Joseph…………..aged 15.………….born Norwich…………Office Boy, Netting Manufacturer

Maud S…………aged 18.………….born Norwich………….Shoefitter

May E………….aged 9.……………born Norwich

 

The 31st July was the opening day of the Battle of Passchendaele, (aka as Third Ypres). The 18th Division, of which the 1st Cambridgeshire Regiment were part, were involved in the attack on this day, although not the Brigade of which they were part., and which therefore presumably formed the Divisional reserve.

forum.irishmilitaryonline.com/showthread.php?t=11535&...

 

Update October 2014

 

The Medal Index card for Private 328195 Walter Ralph, Cambridgeshire Regiment is held at the National Archive under reference WO 372/16/135175.He had previously been Private 6886 in the same Regiment.

 

The Government Probate Service holds a Soldiers Will for 328195 Walter Ralph who died on the 31st July 1917.

 

By the time of the 1911 census the family was still at Leonard Street. Parents Henry John and Sarah Ann have been married 34 years and have had 14 children, of which 11 were then still alive. Wallter, 18, like his father works as a Fitter in Foundry. Of the other children still at home:-

William Herbert…………..aged 28…….born Norwich…..Cold Iron Worker

Joseph……………………..aged 25…….born Norwich…..Core maker in Foundry

Ernest…………………….aged 24……..born Norwich…..Carpenter

George…………………….aged 22…….born Norwich……Cold Iron Worker

Ethel Laura……………….aged 20……..born Norwich……Fitter in Boot Trade

Arthur…………………….aged 16……..born Norwich……Clicker in Boot Trade

 

*********************************Private Fred Simpson******************************

 

Name: SIMPSON, FREDERICK

Rank: Private

Regiment: Norfolk Regiment Unit Text: 1st Bn.

Age: 27 Date of Death: 14/09/1914

Service No: 6704

Additional information: Son of Mrs. E. Simpson, of 92, Calvert St., Norwich.

Memorial: LA FERTE-SOUS-JOUARRE MEMORIAL

CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=724054

 

No match on Norlink

 

The 13 year old Frederick, born Norwich and already employed as a Labourer on “”Cord Ground???”

is recorded on the 1901 census at 174 Armes Street, in the Parish of St Bartholomews. His mother, Eliza, (aged 41, married and from Norwich), is listed as the head of household. Her other children are:-

Arthur……………aged 6.……………born Norwich

Caroline………….aged 11.…………..born Norwich

Eliza……………..aged 18.…………..born Norwich…….Coat Machinist

Ellen……………..aged 16.…………..born Norwich…….Coat Machinist

Rose……………..aged 3.……………born Norwich

William…………..aged 20.………….born Norwich………Boot Clicker

 

On the 1891 census, the family are recorded at 21 Neal Square, St Benedict. Frederick is listed as Freddy, and is father Henry, then aged 32 is listed as the head of household. He is from Norwich and works as a Painter. On the 1901 census he is to be found in lodgings in Bournemouth, still described as a Painter. Other lodgers includes another painter from Bungay, and a Carpenter from Essex, so presumably they were down there looking for work.

 

I don’t have access to the War diary of the 1st Norfolks for the period, but looking at the War Diary for a fellow divisional unit, the 1st Dorsets, the 15th Brigade were sent in to attack the German positions on the Chevres Spur around noon. The 1st Dorsets should have been with them, but were held up by shelling.

At 6.30 pm, the Dorset were advised that the attack had failed.

 

Additionally, the 1st Norfolks get a mention in a war memoir by a German Officer.. It seems a patrol of the 1st Norfolks sent out the evening of the 14th. They went too far into the woods held by the German troops and were ambushed and all killed in hand to hand fighting.

 

"Advance from Mons" by Walter Bloehm mentions the clash with the 1st Norfolks. A patrol of 34 officers and men were reported missing after they went forward around Chivres Ridge. Captain Walter Bloehm heard the clash but was not involved directly. He was told about it by a Sgt. Next day he led a patrol and came upon the bodies of the British soldiers.

