View allAll Photos Tagged Tailoress
FFF+ Snap Happy is a group for FFF images that reflect positivity, happiness, joy and beauty only. Gary chose the theme Material this week.
For this theme I went literal and picked a material that was really important to me. I decided on my wedding dress. Of course it is important because I wore it when I married my amazing man but even more so because of who made it.
My best friend’s mother-Jill.
I met Jill when I was about 4. My mother visited her to have something made. Jill was an amazing tailoress. She had a daughter my age and they lived around the corner. We became best friends and still are. Her family was my family and I love them dearly.
She made so many of my clothes growing up and as a young mother when I couldn’t afford fancy things- a camel coloured coat, a sports jacket, my high school dance dress and clothes for my children. She was also a talented embroider.
Both my parents had died before I got married, my mother only 8 months before. Jill stepped in as always and supported me throughout. He husband ‘gave me away’. Jill made my bridesmaids dresses as well as my wedding dress-Ivory Duchess Satin, expensive lace, a long train with scalloped lace edging, three layers of tulle and petticoat. Every single one of the 100s of pearls was hand- beaded into the lace bodice. The dress was her wedding gift to me.
Jill no longer remembers making this.
She no longer remembers me.
Jill has Alzheimer's.
She no longer remembers how to sew, how to hold a needle and thread or even the person she was.
But I do.
I will remember for her.
I don't usually put up two images so no need to comment on both. I was just so disappointed in my photos as I had such grand plans but have picked my favourites out of the many I took. I really wanted you to see the beading on the lace bodice to understand the work Jill put into this dress,
FFF+ Snap Happy is a group for FFF images that reflect positivity, happiness, joy and beauty only. Gary chose the theme Material this weeks challenge.
For this theme I went literal and picked a material that was really important to me. I decided on my wedding dress. Of course it is important because I wore it when I married my amazing man but even more so because of who made it.
My best friend’s mother-Jill.
I met Jill when I was about 4. My mother visited her to have something made. Jill was an amazing tailoress. She had a daughter my age and they lived around the corner. We became best friends and still are. Her family was my family and I love them dearly.
She made so many of my clothes growing up and as a young mother when I couldn’t afford fancy things- a camel coloured coat, a sports jacket, my high school dance dress and clothes for my children. She was also a talented embroider.
Both my parents had died before I got married, my mother only 8 months before. Jill stepped in as always and supported me throughout. He husband ‘gave me away’. Jill made my bridesmaids dresses as well as my wedding dress-Ivory Duchess Satin, expensive lace, a long train with scalloped lace edging, three layers of tulle and petticoat. Every single one of the 100s of pearls was hand- beaded into the lace bodice. The dress was her wedding gift to me.
Jill no longer remembers making this.
She no longer remembers me.
Jill has Alzheimer's.
She no longer remembers how to sew, how to hold a needle and thread or even the person she was.
But I do.
I will remember for her.
So while there is grief associated with this beautiful material, there are also so many memories of my talented, kind and generous second mother.
Seymour Joseph Guy (American, born England, 1824-1910)
Oil on canvas
Portland Art Museum
I photographed this painting precisely because it is the sort of sentimental Victoriana I would ordinarily avoid. I took a picture of the piece because I wanted to confront it and myself to help shed my prejudices.
I got more than I bargained for.
Out of curiosity, and with few expectations of learning anything, I googled the subject's name. To my surprise, I found an article about Adèle, her family and her husband written by one Diana Bailey Harris. Diana, as it happens, is both the donor who gave the painting to the Portland Art Museum and a relative of Adèle's.
What follows is a version of Diana's article that I edited for the sake of brevity. I recommend following the link to the original publication because there you will find vintage photos of Adèle, her parents and her future husband.
All About Adèle
A large portrait painted in 1861 by noted New York artist Seymour Joseph Guy of Adèle de la Lanceu came to Portlander Diana Bailey Harris from her mother in 1992, but the girl’s story had been lost for decades.
Diana and her sister learned that Adèle had married Thomas Newton Murphy, a veteran of the Civil War. Their eldest son, Charles Frederick Murphy, an attorney and New York state senator, was Diana’s grandfather’s cousin. Charles’ wife Jeanette – who had given Diana’s mother the painting – was active in civic affairs.
Adèle’s father transformed his French name, Juste Le Breton dit La Lancet, into Wright Lance. Born in 1817, he was well-educated and taught school in Canada before moving to New York, where he “engaged in the construction of saw mills.” His September, 1897, obituary stated: Mr. Lance…erected and operated the first steam sawmill in Chateaugay about half a century ago, and…engaged in the lumber business in the Saranac valleys…leaves a widow, Adeline, and nine living children: Julia (b. 1844), Mary Adeline (b. 1845), Harriet Elmira (b. 1847), Edward (b. 1850), Adèle (b. 1854), Abram (b. 1856), Frank (b. 1859), William (b. 1861), and Emma Marguerite (b. 1864).
It turned out that Diana’s great-grandmother, Marguerite de Lance Gregory was Adèle’s baby sister.
Wright and Adeline Lance were not wealthy; his occupation is listed as “sawyer,” “files saws at mill” and “boss filer” in Census Reports. The teenage daughters at home are noted as “tailoress,” “seamstress” and “milliner.” Their mother Adeline must have taught them and made the intricately pleated, eyelet-embroidered dress in the painting.
The artist probably visited Plattsburgh, where the Lances lived, but Adèle would not have posed for the portrait. Like many artists of the time, Guy photographed his subjects and their surroundings, then created the painting in his studio.
The Lance family home was a couple of blocks from Lake Champlain; Guy embellished it with a forest background. Adèle and her Newfoundland likely played and waded along the shore. In the painting, the Newfie eagerly waits for her to throw the red ball far out into Lake Champlain. Adèle was eager, too; she didn’t even change clothes after church. The ring on her finger and exquisite dress tell us that she has made First Communion.
Twelve years later, 19-year-old Adèle married the 28-year-old lawyer Thomas Newton Murphy. Diana found that “At…sixteen…Murphy enlisted…in the Union army…participated in Sherman’s March to the Sea …lost his left arm in the battle of Pine Knob, Georgia…admitted to the bar in 1870…began practicing law in Plattsburgh…married Adèle in 1873.”
He took Adèle 80 miles northwest from a bustling town of several thousand to live in a small village near where he grew up. They had seven children over the next 18 years.
Their house had a separate side entrance for his ground-floor office and a second side entrance to the back stairs. As was customary, Adèle’s bedroom and sitting room were at the top of these stairs. Thomas also bought a farm outside town and brought in a tenant to manage it. An itinerant lawyer who went from town to town about the county, Thomas spent less and less time at home.
He filed for divorce on June 20, 1898, claiming Adèle had committed adultery with four men “at diverse times” and was “a prostitute for pay.” He demanded sole custody of the three youngest children.
Adèle’s great-great-granddaughter Jo Ann sent Diana her typed transcript of handwritten court records. Testimony given by Thomas and the farm tenant must have been have been humiliating, yet Adèle refuted the accusations in court and countered that Thomas was the adulterer.
However, the judge awarded custody to Thomas and decreed that he could marry again, but Adèle could not. Thomas took the children to Michigan, where his mother lived, and married Addie Crandall, the “other woman.” That marriage lasted a year.
He returned to New York with the children. Then, it seems, everyone but Thomas and Adèle tried to disguise the fact of the divorce. Adèle died in 1917 and Thomas in 1929. Their eldest son Charles, who arranged both burials in Plattsburgh, N.Y., ensured they shared the same headstone.
Wright Lance gave the portrait to Adèle; she gave it to Charles and Jeanette; Jeanette gave it to Diana's mother in 1960.
Source:http://www.antiquetrader.com/articles/building-family-stories-data-conjecture/
=====================
About the Artist
"Seymour Joseph Guy established a reputation in the United States in the mid-nineteenth century as one of the finest genre painters of children. His primarily cabinet-sized pictures were esteemed by his fellow artists and leading collectors of American art.
He was widely respected for his technical ability and knowledge of the science of painting, but with the emergence of a younger generation of European-trained artists in the 1880s, Guy’s meticulous and smoothly polished scenes of childhood began to fall out of fashion. In recent decades his art and talent have been reappraised by museums, scholars, and collectors of early American art, but up to now almost nothing has been published about his life and career."
If you want to learn more about Guy, follow this link and you'll find a detailed account of his life and his works.
Wilfred Claude Edwards was born at 76 Vauxhall Street, Heigham, Norwich, Norfolk on 16th. February 1893 as Wilfred Claude Fox. His father Charles, a master tailor married Kate Mary Kelter, a tailoress in January 1892, at St. Clement’s Chapel, Norwich. Charles and Kate had five children, but two did not survive infancy and as a result Wilfred was left with two sisters, Kate Louisa and Amy Lilian. By 1901, Kate was living in Leeds, West Yorkshire with her children, but not her husband, and her surname was now Edwards. In 1911, her name had reverted to Fox and she was a housekeeper. It is believed Charles ran into financial problems, changed his surname to Edwards and moved to Tunbridge Wells, Kent without his family to start a new business. By the 1911 Census, he was living in Keighley, Yorkshire with his 'wife' Clarice and two sons. He would marry Clarice in 1917, stating he was a widower. He and Clarice had four children in total.
Wilfred was educated at Park Lane Council School, Leeds. After his schooling he was employed as a tailor and from the summer of 1914 as a miner at Waterloo Main Colliery, Leeds. He enlisted on 4th. September 1914 and carried out basic training at Albuhera Barracks, Aldershot. He went to France on 26th. August 1915, was wounded in October and was evacuated to Hoddesdon Military Hospital, Rose Hill, Hertfordshire. Having returned to the front in February 1916, he was wounded again in July and sent to convalesce in Colchester, Essex, he rejoined his unit in January 1917.
On 16th. August 1917 at Langemarck, Belgium, Private Edwards, without hesitation and under heavy machine-gun and rifle fire from a strong concrete fort, dashed forward at great personal risk, bombed through the loopholes, surmounted the fort and waved to his company to advance. Three officers and 30 other ranks were taken prisoner by him in the fort. Later he did most valuable work as a runner and eventually guided most of the battalion out through very difficult ground.
He received a card from his Commanding Officer congratulating him on his 'fine behaviour' but he wrote to his wife in frustration: “Men in my battalion keep getting honours, but I have not heard a word about mine.” His wife was besieged by reporters following the announcement of his VC, but insisted she knew no details of his action. The VC was presented to him by King George V in the forecourt of Buckingham Palace on 26th. September 1917. He was nervous about meeting the King, and forgot to salute, which caused the King some amusement.
Citation.
The London Gazette 14th. September 1917 (Supplement: 30284).
No. 13303 Pte. Wilfred Edwards K.O.Y.L.I. (Leeds).
For most conspicuous bravery when under heavy machine gun and rifle fire from a strong concrete fort Having lost all his company officers, without hesitation he dashed forward at great personal risk, bombed through the loopholes surmounted the fort, and waved to his company to advance. By his splendid example he saved a most critical situation at a time when the whole battalion was held up and a leader urgently needed. Three officers and thirty other, ranks were taken prisoner by him in the fort. Later, Pte. Edwards did most valuable work as a runner, and he eventually guided most of the battalion out through very difficult ground. Throughout he set a splendid personal example to all, and was utterly regardless of danger.
On 10th. October 1917, he received a hero’s welcome in Victoria Square, Leeds and was handed a cheque for £200 raised by public subscription. He was also given a silver watch by his old school.
Wilfred returned to Britain in December 1917 for officer training and was entertained at the Town Hall, Leeds with Private William Boynton Butler VC. He was commissioned into 4th. King’s Own Yorkshire Light Infantry on 3st. July 1918, but relinquished his commission on 17th. June 1919 due to ill health caused by war wounds. He married Belinda Timlin at Mount St Mary’s Church, Leeds on 20th February 1915. She was a press feeder in a printing firm and a munitions worker during the war. Due to his war wounds, Wilfrid was unable to have children, and he and Belinda adopted two daughters, Winifred Joan (born 1922, adopted 1927), and Valerie Blodwen (born 1926, adopted 1936).
After the war, Wilfred returned to mining, although assessed as 60% disabled. He then worked at Leeds Gas Department showrooms in Leeds, as did William Butler VC. On 16th. November 1929 he attended the funeral of John Raynes VC with ten other Yorkshire VC's. Wilfrid was granted a Regular Army Emergency Commission in the Royal Army Ordnance Corps as a Lieutenant on 2nd. January 1941. He was promoted to Temporary Captain in 1944. Immediately after the war he ran a Ford factory in Germany and after demobilisation he worked for a firm of accountants and later at car and tractor manufactures David Brown’s factory at Farsley, near Pudsey, Yorkshire. He was granted the Freedom of Leeds in 1950.
Wilfrid died at St. James’ Hospital, Leeds on 2nd. January 1972, the last surviving KOYLI VC. He was buried in Upper and Lower Wortley Cemetery, Leeds (Section M Grave 42).
In addition to his VC, he was awarded -
1914-15 Star
British War Medal 1914-20
Victory Medal 1914-19,
Defence Medal 1939-45
War Medal 1939-45
George VI Coronation Medal 1937
Elizabeth II Coronation Medal 1953.
In his will he left the VC to York Castle Museum but the other medals are on loan to the King’s Own Yorkshire Light Infantry Museum, Doncaster.
This commemorative stone is laid at the Norwich War Memorial outside City Hall. At the unveiling in August 2017 a statement read out on behalf of Wilfred Edwards' grandson, David Craven, said
'Wilfred was an 'extremely kind and gentle man. Wilfred was shy and quiet and didn't want any fuss. He found it hard to talk about his war experiences but on the very rare occasions he did he would always play down his role and say his actions were out of necessity'.
Written on the verso: Elizabeth Cornell, Mrs. Swan.
Elizabeth Cornell was born circa 1846 in Massachusetts. Her father, name unknown, was an Irish immigrant, and her mother, Eliza N. (last name unknown, circa 1801 - 1885), was a native of Massachusetts. The only census record I found was for 1880, when Elizabeth Cornell Swan was living with her mother in Brooklyn, New York; she listed her occupation as tailoress. I didn’t find any other information about her.
Photographer Andrew Jordan worked for renowned NY photographer Abraham Bogardus. He took the Greenwich location when Bogardus relocated. The CDV verso indicates that the studio was established in 1846.
The Memorial service and dedication of the war memorial cross at St Matthew's Church Thorpe Hamlet, took place on the September 25th 1921, including roll of honour. I assume this was at the old St Matthews, down off Riverside Road, and that the Cross has subsequently been re-located.
The new church was built in 1982 to replace the old Victorian church (built 1851 and now converted to offices) on St Matthew's Rd and St Leonards 'Chapel of Ease' on Ketts Hill (built 1907, demolished in 1981)
www.thorpehamlet.free-online.co.uk/page_st_matthews.htm
*****Panel 3*****
H H Rose
Name: ROSE, HENRY HAMMOND
Rank: Private
Regiment: Norfolk Regiment
Unit Text: 10th Bn.
Age: 21
Date of Death: 09/03/1915
Service No: 16353
Additional information: Son of Henry Hammond Rose and Rosa Ann Rose, of 26, Kerrison Rd., Thorpe, Norwich.
Cemetery: FELIXSTOWE (WALTON) CEMETERY
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=397225
The 7 year old Henry, born Trowse, is recorded on the 1901 census at 13 School Terrace, Trowse,
Norfolk. This is the household of his parents, Henry, (aged 40 and a Fitter in Electrical Works from Trowse) and Rosa, (aged 43 and from Eyke, Suffolk). Their other children are:-
Agnes……………aged 12.…………..born Yarmouth, Norfolk
Edward…………..aged 2.……………born Trowse
Ellen……………..aged 12.…………..born Yarmouth
Ethel……………..aged 9.……………born Trowse
Gladys……………aged 5.……………born Trowse
10th (Reserve) Battalion
Formed in Walton on the Naze in October 1914 as Service battalion, part of K4.
November 1914 : attached to 94th Brigade, original 31st Division.
10 April 1915 : became a Reserve battalion.
www.1914-1918.net/norfolks.htm
The death of Henry H., aged 21, was recorded in the Woodbridge, Suffolk District in the January to March 1915 quarter.
(see April 2017 comment below for update)
M Rowe
No obvious match on CWGC, Norlink or Military Genealogy.
Military Genealogy has two James Rowe’s who were born Norwich.
No obvious match on the 1901 or 1911 censuses.
A W Ryder
Military Genealogy has an Archibald Walter, born St Thomas’s Norwich.
Name: RYDER, ARCHIBALD WALTER
Rank: Private
Regiment: Norfolk Regiment
Unit Text: 9th Bn.
Date of Death: 26/09/1915
Service No: 3/10213
Grave/Memorial Reference: Panel 30 and 31. Memorial: LOOS MEMORIAL
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=1768339
Archibald can be seen here
norlink.norfolk.gov.uk/02_Catalogue/02_013_PictureTitleIn...
Additional Norlink notes
Private Ryder was born in Norwich on 15th January 1893. He enlisted on 14th December 1914, and was killed on 26th September 1915
Archibald is recorded as aged 11 on the 1901 census, which doesn’t tie in with the Date of Birth given on Norlink, however he is the only Archibald shown with a Norwich connection. He was born Norwich, and recorded at 7 Cardiff Road, in the Parish of St Thomas’s. This is the household of his parents, Thomas (aged 63 and a Pensioner from Cambridge, noted as paralysed) and Ellen, aged 39 and a Laundress from Shemley Green, Surrey. Their other children are:-
Ernest C…………..aged 7.………….born Norwich
Frederick………….aged 17.………..born Norwich……Grocers Errand Boy
Mabel……………..aged 14.………..born Norwich
Rosa M……………aged 2.…………born Norwich
The 9th (Service) Battalion was formed at Norwich in September 1914 as part of K3, Kitcheners Third Army. In September 1914 it was attached to the 71st Brigade, 24th Division. The Battalion was assembled around Shoreham during September 1914 and it then spent 11 months in training after formation. Uniforms, equipment and blankets were slow in arriving and they initially wore emergency blue uniforms and carried dummy weapons. The battalion crossed to France between 28th August and 4th September 1915 where they joined X1 Corps and were sent up the line for the developing Battle of Loos. They disembarked at Boulogne almost 1000 strong, but 8 days later were reduced to 16 officers and 555 other ranks. The battalion lost a total of 1,019 men killed during the First World War. It marched from Montcarrel on the 21st September reaching Bethune on the 25th, before moving up to Lonely Tree Hill south of the La Basée Canal. They formed up for an attack in support of 11th Essex but were not engaged. At 03:30 on 26th September orders were received to assist 2nd Brigade on an attack on quarries west of Hulluch. At 05:30 the Battalion were in what had, the day before, been the German front trenches. The attack was launched at 06:45 under heavy fire, especially from snipers, after a full night of marching on empty stomachs and little or no progress was made before the Norfolks sought cover in the trenches. At 16:00 2nd Battalion of the Worcestershire Regiment passed through to attack. At 19:00 the Germans opened fire and the Norfolks were forced to fall back to trenches in the rear to take cover before being relieved by the Grenadier Guards whereupon they returned to Lonely Tree Hill. They had lost 5 officers killed and 9 wounded, with 39 other ranks killed, 122 wounded and 34 missing, a total of 209 casualties sustained in their first action
forum.planetalk.net/viewtopic.php?t=4844&sid=b3e7614b...
C E Ryder
Norlink has a picture of Charles Ernest Ryder, stated to be of the 1st/4th Northumberland Fusiliers.
norlink.norfolk.gov.uk/02_Catalogue/02_013_PictureTitleIn...
His cap badge in the picture however appears to be that of the Norfolk Regiment.
The accompanying notes are that the picture was taken in 1916 and that Private Ryder was born in Norwich on 13th September 1895. He enlisted on 22nd August 1915, and was killed on 26th October 1917
The relevant individual on the CWGC database appears to be this one
Name: RYDER, CHARLES
Rank: Private
Regiment: Northumberland Fusiliers
Unit Text: 1st/4th Bn.
Date of Death: 26/10/1917
Service No: 202125
Grave/Memorial Reference: Panel 19 to 23 and 162. Memorial: TYNE COT MEMORIAL
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=828511
Looking at the Census details, in the 1901 census there is no Charles recorded with a Norwich connection, but there is an Ernest - the brother of Archibald, born Norwich circa 1894. On the 1911 census there is a Charles, born circa 1894, but no Ernest. I only have access to a high-level search for the 1911 census, but that Charles is recorded as living in the same household as an “Archibold” Ryder and an Ellen Ryder.
26th Oct 1917
At 3am heavy rain began to fall again and at 4.05am the 4th Bn reported it was in position for the attack.
At zero hour, 5.40am, the barrage opened up and began to creep forward at a rate of one hundred yards every eight minutes. The fusiliers of the149th Bde rose to their feet to advance behind it, with the 4th & 5th Bn Loyal North Lancashires (57th Divn) on the right flank and the 35th Divn on the left. Had the 'going' been good, the troops who lay close up under the barrage (so close indeed that several casualties were suffered) waiting for the first "lift", would not have had a problem advancing at the rate of the creeping barrage.
'The rain had, however, done its deadly work, for all the gallant fellows could do was to drag themselves along through the thick clinging mud and water at a much slower pace than the barrage, which soon got ahead'. Then form "pill box" and shell hole murderous fire was poured upon them. Many fell dead; some of the wounded fell into the gaping holes of water and were drowned; fortunate were those who escaped, but on went the survivors' (Wyrell. p.244).
The allied barrage consisted entirely of shrapnel and was therefore quite useless against the first objective, which consisted of concrete huts. To make matters worse the rain continued to fall heavily and the condition of mud and water were perfectly appalling.
Bn HQ received a wire from the Bde Major at 8.50am stating that a wounded Forward Observation Officer had reported that the first objective had been taken and the men were advancing well to the second objective. This information proved incorrect because 2nd Lt Wood subsequently returned wounded and reported that casualties were heavy and the attack was held up in front of the Huts. The attack had actually ground to a halt about eighty yards west of the line of huts. The machine gun fire and sniping was so severe that any further advance was quite impossible and reporting the situation back to HQ extremely difficult. Two runners were sent to the front line to try and gather information but they both failed to return.
At 11am, 2nd Lt Burton was sent forward to reconnoitre and he confirmed that the attack was held up about one hundred yards short of the Huts. At 1pm Sgt Thompson returned from the front line and confirmed 2nd Lt Burtons’ report stating that casualties were very heavy. Similar news was brought down later by Capt J.V. Gregory. This information was relayed to Bde HQ by pigeon and signalled by Lucas Lamp. Several messages were sent during the afternoon. Two platoons from the Reserve Company, under the command of 2nd Lts Peddie and Scott, were sent forward at 6pm to consolidate the original line held before the attack.
The Bn was relieved about midnight by the 4th Bn East Yorks and proceeded, via the duckboard track known as Railway Street, to Rose Crossroads camp. The 6th Bn DLI organised straggler posts in likely places to round up men returning from the front line and to guide them to camp.
Roll call revealed the appalling casualties suffered by the 4th Bn. 2nd Lts D.A.Smith, and W.Ruddy had been killed in action with 2nd Lt R.A.A Simpson later dying of wounds. 2nd Lts G.R.Charlewood, A.W.P.Leary, H.B.Bell, J.R.Ruddock and R.Wood were wounded, and 2nd Lt R.G.Rayner and H Stobbs were missing. Thirty-six fusiliers had been killed, one hundred and fifty-six wounded and sixty four were still missing. A total of two hundred and fifty six, more than fifty percent of those that had gone into action.
Casualties
Records show that at least 100 fusiliers from the 4th Bn were actually killed in action or died of wounds between the 25th and 27th of Oct 1917.
© Neil Storey 2004.
www.4thbnnf.com/45_171024_171026_ 2nd_passchendaele.html
A C Savage
Name: SAVAGE, ALFRED CHARLES
Rank: Second Lieutenant
Regiment: Suffolk Regiment
Unit Text: 8th Bn.
Age: 24
Date of Death: 31/07/1917
Additional information: Son of William W. and Annie Savage, of 13, Chalk Hill Rd., Norwich.
Grave/Memorial Reference: Panel 21. Memorial: YPRES (MENIN GATE) MEMORIAL
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=921423
Alfred Charles can be seen here
norlink.norfolk.gov.uk/02_Catalogue/02_013_PictureTitleIn...
The picture was taken in 1917, so presumably shortly after he was commissioned in May, (it was taken at Coe’s Studios in Norwich) as he then travelled to France and was dead by July. Sobering thought.
Additional notes from Norlink
Second Lieutenant Savage was the son of William W. Savage of Norwich. On release from business he joined the 10th Norfolks in February 1916, held an Aldershot certificate as instructor and received his commission on May 1917. He was educated at Norwich Secondary School. Killed in action 31st July 1917 at Hooge.
The 8 year old Alfred C, born Norwich, is recorded on the 1901 census at 16 Ella Road, in the Parish of St Matthews. This is the household of his parents, William W, (aged 38 and a Shoe Manufacturer from Norwich) and Annie, (aged 33 and from Aldershot in Hampshire). Their other children are:-
Bertram J…………….aged 10.……………born Norwich
Donald J……………..aged 6.……………..born Norwich (see below)
Dorothy………………aged 1.……………..born Norwich
Wallace……………..aged 5.………………born Norwich
William H…………..aged 11.……………..born Norwich..(see below)
There is a likely Medal Index Card for a Alfred Savage which shows him as a Lance Sergeant (TR/A/263) in a Training Battalion before becoming a Lieutenant in the Suffolk Regiment .
The Battle of Passchendaele
18th Division
53 Bde
53 Bde’s task was to leapfrog 30th Div once Glencorse Wood had been taken.
8th Bn, Suffolk Regt arrived in Jackdaw Trench at 8.10am to find Glencorse Wood stille in enemy hands despite reports to the contrary. They dug in near Clapham Junction. Meanwhile 6th Bn, Berkshire Regt bogged down on the Menin Road also under fire from Glencorse Wood. With the help of 79 Coy, RE they destroyed some pill boxes between road and wood. Five tanks sent to assist bogged down in mud and were destroyed by shell-fire. By 10am they had dug in at the cross roads north west of Glencorse Wood.
forum.irishmilitaryonline.com/showthread.php?t=11535
The Suffolks lost 59 dead on this day according to the entries on the CWGC database.
D J Savage
Name: SAVAGE Initials: D J
Rank: Private
Regiment: Norfolk Regiment
Unit Text: 1st/4th Bn.
Date of Death: 19/04/1917
Service No: 200425
Grave/Memorial Reference: XXIII. F. 2. Cemetery: GAZA WAR CEMETERY
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=651255
There is a picture of Donald John Savage of the 1st/4th Norfolks who was posted missing after the Battle of Gaza on the 19th April 1917, on Norlink.
norlink.norfolk.gov.uk/02_Catalogue/02_013_PictureTitleIn...
Norlink notes Private Savage lived at 13, Chalk Hill Road, Norwich. He enlisted in September 1914, and was reported missing at Gaza on 19th April 1917
This would make him the brother of Alfred Charles listed above and William Harry below.
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
On 19th April the Norfolks took part in a disastrous attempt to take Gaza. In this action casualties for the battalion were 478 (55 killed, 323 wounded and 100 missing).
www.oldbuckenham-pri.norfolk.procms.co.uk/pages/viewpage....
W H Savage
Name: SAVAGE, WILLIAM HARRY
Rank: Serjeant
Regiment: South Staffordshire Regiment
Unit Text: 1st Bn.
Age: 28
Date of Death: 26/10/1917
Service No: 41669
Additional information: Son of William W. and Annie Savage, of 13, Chalk Hill Rd., Norwich.
Memorial Reference: Panel 90 to 92 and 162 to 162A. Memorial: TYNE COT MEMORIAL
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=828742
There is a picture of William Harry here
norlink.norfolk.gov.uk/02_Catalogue/02_013_PictureTitleIn...
The picture title includes the information that he was 10th “Royal” Norfolks before transferring to the 1st South Staffs.
Additional Norlink notes: Sergeant Savage lived at 13, Chalk Hill Road, Norwich. He enlisted in September 1914, and was killed in action or died of wounds on 26th October 1917
William was a brother of Alfred Charles and Donald John - see above.
Friday 26th October 1917 - Day 82
Rainfall 8 mm
Today marks the start of the Second Battle of Passchendaele. Zero Hour was 5.40 am.
91 Bde
91 Bde attacked with 1st Bn, South Staffordshire Regt, 21st Bn, Manchester Regt and 2nd Bn, Queen’s Regt with 20th Manchesters in Support.
The Queen’s attempted to take Lewis House but were driven bck to the Start Line by MG fire as were the Manchesters. The South Staffs started well as they were in dead ground and they took a mound southwest of Hamp Farm. From here D Coy attempted to take the farm itself and C Coy attacked Berry Cottage. Both attacks were unsuccessful with the two companies suffering heavily from MG fire.
forum.irishmilitaryonline.com/showthread.php?t=11535&...
A Semmence
Name: SEMMENCE, ALBERT DAVEY
Rank: Regimental Serjeant Major
Regiment: Norfolk Regiment
Unit Text: 2nd Bn.
Age: 40
Date of Death: 14/04/1915
Service No: 3326
Additional information: Son of Mr. and Mrs. George Semmence, of Wymondham, Norfolk; husband of Daisy Gillies Semmence, of 6, Belsize Rd., Norwich.
Grave/Memorial Reference: III. E. 7. Cemetery: BASRA WAR CEMETERY
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=631465
Albert can be seen here
norlink.norfolk.gov.uk/02_Catalogue/02_013_PictureTitleIn...
The additional Norlink notes are:
Regimental Sergeant Major Semmence was born in Wymondham on 29th November 1874, and educated at Wymondham Grammar School. He enlisted as a Private on 3rd October 1892, and was killed in action at Shaiba, Mesopotamia, on 14th April 1915
Albert is also remembered on the Wymondham Town War Memorial.
In due course the Turks initiated their offensive with simultaneous preliminary bombardments of Shaiba and Qurna on 11 April 1915. In the latter case the bombardment of the British 6th (Poona) Division progressed for three days while periodic attempts at piercing the town's defences were unsuccessfully attempted; eventually a counter-attack by the 2nd Dorsets and 24th Punjabis routed the Turks with heavy losses.
However the Turks' main effort was launched at Shaiba.
On 13 April, two days after the bombardment of the town started, Turkish troops attempted to outflank the British across the floods that separated Shaiba from Basra, while Turk cavalry prepared for a frontal assault.
However the timely intervention of two British Infantry battalions served to rapidly disperse the Turk cavalry, resulting in a full withdrawal by the latter into woods nearby. Possession of these were in turn secured by the British following an infantry battle throughout 14 April.
Casualties during the woodland battle were heavy: the Turks incurred around 2,400 casualties, and the British around half that number. Some 5,000 troops on each side were involved in the fighting in all.
www.firstworldwar.com/battles/shaiba.htm
On April 12th 1915 after some days of probing assaults a force of some 12,000 Turks and 10,000 Arabs attacked Shaiba where the Norfolks were located. They did not take the town but retired to dig in about 1500 yards from our lines to continue their assaults. Reinforcements were sent for from Basra but the floods hindered them. The following is from the Hunts Post dated 28th May 1915 and it tells a little of the action at Shaiba during those few days in April.
"Sgt and Mrs Dighton of Spaldwick have received several interesting letters from their eldest son Pte Whit Dighton of the 2nd Norfolks who has been on active service in the Persian Gulf since last November and is possibly the only representative from the Huntingdon district out there, .......... Pte Dighton says the country in which he is now located is a desert, miles away from any town, with blinding sandstorms which are far worse than rain. After four days terrific fighting against a superior body of Turks, "suddenly we received the order to charge. We fixed bayonets and put all the strength into it we could. The Turks were completely taken by surprise, and we were upon them in a flash. Their confusion was indescribable. They ran for their lives, thousands of them, and we quickly occupied their trenches, and simply potted them over like ninepins. As they ran some threw away their arms and surrendered. Our artillery completed their rout. Their losses totalled some thousands ....... I cannot speak too highly of our officers; they are bricks - every one of them. One gave me his last drop of water from his bottle, or I don't think I should have been left to tell the tale."
On the 13th April the Norfolks had broken out to rush the Turkish front line trenches and took them at bayonet point. They did not immediately pursue the enemy to the second line but rested up. They had been under harassment for some days and directly under arms for 36 hours continuously. On the 14th April an attack on the Turkish second line entrenchments began at noon with White 18th Brigade on the right of the line and the 16th Brigade on the left. This developed into a stationary firefight, in the heat of the midday sun. At 4 pm a last British effort was made and the Turkish rear lines fell.
www.roll-of-honour.com/Huntingdonshire/SpaldwickDighton.html
E M Sendall
Name: SENDALL, EDMUND MATHIAS
Rank: Private
Regiment: Norfolk Regiment
Unit Text: 1st/4th Bn.
Age: 28
Date of Death: 19/08/1915
Service No: 4368
Additional information: Husband of the late Ellen E. Sendall.
Memorial Reference: Panel 42 to 44. Memorial: HELLES MEMORIAL
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=682013
No match on Norlink
The 11 year Edmund, born Norwich, is recorded on the 1901 census at 40 Carrow Road, in the Parish of St Matthews. This is the household of his parents, Alfred, (aged 53 and a Boot Maker from Norwich) and Mary A. (aged 48 and from Norwich). Their other children are:-
Alfred………..aged 18.………born Norwich….General Labourer
Charles……….aged 16.………born Norwich…..Houseboy Domestic
Ethel………….aged 7.………..born Norwich
Mary A……….aged 9.………..born Norwich
Sarah A……….aged 17.………born Norwich…..Bootmaker
An Edmund M Sendall married an Eleanor R Palmer in the April to June 1915 quarter in the Wayland District of Norfolk.
1/4th Battalion
August 1914 : in Norwich. Part of Norfolk and Suffolk Brigade, East Anglian Division.
May 1915 : the formation was retitled as 163rd Brigade, 54th (East Anglian) Division.
29 July 1915 : embarked at Liverpool and moved to Gallipoli via Mudros. Landed at Suvla Bay on 10 August 1915.
www.1914-1918.net/norfolks.htm
Between the 10th and the 19th, the 1st/4ths were continuously losing men, including a number on the 12th when the 1st/5th advanced into the scrub and pretty much “disappeared”, leaving the 1st/4ths covering the line and providing covering fire for the few stragglers that returned. Many of the wounded and sick were treated offshore on Hospital Ships. Unable to leave position and overwhelmed by the numbers, many of the dead were simply “buried at sea” and subsequently commemorated on the Helles Memorial.
Captain Montgomerie's diary of events in the 1/4th Battalion whilst in the neighbourhood of Jephson's Post on this day is as follows
19th. - All. quiet during day. Worked hard all night fetching food, water, etc., and improving the trenches.
user.online.be/~snelders/sand.htm
A Senior
Military Genealogy has an Alfred born Thorpe Hamlet, but there is no obvious match from the 12 possibles on the CWGC database and there is no match on Norlink. CWGC does have an Lance Corporal A Senior from the 7th Battalion, Norfolk Regiment, but there is no age of any other additional information that might connect him.
www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=250638
However the Great War Roll of Honour does confirm he was an Alfred.
The 1901 census has a 9 year old Alfred R, born Norwich, who is recorded at 87 Quebec Road East, in the Parish of St Matthews. This is the household of his parents, Alfred N. (aged 48 and a Wheelwright from Gloucester) and Kate G, (aged 47 and from Norwich). Their other children are:-
Arthur E…………..aged 18.………………..born Norwich………….Gardener (Domestic) - see below
Ernest M………….aged 6.…………………born Norwich - see below
Eva A……………..aged 23.………………..born Norwich…………Tailoress
Frank W…………..aged 14.……………….born Norwich………Blacksmith (Beer Making)
Horace W…………aged 16.……………….born Norwich………Wheelwright
Nellie M…………..aged 21.……………….born Norwich…….Drapers Shop Assistant
Richard P………….aged 20.……………….born Norwich……Engine Fitter
Stanley G………….aged 11.……………….born Norwich
Like his brother Arthur, Alfred was awarded the Military Medal.
A E Senior
Military Genealogy has an Arthur Ernest born and resident Norwich. The most likely possible is
Name: SENIOR, ARTHUR ERNEST
Rank: Serjeant
Regiment: Rifle Brigade
Unit Text: 1st Bn.
Date of Death: 23/10/1916
Service No: 750
Awards: M M
Memorial Reference: Pier and Face 16 B and 16 C. Memorial: THIEPVAL MEMORIAL
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=812024
No match on Norlink
The only Arthur listed on the 1901 census with a Norwich connection is the brother of Alfred above and Ernest below. (See Alfred for family details).
26th October 1916
Lesboeufs
4th Div attacked here with two brigades, 12 Bde on the left and 11 Bde on the right.
In 11 Bde, 1st Hampshires were halted by fire from Boritska Trench, as were the French on their right flank. 1st Rifle Brigade came up in support but were only able to establish posts short of the objective.
forum.irishmilitaryonline.com/showthread.php?t=9058&p...
E M Senior
Name: SENIOR, ERNEST MONTAGUE
Rank: Lance Corporal
Regiment: The Queen's (Royal West Surrey Regiment)
Unit Text: 6th Bn.
Age: 22
Date of Death: 10/04/1917
Service No: 40097 Additional information: Son of Alfred Henry and Kate Gertrude Senior; husband of Hannah Maria Senior, of 63, Cohens Rd., Thorpe, Norwich.
Grave/Memorial Reference: I. P. 8. Cemetery: DUISANS BRITISH CEMETERY, ETRUN
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=41199
I suspect that should be Cozens Road.
No match on Norlink.
See brother Alfred above for family details.
The 12th Division, of which the 6th The Queens were part, (as was the 7th Norfolks) were heavily engaged in the opening two days of the Battle of Arras, and were part of the initial Allied success.
J Sexton
Name: SEXTON, JAMES HORACE
Rank: Private
Regiment: The Queen's (Royal West Surrey Regiment)
Unit Text: 6th Bn.
Age: 19
Date of Death: 04/07/1918
Service No: 63691
Additional information: Son of Herbert and Jane Sexton, of 7, St. Matthew's Rd., Thorpe Hamlet, Norwich.
Grave/Memorial Reference: I. N. 22. Cemetery: GEZAINCOURT COMMUNAL CEMETERY EXTENSION
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=35619
No match on Norlink
The 2 year old James, born Norwich, was recorded on the 1901 census at 7 St Matthews Road, in the Parish of St Matthews. This was the household of his parents, Herbert J. (aged 34 and a Wheelwright from Norwich) and Jane, (aged 31 and from Thornham, Norfolk). Their other children are:-
Gladys J………….aged 3.…………..born Norwich
Herbert…………..aged 11.………….born Norwich
Montague………..aged 8.…………..born Norwich
The Battalion had been engaged in a successful attack on the 30th June, but they and fellow Brigade unit’s the Bedfords and the Royal West Kents, were subject to repeated counter-attacks on the 1st. Contact was lost with the Bedfords and the West Surreys were forced back to what had been the old German Front line trench. They were relieved about 5 am on the 2nd and moved back to the Reserve line. The 3rd was reported as very quiet, and on the 4th they were pulled out of the line altogether.
J R Shingles
Name: SHINGLES, JOHN
Rank: Private
Regiment: Essex Regiment
Unit Text: 1st Bn.
Secondary Regiment: Norfolk Regiment
Secondary Unit Text: formerly (16864),
Age: 28
Date of Death: 12/10/1916
Service No: 20977
Additional information: Son of George and Sarah Anne Shingles, of 167 Albert Rd., Quebec Rd., Norwich.
Memorial Reference: Pier and Face 10 D. Memorial: THIEPVAL MEMORIAL
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=1552573
No match on Norlink
The Great War Roll of Honour has John down as serving in the Essex Regiment at his time of death., Private 20977. Strangely his Medal Index Card, (which only lists him as J.Shingles) appears to have no reference to him being in the Norfolks.
The 11 year old John, born Norwich, is recorded on the 1901 census at 12 Albert Place, Gas Hill in the Parish of St Matthews. This is the household of his parents, George, (aged 49 and a Carter from Burlingham, Norfolk) and Sarah A, (aged 45 and from Burlingham) Their other children are:-
Alice…………..aged 16.………..born Thorpe St.Andrews…………General Domestic Servant
George…………aged 19.……….born Great Plumstead
Gerty………….aged 10.…………born Norwich
Kate …………..aged 14.………..born Thorpe St Andrews………….General Domestic Servant
Mabel…………aged 3.………….born Norwich
May……………aged 7.…………born Norwich
Samuel………..aged 22.…………born Great Plumstead……………Road Labourer
Stephen……….aged 6.…………..born Norwich
After having spent 10 weeks in the Ypres Salient the 88th Brigade, the brigade in which the Royal Newfoundland Regiment was serving, was temporarily attached to the British 12th Division, which was holding Gueudecourt. By nightfall on October 10, the regiment was manning a 450-metre section of the trench on the northern outskirts of the village.
The attack began at 2:05 pm on 12 October 1916. The regiment advanced in line with the 1st Essex Battalion on their left. The men kept so close to the supporting artillery barrage that several became casualties from the shrapnel of their own supporting guns. Likewise, the Germans were compelled by the shelling to remain under cover and as a result were quickly engaged in hand-to-hand fighting. By 2:30 p.m. both assaulting battalions of the 88th Brigade had secured their initial objective, Hilt Trench in the German front line.
As the Newfoundlanders advanced to their final objective, Grease Trench some 750 metres from their starting line, heavy machine-gun fire coming from the front and the right flank forced the regiment back to Hilt Trench. On their left flank, a German counter-attack drove the 1st Essex Battalion back to the outskirts of Gueudecourt, leaving the Newfoundlanders with an open flank. Newfoundland bombing parties cleared and secured the vacated portion of Hilt Trench and as a result doubled the length of the regiment's front line. All ranks began digging in the hard chalk to construct a new firing step and parapet and reverse the former German position.
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gueudecourt_(Newfoundland)_Memorial
A R Shreeve
Name: SHREEVE, ALAN ROBERT
Rank: Lance Serjeant
Regiment: Gloucestershire Regiment
Unit Text: 2nd/6th Bn.
Age: 23
Date of Death: 19/07/1916
Service No: 367208
Additional information: Son of Charles Robert and Alice Shreeve, of 36, Plumstead Rd., Norwich.
Memorial Reference: Panel 60 to 64. Memorial: LOOS MEMORIAL
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=1768924
Alan can be seen here
norlink.norfolk.gov.uk/02_Catalogue/02_013_PictureTitleIn...
Norlink notes include that he was formerly of the 1st/6th Norfolks.
19 July 1916
Whilst the Battle of the Somme was raging, the British Commander in Chief General Sir Douglas Haig decided to open a more modest battle in the area of Armentières near the Belgian border.
Part of his reasoning was that the German Army was moving men south away from this area in an effort to shore up their defences on the Somme. An attack here towards Lille would put them in a dilemma as to whether or not they could thin out this sector any further.
Fromelles is a small village on the Aubers Ridge to the south of Armentières. Most of the area that was held by the Allies is very flat with a number of water features and streams.
Behind Fromelles and Aubers lies the ridge which easily overlooks the battlefield.
The Battle
The objectives of the Australian 5th Division and the British 61st Division on their right were to capture the village and the ridge.
The attack was centred around a point known as the Sugarloaf and at 1100 hours on 19 July 1916 the British artillery put down a bombardment on the German front line as the infantry made their way up to their jumping off points.
From their vantage point and on a bright summers day the Germans could see the attack preparing and launched a counter bombardment onto the communication trenches as the men were making their way to the front.
The German bombardment wreaked havoc on the Australian's lines. As men were trying to get forward, wounded were trying to push their way back to the Aid Posts adding to the chaos.
The two bombardments continued until at 1800 hours the infantry finally launched their assault.
On the left of the Australian line, the 8th and 14th Brigades swiftly took the German front line and started to consolidate their positions. The 15th Brigade next to the British in the centre however was struggling across wide open ground in the teeth of fierce machine gun fire.
On the right of Sugar Loaf the 61st Division had also been halted by uncut wire. In a scene familiar to those on the Somme not three weeks earlier, the Allied bombardment had failed in its objective of cutting the wire and destroying the German positions.
An attempt to organise a truce with the Germans to bring in the wounded was refused by the Allied Commanders, despite having been agreed to by the German Commander.
The battle had been a complete disaster.
www.webmatters.net/france/ww1_fromelles.htm
Alan is also remembered on the Roll of Honour at The United Reform Church at Princes Street in the City
This tintype was placed in a case usually used for ambrotypes and daguerreotypes; inside the case, embossed on paper was the photographer S.C. Dustin, Keene, New Hampshire.
The photographer Samuel C. Dustin was born 21 January 1818 in Windam, New Hampshire, the son of Peter Dustin (4 June 1781 - 27 January 1826) and Abigail Brown (17 October 1783 - 17 January 1854), both of New Hampshire. Samuel was first married to Jemima B. Puffer on 8 September 1841; she passed away on 26 October 1841. He married Catherine H. Perry (1815 - 25 January 1892) on 10 April 1844. The first record I could find of an occupation was the 1850 census in which Samuel was living in Keene and working as a shoemaker. One local history suggests he started a photography business in Keene in 1856, but the 1860 census is the first listing I could find of him as a photographic artist; Catherine was working as a “tailoress”. From 1862-1866, he paid annually $25.00 for a Class B license for photographers making more than $1,000 a year. Keene directories available at ancestry.com indicate that his gallery was at Central Square from 1871 through 1878. In 1879, he is listed as a photographer, but with no business address. In the 1880 census he lists himself as a day laborer, and the Keene 1881 directory listed him as working in Fester’s Tannery. In 1887 he was listed as a gardener. Thereafter, up until 1899 he was listed as a retired photographer. Samuel passed away on 24 November 1899.
Kyara is wearing a beautiful spring outfit. The cardigan and her top are made by the talented tailoress of Cute Dolls Shop. The fluffy ruffled skirt is made by Yenna(ibi). I wish I had a similar outfit in my size :'(
Close-up street portrait (outdoor headshot, three-quarter view) of a Christian Thai dressmaker, posing for the camera in front of the display area of her business;
Bangkok, Thailand.
More context:
Adding Context to Street Portraits (photo blog),
Doing a Background Check (photo blog).
We have a new tailoring service in the village square and I went in to check out what they do. As well as designing and making any outfits they do alterations, knitting, crocheting, laundry and dry cleaning. Lovely to see an old style family business starting up.
Loved these shelves the moment I saw them.
Prisoner Martha Brown had her sentence remitted on 2 May 1868.
The former tailoress was serving a six month sentence with hard labour in Christchurch Gaol for uttering a forged check when she petitioned for her sentence to be reduced. She stated that she had “conducted herself in a manner conformable to the Prison regulations, has never been reported for any misconduct and trusts she has merited the approbation and favourable recommendation of the goal authorities.” It was agreed that her conduct in gaol had been good, and her petition was granted.
Shown here is the gaol report of Martha Ann Brown.
ACGS 16211 J1/75/b 1868/1512
collections.archives.govt.nz/web/arena/search#/?q=R24269640
For updates on our On This Day series and news from Archives New Zealand, follow us on Twitter www.twitter.com/ArchivesNZ
Material supplied by Archives New Zealand.
To the dear memory of
ROBERT CRANE CLAXTON
Beloved husband of
ELIZABETH CLAXTON
Died March 13th 1928,
Aged 80 years.
I head the voice of Jesus say,
Come unto me and rest.
Also in memory of
their dear son
THOMAS KILWICH CLAXTON
Sapper 250th Mining Company
R.E.B.E.F.
Died in Etaples Hospital from
wounds received on Menin Road
September 22nd and buried in
Cemetery there October 4th 1917.
Aged 34 years.
CLAXTON, THOMAS KILWICK
Rank:…………………......Sapper
Service No:…………….156345
Date of Death:……….04/10/1917
Regiment:………………Royal Engineers
…………………………......250th Tunnelling Coy.
Grave Reference:…XXVII. E. 9.
Cemetery:……………..ETAPLES MILITARY CEMETERY
CWGC: www.cwgc.org/find-war-dead/casualty/499954/CLAXTON,%20THO...
SDGW records that Sapper Thomas Kilwick Claxton Died of Wounds on the 4th October 1917 whilst serving with the 250th Tunnelling Company, Royal Engineers. He was born and enlisted Lowestoft. No place of residence is shown.
The Medal Index Card for Sapper 156345 Thomas K Claxton, Royal Engineers, is held at the National Archive under reference WO 372/4/153785
He had previously been Private 3/9504 in the Suffolk Regiment.
discovery.nationalarchives.gov.uk/details/r/D1833410
Some of his Army Service Records survived the burning down in the Blitz of the Warehouse where they were all stored, although they are burnt and torn and water damaged.
He enlisted on the 29th August 1914, embarked for France on the 7th October 1914, joining up with the 2nd Suffolks on the 5th November 1914. His Suffolk Serial number looks like 3/9564, although its heavily faded. At his medical at Bury St Edmunds on the 30th August 1914 he was recorded as 31 years and 2 months old, 5 feet 11.5 inches tall, weighed 163lbs, and had a fair complexion with Green eyes and light brown hair. There were no distinguishing marks.
His marriage to Alice Maud Davis, spinster, has been recorded, but the section relating to where and when has been ripped. The couple have two children recorded.
Thomas Llewellyn born 24th May 1909 at Lowestoft. Baptised Lowestoft 17th June-99(?)
(Thomas’ birth was originally recorded as 1899 but that was amended)
Robert Henry born 5th May 1912 at Lowestoft. Baptised Lowestoft 15th June 1912.
He was wounded in action on the 18th September 1915, receiving a Gun Shot Wound to his Left Hand and ??? – (the next entries of his service record have been subject to water damage, probably from the fire-fighting). He was admitted first to 52 Field Ambulance, then 7(?) Field Ambulance and the 50th Casualty Clearing Station. He was in the UK from the 21st October 1915 to the 25th October 1915 before returning to France. The next entries in the location column are difficult to make out, best guess would be that he rejoined the Battalion but was then attached to another unit, possibly a Tunnelling Company. In a note dated 13th February 1916 he rejoined the 2nd Suffolks.
In a note dated 30th April he was attached to the 250th Tunnelling Company R.E. effective 23rd April 1916. He was subsequently transferred to the Royal Engineers, although this was backdated to the 9th April 1916. His formal transfer request gives his civilian occupation as “Excavator”.
He was “re-mustered”as a Tunneller on the 23rd June 1916 downgraded to Tunnellers Mate on the 22nd September 1916, (“for laziness”), and then Tunneller again on the 7th December 1916. He received his mortal wounds, recorded as Gun Shot Wounds to the Back and a Compound fracture of the left femur on the 22nd September 1917. He died at No.7 Canadian General Hospital on the 4th October 1917.
His personal effects were to be sent to Mrs Alice M. Claxton, of Exhibition Stores, 87 High Street, Lowestoft according to a memo dated 26th March 1918.
A pension was awarded to Harrys’ widow and two children.
At the end of the War the Government decided to pay a War Gratuity to all men who had seen active service. In the case of Thomas this involved sending Army Form W.5080 to the last known next of kin, asking for details of surviving relatives following the current priority list for inheritance.
Alice Maud, his widow, completed the form in March 1920. The form has suffered considerably from water damage and fading. She was still living at 87 High Street, Lowestoft. The couple had three children who were still alive – Robert Henry, (born May 1912), Thomas Llewellyn, (born May 1909) and Elsie May, (born September 1889). Obviously that last date at first glance does not make sense.
Thomas’ father was Robert Crane Claxton. He and his wife Elizabeth live at 37 Crown Street, Lowestoft.
The section for Harrys’ brothers is just about readable. They were Albert William, (?), aged 44, of 139 Gipsy Road, Norwich and William (?) Henry (?), aged 28, of 19 Yale Road, New Barsford(?). I think there are 5 sisters but other than the age of the oldest being 42, the rest is indecipherable.
The 1918 Probate Calendar records that Thomas Kilwick Claxton, of 87 High Street, Lowestoft, Sapper 156345 of the 250th Tunnelling Company, Royal Engineers, died at Etaples in France on the 4th October 1917. Administration of his estate was awarded at the Ipswich Court on the 27th March 1918 to a widow, Alice Maud Claxton. His effects were valued at £65 19d 1d.
probatesearch.service.gov.uk/Calendar?surname=Claxton&...
From the Norwich Mercury Births, Deaths and Marriages column, Saturday, October 20, 1917.
DIED OF WOUNDS
CLAXTON – In loving memory of Sapper T.K.Claxton, R.E. Thomas Claxton, the dearly beloved husband of Maud Claxton, Exhibition Stores, Lowestoft, who died of wounds, October 4th 1917.
“ He (????) beside his comrades,
In hallowed graves unknown,
But his name is written in letters of love,
In the hearts he left at home.”
From his sorrowing Wife and Children, Father and Mother, Sisters and Brothers.
1883 – Birth
The birth of a Thomas Kilwick Claxton was recorded in the July to September quarter, (Q3), of 1883 in the Mutford District of Suffolk.
1891 Censuses of England & Wales and Scotland
I could not initially find Thomas on this census, but having found in 1901 and 1911 it proved possible to track him – the Genealogy site I use has mistranscribed him and his family as having the surname “Clayton”.
Parents are Robert, (aged 43, a Coal Dealer, born Lowestoft) and Elizabeth, (aged 39, born Lowestoft). Children living with them at this time are:-
Robert…..aged 15...born Lowestoft…Post Errand Boy
Ellen…….aged 13..born Lowestoft
Elizabeth..aged 11..born Lowestoft
Gertrude…aged 10..born Lowestoft
Thomas….aged 7…born Lowestoft
May……..aged 5....born Lowestoft
Maud……aged 2…born Lowestoft
The most likely match for his future wife is a 10 year old Alice M Davis, born Lowestoft, who was recorded living at 37 Seago Street, Lowestoft. This was the household of her parents Henry, (45, a Mariner, born Kessingland, Suffolk) and Emma, (45, born Halesworth, Suffolk). As well as Alice the couple have 4 other children living with them
Alice is probably also on the 1881 census. Aged 8 months she was living, along with her twin sister Ethel as 45 Raglan Street West, Lowestoft. The adult in the household is her married mother Emma, (aged 35, born Halesworth). Emma give her relationship to the head of the household as Wife and her occupation looks like Sailors Wife, although this has been scored through probably by the census enumerator – this has been done for two other entries by women on the same page where they have made similar statements in the occupation column.
1901 Censuses of England & Wales and Scotland
The 17 year old Thomas Claxton, born Lowestoft and a Coal Dealer, was recorded living at 121 Wollaston Road, Lowestoft. This was the household of his parents, Robert, (aged 53, Coal Dealer, born Lowestoft) and Elizabeth, (aged 49, born Lowestoft). As well as Thomas their other children living with them are:-
Robert……aged 25……born Lowestoft….Groom
Gertrude…aged 20…….born Lowestoft
Thomas…..aged 17……born Lowestoft
May………aged 15……born Lowestoft
Maud……..aged 12……born Lowestoft
William…..aged 8……..born Lowestoft
The 20 year old Alice Maud Davis, single and a Dressmaker working at home, was still recorded living with her parents Henry, (55, Mariner employed by J J Colman) and Emma, (55), at 37 Seago Street, Lowestoft. Henry and Emma have four other unmarried children living with them and a grand-daughter, “Elsea” Davis, aged 19 months and born Lowestoft.
1908 – Marriage
The marriage of a Thomas Kilwick Claxton to an Alice Maud Davis was recorded in the Mutford District of Suffolk in the July to September quarter, (Q3), of 1908.
24th May 1909 – birth of son Thomas Llewellyn
(Source – Army Service records)
The birth of a Thomas Llewellyn Claxton was recorded in the Mutford District in the April to June quarter, (Q2), of 1909.
1911 Census of England and Wales
The 27 year old Thomas Kilwick Claxton, a married Seaman in the Coal Trade(?), was recorded as the head of the household at 22 Avondale Road, Lowestoft. He lives there with his wife Alice Maud, (aged 30, born Lowestoft). The couple state they have been married 2 years and have had just the one child, but two are recorded living with them. The eldest is Elsie Mary Claxton, aged 11 and born Lowestoft. The youngest is Thomas Llewellyn Claxton, aged 1 and born Lowestoft.
His widowed mother Elizabeth, (59), was recorded as the head of the household at 121 Wollaston Road, Lowestoft. She states she was married 36 years and has had 8 children, all then still alive. Still single and living with her are Gertrude, (30, Fishing Net Mender), Maud, (22, Tailoress), and William, (18, Printer).
Post August 1911 it had become compulsory when registering the birth of a child with the Civil Authorities in England and Wales to also record the mothers maiden name. A check of the General Registrars Office Index of Births for England and Wales produces just the one likely additional child – a Robert H Claxton, mothers maiden name Davis, whose birth was registered in the Mutford District in the April to June quarter, (Q2), of 1912. This would tie in with the Robert Henry who was born 5th May 1912 according to his fathers service records.
On the day
We know from his Service record that he received his mortal wounds, recorded as Gun Shot Wounds to the Back and a Compound fracture of the left femur on the 22nd September 1917.
250th Tunnelling Company, Royal Engineers was formed in Rouen in October 1915. They dug the deep-level mines at Petit Bois, Peckham and Spanbroekmolen under the Messines Ridge and sucessfully detonated their mines at 3.10am on the 7th of June 1917.
www.plugstreet-archaeology.com/250TunnellingCoyRE.php
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/250th_Tunnelling_Company
www.longlongtrail.co.uk/army/regiments-and-corps/the-corp...
After the blowing of the tunnels under the Messines Ridge, the offensive and defensive tunnelling war practically came to an end. While there was still work to do in terms of building deep-dug-outs, the book Armageddon’s Walls: British Pill Boxes 1914-1918 makes reference to the 250th Tunnelling Company being utilised in the building of these from pre-fabricated sections in late 1917 \ early 1918.
In
Loving memory of
HARRY
The beloved husband of
MATILDA SMITH
Who died 24th August 1918
Aged 70 years.
Also CHARLES ALBERT
Eldest son of the above
Who died in Mesopotamia
12th June 1916
Aged 44 years.
At Rest.
Also of MATILDA SMITH
Who died ??? May 1929
Private:…………… CHARLES ALBERT SMITH
Service Number:…. T4/092695
Regiment & Unit:….Army Service Corps H.T.
Secondary Unit:……attd. 40th Field Amb
Date of Death:……..12 June 1916
Age:………………. 44 years old
Buried or commemorated at:-
AMARA WAR CEMETERY
XV. F. 4.
Iraq
Additional Info Son of Matilda Smith, of 49, Vauxhall St., Norwich, and the late Harry Smith.
Source: www.cwgc.org/find-records/find-war-dead/casualty-details/...
Soldiers Died in the Great War, an HMSO publication from the 1920’s, records that Driver T4/092695 Charles Albert Smith “Died” on the 12th June 1916 while serving in Mesopotamia with the Royal Army Service Corps.
He was born Bungay, Suffolk, resident Nottingham and enlisted Norwich.
(“Died” in SDGW terms means anything other than Killed in Action or Died of Wounds received in action).
The Medal Index Card for Driver T4/092695 Charles A. Smith, Army Service Corps, (the Royal wasn’t added till the end of the war), is held at the National Archive under reference WO 372/18/126368
The card is noted that he “Died” and that an application for his medals was received on the 26th January 1923 from a Mrs S. Smith, his mother, of Rupert Street, Norwich.
Source: discovery.nationalarchives.gov.uk/details/r/D5211897
He qualified for the British War Medal and the Victory Medal. This combination of medals would indicate he did not serve in a Theatre of War until on or after the 1st January 1916.
His Service Records do not appear to have survived the incendiary attack during the Blitz on the Warehouse where all the Other Ranks Army Service Records were stored.
No match on Picture Norfolk, the County Image Archive.
The Army Register of Soldiers Effects, a financial ledger rather than an inventory of belongings, shows that Private T4/092695 Charles Albert Smith, A.S.C. died at Basra in the Persian Gulf on the 12th June 1916.
The balance of his pay was initially held by the Regimental Paymaster, probably as next of kin was not known. However in November 1916 a Mrs Ann Street was accepted as his sole legatee and the monies were paid out to her, with an additional sum following in March 1917.
Mrs Street would also receive his War & Service Gratuity when this was paid out in September 1919.
The Government Probate Service holds a Soldiers Will for T4/092695 Charles Albert Smith who died on the 12th June 1916.
probatesearch.service.gov.uk/Wills?Surname=Smith&Surn...
He appears on the Beeston, (Nottinghamshire), Roll of Honour.
www.beeston-notts.co.uk/ww1_smith_ca.shtml
He is apparently remembered on the Beeston, St John the Baptist Church War Memorial as C A Smith, Driver HT attd . 40th Field Ambulance Army Service Corps.
secure.nottinghamshire.gov.uk/RollOfHonour/People/Details...
1871 – Birth…………..
The birth of a Charles Albert Smith, mothers’ maiden name Linstead was registered with the Civil Authorities in the Wangford District of Suffolk in the October to December quarter, (Q4), of 1871. Wangford Civil Registration District included the civil parish of Bungay.
The baptism of a Charles Albert Smith, son of Henry and Matilda Smith, took place in Suffolk on the 7th December 1871. Unfortunately the source has nothing nore specific than that, and scans of the original document can only be seen at one of the Church of Latterday Saints Family History Centres. www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:J9SW-NPX
The most likely marriage of his parents was the union of a Henry Smith and Matilda Linstead which was recorded in the Wangford District in the July to September quarter, (Q3), of 1871.
1881 Census of England and Wales
The 9 year old Charles A. Smith, born Bungay, Suffolk, was recorded living at 2 Julian Street, Norwich. This was the household of his parents, Henry, (aged 33, a Coach Smith, born Bungay, Suffolk) and Matilda, (aged 32, a Boot Machinist, born Bungay). As well as Charles their other children living with them are:-
Elsie A…….aged 6…..born Norwich
Edmond R….aged 4….born Norwich
Beatrice M…aged 2….born Norwich.
The birth of Elsie Adeline Smith was registered with the civil authorities in the Norwich District in Q3 1874, Edmund Rowland Smith in Q4 1876 and Beatrice Maud Smith in Q1 1879. Mothers’ maiden name for all three was Linstead.
1891 Census of England and Wales
The 19 year old Charles Smith, an unmarried Groom born Bungay, Suffolk, was recorded as a live in servant at Stoke Holy Cross Hall, Stoke Holy Cross, Norfolk.
The Hall was apparently demolished c1938/39. This site has a couple of pictures of it in it’s heyday. www.lostheritage.org.uk/houses/lh_norfolk_stokeholycrossh...
And there are more here:-
www.poringlandarchive.co.uk/stoke-holy-cross/stoke-hall-a...
His parents were recorded living at 49 Vauxhall Street, Norwich. Father Henry, (43), still works as a Coach Smith and lives there with wife Matilda, (42) and children Elsie A., (16, Boot Fitter), Edmund, (14, Book Binders Apprentice), Beatrice, (12) and Catherine, (8) – all the children are shown as born Norwich.
The birth of a Catherine Emma Smith, mothers’ maiden name Linstead, was registered with the civil authorities in the Norwich District in Q1 1883.
1901 Census of England and Wales
There is no match for a Bungay born man, but there is a 29 year old boarder Charles Smith, born Norwich, Norfolk, who was recorded lodging at 20 Moore Gate, Beeston, Nottinghamshire. Charles was working as a Groom – not domestic. The address was the household of a 39 year old Widow, Ann Street, a Hosiery Maker, born Beeston. Ann has two of her children living with her – Annie, (16) and Jennie, (10), plus an unmarried sister.
His parents were still living at 49 Vauxhall Street, Norwich. The father was recorded as the 53 year old “Harry” Smith, a Carriage Smith, born Bungay Suffolk, Matilda, (53), is also shown as born Bungay. Living with them still is their 18 year old unmarried daughter Catherine, a Tailoress, born Norwich. Completing the household is a boarder.
1911 Census of England and Wales
There is again no clear match for a Bungay born man, but the Norwich man from the 1901 Census, although now recorded as Charles “Albt” Smith and only aged 36, still unmarried, was shown as the head of the household at 20, Ivy Cottage, Moore Gate, Beeston. The census enumerators coding additions makes it difficult to make out but possibly he was a Porter in the Stores of a Telephone Works. Living with him is the 47 year old widow, Ann Street, a Hosiery Hand and her 20 year old daughter, Jennie Street, also a Hosiery Hand.
Parents “Harry” Smith, (63, a Motor Smith) and Matilda Smith, (63), were still living at 49 Vauxhall Street, Norwich. The couple state they have been married 41 years and have had 5 children, of which 4 were then still alive. They have two young professional footballers boarding with them – Eddy Whiteside, (23, born Blackpool) and William Bibby, (23, born Liverpool).
On the 14th January 1911 in just about the biggest game in their brief history since being formed in 1902, lowly Norwich City Football Club took on Sunderland, then fourth in the first division, at home in the F.A. Cup. Norwich won 3-1, with Eddie Whiteside scoring the second. captainbeecher.webs.com/1911.htm
www.thegiantkillers.co.uk/1911norwichcity.htm
Army Career………………………………….
We know from the Medal Index Card that Charles did not enter a Theatre of War until on or after the 1st January 1916.
The prefix T4 tells us he joined as part of Kitcheners “Fourth Army” – war time only recruits that joined units in the late sping \ early summer of 1915.
The 40th Field Ambulance and it’s associated Army Service Corps detachment had gone overseas as part of 13th (Western) Division, landing at Gallipoli between the 6-16th July 1915.
The Division was one of the last units evacuated from the Peninsula, leaving on the 8-9th January 1916. There is a very small chance that Charles may have joined up with them during those opening days of January 1916, as part of a replacement draft, but more likely it was over the following weeks as the Division rebuilt in Egypt.
12 February 1916 : began to move to Mesopotamia, to strengthen the force being assembled for the relief of the besieged garrison at Kut al Amara. By 27 March, the Division had assembled near Sheikh Sa’ad and came under orders of the Tigris Corps. It then took part in the attempts to relieve Kut. After these efforts failed and Kut fell, the British force in the theatre was built up and reorganised.
www.longlongtrail.co.uk/army/order-of-battle-of-divisions...
