1914-1918
Tom Ashley,*, Lance Corporal, [302184[, 2nd/8th Bn., Manchester Regiment Tom's birth was registered in 1897, 2nd quarter, in Wem [E&W Civil Births] His mother's maiden was given as Pugh. [Shropshire BMD] The 1901 Census records him living at Woodgates in Loppington with his grandparents, David & Esther Pugh; David is a farmer born in Loppington. Tom's cousins, Lilian and Edith are also present. The 1911 Census shows Tom living with his parents, Robert & Emma Ashley, at Gas Works House, High St., Wem; Robert is the Gas Works Manager and was born in Wem, Emma in Loppington. Tom’s siblings: Charles, William and Louise, are also present. Thomas enlisted in the Manchester Regiment and was promoted to lance corporal. The War Office Daily List No. 5360 reported that he was now reported as "died of wounds". The date of his death is given as 14 August 1917, and took place in Toxteth, Metropolitan Borough of Liverpool, Merseyside and the Theatre of War as "Home". He is buried in the Saint Peter & Paul's Church, Whitchurch Road Cemetery [21. 25], Wem. "The remains of L.-Cpl. T. Ashley were interred at the cemetery on Friday (24th August 1917), the remains having been brought from Liverpool the previous evening. The mourners included the father and mother, Pte. Charles Ashley (brother), Mrs. Pugh (grandmother), Mr T. Ashley (Welshpool), Mr F. Ashley (Ellesmere), Mr & Mrs J. Stokes (Manchester), Mr. S. Pugh, and the Misses M & D Clay. The service was conducted by the Rev. J.W. Purser and the Rev. A.N. Scott; and, at the graveside, Mr. J. Ravenscroft read the service of the Rechabite Society." Reported by the Whitchurch Herald, Saturday, 25th August 1917. Tom Ashley's grave is recognised by CWGC as a war grave. William Wycherley Austin, Private, [21420], 6th Bn., Kings Shropshire Light Infantry, William's birth was registered in 1892, 2nd quarter. His mother's maiden is given as Wycherley. [Shropshire BMD] The 1901 Census records William living with his parents, John & Elizabeth Austin, in Barkers Green, Wem. John is a postman and was born in Wem, his wife was born in Yorton. William's sister, May, is also present; both siblings were born in Wem. The 1911 Census shows both William and May living with their aunt, Charlotte Austin, at 20, Chapel St., Wem. Charlotte was born in Wem. Also present is Charlotte's widowed mother, Elizabeth, who was born in Ellesmere; son, James, a general labourer born in Wem. William is working as a grocer’s errand boy. In 1916, William married Sarah Jane Lord at the Mission Church of the Good Shepherd in Wardlebrook, Rochdale, Lancashire. [Lancashire Marriage indexes] Sarah was the daughter of Alfred & Rachel Lord of Norden, Spotland, Lancashire. Her mother Rachel was born in Lee Brockhurst, Shropshire, the daughter of George & Mary Whitny. William, a private in the KSLI, was killed in action on 4 March 1917. He is commemorated on the Thiepval Memorial, [Piers 12A & 12D] Somme, France. [CWGC] His legatee is shown as his widow Sarah Jane Austin. [Soldiers’ effects] His death took place during the German retreat to the Hindenberg Line, a massive defensive position. This took place from 9 February to 15 March 1917. The Germans operated a scorched earth policy and heavily booby trapped the area vacated. Henry Beckett*, Private, [39610], 2nd Garrison Bn., Manchester Regiment; formerly [19103], Border Regiment. Henry Backett’s birth was registered at Wem, in 1878 with his mother’s maiden name listed as Davies. [Shropshire BMD] The 1881 Census records him living in Aston St., Wem with his parents, George & Eliza Beckett, both Wem born, and older brothers James, Ambrose, and George. All the family were born in Wem. His father’s occupation is that of general labourer. The 1891 Census records him now living in Harcourt, Stanton upon Hine Heath, with parents and younger siblings, Mary, Joseph and William. The father’s occupation is now that of agricultural labourer. The 1901 Census records him living at 91, High St., Wem, again with parents and younger siblings, William and Emma, the latter born in Stanton upon Hine. Eliza’s birthplace is now recorded as Prees; the father’s occupation as general labourer. Henry is working as a porter in an ironmonger’s business. On 16th June, 1906, Henry married Bertha Kenyon at St. Matthew’s Church, Bolton. [Lancashire BMD]. The entry from St. Matthew’s Church records describe Henry as a car conductor living at 47, Halliwell Rd., Bolton, Bertha as a waitress, living at 19, Cambridge St., Bolton; her father Thomas Kenyon, a spinner. The 1911 Census shows them living at 43, Wordsworth, Bolton and Henry is now a tramway motor car driver. Enlistment in the Border Regiment took place on 6th January 1915; he was now living at 130, Clarence St. Bolton and working as an insurance collector. His religion is noted as Church of England and he is recorded as 5' 6" tall. On 1st July 1916, he is wounded in action, shot through the thigh, then evacuated by ambulance train and hence to Southampton via Boulogne. He is transferred to the Manchester Regiment on 23rd October 1916, a home posting. This was normal practice for many soldiers who had been wounded. On 23rd January 1917, he is admitted to Windy Knowe Military Hospital, Blundell Sands, Liverpool; 30th January, he dies of Pneumonia. His funeral service was held at St. Peter's Church, Halliwell, Bolton and his grave can be found in the churchyard. Maurice Adam Black, Major, 5th Princess Charlotte of Wales Dragoon Guards, Household Cavalry of the Line & Royal Flying Corp Died: Sunday 11 February 1917 Cemetery: Skopje British Cemetery, Macedonia (former Yugoslav Republic) [Grave or Reference Panel Number: A5] Theatre of War: Killed in action. Howard John Bromley*, Lance Serjeant, [10983] 5th Bn., King's Shropshire Light Infantry Born: son of Henry & Martha Bromley, of Tilley Green, Wem, Shropshire Enlisted: Wem, Shropshire Died: Thursday 3 February 1916, aged 21. Cemetery: Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium [Grave or Reference Panel Number: Panel 47 & 49.] Theatre of War: France & Flanders, killed in action. John Reginald Broomfield*, Private, [16508] 6th Bn., King's Shropshire Light Infantry John R(eginald) Broomfield’s birth was registered in 1883 at Wrenbury, East Cheshire. [Cheshire BMD] The England & Wales Civil Registration Birth Index, 1837-1915 gives the wider registration area of Nantwich and expands the forename to Reginald. Some records give his birthplace as Audlum. The 1891 Census records him living in Hordley, Shropshire with his parents John & Mary Broomfield. His mother Mary was born in Welshampton while his father John was born in Audlem, and worked as an agricultural labourer. The 1911 Census records him as living at 42, Preston Brockhurst, Shrewsbury and working as a cowman. His wife is named as Mabel born in Stone (1886). There are 3 children listed: Mabel, Louis Henry (listed as born in Liverpool but other records suggest Leek, Staffs.) and Alfred Reginald (born in Lacon, Wem). CWGC records John Broomfield's death as on 5th November 1915 and lists his parents John 7#38; Mary Broomfield as living at Lily House, Cruckmore Rd., Prees Green, Whitchurch, Shropshire. He is buried at the Rue-du-Bacquerot No. 1 Military Cemetery, Laventie, Pas de Calais. Richard Herbert Butter*, Private, [55167], 9th Bn., Royal Welsh Fusilers; formerly [3467], Monmouthshire Yeomanry Died: Monday 29 April 1918, aged 25 Cemetery: Perth Cemetery (China Wall), Ypres, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium,[Grave or Reference Panel Number: V.J.I.] Theatre of War: France & Flanders, killed in action. Alfred Cartwright, Corporal, [9747] 1st Bn., King's Shropshire Light Infantry Alfred’s birth was registered at Wem, Shropshire in 1895. [Shropshire BMD] The 1911 Census records him working as a cowman on a farm in Sleap, Myddle, Shropshire operated by William & Margaret Madeley. He died of wounds on 19th December 1915 and is commemorated on the Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium. [Panel 47 and 49] and this identifies him as the son of Mrs Louisa Arrowsmith, of 97, Moreton Corbett, Preston Brockhurst. [CWGC]. Mrs Arrowsmith’s birth was registered at Wem in 1873. [Shropshire BMD] Ernest Cartwright*, Private, [19684], 6th Bn., King's Shropshire Light Infantry Ernest Cartwright’s birth was registered at Wem in 1895. His mother’s maiden name was given as Shenton. [Shropshire BMD] The 1901 Census records him living with his parents, George & Emma Cartwright at Moathouse Farm Cottage, Moreton Corbet. His birthplace is also identified as Moreton Corbet. His father was a farm worker. The 1851 Census shows Emma as being born at Myddle in 1851 (Later censuses say 1854 but this one would seem to carry more weight since it states that she is 8 months old.) and living with her grandfather, James Shenton, a stone mason. The 1871 Census records Emma Shenton working as a servant (dairymaid) at Ditches, George Cartwright is also working as a servant at this farm. Their marriage is recorded at Wem in 1871. [Birth Register] The 1911 Census records Ernest living at Ivy House, Aston, Wem with his father and sister Emma; his occupation is given as ‘working on farm’. He was killed on 16th August 1917 and is commemorated on the Tyne Cot Memorial, [Panel 112 – 113] Zonnebeke, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium. William Clorley*, Sapper, [266678], Corps. of Royal Engineers, Battalion Railways, 263rd R. Coy.. William Clorley’s birth was registered at Wem in 1879, his birthplace was given as Prees and his mother’s