1914-1918.invisionzone.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=84736

 

Update October 2014

 

The Medal Index card for Private 6704 Frederick Simpson, Norfolk Regiment, is held at the National Archive under reference WO 372/18/76112

discovery.nationalarchives.gov.uk/details/r/D5167594

 

On the 1911 census Private Frederick Simpson, aged 25 and from Norwich, is recorded in barracks at Aldershot, where he is stationed with the 1st Norfolk Regiment.

 

The soldier who died in 1914 is recorded on SDGW as born St Margarets, Norwich. There is no place of residence shown but he enlisted in Norwich. He is recorded as Killed in Action.

 

**************************Private Edward J Sizer***********************************

 

Also a full panel dedication.

 

“Sacred to the memory of Edward Sizer R.A.S.C.

Teacher and an esteemed member of this choir

Who died on active service in Salonika

On the 22nd September 1918”

 

Name: SIZER, EDWARD JAMES

Rank: Private

Service: Army Service Corps Unit Text: 228th Bde. Train

Age: 27

Date of Death: 22/09/1918

Service No: S/307337

Additional information: Son of Fickess and Bessie Ann Sizer, of Holly Lodge, Telegraph Lane West, Thorpe Hamlet, Norwich.

Grave/Memorial Reference: A. 140. Cemetery: SARIGOL MILITARY CEMETERY, KRISTON

CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=332126

 

From April to June 1917, the 35th Casualty Clearing Station was at Sarigol. It was replaced by the 21st Stationary Hospital, which remained until December 1918. From these two hospitals, 150 burials were made in the cemetery, many of them men who had been wounded in the Allied attack on the Grand-Couronne and Pip Ridge in April-May 1917, and September 1918. In February 1921, 560 graves were brought into Sarigol from Janes Military Cemetery, a few miles to the north, and serving the same front. The cemetery at Janes was on low ground, and, under the normal conditions of this region, it was found difficult to approach and almost impossible to maintain in good order. With a few exceptions, the burials were made from 31st Casualty Clearing Station between August 1916 and October 1918.

CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/cemetery_details.aspx?cemetery=34800&...

 

No match on Norlink

 

The 9 year old Edward, born Canning Town, Essex, can be found on the 1901 census at 8 Primrose Road, in the Parish of Thorpe, St Matthew. This is the household of his parents, George, (aged 47, and an Excavator from Barrington, Cambridge), and Bessie, (aged 42 and from Georgeham, Devon). Their other children are:-

Ada…………………….aged 16.…………….born Holloway, London………….Dressmaker

Agnes…………………..aged 6.……………..born Cromer, Norfolk

Bessie………………….aged 7.………………born Dorking, Surrey

Kate……………………aged 13.…………….born Isleworth, Middlesex

Rose……………………aged 11.……………born Canning Town, Essex.

 

28th Divisional Train ASC 120, 21, 122 and 123 Companies ASC joined from 13th Division in November 1915

 

The list of Divisional engagements for 1918 was

18-19 September 1918: the Battle of Doiran

22-28 September 1918: the pursuit to the Strumica valley

www.1914-1918.net/28div.htm

 

(However, it should be noted that this was a theatre where more men died as a result of disease, especially in the hot summer months, than as a result of enemy action).

 

Update October 2014

 

Both Edward Sizer and his father appear to absent on the night of the 1911 census. His mother and sisters do appear, and are recorded at 15 Chalk Hill Road, Norwich. Bessie has completed the forms but gives her relationship to the head of the household as wife. She and her husband have been married 33 years and have had 11 children, of which 7 were then still alive.