As his service records haven’t survived, it can sometimes be possible by looking at nearby service numbers and checking to see if they have related papers that these can then be examined to see whether any recurring patterns occur that might apply to Charles.
From a search for T4/092690 to T4/092700:-
T4/092697 Driver James Henry Hipperson has surviving discharge records showing his last unit as Army Service Corps, attached 40th Field Ambulance. He was discharged on the 26th April 1919 and his discharge address was 30 Westwick Street, Norwich.
James, a Fitter in civilian life, joined at Norwich and was posted for duty at Woolwich on the 27th April 1915 having been medically graded A1. At the time of his discharge he was aged 47.
He had gone out from the UK to join the Mediterranean Expeditionary Force on the 21st December 1915. He is shown serving with the India Expeditionary Force “D” from the 14th February 1916 – which is probably the date the unit sailed from Egypt. All other changes occurred after the death of Charles and so are not relevant.
and T4/092694 Driver Arthur J Wilson appears in the Admission book for 2nd General Hospital on the 10th January 1918. The aged 23, he had been in the Army 2 years and 9 months, of which 23 months were served overseas. So roughly enlisted April 1915 and overseas since January \ February 1916.
On the day…………………………………
Amara War Cemetery
Amara was occupied by the Mesopotamian Expeditionary Force on 3 June 1915 and it immediately became a hospital centre. The accommodation for medical units on both banks of the Tigris was greatly increased during 1916 and in April 1917, seven general hospitals and some smaller units were stationed there. Amara War Cemetery contains 4,621 burials of the First World War, more than 3,000 of which were brought into the cemetery after the Armistice. 925 of the graves are unidentified. In 1933, all of the headstones were removed from this cemetery when it was discovered that salts in the soil were causing them to deteriorate. Instead a screen wall was erected with the names of those buried in the cemetery engraved upon it.
www.cwgc.org/visit-us/find-cemeteries-memorials/cemetery-...
Although the balance of his pay and his war gratuity went to Mrs Ann Street, so far no dependants pension has been discovered for her. This was a financial dependency, usually witnessed by the deceased soldier having had deductions from his wages paid over to the dependant.
His mother Matilda did make a claim for a Dependant’s Pension. Her Pension Card from the Ministry of Pension records shows that Charles Albert Smith Died of Disease. An award of 3 shillings and sixpence per week was made, with Matildas’ address shown as 49 Vauxhall Street, Norwich. The card is noted that the claim ceased in 1929.
24th August 1918 – Death of Henry “Harry” Smith……
The death of a 70 year old Harry Smith was registered in the Norwich District in the July to September quarter, (Q3), of 1918. No obvious entry in the Probate Calendar.
1929 – Death of Matilda Smith……………………….
The death of the 82 year old Matilda Sith was registered in the Norwich District in the April to June quarter, (Q2), of 1929. No obvious entry in the Probate Calendar.
This card was sent by my great-great-grandmother to her son in 1902. I know nothing about her except that she was a tailoress born in Colchester who moved to Stepney with her mariner husband. Maybe she's in the previous photo, who knows?
The card is printed on a stiff imitation vellum with a paper insert. The green is gravure printed, the gold is bronze-dusted letterpress and the picture, which is pasted on, looks like collotype. I bet it was expensive.
Toghill, Leslie C
TOGHILL, LESLIE CYRIL
Rank: Sergeant
Service No: 612946
Date of Death: 12/02/1942
Age: 23
Service: Royal Air Force, 49 Sqdn.
Panel Reference Panel 95.
Memorial RUNNYMEDE MEMORIAL
Additional Information:
Son of Frederick Henry and Grace Ellen Toghill, of Norwich.
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search-for-war-dead/casualty/1808883/TOGHILL...
In the official Casualty Communique number 173, printed in Flight Magazine on the 19th November, Sergeant L C Toghill is listed amongst those who were “Previously reported missing, now presumed Killed in Action”
12 February, 1942: In recent months, Bomber Command had dropped over 3,000 tons of bombs on the battle cruisers 'Scharnhorst' and 'Gneisenau' and the light cruiser 'Prinz Eugen' as they resided in the French port of Brest. The two larger ships had both been badly damaged, and the threat of further damage had prevented the ships from sailing out into the Atlantic on another raid against allied shipping. In a daring and well-executed operation, the Germans sailed their 3 ships straight up through the English Channel to bring them back to the greater protection of a German port. What followed on the part of the British Command has since been labelled as a catalogue of catastrophes, needless to say that the German warships achieved their destination unharmed. Heavily armed and protected by the Luftwaffe, the Germans exacted a heavy toll during the gallant British attempts to stop their breakout; Fighter Command lost 16 aircraft and the Fleet Air Arm had 6 Swordfish destroyed. Bomber Command's part in the action involved 244 aircraft of which 15 were lost in action, and a further 2 crashing on return. Only 5 Group had been on a 4 hour 'stand by', as bomber Squadrons made frantic efforts to prepare their aircraft. Eventually, 5 Group contributed 64 Hampdens and 15 Manchesters to attack the German warships; 9 Hampdens were reported missing and one crashed on return. 49 Squadron's participation was prompted by a signal from Group received at 10.00hrs requesting 20 aircraft to attack the 'Scharnhorst' and 'Gneisenau' at sea! Cpl Trevor Simpson recalls the urgency with which the preparations were carried out, and he is almost certain that this was the occasion when the Hampdens were taxied into a hangar, bombed up and then taxied out!
In low cloud and rain with extremely poor visibility, only 3 of the squadron's aircraft found the primary target.
It is now believed that two of the aircraft were shot down by German fighters, AE132 piloted by F/Sgt Charles Pollitt and AE396 flown by Sgt Edward Phillips. What we do know for certain is that these two crews plus that of Sgt Mervyn Holt (AE249) disappeared into the dark waters of the North Sea without trace; they are all remembered at Runnymede.
Hampden AE396 (EA-W)
Sgt E.W. Phillips Pilot (Missing)
Sgt A. Jackson W/OP (Missing)
Sgt K.W. Heard Pilot (Missing)
Sgt L.C. Toghill A/G (Missing)
www.bomberhistory.co.uk/49squadron/Roll%20of%20honour/Rol...
Sergeant Edward Walter Phillips, aged 21 - Son of Edward A. and Mary E. Phillips, of Conisbrough, Yorkshire.
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search-for-war-dead/casualty/1804294/PHILLIP...
Sergeant Alexander Jackson, aged 20 - Son of Alexander William and Elsie Jackson, of New Wortley, Leeds, Yorkshire
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search-for-war-dead/casualty/1800975/JACKSON...
Sergeant Kenneth William Heard, aged 20 - Son of John Edward and Emily Winifred Heard, of Leamington Spa, Warwickshire.
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search-for-war-dead/casualty/1799831/HEARD,%...
Tuck, Derrick B
TUCK, DERRICK BERNARD
Rank: Sergeant
Trade: Air Gnr.
Service No: 3000563
Date of Death: 25/06/1945
Age: 19
Service: Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve
Grave Reference 2. E. 10.
Cemetery MOASCAR WAR CEMETERY
Additional Information:
Son of Albert George and Mabel Gertrude Tuck, of Great Yarmouth, Norfolk.
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search-for-war-dead/casualty/2114827/TUCK,%2...
MOASCAR WAR CEMETERY, Egypt.
Historical Information
Moascar was the name given to the military camp near the town of Ismailia. The desert cemetery was started at Moascar by the military authorities for the burial of war casualties, mainly from the Canal Zone. After the war, further graves were moved into the cemetery from a number of burial grounds in the vicinity where permanent maintenance was not possible.
CWGC www.cwgc.org/find-a-cemetery/cemetery/2009801/MOASCAR%20W...
I can’t find a reference to Derrick in the Official Casualty Lists held at the Flight site, but they are poorly indexed.
I could not find any reference to a crash in Egypt on this day.
.
Winter, Russell H
WINTER, RUSSELL HARRY
Rank: Flying Officer
Trade: W.Op./Air Gnr.
Service No: 169680
Date of Death: 28/07/1944
Age: 29
Service: Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, 78 Sqdn.
Grave Reference Grave 11.
Cemetery ST. JORIS COMMUNAL CEMETERY
Additional Information:
Son of George and Lilian Winter, of Norwich; husband of Irene Mabel Winter, of Upper Hillesdon, Norwich.
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search-for-war-dead/casualty/2253042/WINTER,...
Another one who wasn’t readily traceable through the official casualty lists as printed in Flight Magazine.
78 Squadrons were flying Halifax’s at this time.
Bomber Command Diary
27/28 July 1944
30 Mosquitos to Stuttgart and 12 aircraft on Resistance operations. No aircraft lost.
28 July 1944
199 aircraft - 159 Halifaxes, 20 Mosquitos, 20 Stirlings - of Nos 3, 4 and 8 Groups attacked two launching sites and made two further separate raids on the Forêt de Nieppe storage site. All bombing was through cloud but the various methods used were believed to have led to accurate results. 1 Halifax lost from one of the Forêt de Nieppe raids.
28/29 July 1944
494 Lancasters and 2 Mosquitos of Nos 1, 3, 5 and 8 Groups in the last raid of the current series on Stuttgart. German fighters intercepted the bomber stream while over France on the outward flight; there was a bright moon and 39 Lancasters were shot down, 19 per cent of the force.
307 aircraft - 187 Halifaxes, 106 Lancasters, 14 Mosquitos from Nos 1, 6 and 8 Groups - to Hamburg. German fighters again appeared, this time on the homeward flight, and 18 Halifaxes and 4 Lancasters were lost, 12 per cent of the force. The Halifax casualties were 9.6 per cent; No 431 (Canadian) Squadron, flying from Croft airfield in Co. Durham, lost 5 of its 17 aircraft on the raid. This was the first heavy raid on Hamburg since the Battle of Hamburg just a year earlier. The bombing on this raid was not well concentrated. The Germans estimated that only 120 aircraft bombed in the city area, with no recognisable aiming point, though western and harbour areas received the most bombs.
119 aircraft of Nos 1, 4 and 8 Groups attacked the flying bomb stores area at Forêt De Nieppe again. No aircraft lost.
Support and 95 training aircraft on a diversionary sweep over the North Sea, 13 Mosquitos to Frankfurt, 41 RCM sorties, 50 Mosquito patrols, 5 Halifaxes minelaying in the River Elbe. No aircraft lost.
Total effort for the night: 1,126 sorties, 61 aircraft (5.4 per cent) lost.
www.raf.mod.uk/bombercommand/jul44.html
Other casualties from 78 Squadron who died the same day and who are buried in the St Joris Communal Cemetery:-
Flight Lieutenant William Gladstone Hoffman, aged 21, Pilot.
Son of Eagar and Hazel Hoffman; husband of Nan Hoffman, of Forres, Morayshire.
www.cwgc.org/search-for-war-dead/casualty/2253038/HOFFMAN...
The headstones can be seen here
www.inmemories.com/Cemeteries/stjoris.htm
A closer shot of the headstone shows the Star of David.
twgpp.org/information.php?id=2903832
There is a bit more about the cemetery, which attributes Russell Winter and William Hoffman as members of the same crew, of Halifax MZ340 on this Dutch Language site.
translate.google.co.uk/translate?hl=en&sl=nl&u=ht...
There is actually a monument to the crew of the plane, for which there is a photograph on the same site. I’ve tried to tidy up the Google translation of the original piece in Dutch.
Took off at 16.04 on the 28th July from RAF Breighton, England, with a target of the V1 sites and stores in the Forest of Nieppe. 8 miles from the Belgium coast it was hit by German Flak from unit Abt 252 located at Mariakerke, Ostend. The pilot avoided Nieport City, and dropped 16 225kg bombs between St Joris and Kappelle, accidentally killing two civilians at St Joris. The pilot stayed with the damaged aircraft so that the crew could escape. Wireless Operator\Air Gunner Harry Russell Winter was found drowned in the canal with a torn parachute. Halifax EY-X with Pilot William Hoffman aboard crashed at 17.59 at a farm near Great Noordhof.
The crew who survived the crash were F/O W I F Bell, (Navigator), F/O Ronald E F Collier (Bomb Aimer), P/O Kevin W Burns, (Flight Engineer), Sergeant George R G Marley, (Mid-Upper Gunner) and Sergeant Robert C Laing, (Rear Gunner). They were all taken Prisoner. There is a book about the crash, “The Last Flight of Halifax Mk 111 MZ-340 EY-X” by Jean-Pierre Vandorpe.
www.aviationheritage.eu/nl/content/monument-slachtoffers-...
A local comments on a Dutch Forum site that he witnessed the crash, Russell is believed to have struck his head on the door frame and was unconscious when he fell. His parachute did not open.
www.forumeerstewereldoorlog.nl/viewtopic.php?t=8897&s...
Wakefield, Charles A,
WAKEFIELD, CHARLES ALBERT
Rank: Yeoman of Signals
Service No: C/J 39854
Date of Death: 15/02/1942
Age: 42
Service: Royal Navy, H.M.S. President III
Panel Reference 58, 2.
Memorial CHATHAM NAVAL MEMORIAL
Additional Information:
Son of Albert and Mary Louise Wakefield; husband of Ethel Wakefield, of Norwich, Norfolk.
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search-for-war-dead/casualty/2473562/WAKEFIE...
On the 1900 census, the 1 year old Charles A, (Born Hellesdon, Norfolk) was recorded at 159 Aylsham Road, Norwich. At that time this part of Aylsham Road fell within the Parish of St Mary Hellesdon.
This was the household of his parents, Albert E, (aged 25 and a Brickmaker from Heydon, Norfolk) and Louisa, (aged 22 and a Tailoress from Horsford, Norfolk).
The most likely match on the GRO index of marriages is that of a Charles A Wakefield to an Ethel Crossfield that took place in St Georges, Hanover Square, London in the July to September 1929 quarter.
15/02/1942
Empire Spring, steamship
BROWN, Walter T, Act/Able Seaman, C/JX 186153, (President III, O/P), MPK
CHAPMAN, Charles O, Ordinary Telegraphist, P/JX 197809, (President III, O/P), MPK
COX, Albert E G, Convoy Signalmam, C/JX 174046, (Pembroke, O/P), MPK
DIBBEN, Arthur D H, Captain, (Eaglet, O/P), MPK
HARRISON, Arthur, Act/Able Seaman, D/JX 214735, (President III, O/P), MPK
JEFFS, Alexander G, Ordinary Signalman, C/JX 185518, (President III, O/P), MPK
STARKEY, Herbert J, Act/Able Seaman, C/JX 223501, (President III, O/P), MPK
THOMPSON, Robert, Leading Signalman, C/JX 185536, (Pembroke, O/P), MPK
WAKEFIELD, Charles A, Convoy Yeoman of Signals, C/J 39854, (Pembroke, O/P), MPK
WATSON, Lewis T, Convoy Signalmam, C/JX 174071, (Pembroke, O/P), MPK
www.naval-history.net/xDKCas1942-02FEB.htm
Empire Spring
Empire Spring was a 6,946 GRT CAM ship which was built by Lithgows Ltd, Port Glasgow. Launched on 8 March 1941 and completed in June 1941. Torpedoed on 14 February 1942 and sunk by U-576 in the North Atlantic.
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Empire_ships_(Si%E2%80%93Sy)#Empire_Spring
She had left the Mersey on the 5th February 1942 in Convoy. The convoy broke up on the 15th February 1942 and the Empire Spring went missing, presumed hit by German Submarine U-576 and sunk with her crew of 42 and 5 Gunners.
www.wrecksite.eu/wreck.aspx?30961
Watson, Arthur C.
WATSON, ARTHUR CHARLES
Rank: Chief Engine Room Artificer
Service No: C/M 34510
Date of Death: 24/08/1940
Age: 37
Regiment/Service: Royal Navy, H.M.S. Penzance
Panel Reference 37, 2.
Memorial CHATHAM NAVAL MEMORIAL
Additional Information:
Son of Henry and Alice Watson; husband of Elsie Edith Watson, of Norwich, Norfolk.
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search-for-war-dead/casualty/2473733/WATSON,...
At 20.38 hours on 24 Aug, 1940, HMS Penzance (L 28) (Cdr A.J. Wavish, RN), escorting the convoy SC-1, was hit by one torpedo from U-37, broke in two and sank in a few minutes southwest of Iceland. When the stern section sank the unsecured depth charges detonated, killing some of the survivors swimming in the water and slightly damaging the U-boat. Nevertheless two ships from the convoy stopped to pick up survivors. Twelve men were picked up by the British steam merchant Fylingdale, but one of them later died of injures and was buried at sea. Seven men were picked up by the Blairmore, which was torpedoed and sunk by the same U-boat later that night. All men from the sloop survived the second sinking, were rescued after about 17 hours by the Swedish motor merchant Eknaren (Master Erik Kallstrom) and landed at Baltimore.
Complement 108 officers and men (90 dead and 18 survivors).
www.uboat.net/allies/merchants/474.html
Webster, Stanley G
WEBSTER, STANLEY GORDON
Rank: Serjeant
Service No: T/45514
Date of Death: 08/07/1942
Regiment/Service: Royal Army Service Corps
Grave Reference 3. G. 7.
Cemetery BEIRUT WAR CEMETERY
Additional Information:
Son of Thomas William and Florence Elizabeth Webster, of Norwich.
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search-for-war-dead/casualty/2188096/WEBSTER...
Woods, Charles W.
Probably
WOODS, CHARLES WILLIAM
Rank: Driver
Service No: T/221302
Date of Death: 14/01/1944
Age: 32
Regiment/Service: Royal Army Service Corps
Grave Reference II. D. 26.
Cemetery BARI WAR CEMETERY
Additional Information:
Son of William and Florance Woods, of Norwich; husband of Hannah Elizabeth Woods, of Norwich.
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search-for-war-dead/casualty/2077260/WOODS,%...
Yallop, John S
(Only match)
YALLOP, JOHN SIDNEY
Rank: Able Seaman
Service No: C/J 96159
Date of Death: 17/09/1940
Service: Royal Navy, H.M.S. Kent
Panel Reference 36, 2.
Memorial CHATHAM NAVAL MEMORIAL
Additional Information:
Husband of M. M. Yallop.
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search-for-war-dead/casualty/2474343/YALLOP,...
Photograph of HMS Kent
www.naval-history.net/Photo06caKent1NP.jpg
September 1940
17th Carried out bombardment of Fort Cappuzo.
Hit by torpedo from Italian aircraft during air attacks and disabled.
Taken in tow by HMS NUBIAN.
19th Arrived in tow at Alexandria, where emergency repairs were carried out.
www.naval-history.net/xGM-Chrono-06CA-Kent.htm
John was one of 33 crew members killed in the attack including a father and son.
On 15 September 1940 the battleship Valiant, the aircraft carrier Illustrious, Kent, the anti-aircraft cruisers Calcutta and Coventry, and seven destroyers left Alexandria bound for Benghazi. During the night of 16/17 September 1940, aircraft from the Illustrious mined the harbour of Benghazi. They also attacked shipping in the harbour with torpedoes and bombs, sinking two destroyers and two merchant ships. Kent and two destroyers were detached to bombard Bardia while returning to Alexandria. During the night of 17/18 September 1940 the ship was hit in the stern by a torpedo from Italian Savoia-Marchetti SM.79 bombers from the 279th Independent Torpedo Squadron (Italian: Squadriglie Autonomo Aerosiluranti) led by Carlo Emanuele Buscaglia. She was towed back to base by the destroyers with great difficulty.[
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/HMS_Kent_(54)
The Italian Army had crossed the Libyan border into Egypt a few days earlier and had re-taken Fort Capuzzo. The British Army had retreated to prepared position, leaving only a light screen of troops to delay the Italians advance. Part of the deception was to make the screen seen much stronger than it was. In deterring the Italian advance up the coastal road, the Royal Navy bombardment was part of that deception.
Panel 2
Merry A F
Only A F Merry on the CWGC database - however see notes below.
Name: MERRY Initials: A F
Rank: Lance Corporal
Regiment: East Yorkshire Regiment Unit Text: 7th Bn.
Date of Death: 19/10/1918
Service No: 7914
Grave/Memorial Reference: I. C. 23. Cemetery: BEAULENCOURT BRITISH CEMETERY, LIGNY-THILLOY
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=564755
No match on Norlink
The Great War Roll of Honour confirms this is an Alfred F.
There is a 12 year old Alfred F, (born Norwich), recorded on the 1901 census at 72 Spencer Street West in the Parish of St James. This is the household of his parents, Alfred, (aged 35 and a Printers Machinist from Norwich), and Rosena A. (aged 35 and from Norwich). Their other children are:-
Henry……………….aged 2.……………….born Norwich
Leonard…………….aged 6.……………….born Norwich
Lily R………………aged 13.………………born Norwich
Percy Wm…………..aged 9.……………….born Norwich
William Stephen……aged u/1.…………….born Norwich
He does not appear to be on the 1911 census, although parents Alfred and Rosena are.
No match on Norlink
Thanks to the East Yorkshire Regiment web-site we can find out a bit more;
Service Number: 7914
Birthplace: Fackenham (Presumably Fakenham)
Enlisted: Great Yarmouth
Battalion: 7th Battalion East Yorkshire Regiment Service
Notes:
Draft from 1st Battalion to 2nd Battalion 26 February 1907
Snapper April 1907
2nd Battalion 2nd class shot D Coy January 1908
2nd Battalion Granted 1st Good Conduct Badge April 1911
1st Battalion Transfer to Army Reserve April 1913
1st Battalion Posted wounded Snapper February 1915
Wounded during April/May 1915
1st Battalion Casualty List Hull Daily Mail 21 September 1915
Died: Died 17 October 1918
www.east-yorkshire-regiment.co.uk/db/troops/search.php
The 1911 census has an Alfred Merry born circa 1887 Fakenham, current whereabouts not shown, (common for Military establishment) - Indeed on the “Welcome to the 1911 Census site, location is classified as Overseas Military.
The same individual does not appear to be on the 1901 census.
There is no trace on the 1891 census, there are also no Merry’s in Fakenham, and the only Merry in Great Yarmouth is a late 40’s Widowed Laundress and her Elderly mother.
Therefore, not sure where Fackenham\Fakenham comes into the picture or the enlistment in Great Yarmouth.
Do we need to look at the other possible candidates
Name: MERRY, ALFRED
Rank: Lance Corporal
Regiment/Service: Bedfordshire Regiment Unit Text: 2nd Bn.
Date of Death: 22/03/1918
Service No: 14524
Grave/Memorial Reference: Panel 28 and 29. Memorial: POZIERES MEMORIAL
Source: www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=1585439
However, the Gedling War Memorial web-site has this additional information
born Stoke Bardolph enlisted Nottm. (Stoke Bardolph), killed in action France and Flanders 22.3.18.
southwellchurches.nottingham.ac.uk/gedling/hwarmem.php
Which leaves us with:-
Name: MERRY Initials: A J
Rank: Private
Regiment/Service: Royal Fusiliers Unit Text: 9th Bn.
Date of Death: 07/10/1916
Service No: 17721
Grave/Memorial Reference: III. A. 27. Cemetery: BEAULENCOURT BRITISH CEMETERY, LIGNY-THILLOY
Source: www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=564756
(Great War Roll of Honour confirms as Alfred)
Or
Name: MERRY, ALFRED WILLIAM
Rank: Private
Regiment/Service: Royal Fusiliers Unit Text: 1st Bn.
Date of Death: 21/08/1916
Service No: 9030
Grave/Memorial Reference: Pier and Face 8 C 9 A and 16 A. Memorial: THIEPVAL MEMORIAL
Source: www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=806034
Or alternatively A F Merry died outside the date range of the Great War Roll of Honour, (1914-1918) and the CWGC database (1914 - 1921)
Minns W E
No match for a W E and no obvious W Minns choice
No match on Norlink
There is no W E Minns on the Great War Roll of Honour.
Checking the baptism records, there is a Walter Ernest, baptised at St Martin with Oak on the 27th September 1898. Unfortunately no date of birth is given. Walter’s place of residence is given as Blooms Yard, and his parents are Walter, (who works as a rivetter) and Elixa.
Potentials are:
Private Walter Minns : 20782: Suffolk Regiment - died 1918
Private Walter Minns : 302050 : Argyll & Sutherland Highlanders - died 1918.
Going to the CWGC records for the Argyll and Sutherland man, the additional information tends to connect him with London
Son of Walter and Ellen Minns, of Acton, London; husband of Emily Minns, of 17A, Rothschild Rd., Chiswick Park, London.
CWGC: www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=67734
Therefore the prime candidate looks like the Suffolk Regiment man.
Name: MINNS Initials: W
Rank: Private
Regiment: Suffolk Regiment Unit Text: 2nd Bn.
Date of Death: 19/03/1916
Service No: 6507
Grave/Memorial Reference: I. B. 10. Cemetery: RENINGHELST NEW MILITARY CEMETERY
CWGC: www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=152902
The village of Reninghelst (now Reningelst) was occupied by Commonwealth forces from the late autumn of 1914 to the end of the war and was sufficiently far from the front line to provide a suitable station for field ambulances. The earliest burials took place in the Churchyard, but in November 1915, the New Military Cemetery was opened. It remained in use until September 1918.
CWGC: www.cwgc.org/search/cemetery_details.aspx?cemetery=15200&...
Murton B
Name: MURTON, BERTIE
Rank: Private
Regiment: Norfolk Regiment
Unit Text: 7th Bn.
Age: 21
Date of Death: 13/10/1915
Service No: 19065
Additional information: Son of Paul William Murton, of 3, Turner's Court, St. Benedict's, Norwich. His brother Ernest also fell.
Grave/Memorial Reference: Panel 30 and 31. Memorial: LOOS MEMORIAL
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=1765515
For completeness - brother Ernest
Name: MURTON, ERNEST PAUL
Rank: Lance Corporal
Regiment: Norfolk Regiment
Unit Text: 7th Bn.
Age: 28
Date of Death: 13/10/1915
Service No: 15616
Additional information: Husband of Alice Manthorpe (formerly Murton), of 26, Lawson Rd., Norwich.
Grave/Memorial Reference: Panel 30 and 31. Memorial: LOOS MEMORIAL
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=1765517
No match on Norlink
The 6 year old Bertie, (born Norwich), is recorded on the 1901 census at 2, Webbs Court in the Parish of St Paul. This is the household of his parents, Paul, (aged 35 and a Boot Laster from Norwich), and Harriet, (aged 34 and a Hair Weaver from Norwich). Their other children are:-
Ernest P……………aged 12.…………..born Norwich
Leslie………………aged 5 months…….born Norwich
Lily…………………aged 3.……………born Norwich
Sidney H……………aged 10.…………born Norwich
7th (Service) Battalion was formed at Norwich in August 1914 as part of K1, the first of Kitcheners Armies. In August 1914 it was attached to 35th Brigade, 12th (Eastern) Division. This was one of the first New Army divisions to be formed and was assembled around Colchester, the divisional artillery nearby at Shorncliffe, from late August 1914. Divisional training was completed near Aldershot from February 1915, and the Division moved to France between 29th May and 4th June 1915. Privates Beevor, Flaxman, and Wigg (the latter was from Toft Monks) were all in A Company and were all killed in the same action. A letter was sent to Reverend Lawson, then the incumbent at Haddiscoe, informing him of their deaths. Commanded by Lieutenant Colonel Caroll, 30 Officers and 954 other ranks embarked aboard the Invicta at Folkestone bound for Boulogne on 30th May 1915. The first Kitchener Battalion raised by the Norfolk Regiment, 7 Battalion was formed at Shorncliffe. Uniforms, equipment and blankets were slow in arriving and they initially wore emergency blue uniforms and carried dummy weapons. 1,114 men from the battalion were killed during the First World War. After arrival in France they took over trenches 113-120 at Ploegsteert Wood on 4th July 1915. On 12th October 1915 the Battalion moved from billets to a line in front of the St Elie Quarries, taking over from the Coldstream Guards. The attack was planned to go ahead the following day under a smoke cloud with the Norfolks closing on the German trenches from both ends of their position thus straightening their line, their own trenches being in a semi-circle. The left side of the Battalion was also tasked with bombing a German communications trench. A bright sunny day with an ideal wind for moving the smoke towards the enemy positions, the artillery bombardment began at 12:00 and was intensive by 13:45. 54 heavy and 86 field howitzers and 286 field guns fired on enemy trenches in the area of the Hohenzollern Redoubt, Fosse 8, the Quarries, Gun Trench and the positions south to Chalk Pit Wood. It failed to cause sufficient damage to the enemy positions. The smoke barrage went wrong and ceased by 13:40, twenty minutes before the attack was launched at 14:00 and was thus very thin. German machine gun fire from in front and from the direction of Slag Alley, opposite the Norfolks right flank, enfiladed their attack. Whilst they gained a foothold in the Quarries and consolidated the position they were unable to advance further. In the battalions first serious engagement they lost 5 Officers killed or died of wounds and 6 wounded, and 66 other ranks killed, 196 wounded and 160 missing.
Source: 1914-1918.invisionzone.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=42270
Orvice G A G
Name: ORVICE, GEORGE ARTHUR GENTRY
Rank: Private
Regiment: Norfolk Regiment
Unit Text: 1st/4th Bn.
Date of Death: 19/04/1917
Service No: 200700
Grave/Memorial Reference: Panels 12 to 15. Memorial: JERUSALEM MEMORIAL
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=1646560
No match on Norlink
The most likely match on the Genes Re-united Transcription of the 1901 Census for England and Wales is a 9 year old George, (born Colchester) who is recorded in some kind of institution in the St Matthews Parish of Thorpe, Norwich, on the night of Sunday 31st March 1901.
This is presumably something to do with the nearby Britannia Barracks, as the inmates are nearly all described as either wife of soldier, or children of soldier. (One family group has a male head whose occupation is given as Barrack Labourer). The relevant lines on the page start with George’s mother, Harriet, (aged 34, born Colchester), then George, (son of soldier), and then her other children, May, (aged 7, born Morley\Narley(??), Essex), Leslie, (aged 6, born Norwich), and Frederick (aged 2, born Norwich)
Going back to the 1891 census gives us a clearer picture. Harriet already married, is recorded at Ivy Place, Old Heath Colchester. This is the household of her parents, Gentry Culf, (aged 72 and an Agricultural Labourer) ,and Eliza, (aged 65). Making up the household is Harriet’s husband, George, who’s occupation is given as Lance Sergeant, 2nd Battalion, Norfolk Regiment.
Both George Senior and George Junior are recorded in the Norwich area on the 1911 census.
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
Pillow H M
Possibly same Henry Montgomery Scott Pillow, who also appears on the St Peter Mancroft memorial
www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=87268
Norlink picture
norlink.norfolk.gov.uk/02_Catalogue/02_013_PictureTitleIn...
Accompanying notes
Second Lieutenant Pillow was born in Norwich on 31st March 1895. He was educated at Norwich Grammar School, and was a medical student at Guy's Hospital in London. He enlisted as a Private in September 1914, and was killed in action north west of Ypres on 8th August 1917
Name: SCOTT-PILLOW Initials: H M
Rank: Second Lieutenant
Service: Royal Flying Corps Unit Text: 7th Sqdn.
Secondary Regiment: Middlesex Regiment Secondary Unit Text: and Date of Death: 08/08/1917
Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: III. D. 3. Cemetery: MENDINGHEM MILITARY CEMETERY
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=87268
There are a set of papers for the Scott-Pillow family in the National Archive via the Norfolk Records Office.
Administrative history:
Margaret Scott was born in Norwich. Her interest was always in domestic education and at various times she was chairman of the Association of Teachers of Domestic Science, a member of Norwich School Board, and an examiner in cookery and domestic science. She married Edward Pillow in 1891. On his death in 1910 she took up the running of Princes Restaurant, Castle Street, Norwich. She died in 1929.
Edward Pillow was born in Cambridge in 1852. An engineer by profession he was chief engineer of the Mechanical Testing Department, Crewe, Engineering Works of the London and North West Railway Co.
In 1891 he moved to Norwich, married and became Organising Secretary for Technical Education, Norfolk County Council. He died in 1910.
Edward and Margaret had two sons. The elder son, also named Edward, married Sabine Barwell the daughter of J. E. H. Barwell and Mrs. Barwell, better known as the singer Madame Ruth Lamb. After his mother's death Edward took over the running of the restaurant. Their second son Henry Montgomery Scott Pillow was born on 31st March 1895 and died on active service in a flying accident on 8th August 1917.
Contents:
Business records; educational papers of Margaret Scott-Pillow and family papers of the Scott, Pillow and Barwell families.
www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/a2a/records.aspx?cat=153-br12...
Includes
Letters of sympathy on death of Margaret's son Henry in the war BR124/70 1917
'Dental Record' with obituary of Henry Scott Pillow BR124/71 1917
'Guy's Hospital Gazette' with note of death of Henry Scott Pillow BR124/72 1918
An obituary for Second Lieutenant Henry Montgomery Scott Pillow appeared in the August 23rd 1917 edition of “Flight”
Killed on August 8th. He was born in March, 1895, and was the second son of Mrs Pillow, Chief Examiner of the Government Colleges for training teachers in cookery and domestic science and vice-chairman of the Public Service Board, and of the late Edward Pillow, for many years Education Secretary to the Norfolk County Council. He was educated at Norwich Grammar School and was a student at Guy’s Hospital. Within a month of outbreak of war, he joined the Public Schools Brigade and shortly afterwards went on active service abroad as a Private in the Royal Fusiliers. After seven months of services in the trenches he was sent home to train for a commission, and in due course he was gazetted to the Middlesex Regiment, and later transferred to the R.F.C. After gaining the full qualifications, he went to the Front on July 28th, and met his death within 10 days. His elder brother, now the only surviving son of Mrs Pillow, is also an officer and is serving abroad.
www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1917/1917%20-%200872...
Flying Officer, (Temporary 2nd Lt) H M S Pillow is shown as being transferred from the Middlesex Regiment in the London Gazette for the 15th August 1917
www.london-gazette.co.uk/issues/30232/supplements/8312
During 1916, the Squadron standardised on BE2s and then received RE8s in 1917 still in its observation role.
www.raf.mod.uk/organisation/7squadron.cfm
The 6 year old Henry M S Pillow, (born Norwich), is recorded on the 1901 census at “The Grange”, Thorpe Road, Norwich. This is the household of his father, Edward Pillow, (aged 49 and a Organising Secretary, Technical Education who was born a British citizen in Greece). Making up the household is his older brother, Edward S, (aged 7 and born Norwich), plus a Governess and a Domestic Servant.
His mother, Margaret Pillow, aged 39 and born Norwich, is recorded as a visitor at 63 High Street, Marylebone, London. She was staying with Loombe Brooke, a widower aged 53, whos' occupation is listed as School Head Teacher.
The baptism of Henry Montgomery Scott Pillow took place at St Peter Mancroft on the 12th July 1895. His birth date is given as the 31st March 1895. His parents are Edward and Margaret Eleanor, who reside at Carlton Terrace, Mill Hill Road. Father’s occupation is given as Organising Secretary of Technical Instruction.
Pummell E
Name: PUMMELL, EPHRAIM
Rank: Private
Service: Royal Army Medical Corps
Unit Text: 88th Field Amb
Age: 27
Date of Death: 22/08/1917
Service No: 475295
Additional information: Son of Robert and Mary Ann Pummell; husband of Laura Alice Pummell, of 94, Muriel Rd., Christ Church Rd., Norwich.
Grave/Memorial Reference: IV. G. 9. Cemetery: DOZINGHEM MILITARY CEMETERY
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=153763
No match on Norlink
Ephraim doesn’t appear to be on the Genes Re-united transcription of the 1901 census for England and Wales, however he is on the 1911 one, born Norwich and still recorded in the District of Norwich.
Ephraim’s parents are on the 1901 census, recorded at 3, Lord Camden’s yard, in the Parish of St Gregorys. Robert, aged 40 and born Norwich, is a self-employed shoe maker. His wife, Mary-Ann, is aged 39 and from Bunwell. Their other children are:-
Robert S……………….aged 15.……….born Norwich…..Occupation is indecipherable
Ellen…………………..aged 14.………..born Norwich
Samuel…………………aged 8.………..born Norwich
Ethel…………………..aged 6.…………born Norwich
Alfred…………………aged 5.…………born Norwich
Maria………………….aged 3.…………born Norwich
Gertrude………………aged 1.………….born Norwich
Beatrice……………….aged u/1.……….born Norwich.
A check of the original page shows that those naughty transcribers at Genes Re-united have been up to their usual tricks. At 1, Lord Camdens Yard is a Samuel Pummell, a 69 year old widowed shoe maker from Norwich. Recorded as living with him is the 11 year old Ephraim.
The 88th, (1st East Anglian) Field Ambulance were assigned to the 29th Division.
The 29th had been involved in the opening days of the battle of Langemarck, (Part of Third Ypres or Passchendaele), including the 88th Brigade, to which the 88th Field Ambulance would have been assigned. Private Plummer could well have been serving as a stretcher bearer, bringing in the wounded.
While researching the period, I came across another possible cause of death relating to an incident which took place on the 21st.
A unique casualty of the day's fighting was Nurse Nellie Spindler from Wakefield who died when her Casualty Clearing Station was shelled and she was mortally wounded. Interred in Lijssenthoek Cemetery, she is the only British woman buried in the Ypres Salient.
forum.irishmilitaryonline.com/showthread.php?t=11535&...
Pye F
Possibly
Name: PYE, FRED JAMES
Rank: Private
Regiment: Norfolk Regiment
Unit Text: 8th Bn.
Age: 20
Date of Death: 11/08/1917
Service No: 29333
Additional information: Son of Fred Walter and Amelia Pye, of 116, Magdalen Rd., Norwich.
Grave/Memorial Reference: I. P. 15. Cemetery: DIVISIONAL COLLECTING POST CEMETERY AND EXTENSION
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=480887
There is a picture of a Frederick James Pye of the 8th Norfolks on Norlink. There are no additional notes.
norlink.norfolk.gov.uk/02_Catalogue/02_013_PictureTitleIn...
The Welcome to the 1911 census web-site has a 14 year old Frederick James recorded in the District of Norwich
(and no Fredrick or Fred).
On the 1901 Census there is a 4 year old Fredk J Pye, born Norwich, recorded at 62 Sussex Street in the parish of St Augustines. This is the household of his parents, Fredk W, (age 39 and a Carpenter&Builder from Norwich), and Amelia, (aged 44 and from Norwich). The Pye’s also have a daughter, Olve F, aged 5.
11th August 1917
Saturday 11th August 1917 - Day 12 Third Ypres
Westhoek
18th Div
During the relief of 7th Bedfords by 8th Norfolks at 4.30am the Germans attacked and captured a pillbox. The Norfolks recaptured it at 6am.
forum.irishmilitaryonline.com/showthread.php?t=11535
Using a search engine, I’ve found the names of 56 men of the 8th Battalion who died on this day.
.Private R Abbs 32053
Private Stanley Barrett, 3/10813 age 31 from Maldon, Essex
Private Frederick Sylvester Beckett, 3/10454
Lance Corporal William Bennett 14807
Lance Corporal W J N Best 17020 age 28 from Gorleston
Private Robert Body, 19685
Captain William Bunting MC, age 22, from Terrington St John, Wisbech
Lance Serjeant George William Carr, 13380
Private Sidney George Claxton, 12024
Private Dennis Douglas, 16107, age 23 of Cawston
Lance Serjeant Arthur William Fairman, 16443
Private Joseph Fall, 9684
Lance Corporal James Frederick Hammond, 20371, age 29, from Bracon Ash
Private W Hampston, 20355
Lance Corporal Herbert Thomas Harrison, 30114
Private Richard John Hatton, 203674, age 22, from Luton.
Corporal Albert George Howard, 16448, age 32, from Honingham
Private Robert Henry Jellis, 3/10713, age 33, of Leighton, Huntingdonshire
Lance Corporal James Henry Kenyon, 20400, of Clacton on Sea
Corporal Ernest Larter, 43479
Private Albert Lee, 22771, age 21, of Morley Street, Norwich.
Private Percy Lewis, 30325
Private Bertie Harold Lown, 22779, age 19, from Colby, Norfolk
Private Harry Edwin Minns, 14866, age 23, from Bungay
Corporal Clement Barber Mitchell, 14000
Private Bertie Muteham, 24211, age 22
Private W J Ottaway, 24153
Sergeant R Page, 43538
Private John Pawley, 43701, age 27, from Fakenham
Lance Corporal George Pope, 3/7928, age 21, from Thelverton, Diss
Private Fred James Pye, 29333, age 20, of Magdalen Road, Norwich
Private Sampson Samuel Ransome, 20606, age 33, from Brampton, Huntingdonshire
Lance Serjeant Harry Percy Revell, 13329, age 25, from Lincoln
Lance Corporal Charles Riches, 12052
Private Samuel Riches, 43491
Private Robert Rigg, 18638
Private Reuben Dolan Rix, 13410
Lance Corporal A B Seaman, 29978
Lance Corporal William Smith, 3/8216, age 35, of St Martins Road, Norwich
Lance Corporal Harry Snelling, 16160
Private Arthur John Snowley, 19833, age 25, from Great Yarmouth
Lance Corporal Walter Reginald Oliver Speller, 14615, age 26, from Colchester
Private John Able Thompson, 16189, age 23, from Tittleshall, Kings Lynn
Private Reginald Vernon Tweedy, 27100, age 19, from Kings Lynn
Private Clement Sidney Wall, 14334, age 29, from Bergh Apton
Private Charles Arnold Waskett, 20676,
Private John Wells, 25674, age 29, from Brandon
Private Harry Percy Wheeler, 204161, age 37, from South Chard, Somerset
Private James Williamson, 22325
Private Henry John Witham, 30320
Private Richard Andrew Woffenden, 204165, age 27, from Barnoldswick, Yorks
Lance Corporal Dennis Wright, 14793, age 33, from Wroxham
Private Alan Robert Yarham, 43518
Private Horace Yaxley, 29372
Private Edgar Youngman, 14591, age 26, from Weybourne.
Private Herbert Mullett Youngs, 12283, age 21, from Mundham, Norfolk
Rix R W
Possible
Name: RIX, ROBERT WILLIAM
Rank: Private
Regiment: Guards Machine Gun Regiment
Unit Text: 4th Bn.
Age: 20
Date of Death: 12/10/1918
Service No: 2399
Additional information: Son of Robert and Betsy Rix, of 56, Pottergate, Norwich. Grave/Memorial Reference: I. A. 4. Cemetery: CARNIERES COMMUNAL CEMETERY EXTENSION
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=537005
No match on Norlink
The 2 year old Robert, (born “Pottergate, S Norwich”), is recorded on the 1901 census at 79 Pottergate, in the Parish of St Margarets. This is the household of his parents, Robert, (aged 43 and a Hand Boot Maker from Horsford, Norfolk), and Betsy, (aged 35 and from Old Lakenham, Norwich). Their other children are:-
Anne……………aged 7.………..born Pottergate, S Norwich
Daisy M………..aged 12.……….born Pottergate, S Norwich
Ruby……………aged 4.………..born Pottergate, S Norwich
The four Machine Gun Companies in the Guards Division were formed into a unit named the 4th Battalion Machine Gun Guards on 1st March 1918.
By a Royal Warrant of 10 May 1918, the Guards Machine Gun Regiment was formed. It comprised four Machine Gun Battalions: the three Household Cavalry Regiments (the 1st and 2nd Life Guards and the Royal Horse Guards) formed the 1st, 2nd and 3rd Battalions, and the 4th Battalion Machine Gun Guards joined and was renamed the 4th (Foot Guards) Battalion.
www.1914-1918.net/guardsmgr.htm
Carnieres was captured on 10 October 1918, and the Communal Cemetery Extension was made by the Guards Division a week later.
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/cemetery_details.aspx?cemetery=59905&...
Ranson R
Probably
Name: RANSON, RICHARD EDWARD CROFT
Rank: Captain
Regiment/Service: East Yorkshire Regiment Unit Text: 13th Bn.
Age: 24
Date of Death: 21/07/1916
Additional information: Only son of Eleanor Ranson, of "Maisonette," 8, Harbour Rd., Thorpe Hamlet, Norwich, and the late Edward Ranson.
Grave/Memorial Reference: VII. A. 23. Cemetery: MERVILLE COMMUNAL CEMETERY
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=539356
No match on Norlink
The 9 year old Richard E C Ranson, (born Kirkley, Suffolk), is recorded on the 1901 census at “Ambleside”, Thorpe Road, Norwich, in the Parish of St Matthews. This is the household of his parents, Edward, (aged 40 and a Timber Merchant from Ipswich, Suffolk), and Elenor, (aged 31 and from Saddington, Leicestershire). Their other children are:
Dorothia…………..aged 1.…………..born Dover, Kent
Kathlean…………..aged 3.…………..born Dover, Kent
Phyllis M………….aged 5.…………..born Dover, Kent
The Ranson’s have three live in servants, including a Governess, a Cook and a Housemaid.
I’m sure its just a coincidence, but one of John Cotman’s paintings is of Foundry bridge and Ransom’s Timber Yard, Riverside Road.. There is also a Ranson Road in Thorpe.
Claims were invited on the estate of Captain Richard Edward Croft Ranson, late 13th East Yorks, who died on active service in France, in this edition of the London Gazette.
www.london-gazette.co.uk/issues/29958/pages/1909/page.pdf
Its gives his addresses as late of St Augustines, Florida, USA and temporarily of 14 Fountain Street, Hull. His executrix is an Annie Ranson, (possibly a wife?). The firm of solicitors concerned, Watson and Everitt, are from Norwich.
Merville was the scene of fighting between the Germans and French and British cavalry early in October 1914 but from the 9th of that month to 11 April 1918, it remained in Allied hands. In October 1914, and in the autumn of 1915, the town was the headquarters of the Indian Corps. It was a railhead until May 1915, and a billeting and hospital centre from 1915-1918. The 6th and Lahore Casualty Clearing Stations were there from the autumn of 1914 to the autumn of 1915; the 7th from December 1914, to April 1917; the 54th (1st/2nd London) from August 1915 to March 1918, and the 51st (Highland) from May 1917 to April 1918. On the evening of 11 April 1918, in the Battles of the Lys, the Germans forced their way into Merville and the town was not retaken until 19 August. The cemeteries were not used again until the concentration of battlefield burials into the Extension began, after the Armistice.
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/cemetery_details.aspx?cemetery=60101&...
The 31st Division were engaged in the battle of the Somme from the 1st to the 13th July 1916, but then appear to have been withdrawn from the battle until November. Given the history of the cemetery where he was buried, I suspect Captain Ranson died from wounds sustained earlier in the month.
Robinson G
Name: ROBINSON, GEORGE
Rank: Private
Regiment/: Middlesex Regiment
Unit Text: 13th Bn.
Age: 23
Date of Death: 15/04/1917
Service No: 26352
Additional information: Son of Mr. and Mrs. John Robinson, of 48, Pottergate, Norwich. Grave/Memorial Reference: V. D. 4. Cemetery: LILLERS COMMUNAL CEMETERY
CWGC: www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=2947819
No match on Norlink
There are two possible on the 1911 census.
One born circa 1895, Norwich, and still recorded in Norwich. However, on the 1901 census, the father is listed as Richard, and the family then had moved to Pearcefield,, Sprowston.
The other was born Barford, Norfolk circa 1894 and doesn’t even come up on the 1901 census.
The Middlesex would fight alongside the Canadians in the Battle for Vimy Ridge at this time.
The Canadian Corps of 1917 contained four Canadian Divisions and one British Division. Of the 170,000 men detailed for the attack on Vimy Ridge, 97,000 were from Canada. The British contingent included the tunnellers who played an important part in the attack and the heavy gunners donated by the First Army. The Corps was commanded by Lieutenant-General the Honourable Sir Julian Byng, an unusually approachable British General for the period, with a great eye for detail and an understanding of the importance of planning
Byng’s preparations for the attack on Vimy Ridge were amongst the most impressive of the entire war. His answer to the problem of how to get his troops into the forward trenches without exposing them to German artillery fire was to dig twelve tunnel systems that reached up to, and sometimes beyond, the British front line. The attacking troops would enter the tunnels on the day before the attack, and emerge close to the German front lines. The subways also contained forward head quarters, field hospitals and supplies.
The attack was to be supported by a massive artillery bombardment. Byng was given all of the First Armies heavy artillery, giving the Canadian Corps close to 1,000 guns. The bombardment began on 20 March and lasted for 20 days. The pace of the bombardment varied during those twenty days, to prevent the Germans working out when the main attack was due. On 3 April the intensity of the bombardment was increased. The last week before the attack was known to the Germans as the “week of suffering”.
Finally, Byng made sure his men were well trained for the assault to come. A scale model of the battlefield was built, and as many men as possible visited it. Many more men than normal were given maps of the battlefield. Many earlier attacks had collapsed into chaos when the few men who know the plans or had maps were killed. Byng also staged rehearsals of the attack.
On 4.00 a.m. on Monday 9 April the subway entrances were opened. The first wave of the assault went in at 5.30. At the same time the heavy artillery hit 67 of the 69 German artillery positions in the Vimy sector.
Along most of the ridge most of the Germans were trapped in their bunkers. Too many men were in the forward trenches, with the result that half of the Germans on the ridge were killed or captured on the first day. Not every unit did so well – the 87th Battalion (Canadian Grenadier Guards) suffered 50% casualties early in the day in a sector where the German front lines had not been so badly damaged.
By the end of the first day, much of Vimy Ridge was in Canadian hands, but the chance, if there was any, for a breakthrough onto the plains to the east was slipping away. So was any chance that the Germans might recapture the ridge. At the end of the day Crown Prince Rupprecht decided to pull back to the III Stellung (the Oppy-Mericourt Line), four miles further east. Von Falkenhausen had wanted to make a stand on the II Stellung, but that was too close to the eastern foot of the ridge, and thus vulnerable to artillery fire directed from the ridge. On 10 April as the distant reserve finally reached the battlefield, it was put into the third line.
One battle still remained. At the end of 9 April the Germans still held a hill known as “the Pimple” at the northern end of the ridge. An assault was planned for 12 April. German resistance on the Pimple was more determined than it had been on the ridge, but by the end of the day the hill was in Canadian hands. On 13 April the Germans completed their withdrawal to their third line.
www.historyofwar.org/articles/battles_vimy_ridge.html
www.cefresearch.com/matrix/Nicholson/Transcription/Chapte...
Roots J
No match on Norlink
The 3 year old James, born Norwich, is recorded on the 1901 census at 57 Queen Anne Yard, in the Parish of St Michael Coslany. Presumably his mother has re-married as he is living with his “parents”, Benjamin Hunton, (aged 40, from Norwich, and working as what is described as a “Rough Stuff Cutter (Shoe)”), and Christiana B, (aged 27 and a Charwoman from Norwich). Their other children are:-
Samuel Hunton……………..aged 1.……………born Norwich
Alice Roots…………………aged 8.……………born Norwich
Benjamin……………………aged 6.……………born Norwich
However, if we go back to the 1891 census, a search for “Roots” and “Norwich”, brings up a 17 year old Christiana living at Magdalen House, The Methodist Chapel, Chapelfield Road, Norwich, where she is described as a servant - one of 7 young ladies in their late teens, early 20’s.
Initially there was no obvious match on the CWGC database out of 6 potential matches, however, with the likelihood that the first names is James, this narrows the choices to two, (a third is an Australian Navy man who can be eliminated via his on-line records which notes his mothers name as Alice Roots, and that he was born Hartley, England)
Name: ROOTS Initials: J
Rank: Private
Regiment: 9th (Queen's Royal) Lancers
Date of Death: 08/02/1916
Service No: 6803
Grave/Memorial Reference: II. B. 10. Cemetery: VERMELLES BRITISH CEMETERY
CWGC: www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=252419
Name: ROOTS, JAMES
Rank: Private
Regiment: Suffolk Regiment
Unit Text: 12th Bn.
Date of Death: 06/01/1918
Service No: 21904
Grave/Memorial Reference: Bay 4. Memorial: ARRAS MEMORIAL
CWGC: www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=1637653
Smith F W
Norlink has Smith, Private Frederick William, 4th Norfolk Regiment, transferred Army Service Corps
norlink.norfolk.gov.uk/02_Catalogue/02_013_PictureTitleIn...
Additional notes are:-
Private Smith was born in Norwich on 1st November 1897, and educated at the City of Norwich School. He worked as a clerk at the Norwich Union Fire Office. He enlisted on 3rd February 1915, and died of malaria fever at the 19th General Hosptial, Alexandria, on 21st October 1918
Name: SMITH, FREDRICK WILLIAM
Rank: Private
Regiment: Army Service Corps
Unit Text: Desert Mounted Corps
Age: 21
Date of Death: 21/10/1918
Service No: S/232834
Additional information: Only son of Mr. and Mrs. Smith, of 45, Pottergate St., Norwich. Grave/Memorial Reference: E. 41. Cemetery: ALEXANDRIA (HADRA) WAR MEMORIAL CEMETERY
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=477152
There is also a Norlink picture of another Private F Smith, but there is absolutely no additional information - not even a unit
norlink.norfolk.gov.uk/02_Catalogue/02_013_PictureTitleIn...
Note Norlink has Frederick, CWGC has Fredrick. The 1901 Census taker has Frederick, who is aged 3, born Norwich and recorded at 43 Pottergate Street, in the Parish of St Gregorys. This is the household of his parents, Robert, (aged 31, and a Boot Laster who was born in India), and Margaret, (aged 31 and a Boot Sewer who was born in Norwich). The Smiths also have a daughter, Margaret, aged 9.
Straight M S
The only M S Straight on the CWGC database is, (and no-one else with that surname)
Name: STRAIGHT Initials: M S
Rank: Second Lieutenant
Regiment: Essex Regiment
Unit Text: 12th Bn., attd. 1st Bn.
Date of Death: 24/12/1915
Grave/Memorial Reference: L. 18. Cemetery: LANCASHIRE LANDING CEMETERY
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=600437
No match on Norlink
The Great War Roll of Honour lists this officer as Marshall S. Straight.
There is only one Marshall Straight recorded on the Genes Re-united transcription of the 1901 Census for England and Wales, and this is an 11 year old, (born Springfield, Essex), who is recorded at Maltese Lodge, Chelmsford. This is the household of his parents, Arthur E, (aged 52 and a Hop Merchants Traveller from Chelmsford), and Sarah E, (aged 45 and from Chelmsford). Their other children are:-
Arthur………………aged 9.…………Born Springfield, Essex
Brenda………………aged 3.…………Born Chelmsford
Marion………………aged 7.…………Born Chelmsford
Robt (Robert?)………aged 5.…………Born Chelmsford
The Straights also have 4 Live-in servants.
On the 1911 census, Marshall Stuart Straight is recorded in Chelmsford.
The name Straight doesn’t come up in connection with either Norwich or Norfolk on either the 1901 census or the 1911 one.
At Helles, the 29th Division landed troops at 'S,' 'V,' 'W,' 'X' and 'Y' Beaches, five small coves at or near the southern end of the peninsula.
Under very severe fire, the 1st Lancashire Fusiliers landed on 'W' Beach and cut their way through wire entanglements and trenches to the edge of the cliff. They and the other battalions of the 88th Brigade established themselves on the hills of Tekke Burnu and Helles Burnu.
The beach became known as Lancashire Landing. The greater part of the cemetery (Rows A to J and part of Row L) was made between the landing in April 1915 and the evacuation of the peninsula in January 1916. Row I contains the graves of over 80 men of the 1st Lancashire Fusiliers who died in the first two days following the landing. The 97 graves in Row K and graves 31 to 83 in Row L were brought from islands of the Aegean after the Armistice.
www.cwgc.org/search/cemetery_details.aspx?cemetery=200010...
Given the history of the cemetery, it looks like Lt Straight died elsewhere and was subsequently re-interred in this place.
M S Straight was gazetted from the reserve to a regular battalion of the Essex Regiment and given a seniority date of 24th February 1915
www.london-gazette.co.uk/issues/29441/supplements/721
There is also reference to an R. M Straight, (possibly Marshall’s brother Robert?) being gazetted into the Essex Regiment as a Temporary 2nd Lt, with seniority from 15th August 1915.
www.london-gazette.co.uk/issues/29812/supplements/10640
The same R M Straight became a temporary Lieutenant wef 1st November 1916
www.london-gazette.co.uk/issues/29833/supplements/11392
However, the connection with Norwich remains elusive.
Walters T
19 potential matches but no glaringly obvious candidates on the CWGC database
No match on Norlink
No obvious match on the 1901 or 1911 census with a Norwich connection.
Copeman W
Name: COPEMAN, WILLIAM ROBERT WYATT PYE WOODS
Rank: Private
Regiment: Northumberland Fusiliers
Unit Text: 23rd (Tyneside Scottish) Bn.
Age: 25
Date of Death: 09/04/1918
Service No: 241784
Additional information: Son of Mrs. George Copeman, of 10a, Upper Goat Lane, St. Giles, Norwich, and the late George Copeman. One of 3 brothers who fell.
Grave/Memorial Reference: Panel 2. Memorial: PLOEGSTEERT MEMORIAL
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=1641993
No match on Norlink
The 7 Year old William, (born Norwich), is recorded on the 1901 census at Warners Yard, in the Parish of St Gregorys. This is the household of his parents, although only his mother Frances, (aged 46 and from North Walsham) is listed on the night of the census. Her other children are:-
Alice…………….aged 20.………born Norwich……………Boot Machinist
Kate……………..aged 18.………born Norwich……………Confectioner
Fredk……………aged 15.……….born Norwich……………Apprentice Electrical Wireman
Samuel…………..aged 12.………born Norwich
Lilian……………aged 9.…………born Norwich
Looking at the Census page, Warners Yard appears to be off Upper Goat Lane.
Going back to the 1891 census, the Copemans are living at a place just described as Yard, Upper Goat Lane. At that time, father George W.P, (aged 39 and a Shoemaker from Norwich), is present. His wife “Francis” is shown as being from Little Ormesby rather than North Walsham., and they have two older daughters living with them, Edith M, (then aged 18, Tailoress and from Norwich), and Florence A (then aged 15, Boot Fitter and from Norwich).
Going back to the 1881 census, the family are at Freemans Court, St Giles Street, in the Parish of St Giles. Additional children listed are Edith M, (then aged 8 and from Norwich), and George J, (aged 7 and from Norwich). This time Frances is from Great Ormesby !
Returning to the 1901 census, there is a George who is of the right age and working as a shoemaker, recorded as a lodger at High Street, Knaresborough, Yorkshire. Gong forward to the 1911 census, father George is now recorded in Hartlepool. While you shouldn’t read too much into census returns, this would look like either George is working as an itinerant \traveller or he and his wife are estranged.
I can find no record for a Frederick\Fredrick\Fred on CWGC, other than an individual from Dereham who has parents with different first names. There is a George from Rosebery Road, but again his parents first names are completely different.
There is only one S. Copeman
Name: COPEMAN Initials: S W P W
Rank: Private
Regiment/Service: South Nottinghamshire Hussars
Date of Death: 30/10/1918
Service No: 2041
Grave/Memorial Reference: D1. 704. Cemetery: LEEDS (HAREHILLS) CEMETERY
Source: www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=410538
During the First World War, the major hospitals in Leeds were the 2nd Northern General with 1,800 beds and the East Leeds War Hospital with 1,900. Leeds was also one of the principal hospital centres in Yorkshire during the Second World War. Leeds (Harehills) Cemetery contains burials of both wars, many of them in a war graves plot in Section G, the rest scattered.
www.cwgc.org/search/cemetery_details.aspx?cemetery=46218&...
There is a Samuel Sidney Copeman of the South Nottinghamshire Hussars listed on the Long Eaton Roll of Honour.
www.britishlegion.org.uk/branches/long-eaton/remembrance/...
A check of the census for 1901 and 1911, (Genes Re-united transcription), shows no obvious Copeman from Derbyshire or Nottinghamshire.
However, the 1911 census has a Samuel Sidney Wyatt Pye Woods Copeman, born Norwich circa 1889, (ie probably the Samuel recorded as living with Francis on the 1901 census), and now recorded in the District of Auckland. A high-level google search gives that as the area of Chester-Le-Street, County Durham.
Looking at father George’s record of being in the Yorkshire \ Hartlepool area, the probability is that Samuel followed his father to the north-east.
For now I’m at a loss as to who the third brother is.
Battle of Estaires. 9-11 Apr 1918, including the first defence of Givenchy.
The area they were situated in was known as the Bois Grenier Line and on 5th April the whole Tyneside Scottish Brigade (102 Bde), was in the front line.
On 10th April, due to the division on the left being attacked, the brigade decided to withdraw and 22 Bn withdrew by companies under fire.
The 22nd and 23rd Bn were placed in defensive positions in the Estaires - Lys line.
1914-1918.invisionzone.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=58222
Lanham J W.
Name: LANHAM, JOHN WILLIAM
Rank: Signalman
Service: Royal Navy
Unit Text: H.M.S. "Havelock"
Age: 22
Date of Death: 05/06/1918
Service No: J/24670 (Ch.).
Additional information: Son of John Lanham, of I, Baker's Yard, Cottergate St., Norwich. Grave/Memorial Reference: 33. 351. Cemetery: NORWICH CEMETERY, Norfolk
CWGC: www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=2803199
No match on Norlink
The 4 year old John, (born Norwich), is recorded on the 1901 Census at 25 Furness Square, in the parish of St Peter Parmantergate. This is the household of his parents, John, (aged 35 and what looks like some kind of Iron Worker, (original entry has been heavily over-written by the analyser), from Norwich), and Mary, (aged 31 and from Warley, Essex). The Lanham’s have another son, Leonard, aged 1 and born Norwich.
The baptism of a John William Lanham took place at St James, Pockthorpe, on the 25th November 1896, his date of birth being given as the 1st November 1896. His parents are John, a Labourer, and Mary Ann. The family reside at Light Horseman Yard in the parish.
Pembroke, RN Barracks/Base, Chatham
LANHAM, John W, Signalman, J 24670, illness
*****************Private Bertie Cushion********************************
Possibly
Name: CUSHION, BERTIE CECIL
Rank: Private
Regiment: Norfolk Regiment Unit Text: 1st/4th Bn.
Date of Death: 19/08/1915 Service No: 1591
Grave/Memorial Reference: Panel 42 to 44. Memorial: HELLES MEMORIAL
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=694843
Great War Roll of Honour has this man down simply as Bertie Cushion.
But could also be this individual
Name: CUSHION Initials: B E
Rank: Private
Regiment: Norfolk Regiment Unit Text: 1st Bn.
Date of Death: 25/06/1915 Service No: 7271
Grave/Memorial Reference: F. 29. Cemetery: DICKEBUSCH NEW MILITARY CEMETERY
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=441427
This individual is recorded as a Bertie E on the Great War Roll of Honour.
There are no other Bertie’s listed on that document.
There is a picture of a Bertie Cecil of the 4th Battalion on Norlink
norlink.norfolk.gov.uk/02_Catalogue/02_013_PictureTitleIn...
Additional notes read:-
Born at Norwich, 13th July 1894 and educated at Quay Side School, Private Cushion enlisted in July 1911. He was killed in action at the Dardanelles, 19th August 1915
From the diary of Captain Montgomerie, of the 1st/4th Battalion.
" 15th. - lt was decided that our first line should be relieved by the Essex brigade. I, from my ridge, was to give covering fire.
The 1st Battalion Essex advanced well and lost few men. The other battalions, who had delayed, suffered more severely. All we could do was to keep down the fire of the snipers by shooting into the trees. Rumour has it that some of these snipers were tied to trees, with water and food within reach. Women snipers have been caught within our lines with their faces, arms, legs, and rides painted green.
After dark our men began to come in. Some came in well, but there were cases where the confusion was great. The last to come in were a party of 100-150 with Captains Hughes and Fisher. These officers had behaved magnificently throughout this show and they finished by leading the men back in very good order."
On the 16th both the Norfolk battalions were moved to a point near Kiretch Tepe Sirt on the ridge running north-east from SuvIa Point, where the 31st brigade was.
16th - I was relieved on the ridge by the 4th Essex early in the morning. The battalion joined up in trenches some 300 yards in rear of the ridge. We were busy digging trenches all day, and trying to collect the men to their various companies. In the late advance we had been in reserve, and three companies and one platoon had reinforced the first line, so they had become very scattered.
" In the afternoon the 10th division advanced along the ridge and cleared the whole hill of the enemy. Unfortunately we were unable to hold on to the extreme east of it. It was a fine sight to watch from the valley below.
user.online.be/~snelders/sand.htm
***********Private Thomas S Crosskill*********************************
Name: CROSSKILL Initials: T S
Rank: Private
Regiment: Canadian Infantry (Central Ontario Regiment) Unit Text: 20th Bn.
Date of Death: 23/04/1918 Service No: 57162
Grave/Memorial Reference: II. B. 24. Cemetery: WAILLY ORCHARD CEMETERY
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=35879
No match on Norlink
Wailly is a village in the Department of the Pas-de-Calais about 6 kilometres south-west from Arras. The cemetery was begun in May 1916 by the Liverpool battalions of the 55th (West Lancashire) Division, as a front line cemetery, screened from German observation by a high wall. It was little used in 1917, but in March-August 1918, it was considerably enlarged by the Canadian and other units defending the Third Army front.
www.cwgc.org/search/cemetery_details.aspx?cemetery=3700&a...
The Canadian National Archive confirms this is a Thomas Stephen Crosskill, born 23rd June 1890. His attestation papers can be seen here
www.collectionscanada.gc.ca/databases/cef/001042-119.02-e...
And
www.collectionscanada.gc.ca/databases/cef/001042-119.02-e...
They tell us that he was born London, England, and is a Shoemaker by trade. His next of kin is his mother, Elizabeth, who resides at 8 St Augustines, Norwich.. He had previously done military service with the Royal Field Artillery. He enlisted in Toronto on the 8th January 1915. His medical notes tell us that he was 5 feet 6 ½ inches, with Brown hair, Brown eyes, and a dark complexion. His religious denomination is shown as Baptist.
The 11 year old Thomas “H” is recorded on the 1901 census at 10 Bull Row in the parish of St Pauls, having been born Peckham, London. This the household of his parents, Walter P. (aged 42 and a Tinsmith from Norwich), and Elizabeth, (aged 39 and from Norwich). Their other children are:-
Charles P…………..aged 9.…………born Camberwell, London
Daniel………………aged 4.…………born Norwich
Susanna……………aged 18.………..born Norwich
William…………….aged 2.…………born Norwich
While there were casualties, (three wounded, 2 Sergeant, one Private) on the 21/4, the war diary of the 20th Battalion gives no indication of any further casualties on either the 22nd or 23rd.