maiden name as Taylor. [Shropshire BMD] The 1881 Census records him as living with his parents, Benjamin & Sarah Clorley at 1, Abbey Green, Whixall. Both parents are reported as born in Edstaston, his mother in 1844 and his father in 1837.The latter is described as a small farmer and labourer. The 1891 Census has William still living with his parents but they have moved to Jennings Hall, Whixall. His father is now described as a labourer with his place of birth given as Whixall and his mother’s as Newtown. The 1901 Census records William as a boarder at 66, Peel St., Wolstanton, Longridge Hayes, Staffs. The head of the household is Edward Williams, an ironstone miner. William is working as a plate layer with LNW Railway. His war service was as a Sapper in the 263rd Railway Coy of the Royal Engineers, enlisting in 1916 at the age of 36. He was killed in action on 13th April 1918 and is buried in the La Motte-Brebière Comm Cemetery, Lamotte-Brebiere, Dept. de la Somme, Picardie, France. Samuel Alvery Cotton*, Driver, [T3/028026], Royal Army Service Corps. Samuel’s birth was registered at Wem in 1892; his mother’s maiden name was Minshall. [Shropshire BMD] The 1901 Census records him as being born in Rye Bank, and living with his parents, Henry & Elizabeth Cotton, in Rye Bank, Wem. His father was a gas yard stoker, born at Waterloo, Wem; his mother was born at Northwood, Wem. The 1911 Census reports him living at Whixall Hall, Whitchurch, Shropshire and working as a cowman. He enlisted at Aldershot on 11th November 1914 and became a driver in the Army Service Corps. On leave from France, he contracted influenza followed by pneumonia; he died in Prees Heath Military Hospital on 3rd November 1918. [Attestation Certificat]] The Vis-en-Artois Memorial [Panel 12], Pas de Calais, France carries a commemoration, as well as both the Edstaston and Wem war memorials. Thomas Howard Darlington*, Gunner, [200872], Royal Garrison Artillery; formerly [1460], Welsh Army R.G.A. Thomas’ birth was registered at Wem in 1886; his mother’s name is given as Howard. The 1891 Census records him living with his parents, Richard & Rebecca Darlington, at Paddol Green, Shropshire; his birthplace is noted as Edstaston. One sibling, William, is reported as being born in Liverpool though later censuses record this as Edstaston. Richard Darlington is a farmer. The 1901 Census notes the family living in Edstaston and Richard Darlington being a farmer in his own account; born in Wem. Rebecca is reported as born in Loppington. The 1911 Census records the family address as The Shrubbery, No. 1, Paddol Green, Edstaston. Thomas' occupation is listed as farmer and he is single. Rebecca Darlington, now a widow, is recorded as a farmer; it is now noted that she was born in Minsterley. A nephew, Thomas Howard, born in Liverpool and working as a cattle feed merchant, is staying with them. Thomas Howard Darlington initially enlisted as a gunner in the Welsh Army, Royal Field Artillery. He was wounded in the right chest wall on 17th July 1916. After recovering at Newhaven, he was transferred to the Royal Garrison Artillery - Siege Anti-Aircraft Battery. While serving in Italy, he took leave but when he reported back, he had developed influenza. On 20th October 1918, he died at a clearing station in France, aged 32 years. He is buried at the Montecchio Precalcino Communal Cemetery Extension, [Plot 6, Row C, Grave 1] Vicenza, Italy. Richard Jebb and Rebecca Jane Darlington of Paddo(n)l Green are recorded as his parents. John Harold Davall*, Private, [39475], 2nd Bn., South Wales Borderers, formerly [4207], Monmouthshire Regiment. John's birth is recorded at Wem in 1888 [Select Births & Christenings 1538-1975]; Shropshire BMD notes it as 1887 with his mother's maiden name given as Roe. The 1891 Census shows John living with his parents, John & Emma Davall, in Tilley and Trench, Shropshire. Both parents were born in Staffordshire, his father in Colton and his mother in Yoxall; both came from agricultural labouring families. The father’s occupation is given as gardener. The 1901 Census shows a family move to Palms Hill, Shropshire and gives John’s birthplace as Loppington. The 1911 Census gives his birthplace as Tilley. John is now boarding at Fox Cottage, Broad Oak, Albrighton, Shrewsbury, and working as a gardener. Initially he enlisted in the Monmouthshire Regiment and then was transferred to the South Wales Borderers. He was killed in action on 21st October 1916 and is commemorated on the Thiepval Memorial, [Pier and Face 4A] Somme, France. The commemoration includes his father Mr. F. Davall, of Palms Hill, Wem, Salop, and cites him as the previous husband of Clara Ann Hamer (formerly Davall) of Trebanos, Swansea, Glamorgan, who married Thomas Hamer in 1920. William Davies, Private, [23752]. 1st Bn., King's Shropshire Light Infantry William’s birth was registered at Wem in 1877; his mother’s maiden name was noted as Holding. [Shropshire BMD] Richard Davies and Ann Holding married in 1876. The 1881 Census reports William living with his grandparents, William & Emma Holding, in Commonwood, Wem. His birthplace is recorded as Shawbury, Shropshire. William Holding was an agricultural labourer. The 1911 Census notes that he is still living with his grandparents but that the family has moved to 66, Noble Street, Wem; he was employed as a general labourer. His birthplace is now recorded as Besford Wood, Wem. He enlisted in the KSLI in 1915. In March 1917, he was treated for Synovitis of the right knee. His religion was recorded as Church of England. On 4th December 1917, he was killed in action. His commemoration is on Panel 8-9, the Cambrai Memorial, Louverval, Nord, France. Harry Sydney Edwards, *, Rifleman, [8943], 2Bn., Rifle Brigade (The Prince Consort's Own) Born: Wem, Shropshire. Died: Sunday 9 May 1915, aged 28. Cemetery: Ploegstreet Memorial, Comines-Warneton, Hainaut, Belgium.[Grave or Reference Panel Number: Panel 10] Theatre of War: France & Flanders, killed in action. J. Evans* William Richard Charles Evans, Private, [200661], 1st/4th Bn., King's Shropshire Light Infantry William’s birth was registered at Wem in 1893; his mother’s maiden name is given as Bryan. [Shropshire BMD] Ann Bryan and Abraham Evans were married in Edstaston, Shropshire in 1887. [Shropshire BMD] The 1891 Census records them living at Wemsbrook Road Fields, Wem with two children, Joseph and an unnamed infant; Abraham is recorded as an agricultural labourer. Ann was norn in Hodnet and Abraham in Wem. The 1901 Census lists William. Annie Evans is now a widow working as a washerwoman and she lives with sons Joseph and William in Worrell’s Yard, High Street, Wem. Joseph works as an assistant in photography and William as a labourer. William was killed in action on the 7th June 1918, aged 25 years. He is commemorated on the Soissons Memorial, [Stone No, 25A] Aisne, France carrying the additional information, son of Annie Evans, of 20 Leek St., Wem, and the late Abraham Evans. William Arthur Forster , Private, [15000], 1st/6th Bn., Cheshire Regiment The 1891 Census records William being born at and living in Monks Coppenhall, (Nantwich), Cheshire, with his parents William & Jane Forster. His birth year is given as 1889 and his father’s occupation as general labourer. His father’s birthplace is recorded as Wolstanton, Staffordshire. and his mother’s as Orleton, Herefordshire. The 1901 Census records the family as moved to The Square (between 10 & 12, Leek St.), Wem. William’s father is now working as a scavenger. The 1911 Census shows the family living at 93. High St., Wem. William is working as a general labourer. There are 4 other siblings living at this address; the sister, Annie, is married to Walter Tomlinson, a leather dresser. William was killed in action on 14th October 1916, aged 28 years, leaving a widow Lily Forster and a daughter Lily M. Forster of Design St., Bolton. He is commemorated at the Mill Road Cemetery, Thiepval, XIII. F. 5. France George Edward France*, Private, [26612], 6th Bn., King's Shropshire Light Infantry. George’s birth was registered at Wem in 1893; his mother’s maiden name is given as Stanton. [Shropshire BMD] The 1901 Census records George living at Stanton upon High Heath, Shropshire with his parents, Stephen & Sarah France, and several other siblings. Stephen France is an agricultural labourer and was born at High Hatton, Shropshire, his wife, Sarah, was born in Stanton. The 1911 Census shows the family having moved to 52 Sherwood, Preston Brockhurst, and George is working as a farm labourer. He first enlisted in the Shropshire Yeomanry and then transferred to the King’s Shropshire Light Infantry. On the 7th October 1916, he died of his wounds in France. His grave is in the Carnoy Military Cemetery, [H18], Somme, France. John Garmston, Private, [19468], 3rd Bn. (3rd Coy), Coldstream Guards Born: Wem, Shropshire, 1898 Enlisted: Wem, Shropshire. Residence: Ruabon, North Wales. Died: Tuesday 9 October 1917, aged 20. Cemetery: Artillery Wood Cemetery, Boezinge, Ypres, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium.[Grave or Reference Panel Number: VIII.B10] Theatre of War: France & Flanders, killed in action. Richard Gilbert, Private, [52388], 10th Bn., Cheshire Regiment Richard’s birth is registered at Crewe in 1899. [FreeBMD] His baptism is recorded at Wybunbury, Cheshire on 19th February 1899 with the place of residence is also given as Wybunbury. The 1901 Census records Richard living with his parents, Alfred & Ann Gilbert in Shavington cum Gresty, and siblings, Alfred, George, Herbert and Frank. The father worked coaling a railway engine and was born in Crewe; his mother was born in Chirk, Flintshire. The 1911 Census shows that the family had moved to Colemere, Ellesmere and the father is working as a cowman on a farm; his birthplace is now reported as Bettisfield near Whitchurch. (The 1891 Wales Census confirms this as the birthplace.