Age Shall Not Weary Them

The Men of East Elgin Who Made The Supreme Sacrifice
in the First Great War, 1914 – 1918

James L. McCallum

© Ontario Genealogical Society, Elgin County Branch – September 2008

Published by Ontario Genealogical Society, Elgin County Branch,

All rights reserved.  No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form, or by any means – electronic, mechanical, photocopying, microform reproduction, recording, or otherwise – without the prior written permission of the publisher.

They shall grow not old, as we who are left grow old
Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn
At the going down of the sun, and in the morning
We will remember them  – Laurence Binyon

Introduction
The concept for this publication was inspired by similar works compiled by the Southwold Township Veterans Committee and Harley Lashbrook of West Lorne.  On a more personal level, as a child living in Malahide Township, I remember vividly walking by the Aylmer cenotaph on the way to the Post Office with my mother and grandfather, and we always seemed to pause as we passed by.  My grandfather would explain to me that those were the names of the men who gave their lives during the two world wars. As an adult, returning to my home town as often as I could to attend Remembrance Day services at the cenotaph, I became aware of the fact that even though we were there to remember, the identity of the men from the First Great War had become clouded through time.  Except for later generations of family members who might be aware that a relative’s name was inscribed on the cenotaph, I expect the majority of Aylmer and Malahide citizens are unaware of who these men were and what their family connections are.  That statement is not meant to imply that anyone has forgotten the sacrifice these men made, it is simply a fact that over ninety years later there are few living persons who would have remembered these men personally.

The scope of this project is to include every man who lost his life during the First Great War with a connection to the Town of Aylmer, and the Townships of Malahide, Bayham and South Dorchester.  To define “connection”, I have included men who were born in the above places but had moved away prior to enlisting, men who were living there upon enlistment, and several others who had family connections reaching back a generation further.  My starting point was the names inscribed on the cenotaphs in Aylmer, Port Burwell, Vienna, and the Richmond West Veteran’s Memorial.  I obtained a great many more names from indexes to local newspapers which reported deaths of men with connections to the area.

My goal was to identify who each man was by viewing their Attestation Paper, locating their registration of birth,  finding a newspaper article about their death and including a photograph. Because my primary interest is genealogy and this publication is being prepared for the Elgin County Branch of the Ontario Genealogical Society, I also wanted to include some genealogical and biographical material about the family’s roots and the relatives left behind to mourn the sacrifice made by their loved one.  Therefore you will find information about the parents of these men, in most cases an obituary, and brief information on their siblings.  Despite diligent research, information on some families was not as plentiful as others.

Several articles of interest were found in the Aylmer Express dealing with the recruitment of men at the beginning of the war, the celebration of the armistice and the erection of the War Memorial in Aylmer.  I have also included letters from the men overseas that were published in the newspaper. Unfortunately, photographs for many of the men could not be found.

As with any publication of this nature, there are bound to be errors and omissions, and I apologize if anyone was missed.  

This is the first in a planned four volume set.  The remaining three publications will attempt to list all the men and women who served in the First Great War from the above municipalities, with a volume each for (1) Aylmer & Malahide, (2) Springfield & South Dorchester, and (3) Bayham.

I am indebted to Ian Raven and the staff of the Elgin Military Museum in St. Thomas for their assistance in locating files and pictures of these men, and to Pat Temple, an enthusiastic researcher from the Southwold Veterans Committee whose interest, advice and research assistance for my project has been invaluable. Much of my research was conducted at the St. Thomas Public Library, the Aylmer Public Library, and the Elgin County Archives.  Appreciation is given to the Elgin County Archives for permission to use several pictures from the Scott-Sefton Collection.  I would also like to thank each and every one who supplied information and pictures for this publication.

Abbreviations: CEF – Canadian Expeditionary Forces; CFA – Canadian Field Artillery – COTC – Canadian Officer Training Corps; CAMC – Canadian Army Medical Corps

CONTENTS

    • Brief History of Recruiting in Elgin & the 91st Battalion
    • Recruiting in Aylmer (articles in the Aylmer Express)
    • Aylmer Celebrates the Armistice
    • Aylmer Erects a War Memorial
    • Springfield Erects a War Memorial
    • Names from the Aylmer Cenotaph
    • Names from the Port Burwell Cenotaph
    • Names from the Vienna Cenotaph
    • Names from the Richmond West Cemetery Memorial
    • Names found in the Aylmer Express

Names found in other sources

Brief History of Recruiting in Elgin & the 91st Battalion
When Britain declared war on Germany on August 4, 1914, Elgin County responded ten days later when three members of the 25th Elgin Regiment enlisted in the signal section of the 1st Canadian Division.  Then on August 22, one hundred men from Elgin County, including sixty one from the 25th Regiment went to Valcartier to join the 1st Battalion C.E.F.  They went overseas on October 7, 1914.

Recruiting in Elgin County continued with 200 men sent to the 18th Battalion C.E.F. and 256 men to the 33rd Battalion C.E.F

Elgin County’s own overseas battalion was formed on October 25, 1915.  Lt.-Col. Green was placed in command of the 91st Battalion C.E.F., and trained 940 men for overseas service.  The battalion received its colours on May 24, 1916 after a parade through St. Thomas, ending at Pinafore Park with a huge crowd attending the ceremony.

A month later on June 25, 1916, the 91st Battalion was dispatched overseas after a march down Talbot Street in St. Thomas, witnessed by a crowd of 20,000 citizens.  They went by train to Halifax where they sailed on the ship Olympic on June 28, arriving in Liverpool on July 5.  After ten days at Otterpool Camp, the Battalion was transferred to the 3rd Canadian Training Brigade and split up in order to provide reinforcements for more than twenty three other units on the battlefield.   It was standard policy by this time for county regiments to divide their recruits among other units whose numbers had been depleted of manpower.

While the 91st Battalion was in Europe, recruiting continued in Elgin, resulting in over 2,400 men from the county volunteering for service during the course of the war.

Source: The Elgins, by Capt. L. A. Curchin & Lieut. B. D. Sim, Regiment Historian, 1977

Recruiting in Aylmer
Several articles appeared in the Aylmer Express, reporting on the recruiting process from that area.  They are presented here in chronological order.

The Aylmer Express, September 10, 1914:

FIRST RECRUIT DRILL OF THE 30TH BATTERY
Will be Tomorrow Night at 7:30 p.m.
Names are Coming in Fast.  Get Your Name in Before Tomorrow Night
Have you joined the 30th Battery?  This is the question for every able bodied man in East Elgin. This is our own militia unit and is being raised by the people of this county for the defense of our own borders. No man who values his home or his loved ones, who believes in his country or honors his King will refuse to join.  The task before our own people here in Canada and possibly in Elgin may be very serious before this war is over.  If our shores were invaded by a hostile army every man would be a soldier if he could; but he would be no use without training.  This is the point.  The time to get the training is now. The 30th Battery Canadian Field Artillery requires at once one hundred men. The battery roll is at Mr. Wm. Warnock’s office in Aylmer. The young men of East Elgin should enlist. They should do it at once.

The first recruit drill will be held at 7:30 p.m., Friday, Sept. 11. The men will form up on Talbot St. in front of the new post office. The elements of infantry drill will be taught. Every man should be on hand for the first drill.  Lt.-Col. Walter James Brown will be in charge.

So far as Canadians and Britishers are concerned military service is no longer optional.  It is a duty that no true man will shirk.  Only those who have the necessary physical qualifications will be asked to go on duty; but the obligation of working and fighting for our country is on the shoulders of every man.  No one is exempt.  Every man in Canada between 18 and 60 may be called if required.  It would be an outrage if Canadians were forced to use the ballot to fill the ranks of the militia.  Let us have volunteers.  This is your opportunity. The Canadian Militia is a home defense force, organized, trained and maintained for the defense of our own homes and loved one. Every man should be a citizen soldier.  Will you?

The Aylmer Express, October 8, 1914

THE 30TH BATTERY
Busy Drilling
The 30th Battery Canadian Field Artillery has been drilling two nights a week for nearly a month and has apparently made excellent progress. There is still room for a number of recruits. There seems to be a misunderstanding about enlisting.  Let it be understood once and for all that the 30th Battery is a home defense unit, and no member of the Battery can be sent overseas unless he volunteers for this special service. The Battery with all other Militia units is for the defense of Canada only. The age limits are 18 to 60; but a few boys will be accepted to act as signallers, rangetakers, trumpeters, etc.  The term of enlistment is for three years unless discharged or resignation is accepted before the term expires.

The Battery has been taught the elements of infantry drill and are now learning dismounted artillery drill without arms.  As soon as rifles are issued, rifle drill and shooting will be taught.  Field artillery men are expected to know foot drill, mounted drill, rifle shooting and gunnery and certain forms of field engineering.  It is hoped that arrangements may be made so lectures, rifle shooting and physical drill and exercises may be undertaken during the winter months in a suitable building.

The Battery needs 28 drivers who will bring at least two horses each. The horses will be needed only for annual training or for field days.  The pay for drivers is about $1 a day and for the horses $1.25 each with everything for men and horses found. This means that each driver will receive about $56 for himself and team for the sixteen days camp once a year.  Most battery drivers consider this “money found” as the camps are held during the seasons when work is slack on the farms.  Most batteries have more men and horses offering than they can take to camp.  The drivers who enlist now will be given the first chance. Mr. William Warnock has the Service Roll and is authorized to take enrollments.

The Aylmer Express, November 19, 1914:

OFF FOR THE FRONT
Lieutenant Clarke had no difficulty in recruiting the quota of twenty assigned Aylmer for the battery of Field Artillery now being mobilized at London. As a matter of fact, several over the number required made application.  One of these, Thomas Randel, of West Lorne, passed the examiner all right, and was a most disappointed young man when he failed to secure his mother’s consent. Two others from Tillsonburg made application, when but one was required for the full compliment, but as they refused to be separated, neither of them were taken.

One of the recruits deserves special mention.  He is Luther Arven Cooper, a sturdy hunter and trapper, 6 feet, 2 inches in height, who started out from McKenzie River, 4000 miles away, determined to serve his country. He made his way from point to point offering himself, only to find there was no place for him, until he reached Aylmer, where he was just in time.  He ran out of funds and notwithstanding the intense cold, rode on the outside of railway coaches as opportunity offered.

The full list is as follows:
Alfred Benson, Aylmer, butcher, single, 30th Battery Canadian Field Artillery

Samuel Horace Hawkins, Aylmer, marble cutter, married, 30th Battery, C.F.A.

Harold Hale, Tillsonburg, farmer

Arthur St. John Wallace, Aylmer, cook and baker, single, Territorial Army service,
18 months, 30th Battery, C.F.A.

Albert Victor Weir, St. Thomas, car inspector, single, Royal Navy, 5 years, 4 months

John Leslie Parker, Aylmer, painter, single, 30th Battery, C.F.A.

Edward Christopher Payton Breay, Aylmer, farmer, single, Officers Training Corps, 2 years

Charles Dingle, Aylmer, shoe cutter, single, 30th Battery, C.F.A.

Reginald John Denton, Aylmer, farmer, single

Harold Duxbury, Springfield, farmer, single

George Albert Morden, Delhi, engineer, single, Sergeant No. 8 Company, 39th Regiment, 3 years

Harry John Richardson, Aylmer, brick layer, married, 30th Battery, C.F.A.

Luther Arven Cooper, McKenzie River, hunter and trapper, single, 10th Westminster Fusileers

Thomas Cornish, St. Thomas, storekeeper, single, 25th Regiment, 1 year

William James Sweeting, Fenwick, carpenter, widower

Sydney Frederick Hudson, Glencoe, undertaker, single, 26th Regiment, Middlesex Light Infantry

Gerald Tighe, Aylmer, farmer, single

Roland Gatward, Aylmer, tailor, single, 30th Battery, C.F.A.

Harry Lucey, St. Thomas, barber, single.

Between 600 and 700 citizens were present when the boys lined up on Talbot street yesterday morning, and rousing cheers were given them, as, headed by the Citizens Band, and followed by the members of the 30th Battery and citizens they marched to the Wabash depot to entrain for London.

While waiting for their train the recruits were addressed by Mayor Wagner, Rev. C. Miles and W. Harold Barnum. The occasion proved a very impressive one, the more so when one loving mother was overcome, in the fear that she might never see her boy again. There were few dry eyes, even one of the speakers finding it impossible to express himself for some moments.

The boys, however, with brave hearts, broke into song, which relieved the tension, were photographed, the hat was passed for their benefit, and they boarded the train amid the cheers and best wishes of some 500 citizens.  Ray Lemon, of Richard’s & Co., gave each of the boys a Rexall Shaving stick before they left.  Lieut. Clarke accompanied them to London.

Fred D. King, W. Harold Barnum and Harold Hambidge accompanied the volunteers as far as St. Thomas, and after leaving Aylmer, the brakeman came to Mr. Barnum and told him they had on board a Belgian soldier who had been a prisoner of the Germans, but had escaped, also a British soldier, Rupert Gilhooley, discharged because no longer physically fit.  Mr. Barnum discovered the Belgian’s name was Albert Kappen, his home was at Alost, and that he had lost everything in the war.  He had a Belgian passport and Belgian identification card, with photo attached. The two were on their way to Detroit.

They came up to the Aylmer volunteers and the Belgian cried, “Vive les Canadiens” and in return three good Canadian cheers were given the Belgian.  Mr. Barnum says he could not speak enough French to find out any further particulars.  Cheers for the volunteers, and the Belgian mentioned, were given by the passengers on board, and the journey to St. Thomas was a very interesting one.

The Aylmer Express, November 26, 1914:

ANOTHER LETTER FROM THE SOLDIERS AT LONDON
London, Nov. 23rd, 1914
The Aylmer Express
Dear Editor –
We thought that we would write you of our experience from Aylmer to London and while in camp. As far as St. Thomas, you have already heard what happened through Harold Barnum, who accompanied us that far.  Nothing happened from there to London, except “Are we downhearted?”  “NO”

On our arrival at the G. T. R. Station here we were met by Lieut.-Col. Brown, and a company of infantry, which escorted us to Queen’s Park. They sang “It’s a long way to Tipperary”, and we finished with “It’s a long way to St. Helena”.  We were taken directly to our barrack-room and only had to wait about one hour for dinner, which was a lunch consisting of a little jam and a couple of slices of “punk”. Some dinner.  

Now we are squared away and everything is running very smooth.  Jack Wallis is a good cook and feeds us very well, there being no fault found with the grub.  We are roused out of bed at 6:30 each morning. Then we make up our cots and sweep out, go out at 7 o’clock for half-hour physical drill, have breakfast at eight, bacon, jam, punk and coffee. From 9 – 10 we have foot drill, then a half-hour rest. Then from 10:30 to 11:30 we get some more. We get dinner at 12:30 which is a change every day. From 2 to 3 o’clock we drill again, then another recess.  Then from 3:30 to 4:30 which is the last drill of the day.  We get our supper at 5 o’clock. Any time after 5 o’clock we can leave the grounds without a pass but we must be in at 9:30.

We were told by an officer it was better to get a pass to 12 o’clock than to go down town, meet a friend and stay out later that 9:30, for that means guard house. The officers are very nice men but we won’t say they are any better than Col. Brown.

Charles Dingle and some of the boys from Aylmer are on fatigue duty toady, the rest will get theirs after awhile. There is about 3 inches of snow here this morning so we did not drill, had lectures by the officers instead.  Our barrack-room is heated with two furnaces, dining room with one.  Off the barrack-room is the shower baths, hot and cold.

The Y.M.C.A. have a canteen where we can buy anything we want. They put on a picture show every night which is free. They also supply writing paper and ink.  If it is not too much trouble to you would you ask the S. O. E. lodge if we could have the old flag from their room?

Thanking you in advance for the space and wishing the Express great prosperity, we remain, THE AYLMER BOYS

Alfred Benson, Harry Richardson (Highland Mary), John Wallis (Head Cook), John Denton, Harold Duxbury, John Parker, Charles Dingle, James Sweeting, Thomas Cornish, George Morden, Samuel Hawkins, E. Breay, Luther Cooper, Harry Lacey, Gerald Tighe, Albert Victor Weir, Sid Hudson, Reuben H. Pope, Roland Gatward, R. H. Brackstone, W. J .Such, G. R. Smith, W. R. Smith, F. Ferris, D. Dunnett, C. Robinson, H. Green.

The Aylmer Express, January 14, 1915:

RECRUITING

For 33rd Battalion, Canadian Expeditionary Force

  1. Recruiting Officer at 25th Regiment Club Rooms, Talbot Street, St. Thomas, Office Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 12: 30 p.m.

2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

from January 11th to January 25th, 1915

  1. Applicants for enlistment will be selected in the following order:
  2. a) unmarried men
  3. b) married men without families
  4. c) married men with families

Unmarried men who are the sole support of their parents, and unmarried men under 21 years of age, must have the written consent of their parents.  Married men must have the written consent of their wives.

  1. Men discharged from any previous contingent, for any reason, are not to be accepted.
  2. Recruits will receive pay $1.00 and field allowance 10c, total $1.10 per diem, from date of attestation, and in addition a subsistence allowance of 75c. per diem, until arrival at place of mobilization.  Recruits will be retained at recruiting centres until orders for mobilization.
  3. Applicants from points out of St. Thomas, who require additional information should write to the Officer Commanding, 25th Regiment, St. Thomas, Ont.

The Aylmer Express, February 25, 1915:

RECRUITS WANTED NOW
Recruits for the 16th Batt. C.F.A., are coming in rather slowly, only five having been accepted up to date.  Several who applied could not pass the examination. Lieut. Clarke, recruiting officer in Aylmer, tells us he required 15 more by noon tomorrow, and we trust there will be a sufficient number of our young men in this vicinity who are loyal enough to make up the full complement by that time.  Your country needs you, boys.  Those who have been accepted are as follows:

Percy Heckford, Springfield, farmer, single, Dorset Territorials

Thomas Edward Robins, Aylmer, farmer, single, 25th Batt., 3 years

Willard Earl West, New Sarum, farmer, single

  1. Berness Williams, Aylmer, machinist, 25th Batt., 3 years

Hughston Clarence Sinclair, Aylmer, cheesemaker, single

The Aylmer Express, December 2, 1915:

AYLMER’S HONOR ROLL
Lieut. Clarke Doing Good Work – 29 Men are Recruited Here

Men who have been enlisted in Aylmer, by Lieut. L. F. Clarke, to date, for the 91st Batt. C.E.F. More men are needed and if anybody can get them it will be Lieut. Clarke.

      1. John Edward Scriver, Aylmer, married, mason, 30th Battery, C.F.A.
      2. Edwin Thomas Turner, Aylmer, single, horseman
      3. Edward William Frank Baker, Aylmer, single, farmer, 30th Battery, C.F.A.
      4. Leman Guy Hawley, Aylmer, married, farmer
      5. Louis Arthur Mann, Aylmer, single, farmer, 30th Battery, C.F.A.
      6. Herbert Clayton Smale, Pt. Burwell, married, fisherman
      7. William George Burtenshall, Pt. Burwell, single, farmer
      8. Percy Goodman Capern, Aylmer, married, farmer
      9. Fred Tomkinson, Aylmer, single, farmer
      10. John Page, Belmont, single, farmer
      11. Henry Warmer, Belmont, single, farmer
      12. John Byrne, Belmont, single, engineers, army service corps
      13. Harold Archer, Belmont, single, farmer
      14. Clarke Joseph Marlatt, Aylmer
      15. Percy William Robert Freeman, Aylmer, single, farmer, 30th Battery, C.F.A.
      16. Oscar Ira Smith Williams, Dunboyne, single, fisherman
      17. Chas. Henry Picknell, Aylmer married, house decorator, 30th Battery, C.F.A.
      18. John Hanson, Aylmer, single, clerk
      19. William James O’Neill, Aylmer, married, egg-tester
      20. Claude Elmer Orton, Bayham, married, blacksmith, 30th Battery, C.F.A.
      21. Gilbert Chute, Aylmer, single, 30th Reg.
      22. Arthur Edward Jennings, St. Thomas, married, laborer
      23. John Johnson, Springfield, single, farmer
      24. William Cameron Armstrong, Pt. Burwell, single, farmer
      25. Elston Bambrick, Aylmer, single, farmer
      26. James Thomas Taylor, Springfield, single, farmer
      27. Gordon Earl Moore, Springfield, single, clerk
      28. William Arthur Thomson, Springfield, single, farmer
      29. George Harold Parkiss, Aylmer, single, farmer

The Aylmer Express, April 13, 1916:

22 RECRUITS FROM AYLMER IN TWO WEEKS’ CAMPAIGN

Following is a list of the recruits signed up for overseas service with the 91st Battalion, from Aylmer, during the past two weeks’ recruiting campaign. During that length of time 229 men offered themselves for their country’s service.  Out of this number 85 could not pass the medical examination, and 144 were successful in getting into the ranks. There are now about 900 men in the 91st Battalion, which is still far from being up to full strength.  The officers are determined not to let the campaign terminate yet, and will put more ginger than ever into their efforts to secure recruits.

The List

Brooks, Roland, Aylmer, single, 30th Battery

Canning, George Whitney, married, 30th Battery

Walker, Harry, Aylmer, married

Ellis, George A., Aylmer, married, 30th Battery

Walker, William Stephen, Aylmer, single, 30th Battery

Cable, Leo Carl, Aylmer, 30th Battery

Blashill, Harry Arthur, Aylmer, married

Griffin, Howard, Aylmer, single

McDonald, John, Aylmer, 30th Battery

Wood, Beverley Edward, Aylmer, single, H. S. Cadets

Haight, Clark L., Aylmer, single, 30th Battery

Vincent, Earl, Aylmer, single, 30th Battery

Wilson, Walter, Aylmer, single, 30th Battery

Haight, Wm. Henry, Aylmer, single, 30th Battery

Benson, Andrew, Aylmer, single

Hawley, Bruce, Dunboyne, single

Wall, Edward, Aylmer, married

Chapman, David J., Aylmer, married

Barker, Albert, Lyons, single

Westbrook, Chas. Henry, Aylmer, single, 30th Battery

Summers, Sidney George, Aylmer, single, 30th Battery

Christie, Alwyne R., Aylmer, married, 30th Battery

The Aylmer Express, June 29, 1916:

THE 91ST (ELGIN’S OWN) IS GONE

The 91st has gone. They left St. Thomas on Sunday on their trip across the Dominion to the seaboard, there to be transported across the Atlantic to England, and finally to take up the sword and do their “bit” to stamp out the accursed militarism of the Hun, that peace once more may reign upon the earth.

Already are the brave boys in khaki missed on the streets of Aylmer, where they were ever welcome, and their weekend visits will no longer be enjoyed in scores of homes in Aylmer and vicinity.  Brave fathers have torn themselves from their wives; sweethearts have bid a fond adieu – and little ones, sons have said goodbye to brave fathers and mothers, and perhaps for the last time.  For the brave men of the 91st are off on a perilous mission. A feeling as of reverence has been cast over the entire county since their departure, for hardly is there a home in the county which is not represented in Elgin’s Own Battalion by a dear one, or at least a very dear friend.

Many of the men said the last farewell in the quietness of their own homes on Friday and Saturday, but on Sunday, as the battalion marched from the barracks to the waiting trains at the M.C.R. station, scores of Aylmer and East Elgin citizens were on hand to give the brave lads a final handshake, and to wish them good luck.