23rd April 1918. Neuville Vitasse
At 1.15 am the O.C “C” Coy on our left reported that he had been relived north of the
BEAURAINS - NEUVILLE VITASSE road by the 18th Cdn Bn. And that he is now all south of the road except for one L.G post north of the north edge. MAP111 shows this alteration in his disposition. The platton relieved was employed during the remainder of the night deepening and fire-stepping the trench in M..24.b During the night, “A” Coy in the right front line set out 200 yds of single apron wire in N.19.e.
Two patrols were out on each company front last, on the right both were battle patrols, on the left the first patrol was a small reconnoitring. This patrol located an enemy …..at M24.b.95.05
During the day the enemy was very quiet, very little hostile shelling. E.A flying low over our area at 2.50 pm was engaged. It is reported to have landed either in “no-mans land” or just in its own lines in front of the Bn on our left.
A work party totalling 1 Officer and 35 O.R.s reported to 2nd Cdn Pioneers at 9.30 pm and worked for three hours in the INTERMEDIATE line in M.23.b, M.24.a, and M.18,c.
At 10.45pm an enemy wiring party was reported at M.19.c.35.70.. This was reported to and engaged by the 4th T.M. Batty. guns at M..24.b.3.3.
At 11.35pm two six or eight inch dud shells from our own batteries fell just in front of our right support coy.trench. Shorts also occurred from the 18 pdrs. about 50 yards behind our front line at N.19.c
data2.collectionscanada.ca/e/e039/e000960728.jpg
data2.collectionscanada.ca/e/e039/e000960729.jpg
A small picture of the headstone can be seen here
twgpp.org/information.php?id=1280588
*****************Private Bertie C Crosskill******************************
No match on CWGC
No match on Norlink
The 3 year old Bertie, born Norwich, is recorded on the 1901 census at 3 Eagle Opening, Sussex Street, in the Parish of St Augustines. This is the household of his grandmother, the widow Maria Bone. Maria is employed as a “Fitter in Coal Trade”. Living with her is her widowed daughter, (and presumably Bertie’s mother), Maria, (aged 34 and a Machinist from Norwich)
The Great War Roll of Honour lists a Private Bertie “G” Crosskill, 27049 Wiltshire Regiment, who died 1918.
Due to a typo, the same individual turns up on the GWGC database as
Name: CROSKILL, BERTIE GEORGE
Rank: Private
Regiment: Wiltshire Regiment Unit Text: 2nd Bn.
Date of Death: 08/05/1918 Service No: 27049
Grave/Memorial Reference: Panel 119 to 120. Memorial: TYNE COT MEMORIAL
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=841915
The War diaries of the 2nd Wiltshires are available on line, however that for the 8th May 1918 provides no indication of why Private Crosskill not only died, but died in such a way that his body was never discovered and he had to therefore be commemorated on the Tyne Cot Memorial. Additionally, the German spring offensives had petered out by now, so its difficult to see his grave being lost as a result of subsequent fighting, leading to him being commemorated on the Memorial. I can only assume he was on attachment with another unit at the time.
8th May 1918 Le Paradis
Working party under Lieut S COLLIER rejoined from WATOU.
www.thewardrobe.org.uk/wardiary.php?action=date®im...
The entry for the previous day reads , “All quiet, nothing to report”
***************Private Edward H Dennis*********************************
Only E H Dennis in the CWGC database
Name: DENNIS, EDWARD HENRY
Rank: Serjeant
Regiment: West Yorkshire Regiment (Prince of Wales's Own) Unit Text: 2nd Bn.
Age: 26 Date of Death: 01/07/1916
Service No: 8975
Additional information: Son of Mr. and Mrs. Dennis, of 90, Magpie Rd., Norwich; husband of Maria Sarah Hunt (formerly Dennis), of Railway Cottage, Ledge Fenn, Lakenheath, Suffolk.
Grave/Memorial Reference: Pier and Face 2 A 2 C and 2 D. Memorial: THIEPVAL MEMORIAL
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=756620
Norlink has a picture of Sergeant Edward Henry Dennis of the 2nd Battalion, West Yorkshire Regiment. The only additional information is that Sergeant Henry was from Norwich.
norlink.norfolk.gov.uk/02_Catalogue/02_013_PictureTitleIn...
The 10 year old Edward, born Norwich, is recorded on the 1901 census at 67 Barn Road, in the Parish of St Benedicts. This was the household of his parents, James, (aged 37 and an Auctioneer’s Porter from Norwich), and Elvina, (aged 35 and a Boot Machinist from Norwich). Their other children are:-
Christiana……………….aged 8.………………born Norwich
James……………………aged 14.…………….born Norwich……Shoemaker
Roseanna………………..aged 6.………………born Norwich
(There is a baptism record for James William. This took place on the 30th January 1887 at St James with Pockthorpe. The data of birth is stated to be 15th June 1886. The parents are recorded as James and “Elaina”Adelaide. The family reside “OTP” (Outside the Parish). The father’s occupation is listed as Labourer.)
1st July 1916
The battalion was part of the second wave as far as I can ascertain, however in many places this suffered just as badly - the first wave having been wiped out, holed up or pinched out and surrounded, the German machine gunners could concentrate on the next wave, and the untouched German artillery caused devastation in the units forming up for the next assault - there were several units almost entirely eliminated from the battle before they even crossed the original British front line,
The battalion formed part of 23rd Brigade.
Ovillers
Here the 8th Division …was tasked with a direct assault on the village itself. In this area No Man's Land was 400 yards wide. Right from the start it was known that there would be no chance of success if the flanking Divisions did not make simultaneous progress with the 8th Division attackers.
The village of Ovillers sits on the southern side of a spur of land which points towards Albert. It was thus hoped that the 25th Brigade who would be attacking the village would have some cover up until the last few hundred metres as they came over the ridge.
To their right the 23rd Brigade would be very badly exposed as they made their way up Mash Valley. They would also be required to cross the widest section of no man's land on the Corps Front.
To the north of the ridge 70th Brigade were required to advance across another valley - called Nab Valley at the time but later designated as Blighty Valley. It was their task to push on past the village and up as far as Mouquet Farm.
Just before Zero at 07:30 hours the Division had put down a short barrage of Stokes Mortars onto the German positions giving the first wave of the assault an opportunity to get out into no man's land and closer to the German front line.
Leading the 23rd Brigade out into Mash Valley, the 2nd Bn Middlesex Regiment and 2nd Bn Devonshire Regiment managed to gain the German front lines and even a distance beyond, but they found themselves being fired at from three sides and their casualties soon grew to a thousand men between them - more than half their number. 70 survivors managed to hang on in the German front line for a while but soon their grenades and ammunition ran out and they were forced out of it by a counter-attack after 2 hours. .
Of about 300 officers and 8000 men, the Division lost 189 officers and 4719 men dead or wounded.
forum.irishmilitaryonline.com/showthread.php?t=9058
www.webmatters.net/france/ww1_ovillers.htm
According to the Devon's after action report, Lieutenant Colonel Sunderland could see very little of the action.
'At first and for some little time owing to mist and dust caused by our shell fire, it was difficult to realise what had happened … The lines appeared at first sight to be intact… Colonel Sunderland could make out rows of his men lying down. He demanded 'Why aren't they advancing?' The Adjutant, peering through his binoculars turned to the CO and replied 'They're all hit, sir!'.
The survivors bunched as they advanced through the few gaps in the enemy wire and the original wave formation soon ceased to exist, and the remains of companies became mixed together, making a mass of men, among which German fire played havoc'. The German eye witness wrote:
'All along the line, men could be seen throwing up their arms and collapsing, never to move again. Badly wounded rolled about in their agony, and others, less severely injured, crawled to the nearest shell hole for shelter. The extended lines, though badly shaken and with many gaps, now came on all the faster. Instead of a leisurely walk they covered the ground in short rushes at the double..'
The Devon's report recorded that 'only a very few reached the German lines alive. Some got into the German trenches, where they put up a determined fight against enormous odds and were soon killed'. The toehold that the Devons had gained could not be reinforced, as the curtain of fire that the German artillery put down in the middle of no-man's-land had halted the waves of C and D Companies. They were driven to ground by German machine gun fire. 2nd W Yorks, who moved forward behind the Devons at 0825 hours came under fire . By this time the attacking infantry had lost the barrage, which went on as planned. Consequently, only a few of C and D Companies along with A Company 2nd West Yorks reached the German line.
Despite acts of heroism, determination, by 0900 hours, the attack of the 8th Division had failed along the length of it's front. At 0930 hours, Major General Hudson instructed commanders of 23 and 25 Brigades to gather their men and repeat the attack, until it was pointed out that a repeated bombardment would hit the men thought to be stranded in the enemy position.
As late as 1430 hours, there were observers' reports that 'bomb fighting' was going on in the German lines. However, for those remaining out in no man's land it was fortunate that the shell holes, which had earlier hindered the movement of advancing men, now provided cover from enemy fire.
The Devon's Medical Officer, in his aid post dugout in the reserve line, after the initial rush of walking wounded, had few casualties to deal with, as:
'great difficulty was found evacuating the wounded to the Regimental Aid Post. The trenches were too narrow to allow a stretcher to pass and also the trenches had been so knocked about that in many places one was exposed to hostile machine gun and shell fire'
Wounded men succumbed to their wounds, who if properly treated, would have survived. Many lay in agony until, eventually the British barrage, was brought back to the enemy front line. Under its cover many men
regained their frontline and more returned under the cover of darkness.
www.keepmilitarymuseum.org/somme/reg_2nd_devons_1_jul.php?
Lt Col E T F Sandys, CO of the 2nd Middlesex (also of the 23 Bde 8 Div) had been concerned before the battle began about uncut German wire and the enemy trenches which were still occupied despite the heavy Allied barrage in the area of Mash Valley. His battalion had 750 yards of No Man’s Land to cross and they were cut down as he had predicted. The disaster so preyed on his mind that he shot himself in September and died a few days later.
(Extract from ‘When the Barrage lifts" by Gerald Glidden)
www.pricewebhome.co.uk/Docs/Stone/Death_of_Sergeant_HT_St...
A map of the British front line on the 1st July 1916 in this sector, and the German trenches facing them, can be seen here
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:La_Boisselle_sector_1_July_191...
The position of the lead units of the Brigade, (2nd Middlesex and 2nd Devons,) can also be seen here
1914-1918.invisionzone.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=64507
************Private Ernest Denham**************************************
Name: DENHAM, ERNEST
Rank: Private
Regiment: Norfolk Regiment Unit Text: 1st Bn.
Age: 39 Date of Death: 28/10/1917
Service No: 17234
Additional information: Son of the late Mr. and Mrs. W. Denham, of 65, Patteson Rd., Norwich; husband of Martha Sarah Ann Denham, of 14, Cross St., Sussex St., Norwich, Norfolk.
Grave/Memorial Reference: Panel 34 to 35 and 162A. Memorial: TYNE COT MEMORIAL
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=1629786
No match on Norlink
No baptism record on FreeReg
The 22 year old Ernest, (born Norwich and employed as a Furniture ??? - handwriting is illegible, but the census analyser has added “Carman“ so I‘m assuming the word should be deliverer) is recorded as a boarder at 65 Patteson Road along with his wife Martha, (aged 21 and a Silk Weaver from Norwich). This is down as the household of William J Denham, (aged 45 and a Tobacco Cutter from Norwich) and his wife, Isabella, (aged 44 and from Norwich). Given the information on the CWGC database, it seems odd that Ernest and his wife Martha are described as having no other relationship than being boarders.
On the 1891 Census, the 12 year old Ernest is recorded at 47 Albany Road in the Parish of St Clements. This is the household of his parents, William J and Isabella. They have other children living with them at this time:-
George A.G……………….aged 17.…………….born Norwich………Clicker
Emmeline S……………….aged 15.…………….born Norwich………Upholsterer
Frederick.W………………..aged 14.…………….born Norwich………Cabinet Maker
Going back to the 1881 census, the family can be found at 2 Britannia Terrace, in the Parish of St Clements, although then the mother’s name looks closer to Sarah then Isabella - the curse of census taker’s handwriting strikes again.
Although I’ve not been able to locate the was diary for the 1st Norfolk, the diaries for the 1st Bedfords are fully on line and can be an indication of what or where the 1st Norfolks were up to, as they were in the same brigade. For the period 25th to 28th October, the 1st Bedfords held a position called “Stirling Castle”, and would support an attack on Polderhoek Chateau on the 26th. They took about working with the 1st Cheshires, another Brigade Unit. Havng suffered 103 casualties during their three days in the front line, the 1st Bedfords were relieved by the 1st Devons - the inference being that the 1st Cheshires were relieved by the 1st Norfolks.
www.bedfordregiment.org.uk/1stbn/1stbtn1917diary.html
However, another source has the whole 5th Division being relieved by the 14th Division on this day.
forum.irishmilitaryonline.com/showthread.php?t=11535&...
*****************Private Albert Fox**************************************
Probably
Name: FOX, ALBERT
Rank: Private
Regiment: Norfolk Regiment Unit Text: "A" Coy., 1st/4th Bn.
Age: 19 Date of Death: 21/04/1917
Service No: 200949
Additional information: Son of Fred and Ellen Fox, of Norwich; husband of Mabel Longbone (formerly Fox), of 93, Aylsham Rd., Norwich.
Grave/Memorial Reference: A. 117. Cemetery: DEIR EL BELAH WAR CEMETERY
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=645596
Also 112 other possibles in the CWGC database
No match on Norlink
The 3 year old Albert, born Norwich, can be found on the 1901 census at 23 Newbegins Yard, St Marys Plain, in the Parish of St Marys Coslany.. This is the household of his parents, Fredk. G, (aged 34 and a Boot Finisher from Norwich) and Ellen J. (aged 32 and from Norwich). Their other children are:-
Arthur……………..aged 1.………….born Norwich
Ernest……………..aged 5.………….born Norwich
Rosana……………aged 7.……………born Norwich
There are three more children in the household, presumably Ellen’s from a previous marriage.
Ellen I Perriment……..aged 15.…….born Norwich………..Tailoress
Ethel Perriment………aged 11.…….born Norwich
Fredk Perriment………aged 9.……..born Norwich
On 28 February 1917, the cavalry of the Egyptian Expeditionary Force entered Khan Yunus, midway between the Egyptian border and Deir el Belah causing the Turks to withdraw to Gaza and Beersheba. The railway was pushed forward to Deir el Belah, which became the railhead in April 1917, and an aerodrome and camps were established there. The cemetery was begun towards the end of March and remained in use until March 1919. Most of the burials were made either from field ambulances from March to June 1917, or from the 53rd, 54th, 66th and 74th Casualty Clearing Stations, and the 69th General Hospital, from April 1917 until the Armistice with Turkey. A number of graves, the majority of which were originally at Khan Yunus, were brought into the cemetery after the Armistice.
www.cwgc.org/search/cemetery_details.aspx?cemetery=71200&...
On 19th April the Norfolks took part in a disastrous attempt to take Gaza. In this action casualties for the battalion were 478 (55 killed, 323 wounded and 100 missing). The battalion’s sister unit, 1/5th Norfolks, also took part in the assault and they fared even worse, suffering 643 casualties.
www.oldbuckenham-pri.norfolk.procms.co.uk/pages/viewpage....
While we cannot be sure Arthur died as a result of injuries in the action at Gaza it seems more than probable that this is the case.
****************Private Robert Fuller*************************************
Prime candidate
Name: FULLER Initials: R
Rank: Private
Regiment: Gloucestershire Regiment Unit Text: 12th Bn.
Age: 21 Date of Death: 20/04/1917
Service No: 22258
Additional information: Son of Samuel and Mary Ann Fuller, of 112, Aylsham Rd., Norwich.
Grave/Memorial Reference: I. A. 12. Cemetery: SUCRERIE CEMETERY, ABLAIN-ST. NAZAIRE
www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=561424
Great War Roll of Honour confirms this is a Robert
1901 Census likely match.
Robert, aged 4, born Norwich. Recorded at 5 Hindes Yard, St Augustines. Parents are
Samuel, (aged 41, Boot Finisher from Norwich), and Mary Ann, (aged 35 and from Norwich). Siblings are Arthur, (9), Charles, (u/1), Elizabeth, (8), Nellie, (3),
The Gloucester Regiment Museum confirms that Private 22258 Robert Fuller was born and enlisted Norwich. His previous unit was the “Hussars of Line”, where his service number was 19928. He is recorded as Killed in action.
www.glosters.org.uk/soldier/13107
From the Battalion War Dairy.
20th April. In trenches. Bois de Hirondelle
In front line. Heavy Enemy Shelling. 7 O.R Killed. 15 O.R wounded. 5 O.R joined as reinforcements.
**********************Private John J Fuller*****************************
5 possible matches on CWGC
No match on Norlink
1901 Census possibles.
John, aged 2, born Norwich. Recorded at 35 Magpie Road. Parents are Robert, (aged 34, Carman from Norwich) , and Ann, (aged 33, from Norwich). Siblings, Elizabeth, (13), Ernest, (0), Esther, (6), James, (10), Robert, (aged 3) and William, (8). All born Norwich.
On the 1911 census there is one John James with a Norwich connection, and it seems to be the one from Magpie Road.
By a process of elimination, this individual on the CWGC database is our most likely Match
Name: FULLER Initials: J J Nationality: United Kingdom Rank: Private Regiment/Service: Royal Fusiliers Unit Text: 4th Bn. Date of Death: 31/08/1918 Service No: 72688 Casualty Type: Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: I. B. 32. Cemetery: H.A.C. CEMETERY, ECOUST-ST. MEIN
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=303889
The Great War Roll of Honour confirms this is a John J
The 4th Fusiliers were part of the 3rd Division for the the whole. One of the divisional battle honours is
Second Battle of Bapaume. 31 Aug-3 Sep 1918.
On August 31st the 4th Battalion, who had moved up to
positions south-east of Ecoust, attacked eastwards. Ten
minutes before zero the assembly positions were subjected
to a heavy shell and machine-gun fire, and there were
many casualties ; and when our barrage began, five minutes
later, it missed the chief obstacles in the way of the Royal
Fusiliers' advance. As a consequence, while the battalions
on both flanks advanced with little trouble, the 4th Royal
Fusiliers were decisively checked by machine-gun fire from
the sunken road, about 250 yards to the east. Z Company
made several most gallant attempts to reach these guns,
but the men were mown down, and all the officers but one
became casualties. The tank which should have assisted
in coping with this obstacle caught fire a few minutes
before zero. Another tank broke down actually in the
road, and a German officer, climbing on top of it, shot or
took prisoner the whole of the crew. A machine-gun nest
in the south of Ecoust also devoted too much attention to
the battalion, who were completely held up.
About 8 p.m.
the 1st Northumberland Fusiliers cleared the sunken road
under a creeping barrage, and before dawn on September
1st the 4th Royal Fusiliers had advanced 1,500 yards. At
6 p.m. on the same day, with only eight casualties, the
battalion carried the line still further, clearing the sunken
road midway between Longatte and Noreuil. In this
operation 70 prisoners and several machine guns and trench
mortars were captured.
www.ebooksread.com/authors-eng/h-c-herbert-charles-oneill...
**************************Private A Fulcher*******************************
Possibly
Name: FULCHER Initials: A
Rank: Private
Regiment: Norfolk Regiment Unit Text: 2nd Bn.
Date of Death: 02/11/1915
Service No: 7638
Grave/Memorial Reference: B. 17. Cemetery: KUT WAR CEMETERY
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=637920
Great War Roll of Honour has this soldier listed as an Archie Fulcher
Less likely
Name: FULCHER Initials: A G H
Rank: Private
Regiment: Norfolk Regiment Unit Text: 2nd Bn.
Age: 22 Date of Death: 27/09/1918
Service No: 30383
Additional information: Son of Richanda Alice Beaumont Fulcher, of I, School Rd., Runham, Vauxhall, Gt. Yarmouth, and the late Henry Thurtell Fulcher.
Grave/Memorial Reference: I. N. 17. Cemetery: BASRA WAR CEMETERY
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=509914
Great War Roll of Honour has this soldier listed as an Alfred G H.
Or
Name: FULCHER, ARTHUR JOHN
Rank: Private
Regiment: Norfolk Regiment Unit Text: 1st/4th Bn.
Age: 37 Date of Death: 01/09/1915
Service No: 2243
Additional information: Son of Mrs. Elizabeth Fulcher, of Wymondham, Norfolk, husband of Laura Fulcher, of Damgate Bridge, Wymondham, Norfolk.
Grave/Memorial Reference: Panel 42 to 44. Memorial: HELLES MEMORIAL
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=681137
No match on Norlink
1901 Census matches using search criteria Fulcher and Norwich.
Arthur aged 2, born Norwich. Recorded at 9 Fishers Buildings, parish of St Phillips. Parents are John, (aged 36, Tailor from Rushmere, Suffolk) and Emily, (aged 36, from Norwich). Siblings are, Bertie, (8), Edith, (3), and Thomas, (4) - all born Norwich.
Arthur G, aged 7, born Wymondham. Recorded at 21 Egyptian Road, Bishops Bridge Road. Parents are George, (aged 35 - Railway Plate Layer, Wymondham) and Elizabeth, (aged 35, Norwich), Siblings are Ernest, (1), Margaret, (5), and Thomas (3) - all born Wymondham.
Albert aged 9, born Norwich. Recorded at 107 Dereham Road. Parents are Robert, (aged 42, Licensed Victualler from Norwich), and Hannah, (aged 41, from Norwich), Siblings are Adlaine, (14), Donald, (3), Leonard, (7), Lucy, (17) - all born Norwich.
The 1911 census has only one match for an Archie Fulcher for the whole of England and Wales. This individual is shown as being born circa 1891 at St Marys, Norwich, Norfolk. His current whereabouts are not however listed. As St Marys is the neighbouring parish to St Augustines, this tends to strengthen the case for this being our man.
Archie does not appear to be on either the 1901 or 1891 Census for England and Wales.
From India to Mesopotamia
To protect the British owned oil fields in Persia and to stop Turkish domination of the Middle East an Indian Expeditionary Force was sent to the Persian Gulf. As part of this Force the Norfolk Regiment left Belgaum for Bombay under the command of Lieu-Colonel E C Peebles and boarded HM Transport Elephanta on 6 November1914. The 2nd Norfolks arrived at Seniyeh in the Persian Gulf on 15 November 1914 and joined the 18th Brigade, which consisted of the 7th Rajput's, 110th Mahratta Light Infantry and 120th Rajputana Infantry.
The 2nd Norfolks took part in several battles during the advance, finally culminating in the Battle of Ctesiphon on the 22/11/1915, when British force of 11000 defeat a Turkish force of over 18000. Battle ends with a bayonet charge across open ground. Norfolks suffer 6 officers killed 27 men killed, 225 wounded and 2 missing.
However, with opposition mounting, on the 24th November 1915,the Brigade under the command of General Townshend suffering losses and sickness has to withdraw to Kut. The Norfolks form the rear guard as the Brigade withdraws. The 44 miles to Kut is covered in 36 hours. The 2nd Norfolks now comprise half their effective fighting
Kut- al-mara, having been taken in July had been the Allies strong-point and medical base, so its likely that Archie died either as a result of wounds sustained in July or as a result of illness.
www.stephen-stratford.co.uk/pte_wilby.htm
****************Private Herbert Gooch*********************************
Probably
Name: GOOCH, HERBERT FRANCIS
Rank: Lance Corporal
Regiment: King's Own (Royal Lancaster Regiment) Unit Text: 1st Bn.
Age: 29 Date of Death: 20/04/1918
Service No: 28285
Additional information: Son of Mr. and Mrs. Gooch; husband of Mrs. Gooch, of 38, Magpie Rd., Norwich. Native of Norwich.
Grave/Memorial Reference: XXIX. K. 4A. Cemetery: ETAPLES MILITARY CEMETERY
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=501487
During the First World War, the area around Etaples was the scene of immense concentrations of Commonwealth reinforcement camps and hospitals. It was remote from attack, except from aircraft, and accessible by railway from both the northern or the southern battlefields. In 1917, 100,000 troops were camped among the sand dunes and the hospitals, which included eleven general, one stationary, four Red Cross hospitals and a convalescent depot, could deal with 22,000 wounded or sick.
www.cwgc.org/search/cemetery_details.aspx?cemetery=56500&...
No match on Norlink
The 12 year old Herbert F, (born Norwich), is recorded on the 1901 census at 60 Beaconsfield Road, in the Parish of St James. This is the household of his parents, Thomas, (aged 44 and a “Restry Cook and Cow Feetner” - Genes Re-united transcriber, or “PastryCook and Confectioner” - Moominpappa, from Great Yarmouth), and Harriet F, (aged 41 and from Ludham). Their other children are:-
Annie M……………….aged 10.………….born Norwich
Arthur S……………….aged 17.…………..born Norwich………Railway Telegraphist
Audrey A………………aged 19.………….born Norwich
Charles Ed……………..aged 14.………….born Norwich………Railway Telegraph Messenger
Edward E………………aged 4.…………born Norwich
Ernest………………….aged u/1.………..born Norwich
Frederick J…………….aged 7.………….born Norwich
George Wm……………aged 5.…………born Norwich
The International Genealogical Index has further details. Herbert Francis was born the 25th July 1888 in the parish of St Peter Parmentergate. He would marry Alice Maud Armes, on the 10th November 1917 in the Parish Church of St Augustines.. His place of death is recorded as the 4th General Hospital, Carniers.
www.familysearch.org/Eng/Search/IGI/individual_record.asp...
Alice was born 1897 and would finally die in 1994, having been 75 years a widow.
His parents were Thomas Wade Gooch and Harriet Frances Storey.
www.familysearch.org/Eng/Search/IGI/individual_record.asp...
The 4th Division, of which the 1st Kings Own formed part were heavily engaged in March and April 1918 in fighting off the the German Spring offensive including
First Battle of Arras. 28 Mar 1918.
Battle of Hazebrouck. 12-15 Apr, including the defence of the Hinges Ridge and the Nieppe Forest.
Battle of Bethune. 18 Apr 1918, including the second defence of Givenchy.
L\Corporal Gooch could have succumbed to wounds received in any of these actions.
*******************Private Ralph V Gant********************************
Only R V Gant on the CWGC database
Name: GANT, RALPH VICTOR
Rank: Private
Regiment: Essex Regiment Unit Text: 10th Bn.
Date of Death: 21/03/1918
Service No: 34675
Grave/Memorial Reference: Panel 51 and 52. Memorial: POZIERES MEMORIAL
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=1581248
No match on Norlink
A family web-site adds that he was the husband of a Glady Gant
www.gant-name.org.uk/lestweforget.html
The 7 year old Ralph, (born Norwich), is recorded on the 1901 census at 30 Old Palace Road, Norwich, in the parish of St Bartholomew. This is the household of his parents, Benjamin, (aged 42 and a house builder from Reedham), and Emma, (aged 50 and from Norwich). Their other children are:-
Alice………………aged 17.……………born Norwich…….Dressmaker
Benjamin………….aged 13.……………born Norwich
Ethel………………aged 20.……………born Norwich…….Tailoress
Frederick………….aged 19.……………born Norwich…….Carpenter
The Gants also have a boarder living with them, Caroline Thompson, aged 20 and from Strumpshaw who works as a dressmaker.
Given that information and checking the family web-site we can also identify that brother Frederick fell in the Great War.
Name: GANT Initials: F T
Rank: Rifleman
Regiment: King's Royal Rifle Corps Unit Text: 11th Bn.
Age: 35 Date of Death: 25/09/1917
Service No: R/15481
Additional information: Son of Emma and the late Benjamin Gant, of 67, West End St., Norwich, Norfolk.
Grave/Memorial Reference: VI. B. 11A. Cemetery: WIMEREUX COMMUNAL CEMETERY
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=508460
21st March 1918
From the diary of the 8th Battalion East Surrey Regiment, who were in the same division.
21st March 1918. St Quentin, Soissons, Amiens.
The enemy artillery had been gradually increasing in intensity all night, and at 4.30 am reached a maximum, and the battalion was ordered to stand to. The shelling was all east of the CROZAT CANAL and no shells fell near the camp.
At 12.30 pm the commanding officer received a verbal order from the Divisional Headquarters to take the Battalion at once to a position of assembly on the Western outskirts of REMIGY and to proceed himself to the H.qtrs of the 10th ESSEX REGT at LY FONTAINE, where he would received further orders from the G.O.C 53rd Inf. Bde. This order was carried out at once, Companies being in the assembly area by 1.30pm.
The C.O reported to the Hqts 10th Essex Regt but found no orders for him there until about 2pm when Col.Minette DSO MC DGMO turned up with orders from the Division to hold LY FONTAINE - GIBECOURT SWITCH LINE, on the west of LY FONTAINE.
As parties of the enemy could now be seen close to the switch line on the east of LY FONTAINE, the Commanding Officer decided to send “D” Company to make good that section of the line, and for “A” and “C” companies to hold the LY FONTAINE - GIBECOURT SWITCH with “B” Co in Battalion reserve, ½ mile North of REMIGY. These dispositions were taken up and about 3.30 pm a message was received from Brig.Gen Higginson, DSO commanding 53rd Bde that enemy cavalry were working round our left rear from the direction of MONTESCOURT.
Two platoons of “B” Co were therefore ordered to take up a line facing N.W to guard against surprise from that quarter. Battalion H.qrs were established in the North end of REMIGY.
At 9.30pm an order was received from the 53rd Bde to the effect that the battalion would take up a line N and E of REMIGY to cover the retirement of units of the 53rd Bde at 10.30 pm, and that when this operation had been completed, the battalion would withdraw in rearguard formation to the West of CROZAT CANAL and rendezvous at FRIERES - FAILLOUEL, this withdrawal to commence at midnight.
qrrarchive.websds.net/PDF/ES00819180304.pdf
Update 08/01/2020 see the comments box below for more on Ralph
*******************Private Arthur Grady*********************************
Possibly
Name: GRADY Initials: A
Rank: Private
Regiment: Norfolk Regiment Unit Text: 1st Bn.
Date of Death: 27/11/1914 Service No: 6248
Grave/Memorial Reference: A. 10. Cemetery: BAILLEUL COMMUNAL CEMETERY (NORD)
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=197599
The Great War Roll of Honour confirms this is an Arthur Grady, and in fact he would appear to be the only one. The same source has an Arthur B, a Corporal in the East Surrey Regiment who died in 1916, but underneath is added ALIAS Cumbers. However, on the CWGC database, there is no match under Grady, but there is an Arthur Bertie Cumbers listed.
www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=757942
No match on Norlink
The 17 year old Arthur, (born Norwich), is recorded at Vine Cottage, Yarmouth Road, Thorpe - next - Norwich. He is employed as a Labourer. He is shown as the son of the householder Henry Murrell, (aged 60 and a Coach-builder from Caston, Norfolk), and Susanna, (aged 62 and from East Dereham), however, presumably Henry is his step-father. By the time of the 1911 census, Arthur is recorded at Bakewell,
Bailleul was occupied on 14 October 1914 by the 19th Brigade and the 4th Division. It became an important railhead, air depot and hospital centre, with the 2nd, 3rd, 8th, 11th, 53rd, 1st Canadian and 1st Australian Casualty Clearing Stations quartered in it for considerable periods.
www.cwgc.org/search/cemetery_details.aspx?cemetery=200004...
18/11/14 Took over trenches at KEMMEL from the French.
27/11/14 Relieved by ROYAL FUSILIERS and moved to billets at DRANOUTRE.
1914-1918.invisionzone.com/forums/lofiversion/index.php/t...
********************Private Fred H Hall*********************************
5 potential matches on the CWGC, none with an obvious link.
No match on Norlink
No obvious Fred H, Frederick H or Fredrick H Hall with a Norwich connection on the 1911 census.
Possibles from the 1901census
Fredrick aged 9, born Norwich, recorded at Hammonds Yards in the Parish of St Augustine. Father Arthur, (aged 41, Stone Marble Mason born Norwich) and Harriet, (aged 43, born Norwich). Also Edgar, (12), Frank (3), Gertrude (5), Jessie (7).
Frederick aged 3, born Norwich, recorded at 16 Waterloo Road in the parish of Christ Church. Father George, (aged 38, Boot Riveter, born Norwich) and Rosa (aged 36, born Norwich). Also Arthur, (u/1), Ernest, (9), Ethel, (6), George, (12).
Frederick aged 8, born Norwich, recorded at 63 Albany Road in the parish of Christ Church. Father Robert, (aged 42, Boot Finisher born Norwich) and Mary (aged 39 born Norwich). Also Arthur (12), Charles (1), Elizabeth (21), Flora (17), Hannah (14), Herbert (4), Robert (16), Walter (10).
Great War Roll of Honour
Fred H. Private11589N&D R1914
Looks like that this is a Frederick Henry who came from Chesterfield
www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=878878
Frederick H Private 475135 RAMC1918
www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=288602
Still no obvious match for this man.
**************Private Sidney Howard*********************************
Number of potentials but no obvious match on CWGC
No match on Norlink
Possibles on the 1901 census
Sidney, aged 5, born Norwich, recorded at 76 Calvert Street in the parish of St George of Colegate. Father John (aged 41 Brushmaker from Norwich) and Eliza (aged 40 and from Norwich). Also Alice (18) and Eliza (13).
Sidney, aged 10, born Norwich, recorded at 2,Popes Building, Calvert Street on the parish of St George Colegate. Father is David, (aged 48, Coach Makers Packer from Norwich) , there is no mother shown although there is a 43 year old unmarried female visitor staying with the family on the night of the census, Christiana Lowe, a dressmaker from Norwich. Making up the rest of the family is Ernest (13) and a boarder George Lowe, (18 an a Boot maker).
Possibly
Name: HOWARD Initials: S
Rank: Private
Regiment: Norfolk Regiment Unit Text: 7th Bn.
Date of Death: 05/12/1917 Service No: 27344
Grave/Memorial Reference: II. C. 56. Cemetery: HONNECHY BRITISH CEMETERY
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=572295
The Great War Roll of Honour confirms this is a Sidney
Honnechy was part of the battlefield of Le Cateau in August 1914, and from that time it remained in German hands until the 9th October 1918, when the 25th Division and the 6th Cavalry Brigade captured it. It had been a German Hospital centre, and from its capture until the end of October it was a British Field Ambulance centre. The village was inhabited by civilians during the whole of the War. The cemetery stands on the site of a German Cemetery begun in the Battle of Cambrai 1917 and used by German troops and then by British until the 24th October 1918. The 300 German graves were removed to another burial ground, leaving 44 British graves; and the cemetery was re-made in 1922 and 1923 by the concentration of British graves almost entirely from German Cemeteries,
www.cwgc.org/search/cemetery_details.aspx?cemetery=63203&...
Giving the date and the way in which the cemetery was used, Private Howard was a prisoner, possibly captured and wounded in an action that had taken place a few days earlier.
Battalion War Diary
Trenches 30th About 7 am a very heavy Hun barrage commenced, and at 7.40 am he attacked in Mass, in enormous numbers from GONNELIEU, which he had just previously taken about 7.35am and also from BANTEAUX. The Bosche attacked the Battalion from the right flank and the front. Our Lewis gunds did splendid work, mowing down the enemy in large numbers, but by weight of numbers he forced the Battalion to fall back on to Battalion Headquarters in BLEAK TRENCH and a strong point on our left front. The Hun succeeded in surrounding many of our men, who were thereby forced to surrender. We made a splendid fight and accounted for enormous numbers of the enemy. About 10.00am Sec.Lieut G Maddison was the only officer left, and he, along with the remaining men of the Battalion, attached himself to the 9th Fusiliers Regt.
Our casualties were as follow
Killed
Captain + acting (M) A M Charlton M C
Sec.Lieut. H E A Payne
Wounded
Capt F R G Haward
Lieut M L Chaland M C
Sec Lieut A M Brown
H Kontili
E C Page
J I Stubbs
C E Pratley
A Anable
Wounded and missing
Lt Col H L F A Gielgud MC
Capt K R Potter M C
Lieut W G Collins
Sec Lieut W H Parish
G D Summers
Missing
Sec Lieut A S Goddard
Sec Lieut W J Kemp was admitted to hospital suffering from shell shock.Our casualties among the rank and file were:-
Killed 27
Wounded89
Missing204
Wounded and Missing 13
There is a note at the end of the page
During the Hun Counter-attack, the War Diary for November was unfortunately lost* and the months diary has had to be compiled from the only information available, which was very little indeed.
* for “lost” read “destroyed when the enemy attacked on Nov.30th”
***************Private Edward Halfacre*********************************
There is also a full panel dedication.
“Sacred to the memory of
Rfm Edward C Halfacre
8th London P.O. Rifles
One of our Sunday School Teachers
Who passed away
21st May 1919”
Edward does not appear to be commemorated on the CWGC database and I can only assume he had already been discharged from the Army when he succumbed to his wounds.
But note there is
Name: HALFACRE, JAMES
Rank: Private
Service: Army Service Corps Unit Text: Labour Coy.
Age: 51 Date of Death: 03/02/1916
Service No: SS/18150
Additional information: Husband of Emily Halfacre, of 20, Bull Close Rd., Norwich. Grave/Memorial Reference: C. VII. 5. Cemetery: PIETA MILITARY CEMETERY
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=115295
No match on Norlink.
The 5 year Edward C, (born Norwich), is recorded on the 1901 census at Kerrisons Yard, Tombland, in the Parish of St Georges Tombland. This is the household of his parents, Edward,(aged 44 and a Coachman from Wokingham, Berkshire) and Elizabeth M A, (aged 42 and a Brushmaker from Norwich),
The baptism of Edward Charly took place at St George’s Tombland on the 5th May 1895, with Theodore Parks officiating. His date of birth is listed as the 2nd April 1896, (but must surely be 1895). His parents Edward and Elizabeth May Alice were in attendance, with his fathers occupation listed as coachman. The family reside at Kerrisons Yard.
Looks like James and Edward are probably cousins, as James father was also from Wokingham in Berkshire,
**************Private William A Hudson********************************
Name: HUDSON, WILLIAM ALFRED
Rank: Private
Regiment: King's Own Scottish Borderers Unit Text: 2nd Bn.
Age: 19 Date of Death: 13/09/1914
Service No: 11521
Additional information: Son of William John and Maria Hudson, of 2, Anchor Yard, St. George's, Norwich.
Memorial: LA FERTE-SOUS-JOUARRE MEMORIAL
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=879162
No match on Norlink
The 6 year old William A, born Norwich, is recorded on the 1901 census at 5 Reads Court, in the Parish of St Marks, Lakenham. This is the household of his parents, William I. (aged 32 and a Bricklayers Labourer from Norwich), and Maria (aged 27 and from Norwich). Making up the household is a daughter, Ivy A. aged 2 and born Norwich.
The War diaries of the 1st Battn East Surrey Regiment, who were in the same Division although different brigade, are available on line.
They talk of how they and a battalion of Manchesters, (presumably the 2nd Battalion from the 14th Brigade), with the assistance of Royal Engineers, constructed rafts to cross the Aisne on the 13th, and there met up with units from the 4th Division and together advanced up the spurs towards the heights. In the entry for the 14th there is a mention of forming up with two (unnamed) battalions of the 13th Brigade who had crossed the Aisne further up by bridge.
qrrarchive.websds.net/PDF/ES00119140907.pdf
**************Private George W Howell********************************
Name: HOWELL, GEORGE WILLIAM
Rank: Private
Regiment: Canadian Infantry (Central Ontario Regiment) Unit Text: 4th Bn.
Age: 22 Date of Death: 23/04/1915
Service No: 11244
Additional information: Son of Arthur and Charlotte Howell, of 52, Esdelle St., Norwich, England.
Grave/Memorial Reference: Panel 18 - 24 - 26 - 30. Memorial: YPRES (MENIN GATE) MEMORIAL
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=1593158
No match on Norlink
George Williams enlistment papers can be seen here
www.collectionscanada.gc.ca/databases/cef/001042-119.02-e...
www.collectionscanada.gc.ca/databases/cef/001042-119.02-e...
He was born 22/03/1893 and gives his birthplace as Norwich, England. It looks like his occupation is plowman, although given the handwriting it could equally be plummer. He was 5 feet 4 inches with blue eyes and brown hair.
His next of kin was his mother , Charlotte Howell, then of 63 Esdelle Street. He had previously served in the 36th Regiment of Militia. He enlisted on the 22nd September 1914.
George W is on the 1901 census for England and Wales. Aged 8 and born Norwich, he is recorded at 63 Esdelle Street, in the parish of St Augustines. This is the household of his parents, Arthur, (aged 31, and a Stone Mason from Norwich), and Charlotte, (aged 36 and from Wellingham (?), Norfolk). Their other children are:-
Arthur……………………..aged 9.……………..born Norwich
Lottie M…………………..aged 6.……………..born Norwich
Mabel K…………………..aged 1.……………..born Norwich
Reginald J…………………aged 3.…………….born Norwich
Extract from the War Diary.
23rd April VLAMERTINGHE
12.30 am the Battalion moved off, crossed No.4 Pontoon bridge of the YSER canal at 4.10 a.m.
4.30 am Battalion halted at a farmhouse 1200 yards west of PICKLEN were the enemy were entrenched. We commenced to advance towards ridge at 5.25 am, B COY leading and occupying a portion of 150 yards frontage. The other Coys followed. Artillery and Machine Gun fire of the enemy very heavy. Entrenched at 400 yards from enemy. Lieut-Col Birchall took command of C Coy when Coy Commander was wounded.
7 pm Lieut-Col Birchall killed.
9pm Battalion came out of action relieved by East Yorks. Adjutant killed, 2nd in command wounded, 16 other casualties amongst Officers, other ranks 487. The Battalion congregated at Transport Lines B.29.B and remained there during the night. Major Ballantine in Command.
data2.collectionscanada.ca/e/e044/e001077583.jpg
data2.collectionscanada.ca/e/e044/e001077584.jpg
*******************Private John Hardy**********************************
Possibly
Name: HARDY, JOHN
Rank: Private
Regiment: Norfolk Regiment Unit Text: 2nd/4th Bn.
Age: 45 Date of Death: 21/02/1916
Service No: 2166
Additional information: Husband of Mary Helen Hardy, of 39, St. George's St., Norwich. Grave/Memorial Reference: DD. 95. Cemetery: AYLESBURY CEMETERY
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=343756
No match on Norlink
The 29 year old John, (born Norwich and employed as a Shoe Maker), is recorded on the 1901 census as the Head of household at 6 Angel Yard in the Parish of St Martin at Oak. His wife, Mary, is aged 24 and from Norwich. Their children then are:-
Alice………………aged 1.…………..born Norwich
John……………….aged 5.…………..born Norwich
Rosa……………….aged 2.…………..born Norwich
On the 1891 census the 19 year old John is recorded in Colchester Barracks, as a private soldier in the 2nd Norfolk Regiment. On the 1881 census the 9 year old John is recorded at 7 Reeves Yard in the Parish of St Marys Coslany. This is the household of his parents Robert and Maria and is one of seven children.
2/4th Battalion
Formed in Norwich in September 1914 as a Second Line Battalion. Disbanded in UK in June 1918.
www.1914-1918.net/norfolks.htm
**************Private Ernest C Jolly*************************************
4 potential matches on CWGC, no obvious candidates
No match on Norlink
There is a baptism record for an Ernest Jolly which took place on the 22nd March 1899 at St Peter Parmentergate. Ernest was born 30th December 1881. His father is listed as William, a Brush Maker. The family reside at Kings Street. No mothers name is recorded.
There are no obvious Ernest C’s on the 1911 Census for England and Wales and there are no Ernest C’s on the Great War Roll of Honour, which leads me to wonder if this is actually Ernest G.
Name: JOLLY, ERNEST GEORGE
Rank: Private
Regiment: King's Own Scottish Borderers Unit Text: 1st/5th Bn.
Date of Death: 19/04/1917 Service No: 201807
Grave/Memorial Reference: Panels 23 and 24. Memorial: JERUSALEM MEMORIAL
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=1645813
However, while there are two potential matches for an Ernest Jolly on the 1901 census with a Norwich connection, one is ruled out by a different initial, while the other is recorded at 5 Globe Place in the Parish of St Bartholomew. He is aged 5, born Norwich, and is the step-son of the head of the household, Charles, (aged 45 and a House Painter, shown as a British Subject born India). His wife, Ernest’s mother is Rosetta, (aged 35 and born Norwich). As well as Ernest, she has brought another son Percy, (aged 9), with her. .Meanwhile the Harper’s have a daughter of their own, Alice L. aged 1.
The individual baptised at St Peter Parmentergate in 1899 does not appear on the 1891, 1901 or 1911 censuses.
*******************Private Arthur Lane***********************************
Too many possible, no obvious candidates
No match on Norlink
No obvious match on the 1901 or 1911 census for England and Wales.
************Private Edward H Loombe**********************************
No matches at all for the surname Loombe on the CWGC database
No match on Norlink
The 1911 census has an Albert Edward, born Norwich\Kent(?) circa 1893 and still recorded in Norwich,
The 7 year Albert, (born Norwich) is recorded on the 1901 census at 24 Silver Street in the Parish of St James, Pockthorpe. This is the household of his parents, Robert W (aged 46, and a Labourer in an Electrical Works from Norwich) and Caroline, (aged 45 and from Norwich). Their other children are:-
Alice N……………aged 17.………..born Norwich……………Woollen Jacket Member
Bessie L……………aged 15.……….born Norwich…………….Yarn Packer
Ethel M……………aged 10.……….born Norwich
Leah M…………….aged 19.……….born Norwch…………….Crepe Worker
Robert M…………..aged 12.………born Norwich
However, there is an Albert Edward Loombe recorded as the Landlord of the Magpie Public House, Magpie Road, from 1934 to 1940.
www.norfolkpubs.co.uk/norwich/mnorwich/nchmagp.htm
I then started looking at other sources for similar sounding surnames.
The Great War Roll of Honour lists a Private Edward Loome, 43262 Norfolk Regiment who died in 1916.
This leads us to this gentleman
Name: LOOME, EDWARD HENRY
Rank: Private
Regiment: Norfolk Regiment Unit Text: 1st Bn.
Age: 35 Date of Death: 04/09/1916
Service No: 43262
Additional information: Son of Edward Mark and Harriett Loome; husband of Susanah Ruth Loome, of 10, 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=801343
The battalion attack was on Falfemont Farm. The attack was held up and casualties were being caused by bombing and small arms fire before they eventually took the objective only to come under friendly artillery fire that caused serious casualties. According to the Regimental casualty book 56 all ranks were killed, 219 wounded and 94 missing, believed killed, a total of 369. The battalion was relieved the next day.
1914-1918.invisionzone.com/forums/lofiversion/index.php/t...
(Private Cannell who is also commemorated on this Roll of Honour died in the same action)
The 1901 census has the 19 year old Edward H, born Norwich, single and employed as a journeyman baker, recorded at 12 Esdelle Street in the parish of St Augustines. This is the household of his parents, Edward M, (aged 46 and a Brewery Cooper from London), and Harriet, (aged 46 and from Barton Mills, Suffolk). Their other children are:
Ethel M……………aged 14.………………born Norwich……………..Tailoress
Frederick G………..aged 7.………………..born Norwich
Maud L……………aged 12.……………….born Norwich
Sydney F…………..aged 16.………………bprn Norwich……………Journeyman Baker
Although I do not have detailed access to the 1911 census, there is a Ruth Susannah, born Circa 1882, Ryland South (?) Great Yarmouth.who lives in the same Norwich household as an Edward Henry who is aged 29 and was born Norwich..
By a process of trial and error !, we can also establish that living in the same household is Lily Ethel Maud Loome, (born circa 1906, St Augustines, Norwich), May Ruth Loome, (born circa 1908 St Augustines, Norwich), and Rosa Harriett Loome, (born circa 1910, St Augustines, Norwich).
The balance of evidence so far is that the name carved on the St Augustines Roll of Honour was incorrect, and one wonders if it caused concern and distress at the time.
**************Private Albert J Lundy*************************************
Only one A J Lundy on the CWGC database
Name: LUNDY, ALBERT JAMES
Rank: Private
Regiment: Northumberland Fusiliers Unit Text: 1st Bn.
Date of Death: 19/09/1914
Service No: 1263
Memorial: LA FERTE-SOUS-JOUARRE MEMORIAL
CWGC <a href="http://www.cwgc
With Acknowledgment to the Roll of Honour website (RoH)
www.roll-of-honour.com/Norfolk/Holt.html
There is another set of memorials in the church of St Andrew the Apostle.
www.roll-of-honour.com/Norfolk/HoltStAndrew.html
Names shown on the Church memorial are marked as (CM)
The Great War
Herbert Gilbert Pointer……………………………….....(RoH) (CM)
Lance Corporal 23916. 7th Battalion Suffolk Regiment. Died in France & Flanders on 28th February 1917. Aged 20. Born Hempstead, Norfolk. Enlisted Sudbury, Suffolk. Son of James and Alice Pointer, of 4, Grove Rd., Holt, Norfolk. Buried: Avesnes-Le-Comte Communal Cemetery Extension, Pas de Calais, France. Ref. I. C. 2.
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=75528
No match on Norlink
The 4 year old Herbert, (born Hempstead) is recorded on the 1901 Census at White House Road, Hempstead. This is the household of his parents, James, (aged 43 and a Farm Manager from Hempstead), and Alice, (aged 43 and from Letheringsett). Their other children are:-
Charles…..aged 17.…born Hempstead. Ordinary Agricultural Labourer.
Fredrick…aged 8.……born Hempstead
Maud…….aged 10.….born Hempstead
Wallace….aged 6.…born Hempstead
The divisional diary records nothing specific on this day.
1914-1918.invisionzone.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=487...
Sidney Preston……………………………….................(RoH) (CM)
Roll of Honour web-site has no further details
10 Potential matches on CWGC
The most obvious match on the 1901 Census is a 12 year Sydney, (born Holt), recorded at the Market Place, Holt. This is the household of his parents at Thomas J. (aged 50 and a Music Teacher from Holt), and Sarah A, (aged 51 and from Thursford). Their other children are:-
Arthur J………………….aged 19.…..born Holt. Printer
Chamberlain……………..aged 8.……born Holt
Mary E…………………aged 14.…….born Holt
Reginald…………………aged 11.…..born Holt
Given that information we can see that the most likely match on CWGC is
www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=266248
Name: PRESTON, SIDNEY
Rank: Lieutenant Regiment/Service: Essex Regiment Unit Text: 1st Bn.
Age: 29 Date of Death: 10/04/1918
Additional information: Son of Thomas John and Sarah Ann Preston.
Grave/Memorial Reference: XIII. D. 3. Cemetery: BIENVILLERS MILITARY CEMETERY
The second phase of the German Spring Offensive, Operation Georgette, opened on the 9th April. Otherwise known as the the Battle of the Lys, casualties for both sides were high.
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spring_Offensive
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_the_Lys
This forum thread picks up the action a few days later
1914-1918.invisionzone.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=52206
Edward Bertie Riches……………………………….......(RoH) (CM)
Gunner 116130. 252nd Siege Battery, Royal Garrison Artillery. Died of wounds in France & Flanders on 5th August 1917. Aged 30. Born Saham Toney. Lived Holt. Enlisted Cromer. Son of Mr. and Mrs. R. Riches, of 2, Carlton Terrace, Cromer Rd., Holt, Norfolk. Buried: Godewaersvelde British Cemetery, Nord, France. Ref. I. C. 20.
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=24125
No match on Norlink
The 1901 Census has the 16 year Edward B. (Born Saham Toney) living at Watton Road, Saham Toney, and working as a Printers Apprentice. This was the household of his parents, Robert, (aged 45 and a Shop Keeper\Iron Monger \ Pork Butcher from Watton), and Mary H, (aged 41 and from Great Massinham). Their other children are:
Andrew W………aged under 1.….born Saham Toney
Grace H…………aged 13.……….born Saham Toney
Lucy M………….aged 6.…………born Tilbury, Essex
Robert F…………aged 18.……….born Saham Toney. Grocers Assistant.
Horace Rudd………………………………...........................(RoH) (CM)
Private 3/10496. 8th Battalion Norfolk Regiment. Killed in action in France & Flanders on 19th July 1916. Born Briston, Norfolk. Enlisted Norwich. No known grave. Commemorated on Thiepval Memorial, Somme, France. Pier and Face 1 C and 1 D
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=810457
No match on Norlink
The 19 year old Horace, (born Briston), is recorded on the 1901 Census at Norwich Road, Holt. This is the household of his widower father, Jesse Rudd, (aged 45 and a Horseman on Farm from ???? Norfolk (I would guess Little Snoring but don‘t hold me to it. On the 1891 Census it could be Thurning\Thorning). His other children are:-
Edith……………aged 5.……………born Holt
Edward…………aged 10.…………..born Briston
Herbert…………aged 13.…………..born Briningham. Stock Reader on Farm
Also in the household is a 35 year old housekeeper - Alice Doughty, from Holt.On the 1891 Census Horace’s mother Rose was still alive, and there were eight children in total listed.
Wednesday 19th July 1916. Day 19
Delville Wood
Fighting continued in Delville Wood all day. 53 Bde (18th Div) had been sent to reinforce 9th Div. 8th Norfolks attacked from south west of Longueval at 7am and occupied the southern part of Delville Wood. The 10th Essex, 6th Royal Berkshire Regt and 8th Suffolks were sent to the attack with little success.
forum.irishmilitaryonline.com/showthread.php?t=9058
Harry William Laxen Sharpin……………………………..(RoH) (CM)
(Sharpen on CD). Private 12826. 7th Battalion Norfolk Regiment. Killed in action in France & Flanders on 9th July 1915. Aged 24. Born Sheringham. Enlisted Norwich. Son of James and Elizabeth Mary Sharpin, of The Orchard, Brinton, Melton Constable, Norfolk. Buried: Rifle House Cemetery, Comines-Warneton, Hainaut, Belgium. II. D. 3.
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=448308
No match on Norlink
The 9 year old Harry W L. (born Sheringham), is recorded on the 1901 Census at Paradise Row, Cromer Road, Holt. This is the household of his parents, James, (aged 37 and a Railway Labourer from Brinton, (Briston?), Norfolk), and Elizabeth M, (aged 34 and from Sheringham). They also have living with them James nephew, William B Dennis, (aged 18 and a House Painters Assistant from Sheringham).
Commanded by Lieutenant Colonel Caroll, 30 Officers and 954 other ranks embarked aboard the Invicta at Folkestone bound for Boulogne on 30th May 1915. The first Kitchener Battalion raised by the Norfolk Regiment, 7 Battalion was formed at Shorncliffe. Uniforms, equipment and blankets were slow in arriving and they initially wore emergency blue uniforms and carried dummy weapons. 1,114 men from the battalion were killed during the First World War. After arrival in France they took over trenches 113-120 at Ploegsteert Wood on 4th July 1915.
Source: 1914-1918.invisionzone.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=42270
William Smith………………………………........................(RoH) (CM)
Lance Corporal 28196. 11th Battalion Essex Regiment. Killed in action in France & Flanders on 21st March 1918. Aged 32. Born Glanford. Lived Holt. Enlisted Cromer. Husband of A. L. Smith, of Hempstead Rd., Holt, Norfolk. No known grave. Commemorated on Vaulx Hill Cemetery, Pas de Calais, France. Special Memorial B. 5.
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=614711
No match on Norlink
The 1901 Census has the 15 year old William, (Born Glandford), lodging at Carpenters Arms Yard, Norwich Road, Holt and employed as an Under coachman.On the 1891 Census he was living with his Grand Parents at Blakeney Road, Holt.
Reports from deserters that we were to be heavily attacked were persistent, and the Division stood to arms twice before 21st March. On 20th March aeroplane photos disclosed ammunition pits for seventy extra batteries opposite the divisional front, and when at 5 a.m. on 21st March the bombardment commenced, there was no doubt but that a real offensive had begun. Warning had been given overnight for all troops to be in battle positions by 5 a.m., but it came too late to stop working parties, and the reserve battalions of all brigades had marched ten miles before the battle commenced.
Fog favoured the Germans in that it prevented us seeing when the attack was launched, but every credit must be given them for the skill they evinced and the dash with which they pushed forward and brought up successive waves of attackers.
For five hours the bombardment continued with tremendous force, first with gas and H.E. on back areas to cut communications and disorganize reinforcements, later about 7 to 8 a.m. with smoke and H.E. on the forward system. The intensity of it may be gauged by the fact that four out of five concealed anti-tank guns were knocked out by direct hits.
This bombardment annihilated the garrisons of the forward system, and few survivors came back to the reserve line.
Coming up a subsidiary valley the enemy nearly drove a wedge between 71st and 18th Infantry Brigades, but the 2nd D.L.I. counter-attacked gallantly and kept them out till dusk. On the right of the 18th Infantry Brigade, however, the enemy advanced up the Morchies Valley, capturing the left trenches of the 51st Division on our right at about 10 a.m.
The 2nd West Yorks, reinforced by two companies 11th Essex, gallantly led by Lt.-Col. Boyall, D.S.O., who was subsequently wounded and captured, drove back three attacks issuing from our support line. The 18th Infantry Brigade held on till 7 p.m. when, in trying to withdraw, it suffered heavy casualties. The last company was not overwhelmed till 8.30 p.m. The 18th and 71st Infantry Brigades, therefore, maintained their hold on the ground Lagnicourt and the Morchies Valley all day, though the enemy had penetrated far in rear on both flanks.
The casualties in the infantry were extremely heavy, amounting in the two days to some 3,900 out of a total for the Division of somewhat over 5,000 engaged, and out of a total trench strength of less than 5,000 infantry. The 18th Infantry Brigade suffered particularly heavily, being only able to muster in its three battalions 8 officers and 110 other ranks of those who had been through the fight, including 32 at Battalion Headquarters.
(11th Essex were in this Brigade).
www.gutenberg.org/files/20115/20115-h/20115-h.htm#page044
Vivian Norman Smith………………………………............(RoH) (CM)
Captain. 6th Battalion Wiltshire Regiment. Killed in action on 13th November 1916. Buried: Aveluy Communal Cemetery Extension, Somme, France. Ref. M. 46.
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=186577
No match on Norlink
The 1901 Census lists 30 Vivian Smiths resident in England and Wales and of an age that made it possible that they served in WW1. However, none have an obvious Norfolk connection.
6th Battalion were part of 19th (Western) Division. The division was in action today, near Thiepval, on the opening day The Battle of the Ancre, the final battle of the Somme Campaign. However, the Wiltshires appear to have been in reserve and I can’t find any reference to them being engaged in action.
forum.irishmilitaryonline.com/showthread.php?t=9058&p...
James Starling……………………………….....................(RoH) (CM)
Possibly: James Henry Starling. Private 41328. 13th Battalion Essex Regiment. Formerly 5150 Norfolk Regiment. Killed in action in France & Flanders on 28th April 1917. Aged 24. Son of Ellen Starling, of Great Witchingham, Lenwade, Norwich, and the late John Henry Starling. No known grave. Commemorated on Arras Memorial, Pas de Calais, France. Bay 7.
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=1670982
No match on Norlink.
(But note James appears to have a brother who also died - why isn’t he on the Holt War Memorial?
Name: STARLING Initials: J Nationality: United Kingdom Rank: Private Regiment/Service: Norfolk Regiment Unit Text: 1st Bn. Age: 21 Date of Death: 04/09/1916 Service No: 8971 Awards: M M Additional information: Son of John and Ellen Starling, of Great Witchingham, Norwich. Casualty Type: Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: XXIV. M. 3. Cemetery: DELVILLE WOOD CEMETERY, LONGUEVAL
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=550349 )
There is a 42 year old postman James Starling, born Holt resident Holt on the 1901 Census, but its difficult to see him on active service in his 50’s.
The Starlings from Great Witchingham have no obvious connection with Holt. Incidentally, the brother was a John.
Of the Starlings listed on the 1901 Census, we do have a Henry J born Weybourne and living with his grandparents at Norwich Road, Holt, but there is no apparent match on the CWGC database.
Charles Henry Steer………………………………................(RoH) (CM)
Drummer 7734. 2nd Battalion Scots Guards. Killed in action in France & Flanders on 26th October 1914. Aged 18. Born Croydon, Surrey. Lived Holt. Enlisted Norwich. Son of R. S. M. Sidney George Steer and Gertrude Eleanor Steer, of 71, Coulsdon Rd., Caterham, Surrey. No known grave. Commemorated on Kruiseecke German Cemetery Memorial 19 in Zantvoorde British Cemetery, Zonnebeke, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium.
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=160576
No match on Norlink
No obvious match on the 1901 Census for England and Wales - however, seeing as how his father was a Regimental Sergeant Major, he could have been overseas at that time.
One of the Stained Glass Windows in St Andrews, Holt is dedicated to the memory of Charles and Oliver Bennett, (qv), former members of the church choir.
Late in October 1914, the 2nd Scots Guards moved to France from the UK, and upon disembarking, were moved straight away with the rest of the 7th Division to Ypres. Their arrival could not have been better timed, thwarting the final German attempts of 1914 to break through to Ostend and the North Sea. They were in action at Hollebeke on the 21st, being rushed in to plug a sudden hole in the line. After that the unit was in constant action, helping inadvertently to form the Ypres salient that would claim so many lives over the next four years.
Updated see comment 1 below
Albert (Ernest) Wakefield………………………………......(RoH) (CM)
Private 23081. 7th Battalion, Border Regiment. Died of wounds 18th February 1916 near Poperinge. Aged 40. Born 1876 in Heydon, Norfolk. Grew up in Holt. Son of James and Sarah Wakefield. Husband of Louisa Mary Wakefield, nee Grapes, of 16 Waddington Street, Norwich. Buried Lijssenthoek Military Cemetery, Belgium. Plot IV. Row D. Grave 10A.
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=150118
No match on Norlink
The 1901 Census has the 25 year old Albert E, (born Heydon, Norfolk), living at 159 Aylsham Road, Norwich and employed as a Brickmaker. He was the head of household. Living with him was his wife Louisa, (aged 22 and a Tailoress from Horsford) and their 1 year old son Charles A.. On the 1891 census he was living at No.3 Holt Road, St Faiths, Sprowston.Already a Brickmaker, he lived at this address with his father James. (aged 54 and a Brickmaker from Hindolveston), and mother, Sarah Ann, (aged 55?, and from Holt)
Frank Firmage Waller………………………………..........(RoH) (CM)
Private 35675. 1/5th Battalion Lancashire Fusiliers. (CWGC gives 15th Battalion Lancs). Died of wounds in France & Flanders on 28th March 1918. Aged 34. Born Holt. Lived Norwich. Enlisted Ludlow, Shropshire. Son of Benjamin and Rachel Waller of Marlingford, Norwich. Buried: Doullens Communal Cemetery Extension No.1, Somme, France. Ref. V. D. 3.
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=83612
No match on Norlink
The 18 year old Frank F, (born Holt), is recorded on the 1901 Census at New Street, Holt. He was employed as a House Painter/ This was the household of his parents, John B, (aged 50 and a Journeyman Gardener from Holt), and Rachel C, (aged 47 and from Holt).Their other children are:-
Alice K……..aged 15.…..born Holt
George M…..aged 20.…..born Holt.Ironmongers Assistant
Olive M…….aged 11.….born Holt
The 1st/5th Lancs were involved in the First Battle of Arras (1918), on this day.
www.cwgc.org/spring1918/content.asp?menuid=34&submenu...
Albert John Waller………………………………......................(RoH) (CM)
Private G/21108. 1st Battalion Queen’s Own (Royal West Kent Regiment). Formerly 9278 Royal West Surrey Regiment. Killed in action in France & Flanders on 4th October 1917. Born Holt. Lived Melton Constable. Enlisted Norwich. No known grave. Commemorated on Tyne Cot Memorial, Zonnebeke, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium. Panel 106 to 108.
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=825793
No match on Norlink
The 4 year old Albert, (born Holt), is recorded on the 1901 Census at Peacock Lane, Cromer Road, Holt. This was the household of his mother, Emily, (aged 42, from Wood Norton and described as single). Her other children are:-
Adeline………aged 9.……..born Norwich
Bertie………aged 8.……….born Holt
Herbert……..aged 20.……born Wood Norton.Carpenter
Hilda………..aged 6.……..born Holt
Samuel………aged 1.…….born Holt
Thursday 4th October 1917 - Day 60
Rainfall 4.6mm
Today marks the start of the Battle of Broodseinde.
Zero Hour was set for 6 am.
Polygon Wood
5th Div
13 Bde
In 13 Bde, 2nd Bn, King’s Own Scottish Borderers attacked on the left and 1st Royal West Kents on the right. The West Kents came under fire from Lewis Farm on their right in 37th Div area. The West Kents’ right flank had to go to ground and form a flank. Theleft flank kept on with the attack in touch with the KOSB. By 12.30pm they reported their objective taken. The KOSB meanwhile advanced on Polderhoek Chateau, supported by a tank and flanked on their left by the Reutelbeek and on the right by Scherriabeek. They covered 700 yards befor being halted at the edge of the Chateau grounds where they consolidated.
forum.irishmilitaryonline.com/showthread.php?t=11535&...
Geoffrey Walter Watson………………………………..............(RoH) (CM)
Private 41063. B Company 1st Battalion Norfolk Regiment. Died of wounds in France & Flanders on 4th August 1918. aged 20. Born Holt. Enlisted Bangor, Wales. Son of William and Adela Edith Watson, of Holt, Norfolk. Buried: Aire Communal Cemetery, Pas de Calais, France. Ref. III. J. 24.
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=467536
No match on Norlink
The most likely match on the 1901 Census is a 2 year old Geoffrey, (born Aslacton), who is recorded at Near the Church, Forncett St Peter. This is the household of his parents, William, (aged 31 and a Gardener from Shotesham), and Adela Edith, (aged 31 and from Swardeston). Their other children are:-
Charles….aged 5.….born Swardeston
Robert White………………………………...........................(RoH) (CM)
Private 30200. (CD gives 30260). 2nd Battalion Norfolk Regiment. Died in Mesopotamia on 14th July 1918. Aged 39. Born Holt. Enlisted Norwich. Son of Mrs. Martha White. Buried: Baghdad (North Gate) War Cemetery, Iraq. Ref. XX. D. 16.