} Richard’s bothers, Frank, William, Ernest and Edmund, are also living there. Initially, Richard enlisted in the Shropshire Yeomanry and then transferred to the Cheshire Regiment. On 21st October 1916, while serving with the Cheshire Regiment, he was treated for a gunshot wound and transferred to No. 27 Ambulance Train. He died of his wounds on the 23rd October 1916. He is buried in the Wimereux Communal Cemetery, Pas de Calais, France. At this time his parents are living in Rue Wood, Wem. George Albert Griffiths, Private, [62914], The King's (Liverpool Regiment), Labour Companies. Born: Whitchurch, Shropshire. Enlisted: Wem, Shropshire Residence: Wem, Shropshire Died: Wednesday 7 March 1917, aged 27. Cemetery: Wem Congregational Cemetery [Grave or Reference Panel Number: 9, left of main path.] Theatre of War: Home. Thomas Groom*, Private, [54555], 24th (Denbighshire Yeomanry) Bn., Royal Welsh Fusiliers. Thomas’ birth was registered at Newport, Shropshire in 1889. [Civil Registration Birth 1837 – 1915] The 1901 Census records Thomas living with his parents, George & Mary Groom, in Wybunbury, Cheshire, plus his siblings: George, William, Edwin, Martha, Alfred, Edith and Harry. His father was born in Edstaston, Wem and worked on the railways; his mother was born in Prees. Mary Jones and George Groom married in Wem on 10th October, 1878. [Select Marriages – 1538-1973] Mary’s father was Samuel Jones, who was born in Prees and worked as a labourer and tree feller. Mary was born in Longport, Staffordshire. The 1911 Census records Thomas working as a cattleman on a dairy farm in Rue Wood, Wem. He is the nephew of Thomas & Elizabeth; Thomas is the dairy farmer. The Needham's adopted daughter, Sarah Hughes, is also living in the household. In 1915 George enters a civil marriage with Sarah Hughes in Wrexham. [Free BMD] He enlists in the Royal Welsh Fusiliers and is killed in action on 28th June 1918. He is commemorated on the Ploegsteert Memorial, Comines-Warneton, Hainaut, Belgium. The commemoration describes him as the son of George and Mary Groom, of 2, Beaumont Terrace, John's St., Castlefields, Shrewsbury; and husband of Sarah Griffiths (formerly Groom), of Rhoseyllen, Wrexham, Denbighshire. [CWGC] John William Higgins*, Private, [24113], 7th Bn., King's Shropshire Light Infantry, 7th Battalion. Born: Tilley, Wem; son of Thomas and Alice Higgins, of Moathouse Cottages, Wem, Shropshire Enlisted: Wem Died: 9 April 1917, at the age of 20, killed in action on the Bois-des-Boeufs, near Tilloy, on the first day of the Battle of the Scarpe; killed in action. Cemetery: Tilloy British Cemetery, Tilloy-les-Mofflaines, Pas de Calais, France [Grave or Reference Panel Number: IV. G. 5] Theatre of War: France & Flanders. Charles Hinton MM, Serjeant, [53548], 2nd Bn., Welsh Regiment George Charles Hinton’s birth was registered at Wem in 1891. The 1901 Census records him living in Station Rd., Wem with his uncle, John Hinton, whose occupation is given as bricklayer. The 1911 Census has him working as a horse driver in the household of Samuel & Alice Johnson at Cross Acres, Cheadle. Samuel Johnson is a farmer of 100 acres. He initially enlisted in the Cheshire Regiment at Altrincham, while residing at Stretchford, and then transferred to the Welsh Regiment and was killed on 31 October 1918. The London Gazette Supplement 7#40;11 February 1919) records the award of the Military Medal. Buried in Highland Cemetery, Le Cateau, Nord, France. [CWGC records contact with the uncle, John Hinton, of 20, Station Rd., Wem with regard to his headstone.] Silas Edward Huxley, Private, [S/43144] 6th/7th Bn., Gordon Highlanders Born: Wem, son of Mrs Laura Huxley, of 37, High St., Wem, Shropshire. Enlisted: Liverpool Died: Sunday 13 October 1918, aged 27 Cemetery: Iwuy Communal Cemetery, Nord, France [Grave or Reference Panel Number: B.13] Theatre of War: France & Flanders, killed in action. Joseph Jarman, Private, [9775], 2nd Bn. King's Shropshire Light Infantry The marriage of Martha Barnett and Edward Jarman was registered at Whitchurch, Shropshire in 1893. [IB] The 1911 Census records him living at 2, Browns Cottages, Bank House Lane, Wem. His occupation is recorded as labourer in saw mills. The householder is his uncle John Barnett who is employed in a cheese factory. He enlisted in the Gordon Highlanders in 1914 and was sent to France 12th December 1914. [Medal Roll Index Cards] On 25th April 1915, he was killed in action. Military records show that the sole legatee was John Barnett. Joseph is commemorated at Menin Gate, [Panel 47 & 49] Ypres, West-Vlaaderen, Belgium. Edgar Jennings, Private, [230236], 4th Reserve Bn., King's Shropshire Light Infantry; transfered to (508692) 423rd Agricultural Coy., Labour Corps. Also served in Shropshire Yeomanry. Edgar’s birth was registered at Wem in 1894. [Shropshire BMD] The 1911 census shows him living at Pool’s Farm, with his mother, Sarah Eliza Jennings, with his brothers: Meredith, Joseph, Richard, and Joseph, and sister, Eunice. His mother’s occupation is given as farmer. The 1911 Census reports an Edgar Jennings working as a grocer’s assistant and living at 32A, Castle St., Shrewsbury. Edgar served initially in the Shropshire Yeomanry and then in the KLSI. On 13th February 1919, he died of influenza that developed after he was injured. Military records give his legatee as Henry Woollam. The National Probate Calendar lists legatees as Henry Woollam, asst. food commissioner, and Richard Charles Evans, farmer. He is buried at St. Peter and St Paul’s Church Cemetery, [22/37]. Whitchurch Rd., Wem. The inscription lists him as son of Sarah Eliza Jennings of Pool's farm. Allan Jones, Acting Bombardier, [604288], 2nd/1st Shropshire Bty., Royal Horse Artillery The 1901 Census records Allan living with his parents, Thomas & Mary Ann Jones, in School Lane, Ruyton. Thomas Jones is a Police Sergeant and was born in Clun, Shropshire; Mary Ann Jones was born in Llandyssil, Monmouthshire. The 1911 Census has Allan living at the Police Station, 43, Cross St., Ellesmere with his parents, and sister Doris May. Allan is working as a clerk in an estate office; his father is now an Inspector with the Shropshire Constabulary. He enlisted in the Royal Horse Artillery and reached the rank of Acting Bombardier (equivalent to a lance corporal) and died on 12th June 1917. He is buried at the Bailleul Communal Cemetery Extension (nord), [III C 355], France. [CWGC]. The description includes the addition "son of Thomas and Mary Ann Jones, of Rothesay, Aston Rd., Wem, Salop.". The 1939 Register shows Thomas & Mary Jones still living at that address, Thomas is described as a retired Police Superintendent. H. Jones* J. Jones* John Cecil Jones*, Lance Corporal, [31639], 19th Bn., Welsh Regiment John’s birth was register at Wem in 1894; his mother’sname is given as MacDonald. [Shropshire BMD] The 1901 Census records John living with his parents, Edwin & Isabella Jones, at 57, Aston St., Wem; his father's occupation is given as painter and was born in Wem, his mother was born in Inverness. His sisters: Eva G., Jessie and Eva I. plus brother, George, are also present. The 1911 Census shows that the family has moved to 65, New St., Wem. John is working as a law clerk. His sisters: Eva Gladys, Jessie Martha and Eva Isabel, plus brother, George Douglas, are also present. Eva Gladys is working as a dressmaker and their father is now described as a house painter. John enlisted in the Welsh Regiment at Knighton, Radnorshire, reaching the rank of Lance Corporal. He died in the 1st London General Hospital on 3rd April 1917, aged 23 years, and is buried in the Whitchurch Road Cemetery (St Peter & St Paul's), Wem. Percy Walter Jones, Private, [52854], 13th Bn., Chesire Regiment; formerly (2683) Shropshire Yeomanry. Percy’s birth was registered at Ellesmere (Baschurch), Shropshire, in 1891; his mother’s maiden name is also recorded as Jones. The 1911 Census records Percy living at Heath, Ludlow with his parents, John & Eliza Jones, and sisters: Rose and Lucy, plus one brother, Ernest. Both his parents were born in Radnorshire and his father’s occupation is recorded as farmer. His Attestation Record shows him enlisting in the Shropshire Yeomanry in September 1915. His address is given as Lea Farm, Presthorpe, Much Wenlock. His height is recorded as 5’5”. During August/September 1916, he is transferred to the Cheshire Regiment. On 21st October 1916, he is reported "Missing in Action" and then "Killed in Action", aged 24 years. He is commemorated on the Theipval Memorial [Pier and Face 3C & 4A], Somme, France. John and Eliza Ann Jones are then living at Blythbury Farm, Shifnal. William Edward Jones*, Private, [25976], 1st Bn., Cheshire Regiment. William’s baptism took place on 8th May 1897 in Wem; his parents were David & Mary Ann Jones. [England, Select Births and Christenings, 1538-1975] Mary Ann Stokes and David Jones married in Wem on 14th February 1893; Mary’s father is listed as Edward Stokes. The 1881 Census gives Mary Ann’s birthplace as Lawns, Wem; the 1891 Census records that she is working as a waitress at the White Hart Hotel in Loppington. The 1901 Census records William living with his