Never in the history of St. Thomas has there been such crowds gathered on the street. Talbot Street was packed with human beings for blocks, and the park at the M.C.R. was crowded with anxious friends and relatives of the departing men.

Promptly at five o’clock the order was given at the barracks for the men to parade to the station. They were all loaded down with their heavy packs, and it was a hot march to the train. Talbot Street was so filled that just an alleway was left for the men to march. Many patriotic scenes were witnessed as the final farewells were said by friends all along the line, and in many instances, marching arm in arm with their loved ones, were elderly ladies hanging on to the strong arms of their sons, staying right beside their boys until the final order to entrain was given. Wives and sweethearts took places right in the ranks beside their loved ones, and paraded to the steps of the cars with them, taking advantage of every last second in parting conversation.

For the most part the vast throng of women who said goodbye did so bravely and with as little demonstration as possible, and not until the trains had pulled out did they give vent to their pent-up feeling and let loose their emotions int ears. There were exceptional cases, however, and some hysterical women had to be cared for by their friends. Fathers were seen to bid goodbye to two, three, and even more children, and maintain a perfect composure until the babe in arms was reached, when the wells of emotion were suddenly given their freedom.

The men from Aylmer and East Elgin for the most part went through this trying, and perhaps the hardest, ordeal they will be called upon to face – that of tearing themselves away from all home connections, with brave hearts and stiff upper lips.  They went away with a cheery smile, confident that they were doing their duty.

They first train was composed of ten Grand Trunk Pacific coaches, and were filled with men of A and B Companies, and moved out at 5:30, with the band playing “Auld Lang Syne”.  The second train, with ten more coaches, carrying C and D Companies, moved out at 6 o’clock. The huge crowd moved silently away after the departure of the last coach, without hurry or excitement, firmly realizing that the fortunes of war will now strike closer home than ever.

The battalion was nearly up to full strength, there being around 1,100 officers and men in the march. The officers are practically all Elgin men, and the men are the pick of the county.

The battalion passed through Toronto on Sunday night en route east. A large crowd greeted each section, which stopped over at the Union Station for a short time to enable the commissary cars to be attached, and the boys were given a rousing send off when the trains pulled out.

Voyage of the 91st

An interesting first-hand account of the voyage of the 91st Battalion overseas is contained in the form of a diary written by Pte. John William Cracknell, a former resident of the Kingsmill area.  Pte. Cracknell was killed in action on September 2, 1918. Details about him will be found later in this publication.

A photo of Pte. Cracknell along with the following caption, appeared in the St. Thomas Journal, August 26, 1916:

WITH THE ELGINS

Pte. J. W. Cracknell, enlisted last September with “The Elgins” and what was afterwards “A’ Company of the 91st Battalion.  He was born in the old land and had been in Canada for five years.  Previous to his enlistment he was employed by farmers near Iona Station.  His widowed mother resides in Tottenham Court, London, England.  He is now with the 12th Reserve Battalion at West Sandling Camp. Pte. Cracknell wrote the diary of the overseas trip of the 91st, which appeared in last Saturday’s Journal.  

The diary referred to above was printed in the August 19, 1916 edition of the Journal:

PTE. CRACKNELL HAS DIARY OF HIS VOYAGE OVERSEAS WITH 91ST

Miss Marie Farrah, Kingsmill, Has Interesting Letter from 91st Soldier

Men Found Time Hanging on Their Hands While Aboard Transport

Kingsmill, Aug. 16 – Letters have been received this week by Miss Marie Farrah, from Pte. J. Cracknell, giving a diary of his voyage.

Troopship Olympic, June 30

“Marie – 

We have been on the boat now about two days.  After arriving in Halifax on June 28, about midnight, we stayed on the train until morning, then we boarded about noon and started to look over the ship.  This is the sister ship to the Titanic.  Is sure some size.  It’s main measurements are 822 feet long, 72 feet wide, height 104 feet from boat deck to keel. The boat deck is the one that the lifeboats are on.  There is another deck above this with a bridge.  No doubt you will be able to form some idea of the size of it from these measurements.  There are four smoke stacks on it and everyone of them is as big as an ordinary silo.  It is about 60 feet from the boat deck to the water level and about forty feet of this canoe is below the water.  By the time we get off this boat we will not have seen one quarter of it.  There are about 7,000 men on the boat, including the crew.  I might say here that I would like to have seen her as a passenger ship. Since being turned into a troopship she has been almost completely remodelled, all the costly fittings have been torn down and all staterooms but a few to accommodate the officers.  The ship is armed, carrying a rapid-firing gun fore and aft, besides a machine gun on the corners of the boat deck.  We had our first meal of hardtack when we came on the boat.  No wonder the government wants every man to have good teeth, until you get used to these biscuits, it is like eating bricks, besides there is scarcely any taste to them.

Our first job after getting on the boat was to find quarters which consist of a couple of hooks screwed into the deck above and a hammock.  We hang from the ceiling in these at night, almost as thick as sardines in a can.  I am on “F” deck. Thursday morning we found ourselves being pulled out of the dock by several tugs and expected we were started on our way.  However, we were mistaken, we just got well out into the harbor and let down anchor. Might say here that there is quite a fleet of cruisers and destroyers in the harbor guarding the shipping. During the evening every man was equipped with a life preserver. There is almost every kind of life-saving apparatus on the ship that you can think of.  It is compulsory for every man to wear his life preserver during the day and have it close to his bed at night.  At night there are scarcely any lights to be seen from the outside of the boat and all portholes are closed, there being a heavy penalty for a man who opens a port hole when the ship is at sea.  Besides this there is a water-tight door about every thirty feet with two sentries on each one, in case of anything happening.  These fellows have to understand the shutting of the bulkheads. About nine o’clock the ship lifted anchor and sailed.

June 30 – Woke up this morning after a fine sleep in an old hammock, went on deck and found the ship going at a reduced speed in a heavy fog, tooting its foghorn every minute to warn other ships that might be near.  At noon the fog lifted and there was nothing to be seen but sky and ocean.  About 3 o’clock today we passed another boat going west, it was right out on the horizon and was scarcely distinguishable to the naked eye.  

July 1 – Somewhere on the Atlantic – The day opened fine and clear but grew foggy about 9 o’clock and remained that way until the afternoon. Everything is going fine and the boys are enjoying themselves very much.  Only a few have been seasick.  There is a swimming pool on the ship amidship, about 35 feet long and 15 feet wide, with a depth of 5 ½ feet of water, not quite as large as the one in the Y.M.C.A. at St. Thomas, but just as good.  It is filled every day from the ocean and a nice plunge in it can be had for the sum of “two bits”, towels included.  The water smarts when it gets into the eyes and it doesn’t taste like strawberry ice cream if you swallow any of it.  I was in the pool last evening and tried my life-preserver, it is absolutely impossible to sink with one of these on and you can turn any way in them you like without fear of sinking.  They are made of cork and cover both sides of the body with a place to put your head through, the shoulders and arms are perfectly free to swim, but for anyone that is a good swimmer they can go faster without them. Met another tramp steamer going west this morning.  Several of the boys reported having seen whales during the afternoon. Might also add that “4″ platoon, “A’ Company, has an apartment all to itself, and the captain complimented us on having and keeping our quarters the cleanest on the boat. Here I might say that the boys have to be on deck every morning for a few hours, while the captain and a few of our own officers inspect the troops’ quarters.  This also holds good concerning the other battalions, which are the 94th, 101st, 104th, 13th Mounted Rifles and an Army Service Corps.  This is an awful lazy and sleepy job on board, nothing to do but a few duties and sleep and eat.  Slept from noon today until five, just in time to get supper.  Relieved Alf. Grogan this evening on Mess Orderly, to get a glimpse of the kitchen.  It beats everything I have ever seen.  In there one almost forgets they are on the boat.  If it wasn’t for the stewards that direct the way in and out one would get completely lost in the kitchen alone. Every way you turn there are huge copper boilers, boiling away to beat the d[evi]l.  No room is wasted in here or in any other part of the boat, and still there is heaps of room to move about. There is a small army of cooks in here. Every way one turns you are met by huge vats, steaming like the deuce, some with tea, others with porridge, and the like.  In one place they were boiling chicken. Some sight, believe me.  Three huge vats filled full and several large baskets as big as an ordinary row boat filled and awaiting their turn in the vats.  I might say that the members of this platoon generally have a feast after “lights out”.  Last night one fellow bought a chicken for 75c, and I added to the banquet with an apple pie, price 25c, made by the ship’s crew. These pies have a crust on them about an inch and a half thick and contain an apple about the size of an ordinary peanut, but for all their size they make pretty good eating.

At the time of writing the evening or sunset services are on. Every night at sunset there are two or three bands out playing and helping to make time pass. We always go below to the strains of one or more bands. And as to sunset I don’t know where you can see a prettier sunset than right out here in the ocean.  It looks swell as the sun sinks lower and lower until at last it looks to be disappearing beneath the sea.  It generally goes down in one big red mass, and most of the boys are on deck to see it and set and to get a breath of the fine salt sea air before going below for the night.  Just a few more notes about the ship before “lights out”. I said in one place that the smoke stacks were as big as silos, since then I have learned that they are between 30 and 40 feet across, and could easily accommodate a train through them.  You can get an idea of their size by comparing them with the Windsor tunnel. I have not seen anything of the engines or boilers yet.  Nobody is allowed down there when the vessel is at sea, except the crew, of course.  I saw Steve a short time ago, the second time I’ve seen him since we came aboard.  He was down there when the boat was in harbor, but can only describe it as being a work of works, nothing but a tremendous mass of machinery and steel work, such as can only be found on the largest boats in the world. There is no less that 159 fire boxes, three to each boiler.  There are some, however, that have only two fireboxes.  Every stoker fires either two or three fires at a time.  It requires a squad of sixty stokers at a time and they work in shifts, same as we do guard, only they have 4 hours on and 8 hours off. This gives you a gang of 180 stokers alone, and there is supposed to be between 35 and 40 engineers on her. These numbers may not be absolutely exact, but they are not far out.  The boat deck is 1,150 feet round, 4 ½ times round is one mile, and remember that you don’t walk the entire length of the ship, either, just 448 feet on the side and 92 feet across.

Well, here I am again, a thousand miles from home and not enough money to buy a ham sandwich. Buy a pair of shoe laces and help a fellow in distress. This is Sunday, but it seems no more like the Sabbath than any other day. The sea is quite choppy and it is drizzling rain, so it makes staying on deck quite miserable. I am on guard today and guarding a door down below. The main duties are to see there is no jamming and no smoking.  Just came off.  Will go on again at three this afternoon.  Boys all happy and contented and making the best of a bad job by staying below playing cards and writing.  It is strictly forbidden to smoke between decks, and smoking on the top deck is only allowed between 6 o’clock in the morning and 9 o’clock at night. Expect to enter the war zone soon.  Heard last night that about 35 feet in the bottom of this boat was full of water. No, it didn’t leak, bu was put there as a ballast.  She has hardly any cargo when working as a troopship outside of the pack of the troops, of course.

Back on deck again. One week ago at this time, 5:30 we left St. Thomas.  Today we are somewhere in the middle of the Atlantic and nearing the British Isles.  The weather has been terrible, most of the day it rained till about three this afternoon, then it stopped, but the sky is still cloudy and the atmosphere is quite cold.  To make things worse the rain has made the deck quite slippery. We had an emergency call this afternoon, it is a precaution in case of fire or any other emergency. The call is sounded all over the ship, and on hearing it every man on deck has to stand fast. The guards on the watertight bulkheads have to close them. They are closed by means of a large wrench which hangs alongside the door.  Once closed the water cannot get into the ship, or rather that section where the doors are closed. Say, we get some meals on this boat, though it has the barracks all beat. The menu for today was: Breakfast – porridge, egg and bacon, coffee. Dinner – Chicken soup, chicken, peas and plum pudding. Supper – maccaroni, cheese, jam, tea, bread, butter, apples and oranges. Some feeds, believe me.  All the bread that is used on the ship is made right here on board.  Have not seen Steve since yesterday.  He is away back in the stern and on “G” deck, one below ours.  The propeller shaft on this boat is said to be 14 feet through, while every link in the chain holding the anchor weighs 60 pounds.  Have not heard the actual weight of the anchor itself.

Somewhere near the war zone on the Atlantic.  Sea quite calm, but sky has been cloudy all day. Think we are somewhere near land. Passed two large sailing vessels today at noon, one going towards Canada and the other going the way we were. Didn’t take us long to catch up and pass them.  When we first saw them they just looked like specks on the horizon.

As we have no escort we have an emergency call almost every day, just to keep us on the alert in case something does happen.  Most of the voyage has been cloudy. Will be glad to see land, getting tired of laying around.  The boys are all confused with the time on this boat. The clock is put on almost every night, as English time is several hours ahead of Canadian time. The Machine Gun Section of the various batteries practised this afternoon by throwing barrels over the stern, waiting until we were about half a mile from them and then opening fire. Don’t think they made a very good showing, as the barrels could only be seen when they came over the crest of the waves.  Evening ended up with the sunset service and two or three bands on deck. Forgot to mention before that the 104th Battalion has a fine band, about 30 players on board. Some band, believe me, when they get going.

July 4 – Somewhere off the Irish Coast. The day opened cloudy and cold and has remained that way all day.  Felt more like the middle of November than midsummer. Woke up this morning to hear some strange sounds going on outside the ship.  On going on deck I soon found the reason.  We were in the war zone and the boat was zigzagging all over. There were no submarines to be seen, but this was a precautionary method.

The guns were all uncovered and prepared for action, while there are extra lookouts all over the vessel. We passed a couple of patrol boats this forenoon, one on the starboard and the other on the port.  Had some more hard-tack at dinner today.  Honestly, I believe they make those biscuits in a foundry, also think they turn out softer stuff in the ordinary foundry that these sea biscuits.  Well we have now got our escort with us, two fast torpedo destroyers.

Thursday, July 5 – Joy!  On going on deck this morning we were going right alongside the coast of Ireland. The morning was fine and that way all day, it has been the best day of the trip. There is pretty scenery on both sides of us, and judging from the number of ships and steamers on either side of us it don’t look as though German submarine warfare is hurting the British shipping much.  We have just finished our last meal on board. The ship is just pulling into dock. Every little steamer we pass gives us a welcome by almost blowing its whistle to pieces. We got off and are loaded on the train. Boys don’t know what to make of these dinky little English trains.  Arrived in camp about 1 o’clock Friday morning. Passed through the suburbs on London but everything was dark.  The street lamps are all shaded and the stations are almost dark. After having a mess of hot skilly this morning went right to bed.

July 6 – Got up this morning about eleven o’clock and ate breakfast, or was it dinner.  Well, here we are in camp, I don’t know the name of the place, but we are about 50 miles from London. The nearest town in Folkstone, which is about four miles.  It is a pretty place around here.  One would never think that about 80 miles from here the fighting is going on.

The Aylmer Express, December 14, 1916:

JAFFA WELL REPRESENTED

Ten Men From That Place Doing Their “Bit” at The Front

– Alfred Wharton, son-in-law of Mr. Doolittle, is a British reservist, and a veteran of five campaigns.  He was severely wounded while fighting on the Somme and at present is in an English hospital.

– Walter Antill, of the 91st Elgin Battalion, was killed in action on the Somme.

– Charles Stokes, of the 33rd Battalion, now working in a hospital in England.

– Wilfred Howse, son of Mr and Mrs Jacob Howse, 91st Battalion, now in the trenches in France

– Harry Eley, of the 70th Battalion, in the trenches in France

– Simon Elgie, son of Mrs. Elgie, enlisted with the 63rd Battery at Guelph, now training in England

– Wm. Hawkins, now serving with a British regiment at the front

– Harley Stafford, son of Neil Stafford, enlisted with the 91st, now in France

– Charles and Guy Haight, sons of George Haight. The former with the 33rd and the latter with the 91st Battalions, now in France

The following article appeared in the St. Thomas Journal, October 7, 1916:

TRINITY CHURCH AYLMER, SENDS 43 MEN TO WAR

Anglican Congregation Makes Notable Contribution to Empire’s Defense

FOUR OF THE 43 ARE KILLED IN ACTION

Aylmer, Oct. 7 – That Trinity church has furnished its full quota of young men for the war goes without saying. There are 43 of them, four of whom have given their lives for the old flag.  On Sunday evening a service is to be held, conducted by the rector, Rev. C. A. Miles, in honor of these grand boys.  The names are written on a framed card and will be unveiled during the service. The three first names are known possibly by all, and the William Harris mentioned was the son of George Harris, at one time a resident of Aylmer and janitor of the church.  He joined a Winnipeg battalion.

Following is the list:

Harry Simpson, Charles Elworthy, Francis H. Ingram (these were killed in action); Alfred Ingram, Edward Breay, Harry Richardson (returned soldier, wounded); Roland Gatword, William Butcher, George Swaddling, Harry Grass (honorably discharged); Verne Mitchell, Robert Brackotone, Frank Pipe, Gilbert Gaskill, Gordon A. Philpot, John Wallace, John Babbitt, Leslie Todman, Wallace Antill, Leonard L. Youell, Harry A. Wrong, Hugh B. Hill, Eric Bingham, Gerald Rundle, James Glover, Edward Bateman, Charles Picknell, Harold Sawyer, Thomas Greig, Harold Whetstone, Robert G. Thompson, F. L. Summers, S. T. Summers, Charles Dingle, Fred Roberts, Henry A. Sykes, Edwin Hatcher, Leopold Jones, Samuel Hawkins, Arthur W. Youell, Wm. Harris (killed in action), and Ray Babbitt.

The Aylmer Express, May 30, 1918:

HIGH SCHOOL HONOR ROLL UNVEILED

Students and Ex-Students of the School, who have Joined the Forces for

Service Overseas are Honored

Prominent Citizens give Splendid Addresses

An event that will long be remembered in the history of the Aylmer High School, was the unveiling of the Honor Roll, which took place on the afternoon of Empire Day, May 23rd.  The large room was completely filled with students of the school, ex-students and relatives and friends of the lads who are now doing their “bit” in the great world war, and some are now asleep in Flanders’ Fields, having made the supreme sacrifice. The room was beautifully decorated with flags, bunting and flowers, and in the centre on the platform was draped the Honor Roll, which contained the names of 99 students and ex-students, 10 of whom have laid down their life for the Empire.  The Honor Roll itself was designed and made by Miss Byron, a member of the staff, and was a work of art, reflecting much credit on the designer.

Principal E. O. Awde was chairman and in his introductory remarks emphasized the fact that although the boys on the Roll had been trained for peace and not for war, during their years at school, yet the principles of justice, heroism and sacrifice had been so deeply implanted in their hearts that they had responded nobly to their country’s call.  He asked that Mr. Rutherford, who for more than thirty years was principal of the school, and knew the boys hose names were on the Honor Roll, and their individual history, to read the names and unveil the roll.  Mr. Rutherford said he was proud of the way the students and ex-students of the school had responded to the call to down the Hun, from the very outbreak of the war. He pointed to the way in which the boys had flocked to the colors from all the seats of learning, universities, colleges and high schools, and said, “Isn’t that just what we would expect, that the intelligence of the country should be the first to see the need?”

During the reading of the names of the ten students who have made the supreme sacrifice the big audience showed their respect by standing.

The Honor Roll itself is about four feet long and 18 inches wide and nicely framed and is headed by a painting.  Each name is on a separate tablet, those deceased being marked by a red circle, and attached to a tinted background, the whole being the work of Miss Byron, one of the staff. The following are the names in alphabetical order:

Capt. Murray Abell, M.D., Lieut. Harry Amoss, B.A., Frank Amoss, Capt. Frank Bennett, M.D., Murray Benner, Alfred Benson, F. Lieut. Donald Benson, Eric Bingham, Kenneth Black, Roy Beaufor, Byron Boyes, Lt.-Col. Walter J. Brown, Trevor Campbell, A. Christie, Lieut. Ewart Christie, Harold Chute, Lieut. Lewis Clark, Earl Cline, Roy Clunas, Harold Cohoon, Alonzo Cook, Cecil Cox, Major Douglas Dunnett, Simeon Elgie, T. Elliott, Roland Eggleton, Douglas Fear, Harry Ford, Homer Haggan, Harold Haggan, Morford Haight, Wilfrid Haines, John Hall, Walter Harris, Hugh Hill, Lieut. G. E. Johnson, Rubert Johnson, Clinton Laidlaw, Alfred Ingram, Leslie James, Verne Laidlaw, Carl Law, Capt. Cecil Learn, M.D., Arthur Mann, Jas. Mann, Beecher Mann, Harold Mason, Norman Miller, M.A., Ph.D., Clifford Mossey, Lieut. Chas. McDermand, Lieut. Stewart McDiarmid, Osgoode McDonald, Capt. Wilfrid McIntosh, M.D., Russell Oriss, Jas. Orton, Claude Orton, Clarence Parker, Lloyd Paupst, Ward Phelps, Ross Pierce, Capt. Rev. Chas. Procunier, Capt. Wm. Procunier, M.D., Lieut. Earl Prowse, Capt. Cecil Rae, M.D., Cecil Raymond, Rene Reavie, Fred Rogers, Donald Ryckman, Huron Sears, Capt. Charles Sinclair, M.D., Hughson Sinclair, Lieut. Kenneth Stratton, Nurse Alice Turner, Capt. Verne Turrill, M.D., Lieut. H. VanPatter, M.A., Bruce VanPatter, Harvey VanSlyke, Grant VanSlyke, Lester Vardon, Capt. Herbert White, M.D., Earl Wilkinson, Lou D. Winder, Richard Wright, Harry M. Wrong, Lieut. Arthur Youell, M.M., Lieut. Leonard Youell, M.C., Andrew Paddon.

Those who have made the supreme sacrifice are: Grant Ballah, John Branion, Orion Garner, Clark Haight, James Hare, Harold Ingram, Edgar Martin, Orlo Pound, Wm. Richardson, Clinton C. E. Thomson.

Rev. Mr. Muttitt in a forceful manner contrasted British and German ideals and compared their success in dealing with Colonial problems, citing the example of British rule in India, Australia, South Africa and Canada, as opposed to German rule in Alsace-Lorraine.

Rev. Mr. Hager spoke of the sacrifices made by the mothers of Canada, who although proud of their brave lads, live in constant dread of evil news.

Rev. Mr. Miles emphasized the early training of the youth and the necessity of living up to the ideals of the British Empire.

Dr. Coll Sinclair, chairman of the High School Board, who has kept in touch with many of those whose name appear on the Honor Roll, and had tried to ascertain the motives which caused the boys to join the colors.  He had found that in most cases it was from a clear sense of duty.  That is the kind of men who must surely win the fight.

Rev. Mr. Moyer expressed his appreciation on being invited to attend the memorable occasion, and although he did not know many of the boys whose names were written on the Roll, he was glad to be present and enjoy the programme.

  1. Harold Barnum, chairman of the Public School Board, very feelingly touched upon the sacrifice made.  He urged upon the present students by those who now sleep in France, the value and necessity of studying history, for from that had evolved the principals for which our soldiers fight and upon which our lives are based.