Still at home are:-

Alice………….aged 32…..born Cirencester, Glos….Norwich Town Council Elementary Teacher

Ada……………aged 26…born Holloway, Middx….Dressmaker

Kate………….aged 23…..bornIsleworth, Middx…… Norwich Town Council Elementary Teacher

Rose………….aged 21…..born Plaistow, Essex…….Haberdahsers Drapery Assistant

Bessie…………aged 17…born Dorking, Surrey…….Teaching Student

Agnes…………aged 16….born Cromer, Norfolk……Hosiery apprentice

 

The Medal Index Card for Private S/307337 Edward J Sizer, Army Service Corps, is held at the National Archive under reference number WO 372/18/89902

discovery.nationalarchives.gov.uk/details/r/D5181384

 

********************************Private William Stock**********************************

 

10 possible matches on the CWGC database

 

No match on Norlink

 

The most likely match on the 1901 census, is a Private William Stock, aged 19 and from Somerset, recorded in the Norwich Barracks. On the high level search of the 1911 census, there are 4 William Stocks of the right age who give their birthplaces as being in Somerset. There are no new individuals recorded with a Norfolk connection and of a likely age to have served in the Great War.

 

The Genes Re-united transcription of the 1911 census for England and Wales does not have anyone of a likely age to have served in the Great War with the surname Stock, first or middle name William, and who is associated with Norwich. There is a Gorleston lad, born circa 1897 who was recorded in Aylsham, a Gt Yarmouth man born circa 1885 recorded at Sculcoates, (as are several other Stocks previously from Norfolk), and a Lancashire man born circa 1868 who was recorded at Acle.

 

Update 2014 William Stock continues to elude me. The 19 year old soldier from Somerset in Barracks on the night of the 1901 census doesn’t really give us much to go on. There is a 30 year old William Herbert whose parents lived in Frome, Somerset who died in Egypt whilst serving with the 2nd/7th Battalion of the Northumberland Fusiliers.but that did happen until 1919, so that doesn’t tie up with the age of the 1911 census. There is also a 32 year old Trooper in the Household Battalion who died in 1917 and who has connections with Bath.

 

*****************************Private James Stock*********************************

 

10 possible matches on the CWGC database

 

No match on Norlink

 

The only Norfolk match on the 1901 census is a 28 year old married men, residing at 83 Shadwell Street, Norwich, in the parish of St Stephens and self-employed as a General Dealer. He is married to Martha, aged 27 and who gives her place of birth as Hickingham, Norfolk. (A quick google shows no such place, also a number of genealogy\family history sites have references to individuals being born there, with at least one stating its in Suffolk). Presumably that’s either a corruption of the more common name, or the place has disappeared as a settlement. Their other children are:-

Bertie J. (see below)…………………aged 3.…………..born Norwich

Leonard A……………………………aged 1.…………..born Norwich

Violet M……………………………..aged 4.…………..born Norwich.

 

The baptism of Bertie James took place at St Stephens church on the 8th May 1898 at St Stephens Church. His date of birth is given as the 1st April 1898. His parents are listed as James and Martha, with James working as a Fish Hawker. The family reside at Crookes Place on Queens Street, (suspect that should be Queens Road, given the location, although as a result of the 1960‘s redevelopment of the area, a lot of streets have disappeared or been re-named).

 

So there is a possibility that Private James Stock could be Bertie James.

 

However, while there are two Bertie Stocks listed on the CWGC database, neither have any additional information that would serve to resolve the matter either way.

 

Using the above information, we are then left with only one possibility.

 

Prime candidate

Name: STOCK, JAMES

Rank: Private

Regiment: Welsh Guards Unit Text: 1st Bn.

Date of Death: 01/12/1917

Service No: 3121

Grave/Memorial Reference: Panel 3. Memorial: CAMBRAI MEMORIAL, LOUVERVAL

CWGC: www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=1757101

 

1st December 1917

 

The attack on Gauche Wood and Gonnelieu

 

Attacking Gauche Wood from the south-west the 18th King George's Own Lancers fought on foot. The tanks who were supposed to accompany them were late in arriving (0715 hours) and then lost direction in the grey morning light.

 

The Lancers though advanced into the wood where they found men from the 2nd Grenadier Guards already fighting their way in from Gouzeaucourt. Machine gun nests were dealt with by the returning tanks who patrolled the perimeter of the wood.