parents, David & Mary Ann Jones, at 10, Ellesmere St., Ellesmere Rd., Wem plus brothers: Richard, Edgar, and Frank. Mary Stokes, his grandmother also lives with them. His father was born in Llansantffraid, Powys and is a worker in a cheese factory; his mother’s birthplace is given as Loppington. The 1911 Census shows William at the same address and a sister, Bessie, has joined the household. He is still at school but working as a part time errand boy. William enlisted in the Cheshire Regiment. On 4th September 1916 he was wounded; on 5th November 1917, he was ‘Killed in Action’. He is commemorated on the Tyne Cot Memorial [Panel 61 to 63], Zonnebekke, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium. Francis George Kynaston*, Private, [47379], 10th Bn., King's Own Scottish Borderers. Born: Wem, Shropshire Enlisted: Wem, Shropshire Residence: Wem, Shropshire Died: Thursday 22 August 1918, aged 35. Cemetery: Aval Wood Military Cemetery, Vieux-Berquin, Nord, France [Grave or Reference Panel Number: I.C.15] Theatre of War: France & Flanders, killed in action. Henry Lewis*, Private, [2/45805], 7th Bn., South Wales Borderers; formerly [M/287954] RASC Born: Liverpool. Enlisted: Grove Park, London Residence: Wem, Shropshire. Died: Sunday 15 December 1918, aged 29 (Salonika) Cemetery: Mikra British Cemetery, Kalamaria, Greece [Grave or Reference Panel Number: 999] Theatre of War: Balkans. James Albert Lewis, Driver, [25076], 84th Bde., Royal Field Artillery James’ birth was registered at Wem in 1892; his mother’s maiden name was given as Williams. [Shropshire BMD] The 1901 Census shows him living at 11, Leek St., Wem, with his parents, George & Margaret Lewis, plus his siblings, Gertrude and Thomas. Both parents were born in Welshpool, and his father was a gardener; his brother, Thomas, was an apprentice gardener. The 1911 census records James living as a boarder at 22a Park Lane, Whitefield, Manchester; he was working as an under-gardener (domestic). On 11th August 1914, he married Margaret Ann Prestwich at Radcliffe St. John, Lancashire. James’ occupation is given as gardener; Margaret’s as weaver. [Manchester, England, Marriages and Banns, 1754-1930] He enlisted in the Royal Horse Artillery and Royal Field Artillery at Bury, Lancashire; his rank is given as both driver and gunner. On 28th November 1917, he died of his wounds. His grave is in the Mendinghem Military Cemetery [I.G. 29], Poperinge, West-Vlaaneren, Belgium. Margaret Ann Lewis remarried in 1920 to John Lister. Harry Clive Lloyd, Private, [9900], 1st Bn., King's Shropshire Light Infantry Harry’s birth was registered at Wem in 1894; his mother’s maiden name was given as Edwards. [Shropshire BMD] The 1901 Census shows him living at Ladies Walk, Chapel St., Wem with his parents John & Lizzie Ann Lloyd, plus his brother Thomas. John Lloyd was born in Clive and worked as a maltser and his wife was born in Hinstock. Military records (Soldier's Effects) record that he enlisted in the KSLI on 15th March 1912 at Wem. His trade is registered as maltser. He died of his wounds on 23rd October 1914 and is commemorated on the Ploegsteert Memorial [Panel 8], Comines-Warneton, Hainaut, Belgium Percy Ernest Kinsey Lloyd, Serjeant [6705], 2nd Bn., King's Royal Rifle Corp The 1891 Census records him living with his parents, Edward & Sarah Lloyd, in Leighton, Shropshire. Edward is a carpenter and was born in Byttws, Shropshire (This is probably Bettws, near Newport in South Wales.). His wife is recorded as being born Etheall, Warwickshire. There are 3 children besides Percy, his siblings, Eunice, Esmerelda and Ernest. All are reported as born in Sutton; this is likely to be Sutton Maddock near Coalport. The 1901 Census records a Percy Ernst Lloyd, born in Coalport, around 1884 and a clerk, boarding at a mission in St Julian’s, Shrewsbury. Short Term Attestation shows Percy enlisting in the King's Royal Rifle Corps on 20 November 1905 at Shrewsbury; his birth year is given as 1884, birthplace as Coalport and his father as Edward Stanley Lloyd. During this period, the KSLI was not open to recruits. He was promoted Lance Corporal (2nd Battalion) on 12 October 1907; then Corporal from 18 April 1911. On 10 June 1912 at Shorncliffe Camp, Kent he was transferred to the Army Reserve, two years ahead of his 9-year term. During August 1914 he was recalled from the Army Reserve on the declaration of war. He re-joined the 2nd Battalion King's Royal Rifle Corps sailing for France on 12 August 1914. Seeing action at Mons during August, [Great Retreat to Marne] then he was promoted to Sergeant on 19 September. The following month, he was reported missing then presumed dead; the final report states "died of wounds" on 31 October 1914. This would likely be at the Battle of Gheluvelt, part of 1st Battle of Ypres. The Battalion was virtually wiped out. He is commemorated on the Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial, [Panel 51 & 53] Ypres, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium. The CWGC also reports that he was the son of Edward Stanley Lloyd, of 6, Summerfield Rd., Wem, Salop, and the late Sarah Lloyd. Strong’s Guide to Wem confirms Edward Lloyd at this address. Charles Frederick Matthews*, Private, [52127], 1st Bn., Cheshire Regiment, formerly [3026], Shropshire Yeomanry Charles' birth was registered in 1892 at Wem. [Shropshire BMD] Registration was confirmed as in the 2nd quarter of 1892. [England & Wales, Civil Registration Birth Index, 1837-1915] The 1901 Census records him living at 64, Noble St., Wem with Thomas & Hannah Matthews. Thomas is a chimney sweep and born in Wem while Hannah was born in Moreton Corbet. Other children, Emily, Annie, Frank and Mary are also present' Emily, Annie and Mabel are dressmakers and Frank is a bricklayer. The 1911 Census shows Charles still living at the same address and working as a carpenter's apprentice. Also present is Emily, unmarried and carrying out domestic duties; Mabel, who has married James Dulson (Wem, 1911); the 1939 Register shows her living in Manchester with her husband was a compositor. The Attestation Records show Charles enlisted in the Shropshire Yeomanry on 10 April 1916. On 11 August 1916, he was posted to the Base Depot and then to France where on 19 August he was transferred to the 1st Cheshire's and then to the 4th Cheshire's. He was "Killed in Action" on 25 September 1916. He is commemorated on the Thiepval Memorial [Pier and Face 3 C and 4 A.], Somme, France. Army records show that his legatee was Emily Matthews. The Battle of the Somme took place from July to November 1916. It was a joint British and French offensive on the Western Front against the German army. This battle turned into one of the most bitter and costly engagements of the war with over one million casualties. The major problem for the British infantry was that< the artillery bombardment failed to destroy the German barbed wire barricades resulting in British soldiers being caught in the open and subjected to intense fire from machine guns and other weapons. There were some initial British successes that the commanders attempted to build on with the Battle of Morval, which began on 25 September and continued on the following day with the Battle of Thiepval Ridge. The German defences held and they took back most of the ground that they had lost. Frederick Matthews, Private, [10290], 1st Bn., King's Shropshire Light Infantry Military records indicate that Frederick was born in 1898 in Wem. He enlisted in the KSLI around late August, 1913, landed in France on 10 September 1914 and was killed in action on 10 November 1915. Interment was at the Menin Road South Military Cemetery, [III. E. 28] Ypres, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium [CWGC] Those records also identify Asenath Reynolds of 45, Station Road, Wem as his mother. The 1911 Census records Asenath Reynolds as living at thhe above address with her husband Arthur Reynolds and their adopted son, Fred Furber. She was born in Bridport, Dorset. The 1891 Census locates her in Soulton Rd., Lacon, Wem living with her then husband John Barnett, and their children, William and Ada. Registration records for William (born 1882) and Ada (born 1887) record their mother’s maiden name as Joy. [Shropshire BMD] The War Diaries of the 1st Battalion, KSLI records Frederick and his comrades on the front line between Menin Road and Railway Wood, 'A' Coy is on the right and 'D' Coy on the left, while 'B' and 'C' companies are in support. 