Flight Sub-Lieut. Kenneth Stratton whose name is on the Honor Roll, and who has served two years in the fighting zone with the British Air Force, at present recuperating with the hope of returning shortly, described the spirit of the boys at the front.  He said they were enjoying life in spite of the mud, but if the folks at home wished to do them a real kindness, they should write as often as possible, for the boys watched the mail closer than they do the cook.

The program was interspersed with choruses by the pupils, a beautiful solo by Mr. A. Ray Lemon, and a most appropriate recitation by Miss Clarisa Miller, a student of the school.  The ceremony was concluded by singing the National Anthem.  The Honor Roll now hangs in the assembly room in the school and will no doubt be added to, as a number of students of this year’s classes have signed up for service this week.

Aylmer Celebrates the Armistice

The Aylmer Express, November 14, 1918:

AYLMER CELEBRATES SIGNING OF ARMISTICE

Whistles Announced Allies Victory at 5 a.m. Monday

Mammoth Parade at 10 o’clock – Kaiser Burned in Effigy

Big Torch Light Procession at Night

Aylmer royally celebrated the signing of the armistice last Monday. The good news reached Aylmer by wire at 3 a.m. and at 5 o’clock it was decided that all the people should know about it, and the big whistle at the Condensor started in to shriek the signal, and from that time until after midnight there was a joyful noise in Aylmer.

Armistice was expected at any time and on Saturday Mayor Wright sent out a proclamation stating that should the news be received early in the morning a grand parade would take place at 10 a.m., and the day would be declared a public holiday.  The proclamation was a good idea for our citizens knew as soon as they heard the whistle what the programme for the day would be.

The town was thrown wide open and everybody enjoyed themselves until far into the night. Whistles shrieked, bells rang, horns blew and the people yelled and cheered, but still the day was spent in a most orderly manner and no accidents occurred.  Those in charge of the day’s programme are to be congratulated for the way everything went off.

Aylmer homes, streets and places of business were gayly decorated with flags and bunting in honor of the glorious victory.  At 10 o’clock the big parade formed up on Talbot street, and headed by the Band, Mayor Wright and member of the council marched around all the main streets.  Mr. John Wilson was in charge of the parade and Messrs. A. H. Backus and Dan McLean were efficient marshalls.  In the parade marched the members of the Aylmer branch of the Great War Veteran’s Assn., many of them war scarred; the Public School bugle band; the Fire Department, with the hose wagon and hook and ladder wagon gayly decorated; decorated motor floats conveying the members of the Red Cross Society, Women’s Institute and Travel Club, our three patriotic societies. The High School students, headed by their teachers, marched in a body, followed by hundreds of citizens on foot.  Then came the automobiles – more than 150 of them, each decorated with flags and bunting. The procession was well over half a mile long and it was a nosy half mile too.

The feature of the parade was a float, from a pole on the back of which hung the form of the late German Kaiser, in effigy, and many a citizen took delight in giving William a kick or a punch is passing. This float was driven by Reeve Oscar McKenney, and seated with him was Marshall Foch, in the person of Councillor J. Cline. Directly behind him sat John Bull and Uncle Sam, in the persons of Morley Whitesides and Earl Peckham, holding the Union Jack and Stars and Stripes. When the parade halted at the park, the Kaiser was burned in effigy, amid deafening cheers. A sign above the Kaiser read “Gott Deserted Me”. Among the streamers in the procession was one most suitable at this time, “Finish the Job, Buy Victory Bonds”.

At the park the big crowd joined in singing the doxology, “Praise God From Whom All Blessing Flow”, and Rev. Charles Miles gave a short thanksgiving prayer for the allies’ victory.

  Aylmer streets were filled with people all day long.  As soon as the news became in Malahide and Bayham, hundreds of citizens came to town and joined in the celebration. During the morning parade there were over 5,000 people in the streets.

In the afternoon a service of prayer and thanksgiving was held in Trinity church.  In the evening another big parade in the form of a torch light procession was held at 8 o’clock, headed by the band, and a number of prominent citizens in burlesque costumes followed by hundreds of citizens, paraded on Talbot and John streets for more than two hours, each one armed with a flaming broom or torch.  A mammoth bonfire was built on the square opposite the post office, and for more than half an hour, sky rockets and fire works were shot off. It was a big day and it was after midnight before things quieted down.

Aylmer Erects a War Memorial

The cenotaph in Aylmer was erected in 1928 to honour the fallen of Aylmer & Malahide. It was completed and unveiled on November 25, 1928, in a ceremony drawing over two thousand people.  Several articles preceding this event appeared in the Aylmer Express, as follows:

The Aylmer Express, March 31, 1927:

EAST ELGIN TO ERECT BEAUTIFUL WAR MEMORIAL IN AYLMER

Funds to be Raised by Public Subscription – Post Office Grounds is to be the site

Major Rev. Bruce Hunter of London, Addresses Enthusiastic Meeting

By a unanimous vote of the citizens of Aylmer and East Elgin who, fairly filled the town hall on Tuesday night, it was decided to proceed with the proposed memorial to be erected here in memory of the men from East Elgin who paid the supreme sacrifice in the Great War.  As was explained by Dr. Coll Sinclair, who moved the resolution, East Elgin had not forgotten her glorious dead, but since the Memorial Hospital project was found to be entirely out of the question some few years ago, there appeared to be no individuals or group to bring the memorial question again before the citizens.  He highly commended the men of the Canadian Legion, who are decidedly anxious to honor their fallen comrades, for again bringing the memorial before the people.  The motion was seconded by Mr. G. R. Christie.

Rev. R. D. Hamilton, the president of the provisional memorial committee, was chairman, and in a few remarks explained the object of the meeting, to settle the question of a memorial to perpetuate the memory of the lads from East Elgin who are sleeping in Flanders Fields.  In this the chairman spoke feelingly for his own son is among those laid to rest in a cemetery in Flanders.

Mr. Fenton S. Fansher in a stirring address, reviewed the history of Great Britain and her colonies.  How she has been the greatest christianizing force and the greatest civilizing force the world has ever seen. All people who have come under her flag have benefitted and have grown into independent nations, but bound to the motherland by ties which can never be broken.  These ties are now stronger than ever because from all her colonies lie men in the fields of Flanders under thousands of crosses, side by side.  Men of Canada have written history which can never be effaced.  Mr. Fansher said he believed every man and woman has in his heart a memorial to these glorious dead and now that the project is launched, there will be no trouble to erect a visible one of which this county may be proud.

The address of the evening was given by Major Rev. Bruce Hunter, of the Metropolitan United Church, London, and his remarks were the more appreciated because he has been ill and against doctor’s advice had come to Aylmer. This was his first visit here and when he thought of the sacrifice made by Canadian soldiers in France, it needed more than a sore throat or swollen head to keep him away.  He is interested in the men who bled and died for the liberty of the world, and in the men who have come bac.  He said he was surprised that the people’s memories are so short, and felt humiliated and ashamed at the indifference of the citizens of Canada toward the sacrifices made in the war. He congratulated East Elgin upon its determination to commemorate the memory of those who fell.  Major Hunter was Chaplain with the Canadians overseas for four years and was in a reminiscent mood, taking his audience with the fighting men to England, and then tot he front-line trenches, refreshing their memories of the ten great battles in which the Canadians wrote history and many times saved the day for the British Empire.  Because of duty they held the line.  He described the hardships they endured and referred to many touching scenes he encountered while attending to the dying, of the hundreds of messages he wrote for dying men, who made the great sacrifice for their loved ones at home.  Major Hunter said they called him a militarist in London.  He believes in three lines of defense. First the spirit of brotherhood to make war impossible, second, a Board of arbitration such as the League of Nations, and lastly, defense by military power.  As all other returned men he hates war but should Great Britain again be threatened he would volunteer at once and sacrifice himself rather than have any outlaw nation treat his wife and children as did the Germans treat the Belgians.

  1. E. Armstrong, secretary of the provisional committee, at some detail explained the character of the proposed memorial, mentioned the location, etc. The Canadian Legion, who have the memorial on their hearts had secured several plans and prices.  The proposed site is in Aylmer, the only town in East Elgin, and on the Post Office property, just east of the Post Office building, where the gun is at present situated. A memorial on this location would be the only one facing No. 3 Highway from Windsor to Niagara Falls, and every tourist would have something to remember Elgin County by.

A very fine memorial is one of solid grey granite, with two bronze tablets inset for the 48 names of the men from East Elgin whose memories are to be commemorated, with a bronze figure of a Canadian soldier 6 feet, 6 inches in height. This monument would be in four complete parts and would cost $8,000.  The committee had other plans and designs of less cost, and the style of memorial could be chosen later. The provisional committee is composed of Mayor Davis, Percy Crawford, president of the Legion, Ben Martin, Rev. R. D. Hamilton, H. E. Armstrong, Rev. Mils and Mrs. T. G. Winder.  It is proposed to organize the entire east portion of the county and to make a complete canvas.  It was mentioned that it would be fine to celebrate July first by unveiling the monument, but it was explained that it takes three months to make and erect the monument and the next best date suggested was Armistice Day and in this year of Jubilee.

Short addresses were also given by Rev. J. S. LaFlair, Rev. Waldemar Williams, Canon Miles and Mayor Davis, who pledged their hearty support.

The High School orchestra played a number of selections which were appreciated.  A solo was well rendered by Mrs. (Dr.) McNiece, and Harry Richardson, a member of the Legion, sang a few of the songs the boys enjoyed overseas, and the men of the Legion joined in the choruses.

The meeting was most enthusiastic and clearly demonstrated that the men of East Elgin who laid down their lives for freedom are not to be forgotten and certainly a suitable memorial is to be erected, and one every citizen will be proud of.

A sketch of the proposed memorial with the following caption appeared in the June 14, 1928 issue:

THE NEW AYLMER – MALAHIDE WAR MEMORIAL

The above photograph was taken from a drawing of the new War Memorial to be erected on the Post Office grounds, Aylmer, by the citizens of Malahide and Aylmer, in memory of the men from these two municipalities who paid the supreme sacrifice during the Great War.  It is to be erected at a cost of $5,000 and the contract has been let to Hutchinson & Peckham, of Aylmer. The entire monument is to be of handsome grey granite. The total height is 13 feet, 6 inches. The figure of the Mourning Mother, carved in relief is 7 feet in height.  On the pedestal on either side of the figure 25 names of the men who fell, are to be engraved. The tomb in front is of the same stone and will be 7 feet long, 4 feet wide, and one foot high.  It is planned to unveil the memorial on Armistice Day.  The committee is anxious that every name that should be on the memorial be in their hands at once and relatives or friends of any men from Aylmer or Malahide, who paid the supreme sacrifice overseas, are asked to make sure that the Aylmer Legion or the Memorial Committee have their names.

The Aylmer Express, September 20, 1928:

FIRST SOD TURNED FOR WAR MEMORIAL

Lord Willingdon Will be Asked to Unveil New Memorial on Armistice Day

The first sod was turned at noon last Thursday for the foundation for the Malahide and Aylmer War Memorial which will be erected on the pretty lawn at the Post Office grounds, Talbot street.  The site is ideal, being in the centre of town and will be surrounded by flower beds and lawn with the town park in the background.  Scores of citizens and the students of the public and high schools were present at the short ceremony. Rev. R. D. Hamilton, chairman of the War Memorial Committee, presided, and in a short address explained the object of the ceremony and particularly welcomed the boys and girls, the future hope of our land.  He rejoiced in the fact that after a year of more of work the committee had reached this point when the first sod was to be turned to erect a beautiful monument to keep in perpetual memory the names of the men from Malahide and Aylmer who died in Flanders Field during the last Great War. The contract for the Memorial was let to the local firm of Hutchinson & Peckham, and the memorial is to be the finest on No. 3 Highway between Windsor and Niagara Falls, to cost some $6,000.  It is to be completed by Armistice Day when the official unveiling will take place and Mr. Hamilton announced that the committee are making every effort fo have Lord Willingdon, Governor General of Canada, present on that occasion to officiate.  Canon Miles, senior pastor in Aylmer, led in prayer, and the first sods were turned by Dr. H. J. Davis, mayor of Aylmer, and H. B. Westover, Reeve of Malahide Township.  “The Maple Leaf” was played by the Citizens’ Band and appropriately concluded the ceremony.  The solid foundation of concrete has been installed and during the next few weeks the Memorial will be erected.

The Aylmer Express, November 8, 1928:

WAR MEMORIAL TO BE UNVEILED SUNDAY NOVEMBER 25

It Is Expected the Lieut.-Governor Will Officiate

A meeting of the Memorial Committee and the Committee of the Canadian Legion was held on Monday evening last to complete final arrangements for the unveiling of the Aylmer and Malahide War Memorial, which was set in position last week and is now complete. It was the regret of the Committee that the unveiling ceremonies could not take place on Armistice Day, next Sunday, November 11th.  It has been found impossible to secure a visit from the Governor-General, who was asked to officiate and it was therefore decided by motion to have the Lieut.-Governor of Ontario officiate at the unveiling on Sunday, November 25th at 3 p.m.  We understand the Sunday Schools of the district will be asked to meet at 2 p.m. on that Sunday afternoon and at 3 p.m. march to the Post Office in a body for the unveiling ceremonies.

The Programme Committee will consist of the following: Rev. R. D. Hamilton, Canon Miles, Mayor Davis and Reeve Westover from the Memorial Committee, and E. W. Haines and P. Crawford, from the Legion. Capt. Haines, in command of D Company of the Elgin Regiment, will arrange for the Guard of Honor.

The purchasing committee were named to inspect the erection of the Memorial and to ask the builders for a ten-year guarantee.  At the unveiling ceremonies, it is expected the Elgin Regiment will attend with their Regimental Band. The Aylmer Citizens’ Band will be there.  The members of the Legion, town and township officials and councillors and every citizen is expected.

The Committee announce that they will gladly receive subscriptions from any who have not yet subscribed and want to have a share in the erection of this handsome memorial.  Those who have not yet paid their subscriptions please do so at once.

The Aylmer Express, November 22, 1918:

THE AYLMER – MALAHIDE WAR MEMORIAL WILL BE UNVEILED THIS SUNDAY

General Armstrong, of London, to Officiate, Assisted by Mrs. Ida Haight, of Aylmer

All Citizens of the Community are Invited

Elgin Regiment, Aylmer and St. Thomas Legions to Attend

On Sunday afternoon next, November 25th, at 3 o’clock, the handsome new memorial erected by the citizens of Aylmer and Malahide in memory of those brave men from these municipalities who paid the supreme sacrifice overseas during the Great War, will be unveiled.  Every citizen is invited to attend and witness this interesting ceremony.  The Elgin Regiment; both the St. Thomas and Aylmer Legions and Auxiliaries, The Elgin Regimental Band, The St. Thomas Pipe Band and the Aylmer Citizens’ Band are expected to be present and assist in the ceremonies. The Sunday Schools of the district are asked to meet early next Sunday to allow all, both old and young, to be present at the unveiling ceremony.

General Armstrong, Officer Commanding Military District No. 1, London, will officiate at the unveiling and he will be assisted by Mrs. Ida Haight, of Aylmer, who will pull the cords, loosing the veil about the monument.  Four of Mrs. Haight’s sons served with the Canadian forces overseas, and two of them died in action.  It is very fitting that she has been chosen to assist. The following is the programme which it is proposed to carry out:

The Guard of Honor will meet General Armstrong and his party at the High School shortly after 2:30 p.m. The Guard will be inspected there and the party will parade east on Talbot street, south on Centre St. to Sydenham; east on Sydenham to John; North on John to Talbot and west on Talbot to the Memorial at the Post Office grounds.

“O Canada” by the Band
Chairman’s Remarks
Greetings by the Mayor and Reeve Address
Unveiling of the Memorial
Last Post, by Bugler
Dipping of the Colours
Reveille by Bugler
“God Save the King” by the Band
Placing of Wreaths
Benediction

The Aylmer Express, November 29, 1928:

COL. WALTER JAMES BROWN DELIVERS A MOST INSPIRING ADDRESS

AT UNVEILING OF WAR MEMORIAL ON SUNDAY

Mrs. Ida Haight Unveiled the Monument

More Than Two Thousand Witness the Ceremony

The handsome war memorial erected on the post office grounds here by the citizens of Malahide and Aylmer to commemorate the memory of fifty-five men from these two municipalities, who paid the supreme sacrifice in the Great War, 1914-1918, and now lie buried in Flanders Fields, was officially unveiled last Sunday afternoon. Despite a bitter cold wind more than 2,000 people from Aylmer and Malahide and the surrounding district, witnessed the programme which was carried through entirely as planned.

The new monument occupies a most conspicuous position at the east side of the Post Office grounds, and all who pass by on No. 3 Highway may see that, although the war has passed by a decade, the hero dead are not forgotten.  The handsome memorial was designed by the late J. W. Hutchinson, of Aylmer, and the local firm of Hutchinson & Peckham had the contract.  It is without a doubt the most handsome memorial yet erected in Elgin county and one of the most unique and prettiest in Ontario.  It was erected at a cost of some $5,000 and the committee are to be congratulated upon the splendid result of their efforts and the manner in which the programme was conducted on Sunday.

An effort had been made to secure the presence of the Governor-General and also General Armstrong, commanding Military District No. 1, London, but neither could attend because of other pressing duties.  It was most fitting however, that Colonel Walter James Brown, of London, was chosen to officiate and to make the principal address. Colonel Brown is a native of Malahide, a former citizen of Aylmer, was overseas with one of the Canadian batteries, and for a time was officer commanding this district. It was also fitting that Mrs. Ida Haight, of Aylmer, was chosen to draw the cords which drew back the great Union Jack, thus unveiling the memorial.  Mrs. Haight contributed four sons to the Canadian forces, two of whom were killed in action.

The ceremony was entirely military. The Elgin Regiment with their band, attended in full force, as well as the Aylmer and St. Thomas branches of the Canadian Legion and also the Auxiliaries. The reception committee met Colonel Brown and the other distinguished guests at the High School at 2:45 p.m.  Here the guard of honor under the command of Captain E. W. Haines was inspected. The party then proceeded to the memorial headed by the Elgin Regimental Band, the St. Thomas Legion Pipe Band, and the Aylmer Citizens’ Band.  The Bands and regiment were drawn up on Talbot street, facing the memorial with colors in front. The King’s colors were carried by Lieut. Ross McPherson, the regimental colors by Lieut. Balkwill, while the escort consisted of R.S.M., C.D. Lloyd, M.M., and Sergeants Badely, Ellis and Davies.  A memorial guard was posted near the monument, each standing with arms reversed and heads bowed. The memorial guard was composed of Aylmer veterans, Wooten, Jones, Beech, and Pascoe, in command of C. McCabe, a veteran of the navy.

Accompanying Colonel Brown on the platform erected at the side of the memorial were Brigadier-General Douglas E. Gerrard; Lieut.-Col. F. J. Picking; Lieut.-Colonel W. Andrews, William H. Taylor, M.P. for Norfolk-Elgin; Rev. R. D. Hamilton; Mayor Dr. H. J. Davis and Reeve H. B. Westover. The Union Jack was draped over the memorial.

The service commenced with the Band playing “O Canada”, followed with prayer by Canon Charles Miles, rector of Trinity Church, Aylmer, following which a few words of welcome were addressed to Col. Brown by Rev. R. D. Hamilton, chairman of the memorial committee, who also lost a son in the great conflict.  Mr. Hamilton congratulated the people of Aylmer and Malahide on the realization of their dream. He was glad to see so many veterans who had come back, but he said, “We are here today to honor those dear lads who did not return, and who rest among the noblest and best in France and Belgium. Their names will remain on this memorial long after ours are forgotten”.  Colonel Brown and all other visitors were also addressed words of welcome by Mayor Davis of Aylmer, and Reeve Westover, of Malahide.

Colonel Brown Pays Tribute

In his address Colonel Brown said: “We are here this afternoon to pay a tribute to those who gave their lives during the war of 1914-1918. Some people say that the erection of war memorials serves to glorify war. The so-called glorification of war is a delusion. It is a product of the imagination.  War may be unavoidable. The vicissitudes of life in the case of an individual sometimes precipitates a crisis. So it is with nations and empires.  Every student of history knows that the forces that determine national destiny cannot always be controlled. The only glory that comes from war is the glory of sacrifice, when men lay down their lives for their country.  You will agree that the British Empire is, under Providence, the greatest instrument for peace and good will of which history has any knowledge.  It is so vast in area, so great in population and so might in influence that the mind fails to grasp what it signifies in the world today.  We in Canada are proud that we form a part of that great empire, with its kingdoms, dominions, colonies, protectorates and mandatory states.  Think of its 460 millions of peoples, of all colors, races and creeds, bound together with the ties of affection for one crown and one throne.  The British colonies taken by themselves are so large, so rich in resources and so populous that they constitute no mean empire, greater perhaps than that of Imperial Rome. Under the beneficent folds of the Union Jack there is justice, liberty and civilization for all who are willing to share our responsibilities, and for all who strive to do their duty.  Let us remember that God imposes on no nation supreme opportunity that does not respond to the call of supreme duty.  Our supreme duty came to us in the grim form of war in 1914.  We paid the price with four years of agony and more than a million dead. Canada’s share was nearly fifty-seven thousand. Of the million dead, 740,000 lie in the fields of France and Belgium.  If, for one brief moment, we assume that we had not responded to the call of duty in 1914, and as a result we had lost the war, what would the world be like today?  The British Empire would have been broken, and in all probability Canada would have been under a different flag. Is it necessary to ask, “Were the sacrifices we made worth while?”  

Praises People of Aylmer

“May I compliment you, the people of Aylmer and Malahide, on your good taste and generosity, in placing this memorial in your midst.  It will stand here for all time an expression of patriotism and civic pride.  Two weeks ago today we celebrated the tenth anniversary of the Armistice which ended the greatest and most fateful of all wars.  Our hearts in loving gratitude turned to the memory of those whose lives were the price of our deliverance.  This memorial which you have erected is not alone a tribute to the dead. May it be a perpetual reminder to those who come after us of the high moral lessons of the war – the lesson of duty, of devotion to King and country, the lesson of self-control and self-sacrifice, and the lesson of unity in mind and heart that have been the safeguards of the British race.”

Placing of Wreaths

Another impressive ceremony was the placing of some seventeen wreaths on the memorial. These were held by members of the Aylmer Legion and the names were called by Mr. T. L. Barnecott, secretary of the Memorial Committee, and placed in the following order: Elgin Regiment, Col. Warren Andrews; D Company, Capt. E. W. Haines; Aylmer Branch Canadian Legion, P. Crawford; Ladies’ Auxiliary, Mrs. P. Crawford and Mrs. J. Benson; Aylmer Council, Mayor H. J. Davis; Malahide Council, Reeve H. Westover; Public School, Aylmer, Misses Barbara Morris and Ronnie Farrel, when a sacred tribute to the British soldiers was recited by Master Jack Harvey; Women’s Institute, Mrs. W. Blanchard; Trinity Church, Aylmer, Canon Miles; United Church, Aylmer, Mr. A. L. Caverly; Hutchinson & Peckham, W. A. Peckham; Mrs. Ida Haight, Pte. Harry Haight; Mrs. J. Benson, Mrs. Benson; Mrs. George Blashill, George Blashill, Buffalo; Mrs. T. W. Benner, Mrs. Benner; Mrs. G. W. Youell, Mr. W. J. Youell; Mrs. Harry Richardson, Mr. Richardson.