 

To get into the wood the Grenadiers had chosen the tactic of running as fast as they could. The German gunners couldn't get the range right and the casualties had been light. With all of their senior officers gone the Grenadiers put themselves under the direction of the Lancers who organised the consolidation of Gauche Wood. The Lancers may well have been an Indian Army Regiment but needless to say all their officers were British!

 

Attacking the Quentin Mill (from which General de Lisle had made his hasty exit the day before) the 3rd Coldstream Guards and four tanks from H Battalion had little difficulty in gaining their objective though at the cost of three of the tanks.

 

3rd Guards Brigade had been given the objective of taking Gonnelieu itself and attacked with the 1st Welsh Guards on the right and the 4th Grenadier Guards on the left.

 

The Welshmen were brought to a halt at the top of the ridge in front of Gonnelieu with two thirds of their men being downed by the constant stream of fire from German Machine Gun positions in the old British trenches.

 

At this moment the only surviving tank of four with the battalion rolled into action cruising along the trench spraying the Germans with all her Lewis guns. The Germans began to surrender and the Welshmen seized the opportunity to grab the crest of the ridge.

 

The 4th Grenadiers managed to fight their way into Gonnelieu village but they arrived just as the Germans themselves had been preparing their next assault and were thus feeding the area with reinforcements. Faced by superior numbers the Grenadiers withdrew to a covering position alongside the Welsh Guards.

 

Captain George Paton received a posthumous Victoria Cross for his part in numerous counter attacks in the face of heavy machine gun fire until he was mortally wounded. He is buried in Metz en Couture Military Cemetery.

www.webmatters.net/france/ww1_cambrai_btl_11.htm

 

Update October 2014

 

James Stock throws up an intriguing possibility. There is a 12 year old James Henry, born St Peter Permountergate, Norwich, who was recorded on the 1911 census at No.7 Stepping Lane, Norwich. This is the household of his Step-father, William Cooper, (aged 39 and a Brick-layers Labourer from St Clement without, Norwich) and mother, Harriet, (aged 37 and from St Peter Permountergate, Norwich). The couple have been married 10 years and have had 4 children, of which 2 were then still alive. As well as James Stock, the other son in the household is William Cooper, (aged 6 and born St Clement without).

 

So could the William Stock recorded at St Augustines actually be William Cooper – unfortunately there are 8 soldiers with a connection to Norwich and none has the additional information that could disprove this theory.

 

**********************************Private William Tidd*********************************

 

Probably

Name: TIDD, WILLIAM

Rank: ……………………………………………..Private

Regiment: ………………………………………..York and Lancaster Regiment, 1st Bn.

Date of Death:…………………………………… 23/04/1915

Service No: ………………………………………9601

Grave/Memorial Reference: Panel 36 and 55. Memorial: YPRES (MENIN GATE) MEMORIAL

CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=1626522

 

No match on Norlink

 

The 11 year old William Tidd, born Norwich, is recorded on the 1901 census at 1 Bucks Yard, St Marys, in the parish of St Marys, Coslany. This is the household of his parents, John Tidd, (aged 42 and a Malsters Labourer from Norwich), and Elizabeth, (aged 40 and from Norwich) Their other children are:-

Eliza…………………….aged u/1.………………..born Norwich

Elizabeth……………….aged 6.…………………..born Norwich

Emma…………………..aged 3.………………….born Norwich

Florence M……………..aged 8.………………….born Norwich

John…………………….aged 14.…………………born Norwich…………Shoemaker

 

A list of the battles and engagements for the 28th Division, (of which the 1st York and Lancs were part, includes:-

Battle of Gravenstaffel. 22-23 Apr 1915.

Battle of St. Julien. 24 Apr-5 May 1915.

warpath.orbat.com/divs/28_div.htm

 

The Battle of Gravenstafel Ridge, 22 - 23 April 1915

Following the discharge of poisonous gas at 5pm on 22 April, a strong German infantry attack was made against the two French divisions defending the north of the Salient on the five mile front between the Ypres-Poelcapelle road and Steenstraat on the Yser canal.