'A' Coy is shelled and mortared at about 4 p.m., killing three men and wounding two. One of the men killed is Frederick Matthews. The battalion is relieved at 6pm and sent to Poperinghe. W. G. Matthews* William Henry Millman, Serjeant, [21420], 6th Bn., Army Vertinary Corp. Williams’ birth is recorded in Kidderminster, Worcs., in 1882. [Free BMD] Stourport is cited as the birthplace in the censuses. The 1891 Census records him living in Lower Mitton, Worcs,. With his parents, Thomas & Maria Millman; Thomas Millman is a licensed victualler. The 1901 Census records him living with his widowed father who is the publican of the Red Lion Inn, Lower Mitton; William is working as a barman. Siblings Annie and Thomas are also living there. Albert Taylor, a groom, is part of the household, which would indicate that the inn had stabling facilities. The Worcestershire Registers show that William Henry Millman married Lilian Mary Smith in the Kiddiminster diocese in 1904. The 1911 Census shows him having moved to No.1, Lowe Hill Rd., Wem and living with his wife, Lilian May; her birthplace is shown as Hampton Lucy, Warwickshire. Her parents are Tom ; Sarah Smith, Tom Smith is a labourer. His occupation is recorded as farm waggoner. There are 3 children, William, Frank, and Kathleen& the first two were born in Stourport, while Kathleen was born in Wem. William Henry enlisted in the Army Veterinary Corp. He died on 26th November 1917, aged 35 years. His resting place is Alexandria (Hadra) War Memorial Cemetery, Egypt. Additional information from military records says that his parents were "the late T. H. and M. Millman, of Lion Hotel, Stourport, Worcs.; and he was the husband of Lilian Mary Millman, of Hawthorne Cottage, Whitchurch, Salop.". John Albert Morris*, Rifleman, [371487], 8th Bn., City of London Regiment (Post Office Rifles) John’s birth was registered at Wem in the last quarter of 1888. [England, Select Births and Christenings, 1538-1975] The 1891 Census shows him living at 29, New St., Wem with his widowed mother Elizabeth J. Morris; his brothers Joseph W., Arthur J., Charles H. and Thomas G. are also recorded. Thir mother’s birthplace is given as Wolverhampton, Staffs.. The 1881 Census shows Elizabeth Morris living with her husband, Joseph, in Leek St., Wem. Joseph was born in Dilwyn, Herefordshire and is an engine fitter. There are two children, Joseph and Mary. The 1911 Census records the family living at 29, New St., Wem; John is working as an auxiliary fireman. His mother now has the surname, Hales, and is again described as a widower. There is a daughter, Elizabeth Hales, who was born in Wem (1897). John enlisted in London; his residence is given as Congelton, Cheshire. He died of his wounds on 9th June 1917 and rests in Lijssenthoek Military Cemetery, Poperinge, West-Vlaanderen. His parents are listed as Elizabeth Jane Morris, of 29, New Street, Wem, Salop, and the late Joseph Morris. Fitzcharles Stebbings Page, Lance Serjeant, [10187], 'C' Coy., 1st Bn., King's Shropshire Light Infantry FitzCharles was baptised in Wem on the 27th September 1896; his parents are recorded as William James & Margaret Mary Page. [Baptism records] His birth was recorded in the first quarter of 1895. An Ancestry family tree gives Margaret Page's maiden name as Bowdler. The 1901 Census records him living with his parents in Mill St., Wem with siblings, William, Frances and Rachael. His father is a journeyman painter and was born in Rochdale, Lancs.; his mother was born in Weston under Redcastle. The 1911 Census shows the family living at 6, Park Ave., Wem. There are now additional children, Daisy and Arthur. Their father is now described as a housepainter and Fitzcharles is an apprentice housepainter. William James' place of birth is now given as Birkenhead, Cheshire. (This may be an error, the family lived in Birkenhead when William was a child.) Fitzcharles enlisted in the KSLI and arrived in France on 10th September 1914, eventually reaching the rank of Lance Serjeant. On the 17th August 1915, when he was still a Lance Corporal, he was wounded. [War Office Casualty List, 17/06/1915] On the 24th August 1916, he was again admitted to casualty, this time the cause of admission was a gunshot wound to the abdomen. He died of this wound on 3rd September. His burial site is in Puchevillers British Cemetery, IV A 22, Somme, France. The head stone reads, "He laid down his life for us all. Greater love hath no man." [GWGC, correspondence] Puchevillers is a village on the D11 about 19 kilometres north-east of Amiens. John Edward Parry*, Driver, [T/370384], 662nd Coy. (Park Royal), Royal Army Service Corps Various records suggest that John Edward was born in Minsterley. Shropshire in 1879. The 1901 Census records him living at Vennington, Westbury, Shropshire with his widowed father, John Parry, who was born in Worthen and at the age of 72 years, is employed as a labourer on a farm. John Edward is employed as a cattleman. In the first quarter of 1914, he married Lilias A. Adams at Wem. [Free BMD] He enlisted in the RASC as a driver. On 5th March 1918, he died at the Royal Herbert Hospital in Woolwich, and is buried in the Whitchurch Road Cemetery (St Peter & St Paul's), Wem. Military records describe him as the son of the late John and Mary Parry; husband of Lilies Annie Parry, of 2, Horton Villa, Horton, Wem. Pension records show his beneficiaries to be his widow, Lilias Annie Parry, and children, Audrey Emma and Harriet Lilias. The 1939 Register shows Lilias Parry still living at 2, Horton Villas with her daughter Harriet and son-in-law, Edgar Ralphs, a wood machinist. George Pemberton*, Private, [18924], Machine Gun Corps (Infantry) George's birth was registered at Wem in 1888; his mother's maiden name was recorded as Ebrey. [Shropshire BMD] The 1891 Census recods him living with his parents, George & Emma Pemberton, in Moreton Corbet with siblings, Mary, Jane, Rowannah and Samuel. Their father was born in Stanton and worked as an agricultural labourer. Their mother was born in Clive and was the daughter of John & Eliza Ebray, the former was born in Clive and the latter in Stanton. John Ebray was an agricultural labourer. The 1901 Census records George working for and living in the household of a farmer at Brandwood, Myddle, Shropshire as an agricultural labourer. In 1905, George Pemberton and Ethel Beatrice Edge marry in Wem. [England & Wales Civil Marriage Registration Index 1837-1915] The 1911 Census shows George & Ethel living at No. 12, Aston, Wem with their two daughters, Ethel May and Mary Jane. George is working as a general labourer. George initially enlisted in the KSLI but was transferred into the Machine Gun Corps. He was killed in action on 19th April 1916. He is buried in the Essex Farm Cemetery, II G 7, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium. Correspondence of the Imperial War Graves Commission describes him as the son of George and Emma Pemberton, of Bomere Heath, Salop; husband of Ethel Beatrice Pemberton, of 6, Barker's Green, Wem, Salop. His grave carries the epithet, "Sadly missed at home." John Henry Phillips, Private, [SASR/04540], Royal Army Service Corps. John's birth was registered at Wem in 1876, 2nd quarter. [England & Wales, Civil Registration Birth Index, 1837-1915] He was baptised on 28 May 1876 in Wem. [England, Select Births and Christenings, 1538-1975] In June 1896, John married Martha Harriet Cartwright at Wem. [Free BMD] The 1891 Census shows that Martha was born in Wem, and was the daughter of Samuel & Elizabeth Cartwright. Samuel was a wheelwright and carpenter (according to the 1881 Census) born in Cockshutt, and Elizabeth born in Bilston, Staffs. The 1901 Census shows John & Martha living at 42, Noble Street, with their children: Charlotte and George. John is working as a bricklayer's assistant. The 1911 Census shows that the family has moved to 54, Noble Street, with their children: Lottie, Wilfred, Violet, Doris, Constance and Samuel. John is working as a general labourer. In 1914, John aged 34 years, enlisted in the KSLI Army Reserve (Special Reserve) for one year. Later he was mobilised at Shrewsbury in August 1914 into the Royal Army Service Corps and was described as 5'6½", brown hair and eyes; his religion as Church of England. He served in Alexandria, from 16 March 1916 and Salernica, from 1 December 1916. He was diagnosed with malaria in 1917. The Pension Record Ledger describes him as disabled and he was demobilised on 21 February 1919. He died on 5 August 1920. He is buried in the Whitchurch Road Cemetery, [24.18] Wem. James Pitt*, Private, [17777], 7th Bn., King's Shropshire Light Infantry. James' birth was registered at Wem in 1899, first quarter. His parents, Mary Jane Cain & James Pitt, were married at Prescot, Lancashire in 1895. The 1901 Census records James, born in Nonely, Wem living with his parents in Nonely; his siblings Charles and Florence, born in Baschurch, are also recorded. Their father is a blacksmith (in his own right) and was born in Wombourne, Staffs.; their mother was born in Pipers Ash Hoole, Cheshire. The 1911 Census shows only one change, the addition of a brother, Henry, also born in Noneley. James enlisted into the KSLI at Market Drayton and became part of the Army Reserve (Special Reserve). He was killed in action on 3rd May 1917, aged 18 years. He is commemorated on the Arras Memorial at Faubourg-D'Amiens Cemetery, Bay 7, Arras, Pas de Calais, France. The additional information carried by CWGC is that he was the son of James Pitt, of Noneley, Wem, Salop, and the late Mary Pitt. William Povey, Private, [6869] 2nd Bn., King's Shropshire Light Infantry William's birth was registered at Wem in 1887, first quarter. [England & Wales Civil Registration Birth Index] The London & North Western Railway records his birth date as 24th November 1886. The 1891 Census shows him living at 50, Noble St., Wem, with his parents, Thomas & Hannah Povey, plus siblings: Alice, Hannah, Mary, Thomas, Walter and Fred. Their father was a tanyard labourer born in Whitchurch; his wife was born in Wem. The 1901 Census has William working as an agricultural labourer at Bridleway Gate Farm, Morton Corbet. His employers were the Ravenshaws, mother and daughter. The London & North Western Railway [FR series registers 1905 - 1908; AR series registers J - Z 1901 - 1911; MR series registers 1905 – 1908] shows him joining the company as a labourer on 27th June 1907 and leaving on 20th December 1907. Prior to this, he must have worked for the Shrewsbury & Wem Brewery since they provided a reference for him. William enlisted in the KSLI and died of his wounds on 