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=635771
No match on Norlink
The 1901 Census has a 20 year old Robert, (born Holt), working as a Bricklayers Labourer and living at Cromer Road, Holt. This was the household of his mother, Martha, (aged 61, from Glandford, and listed as single). Also resident is her other son, Albert, (aged 32 and also a Bricklayers Labourer).
William Betts……………………………….....................................(RoH) (CM)
Private 16399. 3rd Battalion Norfolk Regiment. Died on 20th February 1916. Aged 27. Son of William and Triana Betts, of Fir Cottage, Briston, Melton Constable. Buried: Holt Burial Ground, Norfolk. Ref. C. 542.
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=2802696
No match on Norlink
The most likely match on the 1901 is a 12 year old William, born Gissing, and now living at 30 Hill Street, Norwich. This is the household of his parents, Edward William, (a 38 year old Cab Man from Norwich), and Alice Caroline (aged 39 from probably Burston, Norfolk). Their other children are:-
Edith May…………aged 8.…born Gissing
Harry………………aged 6.…born Gisleham, Suffolk
Katherine Alice……aged 5.…born Norwich
Mildred Constance..aged 11...born Gissing
Sidney……………..aged 9.…born Gissing
The 3rd Battalion were a UK based Training Battalion providing drafts to the other Battalions of the Regiment.
World War 2
Cyril Taberham……………………………….............(RoH) (CM)
Probably: Cyril James Taberham. Private 5779859. 5th Battalion Royal Norfolk Regiment. Died on 22nd January 1942. Aged 21. Son of Fred William and Anna Maria Taberham, of Hempstead, Norfolk. Buried: Kranji War Cemetery, Singapore. Ref. Coll. grave 34. E. 1-8.
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=2821706
Margaret Iris Thompson…………………………….(RoH) (CM)
Wren 10781. H.M.S. Minos, Women's Royal Naval Service. Died on 13th January 1942. Daughter of George Ritchie Thompson and Isabella Mary Thompson of Holt. Buried: Holt Burial Ground, Norfolk. Ref. Grave D. 828. Special note: HMS Minos was a port naval establishment based in Lowestoft and was responsible for Harbour Defence, small escort and other craft. On the 13th January 1942, three Dorniers dropped 4 250-kg bombs on Lowestoft which caused 70 deaths and enormous devastation. Although there is no evidence at the moment that Wren Thompson died in this attack, it would seem quite likely.
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=2763926
(Shown on CWGC as Mary Margaret Iris)
John Henry Vann………………………………......(RoH) (CM)
Gunner 943466. 135 (The Hertfordshire Yeomanry) Field Regiment, Royal Artillery. Died on 12th November 1942. Aged 23. Son of Alonzo and Ann Jane Vann; husband of Dorothy Joyce Vann, of Holt, Norfolk. Buried: Kranji War Cemetery, Singapore. Ref. 13. C. 2.
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=2821874
Patrick Watthes………………………………......(RoH) (CM)
Roll of Honour web-site has no further details
On the CWGC there is no casualties listed for the surname Watthes. Howere there is a Patrick Wathes
Name: WATHES, PATRICK JOHN LAVENDER Initials: P J L Nationality: Indian Rank: Captain Regiment/Service: 4th Bombay Grenadiers Date of Death: 05/11/1944 Service No: 3450 Casualty Type: Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: Column 2. Cemetery: CAMBRIDGE CREMATORIUM
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=2651737
Patrick is also on the Cambridge Crematorium
www.roll-of-honour.com/Cambridgeshire/CambridgeCrematoriu...
Intriguingly - all reference to the the 4th Bombay Grenadiers during WW2 has them serving in the Far East, so I can only assume Captain Wathes had been invalided home.
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/4th_Bombay_Grenadiers
Leonard Williamson……………………………….(RoH) (CM)
Possibly: Leonard George Williamson. Private 5835303. 2nd Battalion Cambridgeshire Regiment. Died on 12th September 1944. Aged 38. Son of Albert and Ellen Williamson; husband of Elizabeth R. Williamson, of Reepham, Norfolk. No known grave. Commemorated on Singapore Memorial. Column 62.
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=2538547
(3 other Leonards but with links to other parts of the country)
Kenneth Lamb Winn……………………………..(RoH) (CM)
Lance Corporal 7902179. attd. H.Q. Squadron., 33rd Armoured Brigade, Royal Armoured Corps. Died on 1st August 1944. Aged 25. Son of Charles Edward and Mary Landles Winn, of Holt, Norfolk; husband of Daphne Winn. Buried: Hermanville War Cemetery, Calvados, France. Ref. 2. D. 9.
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=2337673
Sidney Edward Woodhouse………………………(RoH) (CM)
Corporal 1230094. 521 Squadron: Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve. Died on 3rd September 1943. Aged 39. Son of Herbert Benjamin and Deborah Elizabeth Woodhouse; husband of Marion Marie Woodhouse, of Holt. Buried: Holt Burial Ground, Norfolk. Ref. Grave A. 232.
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=2763927
No. 521 Squadron of the Royal Air Force was a Second World War meteorological observation unit operating from Norfolk.
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/No._521_Squadron_RAF
Bert E Woodrow………………………………........(RoH) (CM)
Roll of Honour web-site has no further details
Possibly Edward Bert RAF (No personal details) www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=1532046
Or George Albert 2nd Beds & Herts Regiment
Son of Arthur George and Rose Alice Woodrow; husband of G. M. Woodrow, of Hunstanton, Norfolk.
********************************Private Bertie Cushion********************************
Possibly
Name: CUSHION, BERTIE CECIL
Rank: Private
Regiment: Norfolk Regiment Unit Text: 1st/4th Bn.
Date of Death: 19/08/1915 Service No: 1591
Grave/Memorial Reference: Panel 42 to 44. Memorial: HELLES MEMORIAL
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=694843
Great War Roll of Honour has this man down simply as Bertie Cushion.
But could also be this individual
Name: CUSHION Initials: B E
Rank: Private
Regiment: Norfolk Regiment Unit Text: 1st Bn.
Date of Death: 25/06/1915 Service No: 7271
Grave/Memorial Reference: F. 29. Cemetery: DICKEBUSCH NEW MILITARY CEMETERY
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=441427
This individual is recorded as a Bertie E on the Great War Roll of Honour.
There are no other Bertie’s listed on that document.
There is a picture of a Bertie Cecil of the 4th Battalion on Norlink
norlink.norfolk.gov.uk/02_Catalogue/02_013_PictureTitleIn...
Additional notes read:-
Born at Norwich, 13th July 1894 and educated at Quay Side School, Private Cushion enlisted in July 1911. He was killed in action at the Dardanelles, 19th August 1915
From the diary of Captain Montgomerie, of the 1st/4th Battalion.
" 15th. - lt was decided that our first line should be relieved by the Essex brigade. I, from my ridge, was to give covering fire.
The 1st Battalion Essex advanced well and lost few men. The other battalions, who had delayed, suffered more severely. All we could do was to keep down the fire of the snipers by shooting into the trees. Rumour has it that some of these snipers were tied to trees, with water and food within reach. Women snipers have been caught within our lines with their faces, arms, legs, and rides painted green.
After dark our men began to come in. Some came in well, but there were cases where the confusion was great. The last to come in were a party of 100-150 with Captains Hughes and Fisher. These officers had behaved magnificently throughout this show and they finished by leading the men back in very good order."
On the 16th both the Norfolk battalions were moved to a point near Kiretch Tepe Sirt on the ridge running north-east from SuvIa Point, where the 31st brigade was.
16th - I was relieved on the ridge by the 4th Essex early in the morning. The battalion joined up in trenches some 300 yards in rear of the ridge. We were busy digging trenches all day, and trying to collect the men to their various companies. In the late advance we had been in reserve, and three companies and one platoon had reinforced the first line, so they had become very scattered.
" In the afternoon the 10th division advanced along the ridge and cleared the whole hill of the enemy. Unfortunately we were unable to hold on to the extreme east of it. It was a fine sight to watch from the valley below.
user.online.be/~snelders/sand.htm
****************************Private Thomas S Crosskill*********************************
Name: CROSSKILL Initials: T S
Rank: Private
Regiment: Canadian Infantry (Central Ontario Regiment) Unit Text: 20th Bn.
Date of Death: 23/04/1918 Service No: 57162
Grave/Memorial Reference: II. B. 24. Cemetery: WAILLY ORCHARD CEMETERY
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=35879
No match on Norlink
Wailly is a village in the Department of the Pas-de-Calais about 6 kilometres south-west from Arras. The cemetery was begun in May 1916 by the Liverpool battalions of the 55th (West Lancashire) Division, as a front line cemetery, screened from German observation by a high wall. It was little used in 1917, but in March-August 1918, it was considerably enlarged by the Canadian and other units defending the Third Army front.
www.cwgc.org/search/cemetery_details.aspx?cemetery=3700&a...
The Canadian National Archive confirms this is a Thomas Stephen Crosskill, born 23rd June 1890. His attestation papers can be seen here
www.collectionscanada.gc.ca/databases/cef/001042-119.02-e...
And
www.collectionscanada.gc.ca/databases/cef/001042-119.02-e...
They tell us that he was born London, England, and is a Shoemaker by trade. His next of kin is his mother, Elizabeth, who resides at 8 St Augustines, Norwich.. He had previously done military service with the Royal Field Artillery. He enlisted in Toronto on the 8th January 1915. His medical notes tell us that he was 5 feet 6 ½ inches, with Brown hair, Brown eyes, and a dark complexion. His religious denomination is shown as Baptist.
The 11 year old Thomas “H” is recorded on the 1901 census at 10 Bull Row in the parish of St Pauls, having been born Peckham, London. This the household of his parents, Walter P. (aged 42 and a Tinsmith from Norwich), and Elizabeth, (aged 39 and from Norwich). Their other children are:-
Charles P…………..aged 9.…………born Camberwell, London
Daniel………………aged 4.…………born Norwich
Susanna……………aged 18.………..born Norwich
William…………….aged 2.…………born Norwich
While there were casualties, (three wounded, 2 Sergeant, one Private) on the 21/4, the war diary of the 20th Battalion gives no indication of any further casualties on either the 22nd or 23rd.
23rd April 1918. Neuville Vitasse
At 1.15 am the O.C “C” Coy on our left reported that he had been relived north of the
BEAURAINS - NEUVILLE VITASSE road by the 18th Cdn Bn. And that he is now all south of the road except for one L.G post north of the north edge. MAP111 shows this alteration in his disposition. The platton relieved was employed during the remainder of the night deepening and fire-stepping the trench in M..24.b During the night, “A” Coy in the right front line set out 200 yds of single apron wire in N.19.e.
Two patrols were out on each company front last, on the right both were battle patrols, on the left the first patrol was a small reconnoitring. This patrol located an enemy …..at M24.b.95.05
During the day the enemy was very quiet, very little hostile shelling. E.A flying low over our area at 2.50 pm was engaged. It is reported to have landed either in “no-mans land” or just in its own lines in front of the Bn on our left.
A work party totalling 1 Officer and 35 O.R.s reported to 2nd Cdn Pioneers at 9.30 pm and worked for three hours in the INTERMEDIATE line in M.23.b, M.24.a, and M.18,c.
At 10.45pm an enemy wiring party was reported at M.19.c.35.70.. This was reported to and engaged by the 4th T.M. Batty. guns at M..24.b.3.3.
At 11.35pm two six or eight inch dud shells from our own batteries fell just in front of our right support coy.trench. Shorts also occurred from the 18 pdrs. about 50 yards behind our front line at N.19.c
data2.collectionscanada.ca/e/e039/e000960728.jpg
data2.collectionscanada.ca/e/e039/e000960729.jpg
A small picture of the headstone can be seen here
twgpp.org/information.php?id=1280588
*********************************Private Bertie C Crosskill******************************
No match on CWGC
No match on Norlink
The 3 year old Bertie, born Norwich, is recorded on the 1901 census at 3 Eagle Opening, Sussex Street, in the Parish of St Augustines. This is the household of his grandmother, the widow Maria Bone. Maria is employed as a “Fitter in Coal Trade”. Living with her is her widowed daughter, (and presumably Bertie’s mother), Maria, (aged 34 and a Machinist from Norwich)
The Great War Roll of Honour lists a Private Bertie “G” Crosskill, 27049 Wiltshire Regiment, who died 1918.
Due to a typo, the same individual turns up on the GWGC database as
Name: CROSKILL, BERTIE GEORGE
Rank: Private
Regiment: Wiltshire Regiment Unit Text: 2nd Bn.
Date of Death: 08/05/1918 Service No: 27049
Grave/Memorial Reference: Panel 119 to 120. Memorial: TYNE COT MEMORIAL
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=841915
The War diaries of the 2nd Wiltshires are available on line, however that for the 8th May 1918 provides no indication of why Private Crosskill not only died, but died in such a way that his body was never discovered and he had to therefore be commemorated on the Tyne Cot Memorial. Additionally, the German spring offensives had petered out by now, so its difficult to see his grave being lost as a result of subsequent fighting, leading to him being commemorated on the Memorial. I can only assume he was on attachment with another unit at the time.
8th May 1918 Le Paradis
Working party under Lieut S COLLIER rejoined from WATOU.
www.thewardrobe.org.uk/wardiary.php?action=date®im...
The entry for the previous day reads , “All quiet, nothing to report”
***************************Private Edward H Dennis*********************************
Only E H Dennis in the CWGC database
Name: DENNIS, EDWARD HENRY
Rank: Serjeant
Regiment: West Yorkshire Regiment (Prince of Wales's Own) Unit Text: 2nd Bn.
Age: 26 Date of Death: 01/07/1916
Service No: 8975
Additional information: Son of Mr. and Mrs. Dennis, of 90, Magpie Rd., Norwich; husband of Maria Sarah Hunt (formerly Dennis), of Railway Cottage, Ledge Fenn, Lakenheath, Suffolk.
Grave/Memorial Reference: Pier and Face 2 A 2 C and 2 D. Memorial: THIEPVAL MEMORIAL
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=756620
Norlink has a picture of Sergeant Edward Henry Dennis of the 2nd Battalion, West Yorkshire Regiment. The only additional information is that Sergeant Henry was from Norwich.
norlink.norfolk.gov.uk/02_Catalogue/02_013_PictureTitleIn...
The 10 year old Edward, born Norwich, is recorded on the 1901 census at 67 Barn Road, in the Parish of St Benedicts. This was the household of his parents, James, (aged 37 and an Auctioneer’s Porter from Norwich), and Elvina, (aged 35 and a Boot Machinist from Norwich). Their other children are:-
Christiana……………….aged 8.………………born Norwich
James……………………aged 14.…………….born Norwich……Shoemaker
Roseanna………………..aged 6.………………born Norwich
(There is a baptism record for James William. This took place on the 30th January 1887 at St James with Pockthorpe. The data of birth is stated to be 15th June 1886. The parents are recorded as James and “Elaina”Adelaide. The family reside “OTP” (Outside the Parish). The father’s occupation is listed as Labourer.)
1st July 1916
The battalion was part of the second wave as far as I can ascertain, however in many places this suffered just as badly - the first wave having been wiped out, holed up or pinched out and surrounded, the German machine gunners could concentrate on the next wave, and the untouched German artillery caused devastation in the units forming up for the next assault - there were several units almost entirely eliminated from the battle before they even crossed the original British front line,
The battalion formed part of 23rd Brigade.
Ovillers
Here the 8th Division …was tasked with a direct assault on the village itself. In this area No Man's Land was 400 yards wide. Right from the start it was known that there would be no chance of success if the flanking Divisions did not make simultaneous progress with the 8th Division attackers.
The village of Ovillers sits on the southern side of a spur of land which points towards Albert. It was thus hoped that the 25th Brigade who would be attacking the village would have some cover up until the last few hundred metres as they came over the ridge.
To their right the 23rd Brigade would be very badly exposed as they made their way up Mash Valley. They would also be required to cross the widest section of no man's land on the Corps Front.
To the north of the ridge 70th Brigade were required to advance across another valley - called Nab Valley at the time but later designated as Blighty Valley. It was their task to push on past the village and up as far as Mouquet Farm.
Just before Zero at 07:30 hours the Division had put down a short barrage of Stokes Mortars onto the German positions giving the first wave of the assault an opportunity to get out into no man's land and closer to the German front line.
Leading the 23rd Brigade out into Mash Valley, the 2nd Bn Middlesex Regiment and 2nd Bn Devonshire Regiment managed to gain the German front lines and even a distance beyond, but they found themselves being fired at from three sides and their casualties soon grew to a thousand men between them - more than half their number. 70 survivors managed to hang on in the German front line for a while but soon their grenades and ammunition ran out and they were forced out of it by a counter-attack after 2 hours. .
Of about 300 officers and 8000 men, the Division lost 189 officers and 4719 men dead or wounded.
forum.irishmilitaryonline.com/showthread.php?t=9058
www.webmatters.net/france/ww1_ovillers.htm
According to the Devon's after action report, Lieutenant Colonel Sunderland could see very little of the action.
'At first and for some little time owing to mist and dust caused by our shell fire, it was difficult to realise what had happened … The lines appeared at first sight to be intact… Colonel Sunderland could make out rows of his men lying down. He demanded 'Why aren't they advancing?' The Adjutant, peering through his binoculars turned to the CO and replied 'They're all hit, sir!'.
The survivors bunched as they advanced through the few gaps in the enemy wire and the original wave formation soon ceased to exist, and the remains of companies became mixed together, making a mass of men, among which German fire played havoc'. The German eye witness wrote:
'All along the line, men could be seen throwing up their arms and collapsing, never to move again. Badly wounded rolled about in their agony, and others, less severely injured, crawled to the nearest shell hole for shelter. The extended lines, though badly shaken and with many gaps, now came on all the faster. Instead of a leisurely walk they covered the ground in short rushes at the double..'
The Devon's report recorded that 'only a very few reached the German lines alive. Some got into the German trenches, where they put up a determined fight against enormous odds and were soon killed'. The toehold that the Devons had gained could not be reinforced, as the curtain of fire that the German artillery put down in the middle of no-man's-land had halted the waves of C and D Companies. They were driven to ground by German machine gun fire. 2nd W Yorks, who moved forward behind the Devons at 0825 hours came under fire . By this time the attacking infantry had lost the barrage, which went on as planned. Consequently, only a few of C and D Companies along with A Company 2nd West Yorks reached the German line.
Despite acts of heroism, determination, by 0900 hours, the attack of the 8th Division had failed along the length of it's front. At 0930 hours, Major General Hudson instructed commanders of 23 and 25 Brigades to gather their men and repeat the attack, until it was pointed out that a repeated bombardment would hit the men thought to be stranded in the enemy position.
As late as 1430 hours, there were observers' reports that 'bomb fighting' was going on in the German lines. However, for those remaining out in no man's land it was fortunate that the shell holes, which had earlier hindered the movement of advancing men, now provided cover from enemy fire.
The Devon's Medical Officer, in his aid post dugout in the reserve line, after the initial rush of walking wounded, had few casualties to deal with, as:
'great difficulty was found evacuating the wounded to the Regimental Aid Post. The trenches were too narrow to allow a stretcher to pass and also the trenches had been so knocked about that in many places one was exposed to hostile machine gun and shell fire'
Wounded men succumbed to their wounds, who if properly treated, would have survived. Many lay in agony until, eventually the British barrage, was brought back to the enemy front line. Under its cover many men
regained their frontline and more returned under the cover of darkness.
www.keepmilitarymuseum.org/somme/reg_2nd_devons_1_jul.php?
Lt Col E T F Sandys, CO of the 2nd Middlesex (also of the 23 Bde 8 Div) had been concerned before the battle began about uncut German wire and the enemy trenches which were still occupied despite the heavy Allied barrage in the area of Mash Valley. His battalion had 750 yards of No Man’s Land to cross and they were cut down as he had predicted. The disaster so preyed on his mind that he shot himself in September and died a few days later.
(Extract from ‘When the Barrage lifts" by Gerald Glidden)
www.pricewebhome.co.uk/Docs/Stone/Death_of_Sergeant_HT_St...
A map of the British front line on the 1st July 1916 in this sector, and the German trenches facing them, can be seen here
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:La_Boisselle_sector_1_July_191...
The position of the lead units of the Brigade, (2nd Middlesex and 2nd Devons,) can also be seen here
1914-1918.invisionzone.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=64507
************************Private Ernest Denham**************************************
Name: DENHAM, ERNEST
Rank: Private
Regiment: Norfolk Regiment Unit Text: 1st Bn.
Age: 39 Date of Death: 28/10/1917
Service No: 17234
Additional information: Son of the late Mr. and Mrs. W. Denham, of 65, Patteson Rd., Norwich; husband of Martha Sarah Ann Denham, of 14, Cross St., Sussex St., Norwich, Norfolk.
Grave/Memorial Reference: Panel 34 to 35 and 162A. Memorial: TYNE COT MEMORIAL
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=1629786
No match on Norlink
No baptism record on FreeReg
The 22 year old Ernest, (born Norwich and employed as a Furniture ??? - handwriting is illegible, but the census analyser has added “Carman“ so I‘m assuming the word should be deliverer) is recorded as a boarder at 65 Patteson Road along with his wife Martha, (aged 21 and a Silk Weaver from Norwich). This is down as the household of William J Denham, (aged 45 and a Tobacco Cutter from Norwich) and his wife, Isabella, (aged 44 and from Norwich). Given the information on the CWGC database, it seems odd that Ernest and his wife Martha are described as having no other relationship than being boarders.
On the 1891 Census, the 12 year old Ernest is recorded at 47 Albany Road in the Parish of St Clements. This is the household of his parents, William J and Isabella. They have other children living with them at this time:-
George A.G……………….aged 17.…………….born Norwich………Clicker
Emmeline S……………….aged 15.…………….born Norwich………Upholsterer
Frederick.W………………..aged 14.…………….born Norwich………Cabinet Maker
Going back to the 1881 census, the family can be found at 2 Britannia Terrace, in the Parish of St Clements, although then the mother’s name looks closer to Sarah then Isabella - the curse of census taker’s handwriting strikes again.
Although I’ve not been able to locate the was diary for the 1st Norfolk, the diaries for the 1st Bedfords are fully on line and can be an indication of what or where the 1st Norfolks were up to, as they were in the same brigade. For the period 25th to 28th October, the 1st Bedfords held a position called “Stirling Castle”, and would support an attack on Polderhoek Chateau on the 26th. They took about working with the 1st Cheshires, another Brigade Unit. Havng suffered 103 casualties during their three days in the front line, the 1st Bedfords were relieved by the 1st Devons - the inference being that the 1st Cheshires were relieved by the 1st Norfolks.
www.bedfordregiment.org.uk/1stbn/1stbtn1917diary.html
However, another source has the whole 5th Division being relieved by the 14th Division on this day.
forum.irishmilitaryonline.com/showthread.php?t=11535&...
**************************Private Albert Fox**************************************
Probably
Name: FOX, ALBERT
Rank: Private
Regiment: Norfolk Regiment Unit Text: "A" Coy., 1st/4th Bn.
Age: 19 Date of Death: 21/04/1917
Service No: 200949
Additional information: Son of Fred and Ellen Fox, of Norwich; husband of Mabel Longbone (formerly Fox), of 93, Aylsham Rd., Norwich.
Grave/Memorial Reference: A. 117. Cemetery: DEIR EL BELAH WAR CEMETERY
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=645596
Also 112 other possibles in the CWGC database
No match on Norlink
The 3 year old Albert, born Norwich, can be found on the 1901 census at 23 Newbegins Yard, St Marys Plain, in the Parish of St Marys Coslany.. This is the household of his parents, Fredk. G, (aged 34 and a Boot Finisher from Norwich) and Ellen J. (aged 32 and from Norwich). Their other children are:-
Arthur……………..aged 1.………….born Norwich
Ernest……………..aged 5.………….born Norwich
Rosana……………aged 7.……………born Norwich
There are three more children in the household, presumably Ellen’s from a previous marriage.
Ellen I Perriment……..aged 15.…….born Norwich………..Tailoress
Ethel Perriment………aged 11.…….born Norwich
Fredk Perriment………aged 9.……..born Norwich
On 28 February 1917, the cavalry of the Egyptian Expeditionary Force entered Khan Yunus, midway between the Egyptian border and Deir el Belah causing the Turks to withdraw to Gaza and Beersheba. The railway was pushed forward to Deir el Belah, which became the railhead in April 1917, and an aerodrome and camps were established there. The cemetery was begun towards the end of March and remained in use until March 1919. Most of the burials were made either from field ambulances from March to June 1917, or from the 53rd, 54th, 66th and 74th Casualty Clearing Stations, and the 69th General Hospital, from April 1917 until the Armistice with Turkey. A number of graves, the majority of which were originally at Khan Yunus, were brought into the cemetery after the Armistice.
www.cwgc.org/search/cemetery_details.aspx?cemetery=71200&...
On 19th April the Norfolks took part in a disastrous attempt to take Gaza. In this action casualties for the battalion were 478 (55 killed, 323 wounded and 100 missing). The battalion’s sister unit, 1/5th Norfolks, also took part in the assault and they fared even worse, suffering 643 casualties.
www.oldbuckenham-pri.norfolk.procms.co.uk/pages/viewpage....
While we cannot be sure Arthur died as a result of injuries in the action at Gaza it seems more than probable that this is the case.
***************************Private Robert Fuller*************************************
Prime candidate
Name: FULLER Initials: R
Rank: Private
Regiment: Gloucestershire Regiment Unit Text: 12th Bn.
Age: 21 Date of Death: 20/04/1917
Service No: 22258
Additional information: Son of Samuel and Mary Ann Fuller, of 112, Aylsham Rd., Norwich.
Grave/Memorial Reference: I. A. 12. Cemetery: SUCRERIE CEMETERY, ABLAIN-ST. NAZAIRE
www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=561424
Great War Roll of Honour confirms this is a Robert
1901 Census likely match.
Robert, aged 4, born Norwich. Recorded at 5 Hindes Yard, St Augustines. Parents are
Samuel, (aged 41, Boot Finisher from Norwich), and Mary Ann, (aged 35 and from Norwich). Siblings are Arthur, (9), Charles, (u/1), Elizabeth, (8), Nellie, (3),
The Gloucester Regiment Museum confirms that Private 22258 Robert Fuller was born and enlisted Norwich. His previous unit was the “Hussars of Line”, where his service number was 19928. He is recorded as Killed in action.
www.glosters.org.uk/soldier/13107
From the Battalion War Dairy.
20th April. In trenches. Bois de Hirondelle
In front line. Heavy Enemy Shelling. 7 O.R Killed. 15 O.R wounded. 5 O.R joined as reinforcements.
*********************************Private John J Fuller*****************************
5 possible matches on CWGC
No match on Norlink
1901 Census possibles.
John, aged 2, born Norwich. Recorded at 35 Magpie Road. Parents are Robert, (aged 34, Carman from Norwich) , and Ann, (aged 33, from Norwich). Siblings, Elizabeth, (13), Ernest, (0), Esther, (6), James, (10), Robert, (aged 3) and William, (8). All born Norwich.
On the 1911 census there is one John James with a Norwich connection, and it seems to be the one from Magpie Road.
By a process of elimination, this individual on the CWGC database is our most likely Match
Name: FULLER Initials: J J Nationality: United Kingdom Rank: Private Regiment/Service: Royal Fusiliers Unit Text: 4th Bn. Date of Death: 31/08/1918 Service No: 72688 Casualty Type: Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: I. B. 32. Cemetery: H.A.C. CEMETERY, ECOUST-ST. MEIN
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=303889
The Great War Roll of Honour confirms this is a John J
The 4th Fusiliers were part of the 3rd Division for the the whole. One of the divisional battle honours is
Second Battle of Bapaume. 31 Aug-3 Sep 1918.
On August 31st the 4th Battalion, who had moved up to positions south-east of Ecoust, attacked eastwards. Ten minutes before zero the assembly positions were subjected to a heavy shell and machine-gun fire, and there were many casualties ; and when our barrage began, five minutes
later, it missed the chief obstacles in the way of the Royal Fusiliers' advance. As a consequence, while the battalions on both flanks advanced with little trouble, the 4th Royal Fusiliers were decisively checked by machine-gun fire from the sunken road, about 250 yards to the east. Z Company
made several most gallant attempts to reach these guns, but the men were mown down, and all the officers but one became casualties. The tank which should have assisted in coping with this obstacle caught fire a few minutes before zero. Another tank broke down actually in the road, and a German officer, climbing on top of it, shot or took prisoner the whole of the crew. A machine-gun nest
in the south of Ecoust also devoted too much attention to the battalion, who were completely held up.
About 8 p.m. the 1st Northumberland Fusiliers cleared the sunken road under a creeping barrage, and before dawn on September 1st the 4th Royal Fusiliers had advanced 1,500 yards. At
6 p.m. on the same day, with only eight casualties, the battalion carried the line still further, clearing the sunken road midway between Longatte and Noreuil. In this operation 70 prisoners and several machine guns and trench mortars were captured.
www.ebooksread.com/authors-eng/h-c-herbert-charles-oneill...
*********************************Private A Fulcher*******************************
Possibly
Name: FULCHER Initials: A
Rank: Private
Regiment: Norfolk Regiment Unit Text: 2nd Bn.
Date of Death: 02/11/1915
Service No: 7638
Grave/Memorial Reference: B. 17. Cemetery: KUT WAR CEMETERY
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=637920
Great War Roll of Honour has this soldier listed as an Archie Fulcher
Less likely
Name: FULCHER Initials: A G H
Rank: Private
Regiment: Norfolk Regiment Unit Text: 2nd Bn.
Age: 22 Date of Death: 27/09/1918
Service No: 30383
Additional information: Son of Richanda Alice Beaumont Fulcher, of I, School Rd., Runham, Vauxhall, Gt. Yarmouth, and the late Henry Thurtell Fulcher.
Grave/Memorial Reference: I. N. 17. Cemetery: BASRA WAR CEMETERY
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=509914
Great War Roll of Honour has this soldier listed as an Alfred G H.
Or
Name: FULCHER, ARTHUR JOHN
Rank: Private
Regiment: Norfolk Regiment Unit Text: 1st/4th Bn.
Age: 37 Date of Death: 01/09/1915
Service No: 2243
Additional information: Son of Mrs. Elizabeth Fulcher, of Wymondham, Norfolk, husband of Laura Fulcher, of Damgate Bridge, Wymondham, Norfolk.
Grave/Memorial Reference: Panel 42 to 44. Memorial: HELLES MEMORIAL
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=681137
No match on Norlink
1901 Census matches using search criteria Fulcher and Norwich.
Arthur aged 2, born Norwich. Recorded at 9 Fishers Buildings, parish of St Phillips. Parents are John, (aged 36, Tailor from Rushmere, Suffolk) and Emily, (aged 36, from Norwich). Siblings are, Bertie, (8), Edith, (3), and Thomas, (4) - all born Norwich.
Arthur G, aged 7, born Wymondham. Recorded at 21 Egyptian Road, Bishops Bridge Road. Parents are George, (aged 35 - Railway Plate Layer, Wymondham) and Elizabeth, (aged 35, Norwich), Siblings are Ernest, (1), Margaret, (5), and Thomas (3) - all born Wymondham.
Albert aged 9, born Norwich. Recorded at 107 Dereham Road. Parents are Robert, (aged 42, Licensed Victualler from Norwich), and Hannah, (aged 41, from Norwich), Siblings are Adlaine, (14), Donald, (3), Leonard, (7), Lucy, (17) - all born Norwich.
The 1911 census has only one match for an Archie Fulcher for the whole of England and Wales. This individual is shown as being born circa 1891 at St Marys, Norwich, Norfolk. His current whereabouts are not however listed. As St Marys is the neighbouring parish to St Augustines, this tends to strengthen the case for this being our man.
Archie does not appear to be on either the 1901 or 1891 Census for England and Wales.
From India to Mesopotamia
To protect the British owned oil fields in Persia and to stop Turkish domination of the Middle East an Indian Expeditionary Force was sent to the Persian Gulf. As part of this Force the Norfolk Regiment left Belgaum for Bombay under the command of Lieu-Colonel E C Peebles and boarded HM Transport Elephanta on 6 November1914. The 2nd Norfolks arrived at Seniyeh in the Persian Gulf on 15 November 1914 and joined the 18th Brigade, which consisted of the 7th Rajput's, 110th Mahratta Light Infantry and 120th Rajputana Infantry.
The 2nd Norfolks took part in several battles during the advance, finally culminating in the Battle of Ctesiphon on the 22/11/1915, when British force of 11000 defeat a Turkish force of over 18000. Battle ends with a bayonet charge across open ground. Norfolks suffer 6 officers killed 27 men killed, 225 wounded and 2 missing.
However, with opposition mounting, on the 24th November 1915,the Brigade under the command of General Townshend suffering losses and sickness has to withdraw to Kut. The Norfolks form the rear guard as the Brigade withdraws. The 44 miles to Kut is covered in 36 hours. The 2nd Norfolks now comprise half their effective fighting
Kut- al-mara, having been taken in July had been the Allies strong-point and medical base, so its likely that Archie died either as a result of wounds sustained in July or as a result of illness.
www.stephen-stratford.co.uk/pte_wilby.htm
*******************************Private Herbert Gooch*********************************
Probably
Name: GOOCH, HERBERT FRANCIS
Rank: Lance Corporal
Regiment: King's Own (Royal Lancaster Regiment) Unit Text: 1st Bn.
Age: 29 Date of Death: 20/04/1918
Service No: 28285
Additional information: Son of Mr. and Mrs. Gooch; husband of Mrs. Gooch, of 38, Magpie Rd., Norwich. Native of Norwich.
Grave/Memorial Reference: XXIX. K. 4A. Cemetery: ETAPLES MILITARY CEMETERY
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=501487
During the First World War, the area around Etaples was the scene of immense concentrations of Commonwealth reinforcement camps and hospitals. It was remote from attack, except from aircraft, and accessible by railway from both the northern or the southern battlefields. In 1917, 100,000 troops were camped among the sand dunes and the hospitals, which included eleven general, one stationary, four Red Cross hospitals and a convalescent depot, could deal with 22,000 wounded or sick.
www.cwgc.org/search/cemetery_details.aspx?cemetery=56500&...
No match on Norlink
The 12 year old Herbert F, (born Norwich), is recorded on the 1901 census at 60 Beaconsfield Road, in the Parish of St James. This is the household of his parents, Thomas, (aged 44 and a “Restry Cook and Cow Feetner” - Genes Re-united transcriber, or “PastryCook and Confectioner” - Moominpappa, from Great Yarmouth), and Harriet F, (aged 41 and from Ludham). Their other children are:-
Annie M……………….aged 10.………….born Norwich
Arthur S……………….aged 17.…………..born Norwich………Railway Telegraphist
Audrey A………………aged 19.………….born Norwich
Charles Ed……………..aged 14.………….born Norwich………Railway Telegraph Messenger
Edward E………………aged 4.…………born Norwich
Ernest………………….aged u/1.………..born Norwich
Frederick J…………….aged 7.………….born Norwich
George Wm……………aged 5.…………born Norwich
The International Genealogical Index has further details. Herbert Francis was born the 25th July 1888 in the parish of St Peter Parmentergate. He would marry Alice Maud Armes, on the 10th November 1917 in the Parish Church of St Augustines.. His place of death is recorded as the 4th General Hospital, Carniers.
www.familysearch.org/Eng/Search/IGI/individual_record.asp...
Alice was born 1897 and would finally die in 1994, having been 75 years a widow.
His parents were Thomas Wade Gooch and Harriet Frances Storey.
www.familysearch.org/Eng/Search/IGI/individual_record.asp...
The 4th Division, of which the 1st Kings Own formed part were heavily engaged in March and April 1918 in fighting off the the German Spring offensive including
First Battle of Arras. 28 Mar 1918.
Battle of Hazebrouck. 12-15 Apr, including the defence of the Hinges Ridge and the Nieppe Forest.
Battle of Bethune. 18 Apr 1918, including the second defence of Givenchy.
L\Corporal Gooch could have succumbed to wounds received in any of these actions.
****************************Private Ralph V Gant********************************
Only R V Gant on the CWGC database
Name: GANT, RALPH VICTOR
Rank: Private
Regiment: Essex Regiment Unit Text: 10th Bn.
Date of Death: 21/03/1918
Service No: 34675
Grave/Memorial Reference: Panel 51 and 52. Memorial: POZIERES MEMORIAL
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=1581248
No match on Norlink
A family web-site adds that he was the husband of a Glady Gant
www.gant-name.org.uk/lestweforget.html
The 7 year old Ralph, (born Norwich), is recorded on the 1901 census at 30 Old Palace Road, Norwich, in the parish of St Bartholomew. This is the household of his parents, Benjamin, (aged 42 and a house builder from Reedham), and Emma, (aged 50 and from Norwich). Their other children are:-
Alice………………aged 17.……………born Norwich…….Dressmaker
Benjamin………….aged 13.……………born Norwich
Ethel………………aged 20.……………born Norwich…….Tailoress
Frederick………….aged 19.……………born Norwich…….Carpenter
The Gants also have a boarder living with them, Caroline Thompson, aged 20 and from Strumpshaw who works as a dressmaker.
Given that information and checking the family web-site we can also identify that brother Frederick fell in the Great War.
Name: GANT Initials: F T
Rank: Rifleman
Regiment: King's Royal Rifle Corps Unit Text: 11th Bn.
Age: 35 Date of Death: 25/09/1917
Service No: R/15481
Additional information: Son of Emma and the late Benjamin Gant, of 67, West End St., Norwich, Norfolk.
Grave/Memorial Reference: VI. B. 11A. Cemetery: WIMEREUX COMMUNAL CEMETERY
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=508460
21st March 1918
From the diary of the 8th Battalion East Surrey Regiment, who were in the same division.
21st March 1918. St Quentin, Soissons, Amiens.
The enemy artillery had been gradually increasing in intensity all night, and at 4.30 am reached a maximum, and the battalion was ordered to stand to. The shelling was all east of the CROZAT CANAL and no shells fell near the camp.
At 12.30 pm the commanding officer received a verbal order from the Divisional Headquarters to take the Battalion at once to a position of assembly on the Western outskirts of REMIGY and to proceed himself to the H.qtrs of the 10th ESSEX REGT at LY FONTAINE, where he would received further orders from the G.O.C 53rd Inf. Bde. This order was carried out at once, Companies being in the assembly area by 1.30pm.
The C.O reported to the Hqts 10th Essex Regt but found no orders for him there until about 2pm when Col.Minette DSO MC DGMO turned up with orders from the Division to hold LY FONTAINE - GIBECOURT SWITCH LINE, on the west of LY FONTAINE.
As parties of the enemy could now be seen close to the switch line on the east of LY FONTAINE, the Commanding Officer decided to send “D” Company to make good that section of the line, and for “A” and “C” companies to hold the LY FONTAINE - GIBECOURT SWITCH with “B” Co in Battalion reserve, ½ mile North of REMIGY. These dispositions were taken up and about 3.30 pm a message was received from Brig.Gen Higginson, DSO commanding 53rd Bde that enemy cavalry were working round our left rear from the direction of MONTESCOURT.
Two platoons of “B” Co were therefore ordered to take up a line facing N.W to guard against surprise from that quarter. Battalion H.qrs were established in the North end of REMIGY.
At 9.30pm an order was received from the 53rd Bde to the effect that the battalion would take up a line N and E of REMIGY to cover the retirement of units of the 53rd Bde at 10.30 pm, and that when this operation had been completed, the battalion would withdraw in rearguard formation to the West of CROZAT CANAL and rendezvous at FRIERES - FAILLOUEL, this withdrawal to commence at midnight.
Austin R
Possibly
Name: AUSTIN, ROBERT
Rank: Lance Corporal
Regiment: Royal Sussex Regiment
Unit Text: 11th Bn.
Age: 20
Date of Death: 31/07/1917
Service No: G/11619
Additional information: Son of Ephraim and Elizabeth Austin, of 23, Napier St., Norwich.
Grave/Memorial Reference: Panel 20. Memorial: YPRES (MENIN GATE) MEMORIAL
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=925925
There is a picture of Robert on Norlink
norlink.norfolk.gov.uk/02_Catalogue/02_013_PictureTitleIn...
The accompanying notes read:-
Lance Corporal Austin was born at Norwich, 18th June 1897, the son of Mr. & Mrs. Austin, 23 Napier Street, Norwich. He enlisted on 10th May 1916 and was killed 31st July 1917. This photograph was donated by his mother.
The 3 year old Robert, born Norwich, is recorded on the 1901 census at 10 Chequers Yard, in the parish of St Michael Coslany. This is the household of his parents, Ephraim, (aged 42 and a shoemaker from Norwich), and Frances E, (aged 44 and a Brushmaker from Norwich). Their other children are:-
Ephraim…………….aged 10.……………born Norwich
Harry………………..aged 9.…………….born Norwich
Tuesday 31st July 1917 - Day 1
The First Stage of the Third Battle of Ypres began with The Battle of Pilckem Ridge. Third Ypres is more usually called the Battle of Passchendaele. Zero Hour was 3.50am.
St. Julian
39th Division
116 Bde
The Division was supported by eight tanks in it’s attack.
116 Bde attacked with 11th, 12th and 13th Bns, Royal Sussex Regt and 14th Bn, Hampshire Regt. 13th Sussex captured St. Julian with the aid of the brigades two tanks.
forum.irishmilitaryonline.com/showthread.php?t=11535
The Battalion lost a total of 150 Killed, Wounded or Missing on this Day.
battlefields1418.50megs.com/11sussex.htm
Contemporary views of the village
www.oucs.ox.ac.uk/ww1lit/collections/item/9098?CISOROOT=%...
Barker F
Initially too many potential matches on the CWGC database
No match on Norlink
Possibles from the 1901 census
Frederick, aged u/1, 2 Home Street, Parish St Bartholomew, parents William & Eva (no obvious match 1911 census)
Frederick J, aged 2, Silver Road, Parish St James, parents Frederick & Agnes (Frederick John, still recorded Norwich, 1911 census)
Francis, aged 6, 104 Oak Street, Parish St Martins, parents William and Elizabeth. (still recorded Norwich, 1911 census)
Frank, aged 10, 15 Branford Road, Parish St James, parents Robert and Jemima,( recorded Bedford on the 1911 census)
New on the 1911 census
Fredrick, born Norwich, circa 1887
Probably, based on the census possibles.
Name: BARKER, FRANCIS FREDERIC
Rank: Rifleman
Regiment: King's Royal Rifle Corps
Unit Text: 9th Bn.
Age: 22
Date of Death: 18/08/1917
Service No: R/14432
Additional information: Son of William and Elizabeth Barker, of 104, Oak St., Norwich. Grave/Memorial Reference: I. E. 27. Cemetery: PERTH CEMETERY (CHINA WALL)
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=102964
The 6 year old Francis, born Norwich, is recorded at 104 Oak Street, in the Parish of St Martins at Oak. This is the household of his parents, William Robert, (aged 34 and a Shoe Finisher from Norwich), and Elizabeth (aged 36 and from Norwich). Their other children are:-
Har’d (??) Percy…………aged u/1.……………born Norwich
Hilda Clara……………aged 4.…………….born Norwich
William George………aged 7.……………..born Norwich
Battle of Passchendaele (Third Ypres)
Saturday 18th August 1917 - Day 19
Rainfall Nil
Hooge
14th Division
43 Bde
14th Div relieved 56th Div overnight.
43 Bde then launched a two battalion attack with 6th Bn, Duke of Cornwall’s Light Infantry and 6th Bn, Somerset Light Infantry. The Somersets followed the barrage through Inverness Copse while the Cornwalls to the north came under fire from Fitzclarence Farm and L-Shaped Farm. They withdrew to Inverness Copse where two tanks came up the Menin Road in support. Three German attacks were driven off during the day.
forum.irishmilitaryonline.com/showthread.php?t=11535&...
(8th KRRC were part of 14th Division).
Button T E
Only T E Button on the CWGC database
Name: BUTTON, THOMAS EDWARD
Rank: Private
Regiment: East Surrey Regiment
Unit Text: 8th Bn.
Date of Death: 30/09/1916
Service No: 20319
Grave/Memorial Reference: Pier and Face 6 B and 6 C. Memorial: THIEPVAL MEMORIAL
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=762546
There is a picture of Thomas on Norlink, headed 8th East Surreys Regiment
norlink.norfolk.gov.uk/02_Catalogue/02_013_PictureTitleIn...
The accompanying notes read:-
Born at Norwich, 10th December 1892 and educated at Angel Road School. Enlisted in March 1916 and killed in action in France, 5th October 1916.
There is no other individual listed with the surname Button on the CWGC database who died on the 5th October 1916, so assume this is either a discrepancy on the Norlink notes or the CWGC information.
The 8 year old Thomas, born Norwich, is recorded on the 1901 census at 54, Langley Street, in the parish of St Bartholomew. This is the household of his parents, (aged 35 and a “Fitter Up in Boot Trade” from Yarmouth), and Rose, (aged 29 and from Norwich). Their other children are:-
Ethel………………….aged 4.…………….born Norwich
Fred…………………..aged 6.…………….born Norwich
Saturday 30th September 1916. Day 92
Thiepval
A German attack at dawn drove the East Surreys from the southern face and the West Kents from the western face of Schwaben Redoubt. A hand to hand fight ensued during which the East Surreys re-took the lost ground. The Hun held onto the western face. At 4pm the East Surreys attacked and took the northern face of the redoubt while the West Kents and two platoons of 7th Buffs failed to retake the west face. At 9pm the Germans attacked again and drove the East Surreys back to the entrance to Stuff Trench.
forum.irishmilitaryonline.com/showthread.php?t=9058&p...
Battalions War diary for the day
qrrarchive.websds.net/PDF/ES00819160914.pdf
Officers - 4 killed, 4 wounded, 1 missing believed killed.
OR’s - 43 killed, 234 wounded, 34 missing
The battalion seems to have been providing work parties prior to the 6th, October when it was withdrawn completely. Therefore looks most likely that Private Button died on the 30th, although given the high volumes of OR’s wounded, he may have succumbed to his wounds on that date.
Cletheroe A
Name: CLETHEROE, ALBERT CRISTMAS
Rank: Corporal
Regiment: Royal Field Artillery
Unit Text: "D" Bty. 95th Bde.
Age: 25
Date of Death: 20/11/1918
Service No: 876017
Additional information: Son of Mrs. A. E. Cletheroe, of 8, St. Lawrence Lane, Pottergate, Norwich.
Grave/Memorial Reference: II. A. 8. Cemetery: CAUDRY BRITISH CEMETERY
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=571592
No match on Norlink
The 8 year old Albert C, (born Norwich), is recorded on the 1901 census at 8 Chapmans Buildings, Old Palace Road, in the parish of St Bartholomew. This is the household of his parents, Albert, (aged 28 and a Wine Merchants Carter from Norwich), and Lavinia, (aged 30 and from Norwich). Their other children are:-
Dorothy………………aged 9.………….born Norwich
Frank…………………aged 3.………….born Norwich
Harry…………………aged 5.………….born Norwich
May…………………..aged u/1.………..born Norwich
The 95th Brigade RFA were the Divisional Infantry unit for the 21st Division.
www.21stdivision1914-18.org/wardiariesandresearch.htm
Cropley W
Name: CROPLEY, WALTER CHARLES
Rank: Corporal
Service: Royal Engineers
Unit Text: Signals
Secondary Regiment: Royal Garrison Artillery
Secondary Unit Text: attd. 78th Heavy Bty.
Age: 27 Date of Death: 03/04/1918
Service No: 253434
Additional information: Croix de Guerre (Belgium). Son of James and Eliza Cropley, of Norwich; husband of Marion Ellen Cropley, of 8, Distillery Street, Norwich.
Grave/Memorial Reference: C. 14B. Cemetery: BOIS GUILLAUME COMMUNAL CEMETERY EXTENSION
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=121604
No match on Norlink
The Croix De Guerre was officially gazetted on the 16th April 1918.
www.london-gazette.co.uk/issues/30631/supplements/4530/pa...
The 10 year old Walter, (born Norwich), is recorded on the 1901 census at 5 Fishers Lane, in the parish of St Lawrence. This is the household of his parents, James, (aged 61 and a Shopkeeper from Norwich), and Eliza, (aged 51 and from Norwich). They also have a son Frank, aged 13.
BOIS GUILLAUME COMMUNAL CEMETERY EXTENSION
The extension adjoins Bois Guillaume Communal Cemetery. It was begun in March 1917 and most of the burials came from No.8 General Hospital, which was quartered at Bois Guillaume in a large country house and grounds.
www.cwgc.org/search/cemetery_details.aspx?cemetery=11901&...
Dugdale A E
Only A E Dugdale on the CWGC database
Name: DUGDALE Initials: A E
Rank: Pioneer
Service: Royal Engineers
Unit Text: 314th Railway Construction Coy.
Date of Death: 28/10/1917
Service No: 308022
Grave/Memorial Reference: II. F. 18. Cemetery: BELGIAN BATTERY CORNER CEMETERY
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=92754
No match on Norlink
This cemetery occupies a site at a road junction where three batteries of Belgian artillery were positioned in 1915. The cemetery was begun by the 8th Division in June 1917 after the Battle of Messines (although one grave in Plot III, Row A, predates this) and it was used until October 1918, largely for burials from a dressing station in a cottage near by. Almost half of the graves are of casualties who belonged, or were attached, to artillery units.
www.cwgc.org/search/cemetery_details.aspx?cemetery=8900&a...
The Great War Roll of Honour confirms this is an Arthur E.
The only match on the 1901 census is a 1 year old Arthur, born Norwich, and then residing at 117 Cowgate Street. However, that makes it unlikely that he would have died as a Pioneer in 1917.
The 1911 census has an Arthur Ernest, born circa 1881 Norwich, and still recorded in the District. However, the same individual does not appear to be on the Genes Re-united transcription of the 1901 census.
Durrant D G
Only D G Durrant on the CWGC database
Name: DURRANT, DUDLEY GARTON
Rank: Second Lieutenant
Regiment: Gloucestershire Regiment
Unit Text: "A" Coy. 1st/5th Bn.
Age: 23
Date of Death: 16/08/1916
Additional information: Son of Ellen Mary Durrant, of "Cairnsmore", 6, Langley Avenue, Surbiton, Surrey, and the late Edward Durrant.
Grave/Memorial Reference: Pier and Face 5 A and 5 B. Memorial: THIEPVAL MEMORIAL
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=752447
There is a picture of 2nd Lt Durrant on this web-site, which also notes that he was “Killed in action 16th August 1916 - 1/5th Bn 'A' Company. Killed in the night attack on Pozieres Ridge. Aged 23. Born 28th May 1893, in Surbiton, Surrey. Son of Ellen and the late Edward Durrant, of Surbiton, Surrey. Listed on the Thiepval Memorial
glosters.tripod.com/1916off.html
There is nothing to obviously link the Durrant’s to Norwich - Dudley’s mother was from Wiltshire and his father from Chelmsford.
However, could be
Name: DURRANT Initials: D
Rank: Private
Regiment: Norfolk Regiment
Unit Text: 2nd Bn.
Date of Death: 30/11/1916
Service No: 8184
Grave/Memorial Reference: Angora Mem. 58. Cemetery: BAGHDAD (NORTH GATE) WAR CEMETERY
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=633279
No match on Norlink
The Great War Roll of Honour has this soldier down as a David, and gives his rank as Musician.
But the Genes re-united transcriptions of the 1901 and 1911 censuses has no obvious David Durrant with a Norwich connection. There is a Douglas Durrant on the 1901 census, but there is no Douglas listed on either the CWGC database or the Great War Roll of Honour.
Farrow F
Possibles
Name: FARROW, FREDERICK CHARLES
Rank: Private
Regiment: Norfolk Regiment
Unit Text: 1st Bn.
Age: 24
Date of Death: 25/10/1914
Service No: 317805
Additional information: Son of Mrs. M. A. Farrow, of 22, Foundry Bridge Buildings, Prince of Wales Rd., Norwich.
Grave/Memorial Reference: Panel 8. Memorial: LE TOURET MEMORIAL
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=859235
Name: FARROW, FRANK JOSEPH
Rank: Private
Regiment: Norfolk Regiment
Unit Text: 7th Bn.
Date of Death: 13/10/1915
Service No: 9208
Grave/Memorial Reference: Panel 30 and 31. Memorial: LOOS MEMORIAL
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=2942213
Name: FARROW, FREDERICK
Rank: Private
Regiment: Norfolk Regiment
Unit Text: 1st Bn.
Date of Death: 23/04/1917
Service No: 20943
Grave/Memorial Reference: Bay 3. Memorial: ARRAS MEMORIAL
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=1541839
No match on Norlink
Possibles from the 1901 census,
Frederic, aged 2 months, born Norwich, 31 Adelaide Street, parents Alfred and Catherine
Francis L, aged 7, born Norwich, 72 Dereham Road, mother Annie, maternal grandparents John and Catherine Boulger
Frederick, aged 8, born Norwich, now at 18 Moat Place, Gt Yarmouth, parents Samuel & Eliza
Fred, aged 10, born Norwich, 25 Egyptian Road, Bishops Bridge, parents George & Mary Ann
Frederick W, aged 22, born Norwich, Clerk Mustard Dept, Lock & Key Yard, parents Alfred & Sarah
What appears to be the baptism record of the 8 year old Frederick shown above took place on the 4th June 1893 at St Mary’s Ellingham. His date of birth is given as the 31st March 1893. His parents are Frederick Samuel and Eliza, ad the family address is given as Timber Hill, Norwich. The father works as a Saddler.
Given all that information, the prime candidate for a casualty with this name from Norwich is the 1st Battalion Man who died 25/10/1914. His age and additional information on the CWGC database would tend to tie in with the individual who was aged 10 on the 1901 census. However, whether it’s the same F Farrow who is commemorated at St Laurences is a moot point.
25th October 1914
From “The Doings of the 15th Infantry Brigade” by Brig-Gen Count Gleichen:
Oct. 25th._ Another lovely warm day of Indian summer. Also of many shells, some falling pretty close to our cottage. The Germans were seen making splendid use of the folds in the ground for driving saps and connecting up their heads into trenches getting nearer and nearer to our lines. And we could do nothing but shell them and snipe them as best we could, but with little result, for artillery observation-posts were almost impossible, and snap-shooting at an occasional head or shovel appearing above ground produced but small results. Three French batteries arrived during the morning and were put under Blanchard's orders in the swampy wood behind Givenchy. Some spasmodic attacks occurred on the trenches east of the village, and the French lost rather heavily; for the Germans got into some of their evacuated trenches and killed the wounded there. A speedy counter-attack, however, drove them out again. The Devons lost two officers (Besley and Quick) and ten men killed and thirty-eight wounded. At 4.50 P.M. I got a message saying large columns of the enemy had been seen by the French issuing from La Bassée and Violaines, and I was ordered peremptorily to be ready to counter-attack at once, with my whole force if required. Sir Horace Smith-Dorrien arrived alone an hour or so afterwards, and I pointed out our situation to him; he entirely concurred in my view, and heartened me up considerably by quite recognising the state of affairs and congratulating us, and especially the Devons, on sticking it out so well.
www.gutenberg.org/cache/epub/22074/pg22074.txt
Fields H J
No obvious match on CWGC
No match on Norlink
Possibly
Name: FIELD, HERBERT JOSEPH
Rank: Corporal
Regiment: Norfolk Regiment
Unit Text: 1st/5th Bn.
Date of Death: 12/08/1915
Service No: 2490
Grave/Memorial Reference: Panel 42 to 44. Memorial: HELLES MEMORIAL
CWGC; www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=695991
However, the 1901 census has a 12 year old Herbert J Fields, born Norwich and recorded at 21 Lower Goat Lane, in the Parish of St Gregory. This is the household of his parents, James H, (aged 32 and a Licensed Victualler from Norwich) and Christianah M, (aged 32 and from Norwich). Their other children are:-
Edith M………………….aged 6.…………..born Norwich
George A………………..aged 8.………….born Norwich
The same individual does not appear to be on the 1911 census, but there is a Herbert Joseph Field who was born circa 1889 in Norwich, and who is still resident there.. He lives in a household that includes a James Herbert, (born circa 1869), an Edith Alice, (born circa 1895), and a “Cristianna” Mary, (born circa 1869).
To date I can’t find any other place laying claim to Corporal Herbert Joseph Field, so the balance of probability at the moment are that the H J Fields and he are the same man.
Among the hundreds of thousands of Allied troops sent to Gallipoli were two battalions of the Royal Norfolk Regiment, the 1/4th and the 1/5th (Territorial).
The Norfolks left Liverpool aboard the SS Aquitainia on 29 July and arrived at Suvla Bay in Gallipoli on 10 August 1915. Just two days later the 1/5th battalion were ordered to clear Turkish positions on the Anafarta Plain prior to the Allied advance. Their sister battalion, the 1/4th waited in reserve and were not involved in the events that followed. The outcome was typical of the poor planning which characterized the whole campaign. The attack was to be made in broad daylight without adequate maps against the well-prepared Turks, who were firmly dug in along a ridge of hills overlooking the bay. The enemy were armed with machine guns and supported by dozens of snipers, many of them teenage girls, camouflaged and hidden in trees. The Norfolk battalion was made up of 16 officers and 250 men and was led by a veteran of the campaign in the Sudan, Lieutenant-Colonel Sir Horace Proctor-Beauchamp. As they left their positions, the 1/5th battalion were joined by hundreds of other British soldiers from battalions of the Suffolk and Hampshire regiments.
The attack quickly turned into a massacre. For some reason during the advance the Norfolks turned slightly to the right, opening up a gap between them and the other British troops from whom they had become separated. As the exhausted Norfolks fixed bayonets and prepared to charge the Turkish positions on the Kavak Tepe ridge they were picked off by snipers and mown down by machine gun fire. Lt-Col Beauchamp was last seen leading his doomed men into a burning forest from which they never emerged. As night fell the few survivors, wounded and exhausted, began to filter back to the British positions at Suvla Bay. The battalion War Diary held at the National Archives records the following under the date 12 August 1915:
"163rd Brigade made a frontal attack on strong Turkish position. 5th Norfolks on right met a strong opposition and suffered heavily. Lost 22 officers and about 350 men. Held our lines during the night in spite of heavy enemy fire."
In December 1915, as the Allies prepared to abandon the campaign, the Commander in Chief of the British forces, Sir Ian Hamilton, sent his "final dispatch from the Dardanelles" to the Secretary of State for War, Lord Kitchener. In it, he accounted for the loss of the Norfolks in the following way. I have underlined the words that seem to emphasize the inexplicable nature of the incident:
"in the course of the fight, there happened a very mysterious thing. Against the yielding forces of the enemy Colonel Sir H. Beauchamp, a bold, self-confident officer, eagerly pressed forward, followed by the best part of the battalion. The fighting grew hotter [and] at this stage many men were wounded or grew exhausted but the Colonel, with 16 officers and 250 men kept pushing forward, driving the enemy before him, nothing more was seen or heard of any of them. They charged into the forest and were lost to sight or sound. Not one of them ever came back"
Hamilton's account must have been based upon reports from British officers who had watched from a distance as the disaster unfolded. One of these was a brigade major, Lt-Col Villiers Stuart, who watched the Norfolk's attack through field glasses. He wrote
"On the evening of 12 August 1915 I was observing the low ground in the neighbourhood of Anafarta Ova, [at] a distance of about 2000 to 2500 yards, when, to my surprise I saw what appeared to be about a battalion of our troops advancing rapidly, and apparently unsupported towards the enemy positions on Kvak Tepe. Knowing that there was a considerable concentration of Turks in a gully, on the left flank of the advance, I anticipated trouble and got the two mountain guns, ready for action to try to protect the left flank of the advancing troops. Almost immediately the Turks debouched from their cover and attacked our men in the flank and rear. It was soon too dark to see the issue of the fight, but at the time I was afraid they would be destroyed."
The actual fate of the battalion was discovered in 1919 at the end of the war when the Commonwealth War Graves Commission began searching the battlefields at Gallipoli for the remains of soldiers. There an investigator discovered a cap badge belonging to a soldier of the Norfolk regiment hidden in sand 800 yards behind the Turkish lines at Suvla Bay. This led the commanding officer to write home triumphantly: "We have found the 5th Norfolks." When this news reached the War Office they sent a chaplain who had served during the campaign back to Gallipoli to investigate. The Rev Charles Pierrepoint Edwards examined the area where the cap badge had been uncovered and found a mass grave containing 180 bodies, from which the remains of 122 were identified as members of the "Vanished Battalion." The remains included those of their commanding officer, Lt-Col Beuchamp, who was identified by the distinctive shoulder flashes on his uniform. Of the 266 officers and men reported as missing, 144 remained unaccounted for, but a number of these had been captured and some had subsequently died in the notorious Turkish prison camps. A few had survived captivity to describe what had really happened, but their stories did not emerge until half a century later.
In his book The Vanished Battalion (1991) McCrery revealed new evidence that explained why the full facts discovered by the clergyman who visited the mass grave were not revealed in 1919. He found there was evidence of an official cover-up but this was not to hide evidence of an extraterrestrial kidnapping. In this case it was to conceal evidence of both a military blunder and a war crime. For it emerged that of the bodies discovered that many had been shot through the head as the Turkish soldiers did not like to take prisoners of war. His evidence was backed up by the story of a British survivor of the massacre, who testified before his death in 1969 that he had seen Turkish soldiers bayoneting wounded and helpless prisoners and shooting others in the wood where the battalion disappeared. The survivor escaped only because of the intervention of a German officer who saved his life and he spent the remainder of the war in a prison camp.
It appears that the Rev Charles Pierrepoint Edwards concealed this disturbing evidence in his report to the War Office so as to spare the feelings of the families and the King, who continued to believe their loved ones died gallantly in battle with the enemy. Furthermore, McCrery points out that Sir Ian Hamilton - the Allied commander responsible for the campaign - had an personal interest in making the disappearance of the battalion appear more mysterious than it actually was. His dispatch to Kitchener suggested the disappearance of the battalion was inexplicable. During the campaign the King personally telegraphed Hamilton asking about the fate of Captain Beck and his Sandringham company. McCrery asks:
"What was he to say? 'Sorry, but I've just sacrificed them all quite needlessly in yet another botched attack?' His best course of action, I believe, was to create an air of mystery and thereby stop any form of enquiry into their loss or his leadership."
Shortly after the disaster at Gallipoli Hamilton was relieved of his command and never offered another. In the years that followed, the story he had set loose would become transformed into a fully-fledged legend of the war and a UFO mystery that simply would not die.
This article was oringally published in UFO Magazine (UK) 2004
www.drdavidclarke.co.uk/vanbat.htm
Forkes A B
Name: FORKES Initials: A B
Rank: Trooper
Regiment: Household Battalion
Date of Death: 11/04/1917
Service No: 1439
Grave/Memorial Reference: G. 11. Cemetery: ATHIES COMMUNAL CEMETERY EXTENSION
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=256890
(The Great War Roll of Honour identifies this soldier as Trooper Albert B Forkes)
Athies was captured by the 9th (Scottish) Division, which included the South African Brigade, on 9 April 1917, and from then it remained in Allied hands. ATHIES COMMUNAL CEMETERY contains one Commonwealth burial of the First World War. The adjoining COMMUNAL CEMETERY EXTENSION was begun immediately after the capture of the village and used by field ambulances and fighting units until May 1918, and again in September 1918.
www.cwgc.org/search/cemetery_details.aspx?cemetery=25201&...
Norlink has a Trooper Albert Bertie Forkes of the 2nd Life Guards, but the accompanying notes read:
Trooper Forkes was born 6th September 1886 and educated at Wymondham Council school. He enlisted on 23rd October 1916. He died from wounds received in action in France, 11th April 1917
norlink.norfolk.gov.uk/02_Catalogue/02_013_PictureTitleIn...
The only Albert Forkes listed on the Genes Re-united Transcription of the 1901 Census for England & Wales is a 14 year old Albert, born Wymondham, and recorded at Queens Street, Wymondham. Albert appears on the Wymondham Memorial.
www.flickr.com/photos/43688219@N00/2945548176/
My notes from the research done on that memorial are:-
At the time of the 1901 Census, Albert, a 14 year old Boot Shop Assistant, was living at Queens Street, Wymondham in the household of his parents, William, (aged 58, a boot maker), and Rhoda Forkes, (aged 54). Also in the household were siblings Earnest Forkes, (age 16, a Grocers assistant), Fred, (aged 12) and William, (aged 18 and a Brush Factory hand)
The Scarpe, Arras, Fampoux and Roeux (8th April to 14th May 1917)
The misfortunes of Britain's allies in 1917 dictated circumstances in which three major battles, Arras, 3rd Ypres and Cambrai, were planned and fought. The Household Battalion was involved to the hilt in all three. The French commander Nivelle was replaced by Marshals Foch and Petain in Spring 1917 after part of the French army mutinied. Field Marshall Sir Douglas Haig launched the Arras offensive on Easter Monday 1917 to draw German attention away from the disaster which had overtaken the French army, further South. As a cavalry officer, he saw the mission of cavalry as the exploitation of the eventual break through in the trench war stalemate and put the 3rd Cavalry Division into the attack on the Hindenhurg Line at Monchy le Preux on Easter Monday, 9th April 1917. There was a general advance of the infantry north and south of the 45 foot wide, 6 foot deep Scarpe River flowing east to west through Arras. North of the Scarpe, the Household Battalion, as part of the 10th Brigade in the 4th Infantry Division were allotted the task of advancing along the swampy banks of the muddy little river on the hamlet of Fampoux, (formerly pop. 1,015 but now flattened and enemy held).
While their brothers of The 1st and 2nd Life Guards and Blues rode against barbed wire and machine guns with the 3rd Cavalry Division to Monchy, The Household Battalion stalked towards Fampoux with rifles and bayonets in the sleet. With them were the Warwicks, Seaforth and Royal Irish Fusiliers. It took the Brigade 11 days to take Fampoux and The Household Battalion lost 9 Officers and 166 non Commissioned Officers and Men killed in action. Ahead was the smaller but even more formidable German defence at Roeux at a bend in the river, one mile from Fampoux and 6,000 yards from the Hindenhurg Line itself.
www.maxwall.co.uk/army/history.htm
On the 1911 census, the 24 year old Albert Bertie is still recorded in the District of Forehoe, Norfolk, which covers Wymondham.