The Honored Dead

The following is a list of the 55 names on the memorial: W. Antill, O. G. Ballah, E. Barker, H. Blashill, H. E. Burnham, J. H. Branion, M. J. Benner, W. Barnes, D. G. Benson, F. L. Brooks, W. H. Claire, R. W. E. Christie, D. L. Doan, J. Dunning, C. E. Elssworthy, M. D. Fluelling, E. Freight, C. A. Forbes, R. Gatward, O. Garner, C. L. Haight, W. H. Haight, D. K. Hamilton, J. A. Hare, H. Ingram, F. Kilmer, C. E. Kennington, F. Learn, J. McL. Lawrence, T. Light, G. Moore, A. B. Mann, A. Methuen, E. D. Mitchell, A. E. Mott, C. McEwen, W. O’Neil, C. E. Orton, O. L. Pound, C. Prowse, V. Prowse, H. G. Purkiss, W. Prosser, A. F. Roberts, A. T. Richardson, W. P. Richardson, L. M. Raymond, H. Simpson, C. Startup, B. J. Timpany, H. Thompson, W. Turner, W. Wickham, C. Westbrook, A. W. Youell.”

The Memorial in Springfield

In 1931, a memorial to those who fell in the Great War from the Springfield area was erected and unveiled.  The following article appeared in the Aylmer Express, November 19, 1931:

1500 ATTEND UNVEILING OF SPRINGFIELD CAIRN

Elgin Regiment, Aylmer “D” Company and Aylmer Legion, Assist

Sunday last was a memorable day for Springfield, when after four years of untiring effort, the beautiful and appropriate cairn erected by the efforts of the Springfield Women’s Institute, in memory of the men from Springfield and South Dorchester who paid the supreme sacrifice in the Great War, was officially unveiled and dedicated. Although the day was wet, it fortunately cleared up long enough at the right time for the ceremonies.

The Elgin Regiment Band, accompanied by the color party, and other members of the regiment from St. Thomas, “D” Company, Aylmer, the Aylmer branch of the Canadian Legion and Springfield veterans and wreath bearers formed at the school grounds, and headed by the band, marched to the park.  At the four corners of the memorial were stationed an infantryman, a sailor, a Highlander, and an artilleryman, representing the four branches of the service, which added much to the impressiveness of the scene.  Warden H. G. Taylor was in charge of the program, and carried it through most successfully.

The opening number was “O Canada” played by the band, with the singing led by Thomas Hobbins, whose fine voice could be heard distinctly throughout the park. Two minutes silence followed, after which Reeve Newell read the address of welcome, in which he stressed the appreciation of the Council and village in having so fine a memorial to grace the little park and to remind the people of sacrifices which the local men had made.  He also expressed the thanks of the W. I. to all who had assisted in making the dedication a success.  Warden Taylor said that the service was another example of the splendid work the Women’s Institute is doing throughout the country.  He gave a very interesting account of the meaning of “The Two Minutes’ Silence”.

A beautiful Union Jack covered the face of the cairn, and, at the proper moment, it was reverently drawn aside by Mrs. J. L. Moore, whose son, Gordon, is sleeping in Flanders, and Mrs. John Thompson, of Mapleton, mother of Herbert Thompson, who served in the air force, and of Dr. George Thompson, a former physician in the village.  After the unveiling, Warden Taylor introduced both ladies to the large assembly. The unveiling was followed by a very impressive prayer offered by Rev. G. E. Morley. The impressive service of dedication was performed by Captain, the Rev. J. A. Davies, Chaplain of the Elgin Regiment. From the touching address which preceded the ceremony to the closing prayer, there was a silence that clearly indicated the solemnity with which the audience listened.

Reeve Taylor, in announcing the roll call, asked each returned man to hold up his right hand. He first read the list of nine men who had made the supreme sacrifice, and followed with the veterans.

Placing of Wreaths

The placing of the wreaths was a beautiful part of the ceremony.  “D” Company’s wreath was placed by Major Haines, of Aylmer. The Canadian Legion and Ladies’ Auxiliary was placed by H. Farrell and Mrs. Rawlings, of Aylmer, whom the chairman introduced as an overseas nurse.  John Allison was wreath bearer.  The Springfield Veterans’ wreath was placed by J. A. Wharton, who was welcomed home from South Africa thirty years ago, by just such a crowd as filled the park Sunday.  Mrs. W. I. Atkin placed the Women’s Institute wreath, the bearer being A. E. Davies. The Springfield Council, Reeve Newell, with Norman Charlton as bearer.  Mrs. Atkin was introduced as the mother of two soldiers, one of whom won the M.C.  A. Love, W.M. of Springfield Lodge, A.F. & A.M. No. 259 placed the Lodge Wreath, with Stewart Black as bearer. The I.O.O.F. and Arkess Rebekah offering was handed to F. E. Martin and Mrs. W. Cathers by Fred Martin.  Charles North handed J. L. Moore, father of Gordon Moore, the wreath presented by the parents in memory of their son, while Mrs. Carl Vincent, received from the hands of her brother, Kenneth, the wreath from the brothers, sisters and nephews.  All three were presented to audience.  Then followed the Black family wreath, borne by N. R. Martin, and placed by Stewart Black, one of the three sons of the late M. M. Black, all of whom served nobly during the war. Stewart was a prisoner for many months in a German prison.  W. Peckham placed the wreath donated by his firm, receiving it from the hands of Bert Hobbins.  The last, a wreath contributed by the members of the Malahide Council in this district, was placed by Deputy Reeve Newell and B. Disbrowe.

The dipping of the Colors, Last Post and Reveille, made a fitting conclusion for this beautiful service. Nothing finer has ever been heard in Springfield than Rev. G. E. Morley’s rendering of “In Flanders Fields” which was followed by the Reveille.  Then came the National Anthem, played by the band.  A most fitting conclusion was the benediction, which was pronounced by Rev. Hiel Wood, now in his 97th year, and who is a son of a veteran who won a medal at Niagara in the War of 1812. Before pronouncing the benediction, Mr. Wood gave a short address, of which a much younger man might well be proud.

After the benediction, the soldiers marched around the block, and across to the I.O.O.F. where lunch was served.

The Women’s Institute are deeply indebted to the Elgin Regimental Band and color party from St. Thomas, and to Major Haines and his company from Aylmer, to the Legion and veterans who helped so much to make the service a success. They appreciate very much the warm support given them by the Village Council, Rev. G. H. Morley, and the I.O.O.F., who gave them the freedom of their hall for the entertainment of their guests.  Much of the success of the program is due to the splendid handling of it by Warden Taylor, and to the splendid assistance of Alfred Davies, who spared no pains to assist the committee in every way possible.

The memorial guard was composed of Sergeants C. McCabe, R. H. Dobbie, H. Lock, and W. Gifford.  They were under the command of Sergeant McCabe.

Inscribe Names Later

The memorial is a cobble stone cairn on a cement platform.  It is oblong in form, with a curved top.  It faces the north, and on that side is a granite tablet bearing the words, “In Memory of the Men of Springfield and South Dorchester, who fell, and in Honor of Those Who Served in the Great War, 1914-1918″.  The names of all who participated will be placed on tablets on the sides, later on, it is hoped, by next Armistice Day.

The unveiling of the cairn is now a matter of history, and it is safe to say that it will go down in the annals of Springfield as one of the events in the history of the village.  Over two hundred veterans registered, and it is estimated that fully twelve hundred people were present.  It was a home-coming of old boys and girls, as well as a memorial dedication, every one being anxious to witness the honor being shown to the boys.

No church service on Sunday was ever conducted with greater reverence than that which on Sunday seemingly impressed the audience and participants alike.

The Cenotaph in Aylmer:

IN HONOURED MEMORY OF
THE MEN OF
AYLMER AND MALAHIDE
WHO FOUGHT AND DIED
FOR KING AND COUNTRY
IN THE GREAT WAR
1914 – 1918

Antill

G. Ballah

Barker

Blashill

E. Burnham

H. Branion

J. Benner

Barnes

G. Benson

L. Brooks

H. Claire

W. E. Christie

L. Doan

C. Dunning

E. Elworthy

D. Fluelling

A. Forbes

Freight

Garner

Gatward

L. Haight

J. Haight

K. Hamilton

A. Hare

Ingram

Kilmer

E. Kennington

Learn

McL. Lawrance

Light

Methuen

D. Mitchell

Moore

E. Mott

B. Mann

McEwen

E. Orton

O’Neil

L. Pound

Prowse

Prowse

Prosser

G. Purkiss

F. Roberts

T. Richardson

P. Richardson

M. Raymond

Simpson

Startup

J. Timpany

Thompson

Turner

Westbrook

Wickham

W. Youell

Pte. Wallace Antill

123541

Wallace AntillWallace Antill was a native of Broughton Astley in Leicester, England, the son of (Henry) Harry Swain Antill and his wife Ada Scott. His father was employed as a grocer’s warehouseman, and the family was living in the Parish of St. Mark’s, Leicester on the 1901 England census. The family included: Henry, age 34, his wife Ada, age 32, and children Alice, age 11, Wallace, age 9, William, age 6, Harold, age 3, and Lily, age 1.

Wallace was born on November 28, 1891, and while living in England had served two years in the Leicester Militia.  An entry found in the 1911 census for Malahide Township (Dist. 5, page 6), undoubtedly refers to Wallace, even though the name is given as “Walter”.  He was a labourer, age 19, born December 1891 in England, who emigrated in 1910.  He was living with Francis & Bessie Sansburn.  One year later, he was living in Sparta when he married Arabella Alice Cleaver of Jaffa, on September 11, 1912 in Aylmer.  She was the daughter of William & Bessie (Draper) Cleaver.  Wallace and Alice farmed in Malahide following their marriage.

Wallace enlisted for service on September 18, 1915 in Aylmer.  He served with the 91st Battalion, but was part of the 75th Battalion of Canadian Infantry (Central Ontario Regiment) at the time of his death on November 18, 1916, at the age of 24. His name is recorded on the Vimy Memorial, Pas de Calais, France.

A letter to the Editor of the Aylmer Express by Corp. W. Antill was printed in the February 3, 1916 edition: (there are other letters regarding the background of the issue, not reprinted here).

St. Thomas, Jan. 31, 1916
Aylmer Express, Aylmer, Ontario
Dear Sir:
In the London Free Press this morning one can read the speech made by the man who a few weeks ago visited the 91st Battalion Barracks, in this city.  He was very patriotic on that occasion remarking that he, with others, had the money and because he could not fight himself, would help look after the wives of those who could, and would help fight his battles. Today he is even against a soldier’s wife dressing respectably.  Supposing for instance, he did see a soldier’s wife dressed in silk.  Is she not worth all the silk that money can buy?  When a woman gives up her husband to fight for his country, she is taking a great chance. He may return or he may not.  If he is killed in action all the money in this world cannot equal his worth to his wife.  If this patriotic man was to spend his spare time hunting up some of the single men around Aylmer, instead of noticing the style of dress worn by our soldier wives, I think he would be doing greater work for the Patriotic Association.  Thanking you for your valuable time and space.
Yours truly, Corp. W. Antill, A Co., 91st Batt., St. Thomas

News of his death was recorded in  the Aylmer Express, December 14, 1916:

ANOTHER MALAHIDE MAN KILLED IN ACTION
Mrs. W. Antell, who now resides at Jaffa, with her parents, Mr and Mrs Cleaver, received a telegram on Thursday of last week, announcing the sad news of the death of her husband, Pte. W. Antell, who was killed in action on November 18th.  Pte. Antell was a very popular member of the 91st Battalion, and previous to enlisting made his home in Malahide.  He leaves beside his wife, two small children.  Much sympathy is felt for the bereaved family.

A letter sent to Mrs. Antill from Lieut. W. D. Harding was printed in the Aylmer Express, December 28, 1916:

PTE. ANTILL KILLED AT THE MOMENT OF VICTORY
Particulars of his Death are sent to Mrs. Antill by Lieut. Harding
Memorial Service to be Held in Trinity Church Next Sunday Evening for
Ptes. Antill and Startup, whose Death was Reported Last Week
France, Nov. 28th, 1916
Mrs. W. Antill, Aylmer, Ont.

Dear Madam:
Doubtless ‘ere this letter is received you will have heard of your husband’s death in France, on Saturday, November 18th.  As officer with whom your husband was most intimate I wish to convey to you my sincere sympathy in the loss of one whom you loved to deeply and who was so much respected by his comrades in France.  To the best of my knowledge I shall try to give you the details which I am sure you are anxious to learn.  On November 18th, on Saturday morning at 6:10 a.m., the 75th Battn. took part in an assault on the German trenches.  We successfully captured the position, but many of our brave fellows were killed or wounded on the battlefield.  The price of victory was dearly paid.  Your husband jumped over the parapet with Corp. MacAteer at 6:10 and advanced with his platoon toward the German lines. It was a glorious charge.  Our fellows reached the German trench, captured the position and captured many prisoners.  At the moment of victory, when our men were successfully entering the German trench, your husband was wounded by a rifle shot.  He died a couple of hours later and was buried by his comrades close to the spot where he fell, and near the trench which he so bravely helped to capture.  Honour and pride can never give back your husband whom you loved so dearly, but I feel sure that he could not have had a more glorious death and although you mourn him deeply you and your family will feel proud of the brave manner in which he acquitted himself and of the honour which he has brought to his friends.  We all feel his loss deeply and both officers and men, and most especially myself, wish to convey to you our very sincere sympathies. Yours very truly, W. D. HARDING, Lieut., 75th Bn. Canadians

Wallace & Alice Antill’s two children were Muriel B. Antill who was married on November 25, 1933 to Stanley J. Armstrong, of Thamesford; and John Cleaver Antill, who married Lillian M. Graham of London about 1942.

Alice A. Antill (1889 – 1983)  is buried in Woodland Cemetery, London

An article about a memorial service held for Pte. Antill and Pte. Startup was found in the St. Thomas Journal, January 2, 1917.  This article can be found on the page for Pte. Startup.

Pte. Orlo Grant Ballah

189596

Orlo Grant Ballah was born oOrlo Grant Ballahn December 18, 1897 at lot 12, concession 8, South Dorchester Township, a son of James Albert Ballah (1857-1947) & Sarah Belinda Sherk (1857-1935).  They were married in South Dorchester on February 22, 1882, and farmed there for several years. Other members of the family were: Ettie Ray (1882); William (1884); George Dustin (1886); Alberta Victoria (1888); Alma Gertrude (1889); Mary Ellen (1891), and Norma Violet (1902). The family appears on the South Dorchester census in 1901 (Div. 2, page 3), and 1911 (Div. 9, page 4). Grant Ballah enlisted for service on December 8, 1915 in St. Thomas.  He gave his occupation as druggist, and was not married. He had previous militia service with the 30th Battery C.F.A.  

At the time of his death on May 3, 1917 at the age of 18, he was serving with the 2nd Battalion of Canadian Infantry, Eastern Ontario Regiment.  His name appears on the Vimy Memorial. He died in the battle at Fresnoy.

Announcement of his death appeared in the Aylmer Express, May 24, 1917:

Word was received last Friday that Pte. Grant Ballah, son of Mrs. J. A. Ballah, Sydenham Street, had been killed in action on May 3rd last.  Pte. Ballah was a member of the 91st Batt., and was very popular with his comrades.  Much sympathy is felt for the mother.

His death was also reported in the St. Thomas Daily Times, May 19, 1917:

PTE. GRANT BALLAH DIES OF WOUNDS

Was Former Bank Clerk at Harrietsville

Aylmer, May 19 – Word was received here yesterday that Private Grant Ballah, who was reported in the casualty lists a few days ago as wounded, had since died of his wounds.  Pte. Ballah enlisted with the 91st Batt.  He was formerly a clerk in the Bank of Nova Scotia at Harrietsville. Besides his parents he is survived by one brother, at the front, and two sisters.

Grant’s name appears on his parents’ tombstone in Aylmer cemetery.

A detailed article with letters written by Grant was compiled by the Aylmer & District Museum and appeared in the Aylmer Express, November 17, 2010, page 3.

Mrs. Ballah’s obituary appeared in the Aylmer Express, June 20, 1935:

MRS. ALBERT BALLAH PASSES

Resident of Aylmer for 19 Years. Formerly Lived in South Dorchester

Sarah Ballah, beloved wife of Alert Ballah, Sydenham street, Aylmer, passed away early Monday morning after an illness of four weeks.   She was in her 78th year and was born in Walpole township. She lived practically all her life in South Dorchester, and for the past nineteen years resided in Aylmer, where she leaves a host of friends. Her parents were the late Mr and Mrs James Sherk.  Mrs. Ballah was a member of the Aylmer Baptist church, of the Get Acquainted Class, and of the Mission Circile and Ladies’ Aid.  One son, Grant Ballah, was killed overseas during the Great War.  She leaves to mourn besides her husband, two sons and five daughters: Will, of Fort Erie; Dustin, of South Dorchester; Mrs. Beson Barr, Dorchester Station; Mrs. Gordon Barons, Harrietsville; Mrs. Herb. Cohoon, Sparta; Miss Mayme Ballah, Walkerville; Mrs. Carl Allen, Aylmer; one sister, Miss M. C. Sherk, of London; one brother, E. Sherk of Brantford, and several grandchildren.  A private service was held at her late residence, Sydenham street east, on Wednesday, June 19th at 2:30 o’clock p.m. Interment was made in the Aylmer cemetery.

E Barker

E Barker

The name of E. Barker appears on the cenotaph in Aylmer, but unfortunately, he cannot be positively identified.  There is however, record of an Edward William Frank Baker, service number 189322, who enlisted for service on November 7, 1915 in Aylmer.  His address was Aylmer, but was born in Kilarney, Ireland.  He lists his next of kin as Amos Anger (or Auger), of Amhertsburg, Ontario, guardian.  He was born August 13, 1893, was a farmer, and was not married.  It cannot be determined if this man was killed in action. The records of the Veterans Affairs of Canada do not list any soldier by the surname Baker or Barker with a matching service number.

The above Edward William Frank Baker is found in a list of recruits in the Aylmer Express, December 2, 1915 (article found earlier in this publication)

There is also record of an Earle Victor Barker, who died May 12, 1917 in France, age 20, #141854.  He was born Sept. 20, 1896 in Paris, Ontario, and enlisted Aug. 6, 1915 in Niagara.  He was the son of Clifford B. & Alice Barker of Paris.  The family is found on the 1901 and 1911 census in Paris.  It is possible this man had lived in the Aylmer area prior to enlisting, but no record of that has been located.

It is also possible that the name “E. Barker” found on the Aylmer Cenotaph refers to Albert Barker, whose information will be found in this volume.

Pte. Harry Arthur Blashill

190193

Harry Arthur Blashill was born July 10, 1892 in Aylmer, the son of George Blashill Harry Blashill& Catherine Elson.  The family is found in the 1901 Malahide Township census (Div. 4, page 3), where other members of the family enumerated are Harry’s siblings: George (1880); Kate (1883); Albert (1885); Betsy (1888); and Floy(d) (1895).  By 1911, the family is living in Aylmer, and only Harry and Floyd are residing at home with their parents.  Harry became a butcher by trade, and also served in the 1st Hussars in London, Ont.  On October 8, 1913 he was married in Aylmer to Mima Thompson of Aylmer, the daughter of George Thompson & Elizabeth Ramsey.  Mima was born in Perth, Scotland.  

Harry enlisted for service in St. Thomas on March 31, 1916 and served with the 91st Battalion.  At the time of his death on April 9, 1917, he was serving with the 73rd Battalion of Canadian Infantry (Quebec Regiment).  His name appears on the Vimy Memorial, Pas de Calais, France.  He was 27 years of age.

A letter written by Harry to a friend in Aylmer was published in the Aylmer Express, August 3, 1916:

HOPES BRAVE YOUNG MEN IN AYLMER ARE HAVING A GOOD TIME

Pte. Harry Blashall Scores Shirkers
Can Plainly Hear Cannonading

Mr. Ben Bates, Dingle Street, has received the following letter from Harry Blashall, of this place, who is with the 91st Battalion in England:

13th July 1916
Friend Ben:Just a few lines to let you know that we arrived safely and well.  We are having a good time here, but it is a lot different from Canada. The crops all look fine in the country, but everything is very dear, and the women do a lot of the work. We can hear the big guns pretty plainly once in a while, especially about daybreak.  I have been taking a course in bomb-throwing, but don’t know how I will make out yet.  We laid a mine yesterday, and when we set it off, it blew a hole nearly big enough to put a house into.  There certainly are lots of aeroplanes around here.  You see them going from daylight until dark, and they certainly travel some.  I suppose the bunch of brave young men we left in Aylmer are having a good time while we fellows – like Will and myself – are out here doing our bit, and theirs, too.  I would like to see them in this country; they would soon come up to time.  Well, I guess this is all for the present. Hoping this finds you and all the rest well, and trusting to hear from you soon – From your friend, Pte. Harry Blashall

No. 190193; D Coy., 91st Batt.; c/o Army Post Office, London, England”

Another letter was published in the Aylmer Express, March 3, 1917:

AYLMER MEN MEET IN FRANCE

Ptes. Harry Blashill and Whit. Canning Run Across Each Other.

Pte. Blashill Tells of Raids by Huns, which was quickly Stopped, and he Says

Fritz slides When Canadians Get after Him

Mrs. George Blashill has received the following interesting letter from her son, Pte. Harry Blashill, who went overseas with the 91st Elgin Battalion:

Somewhere in France, Jan. 24, 1917

Dear Mother and all the rest:
Here I am as good as ever and twice as sorry.  I guess you will be thinking I am a long time between letters, but I have had a busy time lately. We had six days of the hardest time in the trenches that I ever put in and then I was sent away for a prisoner, which took another six days, but that was all right for I went on the train and had a good trip. When I got back I went in the trenches again for three days and now I am out for 3 days. So you see I have been going some.

This morning I had quite a surprise when who should walk into our hut but Whit Canning. The second time I have seen him since I left him at Havre.  He is staying in the same village as I am, so I went down after dinner and met four other 91st men, and we had a good visit.  Tonight my bed mate said, “Hi, I think we will have to go out and invest a little money in something for a lunch”.  About five minutes after along came the sergeant and handed me 3 parcels; one from you, one from Mina and one from Miss Inglis, and a letter from you too, dated Dec. 31st.  So my mate says, “I guess the lunch question is settled for tonight, all right”.  We have been having some fun opening them. Say, mother, I don’t know how I am ever going to thank you enough for the good things you send me, and my pal says to accept his thanks too. The cake and everything was fine and I want you to thank Miss Inglis for me for the fine parcel too, and tell Tommy that the knife was just a thing that I needed, and it is certainly a little dandy.  I also got your card from Mina.  I am glad Dad is getting better.  He looks good in that picture.  I haven’t seen Rolley for about 2 months, but my mate saw him the other day, and says he is fine.

Well, mother, you ask me if candles were of any use.  I don’t know of anything that would be more useful.  The ones we get here are not much use, and they charge enough. I paid a franc, 20 cents, for 4 today, and when I got Miss Inglis’ parcel there were 6 candles in it.  We are issued with matches, so always have plenty of them.