18th May 1915. From 8th May 1915 to 12th May 1915, the 2nd Battalion was engaged in the Battle of Frezenberg Ridge, part of the Second Battle of Ypres. He is buried or commemorated at the Brandhoek Military Cemetery [I. A. 7], Ypres, West-Vlaanderen. The register of Soldier's Effects lists him as a Lance Corporal. John Richmond Pugh*, Private, [203345[, 6th Bn., Duke of Edinburgh's (Wiltshire Regiment); formerly [1327[, Royal Wiltshire Yeomanry John's birth was registered at Kington, Herefordshire in the 3rd quarter of 1892; family records give July as the month of his birth and his mother's maiden name as Gittens. The 1901 Census records him living in Broughton, Shropshire with his parents, William & Mary Pugh, plus siblings: Grace, Gladys, Ernest and Thomas. His place of birth is narrowed to Presteigne, Radnorshire. His father is a gardener born in Dawlish, Herefordshire and his mother was born in Clun, Shropshire. Ernest was born in Broughton but the other siblings were also born in Presteigne. There is a Thomas Holding, a gardener's help, lodging with the family; he was born in Wem. The 1911 Census shows that John, his parents, and brother Ernest have moved to 3, The Whym, Shrewsbury Rd., Wem. He is now working as a domestic gardener. Military records show that he enlisted at Bradford-on-Avon, Wiltshire into the Royal Wiltshire Yeomanry. He died on 5th December 1918, aged 26 years, at a hospital in Cologne, Germany. He is buried in Cologne Southern Cemetery [VII. E. 20], Stadtkreis Köln, Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany. Additional information identifies his parents as William & Mary Ann Pugh, of 10, Wem Rd., Clive, Shrewsbury. The 1939 Register shows William & Mary Ann Pugh living at 17, Station Rd., Wem. William Pugh is now retired from gardening. Walter Purslow, Sapper, [42608], 67th Field Coy., Royal Engineers Walter’s birth was registered in Atcham, St Mary's, Shrewsbury in 1875; his mother’s maiden name is shown as Green. [Shropshire BMD] On 27th July 1868, John Purslow married Harriet Green at Chorley, near Macclesfield, Cheshire. The bride’s birth year is given as 1843 and her father identified as James Green. [] The 1881 Census records Walter living with his parents John & Harriet Purslow at Comendy Lodge, Corwen, Merionethshire. His siblings John, Frances and Emma are also present; John was born in Liverpool, Frances and Emma in Corwen. Their father is a gardener (domestic) and was born in Minsterley, Shrewsbury. The 1891 Census shows them having moved to Swinley, Wigan, where the father is working as a coachman. As well as Walter, siblings John, Louisa, Henry and Harriet are also present. The 1911 Census records the family living at 13, Castle St., Woolton, near Liverpool. The father is described as a retired butler. Walter is a Tool Maker at a telephone works; this is likely to be the Automatic Telephone Manufacturing Co. at Milton Road in Liverpool. His brother, John is a gardener and recorded as being born in Waterloo, Liverpool. Harriet has married a butcher, Charles Collins; they have a son, Sydney, and are living in the same household. Walter enlisted in Shrewbury as a sapper in the Royal Engineers. He was initially listed as "Wounded and Missing" but then reported as bring "Killed in Action" on 9th August 1915. He is commemorated on the Helles Memorial [Gallipoli - Panel 24 to 26 or 325 to 328] Canakkale, Turkey. Francis Cooper Pye*, Corporal, [G/2359], 2nd. Bn., Royal Fusiliers (City of London Regiment) Francis' birth was registered at Wem in 1891 (Oct – Dec). [England & Wales, Civil Registration Birth Index, 1837-1915] His mother's maiden name was given as Grocott [Shropshire BMD]. The 1901 Census shows him living at 18, Station Rd., Wem with his parents, William & Sarah Ann Pye. William Wye is a baker and was born in Edstaston. The Pye family came from Shawbury. Other members of the family including Francis' siblings: Katherine, John, Alice and Eva, were all born in Wem. The 1911 Census shows him working as a domestic gardener and lodging at the Gardens, Hawkestone Park, Hodnet, Shropshire. Thomas Badger, another gardener is the head of the household. This census also reports the birth of two more siblings for Francis, twins William and Arthur. Francis, enlisted in Wrexham, and became a corporal in the 2nd battalion of the London Regiment (Royal Fusiliers), who landed at Gallipoli on 25 April 1915. The conditions were very difficult and many troops became sick. By late summer, he had contracted enteritis, and died during the voyage home to Britain (18/19 August 1915). He is commemorated on the Helles Memorial, Gallipoli, Canakkale, Turkey [Stone no. 37; Panel 38 to 42 or 328] [CWGC] Frederick Thomas Ralphs, Private, [39551], 4th Bn., Worcestershire Regiment Frederick’s birth was registered in 1897 (first quarter); his mother’s maiden name is given as Owen. [Shropshire BMD; England & Wales, Civil Registration Birth Index, 1837-1915] He was baptised on 31st January 1906 at Newtown, Wem, with his parents recorded as Alfred Ralphs & Ellen (Ellin). [Select Births & Christenings: 1538-1975] The 1901 Census shows Frederick living in Horton Lane, Wem, with his parents, Alfred & Ellen Ralphs, plus sisters, Annie and Lizzie. Alfred is a labourer in a cheese factory and was born in Wem, as were the children; Ellen was born in Denbighshire. The 1911 Census shows Frederick living with his parents in Horton, his birthplace is now specified as Barkers Green and he is working as a shop assistant in a Grocers/Bakers shop. Alfred’s job is now described as swine feeder in a cheese factory. He is recorded as being born in Preston Brockhurst; Ellen as born in Graig, Llangidwyn, Denbighshire; Beatrice as born in Horton. There are two other children in the household, Alfred & Ellen's grandchildren, Elizabeth and John, who were born in Graig, Llangidwyn. Frederick enlisted in the Worcestershire Regiment though a service no. [2665] was provided for the KSLI. It is possible that as he enlisted in Shrewsbury, he was transferred immediately. He was "Killed in Action" on 20th October 1918 and is buried/interred in Stasegem Communal Cemetery, [A. 14] Harlebeke, Arrondissement Kortrijk, West Flanders (West-Vlaanderen), Belgium. Thomas Ratcliffe*, Private, [237757], 1/1st Bn., Herefordshire Regiment Thomas’ birth was registered in 1884, second quarter, at Wem. The 1891 Census records him living with his parents, George & Jane Ratcliffe, at Creamore, Edstaston, Wem, plus siblings: William, George, Edith, John and Ann. The father is a general labourer, born in Cotton and the mother was born in Prees; the children are all recorded as born in Wem. Also present is George Ratcliffe's sister, Ann Ratcliffe, living by her own means. The 1901 Census specifies their address as Creamore Bank. Present are the parents plus William, Thomas, Edith and John. The father is now recorded as born in Whixall, and being an agricultural labourer. The children are reported as born in Edstaston, and William is a carter at a flour mill. The 1911 Census reports that George is now a widower and working as a general workman on a farm, as are Joseph and Thomas. Edith is a domestic servant, at home, and John is a clothier's assistant. The address is now specified as 4, Creamore Bank. The 1851 Census record George Ratcliffe living with his parents, Samuel & Sarah Ratcliffe in Paddol Green. Samuel Ratcliffe is a farmer of 36 acres. In 1913, 3rd quarter, Thomas Ratcliffe married Frances Beels in Wem. The 1911 Census shows Frances Beels living in Castlefields, Shrewsbury with her parents Frederick & Emily Beels; she was born in Oakengates, Shrewsbury. Thomas enlisted at Wem into the Herefordshire Regiment and was "Killed in Action" on 30th July 1918. His body was reinterred from Oulchy Le Chateau, Aisne to the Raperie British Cemetery, [IX. B. 9] Villemontoire, Aisne. CWGC carries the additional information that Thomas Ratcliffe was the son of the late George and Jane Ratcliffe; husband of Frances Ratcliffe, of 4, Creamore Bank, Wem, Salop. His headstone carries the epithet, "Sadly missed by devoted wife, children". Edward John Richards* , Private, [25434], 15th Bn., Notts and Derby (Sherwood Foresters) Regiment Edward's birth was registered in 1897, 2nd quarter at Wem. [England & Wales, Civil Registration Birth Index, 1837-1915] The 1901 Census shows him living at 95, Copenhagen St., Islington, London with his parents, Edward J. & Clara Richards; his birthplace is given as Newtown. There is also a sister, Victoria, born in Islington. The father was a stationery engine driver who was born in Newtown, Shropshire, his mother was born in Loppington. Clara Smith and Edward Richards were married on 29 December 1895 in Wem. The 1911 Census shows that the family has moved to 7 North Road, Holmewood near Chesterfield. The father is now a colliery stocker, his birthplace is now given as Northwood. Edward is working as a Colliery Pony Driver (Below). There is a boarder, William Hewitt, who is also a colliery stoker. On 14 January 1915, Edward's Short Service Attestation records that he enlisted in the Bantam Battalion of the Sherwood Foresters. He is described as 5'2", living at 141, Highfields Hall, Wingfield, Chesterfield, Derbyshire, and working as a colliery brakesman. He was posted to France and arrived in Etaples on 23 March 1916; he he was reported as killed on 20 July 1916 and is is commemorated on the Theipval Memorial [Pier and Face 10 C 10 D and 11 A], Somme, France. He is also commemorated on the North Wingfield Memorial, Derbyshire, England. Additional