The French quickly withdrew and the advancing Germans rapidly occupied Langemarck and Pilckem and, further west, threatened Steenstraat and Het Sas on the canal.

 

Although not immediately attacked, 1st Canadian Division, to the right of the French, opposed further German forward movements with artillery and smallarms fire and immediately sent for reserves to shore-up their now undefended left flank; by 7.30pm German attackers were digging-in on newly won ground. As night fell Canadian forces, refusing to 'budge' despite gas and shell fire, improvised an outpost defence system across the open land towards the canal while Second Army Commander appealed for a French counter-attack to restore the situation.

An attack promised for early the following morning was assisted (in anticipation, at midnight) by the successful Canadian seizure of Kitchener’s Wood; but the French response never materialised and the Canadians were forced to retire. Throughout the night British reserves were scraped together in anticipation of further German attacks on 23 April. The early morning saw an attempt to dislodge the Germans from Mauser Ridge which failed with many casualties – though a line of sorts was established to within 1,200 yards of the canal. Later, in anticipation and support of the still-promised French counter-thrust, 13th Brigade was ordered to make a general attack towards Pilckem but this assault, when launched at 4.25pm, was a disastrous failure and all forward movement halted by 7pm. By nightfall the commitment of all available reserves helped establish a new front on the exposed flank – but little ground had been regained.

www.cwgc.org/ypres/content.asp?menuid=35&submenuid=36...

 

There is a lot of information available on line about the actions on the 22nd, but to date little about the 23rd.

i.e 22nd April 19.15 20.00

Response of the British 28th and 27th Divisions to the German attack

As soon as the German attack was launched the commander of 28th Division, General Bulfin, and the commander of 27th Division, General Snow, made immediate arrangements to move some of their reserve battalions to assist the Canadians on their left

 

1st Battalion York and Lancaster Regiment (28th Division; 83rd Brigade reserve): The battalion had been located north-west of Ypres, south of the Ypres-Brielen road. It was under orders to set off on the move to reinforce St. Jean.

www.greatwar.co.uk/westfront/ypsalient/secondypres/graven...

 

www.greatwar.co.uk/westfront/ypsalient/secondypres/graven...

 

Update November 2014

 

William Tidd.There are now two possibles on the 1911 census, including a 31 year old married man from Norwich, living nearby at Afghan Place, and a 30 year old married man from Norwich, William James, who was living with his wife and 7 year old daughter in the household of his father-in-law at Docking, Norfolk.

 

Private 9601 William Tidd is recorded on SDGW as Killed in Action on the 23rd April 1915 whilst serving with the 1st Battalion York and Lancaster Regiment. He was born St Mary’s Norwich, and while no place of residence is recorded, he did enlist in Norwich.

 

The Medal Index Card for Private 9601 William Tidd is held at the National Archive under reference WO 372/20/28664

discovery.nationalarchives.gov.uk/details/r/D5570694

 

*****************************Private Harold A V Miller******************************

 

Name: MILLER, HAROLD ALFRED VICTOR

Rank: ………………………………………………Private

Regiment: ………………………………………….Norfolk Regiment, "C" Coy. 9th Bn.

Age: ……………………………………………….21

Date of Death:……………………………………. 08/10/1918

Service No: ………………………………………14737

Additional information: Son of Harry Denton Miller and Alice Kiera Miller, of 13, Angel Rd., St. Augustines, Norwich.

Grave/Memorial Reference: Panel 4. Memorial: VIS-EN-ARTOIS MEMORIAL

CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=1746784

 

There is a picture of Harold, of the 9th Norfolks, on Norlink

norlink.norfolk.gov.uk/02_Catalogue/02_013_PictureTitleIn...

Additional info given is that Private Miller was born in Acle on 11th May 1897, and educated at Pulham Market School and Surrey Street School, Norwich. He enlisted on 1st September 1914, and was killed in action in France on 8th October 1918

 

The 3 year Harold, born Acle, is recorded on the 1901 census at 239 Raglan Street, Lowestoft. This is the household of his parents, Harry, (aged 35 and a Baker & Confectioner from Norwich), and Alice, (aged 34 and from Castle Acre, Norfolk). Their other children are:-

Denton…………………aged 5.……………….born Gt Yarmouth

Dorothy…………………aged u/1.…………….born Lowestoft

 

By 1911, the family were in Norwich.