You would laugh to see us just now.  I am laying on one side of the candle and my mate on the other, both writing and trying to smoke.  The smokes gets in my eyes and he laughs at me, and then I laugh at him wiping his eyes.  He certainly is a good pal.  He stays with me all the time, and if I am away from him for a few days, he is always watching for me to show up.  One day Fritz was shelling our front line to beat the band, and word came back to the support trench where we were that I was wanted up to the front line. My pal says, “Where you going, Hi?”  When I told him he grabs his rifle and says, “Front line for mine too.”  Fritz tried to come over on a bombing raid, but we soon stopped him.  You should see them slide for their trench when we get after them.  There was quite a few who never got back, and they haven’t tried to get funny since.

Well, mother, I guess I must ring off or you will be getting tired of reading, and my mate says, “You sure have got the writing fever tonight”. You will have to excuse the writing as I am too lazy to sit up and write. Must close with love to all,

Your loving son, Pte. H. A. Blashill

Announcement of his death appeared in the Aylmer Express, May 3, 1917:

Among the list of casualties reported last Saturday was the name of Pte. Harry Blashill, of this place, who was killed in action. Pte. Blashill is a son of Mr and Mrs George Blashill of this place.  He enlisted and went overseas with the 91st Battalion. He worked for a number of years with Mr. Geo. Trim, butcher here, and leaves a host of friends to mourn his untimely end.  He leaves a wife and two small children, who last summer went to Scotland to live with Mrs. Blashill’s parents there.

A further article on Harry’s death appeared in the Aylmer Express, September 27, 1917:

Mr. Floyd Blashill has received official report of the death of his brother, Pte. Harry A. Blashill, from the authorities at Ottawa, which stated that he was killed in action at the taking of Vimy Ridge on the 9th of April 1917.  His body was recovered on the battlefield, the 14th of April and he was buried on the battlefield.  The report also gave the map location of the grave.  Pte. Blashill is a son of Mr and Mrs George Blashill of this place. He enlisted with the 91st battalion and was later transferred to the 73rd battalion.  His wife and family are at her former home in Scotland.

Mima Blashill returned to Aylmer following the death of her husband, where she remained until 1920, evidenced by a sale notice in the Aylmer Express, April 22, 1920.  It appears she left Aylmer and moved to Detroit, where she was married on October 15, 1921 to John Pendlebury, of Detroit. The Aylmer Express of Oct. 27, 1921 carried a brief notice of their marriage: 

“The marriage of Mrs. Mina Blashill, formerly of this place, to Mr. John Pendlebury, of Detroit, took place at the First Presbyterian Church, Woodward Avenue, that city, on October 15th. The couple will make their home in Detroit”.  

While Harry’s death notice states he left two children, the 1930 Detroit census shows Mima and John Pendlebury with three children: William Blashill, 18, born Scotland; Kathleen Blashill, 15, born Canada, and George Blashill, 14, born Canada.  The United States Social Security Death Index shows a George Blashill, born December 28, 1915, died July 1981 in Detroit.

Harry’s mother Catherine died on September 24, 1932. Her obituary appeared in the Aylmer Express, September 29, 1932:

DEATH OF MRS. GEORGE BLASHILL

Katharine, beloved wife of Mr. George Blashill, died at her home on Sydenham street east, early Saturday morning, Sept. 24th, following an illness of about a month, when she slipped and fell down stairs, fracturing her hip.  Mrs. Blashill was in her [illegible] year and was born at Uxbridge, Ont. For some thirty five years she has been a resident of Aylmer, a kind and loving wife and mother, and a good neighbor and friend, respected by all who knew her. She was a member of the Church of Christ here.  Besides her husband she is survived by two sons and two daughters: George, of Kenmore, N.Y.; Albert of Buffalo; Mrs. Solon Baughman, Con. [illegible], Malahide; Mrs. Edward Roe, Ingersoll.  One sister, Mrs. Jos. Kennedy, St. Catharines, also survives.  Two sons predeceased her, Harry, who was killed in France during the war, and Floyd, who died at home.  The funeral service was held at her late residence on Monday at 2:30, and was conducted by Rev. Dr. Fowler of the Church of Christ, St. Thomas.  Many relatives and friends were present from Buffalo, Ingersoll, St. Catharines, London and St. Thomas, as well as Aylmer and vicinity.  The pallbearers were Messrs. W. Orton, J. Taylor, T. L. Barnecott, P. Anderson, F. W. Kaiser and G. Harp. There were many beautiful floral tributes and the flower bearers were Harold Baughman, Chester Baughman, Lawrence Baughman, Harry Blashill, George Roe and George Thompson.  Interment was made in the family plot in the Aylmer cemetery.

Harry’s father George died on April 16, 1933 in his 78th year. His obituary appeared in the Aylmer Express, April 20, 1933:

GEORGE BLASHILL PASSES

The death of George Blashill occurred at his home in Aylmer on Sunday, April 15th, following an illness of two weeks.  He was in his 78th year, and was born at Uxbridge, Ontario. For the past thirty years he had lived in Aylmer and for many years was employed by the Canadian Canners as engineer. He had been living retired for the past five years. His wife predeceased him in September of last year. Surviving are two sons and two daughters: George, of Kenmore, N.Y.; Albert, of Buffalo; Mrs. Solon Baughman, of Malahide Township; Mrs. Edward Rowe, of Aylmer. The funeral was held from his late residence, Sydenham street east, on Wednesday, the 18th inst., at 2:30 p.m. Interment took place in the Aylmer cemetery.

Pte. Harley Edmond Burnham

400670
Harley Edmond Burnham was born January 25, 1891 in Malahide, at Mount Salem, the son of Howard Burnham, a merchant, and Mary Paulina Holmes, who Harley Burnhamwere married in Malahide on Sept. 11, 1889.  A daughter, Hettie, was born in 1893 on lot 21, concession 2, Malahide.  Sometime in the 1890’s, the family moved to the Town of Essex, Essex County, where they appear on the 1901 census (Div. 2, page 6).  Howard was employed as a factory worker.  Other children in the family were Rosella (born 1895), and John Ebenezer (born 1899 in Essex).  They returned to Malahide where Mrs. Burnham died in 1905 and is buried in Luton cemetery.  Howard was remarried to Sarah Baughman, and they are found on the 1911 Malahide census.  On this census, Harley is working as a domestic in the household of Jabez & Janet Cohoon.

Harley enlisted in St. Thomas on January 29, 1915 and served with the 33rd Battalion.  Upon enlistment, he gave his date of birth as January 21, 1891.  He was a farmer, and not married.  At the time of his death on September 8, 1916 at the age of 25, he was serving with the 7th Battalion of Canadian Infantry (British Columbia Regiment).  His name appears on the Vimy Memorial, Pas de Calais, France.

Announcement of his death appeared in the Aylmer Express, October 5, 1916:

Mr. Howard Burnham, of the 2nd concession of Malahide, near Mt. Salem, has received word that his son Harley has been killed in the trenches in France.  He enlisted with the 33rd Battalion at London, Ont.

A photo of Harley accompanied the following announcement in the Aylmer Express, November 2, 1916:

Pte. Harley Burnham, aged 25 years, eldest son of Howard Burnham, of Malahide.  Enlisted with the 33rd Battalion, London, on December the 14th, 1914.  Killed in action on the Somme front, September 8th, 1916.  A memorial service for Private Burnham will be held next Sunday at 3 o’clock p.m. in the Mt. Salem Methodist church, conducted by Rev. W. Kitely.

Howard Burnham, Harley’s father, continued to live in Malahide, on lot 28, concession 2, until at least 1937 when he had a sale (Aylmer Express, Oct. 7, 1937).  When his second wife died in 1940, her residence is given as Vienna.

Gunner John Harrison Branion

348909

John BranionOn his Attestation papers, John states he was born June 5, 1895 atMapleton, Ont., but was living in Aylmer at the time.  He was the son of David Branion & Ellen Harrison, who were married on December 25, 1876 in Bosanquet Township, Lambton County.  David was living in Biddulph Township, Middlesex County at the time, and was a telegraph operator.  Ellen Harrison was living in Bosanquet.  Their first child, Herbert Cecil, was born in 1877 in Bosanquet, but the family moved to Houghton Township, Norfolk County, where the next child, Cera, was born in 1880. Another daughter Hattie was born in 1882, then Lillie May in 1885 in Tillsonburg. A son Harry followed in 1889. Although John’s birth was not registered, they had probably moved to South Dorchester Township by the time of his birth, and then to Malahide by 1899 where Lula was born.  David was listed as a farmer on all his children’s birth registrations. The family is found on the 1901 Malahide census (Div. 4, page 7), and also in 1911 (Div. 4, page 11), where only John and Lula are still at home with their parents.

John Branion enlisted for service at Kingston, Ontario on March 9, 1916.  He was a student, and had one years’ service in the Queens University C.O.T.C. militia.  At the time of his death on April 9, 1918 at the age of 23, he was serving with the 3rd Division Trench Mortar Battery of the Canadian Field Artillery.  He is buried in La Targette British Cemetery, Pas de Calais, France.

A letter from John to his mother was printed in the Aylmer Express, June 8, 1916:

SEEING GREAT SITES IN ENGLAND

John Branion, of Aylmer, Writes Interesting Letter Home of His Experiences in the Old Land

1st Reserve Battery, C.F.A., C.E.F.
Ross Barracks, Shorncliffe, Kent, Eng.
May 16, 1916

Dear Mother:
I suppose by the time this reaches you I will surely have some of your mail.  But so far, I haven’t had a single line from any of you.  Most of the boys have got letters from home that were forwarded from Kingston.  Did you get my wireless message all right?  We couldn’t send a letter or message for four days after our arrival.  Letters are like money to us, only they don’t buy much grub.  That’s where most of our money goes.  We got paid yesterday, but I got only ten shillings, and $25 was coming to me.  The remainder, I guess, was kept out for what I turned over to you.  I hope they give a little more this time.  I have a ten dollar bill yet that I haven’t changed.  But money goes like wildfire. They soak the soldiers something fierce.  Down in Folkestone it costs about 2s 3d for a decent meal.  You’re doing fine if you can get off with one or two shillings a day. Of course, we have other things to buy – blacking, soap, towels, laundry, etc.

I am just finishing my musketry course today. We are just off for a few minutes now, and fall in at 10:15 to march out to the butts. We were out yesterday too. It fell to us to take the farthest butts (P), about 7 miles out.  It looked like rain, and everyone wore a greatcoat.  Then it turned out hot. Some of the fat ones sure got a sweat out. I made 42 out of 65 yesterday, and one shot wasn’t signalled. I should have made more, but the rifle was shooting low, and until I got it gauged right, I lost out in low shots, especially at 200 yards. At 300 yards I started to gauge it, and mad a bull with the last shot.  It’s a peach of a day today.  We still have on our winter underwear.

Sunday night I was in on town picket.  A picket has to keep order in front of every big saloon (pubs).  They close at 8, and the drunks and the half-soused, when turned out, get together in groups and start jabbering away. Then it’s up to the picket to get them to “move on”. You see some great old sights. Women drink as well as men.  I saw one old woman that could hardly toddle go in for her beer.  Dads send their kids for it. One woman left three little kids outside while she went in. It looks pretty tough.  When a bunch of those old hags start gossiping after eight, the devil himself could hardly stir them until they feel like going.  Some of them let our some great oaths at you. If the same thing was to happen in Canada, there would be some stir.  But here, I guess, it’s part of the everyday life.

Say, the scenery here is simply out of sight.  Everything is so green – the pasture fields, valleys, hedges, trees, etc. There are some of the greatest paths and roads you ever saw. It’s a different find of beauty to that of Canada.  Muskoka has just as pretty scenery, but it’s a different kind. That is a wild kind. This is the neat, trained, and fancy kind. The Englishmen over there talk about their home.  You have to hand it to them for things like that. But yet there are things lacking that only Canada can fill.

All of us in the tent got a spell of wondering last night what was going on at home and in Canada.  “Klondike”, in a joke, wanted to know if that was the same moon as we saw in Canada.  It was the greatest moonlight night we have had yet.  Then full-house started to sing about “I’ll sit right on the moon and see that you don’t spoon, so, my little girl, I’ll have my eyes on you.”  We have some great old times here in the tent.  It’s a little miserable when it’s raining, but when it’s nice we certainly can enjoy tent life.  Sometimes when you are busy, you forget about home, but every little while something brings it back to you, like, say, wishing the folks at home could see it, etc.  I suppose this sounds lonesome, but I’m alone here in the tent, and just writing what I fell like. We’re not altogether lonesome, because everything is new, and the crowd keeps up your spirits. There are several bands around, and every chance we get we are off to town or to the beach, etc.

Well, I must go. I am trying to write a letter every three or four days. All of you do the same, or oftener.  I will write to you, and you can let all see it, because time is so scarce.  I am going to send a bunch of postcards pretty soon.  Good-bye for now,
With love from Jack

Another letter from John was published in the Aylmer Express, February 1, 1917:

SPENT CHRISTMAS IN DUGOUT 25 FT. BELOW THE GROUND

Gunner John Branion Writes of Some of his Experiences in France
France, Jan. 2, 1917

Dear Folks:
The parcels came along fine.  I got two from home a few nights ago. The razor is fine and you had some useful articles in them. We have been living high since the Christmas parcels came.  Herbert’s hasn’t arrived yet.

Excuse any mistakes I make as I am trying to do two things at once – write and watch for that rat that just went across the floor.  I’ve got a can of bully-beef here ready on the bed.

Well, you will want to know how I have spent the time lately.  You remember that we were on a trench mortar working party before Christmas. The day before Christmas we went back to the section. When I got there Taylor was back from the hospital.  Christmas morning we had to all get up and do stables, then we were off for the day. Taylor and I spent the forenoon building a double-bed. For dinner we had chicken (mine was too tough to eat), potatoes, dressing, plum pudding with sauce.  In the afternoon we took a walk up to the next town to call on a French family Taylor had become acquainted with. They gave us coffee and we had a little chat.  There were two young girls. We were having a good time when about 5 o’clock, in came a French-Canadian and then we were strictly out of it. He had the floor. So we soon beat it.  Arrived back at the section in time to get a few nuts that had been given out at supper time and then filled up on stuff out of the boxes and went to bed early.

Next morning we were hurried away on another working party for Christmas holidays.  We have had no chance to write until tonight.  Last night I posted two old letters, one home and one to Carl.  At first some of us were sleeping in an old gun pit. But the 4th morning, we were flooded out just before reveille. Taylor and I had about 50 sandbags under our bed and they saved our blankets a little. Before we could scramble up and get the blankets folded, the water was about 3 inches deep. That afternoon, the S. M. let two boys off to hunt a new place. They found themselves a place and room for two others, but none for us.  It was dark before we got supper and started out to hunt aplace. Another boy had found a digout big enough for three, but we discovered that the roof was breaking in from the rain the previous night.  It wasn’t safe.  We left him to watch our blankets and we went to look again. We searched the ruins, but every dugout or shelter was either filled already or wet too.  Finally we got into a store-house.  It was O.K., but next day was taken for a cookhouse. So that night (New Year’s Eve) we were homeless again.  Finally a Cpl. directed us to a dugout.  It is about 3/4 of a mile from our cook-house, but is fine. It is about 25 deep, dry and has three good beds. We are comfortable as kittens now.  

Yesterday we got off work at 1. First we came to the dugout, washed and shaved (first for a week), then went to town.  Say talk about a New Year’s dinner. I got the $2.00 the folks sent me, changed into French money. We had four fresh eggs each, a big plate of chips, bread, butter and coffee. We called on some of the trench-mortar boys and then came back about 9:00.

While down there I found out that my transfer to the trench mortars has gone through, but I haven’t been notified by the section. Probably will have to wait until this job is finished.  That will mean no more grooming of those horses, long-eared heroes, the mules. They make you put in 2 hours, morning, noon and night. First water and fee, hay, then groom for the rest of the time.  I could write for a week I believe, on the topic of mules.  They sure are tough for work – but enough said.  Here’s wishing you all a Happy New Year,

Jack

Gunner Jack Branion,

X Battery, 3rd Canadians,

Trench Mortars, France

Another letter from “Jack” was published in the February 15, 1917 issue:

ANOTHER LETTER FROM PRIVATE JOHN BRANION

Weather Mild but Wet – Wants Reading Matter Sent

Had Quite a Scare from a Gas Alame, When he had Left his Mask Behind

Somewhere in France, Jan. 2, 1917:
Dear Folks:
I was issued with a green envelope today, so am away tonight on a long letter. Well, we are still up here on the working party, digging gunpits. I have found out that my transfer has been through since Dec. 3rd, yet the section officer has never mentioned it.  I guess he wants to get as much work out of me as possible before I leave. Last night, we were down town and I dropped into the post office to post some letters.  It was lucky that I did, for I found your registered letter to me. The Army P.O. has changed the address, so even they had been advised of the transfer. This is sure some outfit here. I am enclosing a rose that I found beside a ruins near where we were digging on Jan. 10.  It will be a little souvenir, and will also show you what kind of weather we are having.  It was on the south side, which made quite a difference.  It is no trouble at all for it to rain, and the funny part of it is, there is no lightning or thunder.  I guess the guns make up for that. There is lots of wind, too, but I suppose no more than one might expect.  Most of the days being cloudy, it doesn’t warm up much, and you have to be tough to work without mitts on. Some nights pass without freezing, or even a frost, but nearly every night lately it has been quite frosty. There is no snow here. Yesterday a few flurries fell in the morning, but melted at once. But even this is like California, as compared to Northern Canada. Not half so bad as I expected except for the wet.

I discovered the other day that Pete’s battery was within 200 yards of my dugout, and so was over talking to him.  I was to go over tonight but was reading a book.  You know what that means when I get interested. Taylor found two books and some short story magazines.  Magazines like the Strand, Cosmopolitan, etc., you might send once in a while, also some papers, clipping of Bringing Up the Father, Mutt and Jeff, the Aylmer Express, St. Thomas Times, etc. For eats you can choose from honey, chicken (canned), and corn. All other canned stuff, I think we can buy here.  Make up the rest with cake, candy or something like that. As long as you have the money here you can buy almost anything. What the French restaurant haven’t got, the Y.M.C.A.’s have.

I have just told you we had no snow but his morning the ground is white.  The snow was soft and made work terribly sloppy today.  Tonight the parcel of mitts and towels came. The mitts are fine and just what one needs out here. The boots have not arrived yet, but I have another pair of rubber boots.  Say, I am getting low in socks now – down to three pairs. I learned a good lesson the other night.  I had gone over to the cookhouse and left my gas mask in the dugout, half a mile away. Just as I got my grub, the gas alarms started to blow.  No one had a spare mask, so I grabbed my supper and beat it for the dugout.  Luckily no gas came near us. But just watch me leave my mask behind again.

Tonight another boy moved in with us. Douglas got a box tonight, and we had a big feed on nuts, candies, dates, figs and raisins.

With love from, Jack

X Battery, 3rd Canadian Trench Mortars

Jack’s next letter was published in the Aylmer Express, March 15, 1917:

WAR MAY DRAG ON THROUGH THE SUMMER

If Fritz Lasts Through the Spring Campaign it will be for all.  Gunner John Branion

Tells of the Allies Preparation for the Spring Drive, and gives an Excellent

Description of the Different Hun Shells, and Describes Fighting with a Trench

Howitzer Brigade. The letter was written to his parents, Mr and Mrs D. Branion of this place

France, Feb. 9, 1917
Dear Folks:
Thought I had better drop you a line to let you know I am O.K.  I am having my first go at a turn in the trenches.  It is some life. We are all black with smoke.  Haven’t had a wash since we came in.  Have been in six days now and will be here a while yet. This trip has proved a great initiation. We are in about as hostile a position as the boys say they were ever in.  A bombardier was hit the second day we were in. I was standing only about ten feet away. As soon as he dropped I picked him up.  He said, “I’m finished, good bye boys”.  We saw he was pretty badly hit, but as soon as he said that we got busy. Hal ran for stretcher bearers and I got him down the trench as far as I could.  Had him about 200 yards by the time the stretcher bearers came. We stopped there and dressed him. All the time everything imaginable was coming over. One splinter sounded as if it were sure coming right into the trench, but didn’t.  As soon as we had him dressed, we carried him to the nearest dressing station.  It was a nasty wound on his right shoulder blade, but not serious, as it had turned a little to the side and missed his lung.  Things sure are warm here. A splint piece hit me on the boot today.  I have it for a souvenir. We have another bombardier and carry on just the same.  We do our own cooking. I got Cora’s box last night, also your letters and parcels.  Our biggest troubles are rats and lice.”

On the 18th of February he also wrote the following interesting letter on life in the trenches:

We are now out on a divisional rest. We don’t know for how long, but probably two weeks anyway.  I guess we about earned it anyway. Some of us did sixteen days straight in the line instead of the usual five.  That was my initiation too. Some start, eh?

While in this time, our gun was in as hostile a position as the boys say they were ever in. At times Fritz threw everything but bricks.  I thought I had seen quite a lot of war before, but saw a good lot more while in the line.

As you know through aeroplane observation and observation from high ground, many of the roads are not safe to travel on in day time, so you have to go up communication trenches some times for miles before reaching the line. On reaching the line, you find yourself in a maize of tangled trenches. Each trench is named and sometimes you run across pretty odd names.  I could give you a pretty good description of their plan but am not allowed to.

Next about Fritz’s artillery – when in the line, the distant report of his guns firing, are almost as distinct as ours. It is a good thing that you can hear it, for it puts you on guard for a shell. There is a lapse of a few seconds between hearing the report of his heavy guns and the time you hear them whistling toward you. But his whizz-bang batteries are not far behind the line and anyway they come so fast you have no time to dodge.  You hear the report of the gun – then whizz-bang (as they explode). They don’t make much noise in exploding or do much damage unless you are very close to them. But a heavy shell comes with a hurtling whistle and explodes like a ton of bricks falling on a tin roof. The black smoke whirls in the air and the mud and dust sometimes go 50 feet or more high, and the splinters sing through the air in all directions. Next for some of his trench weapons:

(1) Hand grenade, used in attacks. The explosive is in a can shaped iron on the end of a stick and when thrown explodes.

(2) Rifle grenades. The explosive is in an iron tube about 4 inches long and fastened to a sort of iron ramrod. It is fired from a rifle. The tube is divided into small squares that fly off when it explodes. Range about 700 yards.

(3) Pineapple, also broken into squares like the rifle grenade, but is a little larger and has four little wings to guide it. Fired by a spring. Range about 500 yards.

(4) Rum jar, shaped like a rum jar and probably weighing 10 or 15 lbs. Fired from a mortar. Range about 500 yards.

(5) Sausages. A long tube-shaped explosive that whirls over and over in the air. It makes more noise in coming like a minnewerfer.

(6) Minnewerfer. This is his heaviest trench mortar and weighs somewhere between 60 to 90 lbs.  It is like a big shell, but has 4 wings to guide it. The mortar is on wheels and can be moved from place to place. If you are listening, you can hear the report over in Fritz’s line, as the mortar is fired. In about 7 or 8 seconds you hear a sh-sh-sh, if it is close, as it whirls heavily in the air. Then crash, and the black smoke and dirt flies in the air. It tears quite a hole in the earth.  Some times if you are working and making a noise you don’t hear the minnie coming.  We had several burst so close that the hot air puffed in our faces. But we seemed pretty lucky.  I think I told you about the bombardier getting hit.  Outside of that everything went fine.  If Fritz made it too warm, we scuttled into our dugout like rats and waited until the strafe was quieted down, the retaliated.