information on the CWGC website describes him as the son of Edward John and Clara Richards, of 141, Highfields, North Wingfield, Chesterfield. Pension records name Clara Richards as sole legatee, her husband dying in 1919. William Rogerson*, Private, [23699], 7th Bn., King's Shropshire Light Infantry William was baptised on 20th February 1883 at Wem Parish Church. His birth was also registered in 1883 and his mother's maiden name recorded as Huxley. [Shropshire BMD] The 1891 Census records him living with his parents, John & Eliza Rogerson, at 93, New St., Wem, with siblings: Emma, Isaac, Agnes, Harold, Helen and George. All the children were born in Wem; their mother was born in Prees and father in Edstaston, he is recorded as a general labourer. The 1901 Census records William working as an agricultural labourer on George & Emma Butler's farm; he also lives there. George Butler was born in Woolaere (possibly Ewloe), Flintshire and his wife in Boston, Lincolshire. William enlisted in the KSLI and was recorded as "Killed in Action" on 20th August 1916 and is buried in La Neuville British Cemetery,[II. A. 9] Corbie, Somme, France. CWGC carries the additional information that he was the son of John William & Elizabeth Rogerson, of Wem, Salop. William Harold Ruff*, [Private, 17218], 1st Bn., King's Shropshire Light Infantry William was baptised at Ladywood St. John, Warwickshire on 26 Apr 1893. The 1901 Census records him living with his parents, Richard & Martha Ruff, at 155 King Edwards Rd., Ladywood, Birmingham, with siblings: Richard, Nellie and Phoebe. Their father is a baker born in Stourport Worcs;their mother was born in Birmingham. There is also a domestic servant, Mary Ann Henoughan, at that address. The 1911 Census shows William living at 125, Milcote Road, Bearwood, Smethwick. Also present are his mother, Martha, with her widowed sister Sarah Carter Bishop, plus Nellie, is a ledger clerk in a grocery; Phoebe, who works in the warehouse of a brass foundry. William is a domestic groom. The father, Richard Ruff, is living as a boarder at New Mill House, Wem, and working as a corn miller. William enlisted in the KSLI at Wem; his place of residence is given as Smethwick. He was wounded on 5th January 1916 [Listed on the Casualty List issued by the War Office (Expeditionary Force) - 14th January 1916]. He was entitled to wear a "Wound Stripe" as authorised under Army Order 204 of the 6th July 1916. Again wounded in 1918, the War Office Daily List No. 5483, 4th February 1918, reported that he died of his wounds on 2nd January 1918; he died at home in Smethwick. His body is interred in Birmingham Cemetery (Key Hill), [Screen Wall K. 55] Warwickshire. John Charles Ryder, Private, [22235], 7th Bn., King's Shropshire Light Infantry John’s birth was registered at Wem in 1885; his mother’s maiden name is given as Roberts. [Shropshire BMD] The 1891 Census records him living with his parents, John & Eliza Ryder, in Barker's Green, Wem, along with his siblings: Mabel and William. The father is a bricklayer's labourer and was born in Weston and their mother was born in Worthen. None of the siblings are present in the household during the 1901 Census; two boarders take their places. The 1911 Census records John living as a boarder at 12 Wrekin Terrace, St Michaels St., Shrewsbury; he is working as a maltster. The head of the household is George Powell, who is a foreman platelayer. John enlisted in the KLSI at Shrewsbury though at one point he is reported as attached to the 19th Bn., the King's (Liverpool Regiment). He was killed in action on 30th July 1916. CWGC records his commemoration on the Thiepval Memorial, [Pier and Face 12 A. and 12 D.] Somme, France. Percy Simmonds, Private, [25262c, 1st Bn., King's Shropshire Light Infantry Shropshire BMD records an entry for Parcy Simmon(d)s in 1897 at Market Drayton. The 1911 Census records him living at Shakeford Cottage, Hinstock, Market Drayton, Salop. The householder is John Anslow from Manchester. Percy is ‘at school’ and classified as a visitor. Percy enlisted in the KSLI at Wem and died on 22nd August 1918, aged 20 years, and is buried at Longuenesse (St. Omer) Souvenir Cemetery, [V. D. 87] Pas de Calais, France. His birthplace is recorded as Cheswardine, as in the 1911 Census. The CWGC provides the additional information that he was the nephew of Mrs. Brookfield, of 3, Mine Cottages, Clive, Grinshill, Shrewsbury and that the personal Inscription on his gravestone is “He Who Sacrifice His Life Is Worthy Of Remembrance”. George Josiah Smith, Serjeant, [7013], 5th Bn., King's Shropshire Light Infantry George’s birth was registered in 1882 at Wem; his mother’s maiden name was given as Hughes. [Shropshire BMD] His baptism was recorded as on 26th March 1882 at Clives; his parents were identified as Thomas & Mary Smith. [England & Wales, Civil Registration Birth Index, 1837-1915] The 1881 Census records Thomas & Mary Smith living at the Beer House in Yorton. Thomas was born in Clive though other sources quote Margam, Glamorganshire, and is working as a stonemason; Mary is recorded as being born in Newtown, Montgomeryshire. The 1891 Census shows that George was living at the Railway Inn, (Yorton), Clive with his mother Mary Smith, where she was publican and grocer. She is now a widower and was born in Mochdre Montgomeryshire. George’s siblings: Thomas, Mary, Edith and Charlotte were also at that address, as well as a lodger Arthur Griffiths, who was working as a porter. Thomas was an apprentice carpenter in Clive. The 1901 Census records George living at the Railway Inn in Yorton, where is mother is the landlord. Thomas is also there and both he and George are carpenters and joiners; their sister Charlotte is a schoolteacher. Also at that address are: Mary Dytor, a servant, and Fred Harley, a blacksmith. In 1902, second quarter, George married Florence Bradley, born in Lilleshall, Shropshire, and the daughter of Francis, a coal chartermaster and Sarah Bradley, born in Wrockwardine, Shropshire. The marriage took place in Wem. [England & Wales, Civil Registration Marriage Index, 1837-1915] Their son, Edward Eric Smith, was born in 1905. The 1911 Census shows George & Florence Smith plus son, Eric, living with his mother-in-law, Sarah Bradley at 17, Station Road, Wem; he is working as a joiner and builder. UK, Railway Employment Records, 1833-1956 (12 March 1914) lists George as working on the London and North Eastern Railway as a joiner. His referees include: Mr E. Haynes, Builder, Moss Side Manchester, and Mr Jervis, Builder, Wem. George enlisted in the KSLI at Shrewsbury. Initially he was reported as "Missing" on the Casualty List issued by the War Office from 3 October 1915, then reported as "Killed in Action" on 25 September 1915. He is commemorated on the Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial, [Panel 47 and 49] Ypres, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium. Philip Edward Smith*, Private, [200995] 1/4th Bn., King'd Shropshire Light Infantry Phillip's birth was registered at Wem in 1879; his mother’s maiden name is given as Higgins. [Shropshire BMD] The 1881 Census records him living with his parents, Richard & Amelia Smith, in New Street, Wem, and his cousin Eliza Furber, who is a waitress. His father was born in Little Broughton, Shropshire; his mother is a dressmaker, born in Wem. The 1891 Census reports that Richard Smith is now a widower and still working as a general labourer but the record now reports him as born in Clunberry. They are living at 30, New Street and Phillip's younger brother is present. The 1911 Census shows that Phillip is now living with his wife, Edith Mary, at 10 The Armoury, Wenlock Road, London Road, Shrewsbury, and working as an agent for an insurance company (Prudential). The Shropshire BMD records the registration of Edith's birth in 1882 at Atcham St. Mary’s, Shrewsbury; her mother’s maiden name is given as Paddock. Two children were born, Sybil in 1911 and Robert Sydney in 1915; both were registered at Atcham St. Mary's, Shrewsbury. [Shropshire BMD[ Phillip enlisted in the KSLI and died on 30 December 1917, aged 36 years; he is commemorated on the Thiepval Memorial, [Pier and Face 12 A and 12 D] Somme, France. Military records also mention an attachment to the 11th Battalion and provide the additional information that he was the son of the late Mr. and Mrs. Richard Smith; husband of Edith Mary Williams (formerly Smith), of The Laundry, Weston-under-Lizard, Shifnal, Salop. Albert Henry Stinchcombe, Corporal, [200105], 1st/4th Bn., King's Shropshire Light Infantry Born: 1892, Whitchurch, Shropshire Enlisted: Wem, Shropshire Died: Wednesday 16 January 1918, aged 26 Cemetery: Mont Huon Military Cemetery, Le Treport, Seine-Maritime, France [Grave or Reference Panel Number: V.F.35] Theatre of War: France & Flanders, died of wounds. Tom Vaughan*, Corporal. [1286], Royal Field Artillery Tom's birth was registered in 1895 at Wem; his mother’s maiden name was given as Jones. [Shropshire BMD] His parents were Sarah Ann Jones and Charles Vaughan, who were married at Oswestry in 1882, 2nd quarter. [England & Wales, Civil Registration Marriage Index, 1837-1915] The 1911 Census shows him living with his parents in Tilley Green, Wem; his occupation is given as painter. His father's occupation is given as bricklayer's assistant and he was born in Llansillen, Denbighshire; his mother was born in Great Ness, Salop. Tom’s birthplace is given as Baschurch, the birthplaces of his elder brother George and younger sister Nellie are given as Wem. Tom