Griffiths L
Possible
Name: GRIFFITHS, LEWIS HERBERT
Rank: Second Lieutenant
Regiment: Norfolk Regiment
Unit Text: 12th (Norfolk Yeo.) Bn.
Age: 21
Date of Death: 11/09/1918
Additional information: Son of Herbert James and Eva Griffiths, of 72, Caernarvon Rd., Norwich.
Grave/Memorial Reference: VIII. O. 9. Cemetery: STRAND MILITARY CEMETERY
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=165177
No match on Norlink
'Charing Cross' was the name given by the troops to a point at the end of a trench called the Strand, which led into Ploegsteert Wood. In October 1914, two burials were made at this place, close to an Advanced Dressing Station, The cemetery was not used between October 1914 and April 1917, but in April-July 1917 Plots I to VI were completed. Plots VII to X were made after the Armistice, when graves were brought in from some small cemeteries and from the battlefields lying mainly between Wytschaete and Armentieres. The cemetery was in German hands for a few months in 1918, but was very little used by them.
The History of the Cemetery on the CWGC site lists a number of the small cemeteries that were concentrated into The Strand Military Cemetery, but only one contained the graves of those who fell in 1918.
LA BASSE-VILLE GERMAN CEMETERY, WARNETON (West Flanders), on the road from La Basse-Ville to Warneton, contained the graves of 68 soldiers from the United Kingdom and one from South Africa who died in German hands, April-August, 1918.
www.cwgc.org/search/cemetery_details.aspx?cemetery=16400&...
Its unlikely that captured troops , especially an officer, would be retained near the front line for any length of time, so its likely that the bodies buried would either have fallen while fighting and had not been recovered by their own side, or had succumbed to wounds encurred shortly before and had been taken prisoner.
While the War Diary of the 12th Norfolks shows them as being in the front line from the night of the 8th/9th September and were actively patrolling by day and night (“and mush useful information about the enemy was obtained”) until relieved on the night of the 13th /14th there is no mention of any casualties.
The 4 year old Lewis, (born Norwich), is recorded on the 1901 census at 63 Wellington Road in the Parish of St Thomas. This is the household of his parents, Herbert, (aged 33 and a “Setter out of Joinery” from Norwich), and Eva, (aged 28 and from Norwich).
Harris C T
Name: HARRIS Initials: C T
Rank: Company Quartermaster Serjeant
Regiment: Norfolk Regiment
Unit Text: 2nd Bn.
Age: 28
Date of Death: 30/09/1916
Service No: 6255
Additional information: Son of William and Emily Harris, of Norwich.
Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: XXI. W. 36. Cemetery: BAGHDAD (NORTH GATE) WAR CEMETERY
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=633722
No match on Norlink
The Great War Roll of Honour lists this man as Charles T. Harris, and his rank as Acting Sergeant.
The 13 year old Charles, (born Norwich), is recorded on the 1901 census at 150 Marlborough Road, in the parish of St James. This is the household of his parents, William, (aged 38 and a Brewers Servant from Norwich), and Emily, (aged 39 and from Norfolk). Their other children are:-
Alice………………aged 2.………….born Norwich
Arthur……………..aged 5.………….born Norwich
Elsie……………….aged u/1.……….born Norwich
Emily………………aged 18.………..born Norwich……Tailoress
Florence……………aged 17.……….born Norwich…….Tailoress
Gertrude……………aged 9.…………born Norwich
When war was declared Turkey decided to join in on the German side and this was to lead to three costly campaigns for the British, Gallipoli, Palestine and Mesopotamia. The first of these was the Mesopotamian campaign and it was launched in November 1914 from India. The Ottoman Turks at this time controlled much of the Middle East including modern day Israel, Syria, Jordan, Saudi Arabia and Iraq. The British intention was to come ashore in Mesopotamia (modern day Iraq) and to secure the oilfields around Basra before making any further exploitation. All the troops from this operation were drawn from India and 2nd Norfolks were one of these battalions. They were part of 6 (Indian ) Division that started to come ashore on the Faw peninsular on 6th November 1914. A division of the Indian army at this time was composed of both British and Indian personnel, the majority being Indian. Horace is recorded as having come ashore on 15th November after which the battalion was involved in several battles including the Occupation of Basra on 22nd November. From Basra the British pushed north along the Shat-al Arab waterway to Qurna which was at the confluence of the Tigris and Euphrates rivers and therefore a place of significant strategic importance. The British soldier found conditions in Mesopotamia very uncomfortable with searing heat, flies and, in the early stages, heavy rain that turned everything into a sea of mud. These conditions brought on sickness which, together with battle casualties, severely depleted some units.
With the Turks falling back everywhere the British commander decided to continue the advance in the hope of fomenting a general arab revolt against the Turks. The Norfolk’s division advanced along the Tigris and captured the towns of al Amara and Kut before pausing. All along the advance they had been getting further and further from their supply base at Basra and as they could only effectively be re-supplied by river their position in this respect became serious. However, with Baghdad as the prize Townsend, the British commander, decided to press on and they advanced along the river to a point some 25 miles from Baghdad at Cstesiphon where the Turks roundly beat the British and forced them to withdraw back to Kut. The Turks pursued them and besieged the town from 6th December 1915. Despite two costly relief efforts the garrison was forced to surrender on 29th April 1916, 146 days after they had withdrawn there.
The garrison of approximately 3000 British and 6000 Indians surrendered and began their long march into captivity in Turkey.
Many prisoners died on the long march north and the conditions at that time of year would have been unbearable and the Turks did not have a good humanitarian record toward prisoners.
www.oldbuckenham-pri.norfolk.procms.co.uk/pages/viewpage....
The following newspaper report appeared after letters were received from prisoners.
THE 2nd NORFOLKS PRISONERS OF WAR
To the Editor:
Dear Sir
May I correct one statement in the very interesting letter re 2nd Norfolk Regiment prisoners published in your paper to-day. The writer says that because Quartermaster-Sergeant Niblock had written from Affion Kara Hissar, probably the whole regiment are there. There are only 22 of the men at Affion Kara Hissar. This I have in a letter from an officer in that camp last week. As a matter of fact the men are scattered all over Asia Minor. So far we know the addresses of between 80 to 90 of them. These are at Bilemedix, Airan, Yarbachi Bagdadbaull, Yosgad, Castamouni, Tamara, Affion Kara Hissar and Brussa. By far the biggest number of these are at Yarbachi.
Yours faithfully,
Frances W. Burton
Secretary, Norfolk Regiment Prisoners of War Help Organisation.
www.stephen-stratford.co.uk/pte_wilby.htm
After the war ended. The War Graves Commission gathered the bodies of PoW’s from all over the region and re-interred them at the Baghdad North Gate Cemetery.
www.cwgc.org/search/cemetery_details.aspx?cemetery=57303&...
Holmes G H
Too many potential matches on CWGC
However Norlink has a Herbert Holmes of the 15th Royal Irish Rifles. There are no additional notes
norlink.norfolk.gov.uk/02_Catalogue/02_013_PictureTitleIn...
Name: HOLMES, HERBERT
Rank: Lance Corporal
Regiment: Royal Irish Rifles
Unit Text: 15th Bn.
Secondary Regiment: Norfolk Regiment Secondary Unit Text: formerly (5575)
Age: 21 Date of Death: 21/03/1918
Service No: 41421
Additional information: Son of Henry Alfred and Ann Holmes, of 82, Trafalgar St., Lakenham, Norwich.
Grave/Memorial Reference: Panel 74 to 76. Memorial: POZIERES MEMORIAL
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=1582798
No obvious G H Holmes with a Norwich connection on the 1901 census. Of the 6 GH Holmes listed on the CWGC database, only one can be ruled out on the grounds of the additional information.
If we look for details of Herbert on the 1901 census, we find him, aged 4 and born Norwich, recorded at 82 Trafalgar Steet, in the parish of St Marks, New Lakenham. This is the household of his parents, Henry A, (aged 34 and a Hairdresser from Norwich), and Ann, (aged 31 and from Norwich). Their other children are:-
Arthur…………..aged 8.………….born Norwich
Ernest R………..aged 1.………….born Norwich
On 21 March 1918, Second Lieutenant Edward de Wind of the 15th. Battalion, Royal Irish Rifles, who was from Ballycastle, County Down, was awarded the Victoria Cross for holding a strategically important post for 7 hours, repelling repeated attacks until he was killed
homepage.eircom.net/~tipperaryfame/ririfles.htm
It was during the First Battle of the Somme on 21 March 1918, at the Racecourse Redoubt, near Groagie, France, that for seven hours, Second Lieutenant De Wind held this important post and though twice wounded and practically single-handed, he maintained his position until another section could be sent to his help.
On two occasions, with two NCOs only, he got out on top under heavy machine-gun and rifle fire and cleared the enemy out of the trench, killing many of them. He continued to repel attack after attack until he was mortally wounded and collapsed.
www.army.mod.uk/infantry/regiments/6221.aspx
The 36th (Ulster) Division
Following the battles of the Somme, Messines and Cambrai the Ulster Division found itself badly under its established strength.
The Division's five kilometre front lent itself well to defence with a series of low ridges and valleys opposite St Quentin. On the first ridge behind the front line were three redoubts: Boadicea (on the left), Racecourse and Jeanne d'Arc. Behind them in the Battle Zone were three more: Ricardo, Quarry and Station.
Like all of the Divisions that had been moved into the area there was a lot more work to do than simply build redoubts and dig trenches. Roads and communications systems had to be prepared or improved; munitions depots established; everything was labour intensive and the manpower was in short supply.
On the opening day of the German offensive the Battle Zone trenches in some places were still only knee deep.
Racecourse Redoubt - 15th Royal Irish Rifles
At the village of Grugies 2nd Lieutenant Edmund de Wind a former soldier in the Canadian Infantry commanded the small garrison at Racecourse Redoubt.
The Germans were pressing westwards and the redoubt soon came under severe pressure. De Wind and his men held their own until the early afternoon when finally de Wind was killed. His body was never found and he is commemorated on the Pozières Memorial.
De Wind would be awarded the Victoria Cross for his valour but only after the war had ended and witnesses came home from captivity. He is also commemorated in his home town of Comber in County Down, and by Mount de Wind in his adopted Alberta, Canada.
The London Gazette dated 13th May 1919
For most conspicuous bravery and self-sacrifice on the 21st March 1918, at the Race Course Redoubt, near Grugies. For seven hours he held this most important post, and though twice wounded and practically single-handed, he maintained his position until another section could be got to his help. On two occasions, with two NCOs only, he got out on top under heavy machine gun and rifle fire, and cleared the enemy out of the trench, killing many. He continued to repel attack after attack until he was mortally wounded and collapsed. His valour, self-sacrifice and example were of the highest order.
War Diary of the 15th Bn Royal Irish Rifles: 21/22nd March 1918
The diary now deals with the movements of the Battalion details which consisted of transport, personnel of quartermaster's stores, personnel left out of action, other ranks arriving back from leave, from courses and from hospital, together with a draft of 100 other ranks which arrived today. The battalion itself was gone, killed wounded and prisoners. Captain PM Miller MC commanded the little party.
www.webmatters.net/france/ww1_kaiser_05.htm
Hopkins L
No obvious match on the CWGC database
No match on Norlink
No obvious match for a L Hopkins on either the 1901 or 1911 census with a Norwich connection.
Howes P V
Only P V Howes on the CWGC database
Name: HOWES Initials: P V
Rank: Private
Regiment: Norfolk Regiment
Unit Text: 8th Bn.
Date of Death: 25/04/1918
Service No: 43231
Grave/Memorial Reference: VI. D. 8. Cemetery: BOUCHOIR NEW BRITISH CEMETERY
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=308517
No match on Norlink
The Great War Roll of Honour lists this soldier as Percy V.
Three possibles on the 1901 census, all of whom have no middle initial \ name on the 1911 census.
Percy, (aged 3) born Norwich, at 8 Lewis Street, Parish St John the Baptist & All Saints, parents James & Susannah
Percy R, (aged 4) born Norwich, at 58 Grant Street, Parish St Bartholomew, parents William & Mary
Percy, (aged 8), born Norwich, at near Holt Road, Hellesdon, parents Harry & Riobina (??)
Bouchoir New British Cemetery
The village of Bouchoir passed into German hands on 27 March 1918 but was recovered by the 8th Canadian Infantry Brigade on 9 August 1918. The New British Cemetery was made after the Armistice when graves were brought there from several small Commonwealth cemeteries and from the battlefields round Bouchoir and south of the village. Almost all date from March, April or August 1918
www.cwgc.org/search/cemetery_details.aspx?cemetery=31900&...
The 8th Battalion had officially ceased to exist by the time of the German Spring Ofensive, with men from the Battalion being allocated to either the 7th or 9th . However, as this only preceded the first phase of the German Spring offensive by a few weeks, its is perhaps not surprising that the official paperwork hadn’t caught up by the time of the second phase, when decimated British & Commonwealth units from the earlier attack were moved into a “quiet” sector, only to find it was the very place planned for the next German assault.
In one memoir there is talk of ex-8th Battalion men turning up as replacements for the London Regiment Battalion at the height of the second German offensive.
hastang.co.uk/pdf/Scouting%20on%20the%20Somme.pdf
Martin F
Too many without further information
No match on Norlink
Possibles from the 1901 Census
Frederick, (aged 4) born Norwich, at St Benedicts Back Lane, Parish of St Benedict, parents Benjamin & Laura
Frederick, (aged 15 - Brushmaker), born Southrepps, at 155 Armes Street. Parish of St Bartholomew, parents - only mother Elizabeth listed.
Frank I (aged 23 Grocers Assistant) born Warley Essex at 53 Pembroke Road, parish of St Thomas, married to Gertrude, father of Amy.
Possible
Name: MARTIN Initials: F E
Rank: Corporal
Regiment: Royal Berkshire Regiment
Unit Text: Depot Bn.
Date of Death: 15/01/1919
Service No: 11513
Grave/Memorial Reference: 54. 178. Cemetery: NORWICH CEMETERY, Norfolk
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=2803226
But 180 other possibles to a lesser degree.
Panel 2 - to the right of the entrance doors
Albert Edward Jay******************************************************
Name: JAY, ALBERT EDWARD
Rank: Lance Corporal
Regiment: Norfolk Regiment
Unit Text: 7th Bn.
Age: 27
Date of Death: 27/03/1918
Service No: 15107
Additional information: Son of Mrs. Jay, of 107, Argyle St., Wilderness Terrace, King St., Norwich, and the late Joseph Jay.
Memorial Reference: Panel 23. Memorial: POZIERES MEMORIAL
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=1583358
Lance Corporal Albert Edward Jay, 7th Norfolk Regiment, can be seen on Norlink here
norlink.norfolk.gov.uk/02_Catalogue/02_013_PictureTitleIn...
Accompanying notes read:-
Lance Corporal Jay was born on 24th May 1890 at 107, Wilderness Terrace, King Street, Norwich, the son of Joseph Jay. He enlisted on 1st September 1914, and was killed on 27th March 1918
The 10 year old Albert, born Norwich, is recorded on the 1901 census at 107 Wilderness, King Street Norwich, in the Parish of St Peter Southgate. This is the household of his parents, Joseph, (aged 43 and a Wherryman on River from Norwich) and Gertrude, (aged 40 and from Ditchingham, Suffolk). Their other children are:-
Elsie…………aged 5.………….born Norwich
Joseph……….aged 17.…………born Norwich….Engineer on Brass Co(?)
Louis………..aged 16.………….born Norwich…same as above
Battalion War Diary 27th March.
NB there is a note at the end of the March entries.
The original diary was destroyed by shell fire while being carried back from Brigade HQ to a place of safety on 27th March. The diary had therefore to be written up from such information and documents as were available.
(The diary was written in thick pencil, rather than typed, so difficult to make out some of the words - apologies if I’ve mis-transcribed).
At 4am Battn. HQ moved back to the bank on the crest behind the Northants. From then onwards, this position was heavily shelled and was also swept by machine gun fire. During the morning the right flank retired, but the enemy did not press his attack, and the machine gun fire slackened somewhat. Lt.Col. Rees took out about 40 men and re-established this line. Much trouble was experienced at this time by M.G fire from hostile aeroplanes. Our right flank was now in the air and no information could be obtained as to the position of the Suffolk Regt. A Lewis Gun was posted on the road about 100x to our right. A party was sent out to hold the road between this section and our line bit could not maintain its position owing to artillery fire. Later, Captain Weaver (?) and RSM Golden (?) went out about 400x to their right flank and established a post there.
At about 11am, the enemy were seen advancing in large numbers into AVELUY. It appeared therefore that both our flanks were in the air. Lt.Colonel Rees therefore gave the command for the battalion and the Northants and the Essex Regt companies to withdraw in waves to the crest in rear with our left on the Bourgincourt - Aveluy Road. The withdrawal was carried out with great difficulty through a heavy artillery and machine gun barrage. It was found most difficult to form a new line on the crest but a strong point was established in the forked sunken road just south of the Aveluy - Bourgincourt Road. Here there were Lt.Col.Rees, Captain Lapply(?), Sec.Lieut. Brumbley, two M G officers with their machine guns and about 150 men. Later a few re-enforcements under Captain Weaver(?), Lieut. Hesilton(?), 2nd :Lts Lark and Philips(?) and Capt. Soames RAMC arrived and Captain, The Rev. Richards also kept in touch with the post. The position became precarious during the afternoon as the enemy established machine guns enfilading the road and were also working round our left flank. Captain Lapply(?) therefore went back to Bde HQ for instructions. Brigade said that the post was to be held if possible and sent up three Vickers Guns to assist. These never arrived, however. At dusk, the enemy had almost entirely surrounded the post and eventually rushed it. Lt.Col Rees was by this time wounded and was taken prisoner together with Capt Soames who had remained with him. Most of the garrison were however able to withdraw. Captain Lapply(?) had by this time reached the line held by the Northants in the rear of the post and hearing that it was hard pressed had taken up two platoons to reinforce. He met the garrison and put them in position on the right flank of the Northants which was then in the air.
Geoffrey Gilbert King*************************************************************
Name: KING, GILBERT GEOFFREY
Rank: Private
Regiment: Norfolk Regiment
Unit Text: 12th (Norfolk Yeomanry) Bn.
Age: 24
Date of Death: 31/10/1917
Service No: 320456
Additional information: Son of Robert and Charlotte A. King, of Grove Walk, Norwich. Native of Great Plumstead, Norwich.
Grave/Memorial Reference: P. 89. Cemetery: BEERSHEBA WAR CEMETERY
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=644804
No match on Norlink
The 8 year old Gilbert G, born Great Plumstead, was recorded on the 1901 census at Abbots Farm, Stoke Holy Cross. This is the household of his parents, Robert, (aged 53 and a Farmer from Swardeston) and Charlotte A., (aged 50 and quite specifically from King Street, Norwich !), Their other children are:-
Arthur Edward………….aged 22.…………..born Gt Plumstead……….Farmers Son
Daisy Marion……………aged 19.………….born Gt Plumstead
Dorothy E……………….aged 13.…………..born Gt Plumstead
The household also has an Ethel Louisa King, aged 14 and from Stoke Holy Cross, but her relationship to the Head of the Household is shown only as servant, as is that of another 13 year old girl from Stoke Holy Cross, Ellen Taylor.
The attack on Beersheba by Chetwode's XX Corps commenced at 5.55am on 31 October when the artillery, more than 100 field guns and howitzers, commenced bombarding the Ottoman trenches. Twenty of the heavy guns were engaged in counter-battery work against the enemy artillery, which was operated by Austrian gunners.
The first infantry went in at 8.30am to capture some Ottoman outposts. The main attack of four infantry brigades began at 12.15pm. They quickly reached all their initial objectives and so were in position for the main assault on the township to coincide with the light horse and New Zealanders. It was at this point that the infantry commanders saw that the way to Beersheba was clear and asked for permission to carry the attack through to the town. Allenby refused permission and ordered the infantry to remain in their current positions, as the task had been specifically assigned to the Desert Mounted Corps.
The heaviest Allied losses were suffered by the British infantry of XX Corps, which lost 116 killed in action
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_Beersheba_(1917)
(12th Norfolks were part of 74th (Yeomanry) Division, which in turn was part of XX Corps.)
Herbert Laight*************************************************************
Possibly Name: LAIGHT Initials: H
Rank: Private
Regiment/Service: Non Combatant Corps
Unit Text: 1st Eastern Coy.
Age: 33
Date of Death: 27/11/1918
Service No: 151 Additional information: Son of William and Ellen Laight, of Acle, Norfolk.
Grave/Memorial Reference: LI. C. 22. Cemetery: ETAPLES MILITARY CEMETERY
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=503059
No likely matches on the Military Genealogy site
No match on Norlink
The 1901 Census has the 15 year old Herbert living at The Post office, The Street, Acle, the village of his birth. This is the household of his parents, William, (age 55 and a Sub-Postmaster and Shopkeeper from Lincoln), and Ellen, (aged 54, a shopkeeper and from Acle). Also with them are:
Edward……………..age 13.…………..born Acle
Ella…………………age 17.…………..born Acle……….Post Office assistant
Emma………………age 20.………….born Acle……….Post Office assistant
Ethel………………..age 21.………….born Acle……….Post Office clerk
Florence……………age 27.………….born Acle……….Shop assistant
Ralph………………age 9.……………born Acle
Ruth……………….age 24.…………..born Acle……….Post office Clerk
Unwilling soldiers
3,400 Cos (Consciencious Objectors) accepted call-up into the Non-Combatant Corps (NCC) or the Royal Army Medical Corps (RAMC) as non-combatants. The NCC (the 'No-Courage Corps' as the press rudely called it) was set up in March 1916, part of the army and run by its regular officers. The COs assigned to it were army privates, wore army uniforms and were subject to army discipline, but didn't carry weapons or take part in battle. Their duties were mainly to provide physical labour (building, cleaning, loading and unloading anything except munitions) in support of the military.
The NCC may have been a shock to the COs who agreed to join it. But for the absolutists and alternativists who were forcibly enlisted into the NCC it was much worse. They immediately faced the question of whether to agree to wearing uniform. The men who decided to refuse were formally charged and court-martialled. Often they were treated harshly, bullied, deprived of basic needs and rights, and imprisoned in inhumane conditions. So were the men who refused to perform duties like handling munitions or building rifle ranges. Some broke down, physically or mentally, as a result of their ill-ill-treatment.
www.ppu.org.uk/learn/infodocs/cos/st_co_wwone1.html
This report in the Hansard shows some of the dilemmas faced by individual conscientious objectors serving in the Corps.
hansard.millbanksystems.com/commons/1918/mar/06/non-comba...
Herbert is remembered on the Acle War Memorial
www.flickr.com/photos/43688219@N00/4009143202/
William Stephen Madgett********************************************************
Name: MADGETT, WILLIAM STEPHEN
Rank: Private
Regiment: Royal Fusiliers
Unit Text: 26th Bn.
Age: 24
Date of Death: 18/04/1918
Service No: 7090
Additional information: Son of Stephen and Susan Elizabeth Gurney Madgett, of 51, Old Palace Rd., Norwich.
Grave/Memorial Reference: II. B. 2. Cemetery: LINDENHOEK CHALET MILITARY CEMETERY
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=449342
A Lance Corporal William Stephen Madgett, 21st Royal Fusiliers, can be seen on Norlink here
norlink.norfolk.gov.uk/02_Catalogue/02_013_PictureTitleIn...
Accompanying notes read
Lance Corporal Madgett was born in Norwich on 29th August 1893, and educated at the Presbyterian School. He worked as a clerk for the Norwich Union Fire Office, enlisting in May 1915. He was killed in action south-west of Ypres on 18th April 1918
The Aviva Roll of Honour has the same picture with the notes that he was appointed 1908. Claims clerk. Played tennis and football in society teams.
www.aviva.com/about-us/heritage/world-war-one/roll-of-hon...
The 7 year old William S Madgett, (born Norwich), was recorded on the 1901 census at 11 Helena Road, in the Parish of St Thomas. This was the household of his parents Stephen, (aged 36 and a Timber Merchants Foreman from Norwich), and Susan E F, (aged 35 and from Peasenhall, Suffolk). Their other children are:-
Frederick H…………..aged 4.……….born Norwich
James E J…………….aged 3.……….born Norwich
Making up the household his William widowed paternal grandmother - Julia H, (aged 71 and from Norwich).
The Norlink picture shows him as part of the 21st Battalion Royal Fusiliers, but this was disbanded in 1916. I can’t find any record of either the 26th Battalion or the 41st Division of which it was part being involved in the second phase of the German Spring Offensive that threatened to push the British back to the Channel Ports
Gerald Ernest Morse*********************************************************
No match on Norlink
Military Genealogy has two soldiers called Gerald Ernest, but neither has place of birth or residence shown.
From the CWGC database, there appears to be only one likely individual
Second Lieutenant G E Morse, 2nd Squadron RFC who died 31/10/1917 (no additional details)
www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=60863
(On the Great War Roll of Honour he is listed as Royal Welsh Fusiliers T F (Territorial Force?) and RFC.
There is not another soldier listed on the CWGC database as a Gerald, and all the individuals shown there as G Morse can be identified from the Great War Roll of Honour as George. As the Miltary Genealogy site only lists Army men who died either in a Theatre of War of directly from injuries related to that service, I’m at a loss to identify who the other Gerald Ernest is.
Of course the Gerald Ernest commemorated here could have been a sailor or served in the Armed Forces of another country.
However there is a 2nd Lieutenant Gerald Ernest Morse commemorated on the Eaton, Norwich War Memorial.
www.flickr.com/photos/43688219@N00/3445748212/
The only Gerald Morse listed on the 1901 Census was 5 years old, had been born in Middlesex and now resided at 80 Goldington Avenue, Bedford. However, a high-level search of the 1911 Census confirms that while that individual is still residing in Bedford, (and is a Gerald Frank), there is a Gerald Ernest age 13, living in Norwich. However, another look at the 1901 Census doesn’t throw up any likely members of the Morse family with any connection by birth or residence with the West side of Norwich.
There’s a bit more about 2 Squadron at this time on the Squadron’s web-site
www.twosqnassoc.co.uk/pages/bosses/snow.htm
This indicates that 2 Squadron were flying Armstrong Whitworth FK8’s at the time of Gerald’s death.
I can’t find any details of Gerald Morse’s death, but at least one German Pilot claimed an AWFK8 destroyed on this day -
At 11.30 on the 31st, Julius Buckler of Jasta 17 has a claim for an “AWFK8” at La Basee, France. (La Bassee I understand is about 5 miles east of Bethune, where Gerald was buried.
www.theaerodrome.com/aces/germany/buckler.php
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Armstrong_Whitworth_F.K.8
William Henry Norman*****************************************************
No match on Norlink
No obvious match on CWGC
Military Genealogy does however list a William Henry who was born Norwich.
The Genes Reunited transcription of the 1911 census for England and Wales has a Henry Norman, born Norwich circa 1880, who was recorded in the Norwich District. The same individual was recorded on the 1901 census as William H., aged 21, and living at 2 Green Hills Road, Norwich. He was employed on own account as an Ironmonger. This was the household of his parents, William F, (aged 57 and a Foreman in Silk ??? from Norwich) and Anna A, (aged 53 and from Norwich). Their other children are :-
Ellen M………….aged 26.………born Norwich……..Domestic at Home
Emma A…………aged 27.………born Norwich……..Tailoress
Mary A………….aged 25.……….born Norwich……..School Board Teacher
Going back to the CWGC database, there is a William Henry of the right age, a Sergeant in the RAMC - however in the additional information it states he has an MA from “Cantab“, which is hard to square with a 21 year old Iron Monger - but not impossible.
www.cwgc.org/search/SearchResults.aspx?surname=Norman&...
Otherwise, if we discount the possibility of individuals lying about their age, that reduces us to four possible for whom there is no additional information and no age recorded.
RMLI man, confirmed as a William H
www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=313838
Lance Corporal in the South Wales Borderers with wife in Southend on Sea
www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=332686
Royal Navy Stoker
www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=473208
Private in the Royal West Kents, (confirmed from the Great Roll of Honour as a William H G)
www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=629680
Sydney Durrant Page********************************************************
Name: PAGE, SYDNEY DURRANT
Rank: Captain
Regiment: Norfolk Regiment
Unit Text: 1st/4th Bn.
Age: 44
Date of Death: 19/04/1917
Additional information: Son of John J. G. Page, of "The Elms," Heigham Grove, Norwich.
Grave/Memorial Reference: XXIII. C. 6. Cemetery: GAZA WAR CEMETERY
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=651000
Captain Page can be seen on Norlink here in a picture taken in 1915
norlink.norfolk.gov.uk/02_Catalogue/02_013_PictureTitleIn...
The accompanying notes read The son of Mr. & Mrs. J.J.G. Page of Norwich, Captain Page was killed in action in 1917
Sydney, born 17th February 1873, had apparently played Cricket for Norfolk, between 1895 and 1909 as a middle order batsman.
cricketarchive.com/Archive/Players/127/127176/127176.html
The 28 year old, Sydney D., born Norwich and employed as an Accountant, is recorded on the 1901 census as single and living at Heigham Grove, Norwich. This is the household of his patents, John J G, (aged 64 and a ???(poss.Furniture) Manufacturer from Norwich) and Emily E, (aged 56 and from Norwich). Their other children living with them are:-
Edith E………………….aged 35.…………born Norwich
Louis G…………………aged 21.…………born Norwich……..Accountant
Minnie J…………………aged 32.…………born Norwich
Reginald J……………….aged 30.…………born Norwich……Furniture Manufacturer
They also have two live in servants.
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
(Page 45)The second stage of the attack, after a days work on trenches and dug-outs, went as might be expected, considering it was made by soldiers walking over open ground towards well entrenched and protected men armed with rifles and machine guns. An artillery bombardment of an hour or so, including the gas shells, and including fire from the ships at sea off Gaza, seems to have woken up the Turks rather than intimidated them - there was still insufficient British artillery to provide a really serious bombardment. The Turks did not actually notice the gas shells: higher air temperature seems to have encouraged rapid evaporation.
The 54th Division set-off behind this bombardment to attack the entrenchments of the Turkish 53rd Division along the Beersheba Road.
(Page 49) From Brigade HQ, Lieutenant Buxton was sent forward to find out what was happening.
(Page 50) (He subsequently reported on the attack on the redoubt) “held it for some time until the ammunition was spent. No support came and so those that did not get away, sixty in all, were captured in the Turkish counter-attack. My second tank, under Captain Carr, had done well in getting into the redoubt. The first tank had had a direct hit and was burning. It was obvious that our attack here had failed and most of our men had been killed. So I waited a bit longer, and when things were a shade quieter, I got out of my shell hole and ran back over the rise. There I came upon about 40 men of our brigade of all regiments, Major Marsh who was O C 8th Hants was there and Lieutenant Wharton of the 4th Norfolks. These men where just stragglers and all collected there. We decided it was no good going on then, so we started to dig ourselves in. This was all quite early in the morning - about 9. Marsh had a telephone line so I phoned back to Brigade HQ and gave them all the news.
(Page 51). There were a lot of dead men and wounded all round us. Some of the latter we got behind our lines, in case the Turks tried a counter -attack, We were about forty men and one Lewis Gun, and no-one on our left or right for several hundred yards. The place we were holding was the top of a rounded hillock. The Turks kept us under pretty good machine gun fire all day. Marsh and I lay in a rifle pit and ate dates and biscuits for a bit. We allowed no firing, as we wished to keep our ammunition in case of a counter attack.
About 4 in the afternoon the 5th Suffolks were sent up to support us and consolidate the position we held. This was really a great relief. About seven the Brigadier came out after dusk and saw the place. He ordered us to retire during the night right back to our starting point, for it would not have been possible to hold this advanced position as long as there was no-one on our flanks at all”
The strongpoint from now on was called Tank Redoubt.
This was an attack on a single strongpoint and a strectch of trenches little over a mile long, by four battalions. It had made no progress after being expelled from the strongpoint, and had only reached so far because of the bravery of the tank crew, (three men). The last reserve of the 163rd Brigade, the 5th Suffolks, which was at last sent forward, as Buxton noted with relief, late in the afternoon. With no more troops available, the brigadier had no option but to pull all the survivors back.
Extracts from “The Battle for Palestine 1917” by John D. Grainger
books.google.co.uk/books?id=3SVvryoR2A0C&pg=PA50&...
Herbert Horace Pond*******************************************************
Probably - (only HH Pond on the CWGC database)
Name: POND, HERBERT HORACE
Rank: Private
Regiment: Norfolk Regiment
Unit Text: 1st/4th Bn.
Date of Death: 19/04/1917
Service No: 200585
Memorial Reference: Panels 12 to 15. Memorial: JERUSALEM MEMORIAL
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=1646700
No match on Norlink
The Great War Roll of Honour lists Private 200585 of the Norfolk Regiment as a Herbert H Pond.
The 5 year old Herbert H., born Norwich, is recorded on the 1901 census at 24 Bishop Bridge Road. This is the household of his parents, Herbert J. (aged 29 and a Boot Maker from Norwich) and Edith H, (aged 29 and from Norwich). Herbert’s paternal grandfather, the 70 year widower James Pond, (aged 70 and a Boot Maker from Swanton Morley) also lives with them and they have a live-in servant.
See Sydney Page for details of the Battalions actions on this day.
Alec James Porter*************************************************************
Name: PORTER, ALEC JAMES
Rank: Second Lieutenant
Regiment: Norfolk Regiment
Unit Text: 1st Bn.
Age: 22
Date of Death: 19/04/1917
Additional information: Son of Thomas and Agnes Porter, of 211, Unthank Rd., Norwich, Norfolk.
Memorial Reference: Panels 12 to 15. Memorial: JERUSALEM MEMORIAL
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=1646708
No match on Norlink
No obvious match for a Alec, James, Thomas or Agnes on the 1901 Census.
Although 2nd Lt Porter is shown as the 1st Battalion, the fact that he is remembered on the Jerusalem memorial would indicate he was either a member of, or on detachment to, either the 1st/4th or 1st/5th Battalions who were serving in Palestine.
See Sydney Page for details of the actions of the 1/4th Battalion on this day, which was nearly identical as the 1/5th .
Oliver Ventrice Porter************************************************************
Name: PORTER Initials: O V
Rank: Private
Regiment: Northamptonshire Regiment
Unit Text: 1st Bn.
Date of Death: 18/10/1918
Service No: 201828
Grave/Memorial Reference: Fesmy Mil. Cem. Mem. 2. Cemetery: ST. SOUPLET BRITISH CEMETERY
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=320927
A picture of Oliver Ventris Porter, 1st Northamptonshire Regiment, taken in 1917, can be seen here
norlink.norfolk.gov.uk/02_Catalogue/02_013_PictureTitleIn...
The accompanying notes read
Private Porter was born in Norwich on 18th March 1890, the son of George Thompson Porter. He enlisted in May 1916, and died of wounds on 17th October 1918 at Fesney, France
The 11 year old Oliver V., born Norwich, is recorded on the 1901 census at 6 Old Palace Road. This is the household of his parents, George T, (aged 54 and a Super Life Fire & Accident Insurance Company Agent from Great Bardfield, Essex) and Mary E. (aged 32 and from Norwich). Given the age of one of the children, I’m assuming Mary is a second wife.
Making up the household are:-
Albert C…………..aged 25,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,born Reading, Berks…….Commercial Clerk
Ernest E…………..aged 8.…………born Norwich
Percy O…………….aged 7.…………born Norwich
La Vallee-Mulatre is a village about 11 kilometres south of Le Cateau, the Cemetery is on the south-western side of the village.
La Vallee-Mulatre was captured by the 1st Northants on the 17th October, 1918.
www.ww1cemeteries.com/ww1frenchcemeteries/lavalleemulatre...
Alfred James Sampson**********************************************************
Name: SAMPSON, ALFRED JAMES
Kingdom Rank: Serjeant
Service: Royal Flying Corps
Unit Text: 14th Sqdn.
Age: 33
Date of Death: 01/12/1917
Service No: 8303
Additional information: Son of James Monk Sampson and Alice Ann Sampson; husband of Evelyn Selina Sampson, of 39, College Rd., Norwich. Born at Norwich.
Grave/Memorial Reference: XXXII. A. 7. Cemetery: GAZA WAR CEMETERY
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=651241
Alfred can be seen on Norlink here
norlink.norfolk.gov.uk/02_Catalogue/02_013_PictureTitleIn...
The accompanying notes read
Sergeant Sampson was born on 20th December 1883 in Norwich, the son of Mr. and Mrs. J.M. Sampson of 7, Waverley Road, Norwich. He enlisted on 6th September 1915, and he went to Egypt in November 1915. He was involved in the Palestine advance. On 29th November 1917 he was severely wounded by a bomb during an enemy air raid, and died from his wounds in Alexandria on 1st December 1917
The 17 year old Alfred J, born Norwich is recorded on the 1901 census as the Head of the Household at a Dwelling on Bull Street, Holt. He is a single man, working as a Sorting Clerk and Telegraphist for the Post Office. There is no obvious match for Alfred on the Genes Reunited transcription of the 1891 census for England and Wales..
William Henry Sargent************************************************************
Possibly
Name: SARGENT, WILLIAM HENRY
Rank: Private
Regiment: Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers
Unit Text: "B" Coy. 1st Bn.
Age: 26
Date of Death: 01/07/1916
Service No: 9568
Additional information: Son of the late George Edwin Thomas Sargent and Millicent Sargent.
Memorial Reference: Pier and Face 4 D and 5 B. Memorial: THIEPVAL MEMORIAL
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=811228
No match on Norlink
There is no obvious match for a William Sargent on either the 1901 or 1911 census transcriptions - none of the right age with a Norfolk connection, none on the 1901 census anywhere with a mother called Millicent,
No Millicents at all on the 1901 census, and only one old enough to have been his mother on the 1911 census.
The Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers fared scarcely better than the South Wales Borderers and in terms of casualties, worse. Their War Diary (the entry for 1 July is very brief and tersely written and does not contain timings of events) indicates that 'Immediately our lines appeared on the parapets the enemy brought heavy machine gun cross fire to bear.' None of the Inniskilling Fusiliers were 'able to gain further ground than the enemy's wires.' They suffered 568 casualties.
www.westernfrontassociation.com/great-war-on-land/61-batt...
Frederic Noel Scarles**********************************************************
Name: SCARLES, FREDERICK NOEL
Rank: Air Mechanic 2nd Class
Service: Royal Naval Air Service
Unit Text: H.M.S. "Daedolus."
Age: 19
Date of Death: 10/12/1917
Service No: F/13151
Additional information: Son of W. T. and Mary Scarles, of 157, Queen's Rd., Norwich. Memorial Reference: 25. Memorial: CHATHAM NAVAL MEMORIAL
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=3053564
Frederick can be seen on Norlink here
norlink.norfolk.gov.uk/02_Catalogue/02_013_PictureTitleIn...
Accompanying notes read
Scarles was born on 26th December 1899. He enlisted in April 1916 and died at sea 10th December 1917
Lost of Seaplane N1636 (1917) & Court of Enquiry
Crashed into US ship landing Whitsand Bay, damaged 30.10.17...Sank while being salved by drifter ST IVES BAY 10.12.17 (FSL SG Smith picked up & AM2 FN Scarles missing
- in view of the circumstances it is submitted that no further action be taken in connection with the censure on Flight Commander JS Mills DSC
7258th letter of the Naval Law division for 1917
1914-1918.invisionzone.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=84722
His service record can be seen there, although you would need to be a forum member to see it.
Summary of the details.
He was born 26th December 1898, Norwich. His occupation was Chemists Apprentice.
He was engaged from the 26th December 1916, his 18th birthday. He was 5 feet 8 inches, with dark brown hair, grey eyes and a “fresh” complexion.
His character was shown as Very Good, and his ability Satisfactory. After initial training he was posted to Cranwell in April 1917, presumably for Flying Training, moving on in May to HMS Riviera.
(HMS Riviera was a cross-channel steamer that was taken over by the Royal Navy on 11 August 1914, and in two days converted into a seaplane carrier. This was a fairly simple conversion, involving fitting cranes to the ship and equipping it with a canvas hanger to protect the seaplanes. The Riviera was part of the Dover Patrol from 1915 until the end of the war. This was an active posting, close to German bases in Belgium.)
www.historyofwar.org/articles/weapons_HMS_Riviera.html
On the 2nd December 1917, he was posted, the RNAS air station at Lee on Solent, HMS Daedalus. 8 days later he would be dead.
The craft he was in was a Short Seaplane.
www.airforce.forces.gc.ca/v2/equip/hst/shortsea-eng.asp
A picture of the plane is available from a commercial web-site where the plane is described as a Short 184
www.ajjcollection.co.uk/RAF3.HTM
There was some question over whether the Flight Leader was cupable for sending out an inexperienced Pilot in bad weather and heavy seas which led to the death of the airmen.
1914-1918.invisionzone.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=38874
The 2 year old Fred N., born Norwich, was recorded on the 1901 census at 157 Queens Road. This was the household of his parents, William T. (aged 42 and a Builder from Norwich), and Mary, (aged 44 and from Norwich). Their other children are:-
Constance A………….aged 16.………….born Norwich…..Typist
Edith M……………….aged 18.…………born Norwich…..Typist
Edward F……………..aged 5.………….born Norwich
Wilfred L………………aged 13.………..born Norwich…(see below for details)
Wilfred Langley Scarles***********************************************************
Name: SCARLES Initials: W L
Rank: Able Seaman
Service: Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve
Unit Text: Hawke Bn. R.N. Div.
Age: 31
Date of Death: 22/01/1918
Service No: R/1496
Additional information: Son of William and Mary Scarles, of Norwich; husband of Gertrude S. Scarles, of 25, Mile End Rd., Norwich.
Grave/Memorial Reference: Sp. Mem. B. 15. Cemetery: FIFTEEN RAVINE BRITISH CEMETERY, VILLERS-PLOUICH
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=239824
A picture of Signaller Scarles of Hawke Battalion, Royal Naval Division, can be seen on Norlink
norlink.norfolk.gov.uk/02_Catalogue/02_013_PictureTitleIn...
Accompanying notes read
Signaller Scarles was born 22nd October 1887. He enlisted on 30 May 1917 and died in France on 22nd January 1918
Apparently he is also commemorated on a headstone at St Lawrences Church at Brundall
twgpp.org/information.php?id=665975
RND, Hawke Battalion, France
SCARLES, Wilfred L, Able Seaman, RNVR, R 1496, killed
www.naval-history.net/xDKCas1918-01Jan.htm
See brother Frederic above for family details.
St Faiths Memorial
In the grounds of the Church of St Mary and St Andrew, St Faiths
1914 - 1918
Charles Britcher
Name: BRITCHER Initials: C
Rank: Private
Regiment: Norfolk Regiment Unit Text: 2nd Bn.
Age: 43
Date of Death: 07/05/1916
Service No: 16496
Additional information: Son of Charles and M. A. Britcher, of St. Faith's; husband of Maria Britcher, of 3, Council Houses, St. Naith's, Norwich.
Grave/Memorial Reference: III. L. 11. Cemetery: BASRA WAR CEMETERY
www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=509421
No match on Norlink
Genes Re-united search 1901 Census - Charles Britcher born 1873 St Faiths Norfolk, resident Horsham St Faiths and Newton St Faiths, profession Agricultural Labourer. Charles was the head of the household and lived with his wife Maria Britcher, (age 26, born St Faiths Norfolk and employed as a horsehair weaver) and their son Claude, age 1.
Kut falls
On 29 April 1916 Kut surrendered to the Turks. After agreeing terms, Townshend marched his troops out into captivity, and certain death for most of them. Most of the Arabs left in Kut were hanged by the Turks for helping the British.
Thus began the forced march from what is now Iraq into Turkey to prison camps. This forced march being a foretaste of similar marches in the Second World War, such as the forced march of American and Pilipino POWs on Bataan in 1942.
During May 1916, 2000 British Troops, including the Norfolks, started the march some were still in Khaki some were almost naked. The first day they walked 15 miles without food or water. Behind the column were many dead or dying, those who dropped out were killed by the Arab guards. They were first taken to a temporary camp at Shumran about 80 miles from Kut.
The Kurdish guards had stolen the troops food rations and even their water bottles and boots. The British officers were separated at Shumran and were taken up river by steamer leaving their men to walk and die. Wounded officers were then repatriated to India. From Kut to Baghdad is 100 miles, marching 12-15 miles a day lying at night on the open ground. They were herded like sheep by mounted guards with sticks and whips.
The route of the death march was through what is now Iraq into Turkey, a distance of over 400 miles: Aziziya, Baghdad, Tikrit, Mosul, Nisibin, Ras alAin, Mamourra and Aran
The American Ambassadors at Constantinople (Messrs. Morgenthau and Elkus) saw the results of the march and protested, but to no avail. Other diplomatic efforts during the siege, such as the payment of ransom to the Turkish Government, failed. It seems that the Turkish Government wished to impress its Central Power partners.
261 Norfolks were captured at Kut of whom only 78 ever returned to Norfolk, a rate of loss of 70%.; 7 out of every 10 Norfolks died during their captivity of maltreatment and disease.
www.stephen-stratford.co.uk/pte_wilby.htm
************************************************************
Frederick Britcher
Name: BRITCHER Initials: F
Rank: Private
Regiment: Bedfordshire Regiment
Secondary Regiment: Labour Corps
Secondary Unit Text: ransf. to (215384) 447th Agricultural Coy.
Age: 24
Date of Death: 06/11/1918
Service No: 27120
Additional information: Son of Allen Britcher, of Bunns Row, St. Faiths. Casualty Type: Grave/Memorial Reference: 2. 10. Cemetery: HORSHAM ST. FAITH CEMETERY
www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=2803399
No Match on Norlink
GR search has Frederick Britcher born 1895 Norfolk St Faiths, Resident Horsham St Faiths and Newton St Faiths
Frederick’s family on the 1901 Census was made up of
Allen Britcher Head of Household and Father. Age 39, born St Faiths and working as Stockman on a Farm
Eliza Britcher, Age 37, Mother, born St Faiths, working as a Horsehair Weaver
George Britcher, Age 13, Brother, working as an Agricultural Labourer, born St Faiths
Jessie Britcher, Age 15, Sister, working as a Horsehair Weaver, born St Faiths
Lilian Britcher, Age 9, born St Faiths
Thomas Britcher, Age 2, born St Faiths
Frederick is listed on the Norwich Breweries memorial in Rouen Road, Norwich. It states he died at home.
www.roll-of-honour.com/Norfolk/NorwichBreweries.html
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Frank Broom
Choice of six plus Frank Broome on CWGC
No match on Norlink
GR 1901 Census search has Frank Broom born 1896 at Newton St Faiths and still resident there, Schoolboy. Checked CWGC again - still leaves four who’s age is not known.
Frank’s family on the 1901 Census was made up of
James Broom, Head of Household and Father, Age 48, born St Faiths and working as a Teamster on a Farm
Lydia A Broom, Mother aged 44, born Newton St Faiths
Beatrice Broom, Sister, aged 16, working as Mothers Help, born Newton St Faiths
Charles E Broom, Brother, aged 26 and single, working as a Yardman on a farm, born St Faiths
Fred Broom, Brother, aged 11, schoolboy, born Newton St Faiths
Harry Broom, Brother, aged 18 and single, working as a Yardman on a farm, born St Faiths
Horace Broom, Brother, Aged 9, schoolboy, born Newton St Faiths
Sidney Broom, Bother, Aged 13, schoolboy, born Newton St Faiths (see next entry)
Walter Broom, Brother, Aged 15, working as an Agricultural, Labourer, born Newton St Faiths
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Sidney Broom
Choice of four plus two S Broome ‘s on CWGC
No match on Norlink
GR search has a Sidney Broom born 1888 at Newton St Faiths and still resident there, Schoolboy. Checked CWGC again - only eliminated one of the S Brooms as the rest are age unknown.
Sidney’s family on the 1901 Census was made up of
James Broom, Head of Household and Father, Age 48, born St Faiths and working as a Teamster on a Farm
Lydia A Broom, Mother aged 44, born Newton St Faiths
Beatrice Broom, Sister, aged 16, working as Mothers Help, born Newton St Faiths
Charles E Broom, Brother, aged 26 and single, working as a Yardman on a farm, born St Faiths
Fred Broom, Brother, aged 11, schoolboy, born Newton St Faiths
Harry Broom, Brother, aged 18 and single, working as a Yardman on a farm, born St Faiths
Horace Broom, Brother, Aged 9, schoolboy, born Newton St Faiths
Frank Broom, Bother, Aged 5, schoolboy, born Newton St Faiths (see entry above)
Walter Broom, Brother, Aged 15, working as an Agricultural, Labourer, born Newton St Faiths
****************************************************************
John Buck
Lots of potential matches, nothing obvious on CWGC
No match on Norlink
GR search has numerous John Buck’s of the right age born in Norfolk, but the most likely is one born St Faiths 1884, resident Horsham St Faiths and Newton St Faiths, profession Agricultural Labourer.
The 1901 Census has him resident at Mots farm with his father, William Buck, age 52, born St Faiths, who was working as a Shepherd and his mother, Susan Buck, aged 51, born St Faiths and working as a Horsehair Weaver.
Updated see comments below
****************************************************************
John A.Chapman
Most Likely
Name: CHAPMAN, JOHN ARTHUR
Rank: Private Regiment/Service: Norfolk Regiment Unit Text: 1st/5th Bn.
Date of Death: 21/08/1915 Service No: 3780
Grave/Memorial Reference: Panel 42 to 44. Memorial: HELLES MEMORIAL
www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=697042
No match on Norlink
Genes Re-united has many matches for a John Chapman born in Norfolk on the 1901 Census, but the most likely match is either one born at St Faiths in 1868, profession Labourer in a Grind Pit, which would have made him 47 at the time he died, or one born in 1901, which would have made him 14. The two were father and son.
Having lost over 200 men from the battalion shortly before this on the 12th, the battalion was to lose at least another 36 on this day.
Hubert Attoe, aged 19 of Briston, Melton Constable
Joseph Bentley
Robert Beresford, age 29, of Holt
William Bond, age 20, of West Newton, Kings Lynn
Leonard Bridges
Cecil Bullimore, age 21, of Westwick
Ernest Bussey, age 20, of Melton Constable
Sidney Carter
Ernest Cramer, age 46, of East Dereham
Victor Craske
Arthur Futter, age 26, of Gorleston
John Goulder
Geoffrey Griston
Robert Halls, age 26, of Cambridge
George Harnwell, age 16, of Downham West
Frederick Heron, age 21, of Wymondham
Frank Heseltine, age 21, of Kings Lynn
William Humphrey
Frederick Kerrison, age 19, of Carleton Rode
Robert Lines
Captain Arthur Mason, age 32, of Necton Hall, Swaffham
Wallace Murrel, age 25, of Holt
Robert Nurse, age 22, of Dersingham
Walter Page, age 20, of Southtown, Great Yarmouth
William Payne, age 29, of Cromer
Roland Ringer, age 23, of West Newton
Thomas Robinson
George Rudd, age 21, of Norwich
CSM William Simpson, age 37, of North Walsham
Frederick Smith, age 22, of Kings Lynn
Frederick Spreckley, age 19, of Kings Lynn
Morris Walden
William Walker, age 24, of Roydon
Major Ernest Woodwark, age 37
Leslie Woolner, age 20, of Melton Constable
*****************************************************************
Cecil W Chapman
Most likely
Name: CHAPMAN, CECIL WALTER
Rank: Air Mechanic 3rd Class Regiment/Service: Royal Air Force
Age: 17 Date of Death: 22/10/1918 Service No: 299286
Grave/Memorial Reference: 2. 9. Cemetery: HORSHAM ST. FAITH CEMETERY
www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=2803400
No match on Norlink
GR search of the 1901 Census has a Cecil Chapman born 1901 St Faiths Norfolk. Cecil’s father is listed as Walter J J Chapman, age 30, born Norwich and now working as a Groom Shopkeeper. His mother is Kate Chapman, age 24 and born at Honingham. Cecil had a sister, Violet A Chapman aged 2.
*****************************************************************
George A Chapman
Name: CHAPMAN, GEORGE ARTHUR
Rank: Private Regiment/Service: Norfolk Regiment Unit Text: 1st Bn.
Age: 29 Date of Death: 04/09/1916 Service No: 18243
Additional information: Son of the late Edward and Mary Arm Chapman; husband of Charlotte Chapman, of Back St., St. Faiths, Norwich.
Grave/Memorial Reference: Pier and Face 1 C and 1 D. Memorial: THIEPVAL MEMORIAL
www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=1543141
No match on Norlink
GR search of the 1901 Census has a George Chapman born Horsford, 1887, now resident at Horsham St Faiths & Newton St Faiths, Profession Agricultural Labourer.
The Chapmans were resident at Barrack Yard, Horsham St Faiths. The rest of the family were:-
Edward Chapman, Father and Head of Household, aged 79 (possible typo in transcript?), born Horsford and a former Agricultural Labourer.
Mary A Chapman, Wife and Mother, aged 49, born Horsford and working as a Charwoman
Albert Chapman, Single, aged 17, born Horsford, Butchers Slaughterman
Edward Chapman, Single, aged 19, born Horsford, Agricultural Labourer
Mabel Chapman, aged 12, born Horsford and still at school
Sophia Chapman, aged 10, born Horsford and still at school
Walter Chapman, aged 7, born St Faiths and still at school
4/5th September 1916 Action at Falfemont Farm near Guillemont
1914-1918.invisionzone.com/forums/lofiversion/index.php/t...
The attack was held up and casualties were being caused by bombing and small arms fire before they eventually took the objective only to come under friendly artillery fire that caused serious casualties. According to the Regimental casualty book 56 all ranks were killed, 219 wounded and 94 missing, believed killed, a total of 369. The battalion was relieved the next day.
*****************************************************************
Samuel Chapman
Name: CHAPMAN, SAMUEL
Rank: Lance Corporal Regiment/Service: Norfolk Regiment Unit Text: 7th Bn.
Age: 22 Date of Death: 07/06/1917 Service No: 205169
Additional information: Son of Samuel and Harriett Chapman, of Swan, St. Faiths, Norwich, Norfolk.
Grave/Memorial Reference: Bay 3. Memorial: ARRAS MEMORIAL
www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=744148
No match on Norlink
No direct match on GR 1901 Census - there is a Samuel born 1882, St Faiths Norfolk, now resident Essex as a Private in the Infantry Militia, otherwise there are no Samuels of the right age with any obvious connection on the 1901 Census. Going back to the 1891 census, the Samuel who was born in St Faiths is now resident at 6, Queen Caroline Yard, Coslany, Norwich, but his age is only 6, which would indicate 1885 as his year of birth. That would tie in with the CWGC record but the Head of the Household at this address is an Arthur Chapman, and while there is a Harriet, age 49, listed as living in Coslany, she is at another address. There is however a Harriet Chapman age 14 who appears to be Samuel’s sister.
There is a Harriet born 1855 Horsford and still resident there, but while she has 6 children living with her at the time of the 1901 census, there is not obviously a Samuel amongst them.
Samuel is the only fatal casualty of the 7th Battalion on that day. The 7th Battalion formed part of the 12th Division.
Between 17 May and 19 October 1917, the Division held positions east of Monchy le Preux, mounting several raids and small scale attacks and beating off some made against them, notably in the area of Hook Trench - Pick Avenue - Tites Copse. Much manual work took place, for the position held in May was of shell holes and disconnected parts of trenches, with few dugouts and no communications. When out of the line, units took part in training at Beaurains, where a scale model of the area occupied had been built for the purposes of instruction. A very successful major raid was carried out on 14 October. Five days later the Division was relieved by 4th Division, and returned to La Cauroy. (It should be noted that in holding the Arras front for as long as it did, 12th Division did not take part in the Third Battle of Ypres (Passchendaele)).
*******************************************************************
Henry Chilvers
Name: CHILVERS, HENRY
Rank: Private
Regiment: Norfolk Regiment Unit Text: 9th Bn.
Age: 27
Date of Death: 22/04/1917
Service No: 40711
Additional information: Son of Mr. and Mrs. W. Chilvers, of Garden House, St. Faiths, Newton, Norwich; husband of Lucy Winifred Chilvers, of 32, Grove Rd., Norwich.
Grave/Memorial Reference: VI. B. 12. Cemetery: VERMELLES BRITISH CEMETERY
www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=251252
No match on Norlink
Most likely match is a Henry born 1890 Norwich and still resident there
On the 1901 Census he was living at 69 Spencer Street, Norwich. The family consisted of:-
William Chilvers, Head of Household, Married, age 44, born Norwich, occupation Brush Maker
Amelia Chilvers, Wife, age 43, born Norwich
Amelia Chilvers, Daughter, Single, aged 13, born Norwich, occupation Cigar Maker
Edith Chilvers, Daughter, aged under 1, born Norwich
Fred Chilvers Son aged 6, born Norwich
George Chilvers,Son, aged 18 & single, born Norwich, occupation Brush Maker
Henry Chilvers, Son, aged 11, born Norwich
Laura Chilvers, Daughter, aged 7, born Norwich
Maud Chilvers, Daughter&Single, aged 19, born Norwich, occupation Jacket Machinist
May Chilvers, Daughter&Single, aged 16, Born Norwich, occupation Tailoress
Nellie Chilvers, Daughter, aged 9, born Norwich
While Spencer Street would have been a fairly new house in 1901, it would still be little more than a glorified 2up/2 down - how did 11 people share it J
Henry is the only known fatal casualty of the 9th Battalion on this day.
*******************************************************************
Arthur Fox
Too many to choose from, no obvious matches
No match on Norlink
Interestingly there are two Arthur Fox’s listed as being born St Faiths, Norfolk in 1892 and still resident there - one charmingly has their occupation listed as “School Cad” !
Updated see comments below
******************************************************************
John W Fox
Most likely
Name: FOX, JOHN WILLIAM
Rank: Private
Regiment: Norfolk Regiment Unit Text: 1st Bn.
Date of Death: 23/04/1917
Service No: 19173
Memorial Reference: Bay 3. Memorial: ARRAS MEMORIAL
www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=1557546
No match on Norlink
Genes Reunited 1901 Census has a John Fox born St Faiths 1881, resident Horsham St Faiths & Newton St Faiths, Occupation Teamster on Farm
The household consisted of:-
Dinah Fox Head of Household and Single Aged 43 Born St Faiths Occupation Horse Hair Weaver
Arthur Fox, (see above), son, aged 9 Born St Faiths “School Cad”
Ernest Fox, son, aged 14, Born St Faiths, “Dock”Feeder on Farm
John Fox, son, aged 20, Born St Faiths, Teamster on Farm
Dinah was also shown as being the head of the household on the 1891 census, when the family address was shown as 12, Fairstead, St Faiths.
The 1st Battalion formed part of the 5th Division. On this day, alongside Canadian forces, and as part of the battle of Arras, the division was involved in an attack on La Culotte, also known as the Second Battle of the Scarpe. The British lost 10,000 casualties - 61 of them fatalities of men from the 1st Battalion.
www.cefresearch.com/matrix/Nicholson/Transcription/Chapte...
(Casualty total from Geoff’s Search engine)
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Frederick W Furness
Name: FURNESS, FREDERICK WILLIAM
Rank: Private
Regiment: Hertfordshire Regiment Unit Text: 1st Bn.
Age: 22
Date of Death: 30/10/1917
Service No: 40877
Additional information: Son of Edward and Ellen Furness, of Cromer Rd., Newton St. Faiths, Norwich.
Grave/Memorial Reference: VIA. G. 9. Cemetery: HOOGE CRATER CEMETERY
www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=458049
No Match on Norlink
The 1901 Census on Genes Reunited has a Frederick Furness, born Newton St Faiths 1896 and resident Horsham St Faiths and Newton St Faiths
Frederick was living at Newton Street in the household of his grandfather, Frederick Woodcock, a 48 year old agricultural labourer who had been born in St Faiths, his grandmother, Sussannah Woodcock, a 46 year old who had been born in “Hortford”, (presumably Horsford) and various of his aunts and uncles.
Elias aged 16, a single agricultural labourer born at Newton St Faiths
Frederick aged 24, a market gardener born at Newton St faiths
John Woodcock aged 22, a single agricultural labourer born at Newton St Faiths
Louisa Woodcock aged 18, a single Hair Cloth weaver born at Newton St Faiths
Richard Woodcock, aged 17, a single agricultural labourer born at Newton St Faiths
Walter Woodcock aged 23, a single agricultural labourer born at Newton St Faiths.
Extract from an on-line copy of the 1st Battalions War Diary for 1917.
28-10-17. The Bn relieved the 1st R.W.F. on the left TOWER HAMLETS sector front line, relief being complete by 10pm. 2/Lt T.E. PENNY wounded whilst reconnoitring the line in the morning. 2/Lt E.F.M. [Edward Frederick Montague] BROWN wounded on the way up to the relief. The Bn suffered a few casualties during the relief.
31-10-17. The Bn was relieved by the 1st/1st Cambs Regt, relief being completed by 10pm. Bn moved into support with H.Qrs. & Nos 1&4 Coys at BODMIN COPSE in dugouts & trenches. Nos 2&3 Coys went into support at JAR TRENCH.
Casualties from 28-10-17 to 31-10-17; Killed – 6, Died of Wounds – 1, Died of Gas Poisoning – 1, wounded – 21, gassed – 9 + some cases of Trench Foot.
www.bedfordregiment.org.uk/hertsrgt/1stherts1917diary.html
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Herbert Harvey
Too many to choose from - at least four Herbert Harveys in the Norfolk Regiment alone
No match on Norlink
No obvious matches on the GR 1901 Census search
Updated see comments below
******************************************************************
William Harvey
Too many to choose from and no obvious matches
No match on Norlink
No obvious matches on the GR 1901 Census search
Updated see comments below
******************************************************************
George High
Name: HIGH, GEORGE
Rank: Private
Regiment: Lincolnshire Regiment Unit Text: 1st Bn.
Age: 20
Date of Death: 09/07/1916
Service No: 15504
Additional information: Son of William and L. M. High, of Newton St. Faiths, Norwich. Grave/Memorial Reference: A. 25. 10. Cemetery: ST. SEVER CEMETERY, ROUEN
www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=515048
No match on Norlink
No obvious matches on the GR 1901 Census search but best guess in looking at all George High’s on the census born in the period 1895-1897, there is one George aged 4 living in The Street, Costessey with his 35 year old Widowed mother Lucy and his brothers Charles, (aged 3), William, (aged 6), and Richard (aged 10). Given Richard’s age you would expect Lucy High to appear on the 1891 Census along with the name of her husband, but interestingly there are only three on the entire census and none are anywhere near the right age.
July 9th: 70'-53' cloudy and fine. Large fire reported at Martinpuich and Station. Trones Wood fighting continues. E. S. Montagu appointed Minister of Munitions.
From the Battle of the Somme timeline at:-
The 1st Battalion had advanced towards Fricourt on the 1st day of the Somme. St Sever was associated with numerous Military Hospitals, so it is possible that George died of wounds.
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Edward Lubbock
There is no Edward on the CWGC online database but there is this:-
Name: LUBBOCK, ALBERT EDWARD
Rank: Driver
Regiment/Service: Royal Field Artillery Unit Text: 86th Bde.
Age: 25
Date of Death: 23/08/1918
Service No: 170563
Additional information: Son of Fredrick William and Frances A. E. Lubbock, of Newton St. Faith's, Norwich.
Grave/Memorial Reference: V. C. 24. Cemetery: DAOURS COMMUNAL CEMETERY EXTENSION
www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=77383
No match on Norlink
No obvious matches on the Genes Reunited 1901 Census for Edward or Albert. The only Frances Lubbock listed lived at Aldenham in Hertfordshire, was born in 1846, so would have been 47 at the time Driver Lubbock was born.
There is a Frederick, living at Buxton aged 33 and employed as a coachman, who has a son Edward aged 8, but his wife, (and Edwards mother) is called Augusta. Interestingly, however, she was born at Stratton Strawless, and one of their other children, William aged 13 was also born in Stratton Strawless, a village which is comparatively close to Newton St Faiths.
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Herbert Mandall- Hall
Name: MANDALL-HALL, HERBERT
Rank: Private
Regiment: Norfolk Regiment Unit Text: 7th Bn.
Date of Death: 28/04/1917
Service No: 29678
Memorial Reference: Bay 3. Memorial: ARRAS MEMORIAL
www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=780238
No match on Norlink
No matches for name, just surname only, surname of Hall and wildcard searches on Mand* on Genes Reunited search.
66 fatalities are recorded against the 7th Battalion on this day on the CWGC database, Herbert being one of them. Most like Herbert have no know burial place but are recorded on the Arras Memorial.
12th Division, of which the 7th Norfolks were part took part in the Battle of Arleux during the period 28/29th April 1917.
Battle of Arleux
28 - 29 April 1917
Although the Canadian Corps had successfully taken Vimy Ridge, difficulties in securing the south-eastern flank had left the position vulnerable. To rectify this, British and Canadian troops launched an attack towards Arleux-en-Gohelle on 28 April.[37] Arleux was captured by Canadian troops with relative ease, but the British troops advancing on Gavrelle met stiffer resistance from the Germans. The village was secured by early evening, but when a German counterattack forced a brief retreat, elements of the 63rd Division were brought up as reinforcements and the village was held. Subsequent attacks on 29 April however, failed to net any further advances.Despite achieving the limited objective of securing the Canadian position on Vimy Ridge, casualties were high, and the ultimate result was disappointing.[
V Leggett…………Corporal
Possibly
Name: LEGGETT Initials: V J
Rank: Corporal Regiment: Yorkshire Regiment Unit Text: 10th Bn.