In the air we have Fritz beaten easily.  He has some good and daring aviators that pull off solitary observation flights, etc., but outside of that he isn’t in it.  Every bright day, our aeroplanes are up by the dozens and keep Fritz’s anti-aircraft guns busy all day.

We have more artillery than he, too.  If he still lasts out after the spring campaign, it will be all. The war might drag on through the summer, but all feel confident that we shall be home for next Christmas. Some say it will finish in June. Hope so.

While in the line you get fed well and do your own cooking.  We don’t get us so early.  Breakfast always consists of bacon and bread. For dinner, we usually have a light lunch of various kinds. Supper is usually beef steak or beans, or maconochie, etc. and bread.  We draw the rations and do whatever we like with them. We will be expert cooks. You ought to try our tea. While here on rest another boy and I are having a taste of what home will be. The regular billett is a barn, but we got a room in a French house for half a franc (10c) each. We have a bed and sleep between clean sheets, washed and dried the day we came. Pretty smooth, eh?  The people are good. I can talk enough French to be understood. We get hot water for shaving, coffee morning and night.

This is pretty long, so you will have to write a lot too.

Your loving son, Gunner John Branion

X Battery, 3rd Div’l Trench Howitzer Bdge., France.

Another letter was published in the Aylmer Express, May 10, 1917, after his experiences at Vimy Ridge:

JOHN BRANION HAS SOME NARROW ESCAPES

Tells of Some Exciting Experiences at Vimy Ridge

Mrs. D. Branion has just received the following descriptive letter from her son, who is with a trench mortar battery in France:

France, April 10th, 1917
Dear Folks:
I received another of your letters dated Feb. 19th, and containing the money.  It arrived just in time for Easter.  I hope you all spent a happy Easter. Was Cora, Lillie, Herbert or Hattie at home?  I think I will remember this Easter for some time.  It was spent in the trenches and proved rather exciting.  Long before this reaches you the papers will be full of the new laurels the Canadians have won. Our brigade of mortars was in the line, playing its part of leveling Fritz’s barged wire. We certainly carried out the work too.  Hardly a spike was left standing.

Saturday was another exciting day. In the forenoon I just missed getting a “Blighty” or “R.I.P.” I was cleaning the gun and just stepped over to the other side of it, when a splinter zipped passed where I had been standing and struck the back of the emplacement.  Then again in the afternoon I had a trial at shell shock, but not enough to go to the hospital. Two of our emplacements happened to be only about 10 feet apart. The cpl. on the next gun was firing when suddenly there was a “premature” (the bomb for some reason exploded right in the emplacement).  In this case, we think a splinter struck and detonated the bomb. The bombs have a terrific explosion and rip things up in great style.  The cpl. was blown down stairs but escaped safely except for a bad shaking up. The bombardier and I in our pit, got a good share of the concussion. We were banged up against the emplacement and well shaken up.  You felt as if some one had struck you on all parts of the body with a heavy mallet. My steel helmet was blown into the air.  It must be going yet, for I never found it.

The weather has been fierce for a few days – snow, rain, hail and wind. We are sleeping in tents, but get along fine.  Received your last box yesterday. That was a good one and the best kind to send.  I have just sent you a little surprise. I don’t know how long it will take to come, but I hope it won’t be long.  I want you to make use of it.  Thank Helen Caughell for me. We all had a pleasant forenoon looking over the big roll of clippings.
Love from, Jack

The Aylmer Express issue of September 20, 1917 contained this letter from “Jack”:

FRENCH ARE RETURNING TO THEIR HOMES BEHIND THE ALLIED LINES

People Live in the Villages and go out Every Day to the Farms

Women are all Stooped and Round-Shouldered, While Children Look Twice Their Age

Bomber John Branion tells something of the life of France behind the lines in a letter to his parents, Mr and Mrs David Branion, of this place.

France, July 16, 1917
Dear Folks:
I guess it is about time I am writing to you again. Several of your parcels have arrived since I wrote last – the box with the lemon cakes, the shirts, the box of trilbies, also two letters, one registered and one not.  If I don’t tell you about receiving anything you send don’t worry because I am sure I get everything that the subs don’t get and that seems to be small according to what you tell me you send.

Sometimes letters come in and if I don’t answer right away, I forget about them. So take it for granted that I get most of what you send.  I am lucky in having an odd name.  

I haven’t been in the line now for nearly two weeks. But it will be about my turn for the next party going in. It’s a hostile spot as we are close to Fritz. Some of the boys, while in on the last party, scouted around some of the old houses and ruins (a ticklish job so far in advance and where observation is pretty goo, but the T.M.’s are famous for their souvenir hunting) and came back lugging chinaware, a clock, an accordian, wine glasses and other articles too numerous to mention. Now in the line-up for cook-house you see all kinds of fancy plates, bowls, soup toureens, etc., left behind by the French families who probably kept the estaminents for Fritz until we drove them back.

You asked me to send you souvenirs, I certainly will send all I can, but we are restricted from sending anything but buttons, post cards, Fritzie caps, soft Fritzie gas-masks, and such small articles as these, but no metal articles or no helmets. Please take good care of the gas-mask.

Almost every day now, you see a strange civilian around here.  One by one, they are coming back in to take back their homes wherever there is one.  Only yesterday, one wagon drawn by two horses (one ahead of the other) and loaded with a couple of tables, a bed, stove, etc., all their worldly possessions, came into town and trailing behind the big wagon, a donkey about the size of a minute, lugged a little cart containing a few odds and ends such as stovepipes and pans.

All the vehicles are crude, old-fashioned affairs. The wagons are long boxes or racks balanced on two wheels. The horses are driven by a single rein and lots of yelling of “Allez, y or y-tan” (Alta, ye ye-toe). All the farms are outside the town (naturally) but I mean that the people all live in the villages and go out to the farms to work. They nearly always drive out, trailing the harrows, cultivator, etc., back and forth with them. We often see the old man leave the horse tied up in the field while he works by hand. They have queer ways of doing the work but they get it done.  The women are all stooped, round-shouldered and weary looking. The little kids look about twice their age.  However they certainly are doing all possibly for themselves and incidentally for France. Soldiers home on leave go out in the fields and work with their folks.

Well, I guess I had better close. Those shirts are fine. Cora also sent one so I have plenty now.
With love, Jack.

The next letter written by Jack, published in the Aylmer Express, appeared in the February 14,1918 issue:

JACK BRANION HAS ANOTHER NARROW ESCAPE IN FRANCE

Was Helping Unload a wagon load of bombs, when Fritz sent a shell through

the middle of it

X-3C.  D.T.M.B., France, Jan. 13, 1918

Dear folks:
I am going into the line again tomorrow, so thought I would write again tonight.  Have not much news but you seem glad to get them whether interesting or not.  In the last two or three days, I have received a couple of parcels and a couple of letters.

My good luck is still hanging on. We were up the line the other night packing up some of our ammunition and had a wonderful escape.  We were unloading a waggon load of bombs and quite a number of us were right around the wagon when zst! And a 4.1 went straight through the centre of the wagon.  Luckily the bombs didn’t explode, just the charges.  The wagon was practically cut in two and bombs went in every direction.  One boy was wounded in the loin. When the horses jumped, Middleton, whom I told you was with us, was knocked down and run over, receiving a fractured shoulder.  They were the only casualties.  A fire started but we got it out before any damage was done.  Middleton is lucky.  Just out a few days and now away to Blighty for the winter. It is a funny thing, but when we get reinforcements, the new men get wounded while the old ones carry on.

Had a letter from Lulu yesterday. She sure must be enjoying herself.  Well, all for now.
Love, from Jack

Announcement of his death appeared in the Aylmer Express, April 18, 1918, and included a photograph:

GUNNER JOHN BRANION (KILLED)

Mr and Mrs David Branion, South street, received an official telegram yesterday advising them that their son, Gunner John Branion, has been killed in action on the 9th of April.  Many of our readers will remember reading in the Express several of Gunner Branion’s letters, which were very interesting and descriptive of the life and work in France.  He was a graduate of Queen’s University, Kingston, and had prospects of a very bright future.  He enlisted in the early part of the war and went overseas with the artillery.  He also served for some months with a trench mortar, and we understand his papers had gone through for his transfer to the Royal Flying Corps.  In several of his letters home he told of many narrow escapes he had had, but always looked on the bright side and was most optimistic. Gunner Branion has served his country well, and after many months of valiant fighting, has laid down his life for the cause.  His bereaved parents and relatives here will have the sympathy of the town in their sorrow.

Another article following John’s death appeared in the Aylmer Express, April 25, 1918:

Since the news was wired them last week of the death of their son, Bomb. John Branion, which occurred in France on April 9th, while in action, Mr and Mrs David Branion, of this place, have received two letters from their son, one of which is published in this week’s issue of the Express, and clearly shows that he, with his comrades was well aware of the terrific drive which was made this month by the Germans.  Bomb. Branion wrote home regularly once or twice a week and his letters were most interesting about his work in France.  He was in charge of a trench mortar, a very important but dangerous work and one in which, as he describes in his letter, he had many very narrow escapes.  He was an exceptionally bright young man, and prior to enlisting was qualifying at Queen’s University to become a science teacher. The news of his death has cast a gloom over the town.

The letter referred to above was found in the same issue of the Aylmer Express:

BOMBARDIER JOHN BRANION KNEW BIG BATTLE WAS NOT FAR AWAY

In one of his last letters, written March 26th, received since his Death, which occurred in France on April 9th, he seemed to have premonition that the end might be for him

France, March 26th, 1918
Dear Folks:

I think I had better write so you won’t be worrying.  I know what you are like and anyway I guess it is anxious times for every one.  I am glad old Fritzy did not pull off his offensive on us.  He seems to have a wholesome respect for the Canadians. However some of us and perhaps all would have been in Germany now or staying in France forever.  With a concentration of these men and artillery on a certain front either side can made a certain amount of advance. The question of success is just how far they can carry it on and guard their lines of communication.

You can imagine the wild rumours floating around and the excitement with which all news is received.  Yet it is great to see the calm way in which things are handled.  You know where we are and know that the big battle is not far away.  If the present rumours are only true, that the French and British have cut in on his flank taking 160,000 prisoners.  That ends the whole works for Fritz. I expect the 160,000 is exaggerated, yet possible.  Hope it is true.  Did you see in the papers about the big gas attack pulled off by the Canadians.  I wasn’t at the actual place, but not far away.  His distress signals made about the prettiest fireworks display I ever saw.  During his retaliation, a splinter about 2 ½ inches long just skimmed down my face and struck a glancing blow on my gas bag in the “alert” position on my breast.  I was going to keep it for a souvenir but you have enough junk to carry without that.

Have just received the 3rd registered letter O.K., also the box of apples.  Please tell Harold Hambidge we sure enjoyed them. We all had dreams of big orchards full of juicy rusets.

I believe you must be a mind reader. That writing pad came at just the right time.  Paper is very scarce at present.  Wish you would drop a good pencil in the next box.  All for now.
Love from Jack

Have not been able to get away for your present yet.

The following poetry was found among. Bomb. Branion’s effects, which were evidently prized by him – 

“When my King and country call me, and I’m wanted at the front,
Where the shrapnel shells are bursting in the air, when the foe in fury charges
And we’re sent to bear the brunt, and the roll is called for service, I’ll be there.
Chorus – When the roll is called for service, etc. etc.
When the Kaiser’s lines are broken, and his armies out of France,
When the Belgian desolation we repair, when the final muster’s ordered
And the bugle sounds ‘Advance’, May the God of battles help me to be there
When the Allies march through Prussia, with the foe in full retreat,
That our hearts be kept from hatred is our prayer. When the right of might is ended
In a crushing last defeat – and the roll is called in Berlin, I’ll be there
When for me ‘Last Post’ is sounded, and I cross the silent ford,
I’ve a pilot who of mine fields will beware.  When Reveille sounds in Heaven,
And the armies of the Lord sing the Hallelujah chorus, I’ll be there.

Mr and Mrs Branion remained in Aylmer until 1920 when a sale was held (Aylmer Express, January 8, 1920).  They moved to Windsor where they lived at 1230 Wyandotte.  

Another newspaper clipping found on the Veterans Affairs Canada website, source unknown, but probably from a Queen’s University or Kingston newspaper, gives additional details about John Branion’s service and sacrifice:

RECENT CASUALTIES AMONG QUEEN’S MEN

JOHN HARRISON BRANION

We first hear of “J. H.”, a member of Arts ‘17, in the C.O.T.C. at Queen’s.  In March 1916, he enlisted in the R.C.H.A. as a gunner, and accompanied that unit to England in April.  He arrived in France and was immediately sent “up the line”. In January 1917, he transferred to the T. M. B. and was promoted to the rank of bomardier in July and to the rank of corporal in April, 1918. He took an active part in the battles of Somme, Vimy Ridge and Passchendale.  On the morning of April 9th of this year he, with the other N.C.O.’s, was relieving some wornout gunners, John acting as “gas guard” at the “Headquarters Dugout”, Vimy Ridge, when “Fritz” sent over a gas shell which exploded overhead. A splinter of the shell entered his neck, severing the carotid artery, and he just lived five minutes. Thus Queen’s and the country lose another noble man.

Gunner Murray J. Benner

334195  Murray Benner

Murray J. Benner was born on July 31, 1892 in Malahide Township, the son of Thomas Ward Benner & Mary Catherine Woolley.  Their address at the time was Glencolin Post Office.  He was a farmer. Thomas Benner (son of John & Eliza) and Mary Woolley (dau of Nelson & Martha) were married in Malahide on December 7, 1881.  The family is found in the 1901 Malahide census (Div. 5, page 3), and 1911 (Div. 11, page 4).  Other children in the family included Murray’s four brothers: Frank Aubrey (born 1884); Fred Nelson (born 1886); Richard Ward (born 1889), and Arthur V. (born 1897).

When Murray Benner enlisted for service on February 24, 1917 in London, he gave his date of birth as July 31, 1893.  He was also a farmer and was not married.  A stamp bearing the name “63rd Battery” is found on his Attestation paper, but at the time of his death, he was serving with the 3rd Brigade of Canadian Field Artillery.  He was killed on September 4, 1918 at the age of 26, and is buried in Windmill British Cemetery, France.

Notice of his death appeared in the Aylmer Express, September 26, 1918:

Word was received by Mr and Mrs T. W. Benner, Richmond, on Saturday last, that their son, Pte. Murray Benner, had been killed in action.  Pte. Benner went overseas two years ago.  Besides his parents he is survived by four brothers: Arthur Benner, of the R.A.F., Dr. Frank Benner, now of Winnipeg, recently returned from service with the army in Egypt; Ward and Archie at home.

A notice of thanks appeared in the Aylmer Express, Oct. 24, 1918, accompanied by a photograph of Murray with the following caption:

Gunner Murray J. Benner, son of Mr and Mrs Thomas W. Benner, who with their family wish to express their thanks to all friends for their letters and messages of condolence, on the death of their son and brother, who was killed in action in France on September 4th, 1918. With deepest sorrow they mourn his loss, but are proud in the knowledge that he volunteered his all to the call of his country.

A letter written to Murray’s parents from Major Cook regarding his death, was also printed in the October 24, 1918 issue of the Aylmer Express:

MR AND MRS T. W. BENNER LEARN PARTICULARS OF SON’S DEATH

Letter from Major Cook Tells How Gunner Murray Benner Fell in Action

Mrs. T. W. Benner, Aylmer, Ont.:

Dear Mrs. Benner:
May I send you my deep sympathy for the loss of your son, Murray, who was one of my best soldiers and one of the most likeable boys I have had in 4 years of war. I don’t mind saying to his memory that I nor any of my officers never saw anything about him that wasn’t manly, honorable, and altogether fine.  He would have had a fine future in my battery. He was killed instantly about 6 p.m. on the 4th of September, near a village called Villers-Le-Cagnicourt, which is about 12 miles east of Arras on the Arras-Cambrai road. A shell exploded at his feet. Owing to his ability I had made him one of my machine gunners who keep enemy airplanes off, and it was while serving his gun that he died. He was buried that night with military honors, in a British cemetery by our Padre, on the famous battlefield of Telegraph Hill, 4 miles east of Arras. His personal trinkets have been sent and will reach you through the Canadian Militia Department.

With sincere sympathy of my officers and myself,

Yours faithfully, Geo. H. Cook, Major, O.C. 9th Battery, C.F.A.

Another letter from one of Murray’s comrades to his brother,  was printed in the October 31, 1918 issue of the Aylmer Express:

MURRAY BENNER WAS POPULAR IN HIS BATTERY

France, Sept. 9th, 1918

Dr. Benner, Aylmer, Ont

Dear Sir:
Here I am in a tumbled down old shack, trying to think of words to express my sympathy in the loss of your brother, Murray or Ben, as we all called him.  I feel as though I new you quite well, for Ben used to talk so much of his people at home. At first I thought of dropping your father a line, and then I remembered that he is a man who is getting on in years, and does not always enjoy the best of health, so I am sending this to your home address and have them forward it on.  I met your brother when he rejoined the artillery in Witley. We came over to France together, were in the D.A.C. and then had it arranged so that we were sent to the same battery.

At the time of your brother’s death the guns were in action, and he was sticking to his post, when he was hit by a shell and in a few moments passed peacefully away. The following day the body was placed on a gun carriage hauled by a six horse hitch, and we laid him to rest in a cemetery behind the lines, as brave and popular a man as any battery in France ever had.

It would give me great pleasure to be of any further service to you as “Ben” and I were true pals. I want you to ask your mother and father not to worry for I know Murray would not like them to.  My father’s address is E. R. Barley, Kelawna, B.C., and I hope at some future date to have the pleasure of meeting you.

Yours truly, Gr. E. R. Barley, 339018, 9th Battery

Murray’s parents are buried in Luton cemetery, with the following inscription found on the monument: “Thomas W. Benner, 1853 – 1927, his wife Mary Catherine Woolley, 1863 – 1939.  Murray J. Benner, 1892 – 1918 Killed in the Great War”. His name also appears on a memorial monument in Richmond West cemetery.

Pte. William Barnes

190096    William Barnes

William Barnes was born on August 24, 1895 in Norwood, County of Surrey & Middlesex, England.  He emigrated to Canada from the Barnardo Home on the ship Dominion, arriving at the port of Quebec on August 11, 1906, at the age of 11.  

An entry on the 1901 census in England may be the William Barnes who came to Canada.  In the list of “inmates” at the Lambeth New Schools Workhouse on Elder Road, West Norwood, Lambeth (London), there is a William Barnes, age 8, birth place unknown. 

When William enlisted for service on March 11, 1916 in St. Thomas, he listed his address as “care of Wesley Brooks, Kingsmill, Ontario”. Therefore it is assumed that he was employed as a farm hand on Mr. Brooks’ farm in South Dorchester, where Wesley Brooks, his wife Sarah and daughters Pearl and Lulu appear on the 1911 census.  

William may have had no relatives living  when he emigrated to Canada, as he names his next of kin as Harry Hollands, his “next friend”, in care of John Brooks, Springfield.  Harry Hollands was also an emigrant from the Barnardo Home, arriving in Canada in 1909 at the age of 6.

William Barnes served with the 91st Battalion, and although he was not killed in action during battle, he contracted influenza and died on January 23, 1919 at Epsom, England.  He is buried in the Epsom Cemetery, Surrey, England.

Notice of his death appeared in the Aylmer Express, January 30, 1919:

Mr. Harry Hollands has received a cablegram from the War Office announcing the death of Pte. W. Barnes of the 91st Battalion, who died of influenza at Epsom, England.

Second Lieutenant Donald Good Benson

226050  Donald Benson

Donald Good Benson was born in Malahide on September 26, 1897, the son of Joseph Benson, a butcher, and his wife Kate Good. Joseph was a native of Liverpool, England.  He & Kate were married in March, 1880 in Bortte, District of West Derby, Lancashire, England, and emigrated to Canada in 1886 or 1887, settling first in Toronto where in 1886 they were living at 18 St. David Street.  Two children were born to them while living in York County: Jessie Ada (1886), and Joseph (1888).  The family then moved to Enniskillen Township, Lambton County where Frank (1889), Oswald (1891), and Harold (1893) were born.  By 1894 they were living in Aylmer, where Alfred (1894) and Joseph (1897) were born.  There were also two other sons, Andrew (born 1880 in England; died in a house fire in 1930 in Malahide), and Herbert (1885).

Joseph & Kate are found on the 1901 Malahide census (Div. 3, page 5), and also in 1911 (Div. 14, page 7).  Joseph’s death registration in 1928 gives his residence as lot 10, South Gore, Malahide, where he had lived for 34 years.

Donald also followed the trade of a butcher, and had also served one year in the 30th Battery prior to enlisting for service on September 29, 1915 in London. He was assigned to “B” Squadron, of the 2nd Depot Regiment of Canadian Mounted Rifles.  At the time of his death on June 25, 1918 at the age of 21, he was serving with the 99th Squadron of the Royal Air Force. He is buried in Niederzwehren Cemetery, near Kassel, Germany.

The following article appeared in the St. Thomas Times-Journal, prior to Mr and Mrs Benson learning of their son’s death:

Hope Both Are Safe

Upon receiving the letter from the major of his son Donald’s unit, referring to the capture of his machine, Mr. Benson wrote the parents of the other aviator with Donald, who live in Kamloops, B.C. The lad’s mother had also received a letter from another chum of her boy’s, who also testified to the fact that they were captured and went down under control and fighting.  There is every hope the two heroes are alive and will soon be heard from.

Donald’s parents continued to live in Malahide and where Joseph died on December 20, 1928 in his 71st year.  Kate survived him by a number of years, passing away on June 28, 1940 in her 86th year.  They are buried in Aylmer cemetery.

Joesph Benson’s obituary appeared in the Aylmer Express, December 27, 1928:

JOSEPH BENSON PASSES

The death of Joseph Benson occurred at his home on the Gravel Road, just south of Aylmer, on Thursday morning, December 20th, following an illness of some three years. Deceased was in his 71st year and was born in Liverpool, England.  He came to Canada when a young man and for thirty-four years has resided in the home where he died, just south of town.  He was a butcher by trade and for years sold meat on the St. Thomas market and to the local retail butchers.  He was a member of the Canadian Order of Foresters.  Besides his widow he is survived by five sons and one daughter: Andrew, at home; Herbert, St. Thomas; Joseph, London; Frank, of Simpson, Sask.; Harold, of Nelson, B.C.; Alfred, of Sarnia; and Miss Jessie, of London.  Two sisters in England also survive.  The funeral service was held at 2:30 p.m. on Sunday last at his late residence and was conducted by Rev. J. C. Dunlop. Interment took place in the Aylmer cemetery. The pallbearers were Messrs. Guy Loop, Geo. Lindsay, George Hodges, Fred Light, David Chapman and H. Spurrell.