enlisted January 1915 in the RFA, initially he was a gunner (equivalent to a private), then a bombardier (equivalent to a lance corporal) and finally a corporal. Around the beginning of 1916 he became active, i.e. with the Field Force. In August 1918 he was treated for "Inflammation of connective tissue, fourth, right finger". After 18 days, he was discharged back to duty. His death occurred on 25th February 1919. Military records record that he was attached to CRE (Commanding Royal Engineers); his denomination as Church of England and the identity of his parents as William and Sarah Vaughan, of Prees Lower Heath, Whitchurch, Salop. He is buried in the St. Pierre Cemetery, [XIV G. 4] Amiens, Somme, France with "Abide with Me. Fast Falls the Eventide." inscribed on his tombstone. C. Watkins James Webb, Driver, [171012] Royal Horse Artillery and Royal Field Artillery, 66th Div. Ammunition Coy. James’ birth was registered at Wem in 1883, third quarter. [England & Wales, Civil Registration Birth Index, 1837-1915] The 1891 Census records him living in Back Lane, Prees with his grandfather, Michael Webb, an agricultural labourer who was born in Balahanise (possibly Ballyhaunis), Mayo, Ireland. The 1901 Census shows him still living with his grandfather; James is now a general labourer. In 1907, James married Martha Crowther at Loppington; Martha was born in Lee Brockhurst and had worked for the Rodenhurst family as a general domestic servant. Rodenhurst was a groom and cow dealer. The 1911 Census records them living at Hill Cop Bank, Wem. James is now a groom and they have a daughter, Gladys Mary. Military records show him both as a driver then a gunner. His death is recorded on 21 December 1917 at the Newport Section of the 3rd Western General Hospital, Cardiff. Some records also mention Nantwich Hospital. He is buried in Fauls (Holy Immanuel) Churchyard, England; his grave can be found on the east side of the church with "Faithful Unto Death" inscribed on the tombstone. James is identified as the husband of M. Webb, of Hill Cop Bank, Wem, Salop. Pension Records show that there were three children: Gladys, James and Arthur. Owen Edward Whitney, Corporal, [42108], 64th Coy., Machine Gun Corps (Infantry); formerly [24317], King's Shropshire Light Infantry Born: Moreton Corbet, Shropshire Enlisted: Wem, Shropshire Died: Thursday 20 September 1917 Cemetery: Tyne Cot Cemetery, Zonnerbeke, West Vlaanderen, Belgium [Grave or Reference Panel Number: LIX. E. 3] Theatre of War: France & Flanders, killed in action. Frank Williams, MM, Private, [10704], 5th & 7th Bn., King's Shropshire Light Infantry Frank's birth was registered at Wem in 1889, 2nd quarter. [England & Wales, Civil Registration Birth Index, 1837-1915] The 1901 Census shows him living in Barker's Green, Wem with his parents, George & Rose Williams; there are three younger siblings: Ellen, Thomas and Fanny. George was a railway platelayer and born in Wem; his mother was born in Pitchford, Shropshire. The 1911 Census records that the family are living at 8, Barker's Green. George is now a railway labourer, Frank and Thomas are farm labourers. Ellen is no longer present. Frank enlisted in the KSLI and by 1915 he was part of the 7th Battalion, and is listed as wounded on the Casualty List issued by the War Office on 20 August 1915. Two years later, on 10 April 1917, he is reported to have died of his wounds. He is interred in the Duisans British Cemetery, [III G 24] Etrun, Pas de Calais, France. CWGC reports that he was the son of George & Rose Williams of 8, Barker's Green, Wem, Shropshire and that the inscription on his tombstone reads, "Fondly Remembered By All At Home". The CWGC also records that he was awarded the Military Medal. Battle of Arras - The War Diary of the 7th Battalion, KLSI, reported heavy casualties for the period 9-14 April 1917: Officers: 6 wounded (2nd Lts: J. Fowns, SC Hopkins, TH Mattey, A Robinson, OF St. John and DW Wilmott) and one gassed (2nd Lt GL Davis); Other Ranks: 22 Killed, 131 Wounded, 5 Missing. Prisoners Taken: 4 Officers and 156 Other Ranks. Trophies: One Battery 4.2 Howitzers; 1 Heavy Gun, (probably 59") dismantled and one machine gun. Battles Of Arras - First Battle Of The Scarpe – 9 April 1917 The location was Tilloy-les-Mofflaines. It was an allied victory, part of a large allied offensive to break through German front lines and attack reserves of troops and materials. The primary objective on the first day of the offensive was Observation Ridge, north of the Cambrai - Arras road. The weather was bad: sleet, snow, and strong winds. Thomas Richard Williams*, Corporal, [7006], 'A' Coy. 5th Bn., King's Shropshire Light Infantry Thomas' birth was registered in 1886, first quarter. [England & Wales, Civil Registration Birth Index, 1837-1915] The 1891 Census records him living at Union Cottage, 13, Love Lane, Wem, with his parents: Richard Williams, who is a coachman born in Buckley, Shropshire, and Anne, who was born in Wem. There are four older siblings: Annie, Sarah, John and Mary, plus two younger ones: Peter and Alice. The 1901 Census shows that the family have moved to 12, Wemsbrook, Wem. Richard Williams is now described as a coachman and gardener. Sarah and John are no longer listed. Annie is a dressmaker and Thomas is an errand boy for a bookshop. The 1911 Census shows that Richard Williams is now a widower and Annie is acting as the housekeeper. Thomas is a carpenter and is now recorded as being born in Tilley. Thomas reached the rank of corporal in the KSLI but “died of wounds” on 14 July 1915, His father is listed as his legatee. Thomas is commemorated on the Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial [Panels 47 & 49], Ypres, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium. John Wright, Private, [6862], 2nd Bn., King's Shropshire Light Infantry John's birth was registered in 1878, first quarter. [England & Wales, Civil Registration Birth Index, 1837-1915] The Shropshire BMD identifies the place of registration as Madeley and his mother’s maiden name as Roe. Mary Roes was the daughter of John & Ann Roe of Coalbrookdale. John Roe was a sawyer. The 1881 Census shows John living with his parents, Charles & Mary Wright at the Owens Building in Madeley. Charles was born in Dawley and was a scalesman in in iron warehouse; Mary was born in Madeley as were John’s siblings; Harriet, Fanny and George. The 1891 Census shows that the family are now living in Paradise, Madeley. Charles is now a warehouse labourer. John’s birthplace is now narrowed down to Coalbrookdale. On 11 February 1907, John married Elizabeth Dyer in Knowbury, Shropshire. [England, Select Marriages, 1538–1973] The 1911 Census records John & Elizabeth living at 1 Old Wynd, Coalbrookdale. John is an iron moulder. There is also a lodger sharing the house, John Poole, a labourer at Coalbrooke Ironworks. John was killed in action on 11 March 1915. He is commemorated at the Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial, [Panel 47 & 49] Ypres, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium. CWGC carries the additional information that he was the son of the late Charles & Mary Wright; husband of Elizabeth Breakwell (formerly Wright), of Hill Top, Clee Hill, Ludlow, Salop. Fred Cecil Wycherley, Private, [6076], 'A' Coy. 2nd Bn., King's Shropshire Light Infantry Fred's birth was registered in 1894 at Wem; his mother's maiden name being given as Leech. [Shropshire BMD] It was registered in the last quarter of the year. [England & Wales, Civil Registration Birth Index, 1837-1915] Local sources say that he was born on 5th November 1894 at Hough Cottages, Wem. The 1901 Census shows him living at 12, Mill St., Wem, with his mother Jane Wycherley, who was born in Stanton. His siblings: Robert, Florence and Gladys are also present. Fred was educated at the Church of England Junior School in Noble Street. The 1911 Census finds him at 40, Noble St., Wem, with his parents Joseph & Jane Wycherley; his father is a mail driver and was born in Loppington. Fred’d siblings: Gertrude, Robert, Florence, Gladys, Frances, Violet and Doris are also present and were all born in Wem, with the exception of Gertrude, who was born in Blackpool, Lancashire. Gertrude is an assistant at a seed merchants; Robert is a tanner; and Florence is a domestic servant. Fred is a butcher and was employed by Dawes, the pork butchers, at 56 High Street. He joined the King's Shropshire Light Infantry as a special reserve in 1912. He was mobilised on 8th August 1914 and landed in France on 21st December and attached to the 3rd Battalion KSLI. The battalion saw action in Belgium at the battle of Ypres. Fred was reported 'killed’ on 14th January 1915, while attached to A Company, 2nd Battalion. He is commemorated on the Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial, [Panels 47 & 49] Ypres, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium. [CWGC] Additionally on the website, he is recorded as the son of Joseph and Jane Wycherley, of 56A, Noble St., Wem, Salop. Robert Henry Wycherley, Lance Corporal, [200094], 1st/4th Bn., King's Shropshire Light Infantry Born: Wem, Shropshire. Enlisted: Wem, Shropshire Died: Friday 19 April 1918, aged 27 Cemetery: Tyne Cot Memorial, Zonnerbeke, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium [Grave or Reference Panel Number: Panel 112 to 113] Theatre of War: France & Flanders, killed in action. *Member of the Loyal Refuge of Hope Lodge [The Oddfellows], Wem. Please click on the names written in red for further information about those individuals.