 

8th October 1918

 

General attack towards Bohain - 71st Infantry Brigade on left, 16th Infantry Brigade on right, 18th Infantry Brigade in Divisional Reserve with West Yorks (attached to 16th Infantry Brigade) attacking up the valley, French on right - all objectives gained by night. Took over part of line by night from 30th American Division and handed over part to 46th Division

www.archive.org/stream/hist6thdivision00marduoft/hist6thd...

 

Update November 2014

 

SDGW records Private 14737 Harold Miller as Killed in action on the 8th October 1918 whilst serving with the 9th Battalion, Norfolk Regiment. He was born acle, Norfolk and while there is no place of residence recorded he did enlist in Norwich.

 

The Government Probate Service has a Soldiers will for 14737 who died on the 8th October 1918.

probatesearch.service.gov.uk/Wills?Surname=Miller&Sur...

 

On the 1911 census the family were at 121 Ber Street, Norwich. The 13 year old Harold Alfred Victor, born Acle, was still at school. Parents Harry Denton, (aged 45 and a Journeyman Baker) and Alice, (aged 44), have been married for 16 years and have had 6 children, of which 5 were then still alive. Still at home are:-

Denton Harry………….aged 15….born Yarmouth, Norfolk…….Errand Boy

Annie Eunice………….aged 9……born Lowestoft, Suffolk

Beatrice Maud…………aged 7……born Methwold, Norfolk

Gracie Elizabeth………aged 6…….born Methwold, Norfolk

 

*****************************Private Albert Want********************************

 

Name: WANT, ALBERT

Rank: …………………………………………..Private

Regiment: ……………………………………..Norfolk Regiment, 1st Bn.

Age: ……………………………………………35

Date of Death:………………………………… 01/08/1916

Service No:……………………………………. 6731

Additional information: Son of James Want, of 5, Esdelle St., St. Augustines, Norwich.

Grave/Memorial Reference: Pier and Face 1 C and 1 D.

Memorial: THIEPVAL MEMORIAL

CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=819057

 

No match on Norlink

 

There is no obvious match for an Albert Want with a Norwich connection on the Genes Re-united transcription of the 1901 Census for England and Wales. This is however two matches on the 1911 transcription - one born circa 1902 in Norwich, and one born 1916 in Norwich - both supposedly too young to have died fighting in the Great War.

 

The most likely match on the 1901 census for his father, James Want, is a 54 year old Boot Sewer from St Faiths, Norwich, recorded at 7, Esdelle Street, in the Parish of St Augustines. His wife is Emma, (aged 55 and from Norwich). Their other children are:-

Arthur……………….aged 23.……………Born Sprowston, Norfolk…………..Boot Maker

Ethel…………………aged 14.……………Born Norwich………………………Boot Machinist

Florence……………..aged 13.……………Born Norwich

James……………….aged 25.…………….Born Sprowston, Norfolk………….Boot Maker

 

The Want’s also have a Grand-son living with them, Terence Want, aged 4 and born Norwich.

 

James and Emma are on the 1891 census already living at 7 Esdelle Street. As well as then children listed above, they also have, John, (aged 22), Alice, (aged 19), Emma, (aged 17) as well as Albert, who was then aged 8.

 

The 1st Bedfords, a battalion in the same Brigade, were in action at Longueval on the 31st, but encountered stiff resistance. That Battalions War Diary notes:-

The position taken up could be seen from the opposite ridge & any movement attracted heavy shell fire. There was also considerable sniping from the direction of FLERS Rd. 6.0. P.M. 1/NORFOLK RGT. arrived and relieved 2/K.O.S.B. and the forward BEDF. coys, who were moved back to reserve position E. of Church. 10.30 P.M.

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

 

 

to be continued

Done