Kate’s obituary appeared in the Aylmer Express, July 4, 1940:

MRS. KATE BENSON

Mrs. Kate Benson, one of Aylmer’s oldest and most respected citizens, died in the Memorial Hospital, St. Thomas, Friday evening, June 28th, in her 86th year. She was born in Scotland and came to Canada 54 years ago and had resided in Aylmer and vicinity throughout those years.  Mrs. Benson suffered a stroke four weeks ago and was taken tot he St. Thomas hospital. She was a member of the Baptist church and of the ladies’ organizations of that church; a member of the Ladies’ Auxiliary to the Canadian Legion, Aylmer, and of Avalon Rebekah Lodge. Surviving are five sons: Herbert, St. Thomas; Joe, London; Frank, Brantford; Harold, Calgary, and Alfred of Sarnia.  Four of her sons served overseas during the was of 1914-18, and one son, Donald, was killed in action.  The remains were brought to the Atkinson Funeral Home here where the funeral service was held on Monday, July 1st, at 2 o’clock p.m. Rev. W. D. Stenlake had charge and was assisted by Rev. W. F. Price. There was a very large attendance.  Some beautiful flowers surrounded the casket, including a wreath from the family, baskets from Mr and Mrs Bird and the Get Acquainted Class; sprays from Mr and Mrs Geo. Watson, Walker Bros., Sarnia; A. A. Housely and staff; Ladies’ Auxiliary to the Canadian Legion; Mrs R. Roloson, Women’s Institute, Edith and Gordon, Hodges family, Mrs. Poole, Mr and Mrs H. Brown, Mrs. Scoyne, Miss Annie Pearson, Mr. J. Handley, Mrs. J. Frazer, Mrs. Andrews, Miss G. Andrews, Miss Brett, Miss Cole, Mrs. Phillmore, Mrs. Charlton, Mrs. Morton, R. Beale, Bill Gibson, Avalon Rebekah Lodge, Mrs. Grass, Mr and Mrs M. McNiece, Mr and Mrs J. Tuff, Aylmer Branch Canadian Legion, Walker Bros. Staff, Sarnia. The flower bearers were members of the Canadian Legion and pallbearers were A. W. Pierce, E. Gunstone, F. Kaiser, W. Stewart, Dr. J. B. Clark and E. S. Livermore.  Relatives attended the service from Sarnia, London, St. Thomas, and Brantford. Interment was made in the Aylmer cemetery.

Pte. Fred Levern Brooks

1045610 

Fred Levern Brooks was born on December 15, 1898 in Aylmer, the son of James Brooks and Anna Marilla Scriver.  Their family consisted of Addie (1888), James Edward (1891), Charles Lorne (1892), Roland Angus (1896), Fred (1898), Harry (1899), Myrtle Viola (1903), Walter Victor (1905), Alexander (1906), and Clarence (1909).  James & Anna are found in the 1901 Aylmer census (Div. 1, page 14), where James is a plasterer, and in 1911 where James’ occupation is teamster.

Fred enlisted for service on January 18, 1917 in St. Thomas.  He was a shoemaker by trade, and was not married.  At the time of his death on February 11, 1918, he was serving with the 20th Battalion of Canadian Infantry.  He is buried in Longuenesse (St. Omer) Souvenir Cemetery, near St. Omer, France. 

Fred’s father James (born 1863), died in 1921 and is buried in Orwell cemetery.  His widow Anna later married Joseph Scott, and died in Sarnia on October 27, 1928.  She was born at Richmond, Ontario in 1868, the daughter of James Scriver  and Sarah Willis.  She is buried beside her first husband in Orwell cemetery.

Fred’s mother’s obituary appeared in the Aylmer Express, November 1, 1928:

MRS. JOSEPH SCOTT BURIED AT ORWELL

Formerly Mrs. James Brooks, of Aylmer

Mrs. J. Scott died in Sarnia, Ont., on October 27th.  She was born in Richmond, Ont., 59 years ago and was twice married, her first husband being the late James Brooks. She leaves besides her husband, six sons and two daughters. The sons are James Brooks, of Marine City; Lorne and Harry, of Port Huron; Roland, of Aylmer, Walter of Toronto, and Clarence and Alex at home. The two daughters are Mrs. Frank Lucas, of Pontiac, Mich., and Mrs. Carl Ramsey, of Sarnia.  Three sisters also survive: Mrs. Roy Schrader, of Amherstburg; Mrs. Clunas and Mrs. Westover, of Aylmer; also six brothers, Henry and Edward Scriver, of Port Huron; Robert, of Stratford; Frank C., of Windsor; Dan of London, and Charlie, of Alberta.  She leaves also her aged father, James Scriver, of Aylmer, and a number of grandchildren and great grandchildren.  The funeral took place at 2:30 on Monday at the home of her son, Roland. The floral offerings included a pillow from her children; a broken circle from her brothers and sisters; a spray from her grandchildren and bouquets from friends.  There were relatives present from Pontiac, Port Huron, Marine City, Sarnia, Toronto, Brantford and Port Burwell.

H. Claire

William Clare

The name of W. H. Claire appears on the Aylmer Cenotaph, but it has been difficult to identify who this man was.  His name also appears on the memorial monument in Richmond cemetery.

The closest reference is found in the Book of Remembrance – William Clare, died March 17, 1916; service # 451350.  He was born Dec. 25, 1879 in Doxton, London, England.  He was 36 when he died and was the husband of Annie Louisa Clare of Toronto.  Occupation – navy.  He enlisted July 1, 1915.  He lists his next of kin as his wife, living at 593 Balbal Street, Davisville, Toronto.  The photo to the left is of this man.

A marriage was found in English records of a William Harold Clare to Annie Louisa Bottle in 1903 in Milton, Kent.  Annie was the widow of James Bottle who died in 1901.  Her maiden name was Lauder, and she was born in Chatham, Kent, England.  She had two small children, Violet & Alice Bottle at the time of her marriage to W. H. Clare. James & Annie are found on the 1901 England census in Sittingbourne, Kent.  H. Clare has not been identified on the 1901 England census.

They emigrated to Canada in 1905 and are found on the 1911 census in Toronto.  Their children were: Philip (1903), James (1905), Louisa (1907) and Winifred (1910).

Lance Corporal William Clare died on March 17, 1916 and is buried in Ridgewood Military Cemetery, Belgium.  He served with the 58th Battalion of Canadian Infantry.

It is not known what William Clare’s connection to Aylmer & Malahide is, if any.  It is possible he lived in this area between 1911 and 1915 when he enlisted, but no records have been found to prove that theory.  

It is possible that the above William Harold Clare is not the same person whose name appears on the Aylmer Cenotaph.

Lieutenant Robert William Ewart Christie

Ewart Christie

Ewart Christie was born on December 27, 1896 in Aylmer, the son of Gideon Robert Christie, merchant, and his wife Ada E. Miller.  They were married in Malahide township on March 2, 1876.  Gideon was born on Shetland Island in 1846, the son of Robert & Margaret, and emigrated to Canada in 1847.  Ada Miller was born in 1853, the daughter of Benjamin & Nancy Miller.  Both she and Gideon were residing in Malahide when they were married.
Besides Ewart, other children born to them were Alywnne (1877) and Ada (1880. The family is found on the 1901 Aylmer census (Div. 2, page 17), and in 1911, where only Ewart is still at home with his parents.

R. Christie was a well-known clothing merchant in Aylmer, being a partner in Christie & Caron Clothing Store, established in 1879. When the partnership dissolved in 1910, they were said to be the oldest firm in Aylmer.  G. R. Christie carried on the store alone, and celebrated 50 years in business in 1929.

A letter from Ewart to his mother was published in the Aylmer Express, September 12, 1918:

LIEUT. R. W. E. CHRISTIE IN THICK OF BIG FIGHT

Canadians Got Considerable Equipment When Huns Retreated

Has had Several Close Calls – Likes this Open Warfare Best

Lieut. Ewart Christie of the 2nd Can. Division of Signallers, has written the following interesting letter, enumerating some of his experiences in the recent fighting.

France, Aug. 12th, 1918

Dear Mother:
I think I wrote you a short note at the beginning of this show but did not number it, nor will I.  It wasn’t worth it.  This time I’ll try and answer the four letters which have come in from home all through the show.  It is funny how the mail comes in right through a show this way. An hour before the attack on Thursday morning, just when I was getting things in shape for moving off, in come a letter from a friend in England, which by the way, I didn’t get a chance to read till night.

You have kept a correct record of the letters you have sent me, but father is one astray, as my records show one more received from him than his number indicates.  Didn’t that “little bite” of General Haig’s surprise you? It certainly surprised the Hun.  Our division captured a Hun field battery intact. They had not fired a shot, and were asleep in their dugouts, dead to the world. We also got a Boche Regimental headquarters, which corresponds to our brigade.  Yesterday we had our headquarters in a Boche divisional headquarters, so you see how we have come.

I am enclosing a letter found near the old front line after our advance, but this is the only thing that is small enough to send, and I don’t suppose it is very interesting. I am carrying a Boche water bottle, not having one of my own. We captured lots of guns and all kinds of canteens, with honey, cigars, cigarettes, biscuits, and everything they keep at canteens.  I don’t think there is anyone in the whole brigade that didn’t get a box of cigars out of it. We have a whole case of honey too. The Boche was certainly taken by surprise.

The wireless people got all kinds of equipment for themselves, and we ourselves have lots of Hun phones, and the old telephone exchange.

The first day was more or less a wallcover, although the fighting was very severe in some spots, but since then the opposition has been much greater, and consequently progress where there has been any, has been slow and costly. The first day we lost some of our staff, a bit of bad luck as four of them got it from the same shell – two wounded and two killed. The first day the fog in the morning was very dense, and while it helped us in most ways, it enable some Boche M.G.’s to keep their positions till the Tanks passed.

I never saw roads so congested in my life as the trails around about No Man’s Land we we went across.  Our Brigade was the last wave so we had to march several miles before coming into action and the transports that crowded along the roads was terrible.  Tanks, big ones, and whippets, cavalry, artillery, engineers, and M.G. and infantry transports, the infantry themselves having gone over between the roads in small parties till they came into action.  I lost two men, both attached to me from Kerr’s wireless section, one wounded in the hand, slightly, stayed with me for a day, but his hand began to swell, and he had to go back. The other got it a little worse, but not badly enough to make Blighty I should think. They both got it from shells before they arrived at the front, and oh, yes, I had one runner slightly wounded in the ankle, but he won’t get beyond the C.C.S., I should think.

Communication on the whole, went beautifully as we advanced so rapidly that the enemy guns could not get into position fast enough.  However, the second day it was pretty bad as I went forward. Twice I had to flop for M.G.’s just grazing various portions of my anatomy, with my nose in the ground, and breathing through my ears. Once the shelling was pretty bad too, and I got out of a rifle pit I was in, just in time to see it blown up.

It’s funny how local the effect of a shell frequently is: often it won’t hit people 20 yards away, and sometimes it gets then six or seven hundred yards away.  I really enjoyed the whole thing.  It’s farm more exciting and interesting this open warfare, then trench warfare, and I wish we could keep him permanently on the move this way.

Just at present, we are having some rest; perhaps a few hours, perhaps longer.  “Ours not to reason why”.  Last night was the first night that I have had more than two hours sleep since the 6th, and it was very welcome.  I have plenty of socks just now, thanks.  Well, I can’t think of anything else this time, so I will quite.
With love, Your son, Ewart

Ewart attended McMaster University in Hamilton, and was a student when he enlisted on May 6, 1917 in Barrie.  He had served two years in the 20th Regiment of the C.O.T.C. militia.  He was assigned to the 177th Battalion.  At the time of his death on September 21, 1918 at the age of 21, he was serving in the 2nd Division Signal Coy. of the Canadian Engineers.  He is buried in the Sun Quarry Cemetery, at Cherisy, France.

Announcement of Ewart’s death appeared in the Aylmer Express, September 26, 1918:

A cablegram was received just as we went to press yesterday stating that Signalling Lieut. Ewart Christie, son of Mr and Mrs G. R. Christie had paid the supreme sacrifice. The news is a terrible shock to all Aylmer, particularly his mother, who is in a delicate condition.

A photo with the accompanying caption appeared in the Aylmer Express, October 3, 1918:

Lieut. R. W. E. Christie, who paid the supreme sacrifice in France on Sept. 21st.  A cable was received on Friday last from Miss Walton, a cousin of Mrs. Wyn Christie, whose home is in Wolsingham, Eng., stating that Ewart was killed on September 21st and buried on the 22nd in  Cherisy Cemetery. The cable was a great comfort to the family.  Cherisy is about on a line between Arras and Cambrai, about 6 miles from Arras.  Ewart spent a week very pleasantly at the Waltons, when on leave about two months ago.

Notice of his death also appeared in the St. Thomas Times-Journal, September 26, 1918:
EWART CHRISTIE, OF AYLMER, KILLED

Brief Message Brings News of Death In Action of the Son of G.R. Christie

Aylmer, Sept. 26 – A great sorrow was felt on Wednesday afternoon for G. R. Christie and family when the cablegram came stating that his son, Lieut. Ewart Christie, had been killed in France.  The notice came to Rev. Mr. Mitchell, with the request that he break it to the family. That was all the particulars mentioned.  Lieut. Christie was in the Engineers, and had been in the service more than three years.  He was a popular young man and had a host of friends here.

Two letters to Ewart’s parents from comrades, following his death, were published in the Aylmer Express, October 17, 1918:

LIEUT. R. W. E. CHRISTIE WAS POPULAR AMONG HIS

BROTHER OFFICERS AND MEN

Mr. G. R. Christie has received the following letters which show the sorrow felt at the death of his son, Lieut. R. W. E. Christie, and the high regard in which he was held by his brother officers and men:

France, September 22, 1918

Dear Mr. Christie:
It is with a very heavy heart that I have to write you about your son’s death.  He was one of the brightest and most popular officers we had, and his death has caused a gap in our ranks that will not be filled for many a day.  I was called in to see the officer commanding the division, who expressed his deep sorrow, as did all the other Staff Officers who knew him.

The circumstances of his death are briefly as follows: He was starting out from Brigade Headquarters with his Sergeant to visit one of the batteries, when the Boche started to shell the area.  He waited until they had finished, and then moved on again. As he was nearing the battery, another salvo was sent in. They tried to take cover, but the shells landed beside them, killing your son instantly and mortally wounding the Sergeant. We brought his body back yesterday into the rear area, and buried him in a British Military cemetery, just near the little place that was over the village of Cherisy.

We are collecting together his kit and personal effects, and will forward them to you as soon as possible.  It is with the deepest regret that I have to write you this, and his brother officers have asked me to express their heartfelt sympathy and regret also.  If there are any further details I can send you, or anything else I can do, please let me know and I will try and fulfill it to the best of my ability.

Yours sincerely, D. H. Macfarline, Capt. 2nd Can. Div. Signal Co.

France, Sept. 23rd, 1918

Dear Mr. Christie:
It is one of the hardest tasks in the world to adequately express one’s feelings when one has lost a dear friend and work mate.  Until recently we have been very fortunate in this company as regards casualties, so it was a great shock to us to learn on the 21st that “Chris” had been hit, and his sergeant also. They were on their way to a battery which was being shelled. The shelling died down, so they thought they could get in before it started again, but an unlucky whizzbang landed near them. The boy did not know he was hit, for a small piece of shrapnel went through his heart. Death was instantaneous.

We laid him to rest in a little military cemetery at Cherisy alongside the gallant boys who fell in taking the “Drocourt Line” . The sergeant with him died in the casualty clearing station. He was also a splendid boy, out here three years, and waiting for a commission the last six months.  How we shall miss the cherry smile, and happy disposition of our old pal.  He was a great help to those who came in touch with him and we became very fond of him.

Please accept for yourself and Mrs. Christie the heartfelt sympathy of the officers and men of the Artillery signals.

Yours very truly,
R. McKinnon, Lieut. C.E.O.C. Signals 2nd Can. Div. Artillery

Ewart’s mother died on March 6, 1932 in her 79th year, and his father passed away on August 21, 1937 in his 91st year. They are buried in Aylmer cemetery.

Mrs. Christie’s obituary appeared in the Aylmer Express, March 10, 1932:

MRS. G. R. CHRISTIE PASSES AWAY

Was a Resident of Aylmer for 52 Years

In the passing of Mrs. G. R. Christie, Aylmer has lost one of its oldest and most beloved citizens, for she has been a resident here for more than half a century.  Her death occurred at her home on Harvey street on Sunday, March 6th, following a serious illness of some weeks.  Mrs. Christie had been an invalid for fifteen years, but nevertheless maintained her cheery spirit until the last. She was a member of the Aylmer Baptist church, and always took an active part in church work until her illness, which confined her to her home. Despite her affliction she maintained her interest in the community, and was happy in causing many little acts of kindness to be arranged for those in need or in distress.  

Her maiden name was Ada E. Miller, and she was born on the Miller homestead, Dingle street, east of Aylmer, in 1853, being therefore in her 79th year. She was married to Mr. Christie, March 2nd 1876, and for fifty-two years, this popular couple have made their home in Aylmer, and celebrated their 56th wedding anniversary on March 2nd last.  

Besides her sorrowing husband, she is survived by one daughter, Mrs. E. H. Smith, of Aylmer; five grandchildren, and one sister, Mrs. W. Wisson, Dingle street, Malahide. The youngest son, Lieut. Ewart Christie, was killed overseas in 1918 in the Great War, and the eldest son, Wynn Christie, died in 1928, through an illness caused by his war experience.  

The funeral service was held at her late residence on Tuesday afternoon, at 2:30 and was attended by many relatives and friends. Rev. H. Edgar Allen had charge and was assisted by Rev. J. B. Brown, also of Aylmer.  During the service, Mr. James Barnum sang, “Beyond”, unaccompanied.

The pallbearers were R. E. Mills, C. M. Clarke, C. B. Brown, Captain Johnston, W. H. McGregor and Chas. Gunstone.  Flower bearers were Dr. F. H. Miller, Blake Miller, A. Treadwell and E. Wisson.  Interment took place in the family plot in the Aylmer cemetery.

The following were among the floral tributes: pillow, the family; wreath, the neighbours; sprays, grandchildren Kenneth, Alwyn, Harold, Edith and Alice; Mr and Mrs. Blake Miller, Aylmer; Baptist Choir; Robert Wallace and family; Mr and Mrs Harley Crosby; Mrs. Ada Closs and Jack; Mr and Mrs W. Wisson, and sons.

Mr. Christie’s obituary appeared in the Aylmer Express, August 26, 1937:

R. CHRISTIE WAS AYLMER’S OLDEST BUSINESS MAN

Died at His Home on Harvey St. in His 91st Year

Former Mayor Was a Native of the Shetland Islands

Gideon Robert Christie, one of Aylmer’s best known and most beloved citizens, died early Saturday evening, August 21st, at his home on Harvey street.  His death was the result of a stroke which he suffered some two weeks previously.
R. Christie was born in Burra Isle, of the Shetland Group, Scotland, on September 2nd 1846, and had he lived another two weeks would have been 91 years old.  He came to Canada when less than a year old, and his parents settled on land east of Aylmer.  Mr. Christie had spent his entire life in Aylmer and this district and he was loved and respected by everyone who knew him.

On February 10th 1879, G. R. Christie and his half-brother, the late William R. Caron, formed a partnership and opened a store on the south side of Talbot street, where the Dominion Store is now located, and where they sold clothing, gent’s furnishings, boots and shoes. The business grew, and in a few years they were compelled to move their boots and shoes to another store. The first move was to the store now occupied by C. B. Munn, and later in the store now occupied by ‘The Arcade’ on the north side of Talbot street. In 1906 Christie & Caron were forced to vacate their clothing store when the Farthings store was enlarged and remodeled.  They then moved their entire stock under one roof and enlarged the present ‘Arcade’ store, making it one of the finest stores of the kind in any town in western Ontario. The firm of Christie & Caron was dissolved following the death of Mr. Caron in the fall of 1913, and the business was then carried on by Mr. Christie with his son, the late Alwyne Christie, and his son-in-law, E. H. Smith, as the firm of The G. R. Christie Co.  In 1931 Mr. Christie sold his stock to ‘The Arcade’ and leased his store, retiring from business.  Thus he was continuously in business here from 1879 to 1931, a total of 52 years.  He was Aylmer’s oldest business man, all other men who were in business when he started in 1879, having long since passed on.

While he was a busy man, Mr. Christie found time to give his services freely to his town and to his church. He served some years on the town council and was several times mayor. For more than half a century he was a member of the Baptist church and rarely missed a service, taking an active part in all church activities.  He was also a loyal member of Aylmer Lodge No. 94 I.O.O.F.  A great lover of good, clean sport, he loved a game and whether it was baseball, cricket, football, basketball, hockey or bowling on the green. It always had his generous support and he rarely missed a game. He attended a bowling tournament and played every game a year ago, the tournament being held to celebrate his 90th birthday. G. R. Christie was a popular business man, a loyal citizen, a loving husband and father, a good sport and a Christian gentleman.

His wife predeceased him five and a half years ago. Surviving is one daughter, Mrs. E. H. Smith, Harvey street.  One son, Alwynne, died nine years ago, and another son, Lieut. Ewart Christie, was killed in action in France in 1918.  Four grandsons and one granddaughter also survive: Kenneth and Harold Christie, Aylmer; Alwynne Christie, Collingwood; Glen Smith, Toronto, and Miss Helen Smith, Aylmer.

A private funeral service was held at his late residence on Tuesday afternoon at 2 o’clock followed by a public service in the Baptist church at 2:30, where a large number of citizens gathered to pay a final tribute of respect.  Rev. J. W. Duncan, pastor of the church, had charge of the services and was assisted by Rev. W. D. Stenlake of St. Paul’s church and Rev. J. B. Brown. Rev. Stenlake read the 71st Psalm and Rev. Brown led in prayer. In his address, Rev. Duncan referred to Mr. Christie’s long life.  Not only was he blessed with long years, but his life had breadth, depth and height.  Christ was manifest in him and he has set a great example for his fellow citizens to follow. Miss Dora McConnell presided at the organ and the church choir led in the singing of the hymn, “For all the Saints Who From Their Labours Rest”. 

The pallbearers were Mr. Christie’s four grandsons: Glen Smith, Kenneth, Alwynne and Harold Christie, and two grand-nephews, Elvin Wisson and Fred Haggan. There were many beautiful floral tributes and the flower bearers were Orman Derrough, Capt. Edward Johnston, John Wilson, Ern. Millard, E. D. Bowlby and Blake Miller. Interment took place in the family plot in Aylmer cemetery.

Relatives and friends attended the funeral from Toronto, Collingwood, Brownsville, Ann Arbor, Mich.; Simcoe, Copenhagen, Sparta and Aylmer.

Pte. David Leslie Doan

2458349  Lesley Doan

David Leslie (Lesley) Doan was born on August 24, 1897 in Yarmouth Township, the son of Morris Doan, a farm labourer, and his wife Sarah Jane Potts.  They were married on November 11, 1886 in Sparta.  Other children born to them were: Rosa (1889), Cecil (1892), Myrtle (1893); Alvin Earl (May-July 1896);  Morris Lyman (1900, lot 8, concession 4 Yarmouth); Pearl Lavina (1902, concession 12 Yarmouth); Harry Milton (1906); and William (1908).  The family is found on the 1901 Yarmouth township census (Div. 7, page 9), and in 1911 in South Dorchester.

Lesley’s mother, Sarah Jane Potts, was born on Oct. 12, 1872 in Mapleton, and died May 15, 1927 on concession 6, Yarmouth Township.   His father Morris was born in Yarmouth.