Date of Death: 15/04/1917 Service No: 33106
Grave/Memorial Reference: VII. G. 3. Cemetery: WARLINCOURT HALTE BRITISH CEMETERY, SAULTY
www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=91376
(The other two V Leggetts in the CWGC databases are Sappers in the Royal Engineers. The additional information given links them both to other parts of the country)
No match on Norlink
The 1901 census has a 3 year old Victor Leggett. Victor had been born at Hethersett, but by the time of the Census was living at 4 Church Lane, Eaton. This was the household of his parents - John, (aged 42 and a coachman from Methwold) and Martha, (aged 32 and from Felthorpe, Norfolk). Victor’s siblings are :-
Dulsie………….aged under 1.……..n\a…..born:Eaton
Ernest………….aged 6.………………..n\a…..born:Hethersett
Florence………aged 10.………………n\a……born:Hethersett
Hilda……………aged 12.……………..n\a…….born:Eaton
Olive……………aged 9.………………..n\a……born:Hethersett
Selina………….aged 5.………………..n\a……born:Hethersett
The 10th Yorkshire were involved in the First Battle of the Scarpe, 9th-14th April 1917, which was part of the wider Battle of Arras. After initial success, the hoped for break-through failed to materialise, combined with a break in the weather and the Battle petered out. Pehaps Corporal Leggett died as a result of wounds received during the preceding days.
www.webmatters.net/france/ww1_arras_VIIa.htm
The Cemetery where Corporal Leggett was buried does indeed seem to have been mainly used by Casualty Clearing Stations and Field Ambulances.
www.cwgc.org/search/cemetery_details.aspx?cemetery=8700&a...
The Medal Index Card listing for Corporal 33106 of the Yorkshire Regiment is in the name of Victor J Leggett. He had previously been Private 9166 Northumberland Fusiliers. He is recorded on Soldiers Who Died in the Great War as born Norwich.
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A E Leverett……………Private
Name: LEVERETT, ARTHUR
Rank: Private Regiment: The Loyal North Lancashire Regiment Unit Text: 7th Bn.
Age: 27 Date of Death: 17/12/1917 Service No: 27408
Additional information: Son of Robert and Kate Leverett, of 19, Church Lane, Eaton Village, Norwich.
Grave/Memorial Reference: VII. B. 10. Cemetery: ROCQUIGNY-EQUANCOURT ROAD BRITISH CEMETERY, MANANCOURT
www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=244175
No match on Norlink
The 1901 Census has a 10 year old Arthur J.Leverett who was originally born in Hethersett but now living at 17 Church Lane Eaton. This is the household of his parents, Robert, (aged 34 and a Groom &Gardener from London) and Kate, (aged 35 and from Bunwell, Norfolk).
Arthur’s siblings are:-
Beatrice A……………………aged 13.………….born:Bunwell
Ellen E W…………………….aged 3.……………born:Eaton
James J R W……………….aged 4.…………….born:Eaton
Rose M…………………………aged 8.…………….born:Hethersett
I can find no record of the 7th Battalion being in action at this moment, but the CWGC notes on the history of the Cemetery indicates Private Leverett may well have died of wounds received earlier.
Etricourt was occupied by Commonwealth troops at the beginning of April 1917 during the German withdrawal to the Hindenburg Line. It was lost on the 23 March 1918 when the Germans advanced, but regained at the beginning of September. The cemetery was begun in 1917 and used until March 1918, mainly by the 21st and 48th Casualty Clearing Stations posted at Ytres, and to a small extent by the Germans, who knew it as "Etricourt Old English Cemetery"
www.cwgc.org/search/cemetery_details.aspx?cemetery=200008...
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H Loveday……………..O M Sergeant
Probably
Name: LOVEDAY, HORACE HENRY
Rank: Serjeant Regiment/Service: Norfolk Regiment Unit Text: 8th Bn.
Date of Death: 31/07/1917 Service No: 14617
Grave/Memorial Reference: Panel 4. Memorial: YPRES (MENIN GATE) MEMORIAL
www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=1619390
No match on Norlink for Loverday or Loveday
The 1901 Census has no obvious Horace Loveday, but it does have a Henry Loveday, aged 3, living at the Stables, Tombland along with his father Henry, (aged 28, a Coachman Domestic from Harpley, Norfolk) and Nellie, (aged 26 and from Islington, London). Henry has two sisters, Olive, (aged 4), and Beryl, (aged 1).
The Battle of Pilkem, 31 July - 2 August 1917
30th Division, with 53rd Brigade of 18th (Eastern) Division in support, attacked through Sanctuary Wood in the direction of Stirling Castle. 21st Brigade was unable to leave its assembly position on time due to heavy German shellfire and without protection of its own protective barrage became mixed up in the tangle of the wood as they approached Jar Row trench. Some men of the 18th King's veered off left and got mixed up with other units on the Menin road at Clapham Junction. 90th Brigade also lost direction and 2nd Royal Scots Fusiliers signalled that they had taken Glencorse Wood, but in fact had only reached Chateau Wood. 53rd Brigade, whose job was to take the advance on from Glencorse Wood, were surprised to find the wood in enemy hands. Despite being reinforced by five tanks, the brigade was held up by heavy fire.
(This information was taken originally from the 1914-1918 site, but as a result of a current re-organisation (April 2009), this information is no longer present there)
Updated see comment 4 below
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J B Midforth………………Private
Name: MIDFORTH, JOHN BRIAN
Rank: Private
Regiment: Bedfordshire Regiment Unit Text: 8th Bn.
Age: 31
Date of Death: 10/02/1917
Service No: 40160
Additional information: Son of Robert Brian Midforth and Mearah Midforth, of Hull; husband of A. M. Midforth, of 60, Bury St., Unthank Rd., Norwich.
Grave/Memorial Reference: V. D. 41. Cemetery: VERMELLES BRITISH CEMETERY
www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=252120
No match on Norlink
The 1901 Census has a 15 year old John who had been born in Hull but was now living at 28 Onley Street, Norwich and employed as an apprentice to an Organ Pipe Manufacturer. This was the household of his parents, Robert B, (a 47 year old Organ Pipe maker from Hull) and Mearah, (aged 40 and from Notinghamshire). Also resident are siblings:-
Alfred, aged 12
Frederick T, aged 14 and a Telegraph messenger
Harry, aged 8
Mearah, aged 6
Lily, aged 21 and a Tailoress
(All born Hull).
Battalion War diary
HOHENZOLLERN. B, C & D Coy in front line & saps. A Coy in support
11 Feb 1917 Bn in line as above - Enemy snipers active. Casualties 2/Lt Batt wounded. 3 O.R. killed, 4 OR wounded.
www.bedfordregiment.org.uk/8thbtn/8thbtn1917diary.html
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W V Morgan………………………………....Captain
Name: MORGAN, WILLIAM VANSTONE
Rank: Captain Regiment/Service: Norfolk Regiment Unit Text: 4th Bn.
Date of Death: 19/04/1917
Grave/Memorial Reference: Panels 12 to 15. Memorial: JERUSALEM MEMORIAL
www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=1646422
Captain Morgan can be seen here:
norlink.norfolk.gov.uk/02_Catalogue/02_013_PictureTitleIn...
The Norlink notes accompanying the picture read “Captain Morgan was educated at Norwich Grammar School, and, upon leaving school, was articled to Mr. J.W. Cockrill, M.I.C.E., Borough Surveyor, Great Yarmouth. He joined his father's firm and managed their branch business in Diss. He took a commission in 1/4th Norfolk Regiment in 1913. Gazetted as Captain, 1915. He went to Gallipoli in 1915 and was killed in action, 19th April 1917, aged 27.”
The 1901 Census has 11 year old Wiliam V Morgan living at 211 Unthank Road, Norwich. This is the household of his parents, Benjamin B. (aged 41 and a Surveyor and Valuer from Norwich), and mother Minnie, (aged 36 and from Chipping Ongar, Essex).. William’s siblings are Alice M. (aged 9), Dorothy E, (aged 6), Geoffrey F. (aged 3) and Robert P. (aged 4). The Morgan’s have three live in servants.
The 2nd Battle of Gaza which took place on this day was almost a total disaster for the allies.
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
Captain Morgan also appears on the Diss War Memorial
www.roll-of-honour.org/Norfolk/Diss.html
Updated April 2017 - see comments below.
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Gerald E Morse……….2nd Lieutenant
Name: MORSE Initials: G E
Rank: Second Lieutenant Regiment/Service: Royal Flying Corps Unit Text: 2nd Sqdn. Date of Death: 31/10/1917
Grave/Memorial Reference: III. J. 18. Cemetery: BETHUNE TOWN CEMETERY
www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=60863
No match on Norlink
The only Gerald Morse listed on the 1901 Census was 5 years old, had been born in Middlesex and now resided at 80 Goldington Avenue, Bedford. However, a high-level search of the 1911 Census confirms that while that individual is still residing in Bedford, (and is a Gerald Frank), there is a Gerald Ernest age 13, living in Norwich. However, another look at the 1901 Census doesn’t throw up any likely members of the Morse family with any connection by birth or residence with the West side of Norwich.
There’s a bit more about 2 Squadron at this time on the Squadron’s web-site
www.twosqnassoc.co.uk/pages/bosses/snow.htm
Updated See Comment 3 below
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R Mortimer…………………….Private
Possibly
Name: MORTIMER Initials: R G
Rank: Private Regiment/Service: Norfolk Regiment Unit Text: 8th Bn.
Age: 24 Date of Death: 10/01/1916 Service No: 13399
Additional information: Son of Charles W. and A. Mortimer, of 108, Devonshire St., Dereham Rd., Norwich.
Grave/Memorial Reference: I. B. 5. Cemetery: ALBERT COMMUNAL CEMETERY EXTENSION
www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=552120
But could be
www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=1546067
No match on Norlink
The 1901 Census has no match for a R. Mortimer in Norwich, but it does have a 9 year old Russell G. Russell was born at Bawburgh, Norfolk, and was currently living at “Bridge Foot” in that village. This was the household of his parents, Charles W, (aged 36 and an Agricultural Labourer from Marlingford) and Adeline, (aged 37 and from Hackford).
The Battalion had been in the Somme region since summer, 1915. During this time they were to become familiar with the routine of life in the trenches. As with other front line units, they spent time in and out of the lines, experiencing both the dull and unpleasant realities of trench warfare and the occasional action in the form of raiding parties, etc.
(Although this was written about another Battalion in the same Brigade, I’m sure that it applies equally to the 8th Norfolks)
www.6throyalberks.co.uk/1stJuly/default.html
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W H Mower……………………….1st Class Petty Officer
Probably
Name: MOWER, WILLIAM HARRY
Rank: Sick Berth Steward Regiment/Service: Royal Navy Unit Text: H.M.S. "Falmouth" Age: 33 Date of Death: 09/07/1918 Service No: 360442
Additional information: Son of Charlotte Mower, of 93, Glebe Rd., Norwich, and the late William Mower.
Grave/Memorial Reference: AA. 245. Cemetery: NORWICH CEMETERY, Norfolk
www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=2803249
No match on Norlink
The 1901 Census has William Mower, aged 16 and a Factory Junior Clerk, living at 45 Caernarvon Road, Norwich, with his parents William, (aged 58, Grocers assistant) and Charlotte, (aged 50) as well as siblings Harry, (aged 11), Jessop, (aged 13), and May (aged 19)
William’s death is recorded as “illness” at the Royal Naval Barracks at Chatham. The Pandemic that was to become known as Spanish Flu was just getting started, and William may have been one of its early victims.
www.naval-history.net/xDKCas1918-07Jul.htm
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C Noble……………………….Private
Name: NOBLE, CHARLES
Rank: Private Regiment/Service: Royal Army Medical Corps Unit Text: 6th Field Amb. Age: 23 Date of Death: 12/09/1918 Service No: 93442
Additional information: Son of Frederick Waller Noble and Jane Matilda Noble, 74, Waldeck Rd., Eaton, Norwich.
Grave/Memorial Reference: VI. A. 11. Cemetery: BAC-DU-SUD BRITISH CEMETERY, BAILLEULVAL
www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=18964
Private Noble can be seen here:
norlink.norfolk.gov.uk/02_Catalogue/02_013_PictureTitleIn...
The Norlink notes simply records that he was from Eaton.
The 1901 Census has a 6 year old Charles Noble living at 4 Upton Road, Norwich. This was the household of his parents, Frederick W. (aged 48 and a Carpenter from Norwich), and Jane M, (aged 43 and from Norwich). Charles’ siblings are:-
Alice E…….aged 8
Hilda C…….aged 12
Kate E……..aged 16.……………Domestic Housemaid…Born Islington, London
Mabel G…..aged 10
Percy B……aged 1.
Also resident there was Charles widowed maternal grandmother, Maria A. Slart, aged 74 and from West Bradenham.
This unit was part of the 47th London Division.
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R C Norman…………………..Lance Corporal
Probably
Name: NORMAN, REGINALD CHARLES
Rank: Lance Corporal Regiment/Service: Norfolk Regiment Unit Text: 8th Bn.
Date of Death: 21/10/1916 Service No: 13437
Grave/Memorial Reference: Pier and Face 1 C and 1 D. Memorial: THIEPVAL MEMORIAL
www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=806611
No match on Norlink
The 1901 Census has a 7 year old Reginald C. living at 118 York Street, Norwich. This is the household of his parents, Benjamin C, (a 40 year old Postman from Norwich), and Adeline E. (aged 36 and also from Norwich). Their other children are Agnes J.E, (aged 8), and Hilda A, (aged 3 months)
While its not shown as a separate Battle Honour, the 8th certainly seem to have been in action in the period 21st/22nd October. The CWGC database lists 32 fatalities for the Battalion on the 21st and a further 8 on the 22nd.
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S W Palmer…………….Sergeant
Name: PALMER, SIDNEY WILLIAM
Rank: Serjeant Regiment/Service: Gloucestershire Regiment Unit Text: 2nd/44th Bn.
Age: 19 Date of Death: 05/07/1916 Service No: 6240
Additional information: Son of Edward and Jane Palmer, of 32, Glebe Rd., Unthank Rd., Norwich.
Grave/Memorial Reference: Panel 60 to 64. Memorial: LOOS MEMORIAL
www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=1766218
No match on Norlink
The 1901 Census has the 3 year old Sidney Palmer living at 32 Glebe Road, Norwich. This was the household of his parents, Edward, (a 47 year old Museum Attendant from Norwich) and Jane, (aged 40 and from Wymondham). Their other children are William, (aged under 1), Arthur, (aged 11), and George, (aged 12).
Serjeant Palmer had originally enlisted in the Norfolk Regiment, where his service number was 1718. His place of enlistment is given as North Walsham. He is recorded as being killed in action.
www.glosters.org.uk/soldier/26924
The 2/4th (City of Bristol) Battalion had only arrived in France on the 24th May 1916.
The Unit would see its first battle on the 19th July, as part of 61st Division. The Division would suffer over 1,500 casualties in a disastrous diversionary attack at Fromelles which was intended to tie down reserves in their area and keep them away from the Somme.
www.webmatters.net/france/ww1_fromelles.htm
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A B Parker……………Corporal
Probably
Name: PARKER, ARTHUR BURGESS
Rank: Corporal Regiment/Service: Essex Regiment Unit Text: 1st Bn.
Date of Death: 13/08/1915 Service No: 20560
Grave/Memorial Reference: Panel 144 to 150 or 229 to 233. Memorial: HELLES MEMORIAL
www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=683111
No match on Norlink
There are at least 6 Arthur Parkers either born and still resident, or now resident in the Norwich area. None are in the Eaton area of Norwich - Globe Place and Kings Street probably being the closest.
HMT Royal Edward, 11,117 grt, sunk 13th August 1915 by German submarine SMU UB14, 6 miles W from Kandeliusa, Aegean Sea, carrying goverment stores from Avonmouth & Alexandria to Mudros. Owned by Canadian Northern Steamships Ltd-Toronto. 132 crew died. Out of a total compliment of 1586 (crew and troops) less than 500 were saved.
1/Essex lost 174 O.R's, but 172 of them were volunteers who'd transfer from the Norfolk's (3rd Special Reserve) based at Felixstowe, 100 on 23 June and 200 on 24 July.
Colonel Tonge refers to the loss of 300 men, the best draft that ever left Felixstowe. These men volunteered to join the Essex Regiment and appear to have constituted the drafts of June 23 and July 24 1915. They were part of the reinforcements carried by the transport "Royal Edward" which was torpedoed and sunk in the Aegean Sea on August 14th 1915. She sank two and a half minutes after the torpedo struck her.Of the 1,400 men she carried only 600 were saved,and the drowned included all but 18 of the 300 Norfolk men. The men who had had a route march just before leaving Alexandria, were waiting on deck for foot inspection at about 9.20 am. Their lifebelts were down below, and when the ship was unexpectedly struck most of them ran below to fetch the belts. Owing to the ship's sudden heeling over and sinking, these never got up again. Those who escaped were picked up by a hospital ship which responded to the s.o.s. signal. To partly replace this sad loss, another draft of 150 men to the Essex Regiment was dispatched on September 29, 1915.
Addenda 1994 From: "Men of Gallipoli"(David & Charles,1988) by kind permission of the publishers. One of the features of the Cape Helles monument is the rows of names of men drowned in the torpedoing of the Royal Edward,which sank in the Eastern Mediterranean on 13th August with a loss of over 850 lives. .A.T.Fraser in the Border Regiment,was in a deckchair on the afterdeck starboard side when suddenly dozens of men ran past him from port to starboard. The explosion came before he had time to ask what was the matter."The ship had no escort and we had not been ordered to have our life-belts with us. The hundreds on deck ran below to get their life-belts and hundreds below would have met them on their way up. I shared a cabin accessible from the deck I was on and I raced there to get my life-belt and ran to my life-boat station which was on the star- board side. As the men arrived they fell in two ranks. Already the ship was listing and this prevented our boats from being lowered, so we were ordered to jump for it. I saw no panic, but of course one could imagine what was happening on the inside stairs. I swam away from the ship and turned to see the funnels leaning towards me.When they reached the sea,all the soot was belched out,there was a loud whoosh and the ship sank. No explosion,no surge.
So I was alone.The little waves were such that in the trough you saw nothing,
on the crest you saw a few yards.The water was warm. I wondered if there were sharks". Fraser found some wood to rest on and he was joined by a seaman, an older man who had twice previously been torpedoed. This brought the young Scot confidence. An up turned Royal Edward lifeboat was to provide 17 of the survivors with a little more security though in what Fraser calls half-hourly recurring turbulence, the boat turned over, offering them conventional but completely waterlogged accommodation every alternate half hour but at least providing them with something to do. There was no singing and little conversation. The first ship that passed hailed the scattered men and promised to signal for help.It could not stop as it had high explosives for Lemnos. Some of the men became depressed and showed unwillingness to clamber back in the life boat when it overturned,but on each occasion all were persuaded. Finally the hospital ship SOUDAIN arrived to pick them up in her life-boats,and at 2 o'clock Fraser was safely aboard her after just under five hours in the sea. He remembers that"a large number of men lost their false teeth as we were constantly sick in the sea- and these men were sent back to England. We the younger ones,were clothed and kitted and on another ship three days later for Gallipoli
www.geocities.com/heartland/acres/5564/royaledward.html
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R C Partridge…………………Captain
Probably
Name: PARTRIDGE, ROBERT CHARLES
Rank: Captain Regiment/Service: 5th Dragoon Guards (Princess Charlotte of Wales's) Age: 32 Date of Death: 08/09/1914
Grave/Memorial Reference: 3. Cemetery: SABLONNIERES NEW COMMUNAL CEMETERY
www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=574243
But could be
www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=267254
No match on Norlink
The 1901 Census has a Robert Charles Partridge listed as an 18 year old Officer Cadet at Sandhurst. While there are other Robert’s of approximately the right age, given the date of death and the unit, it must be a very strong likelihood that the Sandhurst cadet is the one we are looking for. His place of birth is given as Shimpling, Suffolk.
There is no exact match on the 1891 Census, but an 8 year old Robert C, born Suffolk, is staying with his Aunt at 7 Newmarket Road, Norwich along with his brother Anthony F, aged 18. The Aunt’s name unfortunately is totally indecipherable, but she is described as being of independent means and was born at Islington, London. Again her age is difficult to read from the scanned document - best guess is 43.
The BEF took part in the First battle of the Marne, (8th September - 10th September) in which the French Army took the offensive and defeated the German thrust towards Paris. The BEF was used to split the 1st and 2nd German Armies, with the cavalry being used to probe the gap that had opened between the opponents formations.
www.schoolshistory.org.uk/Year9/firstworldwar/1914/septem...
www.historyofwar.org/articles/battles_marne1st.html
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/First_Battle_of_the_Marne
cnparm.home.texas.net/Wars/Marne/Marne05.htm
warpath.orbat.com/cav/1_cav_div.htm
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R C Patteson…………………….Signaller
Name: PATTESON Initials: R C
Rank: Private Regiment/Service: Norfolk Regiment Unit Text: 9th Bn
Age: 19 Date of Death: 18/12/1917 Service No: 200649
Additional information: Son of Charles and Ellen E. Patteson, of 13, Eaton St., Norwich. Native of Eaton.
Grave/Memorial Reference: XXXI. D. 9A. Cemetery: ETAPLES MILITARY CEMETERY
www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=504683
Signaller Reginald Charles Patteson can be seen here:-
norlink.norfolk.gov.uk/02_Catalogue/02_013_PictureTitleIn...
The Norlink notes read “Signaller Patteson was born in Eaton village, Norwich, on 21st August 1898, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Patteson. He enlisted on 15th September 1914 in the Norfolk Regiment, and afterwards attached to the 9th Norfolk Regiment in France. On 30th November 1917 he was wounded, and he died on 18th December 1917”
There are no obvious matches for Reginald or Charles Patteson on the 1901 Census.
This is the only casualty recorded for the 9th battalion on this day.
1914 - 1919
Henry Francis Melton
Most likely
Name: MELTON Initials: H
Rank: Private Regiment/Service: Norfolk Regiment Unit Text: 8th Bn.
Date of Death: 17/02/1917 Service No: 23782
Grave/Memorial Reference: VI. F. 23. Cemetery: REGINA TRENCH CEMETERY, GRANDCOURT
www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=235140
No match on Norlink
No obvious matches on the 1901 Census. There is a Melton family recorded at The Street, Costessey, with the head of the household shown as Maria Melton, aged 40 and with 6 daughters as well as sons James, a 17 year old Labourer and Harry, aged 9. Maria also has an older son, Arthur Paul, aged 20, born London and employed as a brick-layer, indicating Maria had been previously married. On the 1891 census, the head of the household was Herbert Melton, a 30 year old Letter Carrier born at Barford, Norfolk.
15th /17th February 1917 (NB 8th Norfolks were part of the 18th Division, who attacked alongside the Royal Naval Division (RND) on these dates)
The RND moved into the line around Grandcourt at the end January 1917 with preparation for offensive action towards Miraumont. An attack was planned for February and was to be conducted by units of 189 Brigade, with mainly Hood and Hawke assaulting and Nelson in close reserve. The attack went ahead in the evening of 3 February and into the early hours of the 4th. The Brigade succeeded in capturing River trench and settled on its gains but suffered casualties of 24 Officers and 647 other ranks. figures which were significant, especially in the light of the losses three months prior to this.
On 7th February it was the turn of l90 Brigade to attack. This went well with 1/HAC taking Baillescourt Farm which was in the river valley 600yds ahead of the line taken and established on the 4th. The position now was that the line was advanced into the river valley, but the high ground to the north and south was still in German hands. It was this high ground that was to be the subject of attacks of 3 Divisions on the 17th
The plan was to take the sunken lane opposite Baillescourt farm. The lower part of this lane approximately 100yards was in British hands. What was needed was to take the rest of this lane and link with troops to the north. Once this lane had been taken strongpoints were to be formed 50 yards in front of the sunken lane. On the southern flank, the 18 Division was attacking northwards, at 90 degrees to the RND. On their right flank. 2nd division was also attacking Boom ravine northwards towards Pys and Petite Miraumont. The purpose of all of these attacks was to take this high ground and remove a bulge in the British line west of Courcelette/ Pozieres.
Conditions generally were bad. The ground bad been frozen, but now was thawing out, leaving the battlefield muddy. There were no trenches as such, they had been blown away, at best there was a line of shell holes. The result was that there were no landmarks, making it difficult to orientate units- It must be remembered that there was only map and compass to find your way around, not the modern Magellan system aided by satellites. Carrying parties and people attempting to get to the front line were becoming disorientated and frequently lost.
Zero hour was 5.45 am, the attack commenced with a terrific artillery support. The Germans retaliated with artillery, but it was not strong, especially to the North. Despite these conditions there appeared to be the usual confusion of HQ not receiving any news and this lead to confusion over where the artillery should be directing its fire. It was decided to keep to the fire plan until something was heard from Howe or 1/RM. The RND's artillery was being asked to assist on the 18th Divisions front where big problems were occurring.
www.royalnavaldivision.co.uk/mir1.htm
This query also appeared on a geneology forum as part of a request for more information.
15th/19th February 1917
My great uncle, Robert Bradfield, (8th Bttn Norfolk Regiment, Private, No.43577) was killed at Ancre. A relative discovered the following from the Norfolk Regimental Museum in Norwich. The men were moved into the front line on 15th February 1917. Battle commenced on 16th and lasted to the 19th. Robert died of wounds on 20th February 1917. There were 57 wounded but I don't know how many were killed.
archiver.rootsweb.ancestry.com/th/read/NORFOLK/2000-08/09...
Frank Matthews
Name: MATTHEWS, FRANK HERBERT JOHN
Rank: Lance Corporal Regiment/Service: Norfolk Regiment Unit Text: 1st Bn.
Age: 20 Date of Death: 23/04/1917 Service No: 316861
Additional information: Son of Philip Matthews, of Costessey, Norwich, and the late Agnes Matthews.
Grave/Memorial Reference: Bay 3. Memorial: ARRAS MEMORIAL
www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=780740
No match on Norlink
No obvious match on the 1901 Census.
23rd April 1917 - from the War diary of the 1st Battalion Bedfordshire Regiment who went into action alongside 1st Norfolks.
Appendix XII. OPERATION ORDER No.73. Map Reference VIMY Scale 1/10,000. 22nd April 1917.
1. ATTACK. The 5th Division will attack and capture S Trenches from VIMY-AVIONS Railway to the SOUCHEZ Railway.
2. POSITION. 15th Infantry Brigade will attack on the right. 95th Infantry Brigade will attack on the left. 15th Infantry Brigade will attack with first Battalion Norfolk Regiment and 1st Battalion Bedfordshire Regiment on the left. (95th Infantry Brigade on the left of 1st Bn. Bedfordshire Regiment.)
3. BOUNDARIES. 1st Bn. Bedfordshire Regiment – Right T.1.c.80/60 – T.1.d.10/90. Left S.6.central to junction of railway and road at N.31.c.95/90 exclusive.
4. OBJECTIVES. 1st Objective T.1.b.10/10 to T.1.b.0/6 thence to N.31.c.3/1. 2nd Objective T.1.b.60/85 to N.31.d.20/50 thence to 31.c.95/90.
5. BARRAGE. On German front line from Zero to Zero plus ten. German second line (1st objective) from Zero plus 10 to Zero plus 14. About 100 yards (1st objective) a pause of 24 minutes will be observed. It then creeps forward at a rate of 100 yards in 4 minutes until it reaches the outskirts of AVION.
6. GENERAL METHOD. A & B Companies will take the first objective with two platoons each in first wave and two platoons in second wave. A Coy. on the right, B Coy. on the left.
C & D Companies will take second objective, “C” on the right, “D” on the left.
Dividing line between Companies – T.1.a.7/7 (where LENS – ARRAS road crosses German second line) to N.31.d.3/3.
7. DETAILED METHOD. From 30 yards our side of Outpost Line.
A Company. 1st platoon of this company that moves will avoid CYRIL TRENCH on East side of the road and close to it will deploy 150 yards from the road. 2nd platoon will follow this one keeping along the road and from 200 yards to 400 yards will change direction man by man and lay in the ditch in the road. The advance will be made from the left about half hour after deployment. 3rd platoon will attack the triangle at T.1 central and enfiladed with -- (1) Bombs below ground (2) Lewis Guns on top – the WATER TOWER TRENCH and FOSSE No.7 TRENCH. 4th platoon will support the 3rd and act as Moppers Up for the whole company. Touch must be kept with the 1st Norfolk Regiment on the right and the whole triangle including junction of CYRIL TRENCH taken.
B Company. Right on LENS – ARRAS road and left on left boundary keeping touch with 95th Infantry Brigade. The first two platoons will go straight to their objectives and the second two platoons will get into the German front line and mop up.
C & D Companies will advance at 100 yards distance from assaulting companies and will get into A & B Companies objective as soon as it is taken. They will wait in this trench until barrage moves forward from stationary line Zero plus 38 when they will move forward to final objective behind the barrage.
8. Watches to be syncronised at Commanding Officers conference.
9. FIRING. There will be no firing or bombing until after barrage had opened. If parties are met they will be bayoneted.
10. COMMUNICATION. I Power Busser junction of A & B Companies in first objective. Visual should be possible at south end of same wall to a point to be notified.
11. CONTACT AEROPLANE. Will fly at Zero plus 1 hour and Zero plus 2 hours. Flares will be lit if called for by KLAXON HORN and in places as invisible as possible from the enemy. Only front line troops will light them.
12. S.O.S. See V.P.A.
13. TIME TABLE. Time table and detail for relief of 15th Bn. Royal Warwickshire Regiment as attached. Previous time tale to be cancelled.
14. ROYAL ENGINEERS. R.E. i/c section will report to Battalion headquarters at 2am.
15. PRISONERS. To be collected in CYRIL TRENCH. 16th Royal Warwickshire Regt. to arrange escorts.
16. ZERO HOUR. 4.45am
17. FLAGS. Flags will be carried and not stuck in the ground.
18. BATTALION H.Q. Battalion Headquarters at S.12.b.8/1
Please acknowledge.
(Signed) Beale Lt. & Adjt., 1st Battalion, Bedfordshire Regiment.
Report on action at La Coulotte.. Lt. Colonel P.B. Worrall M.C. Commanding 1st Battalion, Bedfordshire Regiment.
Sir, I have the honour to report that I received orders to attack LA COULOTTE from T.1.d.1/9 to T.1.a.3/9. and attach a copy of my Operation Orders which I personally explained in detail to all Officers and NCO’s. Briefly, I had to make:
(a) a frontal attack to the N.
(b) a flank attack East on WATER TOWER TRENCH.
AND (c) attack on triangle south of WATER TRENCH from the south, including a large part of CYRIL TRENCH held by the Germans.
The whole undertaking seemed to be most hazardous.
I considered the WATER TOWER TRENCH to be key to the situation and so attacked it frontally and in enfilade. Had I not got this footing, my Battalion must haave been wiped out by WATER TOWER TRENCH if we were held up by wire.
NARRATIVE.
4.40am. For half an hour previous to this I heard no M.G. fire and this proved a successful deployment.
5.15am. Two wounded reported that left company had reached 1st line German trench. It proved afterwards to be correct but with regard to extreme left only.
6.15am. 24 prisoners marched in from DEVONS and BEDFORDS captured at the junction of these two Battalions. 6.5am O.C. right assault company reported wounded but right company going through gaps. This Officer in charge and many others afterwards reported that it took at least five minutes to get through the wire, that there were few gaps, and a double belt (the first one 15 yards thick) in front of the first line.
7.05am. Touch with NORFOLKS reported.
7.55amj. Right 2nd wave (“C” Coy.) report they had passed through first objective (second German line) met with strong resistance, machine gun fire from houses and minerwerfer, but captured 9 prisoners (sent back), and 2 machine guns which they later smashed, and parties actually reached buildings T.1.b.5/9 and made a great attempt to rush LA COULOTTE from there, patrols were also sent out from there to try and get touch with the NORFOLKS , and companies on the left.
9.50am. NCO’s from “B” and “D” (left companies) reported that their right was held up, they had been surrounded and several prisoners had been taken. I have satisfied myself that these men were between two belts of wire with wire and a communication trench on the right from which they were enfiladed, and the gaps through which they had advanced were covered, and that they were bombed from the front and like rats in a trap.
Lt. Hunter from the right and who was on the other side of the road witnessed it and stated they were absolutely powerless.
10.00am. I sent orders to “A” and “C” to hang on and throw a defensive flank from junction of LENS-ARRAS ROAD and 1st German line and make strenuous efforts to get in touch with “B” and “D” .
11.05am. Lt. Woodford wounded, reported that “B” and “D” took the German 2nd line and were at once driven out of it with the exception of extreme left (communication trench T.1.a.30/95). Capt. C.A.S. Morris O.C. B Company was killed in rallying his men to make a gallant attack on machine guns, holding up their advance from 2nd line. At the same time I received a message that the remnants of A and C Companies were under 100 in WATER TOWER TRENCH and TRIANGLE, and that there were some NORFOLKS fighting with them and that they could not hold out much longer. They asked for reinforcements and bombs.
1.30pm. I applied at once for permission to conduct retirement in person but on this being refused I despatched Lt.H.J.EVERERTT MC with all available men from headquarters with 700 bombs and detailed orders for retirement if forced back, and I considered it imperative:
1. To hold the strong point in CYRIL TRENCH and not save the OUTPOST LINE
2. To evacuate my wounded (some 30) in the TUNNEL before evacuation.
My orders were more than carried out, the bombs were taken up under heavy fire, though some sent up by another Regiment failed to arrive, a splendid attack was led by a Sergeant of the NORFOLKS before the withdrawal, all the wounded were got away, and barricade strengthened before withdrawal.
[Cannot read time]. Verbal message received that A and C Companies had withdrawn to our original OUTPOST LINE and that Lt. H.J.EVERETT MC again sent up with a further supply of ammunition and bombs for strong point in CYRIL TRENCH.
[Cannot read time]. My position at the time of this withdrawal was:
1. About 60 men of “A” and “C”, all me effective rifles and some NORFOLKS from about T.1.a.6/7 to T.1.a.9/0 (German Front Line).
2. On my left from T.1.a.5/6 to T.1.a.1/8 the remnants of “B” and “D” lying out in front of German Wire till dusk, being continually bombed, grenaded and minenwerfened.
[Cannot read time]. A proportion of “B” and “D” Companies withdrew under the smoke of a protective barrage on German 2nd Line trench, to left of OLD OUTPOST LINE.
Copy of orders of my forced retirement attached.
I consider that my Officers, NCO’s and men showed great devotion to duty against untold odds, particularly wire and machine guns and I am forwarding under separate cover a list of recommendations.
I have the honour to be, Sir, your obedient servant
P.R.WORRALL, Lt.Colonel commanding 1st Battalion, Bedfordshire Regiment.
www.bedfordregiment.org.uk/1stbtn/1stbtn1917appendices.html
Arnold Randell
Name: RANDELL, ARNOLD
Rank: Private
Regiment: Royal Army Medical Corps
Unit Text: 45th Field Amb
Age: 28
Date of Death: 01/09/1917
Service No: 88228
Additional information: Son of Albert and Emma Randell, of Costessey, Norwich. Born Harleston, Norfolk.
Grave/Memorial Reference: XVIII. F. 5. Cemetery: LIJSSENTHOEK MILITARY CEMETERY
www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=147033
No match on Norlink
No obvious match on the 1901 Census.
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. From April to August 1918, the casualty clearing stations fell back before the German advance and field ambulances (including a French ambulance) took their places.
www.cwgc.org/search/cemetery_details.aspx?cemetery=14900&...
www.lijssenthoek.be/en/address/10652/-arnold-randell.html
Alfred Read
Possibly, otherwise no obvious match
Name: READ, ALFRED WILLIAM
Rank: Serjeant Regiment/Service: King's Royal Rifle Corps Unit Text: 9th Bn.
Age: 24 Date of Death: 12/04/1917 Service No: R/13223
Additional information: Son of Richard and Alice Read, of 15, Newmarket St., Norwich. Grave/Memorial Reference: VII. B. 15. Cemetery: WARLINCOURT HALTE BRITISH CEMETERY, SAULTY
www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=91604
No match on Norlink
The 1901 Census has the 8 year old Alfred living at Kings Street, Norwich. This was the household of his parents, Richard, a 41 year old Warehouse Porter from Norwich, and Alice, aged 38 and also from Norwich. Their other children are Elise, (aged 1), Ethel, (aged 11), Leopold, (age 3), Louisa, (age 16), and May, (aged 13).
WARLINCOURT HALTE BRITISH CEMETERY, SAULTY
The site of the cemetery was chosen in May 1916. It was used from June 1916 to May 1917 by the 20th and 43rd Casualty Clearing Stations, in February 1917 by the 1/1st South Midland, and from April to June 1917 by the 32nd. The whole of plots VII, VIII, IX and X were filled in April and May 1917, the months of the Battles of Arras. From June 1917, the cemetery was practically unused until the fighting of May and June 1918, when field ambulances buried in it. After the Armistice the cemetery was increased by graves brought in from the small military cemeteries at Gaudiempre, La Herliere and Couturelle.
www.cwgc.org/search/cemetery_details.aspx?cemetery=8700&a...
9th April 1917
Battle of Arras “The Harp”
The 9th Battalion attacked what was known as the String of the Harp trench system. Uncut wire and heavy machine gun fire caused many casualties, but the Battalion took and consolidated its objective. No tanks were present.
Losses: Officers 6 killed, 4 wounded. Other ranks. 204
www.krrcassociation.com/History/wf1917.htm
Given the history of the cemetery, there must be a strong possibility that Serjeant Read died of wounds received in the earlier attack.
George Barley
Name: BARLEY, GEORGE
Rank: Private Regiment/Service: Royal Fusiliers Unit Text: 4th Bn.
Age: 18 Date of Death: 31/08/1918 Service No: G/75434
Additional information: Son of George Barley, of Costessey, Norwich.
Grave/Memorial Reference: I. B. 29. Cemetery: H.A.C. CEMETERY, ECOUST-ST. MEIN
www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=303647
The 1901 Census has the 2 year George living at The Street, Costessey. This was the household of his parents, George, (age 39 and a Bricklayer from Costessey), and Emily, (aged 37 and from Norwich). The rest of their children are:-
Albert………………………………aged 3
Alice………………………………...aged 12
Anna………………………………..aged 9
Arthur G………………………….aged 15, Bricklayers Labourer
Edith………………………………..aged 11
Herbert…………………………….aged u/1
Laura………………………………..aged 6
Thomas…………………………….aged 7
William………………………………aged 14, Bakers Boy
The enemy positions from Doignies to Henin-sur-Cojeul, including the village of Ecoust, were captured on 2 April 1917, by the 4th Australian and 7th Divisions. This cemetery was begun by the 7th Division after the battle, when 27 of the 2nd H.A.C., who fell (with one exception) on the 31st March or the 1st April, were buried in what is now Plot I, Row A. After the German counter-attack near Lagnicourt on the 15th April, twelve Australian gunners were buried in the same row. Rows B, C and part of D were made in August and September 1918, when the ground had been recaptured by the 3rd Division after five months enemy occupation.
www.cwgc.org/search/cemetery_details.aspx?cemetery=31200&...
The 4th Battalion, as part of Third Division in the Third Army were involved in the Second Battles of the Somme in 1918, which ran from August 21st to the 3rd September 1918, one of which was the 2nd Battle of Bapaume, which ran from the 29th, when the New Zealanders took the town, to the 3rd.
www.historyofwar.org/articles/battles_bapaumeII.html
warpath.orbat.com/divs/3_div.htm
John Sissen
Name: SISSEN, JOHN
Rank: Private Regiment/Service: Royal Warwickshire Regiment Unit Text: 1st/8th Bn. Date of Death: 27/08/1917 Service No: 29375
Additional information: Son of Mrs. Edith Maria Sissen, of King's Villa, Costessey, Norwich, Norfolk.
Grave/Memorial Reference: Panel 23 to 28 and 163A. Memorial: TYNE COT MEMORIAL
www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=3064994
No match on Norlink
The 1901 Census has the 3 year John living at The Street, Costessey. This is the household of his parents, Henry, aged 49 and a Bricklayer from Costessey, and Edith, aged 30 and a Tailoress from Norwich. Their other children are Arthur, aged 6, Henry, aged 15 and a Shoemakers apprentice, Stephen, aged 8, and William, aged under 1.
A history of the 48th Division, of which the 1st/8th Warwicks were part, includes the following battle honours for 1917.
Local operations around St. Julian. 19, 22, 27 Aug 1917
www.ordersofbattle.darkscape.net/site/warpath/divs/48_div...
However, it would appear that the 143rd Brigade, which included the 1st/8ths, were the divisional reserve on this day, as only the 144th and 145th Brigades appear in these records of the action.
forum.irishmilitaryonline.com/showthread.php?t=11535&...
There is some family research on-line in connection with John.
www.martinzuerner.co.uk/descendants-chart.htm
www.youtube.com/watch?v=vNc2INfhqAw
This site has a (small) picture of John.
www.norfolkmills.co.uk/Watermills/costessey.html
Watson H Sparkes
Name: SPARKES, WATSON HENRY
Rank: Private Regiment/Service: Norfolk Regiment Unit Text: "A" Coy. 1st Bn.
Age: 21 Date of Death: 27/07/1916 Service No: 14031
Additional information: Son of Mr. and Mrs. Henry Sparkes, of Wensum Square, Costessey, Norwich.
Grave/Memorial Reference: Pier and Face 1 C and 1 D. Memorial: THIEPVAL MEMORIAL
www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=813718
No match on Norlink
The 1901 Census has the 5 year old Watson living at The Street, Costessey. This was the household of his parents, Henry W, aged 38 and a Journeyman Miller from Plumstead, London and Sarah E, aged 32 from East Beckham, Norfolk. Their other children are Ernest W, (aged under 1)and Leonard A, (aged 4).
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/1stbtn/1stbtn1916appendices.html
William C White
No obvious match on CWGC
No match on Norlink
The 1901 Census has the 14 year old William living at The Street, Costessey. This was the household of his parents Albert, a 40 year old Carpenter from Costessey, and Harriet, aged and originally from Brandon, Suffolk. Their other children are Annie, aged 12, Eleanor, aged 6 and Gertrude, aged 9.
CHAPMAN, ARTHUR
Rank:…………………......Squadron Quartermaster Serjeant
Service No:…………….3749
Date of Death:………..10/09/1914
Age:……………………......40
Regiment/Service:….Army Ordnance Corps
…………………………........No. 6 Coy.
Grave Reference:……26. 308.
Cemetery:………………..NORWICH CEMETERY, NORFOLK
Additional Information:
Son of Mr. and Mrs. Walter Chapman; husband of P. E. Chapman, of Lawn House, Carrow Rd., Norwich
CWGC: www.cwgc.org/find-war-dead/casualty/2803086/CHAPMAN,%20AR...
No match on SDGW
No obvious Medal Index Card
Some of his Service Records have survived and are included in the Pension Records for his wife.
Arthur Chapman, aged 20 years and 9 months, enlisted at Great Yarmouth on the 5th September 1894 for a standard service of 7 years in the Army and 5 years in the Reserves with the Royal Artillery. His initial service number was 5632. On his attestation form he gives his birthplace as the parish of West Wymer in the town of Norwich. He was a Clerk and had served previously with the 1st Volunteer Battalion of the Norfolk Regiment. He was 5 feet 8 and a quarter inches tall, weighed 134lbs, had a Pale Complexion with Light Brown Hair and Grey Eyes. Although passed fit at his Medical there is an advisory. Unfortunately its written by a Doctor so of course its illegible – possibly something to do with his Chest. His certificate of suitability for Military Service is signed by the Adjutant of the 4th Battalion Norfolk Regiment. (That unit had previously been the 1st Volunteer Battalion).
After an initial spell at the Depot, he joined the 16th Company on the 31st October 1894. On the 1st January 1898 he was transferred to the Army Ordnance Corps.
From the 19th December 1894 to the 25th March 1899 he served in Egypt. He then had six months back in the UK before being shipped out to South Africa on the 16th September 1899, staying there until the 2nd June 1903.
He was appointed Lance Corporal on the 20th November 1899, 2nd Corporal on the 20th January 1901 and Corporal on the 10th May 1902. On the 20th June 1902 he extended his service to a full 12 years in the Colours. There is a stamp to say that he has received the South African War Gratuity. He received the Kings South African Medal with clasps for the Transvaal and the Defence of Ladysmith.
His next of kin was initially his father, Mr Walter Chapman of 38 Russell Street, Norwich, but subsequently it was his wife. He married Eleanor Patience Forster at St Peters Parmentergate, Norwich on the 30th June 1903. The Officiating Minister was J L Poole and the witnesses were John James Jackson and Martha Mary Forster. (When she completed the pension form, Patience gives her date of birth as the 22nd September 1873).
On the 16th May 1904 their first child, Nellie Irene Mary Chapman, was born at York. She was baptised on the 5th June 1904
On the 6th July 1904 he was promoted Lance Sergeant but three days later that was changed to full Sergeant. On the 23rd March 1905 he extended his service to the full 21 years. A second child, Arthur William, was born at Norwich on the 1st February 1906. From the 16th March 1907 to the 14th December 1908 he was stationed at Singapore before returning to the UK.
On the 7th June 1909 he was promoted S.Sergeant (Squadron?). He passed the qualifying exam for the rank of Squadron Quarter Master Sergeant on the 1st November 1909, subsequently being promoted on the 27th August 1910. On the 27th November 1909 a third child, Russell Walter, was born when he was stationed at the Curragh in Ireland.
1911 would be a tragic year for the family. Russell died on the 13th January while Nellie died on the 1st November, (or possibly the 11th January – the 1 has been written above the 11.11 date).
On the 23rd June 1912 a fourth child was born, Leah Marjorie, at Dover.
In April 1913 he was awarded Long Service and Good Conduct Medals. This last note was signed by the “O.C. Dover Sect: No.6 Coy: A.O.C.” On the 27th August 1913 he got a pay increase for his loyal service.
He died at the 4th London General Hospital, Denmark Hill on the 10th September 1914 at 9.45 p.m.
The correspondence with Mrs Chapman starts practically straight away. She completes a Pension application in October 1914 and also asks if she can get a Certificate to show her husband died on Active Service as a Masonic School will then give her children free education. On the 2nd November 1914 the pension application was forwarded on by his unit to the Records Office whilst on the 7th, having heard from the hospital, a letter confirming Active Service death was sent to Mrs Chapman.
A report was requested from the officer he was working under at the time, Captain F.W.R. Hill, D.A.D.O.S., 1st London Division. He wrote it from Crowboro on the 28th September 1914.
“This N.C.O. joined the 1st London Division for duty on the 14th August last at Friars House, New Broad St., London, and took up his duties as my chief clerk. I had no other clerk, consequently all the clerical duties fell on him. These were heavy owing to mobilization, and necessitated long working hours, generally about 12 to 14 per day. On the 25th August the Division moved to Bisley and encamped, and he had to perform his duties under service conditions in a tent. On the 3rd Sept., about 10 p.m., some mistake he had made caused me to ask him whether anything was the matter or if he was ill. He then told me he had been ill for some time. I told him that if he was ill, he should report sick. This he did on Saturday morning. I wrote to the M.O. and asked him to let me know if it was a case for admission to hospital so that I could wire for a relief, and also whether it would be detrimental to the man if he remained at duty till his relief arrived. The sick report was marked “light duty”. I wrote to the A.D.M.S, of the Division and he said I ought to get a relief, so I tried for one. S.Q.M.S. Chapman told me he could continue his work till the relief arrived, and did his work on Saturday and Sunday, 5th & 6th Sept. I was out on duty on Sunday, and when I returned I heard that he had collapsed and been taken to hospital. I had no idea he was so ill, and I think he continued doing his work when he knew he was really not up to it from a sense of duty owing to the war.
I understand he died from an internal complaint, in which case he probably required a special diet, which of course he did not get while he remained at duty and drew the Field Service rations.”
The Medical Report by the Registrar at the Hospital confirms that the illness was not due to his own fault or negligence, but also could not be attributed as having been contracted whilst on Active Service. His condition, a gastric ulcer, had been present for some months, and “Hoematemis was the terminal event of a long process”.
Mrs Chapman mentions in her letter dated 18th December 1915 chasing up for news on the award of a pension “my husband was kept at work until he dropped even after he had gone sick and should have been sent to hospital, and I have his letters in which he wrote he couldn’t leave them in a hole and was waiting for his relief and that he was working very hard and many hours. And the doctor at the hospital told me he has come too late to have done for him what could have been done had he gone sooner, and also that he should never have been taken to London from Bisley Camp in the condition he was”
This seems to be the crux of the delay, along with the scandal of the delay in paying War Pensions during the early years of the war. There was a question of whether the disease from which Arthur died could be certified as caused or contracted on active service.
It took until January 1916 for a pension to be sorted out for Patience and her children. However the letter sent to tell her was sent to 95 Folkestone Road, Dover. This was returned in April 1918 as “Not Known”.
At the time the Medals were being issued at the start of 1921, the Pension Issue Office held an address of 8 Carlyle Road, City Road, Norwich for his widow.
His Dover connection has led to his story also being researched by the Dover War Memorial Project.
www.doverwarmemorialproject.org.uk/Casualties/CWGC/WWI%20...
1881 Censuses of England and Wales & Scotland
I could not originally find Arthur on these censuses, but armed with the details from the 1891 census I took another look. The Chapman family were already living at Russell Street, but the exact address isn’t shown. As well as parents Walter, (31, Bricklayer, born Norwich) and Louisa, (28, born Norwich), children then living with them are Eliza, (7), Arthur, (5), Ellen, (4) and Walter, (2) – all born Norwich.
Until 1911 the census information would be gathered by census takers going door to door. They would have been dependant on the quality of the information given them verbally, which be impacted by mis-communication as a result of local accents and lack of realistic local knowledge on the part of the census taker. They then had four weeks to write up the census schedule based on their notes collected on the day, with follow up visits to clarify any uncertainties. There was lots of scope therefore for errors to creep in and I suspect somewhere along the line the ages of Eliza and Arthur got swapped.
His future wife, the 7 year old Eleanor P Forster, was recorded living in a dwelling on Waddington Street, North Heigham, Norwich. This was the household of her parents, “Jos. B”, (aged 34, no occupation, born Norwich) and Martha, (aged 33, Dressmaker, born Norwich). Eleanor has 4 siblings and 3 step – siblings. As the two groups are broadly comparable in age, I suspect Martha is the second wife of ‘Jos” and is in fact Eleanors’ step-mother.
1891 Censuses of England and Wales & Scotland
The 17 year old Arthur Chapman, a Shoemaker, born Norwich, was recorded living at 38 Russell Street, Heigham, Norwich. This was the household of his parents, Walter, (aged 40 and a Bricklayer, born Norwich) and Louisa, (aged 37, born Norwich). As well as Arthur, the couples other children living with them are:-
Eliza….aged 15….born Norwich…Tailoress
Ellen….aged 14….born Norwich…Shoe Fitter
Walter..aged 12…..born Norwich
Edith…aged 8…….born Norwich
Herbert.aged 5……born Norwich
Ernest...aged 3……born Norwich
Eva…aged 9 months..born Norwich
There is no obvious match for his future wife on this census.
1899 – 1902 Boer War
According to the Army List of December 1900 the companies of the Ordnance Department in South Africa were the 1st to the 6th and the 9th to the 11th. In his final despatch Lord Roberts said: "This department has had an immense amount of work during the campaign, and under the capable direction of Colonel R Noel Clarke has carried it out in a very satisfactory manner. The military operations covered a vast area, and only two single lines of railway were available, and these were so congested with troops, horses, and material of all sorts, that to get stores to the front in good time was always a matter of uncertainty. That they were able to cope with these difficulties and keep the army supplied with all the various stores that are dealt with by the department, reflects great credit not only on Colonel Clarke, but also on the officers, warrant officers, non-commissioned officers, and men under him". Lord Roberts gives some figures showing the stores passing through the department up to the time his lordship left South Africa. Two little items are 122 million rounds of small-arm ammunition; 2 million pairs of horse and mule shoes.
www.angloboerwar.com/unit-information/imperial-units/579-...
1901 Censuses of England and Wales & Scotland
Arthur would have been in South Africa at the time of this census, so is not recorded.
His parents were still living at 38 Russell Street, Norwich. Walter, (50, Bricklayer) and Louisa, (46) live there with their children, Ellen, (24, shoe & boot fitter), Walter, (22, boot laster), Herbert, (15, Bricklayer), Eva, (10) and Florence, (8, born Norwich). Also in he household is Walters sister-in-law, Elizabeth Francis, (single, 47 and a housemaid, born Norwich).
There is no obvious match for his future wife on this census.
30th June 1903 Marriage
(Date from Service Records)
The marriage of an Arthur Chapman to an Eleanor Patience Forster was recorded in the Norwich District in the April to June quarter, (Q2), of 1903.
The marriage of Arthur Chapman, a Bachelor aged 29 to Eleanor Patience Forster, a Spinster aged 29, took place at St Peter Parmentergate, Norwich, on the 30th June 1903. Arthur was a soldier living at 38 Russell Street. Eleanor lived at 31 Rose Lane, Norwich. His father was Walter Chapman, Builder, while hers was Joseph Bilyard Forster, a Whitesmith. The wedding followed the reading of the Banns.
freereg2.freereg.org.uk/search_records/58183bebe93790eb7f...
1911 Census of England and Wales
The 37 year old Arthur Chapman, a Squadron Sergeant in the Army Ordnance Corps, was recorded living at 18 Tower Hamlets Road, Dover, Kent. This was the household of his married brother-in-law, William Henry Hurley, aged 38 and a Grocers Assistant at the Home & Colonial Stores who was born Saffron Walden, Essex. Williams wife is Leah, (? – tbc) Hurley, (aged 41 and born Norwich). The couple have been married 12 years and have had no children.
Arthur was living there with his wife of 8 years, the 37 year old Patience Eleanor, born Norwich. The couple have had three children, but only one was now alive, (see the relevant part of his service record above). Their son living with them is Arthur William, aged 5 and born Norwich.
His parents were still living at 38 Russell Street, Norwich, and father Walter, (60), still works as a Bricklayer. His mother, aged 57 and born Norwich, is however shown as Emma Chapman. As the couple have been married 36 years it is not a case of Walter being widowed and then remarried, so seems to be the name she was now known by. The couple have had 14 children but only 7 were then still alive. Still single and living with them are Herbert, (25, Bricklayer), Eva, (21, Boot Fitter), Florance, (18, Dressmaker).
Post August 1911 it became compulsory when registering a birth with the Civil Authorities in England and Wales to also record the mothers maiden name. Checking the General Registrars Office Index of Births for England and Wales shows that children registered with the combination of surname Chapman, mothers maiden name Forster is relatively common. However, checking for the daughter shown as born 1912 on Arthurs’ service records does indeed confirm that there is a Leah M Chapman, mothers maiden name Forster, whose birth was registered in the Dover District in the July to September quarter, (Q3), of 1912.
On the day
From his service records it would appear he died from a burst stomach ulcer, probably brought on by the circumstances of the last few weeks of his life.
He died at No.4 London General Hospital, Denmark Hill.
The death of an Arthur Chapman, aged 40, was recorded in the Lambeth District of London in the July to September quarter, (Q3), of 1914.
The 1914 Probate Calendar records that an Arthur Chapman of 24, Clarendon Place, Dover, died 10th September 1914 at King’s College Hospital, Middlesex. Administration was granted at the London Court on the 19th October 1914 to Patience Eleanor Chapman, widow. His effects were valued at £95.
probatesearch.service.gov.uk/Calendar#calendar
Postscript
It does not look as though Patience remarried – at least as far as the records for England and Wales are concerned. There is a death recorded for a Patience E Chapman in the Hitchin District of Hertfordshire in the July to September quarter of 1966, aged 92, which would make her year of birth circa 1873/1874.
There is no obvious Civil Probate for that woman.
In Treasured memories of
KAUSKI
The beloved husband of
AMY BRITCHER
Died Dec. 17th 1935,
Aged 48 years.
Also AMY, his wife
Died April 20th 1981
Aged 93 years
Also of their children
JOHN
Killed at El Alamein Oct. 24th – 25th 1942
Aged 21 years
And JOAN AMY,
Died June 2????
Aged 36 years.
BRITCHER, JOHN EDWARD
Rank:………………………….......Private
Service No:…………………….5783208
Date of Death:……………….25/10/1942
Age:…………………………….....21
Regiment:………………………The Queen's Royal Regiment (West Surrey)
………………………………….......1/5th Bn.
Panel Reference:……………Column 54.
Memorial:………………………..ALAMEIN MEMORIAL
Additional Information:
Son of Kawski and Amy Louise Britcher, of Norwich.
CWGC: www.cwgc.org/find-war-dead/casualty/2119865/BRITCHER,%20J...
The Army Roll of Honour 1939-1945 records that Private 5783208 John E Britcher died serving in the Middle East Theatre of War with The Queens Royal Regiment (West Surrey) on the 25th October 1942. He was born and resident Norwich.
John is remembered on the Hellesdon War Memorial, to the north of the city.
(See comment box below for picture link)
No obvious Soldiers Will or Civil Probate for this man.
1886 /87 – Birth of Kawski Britcher
The birth of a “Kowski” Britcher was registered with the Civil Authorities in the District of Norwich in the January to March quarter, (Q1), of 1887.
1887 / 88 – Birth of Amy Louise
This is calculated from her age on the headstone. However from the marriage and subsequent childrens births details there is some confusion as to Amy’s maiden name – see below.
The only likely Amy “Louisa” Chapman as far as births in England and Wales are concerned was born in the Pancras District of London in the January to March quarter, (Q1), of 1888.
There was however an Amy Louise Crisp whose birth was registered in the Norwich District in the July to September quarter, (Q3), of 1887.
When Amy Louisa Britcher died in 1981 the published index of deaths included the information that she was born 3rd July 1887.
1891 Census of England and Wales
The 4 year old “Coskie” Britcher, born Norwich, was recorded living at Albert Tavern, 57 Devonshire Street, Norwich. This was the household of his parents, Edward, (aged 37, a Licensed Victualler and Bricklayer, born Norwich) and Emma, (aged 37, born Norwich). As well as Corski the couples other children living with them are:-
Thomas…aged 14….born Norwich…occupation ?Pub?
Edward….aged 12….born Norwich…occupation ?Pub?
Emma……aged 10…born Norwich
Florence…aged 8…..born Norwich
Ethel…….aged 6……born Norwich
Ellen…….aged 5……born Norwich
Charles….aged 2……born Norwich
Mary A….aged 1……born Norwich
The most likely match for his future wife is the 4 year old Amy L Crisp, born Norwich, who was recorded living at 5 Otley Road, Shipley, West Yorkshire. This was the household of her parents, John, (aged 51, a Greengrocer from Norwich), and Hannah, (aged 35, born Sprowston, Norfolk). Amy has two older brothers living with her, Herbert, (16) and Arthur A, (15) both born Norwich and both working as Mill Hands.
1901 Census of England and Wales
On the Genealogy site I use for census look-ups, the family surname has been mis-transcribed as “Butcher”, although looking at a scan of the original return, its very easy to understand why. The family were still living at 57 Devonshire Street, but father Edward, (48), is now only recorded as a Bricklayer. He lives there with his wife Emma, (48) and their children Emma, (20, Boot Machinist), Florence, (18, Tailoress), Ethel, (16, Tailoress), Ellen, (15, Boot Machinist), “Rawski”, (14, Errand Boy), Charles, (12), Maryann, (10), May?, (8) and John, (3) – all born Norwich.
The Crisp family have now moved back to Norwich and were living at 61 Heath Road. As well as parents John, (64, Greengrocer) and Hannah, (45) there are children Amy, (13) and Walter, (8, born Shipley).
1911 Census of England and Wales
The Butcher family were now living at 2 Eade Road, Norwich. Parents Edward Thomas, (57, Bricklayer & Plasterer) and Emma, (57), have been married 24 years and have had 11 children, all of which were then still alive. Children still single and living at home were Ellen, (25, Trouser Hand in a Clothing Factory), Kawski, (24, Bricklayer & Plasterer), Mary, (21, Boot Fitter), May, (17, Boot Machinist) and John, (13).
The Crisp family were at 1 Shorncliffe Street, Junction Road, Norwich. Parents John, (72, retired Greengrocer, born St Giles, Norwich) and Hannah, (56), have been married 27 years and have had 2 children of their own, both then still alive. These were Amy “Louisa”, (23), a Boot Shop Assistant, and Walter, (18, Currier). They also have a young Anglican clergyman boarding with them.
Great War
A 28 year old Kawski Britcher enlisted at Great Yarmouth in 1916 and saw service with the Royal Engineers. His service number was 108684.
familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:QVBR-2SDW
There is no likely Medal Index Card for that soldier, so its almost certain he saw service on the home front only.
1920 Marriage
The marriage of a Kawski Britcher to an Amy L. Chapman was recorded in the Norwich District in the October to November quarter, (Q4), of 1920.
Until September 1911 the quarterly index published by the General Registrars Office did not show information about the mothers maiden name. A check of the General Registrars Office Index of Birth for England and Wales 1911 – 1983 shows no children registered with the surname Britcher, mothers maiden name Chapman, anywhere in England and Wales before 1966. Tracking down the birth of John E. K Britcher in the July to September quarter of 1921 in the Norwich District shows his mothers maiden name was Crisp. And a further check of the index shows only one other match for this combination – a Joan A Britcher whose birth was registered with the Civil Authorities in the Norwich District in the July to September quarter, (Q3), of 1924.
The most likely explanation was that Amy had been widowed and indeed there was a marriage of an Amy L Crisp to a Frank R Chapman in the St Faiths District of Norfolk in the October to December quarter, (Q4) of 1912. However I could not find a likely death for Frank either in the war or in the Civil deaths registers for England and Wales or the Civil Probate Calendar.
1935
The death of the 49 year Kawski Britcher was recorded in the Norwich District in the October to December quarter, (Q4), of 1935.
The 1936 Probate Calendar records that “Kowski” Britcher of 134 Dereham Road, Norwich, died on the 17th December 1935. Administration was granted at the Norwich Court on the 9th March 1936 to Amu Lou Britcher, widow. His effects were valued at £1,537 18s 11d.
probatesearch.service.gov.uk/Calendar?surname=Britcher&am...
There is no obvious record on the 1939 register for John Britcher. The 1939 National Register was a mini-census which was used to do a stocktake of the nations skills, (with the view to making best use of the available resources in the event of war) and as the basis for the issue of ID cards and ration books.
On the day
An elaborate deception programme was instituted with dummy stores dumps, dummy vehicle parks and tank units, a dummy fresh water pipeline, and enhanced wireless activity in the XIII Corps area. 8th Armoured Division was disbanded, but its Headquarters staff continued to maintain bogus communications traffic and simulate the movement of units in order to give the impression that the armoured component of XIII Corps had been reinforced. Somehow Axis reconnaissance aircraft always found it easier to penetrate the southern sector than to cross over into the northern sector; and of course the twin peaks of Himeimat had conveniently been left in enemy hands after the battle of Alam Halfa, from which there was a large area of visual observation! The basic ambiguity about all these helpful observation facilities available to the enemy was that the ex-British forward minefield February now formed the main Axis defensive minefield in this sector; the ex-British minefield January was now the enemy’s forward minefield; and XIII Corps had been forced to set out two additional minefields, Nuts and May, for their own defence. This made it difficult for any serious attack to be concealed, and furthermore meant that approach marches became extended affairs.
The specific task of 131 Brigade was to form bridgeheads beyond the January and February minefields between Deir El Munassib and Himeimat through which the 44th Recce Regiment, a unit equipped entirely with carriers, would pass, to be followed through by units of the 22nd Armoured Brigade as the situation permitted. If a clean breakthrough was achieved, then the armoured cars, Stuarts and Grants of the 4th Light Armoured Brigade could be sent through to drive west to the Jebel Kalakh and the Taqa Plateau. The actual gaps through the minefields would be made by Matilda tanks fitted with flails, known as Scorpions. An elaborate deception programme was instituted with dummy stores dumps, dummy vehicle parks and tank units, a dummy fresh water pipeline, and enhanced wireless activity in the XIII Corps area. 8th Armoured Division was disbanded, but its Headquarters staff continued to maintain bogus communications traffic and simulate the movement of units in order to give the impression that the armoured component of XIII Corps had been reinforced. Somehow Axis reconnaissance aircraft always found it easier to penetrate the southern sector than to cross over into the northern sector; and of course the twin peaks of Himeimat had conveniently been left in enemy hands after the battle of Alam Halfa, from which there was a large area of visual observation! The basic ambiguity about all these helpful observation facilities available to the enemy was that the ex-British forward minefield February now formed the main Axis defensive minefield in this sector; the ex-British minefield January was now the enemy’s forward minefield; and XIII Corps had been forced to set out two additional minefields, Nuts and May, for their own defence. This made it difficult for any serious attack to be concealed, and furthermore meant that approach marches became extended affairs.
The specific task of 131 Brigade was to form bridgeheads beyond the January and February minefields between Deir El Munassib and Himeimat through which the 44th Recce Regiment, a unit equipped entirely with carriers, would pass, to be followed through by units of the 22nd Armoured Brigade as the situation permitted. If a clean breakthrough was achieved, then the armoured cars, Stuarts and Grants of the 4th Light Armoured Brigade could be sent through to drive west to the Jebel Kalakh and the Taqa Plateau. The actual gaps through the minefields would be made by Matilda tanks fitted with flails, known as Scorpions.The 1/7th Queen’s was detailed for the attack through January as the first phase of the operation, whilst 1/5th and 1/6th Queen’s would then come up on the left to cross February and form a bridgehead on the far side. The battle along the whole front was scheduled to start on the night of the 23rd/24th October during the full moon.
The 1/7th Queen’s had suffered heavily in their battle against the Folgore and German 22nd Parachute Brigade units manning this part of the line. Lt Col Burton and four other officers had been killed or died of wounds, and six officers were wounded, with 179 other ranks killed, wounded or missing. However, they had secured the right flank of the XIII Corps attack, and the Royal Engineers attached to the Battalion were the first to clear a gap through the January minefield and most of the 5th Royal Tank Regiment went through.
Although the southernmost gap breached the February minefield too during the night, the light armour which got through suffered such heavy losses that the situation could not be exploited. Moreover the surviving sappers and Scorpions were now not numerous enough to complete their tasks through February before daylight, so the 1/5th and 1/6th Queen’s were not brought up to begin the second phase of guarding a bridgehead beyond February.
At about 11am Brigadier Frith and the commanding officers of the 1/5th and 1/6th Queen’s went to meet Major General A.F.’John’ Harding, GOC 7th Armoured Division, and were informed of a change of plan, which involved an attack by the remaining two battalions of the Brigade that night in order to deal with the enemy positions on the far side of February; establish a firm bridgehead; and to take their carriers and antitank guns through the two northern gaps in front of the armour, so that the tank units could debouch on the other side of the minefield as originally planned for the first night. For this operation 131 Brigade was to come under command 7th Armoured Division. Warning orders were issued to the two battalions, and the brigade commander and the two commanding officers were taken up in tanks to view the ground. A plan was then made to attack on an 800 yard front with 1/5th Queen’s on the right and 1/6th Queen’s on the left. Each battalion was to have a frontage of 400 yards, the axis of advance being gap No. 2, which was also to be the battalions’ boundary (inclusive to 1/6th Queen’s). The start line was to be some 400 yards beyond January, marked by a line of Grant tanks from the Scots Greys. Zero hour was set at 9pm, but the distances to the forming up points by march route, the arranging of an evening meal, liaison with the Royal Engineers and artillery in a strange division, led almost inevitably to a postponement of 11/2 hours.
Both battalions were in position 300 yards behind the start line at 10.15pm, and got off to an excellent start behind the barrage. Because of the good knowledge now available of the enemy’s deployment, it was possible to divide the artillery support into three parts; a reduced moving barrage, thus cutting down the amount of dust and smoke which had so hindered 1/7th Queen’s attack; concentrations on known enemy positions; and counter battery fire. 1/6th Queen’s had suffered a number of casualties from anti-personnel mines crossing January, including three officers wounded, but 1/5th Queen’s had used gap No. I through January and was unscathed. However, both battalions began to suffer casualties from the barrage, reporting that at least one gun was falling short, lifting late, or both. Each battalion advanced ‘two up’, with 1/5th Queen’s ‘A’ Company forward right, ‘B’ Company forward left, followed by ‘C’ Company behind ‘A’ Company and ‘D’ Company on the left, whilst 1/6th Queen’s had their ‘D’ Company forward right, ‘C’ Company forward left, ‘A’ Company right rear and ‘B’ Company left rear.
At about 11pm the minefield was reached and crossed with little or no opposition from the enemy, although 1/5th Queen’s, in particular, suffered a few casualties from anti-personnel mines and some random shellfire. Major R.E. Clarke, the Battalion 2i/c, was one of those hit by shellfire and died later in hospital. During the crossing of the minefield it became increasingly difficult to keep touch owing to the smoke and dust, and the inner flanks of the two battalions became a bit mixed. On the far side, however, some enemy positions were encountered and overrun, with a number of prisoners taken. After advancing about 800 yards beyond February both battalions halted and attempted to dig in. 1/5th Queen’s were unfortunate in having an enemy machine-gun about 200 yards to their right front, with another enemy post nearby. Every effort was made to capture these, but they were too well sited, and the second post was wired in as well. As a result movement became impossible, and companies had to dig in lying flat on the ground. Much the same happened to 1/6th Queen’s, who were subjected to particularly heavy mortar fire.
The sappers succeeded in clearing the two gaps through the minefield by the early hours of the morning, and at about 2.30am the tanks of the 4th County of London Yeomanry began negotiating the gaps, although the pickets on which the lamps were mounted were too far apart and the spaces between were not filled with wire, which was the usual practice. As a result some of the tanks lost their way and wandered off the cleared path, blowing up in the minefield. Other tanks were knocked out by anti-tank guns sited beyond the Queen’s positions. In all the 4th County of London Yeomanry lost twenty-six of their tanks together with their commanding officer and 2i/c. South of gap No. 2 an 88mm gun was firing along the edge of the minefield, hitting tanks of the 1st Royal Tank Regiment as they came through. Highly conscious of the need to conserve his armour, Major General Harding stopped their further attempts to pass through February. This left the two Queen’s battalions out in the open with no armour to support them, subjected to heavy mortar, machine-gun and rifle fire. In fact, since the armoured units retired back through January so as not to be exposed for a second day between the two minefields, the battalions were left some 2,000 yards in advance of the nearest support.
The Queen’s positions were so exposed that it was impossible for men to raise their heads above ground in most areas, and it was, therefore, very difficult to obtain any accurate picture of events during the hours of daylight. 2/Lt P.B. Kingsford was a platoon commander in ‘A’ Company of the 1/5th Queen’s, and spent most of the day pinned down by machine-gun fire. He has written the following account of his experiences during the 25th October :-
“The 1/6th Queen’s were on our left but were being heavily mortared during the 25th. No tanks got through to support us as the gap in the minefield was being enfiladed from El Himeimat (‘two pimples’) which had been recaptured by the Germans.
The first sign of hope was when in the evening Italian parachutists in front of my platoon surrendered. I was short of men and sent my runner (Keohane by name) back with twenty-odd POWS!
The 1/6th Battalion thought we were being made prisoners and, as a result of heavy mortar fire, they were captured. After this all the mortars came on us and we had severe casualties. We could not go forward as German parachutists had taken over the Italian pill boxes, so Colonel East decided to make a dash back when darkness came, but things got so bad that he and a handful left before dark.
I had been shot through the leg and shrapnel went into my left thigh, and I was picked up next morning and taken to enemy trenches in the rear (which we had passed earlier). When I got up, I noticed a mortar bomb stuck in the rock an inch or two from my head! It had not gone off and, in retrospect, I realised I had been temporarily unconscious when it landed.”
Many years later Paul Kingsford heard from the Ministry of Defence that Pte C.M. Keohane had been killed on that day. He can only presume that Keohane detonated a mine whilst making his way back to the platoon. The capture of some of the 1/6th that he describes probably refers to the incident when Lt Col D.L.A. Gibbs and most of his Battalion Headquarters staff were taken prisoner together with Capt I.P. Thomson and Major G.J. Collins. Lt Col Dennis Gibbs and Capt Ian Thomson escaped from their prison camp in Italy and both took an active part in the later stages of the war. Paul Kingsford spent two and a half years in prison camps in Italy and Germany.
Pte S. Gray was Lt A.C.F. Norman’s batman in 1/6th Queen’s. He remembered Lt Norman as being such a proficient officer that he always passed with top marks when he went on courses, and always got his platoon to the right place! He wrote :-
“We moved up to where the tanks were, waiting for the off. The time came for us to fix bayonets and get to the tapes. We moved off. The creeping barrage started and in no time at all there was screaming and crying out in pain as the men were walking on the anti-personnel mines. Our artillery was screaming over our heads. After a while, you could not say we got used to it, but I think our minds just blocked out all the noise, and we carried on as if we were on a stunt back home.
Going through the minefield I had a chap at the side of me with a tommy-gun. The first trench load of the enemy we came across the chap with the tommy-gun just opened up on them. They were lying on top of one another. They had no fight in them. I left him and went forward and came across another trench full. They were long trenches and held about 20 odd soldiers. They were all kneeling and leaning on one another. I would not have got any pleasure out of shooting them in the back, so I shouted and swore at them to get out. We were not allowed to take POWs back, nor were we allowed to take our wounded back. What I wanted, if I got them all out, would be to point in the direction I wanted them to go. Unfortunately for them, in front of us behind the dannert wire, the Germans were on the high ground and could see at least our shadows if not us. Then a shell came over and landed right on the enemy. It blew them to pieces, yet I felt nothing. So I moved forward and ran into some machine-gun fire. I hit the deck and my officer was at the side of me. Every time I tried to move there was more fire. In fact it was impossible to move without being shot to pieces.
So after quite a long while lying in the open not daring to move, it was on the point of getting light. So I said to the officer, ‘It’s coming up to sun-up. Then they will pick us off’. He said, ‘Pass the word around, every man for himself, and find a hole to get into’. Strange as it seems, a cloud came over the moon, which gave us the chance to move. But as we did so, over came mortars and shells and got some of the chaps. I and another chap found an empty German trench. Mortars and shells kept coming in our direction.
Eventually we got back to our lines. There were only three of us who had been at the dannert wire and got back. They were Lt Norman, Alf Doyle, who came from Holborn in London, and myself.”
During the day General Montgomery authorised XIII Corps to break off the attack. The Queen’s battalions were much too exposed to be of any further value, and Lt Col East and Major F.A.H. Wilson, who had taken over command of 1/6th Queen’s, made arrangements for a withdrawal through February. On arrival back, however, they were told that 132 Brigade was to take over the position behind February, and the whole of 131 Brigade was taken out that night to a position behind Nuts minefield. The initial part of the withdrawals were carried out under intense fire, and much hampered by the lack of effective communications.
Once again the casualties had been severe. 1/5th Queen’s lost one officer killed, four officers wounded, three officers missing, with other rank casualties of 10 killed, 47 wounded and 53 missing. 1/6th Queen’s had three officers killed, four wounded and three missing (known to have been taken prisoner) with 5 men killed, 42 wounded and 142 missing. Many of the missing eventually proved to have been killed or wounded.
www.queensroyalsurreys.org.uk/ww2/middle_east/qme015.html
There is no Obvious Soldiers Will or Civil Probate for John.
Postscript
The death of his sister, Joan A Britcher, aged 36, was recorded in the Norwich Outer District in the April to June quarter, (Q2), of 1961.
The 1961 Probate Calendar records that Joan Amy Britcher, spinster, of 13 Eversley Road, Upper Hellesdon, Norfolk, died on the 25th June 1961. Administration was granted at the Norwich Court on the 6th October to Amy Louisa Britcher, widow. Her effects were valued at £1,045.
probatesearch.service.gov.uk/Calendar#calendar
The death of Amy Louise Britcher, born 3rd July 1887, was recorded in the Norwich District in the April to June quarter, (Q2), of 1981.
The 1981 Probate Calendar records that Amy Louise Britcher, of The Walnuts, 149 Dereham Road, Norwich, died on the 20th April 1981. Probate was granted at the Ipswich Court on the 17th August. Her estate was valued at £28,565.
Live Worthy of their example.
1914-1919
John Sissen
Name: SISSEN, JOHN
Rank: Private Regiment/Service: Royal Warwickshire Regiment Unit Text: 1st/8th Bn. Date of Death: 27/08/1917 Service No: 29375
Additional information: Son of Mrs. Edith Maria Sissen, of King's Villa, Costessey, Norwich, Norfolk.
Grave/Memorial Reference: Panel 23 to 28 and 163A. Memorial: TYNE COT MEMORIAL
www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=3064994
No match on Norlink
The 1901 Census has the 3 year John living at The Street, Costessey. This is the household of his parents, Henry, aged 49 and a Bricklayer from Costessey, and Edith, aged 30 and a Tailoress from Norwich. Their other children are Arthur, aged 6, Henry, aged 15 and a Shoemakers apprentice, Stephen, aged 8, and William, aged under 1.
A history of the 48th Division, of which the 1st/8th Warwicks were part, includes the following battle honours for 1917.
Local operations around St. Julian. 19, 22, 27 Aug 1917
www.ordersofbattle.darkscape.net/site/warpath/divs/48_div...
However, it would appear that the 143rd Brigade, which included the 1st/8ths, were the divisional reserve on this day, as only the 144th and 145th Brigades appear in these records of the action.
forum.irishmilitaryonline.com/showthread.php?t=11535&...
There is some family research on-line in connection with John.
www.martinzuerner.co.uk/descendants-chart.htm
www.youtube.com/watch?v=vNc2INfhqAw
This site has a (small) picture of John.
www.norfolkmills.co.uk/Watermills/costessey.html
Watson H Sparkes
Name: SPARKES, WATSON HENRY
Rank: Private Regiment/Service: Norfolk Regiment Unit Text: "A" Coy. 1st Bn.
Age: 21 Date of Death: 27/07/1916 Service No: 14031
Additional information: Son of Mr. and Mrs. Henry Sparkes, of Wensum Square, Costessey, Norwich.
Grave/Memorial Reference: Pier and Face 1 C and 1 D. Memorial: THIEPVAL MEMORIAL
www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=813718
No match on Norlink
The 1901 Census has the 5 year old Watson living at The Street, Costessey. This was the household of his parents, Henry W, aged 38 and a Journeyman Miller from Plumstead, London and Sarah E, aged 32 from East Beckham, Norfolk. Their other children are Ernest W, (aged under 1)and Leonard A, (aged 4).
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/1stbtn/1stbtn1916appendices.html
William C White
No obvious match on CWGC
No match on Norlink
The 1901 Census has the 14 year old William living at The Street, Costessey. This was the household of his parents Albert, a 40 year old Carpenter from Costessey, and Harriet, aged and originally from Brandon, Suffolk. Their other children are Annie, aged 12, Eleanor, aged 6 and Gertrude, aged 9.
1939 - 1945
W Orford
Name: ORFORD, WILLIAM FRED
Rank: Private Regiment/Service: Royal Norfolk Regiment Unit Text: 2nd Bn.
Age: 24 Date of Death: 04/05/1944 Service No: 5775952
Additional information: Son of Fred Orford and of Mary Ann Orford (nee Gary), of New Costessey, Norfolk.
Grave/Memorial Reference: 2. C. 15. Cemetery: KOHIMA WAR CEMETERY
www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=2601899
The 2nd Battalion were heavily engaged in the Battle of Kohima at this stage.
Reports of the action on this day are referred to briefly here,
www.britain-at-war.org.uk/html/body_randle.htm
C Roberts
Name: ROBERTS, CHARLES AMBROSE
Rank: Lieutenant Regiment/Service: Royal Norfolk Regiment Unit Text: 2nd Bn.
Age: 33 Date of Death: 06/05/1944 Service No: 203323
Additional information: Son of Thomas and Sarah Roberts; husband of Monica Roberts, of New Costessey, Norfolk.
Grave/Memorial Reference: 2. C. 3. Cemetery: KOHIMA WAR CEMETERY
www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=2602003
It was on this day that Captain John Randle of the battalion won the VC in the attack on the enemy position known as “Norfolk Bunker”
www.britain-at-war.org.uk/html/body_randle.htm
E Smith
Too many to choose from (479 matches on CWGC)
H O Solomon
Name: SOLOMON, HAROLD OLIVER
Rank: Private Regiment/Service: Royal Norfolk Regiment Unit Text: 6th Bn.
Age: 26 Date of Death: 10/09/1945 Service No: 5776798
Additional information: Son of George Odger Solomon and Charlotte Solomon, of New Costessey, Norfolk.
Grave/Memorial Reference: Column 52. Memorial: SINGAPORE MEMORIAL
GEORGE
The beloved husband of
JESSIE JANE WILSON
Who died 31st Dec. 1879
Aged 22 years
When Christ who is my life shall appear
Then shall I appear with him in glory
Also of
Bomdr REGINALD BRUNDISH
(R.F.A.)
The loving husband of
JESSIE BRUNDISH
Died in Northampton War Hospital
11th July 1916. Aged 35 years.
With Christ which is far better
BRUNDISH, REGINALD V.
Rank:……………………......Bombardier
Service No:……………….6942
Date of Death:………….17/07/1916
Age:……………………….....35
Regiment/Service:……Royal Field Artillery
…………………………….......35th Div. Ammunition Col.
Grave Reference:……..27. 242.
Cemetery:………………....NORWICH CEMETERY, NORFOLK
CWGC: www.cwgc.org/find-war-dead/casualty/2803070/BRUNDISH,%20R...
Soldiers Died in the Great War records the Acting Bombardier Reginald Brundish “Died” on the 11th July 1916 whilst serving on the Home Front with the Royal Horse Artillery and Royal Field Artillery. He was born and enlisted Norwich. No place of residence is shown.
(“Died” in SDGW means anything other than Killed in Action or Died of Wounds (received in action)).
The Medal Index Card for Acting Bomabardier 6942 Reginald Brundish, 35th Brigade Royal Field Artillery is held at the National Archive under reference WO 372/3/141429
He had previously been Corporal 6942 in the same unit.
discovery.nationalarchives.gov.uk/details/r/D1556266
The existence of a Medal Index Card would usually indicate that he had served at least some part of the conflict in a Theatre of War – very few UK only servicemen qualified for the Medals that would lead to a MiC being raised. As Corporal and Bombardier are equivalent ranks, I would hazard a guess that the mention of it on his MiC would indicate that overseas service was prior to the 1st January 1916, as soldiers in theatre before that qualified for an additional medal – the 1914/15 Star. The medal roll for the star would capture his rank and unit on the 31st December 1915 – earlier if killed or honourably discharged from the service.
His Service Records do not appear to have survived the incendiary attack during the Blitz on the Warehouse where all the Army service records were stored.
From:
BRITISH TRANSPORT POLICE HISTORY GROUP
ROLL OF HONOUR
RAILWAY, DOCK & CANAL OFFICERS
WHO GAVE THEIR LIVES IN THE GREAT WAR 1914-1918
PC REGINALD VICTOR BRUNDISH
Great Eastern Railway Police
Norwich
PC BRUNDISH, the son of Edgar John and Ruth Brundish, was born c.1883 and joined the Great Eastern Railway Police in March 1910, stationed at Norwich. He enlisted as a Bombardier 6942 in the 35th Division (Ammunition Column) of the Royal Field Artillery. The causes of his death are not known but he died in the Norwich Military Hospital on the 11th
July 1916 aged 35 years and is buried in Norwich Cemetery. He is also commemorated on the Great Eastern Railway Memorial on the upper level of Liverpool Street Station, London.
Source:
Commonwealth War Graves Commission
BTPHG PSR2
GER Magazine
Railway Roll of Honour
www.btphg.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/BTPHG-WW1-RoH...
However another Railway source appear to have him recorded as a Reservist at the time of joining the Great East Railway in 1910 and that he died aged 34 in the Northampton Military Hospital. Their source is the Great Eastern Railway Magazine for 1916, page 240. They show the CWGC date of the 17th July 1916 for his death. He was based in the Stratford Department. He had previously been in the Royal Garrison Artillery.
www.google.co.uk/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&...
From a picture I’ve taken but have yet to do the write up for, I can confirm R V Brundish in on the Great Eastern Railway Memorial in Liverpool Street Station.
1881 Birth and Baptism
The baptism of a Reginald Victor Brundish, born 24th August 1881. took place at St James with Pockthorpe, Norwich, on the 18th September 1881. His parents were John, a Brewers Servant and Ruth Brundish. They were then living at Butchers Yard, which was OTP (Outside the Parish).
www.freereg.org.uk/search_records/5818c67ee93790eca3cf184...
familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:NX6M-YJ5
Other family baptisms
St James with Pockthorpe
Edgar David Brundish, born 22nd December 1879, baptised 18th January 1880. Parents John, a Labourer and Ruth. Living at the Cellar House Inn, OTP.
www.freereg.org.uk/search_records/5818c67ce93790eca3cf14c...
Beatrice Rebecca Brundish, born 13th July 1883, baptised 29th July 1883. Parents John, a Brewers Servant, and Ruth. Living at Maces Yard, St James St, OTP.
www.freereg.org.uk/search_records/5818c680e93790eca3cf1d5...
Rupert John Brundish, born 11th December 1885, baptised 17th January 1886. Parents John, a Brewers Servant, and Ruth. Living at Paddocks OTP.
www.freereg.org.uk/search_records/5818c685e93790eca3cf285...
Maude Maria Brundish, born 4th October 1887, baptised 30th October 1887. Parents John, a Labourer, and Ruth. Living at The Paddocks, Silver Road, OTP.
www.freereg.org.uk/search_records/5818c614e93790eca3ce3b2...
Percy Edward Brundish, born 7th April 1890, baptised 4th May 1890. Parents John, a Labourer, and Ruth. Living at Paddocks, OTP.
www.freereg.org.uk/search_records/5818c618e93790eca3ce42c...
Hilda Ruth Brundish, born 18th June 1896, baptised 12th July 1896. Parents John, a Brewers Servant, and Ruth. Living at 53 Mousehold Street.
www.freereg.org.uk/search_records/5818c620e93790eca3ce588...
1891 Census of England and Wales
The 9 year old Reginald V, (mis-transcribed as B) Brundish, born Norwich, was recorded living at The Paddocks, Silver Road, Norwich. This was the household of his parents, John, (aged 45? – tbc, Brewers Servant, born Honingham, Norfolk) and Ruth, (aged 34, born Honingham, Norfolk). As well as Reginald their other children are:-
Edgar D………..aged 11….born Norwich…House Boy
Patricia R………aged 7……born Norwich..Deaf and Dumb
Rupert Jno………aged 5…...born Norwich
Maud M………..aged 3…….born Norwich
Percy Ed……….aged 1…….born Norwich
1901 Census of England and Wales
A 19 year old Gunner Reginald Brundish, born Horning, Norfolk, was stationed with the Royal Garrison Artillery at Newport, Monmouthshire.
His family were now living at 7 Morley Street, Norwich. Father John, (53, born Horningham), is now recorded in the Disability column as Paralysed. Along with wife Ruth, (45), children still single and living at home are Rupert, (15, Waiter), Maud M, (13, Tailoress Fitter(?)), Percy (10) and Hilda R, (4, born Norwich).
The death of a 57 year old John Brundish was recorded in the Norwich District in Q1 of 1903. Ruth would remarry in 1905.
Herberts’ future wife, the 17 year old Jessie M. White, born Norwich, was recorded living at 32 St Julians Street, Norwich. This was the household of her parents, Alfred E, (aged 44, a Railway Porter, born Brooke, Norfolk) and Jessie J, (aged 41, born Beccles, Suffolk). Jessie has 4 siblings living with her and a step-brother.
1911 Census of England and Wales
The 29 year old Reginald Brundish, born Norwich, was recorded as a Boarder at 51 Geere Road, Plaistow, West Ham, East London. A single man, he was employed by the Great Eastern Railway as a Railway Constable.
The 27 year old Jessie Mabel White, his future bride, was still single and working as a Cracker Maker in a Chocolate Factory. She was still living with her parents at 32 St Julians Street. Alfred Edgar, (53, Checker in a Mineral Water Factory) and Jessie Jane, (50), have been married 28 years and have had 8 children, of which 7 were then still alive. As well as Jessie four of them are still single and living at home.
Interestingly, a family history web-site gives some slightly difference information. Edgar’s father John married Ruth Thompson in Norwich in 1879. Their children are listed as
Beatrice R. Brundish, b. 1884, Norwich, England, d. 1896, Aged 12 London.
Edgar Donald Brundish, b. 1880, Norwich, England, d. 07 Oct 1915, World War 1 France.
Percy Edward Brundish, b. 1890, Norwich, England, d. 1937, Wisbech.
Reginald Victor Brundish, b. 1882, Norwich, England, d. 1916, World War 1.
Rupert John Brundish, b. 1886, Norwich, England, d. date unknown, Australia.
+Maud Maria Brundish, b. 04 Oct 1887, Norwich, England, d. 1981, Norwich, England.
Hilda R. Brundish, b. 1897, Norwich, England, d. date unknown.
familytreemaker.genealogy.com/users/t/h/o/Donald-J-Thorpe...
His brother Edward is remembered on the War Memorial in St Saviours, Norwich.
(see comment below)
1911 Marriage
The marriage of a Reginald V Brundish to either a Rosa Girling or a Jessie M White is recorded in the General Registrars Office Index of Marriages for England and Wales in the April to June quarter, (Q2), of 1911. This was one of the last two quarters in which marriages were not cross referenced in the index, so confirmation of who he married has to come from elsewhere.
The marriage of a Reginald Victor Brundish, aged 29 and a Bachelor, to Jessie Mabel White, aged 27 and a Spinster, took place in the church of St James with Pockthorpe, Norwich on the 23rd April 1911. Reginald, a Police Constable, was living at Mousehold Street, Norwich. His father is given as John Brundish, Brewers Servant. Jessie was also living on Mousehold Street. Her father is given as Alfred White, Checker. Witnesses are given as Alfred and Ida White.
www.freereg.org.uk/search_records/58183ab2e93790eb7f68c2b...
Until September 1911 the quarterly index published by the General Registrars Office did not show information about the mothers maiden name. A check of the General Registrars Office Index of Birth for England and Wales 1911 – 1983 shows no likely children for Reginald and Jessie.
His unit
The various records show two units for him.
1 : The 35th Divisional Ammunition Column
The history of 35th Division
On 10 December the War Office authorised the formation of the Fifth New Army. Like the other Kitchener Armies, it comprised six Divisions, in this case numbered 37 to 42. What eventually became 35th Division was originally numbered 42nd. In April 1915, the original Fourth New Army was broken up and its units converted for training and draft-finding purposes. When this took place the Fifth New Army became Fourth New Army and its Divisions were renumbered to 30th – 35th: thus what we remember as 35th Division was born.
The Division was largely comprised of locally raised units known as “Bantams”, manned by troops who were under the normal regulation minimum height of 5 feet 3 inches.
After early training near home, the units concentrated in June 1915 in North Yorkshire. Divisional HQ was at Masham and units were at Roomer Common, Marfield, Fearby and Masham. In August 1915 the Division moved to Salisbury Plain, HQ being set up at Marlborough. Over the next few weeks moves were made to Chiseldon and Cholderton. In late 1915 orders were received to kit for a move to Egypt but this was soon rescinded.
On 28 January 1916 the Division began to cross the English Channel and by early on 6 February all units were concentrated east of St Omer. (Note: it follows that no man who was with the original contingent of this Division was awarded the 1914-1915 Star).
The Division then remained on the Western Front for the remainder of the war
www.longlongtrail.co.uk/army/order-of-battle-of-divisions...
2 : 35th Brigade Royal Field Artillery
This brigade was originally comprised of numbers 12, 25 and 58 Batteries RFA. It was based at Woolwich in August 1914. In September 1914 it was placed under command of the new 7th Division and went to France with it in October 1914.
www.1914-1918.net/rfa_units_35.html
On the day
The death of the 35 year old Reginald Brundish, (no middle name), was recorded in the Northampton District in the July to September quarter, (Q3), of 1916.
There is no obvious Soldiers Will or Civil Probate for this man.
Postscript
There is no obvious remarriage of Jessie in the records for England and Wales. There is a death of a Jessie M Brundish, aged 82, in the Norwich Outer District of Norfolk in the April to June quarter, (Q2), of 1966.
The edition of the Norwich Mercury dated Saturday May 25, 1918 had a photo gallery which included this picture. The associated caption read “Pte. Frederick Gant, son of Mrs. E, Gant, 67, West End Street, Norwich, died of wounds in France”.
Rifleman GANT, F T
Service Number R/15481
Died:………….. 25/09/1917
Aged:…………. 35
Unit…………….11th Bn.
..............………King's Royal Rifle Corps
Son of Emma and the late Benjamin Gant, of 67, West End St., Norwich, Norfolk.
Buried at WIMEREUX COMMUNAL CEMETERY
Cemetery/memorial reference: VI. B. 11A
Source: www.cwgc.org/find-war-dead/casualty/508460/gant,-/
Soldiers Died in the Great War records that Rifleman R/15481 Frederick Thomas Gant Died of Wounds on the 26th September 1917 while serving in France & Flanders with the 11th Battalion King’s Royal Rifle Corps. He was born North Heigham, Norfolk and enlisted Norwich. No place of residence is shown.
The Medal Index Card for Private R/15481 Frederick Gant, King’s Royal Rifle Corps is held at the National Archive under reference WO 372/7/198741
Source: discovery.nationalarchives.gov.uk/details/r/D2284405
He qualified for the British War Medal and the Victory Medal. There is no additional information on the card. To receive only this combination of service medals would mean he first landed in a Theatre of War after the 31st December 1915.
The associated Service Medal Roll shows that he only served overseas with the 11th Battalion.
Some of his Service Records appear to have survived the incendiary attack during the Blitz on the Warehouse where all the Other Ranks Army Service Records were stored.
Frederick Thomas Gant, aged 33 years and 1 month, was living at No.67, West End Street, Norwich when he enlisted in the Army on the 13th September 1915. Still single, he worked as a Painter and Paper Hanger. He was born North Heigham, Norfolk. He had no previous military experience.
(Given the information on the civil records it should be noted here that the questions abou him being married and previous military experience are on a slip of paper that has been struck on the form in the relevant area, covering any original entries.)
He was described as 5 feet 5 inches tall and weighed 139lbs. At his enlistment medical he was found fit for the army subject to dental treatment.
His next of kin was his mother, Mrs Emma Gant, of the same address.
Initially sent to the K.R.R.C. Depot at Winchester and given number R/15481, on the 24th September 1915 he was posted to No.1. Company, 15th Battalion. As part of a draft he was sent out to France to join the 11th Battalion on the 10th February 1916. He joined up with the Battalion in the field on the 26th February 1916.
His Casualty Form – Active Service, which is the nearest thing there is for most soldiers of their major organisational moves is blotched and heavily faded, making it very difficult to read. In September 1916 he was admitted to 14 C.R.S. with what was possibly influenza. A note has then been added that on the 4th October 1916 he joined th M.G.C. (usually means Machine Gun Corps) from hospital. There is a subsequent entry that he was admitted “2 ConD” (probably means 2nd Convalesence Depot) in late September 1916.
There are more blotched entries including one that might reference an Infantry Base Depot in January 1917.
The next clear line is that he rejoined his Battalion, (doesn’t say which one), in the Field on the 26th April 1917. He had leave to the UK from the 17th to the 26th August 1917. On the 20th?? September he was noted as wounded – Gun Shot Wound Left Leg and ????. On the 26th September 1917 he died from these wounds at 2 Australian General Hospital.
In January 1919 his mother applied for a dependants pension. The application was witnessed by the then Vicar of St Barnabas. The form she had was actually for a Guardian of a soldiers children which had, according to the subsequent memos, been sent out in March 1918 and had caused her great confusion and had led her to involve the local War Pensions Committee. Eventually it seems she just filled the form in anyway.
Post-war and as part of issuing medals and paying out War Gratuities, the Army sent Form W.5080 to the last known next of kin. The form asked for details of the surviving family members and was laid out in an order that followed the order of precedence for inheritance as it then applied.
This confirms there was no widow or children of the soldier.
The father of the soldier is deceased.
The mother of the soldier was Mrs Emma Gant, of 67 West End Street, Norwich.
Brothers of the soldier.
Full Blood: Benjamin Oscar Gant, aged 30, living at 67 West End Street, Norwich.
Half Blood: None.
Sisters of the soldier.
Full Blood; Mrs Alice Lake, aged 34, Near the Post Office, Lingwood, Norwich.
Mrs Bessie Curtis, aged 32, 87 Devonshire Street, Norwich.
Half Blood: None.
The form was actually completed by the brother, Benjamin Gant at some point in 1919 and witnessed by a Clerk in Holy orders, but many of the key details are obscured by what looks to be soot marks.
He was entitled to the British War Medal and the Victory Medal. His medals were actually signed for by a Benjamin Gant in 1921. Benjamin also received Fredericks’ personal effects in December 1919.
No match on Picture Norfolk, the County Image Archive.
No obvious Soldiers Will or Civil Probate for this man. The Army Register of Soldiers Effects records that Private R/15481 Frederick Thomas Gant, 11th (S) Battalion, K.R.R.C., died on the 26th September 1917 at 2 Australian General Hospital, Boulogne. The balance of his pay was sent to his brother and sole legatee Benjamin in March 1918. Fredericks’ War Gratuity was sent to his mother Emma in October 1919.
His death plaque was sold at auction in 2018.
www.the-saleroom.com/zh-cn/auction-catalogues/lockdales/c...
According to a locally published booklet from the early 1920’s documenting the newly unveiled war memorials, the name of a Frederick T. “Grant” appears on the one in St Bartholomew, Heigham, Norwich. Unfortunately that church was gutted by firebombs in 1942 and all that now remains is the shell of the tower, which has been filled with concrete to keep it stable. It is very likely the memorial went up in flames.
1882 – Birth……………………….
The birth of a Frederick Thomas Gant was registered with the Civil Authorities in the Norwich District of Norfolk in the July to September quarter, (Q3), of 1882.
North Heigham and South Heigham were small hamlets to the west of Norwich and within sight of the old medieval city walls. Even in the later Victorian period they could still be seen as independent, but with the rapid expension of the city in the 1870’s both were rapidly subsumed. The good councillors of Norwich, (with many a property developer in their midst) were regular petitoners to Parliament to get the city boundaries extended. Most residents of Norwich now wouldn’t even know of the existence of the Heighams let alone where they were.
1891 Census of England and Wales
At first Frederick and his family were difficult to find on this census, but using the information from the 1901 Census it proved possible to find them recorded with the surname “Gants” and living at 7 Langley Street, Heigham, Norwich. As well as parents Benjamin, (aged 33, a Painter and paper Hanger, born Reedham, Norfolk) and Emma, (aged 34, born Norwich), there were children:-
George K…..aged 12….born Norwich
Ethel E……..aged 10….born Norwich
Frederick T..aged 8…….born Norwich
Alice E……..aged 6……born Norwich
Bessie G…..aged 4……born Norwich
Benjamin C..aged 1……born Norwich
Also in the household was Emmas’ father George Beart, a 74 year old widower, a Retired Drayman, born Hemblington, Norfolk.
1901 Census of England and Wales
The 19 year old Frederick Gant, a Carpenter, born Norwich, was recorded living at 30 Old Palace Road, Norwich. This was the household of his parents Benjamin, (aged 42, a House Builder, born Reedham, Norfolk) and Emma, (aged 50, born Norwich). As well as Frederick the couples other children still living with them were:-
Ethel……….aged 20…..born Norwich….Tailoress
Alice………..aged 17….born Norwich…..Dressmaker
Benjamin…..aged 13….born Norwich
Ralph……….aged 7…..born Norwich
There is also a boarder in the household.
The death of a Benjamin Gant, aged 48, was recorded in the Norwich District in the April to June quarter, (Q2), of 1907. There is no obvious civil probate for that man.
On the 1901-02 Norfolk Register of Electors, a Benjamin Gant was recorded as entitled to vote in Parliamentary and City Council elections as he was the (male) head of the household at 30, Old Palace Road, Norwich.
www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:QJ8B-H3Z1
On the 1905-06 edition he was recorded moving from 30 Old Palace Road to 75 Heigham Road, Norwich.
www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:2C9L-5BD
He appears on the 1906-07 edition at the Heigham Road address but doesn’t show up after that.
1911 Census of England and Wales
The mostly likely match on this census is a 30 year old “married” boarder, Frederick T Gant, a House Painter born Norwich, who was recorded at the Brickmakers Arms, Riverside, Reedham, Norfolk. He is stated to have been married 6 years but in answer to the question about how many children the marriage had produced, the answer is a cross. There are no other boarders in the household. Given that this information came from the householder it should be treated with caution.
(Frederick is not on the War Memorial at Reedham).
Pre August 1911 the quarterly index of marriages in England & Wales did not cross reference who marriage who. While a lot of work has gone on subsequently on genealogy sources to establish this information. However, as each page of each District normaly contained two marriages, the most widely available information consists of two bridegrooms and two brides. In this case a Frederick Thomas Gant married either a Lucy May Fulcher or a Florence Louisa Bracey in the Norwich District in the October to December quarter, (Q4), of 1904. The other bridegroom was a Frederick Thomas Smith.
I could not find a likely match for any of those individuals on the 1911 Census, nor a likely death in England & Wales between 1904 & 1911 of a Lucy Gant or a Florence Gant.
It may be a co-incidence but the birth of a Vera Grace Gant, mothers’ maiden name Fulcher was registered in the Norwich District in the April to June quarter, (Q2), of 1906. Vera however also doesn’t appear to be on the 1911 Census of England & Wales.
If it was Lucy May Fulcher who married Frederick, then the only likely birth record I could find was was of a Lucy May Fulcher, mothers’ maiden name Houghton, whose birth was registered with the Civil Authorities in Norwich in the October to December quarter, (Q4), of 1884. The 6 year old L.M. Fulcher, (female) born Norwich, was recorded on the 1891 Census living with parents Robert and Hannah at “White Rose”, Lower Westwick Road, Norwich, although father Robert was then a Boot Finisher. The 1901 Census has the family living at 107 Dereham Road, Norwich, with Lucy, aged 17 shown as “Helping at Home” and father Robert as a Licensed Victualler. On the 1911 Census Robert, Hannah and some of their children are shown at the “Beaufort”, No.1 Prince of Wales Road, Norwich, where Robert is the Licensed Victualler – but there is no Lucy or grand-daughter Vera.
As I couldn’t find a likely death of a Lucy May Gant, I then looked to see if she might have remarried. There is indeed a marriage of a Lucy M Gant recorded in the Norwich District – it took place in the Norwich District in the October to December quarter, (Q4), of 1917, so in the months after her husbands death. Lucys’ second husband was an Edwin G. Towler.
Now it may be just a co-incidence, but on the 1911 Census of England & Wales there is a 35 year old Edwin Gale Towler, a Machine Compositor in the Printing Industry, born Abbotts Ann, Hampshire, who was recorded as the married head of the household at 21 Ferndale Road, South Tottenham. His wife of 3 years was the 25 year old Lucy May, born Norwich. The couple have had just the one child, Doris May Towler, aged 1 and born South Tottenham.
Had Lucy left her husband to live with another man? I can find no likely marriage for Edwin in England & Wales in the period 1906 – 1911. In the records available to me I couldn’t find a mothers’ maiden name associated with the Birth Registration of Doris May Towler. So for now the jury is out.
The widowed mother of Frederick, Emma, was now shown as aged “51” and born Norwich, was recorded as the head of the household at 67 West End Street, Norwich. She doesn’t say how long she was married, but does say she has had 7 children, of which 6 were then still alive. Those children still single and living with her were:-
Alice………aged 26….born Norwich…Dressmaker
Bessie……aged 24….born Norwich…Restaurant Waitress
Benjamin…aged 21….born Norwich…Surveyors Clerk
Ralph……..aged 17….born Norwich
Also in the household is her 7 year old grand-daughter Gladys Gant, born Norwich.
Family in the Great War………………………….
Another brother, Ralph Victor Gant, would died serving with the 10th Battalion, Essex Regiment on the 21st March 1918.
He is remembered on the War Memorial at St Augustine, Norwich.
www.flickr.com/photos/43688219@N00/5304079074
Also in the same photo galley in edition of the Norfolk Mercury dated Saturday May 25, 1918 was a picture of Ralph – see photo link in the comments box below
On the day…………………………………
Eagle Trench, 20th September (1917)
The 10th and 11th Battalions took part in an attack north-east of Langemarck. The first objective was taken and held; fighting was severe and somewhat confused. Casualties were heavy, and though further progress was made in places, at dusk most of the small parties left-out withdrew.
Losses: Officers: killed 10, wounded 6; Other Ranks 351
www.krrcassociation.com/history/wf1917.htm
Day 46 (Third Ypres aka Passchendaele).
Rainfall 2 mm
Today marks the beginning of the Battle of the Menin Road Ridge, lasting until September 25th.
Zero Hour was 5.40 am.
Langemarck
20th Div
At Zero Hour the division fired oil drums at Eagle Trench. The drums unfortunately fell beyond the target and served to illuminate the attacking troops.
59 Bde
The brigade attacked with 10th and 11th Bns, King’s Royal Rifle Corps. 11th Bn, Rifle Brigade was in support and 10th Bn, Rifle Brigade in reserve. 10th KRRC captured the German First Line and advanced as far as ‘t Goed Ter Vesten Farm under cover of smoke. 11th, Rifle Brigade took over from 11th KRRC and advanced on Eagle Trench. Their smoke screen was ineffective however and they lost 2/3 of the engaged troops, taking only part of the objective. A German counter-attack at 8.30am was driven off.
60 Bde
60 Bde attacked with 12th Bn, Rifle Brigade and 6th Bn, Oxfordshire & Buckinghamshire Light Infantry. In support was 6th Bn, King’s Shropshire Light Infantry. The Oxs & Bucks was held up by MG fire from Eagle Farm and consequently only the southern part of Eagle Trench was occupied east of Schreiboom Crossroads. After a hasty re-org and a rescheduling of the barrage, the attack was re-started at 6.30am. This time all of Eagle Trench was occupied.
Source:https://forum.irishmilitaryonline.com/showthread.php?11535-The-Battle-of-Passchendaele/page3
WIMEREUX COMMUNAL CEMETERY
Location Information
Wimereux is a small town situated approximately 5 kilometres north of Boulogne.
History Information
Wimereux was the headquarters of the Queen Mary's Army Auxilliary Corps during the First World War and in 1919 it became the General Headquarters of the British Army. From October 1914 onwards, Boulogne and Wimereux formed an important hospital centre and until June 1918, the medical units at Wimereux used the communal cemetery for burials, the south-eastern half having been set aside for Commonwealth graves, although a few burial were also made among the civilian graves.
Source: www.cwgc.org/find-a-cemetery/cemetery/8200/wimereux-commu...
Mildly photoshopped to minimise impact of damage present on the original image.
List of residents of Tweed from 1902-1920.
Donated by the daughter of Dorothy Bowes.
"I REMEMBER THEM WELL"
"MR & MRS W S GORDON, DAUGHTERS GLADYS & RUTH, STEEL TROUGH
MR & MRS MORTON, GARRETT MORTON'S FATHER & MOTHER
MR & MRS GARRETT MORTON, TOWN CLERK
MR & MRS PARLOW, MRS PARLOW WAS A DRESSMAKER
MR & MRS ADAM GILLISPIE [GILLESPIE]
MRS SARGENT
MR & MRS GEORGE CLARE, RETIRED FARMER, PRODUCE STORE
MR & MRS JAMES CLARE, RETIRED
MR & MRS W E GARTLEY, MANUFACTURE OF PUMPS, EDNA, MARY, JAMES, ANA
MR & MRS CHARLES KERR, LADIES & GENTS CLOTHING STORE, ARTHUR, ETHEL, RUTH
MR & MRS W GARRETT, GARRETT'S FOUNDRY, FLORENCE, LOIS, JIM, BERT
MR CHARLES GARRETT
GRANDPA GARRETT
MR & MRS S DAFOE, RETIRED , SAM, HELEN
MR & MRS SANDY GRANT MPP, MCLEAN, RASTUS, RUTH, CORA, LUCY
MR & MRS C BLACK, LADIES WEAR STORE, CHARLES
MR & MRS ED WRIGHT, MR WRIGHT DROVE THE FIRST BUS AFTER THE STAGE COACH WAS DISCONTINUED, MRS WRIGHT HAD A BOARDING HOME, GRACE
MR & MRS TRUMPER, RETIRED, HILLEY [HILEY]
MR & MRS W COURTNEY
MR & MRS SYDNEY WAY
MR & MRS CARLETON, DECORATOR, PERCY
MISS JENNIE WRIGHT, WORKED IN CHARLES KERR STORE
MR & MRS ALGER, PUBLISHER OF THE TWEED NEWS, ELSIE, AGNES, EWART, STUART [?]
MR & MRS MORRISON, PUBLISHED OF THE TWEED NEWS, LEE
MR & MRS SAM CURRY, PUBLISHER OF THE TWEED NEWS
MR & MRS McCANN, JUSTICE OF THE PEACE
MR & MRS WALLER, KEPT THE HOTEL WHERE THE CONVENT NOW IS
THE MURPHY'S , AT ONE TIME POST MASTER, ALSO OWNED MURPHY'S OPERA HOUSE
THE CLARKES, GEORGE, HENRY, CHARLES, ALL MERCHANTS
MR & MRS TUCKER, JEWELRY STORE
MR & MRS HEATH RUBY
PAUL KING, HARNESS MAKER
MR & MRS P K NEWTON, DRUGGIST, MARION
MR & MRS JOHN NEWTON, RETIRED, LAURINSON
MR & MRS COMBER, HARNESS MAKER
THE LA FONTAIN'S, READY TO WEAR STORE
THE QUINNS , READY TO WEAR STORE
THE QUINNS, CONFECTIONERY STORE
DR & MRS BOULBY, POST MASTER, VETERINARIAN, PERCY, ERIE
MR & MRS S ROLLINS, BAKERY, REEVE OF TWEED
MR & MRS D ROLLINS, MANUFACTURED BRICKS
MR & MRS JOHN GORDON, CPR STATION AGENT
MR & MRS F B FOSTER, MYRTLE, ALTON, ETHEL, GROCERY STORE
MR & MRS RICHARDSON, BOUGHT W E GARTLEY PUMP BUSINESS, LOIS, JEAN
MISS ANNE RAYBURN, INSURANCE
MISS GRACE MORAN, SCHOOL TEACHER
MISS EMMA WALLACE, SCHOOL TEACHER
MISS MAGGIE HOLDCROFT, SCHOOL TEACHER
MR S H CONNOR, SCHOOL TEACHER
MR & MRS MARTIN, PREVIOUS OWNERS OF THE CHARLES KERR STORE
MR & MRS CRAIG, RETIRED
MR & MRS PRESTON, LADIES WEAR
MRS I D HUYCK, TAILORESS, EDITH
MR & MRS ED HUYCK, HUYCK HOUSE
MR & MRS HARRY ROLLINS
MR & MRS ARBER, BAKERY"
In
Loving Memory
Of
SARAH ANN
The beloved wife of
WILLIAM BLAZEBY
Who died Jan.1st. 1917
Aged 71 years.
Also of
WILLIAM
Husband of the above
Who died Nov. 1st 1925
Aged 79 years
Also of
ALFRED JOHN
Suffolk Regiment
Dearly loved son of th(e above).
Killed in France 2????
Aged 36 years.
That soldier is most likely to be:-
BLAZEBY, ALFRED JOHN
Rank:………………......Private
Service No:………….291042
Date of Death:……..27/03/1918
Regiment:………….....7th Bn, Suffolk Regiment.
Memorial:…………......Pozieres Memorial
CWGC: www.cwgc.org/find-war-dead/casualty/853075/blazeby,-alfre...
Soldiers Died in the Great War records that Private Alfred John Blazeby was Killed in Action on the 27th March 1918 whilst serving with the 7th Battalion, Suffolk Regiment. He was born and enlisted Norwich. No place of residence is shown.
The Medal Index Card for Private 291042 Alfred J. Blazeby, Suffolk Regiment, is held at the National Archive under reference WO 372/2/182687
discovery.nationalarchives.gov.uk/details/r/D1368821
His Service Records do not appear to have survived the incendiary attack during the Blitz on the Warehouse where all the Army service records were stored.
The International Red Cross do not appear to have received a missing person inquiry.
No match on Picture Norfolk, the County image archive.
There is no obvious Soldiers Will or Civil Probate for this man.
The relevant Memorial Panel can be seen here:-
www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=pv&GRid=160818...
1881 Census of England and Wales
The 3 month old Alfred J. Blazeby, born Norwich, was recorded at one of the dwellings in Green Yard, Pockthorpe, Norwich. This was the household of his parents William, (aged 35, a Cooper, born Norwich) and Sarah, (aged 36, born Norwich). As well as Williams’ step-daughter, (and presumably Sarah’s daughter), Alice M Percy, (aged 15, a Silk Factory Worker, born Norwich), the other children of this marriage who were living with them are:-
Frances R(?)………aged 10……born Norwich
William F…………aged 8……...born Norwich
Florence E………...aged 6……..born Norwich
Edith S……………aged 4………born Norwich
Beatrice C(?)……..aged 2………born Norwich
Next comes the tricky part. The baptism of an Alfred John Blazeby, born 26th December 1880, took place at St James with Pockthorpe, Norwich on the 20th March 1881. Parents were William, a Cooper, and Sarah Ann. The family lived at Green Yard, Barrack Street, which was actually outside the Parish Boundary.
www.freereg.org.uk/search_records/5818c67ee93790eca3cf176...
But the baptism of an Alfred John Blazeby born 7th March 1882 took place in the same church, with the same parents on the 3rd December 1882. The family were now living at Bakers Yard, Barrack Street, but were still living outside the Parish.
www.freereg.org.uk/search_records/5818c680e93790eca3cf1bf...
Given the high rates of infant mortality, it was not uncommon for names to be recycled, particularly if they were traditional family names. However this can be a nightmare for genealogists. What at first appears to be nothing more than an age quirk between two censuses actually masks a family tragedy – something reflected in the 1911 census for William and Sarah – see below.
The death of an Alfred John Blazeby, aged under 1, was recorded in the Norwich District in the April to June quarter, (Q2), of 1881.
1891 Census of England and Wales
The Blazeby family were now recorded living at 6 Black Horse Street, Heigham, Norwich. As well as father William, (45, Cooper) and mother Sarah A., (47, now shown as born Eaton, Norfolk), children still single and living at home are Frank W., (17, Moulder), Florence E., (16, Machinist), Edith S., (14, General Servant – Daygirl), Beatrice C., (12), Alfred J., (9), Ellen M., (7) and Harry, (5) – all born Norwich.
1901 Census of England and Wales
The family now appear to have a few doors up the street to number 11. The scan of the original census is very faint, but interpreting what little I can see in line with the previous two censuses we have parents William, (55, Cooper) and Sarah A, (56, back to born Norwich), as well as unmarried children Beatrice, (22, Tailoress), Alfred, (19, ????? presser?), Nellie, (17, Tailoress) and Harry, (15, Ironmoulder?).
1906 – Marriage?......................
The marriage of an Alfred John Blazeby to a Caroline Beatrice Brown was recorded in the October to December quarter, (Q4), of 1906 in the Norwich District.
1911 Census of England and Wales
There is only one Alfred Blazeby with a Norwich connection and of anything like the right age on this census. This is the 29 year old married man, a Machine Operator in a Boot Factory, born Norwich, who was recorded living at 21 Marlborough Road, Norwich. This was the household of his widowed father-in-law, Samuel Browne, (aged 71, a retired Gumshoe Maker and Old Age Pensioner, born Norwich). Living with Alfred is his wife of 4 years, Beatrice, (aged 30, born Norwich). The couple have had three children, but sadly only one was still alive. This was almost certainly the 2 year old Beatrice Blazeby, born Norwich, who is shown on the census return as the grand-daughter of Samuel Browne.
The 1911 census return was the first intended to be completed by a member of the householder. In the case of Alfreds’ parents, its father William who has completed the form, but in every instance, including his signature on the declaration, he has spelt the family surname as “Blazby”. He was still living at 11 Blackhorse Street, Norwich. Then aged 65, he was till working as a Cooper in the “Brewry” trade. He and Sarah Ann, (66), have been married 40 years and have had 15 children, of which 7 were then still alive. Their 24 year old son Henry, a Boot & Shoe Operator, was still living with them.
Until September 1911 the quarterly index published by the General Registrars Office did not show information about the mothers maiden name. A check of the General Registrars Office Index of Birth for England and Wales 1911 – 1983 shows no likely additional matches for children of Alfred and Beatrice. However checking out the name of the administrator of the estate of Beatrice I found the birth of an Alfred G Blazeby, mothers maiden name Browne, was registered with the Civil Authorities in the District of Norwich in the October to December quarter, (Q4), of 1915.
On the day
On the morning of 24 March the Division arrived in the area of Senlis, Warloy and Bouzincourt. A tiring and confusing day was to follow. That afternoon, 36 and 37 Brigades moved forward to the line Montauban-Bazentin le Grand, on the old 1916 Somme battlefield. But events were moving fast as the enemy's offensive pressed forward. 35 Brigade after much marching took up a position covering Albert. 37 Brigade, in the area of Ovillers, covered the withdrawal of 47th (London) Division and then itself withdrew to Aveluy and by 4.30am on 26 March 36 Brigade had also taken up a position west of the Ancre. There were no prepared trenches or wire defences and natural lines, such as the railway embankment north of Albert, were taken up to await the expected German attack. There was no touch with other Divisions to the right but contact was made with 2nd Division on the left.
Soon after midday on 26 March, Germans were seen advancing down the slopes into the Ancre valley. They were also seen in large numbers to the south of Albert moving on Meaulte and Dernancourt and by 7pm Albert itself was full of them. The 7/Suffolks had to withdraw through the ruined town to west of the railway line. On the northern side too, it seemed that the Division was in great danger of being outflanked, for enemy had got to Grandcourt and Beaumont Hamel. All units came under increasing pressure as the enemy pressed on. Many enemy attacks were repelled with heavy casualties, although the Division suffered 1634 casualties in halting their advance.
On the 26th March 1918 the 7th Suffolks were defending the Albert bridgehead, back to positions they had constructed 2 years previously. The force of the German onslaught (The Kaiserschlact) meant they had their backs to the wall, with very little equipment, no artillery support, no bombs, rifle grenade, trench mortars or even sufficient shovels. They were along the railway line, the left company resting on the Albert railway station, the right about 300 yards south of the Albert-Amiens road. Several attacks were beaten off but at 10.20pm the Germans attacked in strength. Attack and counter attack ensued, but the Suffolk had to pull back 300 yards, but managed at last to stabilise this position. One platoon was reduced to 3 men. Short of food and water they were relieved just before dawn on the 28th.
In the three days 26-28th, they had suffered 256 casualties. Of these 73 were killed on the 27th, with only 10 of them having identified graves.
badwellash.onesuffolk.net/badwell-ash-history/world-war-o...
Postscript
It may be a co-incidence but the death of a Caroline B Blazeby, aged 83, was recorded in the Norwich District in the January to March quarter, (Q1), of 1964.
The 1964 Probate Calendar records that a Caroline Beatrice Blazeby of 128 Spencer Street, Norwich, a widow, died 2 March 1964. Administration of her estate was granted at the Norwich Court on the 18 March to Alfred George Blazeby, a gas board official. Her estate was valued at £246.
This picture appeared in the edition of the Norwich Mercury dated Saturday November 10th 1917. The accompanying caption read “ Pte. P.A. Norman, South Lowestoft, killed in action.”
The In memoriam column in the editions of the Norwich Mercury dated Wednesday September 25th 1918 and Saturday September 28th 1918 included the following notice:-
NORMAN – In loving memory of Private Gordon H. Norman, Suffolk Regiment, killed in action September 28th, 1916; also Private Percy A.J. Norman, Bedford Regiment, killed in action November 13th, 1916, dearly loved sons of Mr. and Mrs. Norman, 10, Reeve Street, Lowestoft.
“We miss them when the morning dawn,
We miss them when the nights return;
We miss them here, we miss them there –
O God, we miss them everywhere.”
From their loving Mother and Father and Sisters.
That soldier on CWGC is:-
NORMAN, PERCIVAL A. J.
Rank:……………………..Private
Service No:……………….29721
Date of Death:……………13/11/1916
Regiment:………………..Bedfordshire Regiment, 4th Bn.
Panel Reference:…………Pier and Face 2 C.
Memorial:………………..THIEPVAL MEMORIAL
Source: www.cwgc.org/find-war-dead/casualty/806609/NORMAN,%20PERC...
Soldiers Died in the Great War records that Private Percival A J Norman was Killed in Action on the 13th November 1916 whilst serving with the 4th Battalion Bedfordshire Regiment. He was born Lowestoft, resident Ipswich and enlisted Bury St Edmunds.
The Medal Index Card for Private 29721 Percival A J Norman, Bedfordshire Regiment, is held at the National Archive under reference WO 372/15/4396
Source: discovery.nationalarchives.gov.uk/details/r/D4403523
He qualified for the British War Medal and the Victory Medal. There is no additional information on the card.
His Service Records do not appear to have survived the incendiary attack during the Blitz on the Warehouse where all the Other Ranks Army Service Records were stored.
No obvious Missing Persons enquiry received by the International Red Cross.
No obvious Soldiers Will or Civil Probate for this man.
He is remembered in the War Memorial Chapel at St Margaret, Lowestoft. (See comment below for an image of the relevant panel).
1887 – Birth………………………….
The birth of a Percival Albert J Norman was registered with the Civil Authorities in the Mutford District of Suffolk in the July to September quarter, (Q3), of 1887.
The Mutford Civil Registration District included the town of Lowestoft and the adjoining village of Kirkley. The two would effectively merge in the 1890’s.
1891 Census of England and Wales
The 4 year old Percy Norman, born Kirkley, was recorded living at 10 Reeve Street, Lowestoft. This was the household of his parents, James, (aged 33 - ? tbc, a Railway Labourer, born Lowestoft), and Margaret, (aged 32, a Tailoress, born Kirkley). As well as Percy their other children living with them are:-
Hannah…….aged 12…..born Lowestoft
Edith……….aged 9……born Lowestoft
James………aged 7……born Lowestoft
Gordon……..aged 1……born Lowestoft
1901 Census of England and Wales
The Norman family were still living at 10 Reeve Street. As well as parents James, (42, now shown as a G.E.R. Labourer) and Margaret, (42, still a Tailoress) the following unmarried children were still recorded living with them – Louisa, (19, Beatster), James, (17, Errand Boy), Percy, (13, Errand Boy), Gordon, (11), Maggie, (4), Edith, (2) and Bertie, (1).
Louisa, James & Percy are shown as born Kirkley, while the rest of the children are born Lowestoft.
1908 – Marriage …………………….
The marriage of a Percival Albert J Norman to an Emily Ethel Youngman was recorded in the Mutford District in the January to March quarter, (Q1), of 1908.
1911 Census of England and Wales
The 23 year old Percival Norman, a House Furnishers’ Carman from Lowestoft, was recorded as the married head of the household at 29 Harvey Cottage, Thurston Road, Lowestoft. He lives there with his wife of three years, Emily, (aged 24 and a self employed dressmaker from Harrogate, Yorkshire). The couple have had just the one child so far, the 2 year old Percival, born Lowestoft.
This was the first census completed by the householder rather than a census taker taker going door to door. There was thus a declaration to be signed that the information concerned was correct and accurate as far as the person completing the form was concerned. The signature on this one read “Percival A J Norman”.
Until September 1911 the quarterly index published by the General Registrars Office did not show information about the mothers’ maiden name. A check of the General Registrars Office Index of Birth for England and Wales 1911 – 1983 shows no obvious additional children of Percival and Emily.
On the day
13/11/16: Beaucourt Sector 6.45 pm - Bn attacked at 6.45 am.
Appendix A: Operations on the North Bank of the ANCRE - Nov 13th 1916. The Battalion advanced with the remainder of the Brigade at 6.45 am and sustained heavy casualties among Officers and NCOs in and near the enemy front line from a strongpoint established between enemy front line and second line which had been passed over by the leading Brigades. Battalion advanced to enemy second line and from there parties pushed forward to Station Road and beyond. Casualties Officers Killed:
Captain F.G.C.Ashmead-Bartlett [Francis George Coningsby ASHMEAD-BARTLETT], Lieut.B.L.S. Frere [Bartle Laurie Stuart FRERE],
Lieut.R.H.Boys [Richard Harvey BOYS],
Lieut.W.A.Turnbull [William Arthur TURNBULL],
2nd Lieut.J. Brodie [John BRODIE],
2nd Lieut.H.B.Hudson [Harold Baldwin HUDSON],
2nd Lieut.S.H. Agate [Sidney Herbert AGATE],
2nd Lieut.T.H. Hill [Thomas Hooten HILL]. Died of Wounds,
2nd Lieut.L.S. Wilkinson [Leslie Stuart WILKINSON].
Wounded 2nd Lieut.A.R.Fraser [Arthur Ronald FRASER],
2nd Lieut.L.BROOKS,
2nd Lieut.W.R.Bridges [William Robert BRIDGES],
2nd Lieut.R.J.Thomas [Reginald James THOMAS],
Lieut.G.ARTHUR RAMC .
Other Ranks Killed: 48, Died of Wounds - 9, Wounded - 108, Missing - 16 In the evening all available men were withdrawn and taken down to HAMEL, refitted and moved into position in Station Road, close to BEAUCOURT Road
www.bedfordregiment.org.uk/4thbn/4thbtn1916diary.html
Beaucourt
Immediately north of the River Ancre the 63rd (Naval) Division was in action. This division attacked with 188 Bde on the left, 189 Bde on the right and 190 Bde in support. 190 Bde included 10th Bn Royal Dublin Fusiliers. At Zero Hour Hood and Drake Battalions (189 Bde) took the German front line in the face of heavy MG fire. The two battalions moved on to take Beaucourt Station and Station Road. 1st Bn of the Honourable Artillery Company then took The Mound and cleared the dugouts in the railway embankment. The rest of the attack was foundering under the German machine guns with the other two battalions of 189 Bde (Hawke and Nelson) and 188 Bde failing to breach the German line except in isolated areas. Bringing forward the support battalions made little difference although by 8am about 400 men of the Hood and Drake had dug in short of Beaucourt. Throughout the day, bombing attacks were made against a strongpoint on Beaumont Hamel Spur but by nightfall, the furthest advance was into the German support line. After dark 111 Bde of 37th Div was sent to reinforce the attack on Beaucourt.
forum.irishmilitaryonline.com/showthread.php?9058-The-Som...
Mildly photoshopped to minimise impact of damage present on the original image.
Family headstone in Earlham Cemetery.
In
loving memory of
GORDON AMOND
who died Febry. 13th 1893
Aged 65 years
Also
ELIZABETH
his beloved wife
who died Decr. 2nd 1878
aged 49 years.
Peace, perfect peace.
Also of
GODWIN GORDON AMOND
eldest son of the above
of the R.D.C.
who died in the General Military Hospital,
Edmonton
September ?? 1917
Aged??
Private AMOND, GODWIN
Service Number:…………. 26303
Died:………………………30/09/1917
Aged:…………………….. 61
Unit:………………………56th Coy. Royal Defence Corps
Son of the late Gordon and Elizabeth Amond, of Norwich.
Buried at NORWICH CEMETERY, NORFOLK
Cemetery/memorial reference: 23. 284.
Source: www.cwgc.org/find-war-dead/casualty/2803029/amond,-godwin/
Soldiers Died in the Great War records that Private Godwin Amond “Died” on the 30th September 1917 whilst serving on the Home Front with the Royal Defence Corps. He was formerly 24138 “Norwich” Regiment. No place of birth or residence is shown for him. He enlisted at Norwich.
(“Died” in SDGW terms means anything other than Killed in Action or Died of Wounds (received in action)).
There is no obvious Medal Index Card for this soldier.
Some of his Service Records appear to have survived the incendiary attack during the Blitz on the Warehouse where all the Other Ranks Army Service Records were stored.
Godwin, then aged 49 years and 4 months was already serving with the 1st Norfolk R Ga Volunteers when the Territorial Force was created in 1908 and he transferred across to the 2nd East Anglian Brigade. He completed a new attestation form, signing up for one year, although due to damage to the form the date, other than being in 1908, is impossible to make out the full date.
He gave his birthplace as King Street in the Parish of St Peter, Norwich. (To the best of my knowledge at least four parishes claimed a part of King Street at that time). His address was 1 Wattons(?) Court, King Street. He was a single man.
Of his physical description the only part I can make out that wasn’t fire damaged was that he was 5 feet 8 inches (tall).
There is an entry in the prior service section. I can’t make out the unit but the dates look to be 20.3.76 to 28.2.83 and then 7.2.0? to 31.3.08.
He attended his units Annual Training at Shoeburyness on the 24.7.08.
There are some earlier attestation forms in the service records but due to fire damage they are difficult to make out and date. There is one when he was 42 years old and another that could be from 1906 or 1908 which shows him serving in the 2nd Position(?) Battery, 1st N.A. Volunteer Corps at Great Yarmouth.
No obvious Soldiers Will or Civil Probate for this man.
1856/57 – birth………………………
The birth of a Godwin Amond was registered with the Civil Authorities in the Norwich District in the Norwich District in the January to March quarter, (Q1), of 1857.
At this point enforcement of registration with the civil authorities was very hit and miss – non-registrations and late registrations were supposed to be prosecuted and fined but seldom were – it would take a major over-haul in 1872 to bring the UK anywhere near 100% compliance. Many births took place at home without any qualified medical attendance so it was also impossible to verify dates of birth. It cannot therefore be assumed that that Godwin was actually born in the period when he was registered.
I could not find an online baptism for him.
1861 Census of England and Wales
The 4 year old “Gordon” Amond, born Norwich, was recorded living at Bussey’s Yard, Ber Street, Norwich. This was the household of his parents Gordon, (aged 32, a Cordwainer, born Norwich), and Elizabeth, (aged 30, a Shoe binder, Norwich). As well as their son “Gordon” the couple also have a 1 year old daughter, Mary A, born Norwich. Also living with them is Elizabeths’ mother, the 70 year old widow Louisa Yallop, a Washerwoman born Rushall, Norfolk.
1871 Census of England and Wales
The 14 year old “Gordon” Amond, a Book, (or Boot) seller, born Norwich, was recorded living with his grandmother at a dwelling in Murrells Yard, King Street, Norwich. She was the 79 year old widow Mary Amond, born Bergh Apton, Norfolk. Mary has two unmarried children of her own living with her, the 56 year old Mary, a “Lumpertease”(?), born Norwich and the 41 year old Edward, a Shoemaker, born Norwich.
His parents Gordon, (42, Shoe maker) and Elizabeth, (39) were now living at 1 Watson Court, Kings Street, Norwich, along with three of their children,
Emeline………….aged 11……….born Norwich
Edward…………..aged 9………...born Norwich
Henry……………aged 2…………born Norwich
2nd December 1878 – death of mother Elizabeth……
Information from headstone.
1881 Census of England and Wales
The 24 year old Godwin Amond*, a Solicitors Clerk from Norwich, was recorded living at Murrells Yard, King Street. This was the household of his uncle, Edward Amond, who was single, aged 50 and a Waiter, born Norwich. Other members of the household were Edwards’ mother, the 88 year old widow Mary Amond, born Saxlingham, Norfolk and Edwards’ unmarried sisters Eliza, (38, Shoe Finisher, born Norwich) and Mary Ann, (aged 65, born Norwich).
(*the Genealogy source I use for basic census look-ups has transcribed all of them with the surname “Almond”.)
His 59 year old widower father Gordon Amond was still living at Watson’s Yard, King Street, Norwich. He was working as a Shoemaker. Living with him are his unmarried children Elizabeth, (22, Shop Woman), Edward, (19, Shoe Maker), Henry, (12) and Alice, (7) – all born Norwich.
1887 Norfolk Electoral Register………
A Godwin Amond appears on this edition of the electoral register as a Citizen of Norwich and entitled to vote in Parliamentary Elections. He qualifies on the grounds of being a householder of a Public-House at 23 Bishopgate Street, Norwich. This appears to be the only time he turned up on the electoral register.
Source: www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:2C9H-MQ9
1891 Census of England and Wales
The census taker for this one has recorded Gordon, a 34 year old unmarried Solicitors’ Clerk, as living at Watsons Court, King Street, Norwich, but he has shown the family surname as “Ammond. Head of the household was his widower father Gordon, a 63 year old shoemaker.Also in the household are Godwins’ sisters Mary Ann, (31, Machinist) and Alice, (29, Tailoress).
13th February 1893 – death of father Gordon…
Information from headstone.
1901 Census of England and Wales
The 45 year old Godwin Amond, an unmarried Solicitors Clerk born Norwich, was recorded as the head of the household at No.1 Watson Court, King Street, Norwich. Living with him are his unmarried sisters Mary Ann, (aged 41, a Tailoress, born Norwich) and Alice, (aged 27, a Boot Machinist, born Norwich).
1911 Census of England and Wales
The three of them were still living at 1 Watsons Court. King Street, Norwich, but sister Mary Ann, (52, Tailoress), was now recorded as the head of the household. Sister Alice, (37) works as a Boot & Shoe Sewing Machinist, while Godwin, (55) is working as a Hotel Waiter.
His unit………………………………………
The Royal Defence Corps of 1916-1918
Formation
The Royal Defence Corps was introduced by a Royal Warrant of 17 March 1916 and promulgated by Army Order 115 of 19 March 1916.
The Warrant deemed the RDC to be Corps for the purposes of the Army Act and that the rates of pay should be those for the infantry of the line as laid down in the pay warrant of 1 December 1914.
The RDC was defined in further detail in Army Council Instruction (ACI) 841 of 19 April 1916. It had been created “To carry out duties connected with the local defence of the United Kingdom, including those hitherto performed by the Supernumerary Territorial Force Companies, as well as those allotted to the Observer Companies now in process of formation“.
The Supernumerary Territorial Force Companies had previously been known as Protection Companies of the National Reserve.
Transfer of officers and men who were already serving
In the case of the “other ranks” serving in the Supernumerary Territorial Force Companies on Territorial attestations, it would (because of the terms of their engagement) be necessary to obtain their consent to transfer to the RDC. Any men who were unwilling to transfer would, for the present time, be attached to the RDC.
Men serving in the existing Observer Companies were generally of the regular army. They would be transferred to the RDC from their existing regiments.
The RDC would consist of two types of unit:
1.Protection Companies. They would take over the duties of the Supernumerary Territorial Force Companies and would come into existence on 29 April 1916. While it was expected that the number of such units would vary across the army’s geographical command areas, company numbers were issued in blocks of 50.
Protection Companies 51-100 would be for Eastern Command.
2.Observer Companies. They would be numbered consecutively in their own sequence, starting from 1.
In April 1918 some 27,000 men were serving in the RDC. Of these, 14,000 were employed at prisoner of war camps.
www.longlongtrail.co.uk/army/regiments-and-corps/the-roya...
On the day…………………
The Army Register of Soldiers Effects records that Private 26303 Godwin Amond, 56th Company. Royal Defence Corps, died at the Military Hospital, Edmonton on the 30th September 1917, although cause is not shown. The balance of his pay went in April 1918 to his sisters Mary and Alice. After the war was over and a gratuity was paid to those who served, this was sent in December 1919 to his sister Mary.
The death of a Godwin Amond, aged 62, was recorded in the Edmonton District of Middlesex in the October to December quarter, (Q4), of 1917.
The edition of the Eastern Daily Press dated Wednesday 3rd October 19178 included the following simple announcement in the Births, Marriages and Deaths column.
AMOND-September 30, at the General Military Hospital, Edmonton, Godwin (Gordon), of the Royal Defence Corps, Watson’s Court, King Street, Norwich, aged 61.
It’s probably a complete co-incidence but the Germans had launched a number of air-raids on London, starting with the night of the 30th September. Contemporary newspapers like the Eastern Daily Press were reporting bombs (and casualties) in Essex, North East London, South East London and Kent. However if he was caught in an air raid then you’d expect him to have been treated in a hospital closer to those areas.
The Norwich Mercury dated 27th October 1917 has this picture.
The accompanying text reads:-
Sapper T.H.Claxton, R.E, husband of Mrs. Claxton, Exhibition Stores, Lowestoft, died of wounds received in action.
CLAXTON, THOMAS KILWICK
Rank:…………………......Sapper
Service No:…………….156345
Date of Death:………..04/10/1917
Regiment:……………….Royal Engineers
………………………….......250th Tunnelling Coy.
Grave Reference:…..XXVII. E. 9.
Cemetery:………………ETAPLES MILITARY CEMETERY
CWGC: www.cwgc.org/find-war-dead/casualty/499954/CLAXTON,%20THO...
SDGW records that Sapper Thomas Kilwick Claxton Died of Wounds on the 4th October 1917 whilst serving with the 250th Tunnelling Company, Royal Engineers. He was born and enlisted Lowestoft. No place of residence is shown.
The Medal Index Card for Sapper 156345 Thomas K Claxton, Royal Engineers, is held at the National Archive under reference WO 372/4/153785
He had previously been Private 3/9504 in the Suffolk Regiment.
discovery.nationalarchives.gov.uk/details/r/D1833410
Some of his Army Service Records survived the burning down in the Blitz of the Warehouse where they were all stored, although they are burnt and torn and water damaged.
He enlisted on the 29th August 1914, embarked for France on the 7th October 1914, joining up with the 2nd Suffolks on the 5th November 1914. His Suffolk Serial number looks like 3/9564, although its heavily faded. At his medical at Bury St Edmunds on the 30th August 1914 he was recorded as 31 years and 2 months old, 5 feet 11.5 inches tall, weighed 163lbs, and had a fair complexion with Green eyes and light brown hair. There were no distinguishing marks.
His marriage to Alice Maud Davis, spinster, has been recorded, but the section relating to where and when has been ripped. The couple have two children recorded.
Thomas Llewellyn born 24th May 1909 at Lowestoft. Baptised Lowestoft 17th June-99(?)
(Thomas’ birth was originally recorded as 1899 but that was amended)
Robert Henry born 5th May 1912 at Lowestoft. Baptised Lowestoft 15th June 1912.
He was wounded in action on the 18th September 1915, receiving a Gun Shot Wound to his Left Hand and ??? – (the next entries of his service record have been subject to water damage, probably from the fire-fighting). He was admitted first to 52 Field Ambulance, then 7(?) Field Ambulance and the 50th Casualty Clearing Station. He was in the UK from the 21st October 1915 to the 25th October 1915 before returning to France. The next entries in the location column are difficult to make out, best guess would be that he rejoined the Battalion but was then attached to another unit, possibly a Tunnelling Company. In a note dated 13th February 1916 he rejoined the 2nd Suffolks.
In a note dated 30th April he was attached to the 250th Tunnelling Company R.E. effective 23rd April 1916. He was subsequently transferred to the Royal Engineers, although this was backdated to the 9th April 1916. His formal transfer request gives his civilian occupation as “Excavator”.
He was “re-mustered”as a Tunneller on the 23rd June 1916 downgraded to Tunnellers Mate on the 22nd September 1916, (“for laziness”), and then Tunneller again on the 7th December 1916. He received his mortal wounds, recorded as Gun Shot Wounds to the Back and a Compound fracture of the left femur on the 22nd September 1917. He died at No.7 Canadian General Hospital on the 4th October 1917.
His personal effects were to be sent to Mrs Alice M. Claxton, of Exhibition Stores, 87 High Street, Lowestoft according to a memo dated 26th March 1918.
A pension was awarded to Harrys’ widow and two children.
At the end of the War the Government decided to pay a War Gratuity to all men who had seen active service. In the case of Thomas this involved sending Army Form W.5080 to the last known next of kin, asking for details of surviving relatives following the current priority list for inheritance.
Alice Maud, his widow, completed the form in March 1920. The form has suffered considerably from water damage and fading. She was still living at 87 High Street, Lowestoft. The couple had three children who were still alive – Robert Henry, (born May 1912), Thomas Llewellyn, (born May 1909) and Elsie May, (born September 1889). Obviously that last date at first glance does not make sense.
Thomas’ father was Robert Crane Claxton. He and his wife Elizabeth live at 37 Crown Street, Lowestoft.
The section for Harrys’ brothers is just about readable. They were Albert William, (?), aged 44, of 139 Gipsy Road, Norwich and William (?) Henry (?), aged 28, of 19 Yale Road, New Barsford(?). I think there are 5 sisters but other than the age of the oldest being 42, the rest is indecipherable.
The 1918 Probate Calendar records that Thomas Kilwick Claxton, of 87 High Street, Lowestoft, Sapper 156345 of the 250th Tunnelling Company, Royal Engineers, died at Etaples in France on the 4th October 1917. Administration of his estate was awarded at the Ipswich Court on the 27th March 1918 to a widow, Alice Maud Claxton. His effects were valued at £65 19d 1d.
probatesearch.service.gov.uk/Calendar?surname=Claxton&...
From the Norwich Mercury Births, Deaths and Marriages column, Saturday, October 20, 1917.
DIED OF WOUNDS
CLAXTON – In loving memory of Sapper T.K.Claxton, R.E. Thomas Claxton, the dearly beloved husband of Maud Claxton, Exhibition Stores, Lowestoft, who died of wounds, October 4th 1917.
“ He (????) beside his comrades,
In hallowed graves unknown,
But his name is written in letters of love,
In the hearts he left at home.”
From his sorrowing Wife and Children, Father and Mother, Sisters and Brothers.
1883 – Birth
The birth of a Thomas Kilwick Claxton was recorded in the July to September quarter, (Q3), of 1883 in the Mutford District of Suffolk.
1891 Censuses of England & Wales and Scotland
I could not initially find Thomas on this census, but having found in 1901 and 1911 it proved possible to track him – the Genealogy site I use has mistranscribed him and his family as having the surname “Clayton”.
Parents are Robert, (aged 43, a Coal Dealer, born Lowestoft) and Elizabeth, (aged 39, born Lowestoft). Children living with them at this time are:-
Robert…..aged 15...born Lowestoft…Post Errand Boy
Ellen…….aged 13..born Lowestoft
Elizabeth..aged 11..born Lowestoft
Gertrude…aged 10..born Lowestoft
Thomas….aged 7…born Lowestoft
May……..aged 5....born Lowestoft
Maud……aged 2…born Lowestoft
The most likely match for his future wife is a 10 year old Alice M Davis, born Lowestoft, who was recorded living at 37 Seago Street, Lowestoft. This was the household of her parents Henry, (45, a Mariner, born Kessingland, Suffolk) and Emma, (45, born Halesworth, Suffolk). As well as Alice the couple have 4 other children living with them
Alice is probably also on the 1881 census. Aged 8 months she was living, along with her twin sister Ethel as 45 Raglan Street West, Lowestoft. The adult in the household is her married mother Emma, (aged 35, born Halesworth). Emma give her relationship to the head of the household as Wife and her occupation looks like Sailors Wife, although this has been scored through probably by the census enumerator – this has been done for two other entries by women on the same page where they have made similar statements in the occupation column.
1901 Censuses of England & Wales and Scotland
The 17 year old Thomas Claxton, born Lowestoft and a Coal Dealer, was recorded living at 121 Wollaston Road, Lowestoft. This was the household of his parents, Robert, (aged 53, Coal Dealer, born Lowestoft) and Elizabeth, (aged 49, born Lowestoft). As well as Thomas their other children living with them are:-
Robert……aged 25……born Lowestoft….Groom
Gertrude…aged 20…….born Lowestoft
Thomas…..aged 17……born Lowestoft
May………aged 15……born Lowestoft
Maud……..aged 12……born Lowestoft
William…..aged 8……..born Lowestoft
The 20 year old Alice Maud Davis, single and a Dressmaker working at home, was still recorded living with her parents Henry, (55, Mariner employed by J J Colman) and Emma, (55), at 37 Seago Street, Lowestoft. Henry and Emma have four other unmarried children living with them and a grand-daughter, “Elsea” Davis, aged 19 months and born Lowestoft.
1908 – Marriage
The marriage of a Thomas Kilwick Claxton to an Alice Maud Davis was recorded in the Mutford District of Suffolk in the July to September quarter, (Q3), of 1908.
24th May 1909 – birth of son Thomas Llewellyn
(Source – Army Service records)
The birth of a Thomas Llewellyn Claxton was recorded in the Mutford District in the April to June quarter, (Q2), of 1909.
1911 Census of England and Wales
The 27 year old Thomas Kilwick Claxton, a married Seaman in the Coal Trade(?), was recorded as the head of the household at 22 Avondale Road, Lowestoft. He lives there with his wife Alice Maud, (aged 30, born Lowestoft). The couple state they have been married 2 years and have had just the one child, but two are recorded living with them. The eldest is Elsie Mary Claxton, aged 11 and born Lowestoft. The youngest is Thomas Llewellyn Claxton, aged 1 and born Lowestoft.
His widowed mother Elizabeth, (59), was recorded as the head of the household at 121 Wollaston Road, Lowestoft. She states she was married 36 years and has had 8 children, all then still alive. Still single and living with her are Gertrude, (30, Fishing Net Mender), Maud, (22, Tailoress), and William, (18, Printer).
Post August 1911 it had become compulsory when registering the birth of a child with the Civil Authorities in England and Wales to also record the mothers maiden name. A check of the General Registrars Office Index of Births for England and Wales produces just the one likely additional child – a Robert H Claxton, mothers maiden name Davis, whose birth was registered in the Mutford District in the April to June quarter, (Q2), of 1912. This would tie in with the Robert Henry who was born 5th May 1912 according to his fathers service records.
On the day
We know from his Service record that he received his mortal wounds, recorded as Gun Shot Wounds to the Back and a Compound fracture of the left femur on the 22nd September 1917.
250th Tunnelling Company, Royal Engineers was formed in Rouen in October 1915. They dug the deep-level mines at Petit Bois, Peckham and Spanbroekmolen under the Messines Ridge and successfully detonated their mines at 3.10am on the 7th of June 1917.
www.plugstreet-archaeology.com/250TunnellingCoyRE.php
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/250th_Tunnelling_Company
www.longlongtrail.co.uk/army/regiments-and-corps/the-corp...
After the blowing of the tunnels under the Messines Ridge, the offensive and defensive tunnelling war practically came to an end. While there was still work to do in terms of building deep-dug-outs, the book Armageddon’s Walls: British Pill Boxes 1914-1918 makes reference to the 250th Tunnelling Company being utilised in the building of these from pre-fabricated sections in late 1917 \ early 1918.
books.google.co.uk/books?id=jmttBQAAQBAJ&pg=SL1-PA29&...
(Mildy photoshopped to try and remove the worst of the damage to the source image).
Jean Wilson had numerous convictions for housebreaking and theft. She preferred stealing jewellery as it could be easily pawned for money. She also robbed her employer. Wilson was charged with larceny, for which she served a 12-month sentence. Charged with: break, enter and steal and larceny. Aged: 23 in 1924? DOB: 1904. From: Wellington, NZ. Occupation: tailoress. Criminal associates: James Britton alias Wynne and Alice Batty.
8023 Private
ROBERT JOHN BRAZIER
Norfolk Regiment
19th February 1919 Age 47.
BRAZIER, ROBERT JOHN
Rank:……………………………..Private
Service No:……………….….8023
Date of Death:………………19/02/1919
Age:……………………………….47
Regiment:………………………Norfolk Regiment
1st Bn. transf. to (401255) 675th H S Employment Coy. Labour Corps
Grave Reference:………….54. 189.
Cemetery:...........................NORWICH CEMETERY, NORFOLK
Additional Information:
Husband of Annie Elizabeth Brazier, of 28, Sun Lane, New Catton, Norwich.
CWGC: www.cwgc.org/find-war-dead/casualty/2803063/BRAZIER,%20RO...
No match on Soldiers Died in the Great War.
The Medal Index Card for Private 401255 Robert J. Brazier, Labour Corps is held at the National Archive under reference WO 372/3/50730.
He was previously Private 8023 Norfolk Regiment.
discovery.nationalarchives.gov.uk/details/r/D1465573
His Regimental Service Medal Rolls shows that he served with the 1st Battalion, Norfolk Regiment and the Labour Corps.
He was entitled to the British War Medal & the Victory Medal, as well as the 1914/15 Star.
His WW1 Service Records do not appear to have survived the incendiary attack during the Blitz on the Warehouse where all the Army service records were stored. However a few brief records appear to have survived from an earlier period of service.
A Robert John Brazier, aged 18 years and 11 months, born Lakenham, Norwich, enlisted at Norwich on the 8th November 1892 for General Service in the Infantry. He was already serving in the Territorial Army with the 4th Battalion, Norfolk Regiment. A single man, he was a Labourer by trade. His next of kin was his father, John Brazier, of 17 Portland Place, New Lakenham, Norwich. At his medical he weighed 126lbs and was 5 feet 6 and seven-eights tall. He had a sallow complexion, with brown eyes and black hair. He was found fit for the Army. He was posted to the Lincolnshire Regiment on the 10th November and given service number 3338.
After his initial training at the Depot he was posted to the 1st Battalion on the 7th January 1893. He them moved to either the 2nd or 3rd Battalion, (bad handwriting) on the 12th December 1893. They were then serving in the Straits Settlement.He received his first Good Conduct pay rise on the 8th November 1894.
His next move saw him back with the 1st Battalion from the 19th April 1895 at Malta, moving with them To Egypt on the 4th February 1897, taking part in the Nile Expedition and fighting in the Battles of Albara and Khartoum and serving there until the 18th October 1898, when the Battalion arrived in India. He received a 2nd Good Conduct pay increase on the 8th November 1898.
On the 17th February 1902 he transfers again to the 2nd or 3rd Battalion who were serving in South Africa and in July 1902 he received a War Gratuity which is stated to have been paid in South Africa. Arriving back in the UK on the 7th September 1902, he then had a Bounty Furlough from the 10th September 1902 to the 10th February 1903 before being transferred to the Reserve on the 11th February 1903. He received medals for his service in the Sudan and in South Africa.
He subsequently re-engaged on the 14th October 1904 and was discharged on the 7th November 1908.
1872 – Birth and Baptism
The birth of a Robert John Brazier was registered with the Civil Authorities in the District of Norwich in the April to June quarter, (Q2), of 1872.
The baptism of a Robert John Brazier, born 20th March 1872, took place on the Norwich Primitive Methodist Circuit on the 12th September 1872. Parents were John, a Mustard Maker, and Martha.
www.freereg.org.uk/search_records/5818cdeee93790eca3dc9bf...
There is no obvious marriage of a John Brazier to a Martha in the Civil records – however before 1911 the quarterly published indexes for England and Wales issued by the General Registrars Office did not cross reference who married who. Much work has been done over the years by genealogy sites to try and tie down this, but most go no further than identifying all the individuals recorded on one particular page of each register. There is no likely match for any John Brazier getting married in the Norwich District.
After finding the correct names, (in my opinion), I then went looking for a likely marriage. It may be a coincidence but it looks like a John Bruce married a Martha Brazier in the Norwich District in the April to June quarter, (Q2), of 1872.
1881 Census of England and Wales
There is no obvious match for Robert John or his parents on this census. However having found a possible candidate on the 1891 census I came back and looked again using those names and ages – see below.
The Bruce family were already living at Portland Place, Lakenham, Norwich. Parents John, (50, Mustardmaker, born Downham, Norfolk), and Martha, (32, born Cambridge) were living there with their unmarried children:-
Elizabeth……..aged 22…..born Norwich…Starch Packer
Harriet………..aged 16…..born Norwich…Housemaid
John…………..aged 11…..born Norwich
Robert J………aged 9……born Norwich
Edward J……..aged 5…….born Norwich.
1891 Census of England and Wales
There is no obvious match for Robert John or his parents on this census. However, living at 17 Portland Place, Lakenham, (the address for his father John when Robert enlisted in November 1892) was a family whose surname to me looks like Bruce, although the genealogy site I use for basic Census look ups has transcribed it as “Bruel”.
The family consists of father John, (aged 61?, a Mustard Worker, born Wareham(?), Norfolk) and mother Martha, (aged 42, a Tailoress, born Cambridge) and children:-
Harriet…..aged 25….born Norwich…..Tailoress
Robert…..aged 19…..born Norwich…..General Labourer
Edward…aged 14…...born Norwich….General Labourer
George….aged 9…….born Norwich
It may be a coincidence but living next door is a 70 year old widow, Elizabeth Bales, born Freethorpe, Norwich. Part of her household is an 11 year old grandson, William Bruce, born Norwich.
The death of a 65 year old John Bruce was recorded in the Norwich District in the April to June quarter, (Q2), of 1896.
1901 Census of England and Wales
Robert was in India at this time so will not be recorded on the census.
His widowed mother, the 53 year old Martha Bruce, a Tailors Machinist working from home, was recorded as the head of the household at 104 Millers Lane, New Catton, Norwich. She lives there with her unmarried daughter “Harriett” who like her mother works from home, but as a Jacket Finisher.
The most likely candidate for his future wife is the 34 year old unmarried Anne E. Youngman, an employed Tailoress working from home, born Jarrow, Durham, who was recorded living at No.10, Sprowston Road, Norwich, with her parents. They are Charles, (58, Carpenter, born Upper Sheringham, Norfolk) and Susannah, (57, born South Creake, Norfolk, sadly recorded as paralysed). “Their” other children living with them are:-
‘Chas’ Henry……aged 31…..born Langham, Norfolk…Paper Hanger
Harriet Alice…….aged 13…..born Norwich
Willie Hubert……aged 2……born Norwich
1905 – Marriage
The marriage of a Robert John Brazier to an Annie Elizabeth Youngman was recorded in the Norwich District in the July to September quarter, (Q3), of 1905.
1911 Census of England and Wales
The 39 year old Robert John Brazier, a General Labourer at the Norfolk Iron Works, born New Lakenham, Norwich, was recorded as the married head of the household at No.106 Millers Lane, New Catton. He lives there with his wife of 5 years, Annie ‘Elizth’ (aged 45, born Newcastle on Tyne). The couple have had two children so far, the twins George Herbert and Sydney Walter, aged 5 and born Norwich. Robert also has a step-son living with him, the 13 year old William Herbert Youngman, (born Norwich). Completing the household is a 41 year old unmarried boarder, Henry Charles Youngman, a Paper Hanger born Langham, Norfolk.
His mother, the 63 year old Martha E Bruce, born Cambridge, was recorded living with her married son George at 16 Russell Street, Wisbech.
Until September 1911 the quarterly index published by the General Registrars Office did not show information about the mothers maiden name. A check of the General Registrars Office Index of Birth for England and Wales 1911 – 1983 shows no likely additional children of Robert and Martha.
On the day
The death of a 48 year old Robert J Brazier was recorded in the Norwich District in the January to March quarter, (Q1), of 1919.
The Government Probate Service holds a Soldiers Will for 401255 Robert Brazier who died on the 19th February 1919.
probatesearch.service.gov.uk/Wills?Surname=Brazier&Su...
Postscript
It looks like Annie probably died, aged 60, in the Norwich District in the April to June quarter, (Q2), of 1927.
Clarence TEASDALE-BUCKELL
For photo see
In loving memory of
C. TEASDALE-BUCKELL
Commander Royal Navy
15 October 1884 – 18 April 1963
He lived for others
Birth registered in Stafford District, Staffordshire last quarter 1883[1]
Marriage: last quarter 1917 to Alice M.M. BOWLIN**, Medway [Kent] district Volume 2a Page 1673[3] I cannot find her death on ancestry.com and she is not buried with Clarence.
Residence: 1922 Barnet, Hendon electorate - 16 Temple Gardens[2]
Death registration 1963/24068
Burial 20 April 1963
Protestant Lawn C Row 4 Plot 80
Funeral Director: Battersby Funeral Services
OFFICERS RECOMMENDED TO BE NOTED FOR EARLY PROMOTION[5]
London Gazette 15 SEPTEMBER 1916 re Battle of Jutland
Assistant Paymaster
~Clarence TEASDALE-BUCKELL [Acting Paymaster] Recommended for good service in action
~Assistant Paymaster (Acting Paymaster) Clarence Teasdale-Buekell [sic] to be Paymaster
TEASDALE-BUCKELL vertical lift machine
C. Teasdale-Buckell, RN, HMS Ariadne[4], Portsmouth and 265 The Strand, London, WC
flyingmachines.ru/Site2/Crafts/Craft29715.htm
An article written by Clarence about his machine for “Flight” – the official organ of the Royal Aero Club of the United Kingdom – September 17, 1910:
www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1910/1910%20-%200765...
A letter to the same publication relating to undulating flight:
www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1910/1910%20-%200897...
**
1901 Census
Alice Maud[8] M BOWLIN:
Residence: 35 Hope Street, Chatham, Kent, England.
Estimated birth year c1894
Born: Chatham, Kent, England
Father: James [aged 40] Bricklayers labourer, born Chatham, Kent
Mother: Isabella [aged 30] BOWLIN born Maidstone, Kent
Siblings: Edward J. aged 9
Emily M. E. aged 2
1911 Census
Alice BOWLIN aged 18
Residence: No. 5 Upper Mount New Rd, Chatham, Kent, England. Their house had 4 rooms.
Marital status: Single
Occupation: Tailoress
Also at same residence:
James BOWLIN, farther [sic] aged 52, General Labourer, born Gillingham, Kent
Iserbell [sic] BOWLIN, wife, 44, years married – 20; Total children born alive 5, children still living 3, children who have died 2. Her occupation was written as House Cleaning but has been crossed out by enumerator. Born Maidstone, Kent.
Emily BOWLIN, aged 13, single, born Chatham, Kent
Benjamin HOBBS, Lodger, aged 36, single, born Old Brompton, Kent, General Labourer at Axe Brand Clothing factory
Other TEASDALE-BUCKELL possible connections on Ancestry.com and freebmd.org.uk:
•Alice Irene birth registered last quarter 1893, Edmonton district, Middlesex, England [and her death below]
•Alice I. died aged 24 death registered last quarter 1918 Lambeth district, England.
•Montague Christopher birth registered 3rd quarter 1896 Kensington district, London, England. Parents: George Teasdale TEASDALE-BUCKELL [an artist] & Lucy Ann TEASDALE-BUCKELL. Born 23 May 1896, Baptised at St Peter, Cranley Gardens, Kensington, London 28 Aug 1896 residence 10 Linden Gardens[?]. Montague is mentioned in the London Gazette page 2638 1 March 1918. Also on 27 February 1923 London Gazette page 1408 “The seniority of the undermentioned Lieuts. Has been adjusted to the dates now stated: Montague C. Teasdale-Buckell.15th Aug. 1917”[6]. Mentioned in London Gazette 18 July 1916 page 7096 – “The undermentioned Act. Sub-Lieuts. Tbe Sub-Lieuts Montague C Teasdale-Buckell”.[7] “Loaned to the Royal Navy” 1924 [9]
•George Edward Teasdale TEASDALE-BUCKELL, baptised 22 February 1886, St James the Great, Friern Barnet, Middlesex, England 22 February 1886 parents as for Montague but father listed now as a Gentleman. George’s death registered Barnet district, Sep 1888 aged 2
•Lucy Teasdale TEASDALE-BUCKELL born 11 Jun 1880 baptised St Mary Magdalene, Paddington, Westminster, London, England 19 Sept 1880. Residence South Ormsby Hall, West Alford, Lincolnshire, England. Parents as for Montague, father listed as Gentleman.
•Lucy A TEASDALE-BUCKELL [mother of the 3 above] death registered in Lambeth, London December 1931 aged 74.
•George T TEASDALE-BUCKELL [father of the 3 above] death registered June 1919, London district
•Minnie E. married to COUSINS, registered first quarter Portsmouth district, England.
•Phyllis M TEASDALE-BUCKELL death registered Chelsea district, December 1933 aged 11.
•Author George Teasdale TEASDALE-BUCKELL “The Complete English Wing Shot” first published 1907 archive.org/details/completeshot00buckgoog He appears to have been big in the retriever dog world also.
•
REFERENCES:
[1]
Ancestry.com: England & Wales, FREEBMD Birth Index, 1837-1915
[2]
Ancestry.com: London, England, Electoral Registers, 1847-1965
[3]
Ancestry.com: England & Wales Marriage index 1916-2005
[4]
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/HMS_Ariadne
[5]
www.naval-history.net/WW1NavyBritishLGDecorations1916Jutl...
[6]
docs.google.com/viewer?a=v&q=cache:WulmIrORA4wJ:www.l...
[7]
www.london-gazette.co.uk/issues/29671/pages/7096/page.pdf
[8]
Ancestry.com: England & Wals, FreeBMD Birth index, 1837-1915
[9]
Clarence TEASDALE-BUCKELL
For photo see
In loving memory of
C. TEASDALE-BUCKELL
Commander Royal Navy
15 October 1884 – 18 April 1963
He lived for others
Birth registered in Stafford District, Staffordshire last quarter 1883[1]
Marriage: last quarter 1917 to Alice M.M. BOWLIN**, Medway [Kent] district Volume 2a Page 1673[3] I cannot find her death on ancestry.com and she is not buried with Clarence.
Residence: 1922 Barnet, Hendon electorate - 16 Temple Gardens[2]
Death registration 1963/24068
Burial 20 April 1963
Protestant Lawn C Row 4 Plot 80
Funeral Director: Battersby Funeral Services
OFFICERS RECOMMENDED TO BE NOTED FOR EARLY PROMOTION[5]
London Gazette 15 SEPTEMBER 1916 re Battle of Jutland
Assistant Paymaster
~Clarence TEASDALE-BUCKELL [Acting Paymaster] Recommended for good service in action
~Assistant Paymaster (Acting Paymaster) Clarence Teasdale-Buekell [sic] to be Paymaster
TEASDALE-BUCKELL vertical lift machine
C. Teasdale-Buckell, RN, HMS Ariadne[4], Portsmouth and 265 The Strand, London, WC
flyingmachines.ru/Site2/Crafts/Craft29715.htm
An article written by Clarence about his machine for “Flight” – the official organ of the Royal Aero Club of the United Kingdom – September 17, 1910:
www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1910/1910%20-%200765...
A letter to the same publication relating to undulating flight:
www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1910/1910%20-%200897...
**
1901 Census
Alice Maud[8] M BOWLIN:
Residence: 35 Hope Street, Chatham, Kent, England.
Estimated birth year c1894
Born: Chatham, Kent, England
Father: James [aged 40] Bricklayers labourer, born Chatham, Kent
Mother: Isabella [aged 30] BOWLIN born Maidstone, Kent
Siblings: Edward J. aged 9
Emily M. E. aged 2
1911 Census
Alice BOWLIN aged 18
Residence: No. 5 Upper Mount New Rd, Chatham, Kent, England. Their house had 4 rooms.
Marital status: Single
Occupation: Tailoress
Also at same residence:
James BOWLIN, farther [sic] aged 52, General Labourer, born Gillingham, Kent
Iserbell [sic] BOWLIN, wife, 44, years married – 20; Total children born alive 5, children still living 3, children who have died 2. Her occupation was written as House Cleaning but has been crossed out by enumerator. Born Maidstone, Kent.
Emily BOWLIN, aged 13, single, born Chatham, Kent
Benjamin HOBBS, Lodger, aged 36, single, born Old Brompton, Kent, General Labourer at Axe Brand Clothing factory
Other TEASDALE-BUCKELL possible connections on Ancestry.com and freebmd.org.uk:
•Alice Irene birth registered last quarter 1893, Edmonton district, Middlesex, England [and her death below]
•Alice I. died aged 24 death registered last quarter 1918 Lambeth district, England.
•Montague Christopher birth registered 3rd quarter 1896 Kensington district, London, England. Parents: George Teasdale TEASDALE-BUCKELL [an artist] & Lucy Ann TEASDALE-BUCKELL. Born 23 May 1896, Baptised at St Peter, Cranley Gardens, Kensington, London 28 Aug 1896 residence 10 Linden Gardens[?]. Montague is mentioned in the London Gazette page 2638 1 March 1918. Also on 27 February 1923 London Gazette page 1408 “The seniority of the undermentioned Lieuts. Has been adjusted to the dates now stated: Montague C. Teasdale-Buckell.15th Aug. 1917”[6]. Mentioned in London Gazette 18 July 1916 page 7096 – “The undermentioned Act. Sub-Lieuts. Tbe Sub-Lieuts Montague C Teasdale-Buckell”.[7] “Loaned to the Royal Navy” 1924 [9]
•George Edward Teasdale TEASDALE-BUCKELL, baptised 22 February 1886, St James the Great, Friern Barnet, Middlesex, England 22 February 1886 parents as for Montague but father listed now as a Gentleman. George’s death registered Barnet district, Sep 1888 aged 2
•Lucy Teasdale TEASDALE-BUCKELL born 11 Jun 1880 baptised St Mary Magdalene, Paddington, Westminster, London, England 19 Sept 1880. Residence South Ormsby Hall, West Alford, Lincolnshire, England. Parents as for Montague, father listed as Gentleman.
•Lucy A TEASDALE-BUCKELL [mother of the 3 above] death registered in Lambeth, London December 1931 aged 74.
•George T TEASDALE-BUCKELL [father of the 3 above] death registered June 1919, London district
•Minnie E. married to COUSINS, registered first quarter Portsmouth district, England.
•Phyllis M TEASDALE-BUCKELL death registered Chelsea district, December 1933 aged 11.
•Author George Teasdale TEASDALE-BUCKELL “The Complete English Wing Shot” first published 1907 archive.org/details/completeshot00buckgoog He appears to have been big in the retriever dog world also.
•
REFERENCES:
[1]
Ancestry.com: England & Wales, FREEBMD Birth Index, 1837-1915
[2]
Ancestry.com: London, England, Electoral Registers, 1847-1965
[3]
Ancestry.com: England & Wales Marriage index 1916-2005
[4]
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/HMS_Ariadne
[5]
www.naval-history.net/WW1NavyBritishLGDecorations1916Jutl...
[6]
docs.google.com/viewer?a=v&q=cache:WulmIrORA4wJ:www.l...
[7]
www.london-gazette.co.uk/issues/29671/pages/7096/page.pdf
[8]
Ancestry.com: England & Wals, FreeBMD Birth index, 1837-1915
[9]
Built 1928 for Peeks Ltd, tailors, with rooms for doctors & dentists on upper floors, architect F Kenneth Milne, named Lister House for Joseph Lister, pioneer of antiseptic surgery. Building purchased by Commonwealth Oil Refineries Ltd 1946, renamed Tobin House 2002 and now used as UniSA student accommodation. Peeks Ltd began as Peeks Bros in 1916; their premises moved from Grenfell St to Pulteney St before erecting this building in North Terrace.
“Tenders are Invited by the undersigned for the Supply and Erection of an Up-to-date Passenger Elevator, to be installed in Lister House, North terrace, for Messrs. Peeks, Limited.” [Register 16 Oct 1928 advert]
“Lister House which is being erected . . . under the supervision of Milne, Evans, & Russell, architects, is almost ready for occupation. . . The steel window frames in Lister House have been made locally by Perry's, Ltd., to the architects' design. Instantaneous electric, hot water heaters are provided in all offices. . . The building has been especially designed for the use of doctors and dentists. Two rooms on the first floor; with ceilings wholly of prismatic glass, and' extensive side windows, will make excellent operating rooms. . . External detail is perpendicular, Gothic, finished in white cement, and the plasterers have displayed much skill, in running the long unbroken vertical lines which are a feature o£ the design.” [Register News-Pictorial 16 May 1929]
“South Australian material and labor were used wherever possible in the construction .of Lister House, the seven-story building recently completed for Peeks Limited. . . There is a telephone connection in every room, and hot and cold water are laid on to every suite. . . Lister House is the first building in Adelaide -to be fitted with a Kernerator. This installation received favorable comment from officers of the Central Board of Health. On each floor a panel in the wall, can be opened and surgical dressings and rubbish of all descriptions placed in a small bin. When the panel is closed the contents of the bin fall into a furnace, where immediate destruction is effected. . . On each floor there is a slot for the reception of letters, which are gathered thrice daily by postal officials. . . Peeks Limited and Peeks Investments Limited will use the ground floor and half of the first floor. A fast electric lift is installed.” [News 12 Jul 1929]
“Peeks, Ltd. Tailors, Costumiers, Mantle Specialists. Late of 22 Pulteney Street. Now at Lister House Opp. Public Library, North Terrace, Adelaide.” [News 18 Jul 1929 advert]
“M. S. Joyner, B.D.S. (Adel.), Dental Surgeon wishes to announce his Removal to Lister House.” [Register News-Pictorial 21 Aug 1929 advert]
“Dressmaking — Fully experienced hand. Used to first-class work. — Room 210, Lister House,” [Advertiser 3 May 1930 advert]
“L. J. Churches, Character Analyst and Vocational Adviser, wishes to inform the public of Adelaide and district that he is opening a branch of the Vocational Guidance Institute at Lister House.” [Advertiser 22 May 1930 advert]
“Commonwealth Oil Refineries, Ltd, has purchased Lister House, Peek's, Ltd. property in North terrace. . . Price is understood to be in the vicinity of £40.000.” [Advertiser 23 Oct 1946]
“Orders granting possession of rooms occupied by two tenants of Lister House, North terrace, to the Commonwealth Oil Refineries Ltd., were made by Mr. W. V. Ray, S.M., today. He refused to make orders in actions against six other tenants. The company, which purchased the building in January, claimed possession of two and a half floors of the building. . . the magistrate said he was satisfied the company would suffer no financial hardship whatever, and had shown no hardship worth considering if the orders were refused. Regarding the rooms occupied by professional men, he said: ’Notwithstanding that North terrace is being gradually invaded by commercial houses, I think it can still be said that North terrace is the Harley street of Adelaide. It would be a serious loss of prestige and status to remove their surgeries to other parts of the city’.” [News 20 Jun 1947]
PEEK BROTHERS, TAILORS
“Tailoress, Coat and Costume Hand; also Trousers and Vest Hands.— Peek Bros., 102, Grenfell-st.” [Advertiser 26 May 1916 advert]
“Peek Bros. (Queen's Hall Buildings), 102, Grenfell-street, Adelaide. Suits Tailored by our own specialists, from £4 4/-. Costumes. Yes, handled under direct supervision, on our premises. From £5 5/-. . . Ladies' Ready-made Costumes, Raincoats, Underwear, Dress Material, Drapery. Gents’ Ready-made Suits, Overcoats, Underwear, and Juvenile Clothing.” [Advertiser 21 Jul 1916 advert]
“Mr. J. Henley Peek, chairman of the tailoring business of Peeks Ltd., died suddenly at his Seacliff home yesterday, aged 64. He was one of the founders about 1916 of Peek Bros., which later was formed into Peeks Ltd. The company built Lister House, North terrace, Adelaide. Mr. Peek was formerly chairman of the Order Tailors' Association. In 1925-26 he was president of the SA Baptist Union. Mr. Peek is survived by a widow and two daughters, Mrs. C. H. Pearson, of Gawler, and Mrs. R. H. Taylor, of Seacliff.” [Advertiser 18 Sep 1951]
Built 1928 for Peeks Ltd, tailors, with rooms for doctors & dentists on upper floors, architect F Kenneth Milne, named Lister House for Joseph Lister, pioneer of antiseptic surgery. Building purchased by Commonwealth Oil Refineries Ltd 1946, renamed Tobin House 2002 and now used as UniSA student accommodation. Peeks Ltd began as Peeks Bros in 1916; their premises moved from Grenfell St to Pulteney St before erecting this building in North Terrace.
“Tenders are Invited by the undersigned for the Supply and Erection of an Up-to-date Passenger Elevator, to be installed in Lister House, North terrace, for Messrs. Peeks, Limited.” [Register 16 Oct 1928 advert]
“Lister House which is being erected . . . under the supervision of Milne, Evans, & Russell, architects, is almost ready for occupation. . . The steel window frames in Lister House have been made locally by Perry's, Ltd., to the architects' design. Instantaneous electric, hot water heaters are provided in all offices. . . The building has been especially designed for the use of doctors and dentists. Two rooms on the first floor; with ceilings wholly of prismatic glass, and' extensive side windows, will make excellent operating rooms. . . External detail is perpendicular, Gothic, finished in white cement, and the plasterers have displayed much skill, in running the long unbroken vertical lines which are a feature o£ the design.” [Register News-Pictorial 16 May 1929]
“South Australian material and labor were used wherever possible in the construction .of Lister House, the seven-story building recently completed for Peeks Limited. . . There is a telephone connection in every room, and hot and cold water are laid on to every suite. . . Lister House is the first building in Adelaide -to be fitted with a Kernerator. This installation received favorable comment from officers of the Central Board of Health. On each floor a panel in the wall, can be opened and surgical dressings and rubbish of all descriptions placed in a small bin. When the panel is closed the contents of the bin fall into a furnace, where immediate destruction is effected. . . On each floor there is a slot for the reception of letters, which are gathered thrice daily by postal officials. . . Peeks Limited and Peeks Investments Limited will use the ground floor and half of the first floor. A fast electric lift is installed.” [News 12 Jul 1929]
“Peeks, Ltd. Tailors, Costumiers, Mantle Specialists. Late of 22 Pulteney Street. Now at Lister House Opp. Public Library, North Terrace, Adelaide.” [News 18 Jul 1929 advert]
“M. S. Joyner, B.D.S. (Adel.), Dental Surgeon wishes to announce his Removal to Lister House.” [Register News-Pictorial 21 Aug 1929 advert]
“Dressmaking — Fully experienced hand. Used to first-class work. — Room 210, Lister House,” [Advertiser 3 May 1930 advert]
“L. J. Churches, Character Analyst and Vocational Adviser, wishes to inform the public of Adelaide and district that he is opening a branch of the Vocational Guidance Institute at Lister House.” [Advertiser 22 May 1930 advert]
“Commonwealth Oil Refineries, Ltd, has purchased Lister House, Peek's, Ltd. property in North terrace. . . Price is understood to be in the vicinity of £40.000.” [Advertiser 23 Oct 1946]
“Orders granting possession of rooms occupied by two tenants of Lister House, North terrace, to the Commonwealth Oil Refineries Ltd., were made by Mr. W. V. Ray, S.M., today. He refused to make orders in actions against six other tenants. The company, which purchased the building in January, claimed possession of two and a half floors of the building. . . the magistrate said he was satisfied the company would suffer no financial hardship whatever, and had shown no hardship worth considering if the orders were refused. Regarding the rooms occupied by professional men, he said: ’Notwithstanding that North terrace is being gradually invaded by commercial houses, I think it can still be said that North terrace is the Harley street of Adelaide. It would be a serious loss of prestige and status to remove their surgeries to other parts of the city’.” [News 20 Jun 1947]
PEEK BROTHERS, TAILORS
“Tailoress, Coat and Costume Hand; also Trousers and Vest Hands.— Peek Bros., 102, Grenfell-st.” [Advertiser 26 May 1916 advert]
“Peek Bros. (Queen's Hall Buildings), 102, Grenfell-street, Adelaide. Suits Tailored by our own specialists, from £4 4/-. Costumes. Yes, handled under direct supervision, on our premises. From £5 5/-. . . Ladies' Ready-made Costumes, Raincoats, Underwear, Dress Material, Drapery. Gents’ Ready-made Suits, Overcoats, Underwear, and Juvenile Clothing.” [Advertiser 21 Jul 1916 advert]
“Mr. J. Henley Peek, chairman of the tailoring business of Peeks Ltd., died suddenly at his Seacliff home yesterday, aged 64. He was one of the founders about 1916 of Peek Bros., which later was formed into Peeks Ltd. The company built Lister House, North terrace, Adelaide. Mr. Peek was formerly chairman of the Order Tailors' Association. In 1925-26 he was president of the SA Baptist Union. Mr. Peek is survived by a widow and two daughters, Mrs. C. H. Pearson, of Gawler, and Mrs. R. H. Taylor, of Seacliff.” [Advertiser 18 Sep 1951]
Built 1928 for Peeks Ltd, tailors, with rooms for doctors & dentists on upper floors, architect F Kenneth Milne, named Lister House for Joseph Lister, pioneer of antiseptic surgery. Building purchased by Commonwealth Oil Refineries Ltd 1946, renamed Tobin House 2002 and now used as UniSA student accommodation. Peeks Ltd began as Peeks Bros in 1916; their premises moved from Grenfell St to Pulteney St before erecting this building in North Terrace.
“Tenders are Invited by the undersigned for the Supply and Erection of an Up-to-date Passenger Elevator, to be installed in Lister House, North terrace, for Messrs. Peeks, Limited.” [Register 16 Oct 1928 advert]
“Lister House which is being erected . . . under the supervision of Milne, Evans, & Russell, architects, is almost ready for occupation. . . The steel window frames in Lister House have been made locally by Perry's, Ltd., to the architects' design. Instantaneous electric, hot water heaters are provided in all offices. . . The building has been especially designed for the use of doctors and dentists. Two rooms on the first floor; with ceilings wholly of prismatic glass, and' extensive side windows, will make excellent operating rooms. . . External detail is perpendicular, Gothic, finished in white cement, and the plasterers have displayed much skill, in running the long unbroken vertical lines which are a feature o£ the design.” [Register News-Pictorial 16 May 1929]
“South Australian material and labor were used wherever possible in the construction .of Lister House, the seven-story building recently completed for Peeks Limited. . . There is a telephone connection in every room, and hot and cold water are laid on to every suite. . . Lister House is the first building in Adelaide -to be fitted with a Kernerator. This installation received favorable comment from officers of the Central Board of Health. On each floor a panel in the wall, can be opened and surgical dressings and rubbish of all descriptions placed in a small bin. When the panel is closed the contents of the bin fall into a furnace, where immediate destruction is effected. . . On each floor there is a slot for the reception of letters, which are gathered thrice daily by postal officials. . . Peeks Limited and Peeks Investments Limited will use the ground floor and half of the first floor. A fast electric lift is installed.” [News 12 Jul 1929]
“Peeks, Ltd. Tailors, Costumiers, Mantle Specialists. Late of 22 Pulteney Street. Now at Lister House Opp. Public Library, North Terrace, Adelaide.” [News 18 Jul 1929 advert]
“M. S. Joyner, B.D.S. (Adel.), Dental Surgeon wishes to announce his Removal to Lister House.” [Register News-Pictorial 21 Aug 1929 advert]
“Dressmaking — Fully experienced hand. Used to first-class work. — Room 210, Lister House,” [Advertiser 3 May 1930 advert]
“L. J. Churches, Character Analyst and Vocational Adviser, wishes to inform the public of Adelaide and district that he is opening a branch of the Vocational Guidance Institute at Lister House.” [Advertiser 22 May 1930 advert]
“Commonwealth Oil Refineries, Ltd, has purchased Lister House, Peek's, Ltd. property in North terrace. . . Price is understood to be in the vicinity of £40.000.” [Advertiser 23 Oct 1946]
“Orders granting possession of rooms occupied by two tenants of Lister House, North terrace, to the Commonwealth Oil Refineries Ltd., were made by Mr. W. V. Ray, S.M., today. He refused to make orders in actions against six other tenants. The company, which purchased the building in January, claimed possession of two and a half floors of the building. . . the magistrate said he was satisfied the company would suffer no financial hardship whatever, and had shown no hardship worth considering if the orders were refused. Regarding the rooms occupied by professional men, he said: ’Notwithstanding that North terrace is being gradually invaded by commercial houses, I think it can still be said that North terrace is the Harley street of Adelaide. It would be a serious loss of prestige and status to remove their surgeries to other parts of the city’.” [News 20 Jun 1947]
PEEK BROTHERS, TAILORS
“Tailoress, Coat and Costume Hand; also Trousers and Vest Hands.— Peek Bros., 102, Grenfell-st.” [Advertiser 26 May 1916 advert]
“Peek Bros. (Queen's Hall Buildings), 102, Grenfell-street, Adelaide. Suits Tailored by our own specialists, from £4 4/-. Costumes. Yes, handled under direct supervision, on our premises. From £5 5/-. . . Ladies' Ready-made Costumes, Raincoats, Underwear, Dress Material, Drapery. Gents’ Ready-made Suits, Overcoats, Underwear, and Juvenile Clothing.” [Advertiser 21 Jul 1916 advert]
“Mr. J. Henley Peek, chairman of the tailoring business of Peeks Ltd., died suddenly at his Seacliff home yesterday, aged 64. He was one of the founders about 1916 of Peek Bros., which later was formed into Peeks Ltd. The company built Lister House, North terrace, Adelaide. Mr. Peek was formerly chairman of the Order Tailors' Association. In 1925-26 he was president of the SA Baptist Union. Mr. Peek is survived by a widow and two daughters, Mrs. C. H. Pearson, of Gawler, and Mrs. R. H. Taylor, of Seacliff.” [Advertiser 18 Sep 1951]
DUCKER, H T
Rank:……………….......Lance Corporal
Service No:…………..2755
Date of Death:………03/12/1918
Regiment:………….....Northamptonshire Regiment
……………………...........Depot Bn
Grave Reference:….I. 187.
Cemetery:………….....NORWICH CEMETERY, NORFOLK
CWGC: www.cwgc.org/find-war-dead/casualty/2803116/DUCKER,%20H%20T
SDGW records that Lance Corporal 27558 Herbert John Ducker Died on the 3rd December 1918 whilst serving on the Western European Front with the 6th Battalion, Northamptonshire Regiment. He was born Burnham Market, Norfolk and enlisted Norwich. No place of residence is recorded.
The Medal Index Card for Private 27558 Herbert J Ducker, Northamptonshire Regiment is held at the National Archive under reference WO 372/6/100504
discovery.nationalarchives.gov.uk/details/r/D2691576
The MIC has no date for his first entry into a Theatre of War, so its almost certain he went out after the start of January 1916, (a date before then would have entitled him to the 1914/15 Star.)
The Service Medal and Award Roll for the Northampton Regiment records that Lance Corporal 27558 Herbert John Ducker saw all his active service with the 6th Battalion, Northampton Regiment. He is recorded as Died on the 3rd December 1918.
The Government Probate Service holds a Soldiers Will for 27558 Herbert John Ducker who died on the 3rd December 1918.
probatesearch.service.gov.uk/Wills?Surname=Ducker&Sur...
The Army Register of Soldiers Effects records that Lance Corporal 27558 Herbert John Ducker of the 6th Battalion, Northants Regiment died on the 3rd December 1918 at the War Hospital, Norwich. His next of kin was his widow Flora.
Birth and Baptism
The birth of a Herbert John Ducker was recorded in the January to March quarter of 1883 in the Docking District of Norfolk.
The Baptism of a Herbert John John Ducker took place at St Edmund, Swanton Novers on the 15th September 1895. It was noted by the priest officiating that Herbert was 12 years old. His parents were Gregory, a Coachman, and Emily. The family lived at “Barnham Sutton.”
freereg2.freereg.org.uk/search_records/5510862de937907206...
Other children of this couple baptised on the same day were Florence May, (aged 4), Ernest Henry, (aged 7), Bertie, (aged 9),
Florence May: freereg2.freereg.org.uk/search_records/5510862de937907206...
Ernest Henry:
freereg2.freereg.org.uk/search_records/5510862de937907206...
Bertie:
freereg2.freereg.org.uk/search_records/5689f71ef493fdca3d...
Other family baptisms
The baptism of an Arthur James Ducker was recorded at All Saints, Burnham Ulph on the 8th May 1881. His parents were Gregory, a Groom, and Emily. The family lived at Burnham Sutton.
freereg2.freereg.org.uk/search_records/56f360fcf493fdfde3...
The baptism of a George Ducker was recorded at All Saints, Burnham Ulph on the 26th May 1878. His parents were Gregory, a Groom, and Emily. The family lived at Burnham Sutton.
freereg2.freereg.org.uk/search_records/56f360f6f493fdfde3...
The baptism of a William Ducker was recorded at All Saints, Burnham Ulph on the 20th March 1876. His parents were Gregory, a Groom, and Emily.
freereg2.freereg.org.uk/search_records/5510ee73e93790332e...
The baptism of a Charles Edward Ducker was recorded at All Saints, Burnham Ulph on the 30th May 1890. He had been born on the 8th May 1889. His parents were Gregory, a Groom, and Emily. The family lived at Burnham Sutton.
freereg2.freereg.org.uk/search_records/56f3610bf493fdfde3...
His death would be registered in the April to June quarter of 1890 in the Docking District of Norfolk.
He would be buried at All Saints, Burnham Ulph on the 6th June 1890.
freereg2.freereg.org.uk/search_records/56f35cd2f493fdfde3...
1891 Census
The family were originally not traceable in 1891, and so I had to find them on the later two censuses first. Armed with the details there I could identify that they had been mis-transcribed as Duker on the genealogy site I use. It will probably be the same problem on all the major subscription genealogy sites as they all tend to use the same sources.
The family were recorded living at a dwelling on Creake Road, Burnham Sutton, Norfolk. Father Gregory, (39, born Swanton) was working as a Domestic Coachman. Mother Emily was aged 38 and from”Hendoldiston”, Norfolk– (?- tbc).
Children living with them are:-
William……..aged 15……..born Burnham….Domestic Gardener
George………aged 13……..born Burnham
Arthur……….aged 10……..born Burnham
Herbert J…….aged 8………born Burnham
Bertie………..aged 5………born Burnham
Ernest H……..aged 3………born Burnham
The most likely match for his future wife was a 4 year old Flora Snell, born Ipswich, who was recorded living with her parents William and Laura at 20 James Street, Ipswich. Flora had 4 sisters on this census.
1901 Census
The 18 year old Herbert J Ducker, a Mail Driver from Burnham Market, Norfolk, was recorded at a dwelling at Bridge Street, St Margaret, Kings Lynn. This was the household of his parents, Gregory, (aged 47 and a Coachman from Swanton Novers, Norfolk) and Emily, (aged 47 and from Foulsham, Norfolk). As well as Herbert, their other children are:-
Arthur J……..aged 20……..born Burnham Market….Coachman
Bertie……….aged 15……..born Burnham Market…Hairdressers Apprentice
Ernest H…….aged 13……..born Burnham Market
Florence M….aged 9………born Burnham Market
The most likely match for his future wife was the 14 year old Flora Snell, born Ipswich and now working as a Tailoress, (her father was a Tailor and another older sister was a Tailoress and they all worked from home, so possibly a family business). The family still lived at James Street, Ipswich, and while the house number isn’t identified, I suspect it’s the same building as where they were living in 1891. Flora now has 6 siblings living with her.
1911 Census
The family have now moved to 85 Portland Street, Norwich. Father G, (aged 59 and a Coachman) and mother E, (aged 59), have been married 35 years and have had 8 children, of which 7 were then still alive. Still single and living at home are:-
Herbert John…aged 28….Insurance Agent
Ernest Henry…aged 24….Groom
Florence May...aged 20….Music Teacher
His future wife, Flora Snell, and her family had by now moved up to Norwich and were living at 9 Newmarket Street, Norwich – a few minutes walk away from where Herbert was living. Parents William and Laura have been married 29 years and have had 8 children, all then still alive. Flora, 24, continues to work as a Tailoress.
1912 Marriage
The marriage of Herbert J Ducker to Flora G Snell was recorded in the Norwich District in the April to June quarter of 1912.
Post-August 1911 it had become compulsory when registering a birth in England and Wales to also record the mothers maiden name. A check of the General Registrars Office index of births for England and Wales produces three possible children for this couple – all registered in the Norwich District and all with mothers maiden name Snell. There was twins Herbert L and Ronald W recorded in the Norwich District in the October to December quarter of 1912, and then Ashton M, whose birth was recorded in the April to June quarter of 1917.
In the early 1920’s there are births recorded with this combination of surname\mothers maiden name in the Dorset area, but I suspect its another couple.
On the day
The 36 year old Herbert J Ducker was recorded in the Blofield District of Norfolk in the October to December quarter of 1918. The War Hospital at Thorpe St Andrew, (the former County Asylum), came within this Civil registration district.
1452304 Aircraftman 2nd Cl.
V.E.ALLMAN
Royal Air Force
15th September 1941 Age 41
Until the day break
And the shadows flee away
ALLMAN, VICTOR EDWARD
Rank:……………………………..Aircraftman 2nd Class
Service No:…………………….1452304
Date of Death:……………….15/09/1941
Age:………………………………..41
Service:…………………………..Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve
Grave Reference:……………Sec. 54. Grave 522.
Cemetery:……………………….NORWICH CEMETERY, NORFOLK
Additional Information:
Son of Robert and Emily Allman, of Norwich; husband of Bessie Elizabeth Allman, of Norwich.
CWGC: www.cwgc.org/find-war-dead/casualty/2764123/ALLMAN,%20VIC...
January to March quarter 1901
The nearest to a match for the birth of this Airman in England and Wales was the one registered for an Edward Victor Allman in the Norwich District in Q1 of 1901. That doesn’t quite tie up with him being 41 by the time he died.
1901 Census
The birth registered earlier in the year seems to be corroborated by the census taken at the start of April, where an Edward Allman is recorded as three months old. He was living at 48 West Pottergate Street, Norwich which was the household of his parents, Robert, (aged 40 and a Shoemaker and Shopkeeper from Norwich), and Emily, (aged 30 and from Brightlingsea, Essex). Given Emily’s age I’m assuming Robert has been widowed and re-married, as his eldest son Arthur is aged 15 and a Grocers Assistant from Colchester, Essex. As well as Edward and Arthur, the other children in the household are:-
George…………aged 12………born Colchester
Lily……………….aged 9…………born Colchester
May……………..aged 5………..born Brightlingsea
Victor would go on to marry a Bessie Elizabeth Pask when he grew up, but there is no trace of a birth recorded in England and Wales for anyone with that name, or on the relevant censuses. Of course she could have been born elsewhere and then came to England later in her life. One intriguing possibility though is that a Bessie E Blazey married an Alfred H Pask in the Norwich District in the July to September quarter, (Q3), of 1921. If Alfred had died then there would have been a widow Bessie E Pask possibly living in the Norwich area. There are two potential Norwich candidates, an Alfred H who died aged 52 in the April to June quarter of 1929, and an Alfred Harry born 1906 who did not die until 1997. Unless we are talking divorce, (unlikely and very costly at that time), I decided to concentrate on the first alternative. The 1929 Probate calendar has an entry for an Alfred Harry Pask of 1 Henderson Road, Norwich, who died on the 9th April 1929. Administration of his estate was granted at the Norwich court on the 7th May to his widow, Bessie Elizabeth Pask.
Source: probatesearch.service.gov.uk/Calendar?surname=Pask&ye...
Alfred and Bessie probably had a daughter – the birth of a Thelma J Pask, mothers maiden name Blazey, was recorded in the Norwich District in the April to June quarter, (Q2), of 1922.
The birth of a Bessie Elizabeth Blazey was recorded in the Forehoe District of Norfolk in the January to March quarter, (Q1), of 1896.
The 5 year old Bessie, born Wymondham, was recorded at a dwelling on Poplar Street, Wymondham on the 1901 census. (Wymondham is in the District of Forehoe). This was the household of her parents John and Annie plus 5 siblings.
1902-03 Electoral Register for Norwich
Robert Allman was entitled to vote as the head of a household. The Electoral Register valid for the period 1902-03 records that he had moved from 48 West Pottergate Street, first to 12 Douro’s Yard, West Pottergate Street and was now resident at 15 Home Street.
Source: familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:2C9K-9HT
1903-04 Electoral Register for Norwich
Robert Allman was the householder at 15 Home Street
Source 1903-04: familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:2C9K-1VD
1904-05, 1905-06, 1906-07, 1907-08, 1908-09, 1909-10 and 1910-11 Electoral Registers for Norwich
The family had moved to 6 Home Street from 15 Home Street by the time the 1904-05 Register was compiled.
1904-05 Source: familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:2C92-1HG
1905-06 Source: familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:2C9L-BD5
1906-07 Source: familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:2C9P-MMP
1907-08 Source: familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:2C95-RVD
1908-09 Source: familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:2C9R-1Z7
1909-10 Source: familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:2C9Y-MZZ
1910-11 Source: familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:2C9B-9P5
1911 Census
The 10 year old Victor Allman is now recorded living with his family at 6 Home Street, Norwich. Father Robert, (57 and Bootmaker) and mother Emily, (37) have been married 10 years but state they have had 15 children of which 10 were then still alive. All ten were originally listed, but one, George, (aged 22 and a Hotel Porter from Colchester), was presumably counted elsewhere on the night of the census and his line has been struck through. The remaining children at home are:-
Arthur……….aged 25……..born Colchester…..Domestic Chauffeur
Lily…………….aged 17……..born Colchester…..General Domestic
May…………..aged 14……..born Brightlingsea
Frank…………aged 8……….born Norwich
William……..aged 5……….born Norwich
Voilet………..aged 4……….born Norwich
Edward……..aged 2……….born Norwich
Albert……….aged 10 months….born Norwich
Brother George William Allman was actually recorded on duty at the Maid’s Head, Wensum Street, Norwich.
The possible candidate for Victor’s future wife, then known as Bessie Blazey, had moved with her widowed mother Annie to 13 Denbigh Road, Park Lane, Norwich. Then aged 15, she was employed as a Tailoress.
1911-12, 1912-13 Electoral Registers for Norwich
Robert Allman was still recorded as the householder at 6 Home Street.
1911-12 Source: familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:2C91-W3S
1912-13 Source: familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:2CSM-4T3
1914-15 Electoral Register for Norwich
The family were now at 81 Russell Street.
1914-15 Source: familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:2CS9-VMD
July to September 1931
The marriage of a Victor E Allman to a Bessie E Pask was recorded in the Norwich District in this quarter.
Source: familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:QV8Q-XXGH
There does not appear to be any instances the General Registrars Office for Index of births for England and Wales of a child being registered with the surname Allman, mothers maiden name Pask.
However, see my musings earlier in which I speculate that Bessie might have been a widow who remarried. If that is correct then her maiden name would have been Blazey. Checking for that combination produces just one match in England and Wales – a Rosemary D Allman, mothers maiden name Blazey, whose birth was recorded in the January to March quarter, (Q1), of 1939 in the Norwich District.
On the day
The death of a 41 year old Victor Allman was recorded in the North Kesteven District of Lincolnshire in the July to September quarter of 1941. This area was full of RAF station’s – one website dedicated to the activities of the RAF in Lincolnshire even calls itself “Bomber County”.
In the Official Casualty Communique number 97, reprinted in the edition of Flight Magazine dated 18th December 1941 there is an AC2 V E Allman who is recorded as Died on Active Service. That’s more likely to mean either illness or non-service related accident.
Source: www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1941/1941%20-%203048...
It may be a co-incidence, but the death of a Bessie Elizabeth Allman, born 12th September 1895, was recorded in the Norwich District in the April to June quarter of 1983.
85542 Sapper W T Green
Royal Engineers
18th November 1916 Age 27
“Death divides, memory clings”
Name: GREEN, WILLIAM THOMAS
Rank: Sapper
Regiment/Service: Royal Engineers
Unit Text: 208th Field Coy.
Age: 27
Date of Death: 18/11/1916
Service No: 85542
Additional information: Formerly a constable in Norwich Police Force. Son of Louisa Emma Green, of 19, Bishop Bridge Rd., Norwich, and the late Daniel Thomas Green. Norwich Police Force.
Grave/Memorial Reference: 46. 818. Cemetery: NORWICH CEMETERY, Norfolk
www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=2803148
It may be co-incidence but there is also a Percy Thomas Green, former constable of the Norwich Police Force and the 1st Norfolks who is pictured on Norlink.
norlink.norfolk.gov.uk/02_Catalogue/02_013_PictureTitleIn...
Percy’s name does not appear on the CWGC database, so I can only hope he survived the war.
William is on the 1901 Census, aged 11 and living at 19 Bishop Bridge Road, Norwich, the household of his parents, Daniel T, (aged 58, a bootmaker) and Louisa E, (aged 44), along with siblings;
Beatrice A ............ Age 14.......Born Gt Yarmouth.......Clerk in Telephone Office
Frederick A ........... Age 9........Born Norwich
Hilda A ................... Age 6........Born Norwich
Louisa A..................Age 16.......Born Gt Yarmouth......... Tailoress
Loving memory of Edith Maria,
Dearly beloved wife of Henry Sissen,
Who died 27th July 1927, aged 61 years.
And in remembrance of John,
Son of the above.
Killed in action 27th August 1917.
Aged 19 years.
United, Thine for ever, God of Love.
Also of Henry Sissen, husband of the above,
Who died 17th February 1935, aged 83 years.
Name: SISSEN, JOHN
Rank: Private
Regiment: Royal Warwickshire Regiment, 1st/8th Bn.
Date of Death: 27/08/1917
Service No: 29375
Additional information: Son of Mrs. Edith Maria Sissen, of King's Villa, Costessey, Norwich, Norfolk
Memorial Reference: Panel 23 to 28 and 163A.
Memorial: TYNE COT MEMORIAL
www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=3064994
No match on Norlink
The 1901 Census has the 3 year John living at The Street, Costessey. This is the household of his parents, Henry, aged 49 and a Bricklayer from Costessey, and Edith, aged 30 and a Tailoress from Norwich. Their other children are Arthur, aged 6, Henry, aged 15 and a Shoemakers apprentice, Stephen, aged 8, and William, aged under 1.
A history of the 48th Division, of which the 1st/8th Warwicks were part, includes the following battle honours for 1917.
Local operations around St. Julian. 19, 22, 27 Aug 1917
www.ordersofbattle.darkscape.net/site/warpath/divs/48_div...
However, it would appear that the 143rd Brigade, which included the 1st/8ths, were the divisional reserve on this day, as only the 144th and 145th Brigades appear in these records of the action.
forum.irishmilitaryonline.com/showthread.php?t=11535&...
There is some family research on-line in connection with John.
www.martinzuerner.co.uk/descendants-chart.htm
www.youtube.com/watch?v=vNc2INfhqAw
This site has a (small) picture of John.
Bogyoke Aung San market, Yangon (the market formerly known as Scott's, and the city formerly known as Rangoon - how the poetic-sounding certainties of one's youth change).
She's a seamstress or tailoress. They have an area upstairs at the back of the market, which is extremely large. You can see her sewing machine - quite an antique. She's gone all shy because of the camera, and she's covering her face with her long, beautiful hair. A proper Burmese girl, in fact - one must be shy.
Long hair is, or was, the sign of an unmarried girl - married women wear their hair up. Or so it used to be. Dunno about these days. Times are changing. But the delightful shyness and at the same time the curiosity and friendliness are still there.
A poem:
When I was young and had no sense
In far-off Mandalay
I lost my heart to a Burmese girl
As lovely as the day.
Her skin was gold, her hair was jet,
Her teeth were ivory;
I said, "for twenty silver pieces,
Maiden, sleep with me".
She looked at me, so pure, so sad,
The loveliest thing alive,
And in her lisping, virgin voice,
Stood out for twenty-five.
First person to provide the author's name (which will surprise you) gets a prize - a free one-way ticket to Yangon. (Sorry, can't afford a return - you'll have to walk back).