Lesley’s Attestation Paper is not available on the National Archives of Canada website. The newspaper article telling of his death states he enlisted with the 91st Battalion.  He died on September 3, 1918 while serving with the 47th Battalion of Canadian Infantry.  His name appears on the Vimy Memorial, Pas de Calais, France.

Information gathered by the Elgin Military Museum states that Pte. Doan was killed at Drocourt, Queant Line, France.

Notice of his death appeared in the St. Thomas Times-Journal, September 16, 1918:

PTE. D. L. DOAN, OF MAPLETON, KILLED

Mapleton, Sept. 15 – (Special) – Mr and Mrs M. L. Doan, of this place, have received official word of the death in action of their son, Pte. David Leslie Doan.  Pte. Doan, who went overseas with the 91st Battalion, had been in France over three months.  He formerly worked for D. D. Finch.

Further information was printed in the September 17, 1918 issue of the Times-Journal:

PTE. DOAN IS FIRST MAPLETON MAN TO FALL

His Mother Received Letter From Him Only Last Saturday, When He Was Well

Mapleton, Sept. 17 – Mrs. M. Doan received an official telegram this morning that her son, Pte. David Leslie Doan, infantry, was killed in action on Sept. 8, somewhere in France.  Leslie left here about Dec. 14, 1917. His mother received a letter from him on Saturday, dated Aug. 27, in which he stated he was well and fine, but busy.  The family have the sympathy of the community in their bereavement.  This is the first fatality among the boys who went from this locality. 

Lesley’s parents are buried in Mapleton cemetery, where his name also appears on the monument:

Pte. John Cameron Dunning

204152 John Dunning

John Cameron Dunning was born June 9, 1886 in Aylmer, the son of James Thomas Dunning and Victoria Adelaide Procunier.  They were married on April 18, 1883 in Straffordville, where James was a farmer for a number of years before moving to Aylmer.  Other children in the family included: Olive Jacquette (1884); George (twin brother of John); Imogene Victoria (1894); and William Forsyth (1899).  The family is found in the Aylmer census in 1901 (Div. 2, page 6), where James is a handyman and Victoria is a dressmaker; and in 1911 (Div. 2, page 8), where James is employed as a delivery clerk.

John enlisted for service on January 12, 1916 in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan.  His occupation is given as teamster, and he was not married.

At the time of his death on April 16, 1917 at the age of 31, he was serving with the 13th Battalion of Canadian Infantry, in a Quebec Regiment.  His name appears on the Vimy Memorial.

Information gathered by the Elgin Military Museum states that Pte. Dunning served in the Canadian 96th Battalion, the 92nd Battalion in England, and the 13th Battalion in France.  He fought in the battles of Somme and Vimy Ridge, and was killed at Vimy.

Announcement of his death appeared in the Aylmer Express, May 17, 1917, accompanied by a photo:

Pte. John Cameron Dunning, son of Mr and Mrs James Dunning, of Aylmer, word of whose death was received here last Sunday.  Pte. Dunning, who enlisted with the 96th Highlanders at Saskatoon, Sask., and went overseas last fall, was killed in action on April 16th. He was unable to come home before leaving Canada, which he had planned to do on his way east to the seaboard.  It is more than seven years since he left home to go out West. He is survived by his parents, a twin brother, George N. Dunning, superintendent of the Aylmer Shoe Co., and Gunner William Dunning, now in an English hospital; also two sisters, Mrs. Ed McKenney, of Buffalo, and Miss Jean, at home.  A memorial service will be held at St. Paul’s church on Sunday evening, May 27th for Pte. Dunning and Pte. Orion Garner, son of Fred Garner, of this place, who was also killed in action about the same time.

A letter written by the Major of John’s battalion following his death was printed in the Aylmer Express, August 16, 1917:

PTE. JOHN DUNNING FELL AFTER GALLANT VICTORY

Mrs. James Dunning has received the following particulars of the death of her son, who fell following the battle at Vimy Ridge, from the Major of his Battalion:

R.H.C., France, July 29, 1917

Dear Mrs. Dunning:
I am sorry not to have been able to write you sooner about your son, Pte. J. C. Dunning of my Company.  However, I was wounded myself a few days before he was killed and all the other officers have since been casualties, so nobody was left to write you.

On April 16th the regiment was digging a trench in a newly captured area in front of Vimy Ridge, under a heavy shelling by the enemy.  It was on the road running north from Willerval, and about half-a-mile from that place your son was hit in the upper leg and died almost instantly from shock, suffering no pain.  He was buried in a little cemetery we made near the road, for a number of our men.

This sounds a very crude statement of facts, but I know that while better than knowing nothing, it will also make you very proud to think that your lad died in the front line of battle and in the moment of victory, as we had just driven the Germans from Vimy Ridge.

You may be sure that we here appreciate your loss, as we know what a fine lad he was, and how well he fought.  I hope that this account of his gallant death may be of some comfort to you. With sincerest sympathy, yours very sincerely, I. M. R. Sinclair, Major, O. C. O., 13th Bat., R. Highlanders of Canada

John’s parents continued to live in Aylmer, where James died December 16, 1929.  Victoria survived him by a few years, passing away on November 18, 1932.

John’s name appears on a monument with his parents in Aylmer cemetery:

“James T.,  1853 – 1929; Victoria A., 1860 – 1932;  Pte. John C., Born 1886, Killed in action,  1917.  DUNNING”

James Dunning’s obituary appeared in the Aylmer Express, December 19, 1929:

JAMES DUNNING DIES VERY SUDDENLY IN WINDSOR

Aylmer Man was Visiting His Daughter When He Collapsed in His Chair

James Dunning, of Aylmer, died very suddenly on Monday morning, December 16th, at the home of his daughter, Mrs. E. McKinney, in Windsor.  On Sunday he was around as usual and went out for a walk around the city.  On Monday morning, it is reported that Mr. Dunning suddenly collapsed, while sitting in a chair. He was an active man for his age, being past the allotted span and was apparently in good health.  Mr and Mrs Dunning recently went to Windsor to visit their daughter, and Mrs. Dunning has been seriously ill and confined to her bed for some days.  The deceased had been a resident of Aylmer for many, many years, and a resident of Elgin county all his life, coming here from the Richmond district. For many years he was employed in the hardware store of J. H. Glover, later conducting a grocery store of his own, retiring some few years ago. He was a man who had many friends, who are shocked to learn of his sudden death. Mr. Dunning was a member of St. Paul’s United Church and an active member of the Brotherhood of that Sunday school.  He is survived by his wife, two daughters, Mrs. Ed. McKinney, of Windsor; and Mrs. Walker Zimmerman, of Toronto; two sons, George, of Galt; and Will, of London.  Another son, John, paid the supreme sacrifice in France in the Great War.  Mrs. H. L. Stratton, of London, and Mrs. Edward Martin, of Aylmer, are nieces.  The remains were brought to Aylmer yesterday, and the funeral service was held at the home of Mrs. Martin, Sydenham street, at 2:30 p.m., conducted by Rev. Waldemar Williams.  Interment took place in the family plot in the Aylmer cemetery.

Victoria’s obituary appeared in the Aylmer Express, November 24, 1932:

MRS. JAS. DUNNING

Victoria Adelaide Dunning, widow of the late James Dunning, died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Ed. McKenney, John street north, Aylmer, on Friday afternoon, November 18th, following a critical illness of several weeks.  For the past six years Mrs. Dunning had not enjoyed good health. She was born on October 14th, 1860, in Bayham Township, but for forty two years had been a resident of Aylmer. She was a faithful wife, loving mother, and a true friend, and will be mourned by a host of friends in Aylmer and this community.  She was a member of St. Paul’s United Church. Two daughters and two sons survive: Mrs. Ed. McKenney, Aylmer; Mrs. W. W. Zimmerman, Toronto; George N. Dunning, Galt; and William F. Dunning, London; seven grandchildren; one sister, and two brothers: Mrs. Burdick, in Michigan; James Procunier, of Straffordville; and Charles Procunier, of Skeeny River, B.C.  Her husband predeceased her some years ago, and one son, John, who paid the supreme sacrifice in France during the war.  The funeral service was held at the Atkinson Funeral Home on Monday at 1 p.m., and was in charge of Rev. G. E. Wood, of St. Paul’s church. During the service a favourite hymns, “God Will Take Care of You”, was sung. This was led by Mr. C. S. Bridgman, with Mr. C. L. Parker, as accompanist.  There were many beautiful flowers which included the following: pillow, the family; sprays and wreaths from Clara and May and family; James Procunier, Mr and Mrs Frank Procunier, Mr and Mrs Keast, Miss Evelyn McConkey, the Strattons, Mr and Mrs J. W. Cochran and family; Mrs. F. Lindsay, Fred, Vera and Mrs D. Clark; Mr and Mrs J. D. Pound and Ellen; Mr and Mrs Karl Gruetzner; Mr and Mrs S. F. Ball; Mrs. McCaulley and Helen; Mr and Mrs Hill; Mrs. Elizabeth Ogg; Employees of Silverwoods, London; The Club, Galt; Girls’ fitting room, Getty & Scott, Galt. The flower bearers were four nephews of Mrs. Dunning: Neil McConkey, Frank Procunier, Fred Procunier and George Procunier, of Straffordville. The pallbearers were six members of St. Paul’s Brotherhood: C. S. Bridgman, W. J. Mann, F. W. Kaiser, D. J. Teeple, A. Gillet and C. Bowen. Interment took place in the family plot in Aylmer cemetery.  Relatives and friends from a distance who attended the service were: Mr and Mrs Geo. N. Dunning, and son, George Cameron, of Galt; Mr and Mrs W. W. Zimmerman, of Toronto; Mr and Mrs Will Dunning, London; Mr and Mrs Frank Procunier, Fred Procunier, George Procunier, and Neil McConkey, of Straffordville; Evelyn McConkey, Brownsville; Mr and Mrs J. W. Cochran and family, London; Mrs. Annie House, Mt. Elgin; Earl Campbell, St. Thomas; Mr and Mrs R. Herbert, Springfield; Chas. Ramsay and family, Pt. Burwell, and many from Aylmer and vicinity.

Pte.  Charles Ernest Elworthy

G / 5349  Charles Elworthy

The name C. E. Elworthy appears on the Aylmer Cenotaph, but information on him was very difficult to track down.  His name does not appear in the records of the Veterans Affairs of Canada, nor is there an Attestation paper for him.  Records of those serving in regiments from the United States were also checked but no record of him could be found.

However, an article was found in the St. Thomas Journal, October 7, 1916 regarding men from Trinity Anglican Church, Aylmer who had been killed in action or who were currently serving overseas.  (the entire article can be found at the beginning of this volume).  One of those listed as having been killed in action is Charles Elworthy.  

A search was then conducted in the records of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, and it is believed this man has now been identified.  It appears that Charles Elworthy did not enlist with a Canadian Regiment, but probably returned to his native England to enlist.

At the time of his death on October 14, 1915 Charles Ernest Elworthy was a private in the Royal Sussex Regiment, 2nd Battalion.  He was 23 years old.  His service number was G / 5349.  He is buried in Noeux-Les-Mines Communal Cemetery in France.  It is recorded that he was a son of the late Joseph & Elizabeth Elworthy, and was a native of Claygate, Surrey, England.

A birth registration was found for a Charles Ernest Elworthy in the 4th quarter (Oct to Dec) of 1891 in the District of Kingston, County of Middlesex-Surrey.

The family is found in the 1901 England census in the parish of Thames Ditton, Surrey, England.  Their address is 3 Rose Cottage, Station Road.  The father of the family, Joseph Elworthy, age 41, is a farm labourer, born in Epsom, Surrey.  His wife, Elizabeth, age 44, was born in Yorksfould, Suffolk. Their children (all born in Claygate, Surrey) were: Eveline, 24; William H., 19; Ellen J., 14; Charles E., 9; Marion, 6; Herbert J., 11 mos; and also living with them was a grandson, Cecil J. Mortimer, age 2.

A marriage registration was found for a Joseph Elworthy  to Elizabeth Mutimer  in 1880 in Kingston, Middlesex-Surrey.  Elizabeth’s death was registered in the District of Kingston, Middlesex-Surrey in 1903. Joseph’s death was registered in the District of Hampstead, Greater London, Middlesex in 1906.

Charles Elworthy was an orphan at the age of 15, but it is not known when he emigrated to Canada. His name does not appear in the database of “Home Children” compiled by the National Archives of Canada. He obviously settled in Aylmer and was a member of Trinity Anglican Church. He cannot be found on the 1911 census in the area, and it is therefore possible he was still in England at that time.

Pte.  Manley Benson Flueling

3135916  Manley Flueling

Manley Benson Flueling was born on January 9, 1897 in Dereham Township, Oxford County, the son of Peter Flueling and Mary Irwin.  Peter was a farmer living in Dereham at the time of his marriage on September 26, 1882 in East Flamborough, Wentworth County, to Mary Irwin, a resident of Trafalgar Township, Halton County.  They farmed in Dereham Township where the family appears on the 1901 census (Div. 5, page 2).  By 1911, they had moved to Lot 3, Concession 3, Malahide Township in the Mount Salem area, where they appear there on the census (Div. 10, page 15).  Other children in the family included: Roy E. (1884); Louisa A. (1891); and Mary Melinda (1894).

Manley was recruited for service on May 17, 1918.  His address at the time was R.R. #1 Port Burwell, where he was a farmer. He lists his next of kin as his father, also at R.R. #1 Port Burwell. He states he was born at Ostrander in Oxford County, and was not married.

Manley died from pneumonia on October 16, 1918 while serving with the 4th (Reserve) Battalion of Canadian Infantry, Central Ontario Regiment.  He is buried in Plymouth (Efford) Cemetery in Devon, England.

Notice of his death appeared in the Aylmer Express, October 24, 1918:

Mr and Mrs Peter Flueling received a cablegram on Thursday of last week saying their son Pte. Manley Flueling had reached England safely but was in a hospital seriously ill with pneumonia.  The neighbourhood was shocked on Monday to hear the sad news that Mr and Mrs Peter Flueling had received another cablegram stating that their son, Pte. Manley Flueling had died on Wednesday, Oct. 16 from pneumonia.  He leaves besides his father and mother two sisters and one brother, namely: Mrs. Louisa Buck, at Mt. Salem, Mrs. Melinda Buck, St. Thomas, and Roy, at home.

Manley’s parents continued to live at Mount Salem where Peter died in 1924.  Mary survived him by a number of years, passing away in 1946 at the age of 86.  They are buried in Mount Elgin Cemetery, Dereham Township, Oxford County.

Peter’s obituary appeared in the Aylmer Express, February 7, 1924 in the Mount Salem news:

The funeral of the late Peter Fluelling was held on Friday of last week, at the home of his daughter, Mrs. W. Buck, 48 Alexander Street, St. Thomas. Burials at the Mausoleum. Rev. A. E. Shaw, assisted at the service.  Those attending the funeral from here were: Mr and Mrs Morley Buck, Doris and Hugh Buck; Mr and Mrs Thomas Doolittle, Mr. Roy Fluelling, Mr and Mrs Geo. Buck, Mr and Mrs Archie Buck, Misses Florence and May Buck, Mr and Mrs Russell Irish, Mr and Mrs Frank Irish, Mr and Mrs John McKnight, Mr and Mrs Fred Doolittle, Mr and Mrs Addison Boyd.

Mary’s obituary appeared in the Aylmer Express, September 5, 1946:

MRS. MARY FLUELLING PASSES AFTER LONG ILLNESS

Succumbs at Daughter’s Home in St. Thomas

Mrs. Mary Fluelling, widow of Peter Fluelling, died Sunday afternoon at the residence of her daughter, Mrs. W. H. Buck, 48 Alexandria Avenue, St. Thomas, after a long illness.  Born in Carlisle 86 years ago, Mrs. Fluelling came to St. Thomas in 1920 on the retirement of her husband from the farm.  They had been well-known farmers in Oxford and Elgin counties.  Mrs. Fluelling, who was predeceased by her husband in 1923, was a member of Grace United Church. She also belonged to the Women’s Missionary Society of Grace United Church, and the Women’s Association. Throughout her life she had taken a keen interest in the work of the church.  Mrs. Fluelling is survived by two daughters: Mrs. Morley Buck, Mt. Salem, and Mrs. W. H. Buck, 48 Alexandria Avenue, St. Thomas; by one son, Roy Fluelling, Mt. Salem; by two brothers, John Irwin, Hamilton, and George Irwin, Olympia, Washington; by three grandchilren and three great-grandchildren.  The funeral was held from the P. R. Williams Funeral Home, St. Thomas, on Wednesday afternoon at 2 o’clock with Rev. G. C. Raymer of Grace United Church in charge.  Interment was made in the family plot in the Mount Elgin Cemetery.

Pte.  Charles Arthur Wellesley Forbes

A / 863  Charles Forbes

Charles Arthur Wellesley Forbes was born on June 18, 1893 in Newcastle, Australia, to Dr. Arthur Daniel Forbes, M.D.,  and his wife Beatrice Agnes.

Arthur emigrated to Canada about 1911 and was employed as a farm labourer by Charles M. & Emma Brown in Bayham Township. He appears on the 1911 census with them.  

Arthur enlisted for service on February 11, 1915 in London.  He lists his next of kin as his mother, Beatrice Forbes, of Forest, Ontario.  He was not married.
He died on June 13, 1916 while serving with the 1st Company of Canadian Machine Gun Corps, at the age of 21.  His name appears on the Menin Gate Memorial, in Ypres,  Belgium.

Announcement of Arthur’s death, containing a photo and the following details of his service, appeared in the Aylmer Sun, October 5, 1916:

Pte. Arthur W. Forbes came to this country five years ago from England and lived with Chas. M. Brown at Corinth, for four years and was well known and liked by all.  He enlisted with the 33rd and on arriving in France was attached to a machine gun section. He made the supreme sacrifice for King and Country on June 13th at Verdun.  He was fortunate enough to meet a brother in Flanders, who enlisted in Australia. They had not met in years until on the battlefield.  Pte. Forbes’ mother, Mrs. B. A. Forbes, resides at Alvinston.  On another page will be found a letter from Lieut. Griffin to Mrs. Forbes.

LETTER FROM LIEUT. GRIFFIN

Dear Mrs. Forbes
Arthur Forbes was not smashed [three words illegible].  He was lying beside his comrades when we found him with [illegible] gun? buried beside them which were loaded and ready to fire.  We carried them off separately and did all we could to give them a decent grave under the awful circumstances where we were working.  Your son was a great favorite in the 1st [two words illegible] Co., with both officers and men, and he was always willing to do anything that was asked of him and was always cheerful and bright and a good example of how a soldier should behave under the most trying conditions any troops were ever asked to endure.  I do hope your other two boys will come home safely to you and you have my sincere sympathy in the loss of a true and gallant boy.   S. H. GRIFFIN

Arthur’s name appears on the cenotaphs in Aylmer and Port Burwell.

Pte. Edward James Fright

189881 Edward Fright

photo courtesy of Elgin County Archives

The Aylmer Cenotaph records the name of “E. Freight”, but records indicate that the spelling of his surname was actually “Fright”.  The photo included here was found in the Scott-Sefton Collection at the Elgin County Archives, but identified with only the surname “Fright”.

Edward James Fright was born on December 21, 1896 in Birchington on Sea, Kent, England, the son of Edward James Fright and Christiana Brand.  They were married in 1894 in Kent, England, but Edward died soon after in 1898 at the age of 32, leaving Christiana with two small children, Edward & Alfred.  They are found on the 1901 England census in Birchington, Kent.  Sadly, Christiana died the following year (1902), leaving her two boys orphans. They were taken in by Dr. Barnardo’s home for orphans for a few years, but departed for Canada in 1907.  Both Edward James, age 10, and his brother Alfred Thomas, age 7, left England on the ship Dominion, and arrived in Canada on March 5, 1907.  They eventually made their way to the home of William & Mary J. Corless in South Dorchester where they appear with them on the 1911 census, as domestic servants.

Edward enlisted for service on January 1, 1916 in St. Thomas, giving his address as Brownsville Post Office.  He lists his next of kin as Alfred T. Fright, his brother, Springfield Post Office.  His occupation was a bank clerk.  He joined the Springfield branch of the Traders Bank of Canada on February 1, 1912, but was working at the Brownsville branch of the bank when he enlisted. He was not married.

Edward was killed at Passchendaele on October 26, 1917 while serving with the 58th Battalion of Canadian Infantry, at the age of 21. His name appears on the Menin Gate Memorial in Ypres, Belgium.

His brother Alfred Thomas and wife Gladys are buried in Forest Lawn Cemetery, London.

Pte. Orion Garner

235194  Orion Garner

Orion Garner was born August 4, 1891 in Malahide Township, the son of Frederick Garner & Alberta Howse, who farmed in the Copenhagen area.  They were married on March 23, 1887 in Napier, Metcalfe Township, Middlesex County, although both were residing in Malahide at the time.  After their marriage, they farmed in Malahide, but moved to Yarmouth Township where they appear on the 1901 census.  Alberta died in Aylmer on April 7, 1908 from consumption, and later that year Fred was married to a widow,  Mary Emeline (Pero) Paupst in Aylmer on Dec. 23, 1908. Fred & Emeline are found on the 1911 Malahide census.

Other children in the family were: Allavelle (1880); Carrie Alberta (1897); Frederick Franklin (1902), and Blake (1905).

Orion became a printer and moved to Colgate, Saskatchewan where he was living when he enlisted on July 1, 1916.   He was killed in action on April 9, 1917 at the age of 25 while serving with the 78th Battalion of Canadian Infantry, Manitoba Regiment.  His name appears on the Vimy Memorial. 

Announcement of his death appeared in the Aylmer Express, May 10, 1917:

The sad news was received here last Sunday of the death of Pte. Orion Garner, who was killed in action in France. Pte. Garner, who is a son of Mr. Fred Garner, of this place, attended the Aylmer High School. He later learned the printing trade at the Express office and went to the Canadian West where he owned and published a newspaper until he enlisted last spring. He went overseas with one of the Western battalions last winter, and after but a few weeks in the trenches has paid the supreme sacrifice on April 9th.  Just before going across Pte. Garner paid a short visit home. Another Aylmer man, Pte. Fred Rogers, son of Amos Rogers, Talbot street west, was also reported wounded on the same date. Both these men enlisted in the west and went overseas at the same time.  Doubtless both fought in the same engagement.

Orion’s father Fred died on January 30, 1943 and is buried in Dunboyne cemetery beside his wife Alberta. 

Gunner Roland Gatward

84129  Roland Gatward

Roland Gatward was born on August 4, 1890 in Brenchley, Kent, England, the son of Henry Gatward and his wife Julia Maria Farris.  They are found on the 1901 England census with an address in Potteridge Place, Brenchley, Kent.  Henry was employed as a domestic coachman.  Other children in the family included Albert N. (1899); Percy (1892), Margaret (1895), and John (1900).  

It is not known when Roland emigrated to Canada, but he cannot be found on the 1911 census in Ontario.

He enlisted for service on November 17, 1914 in London.  His medical examination was conducted the same day by Dr. C. W. Sinclair in Aylmer.  He lists his next of kin as his father, Henry Gatward, of The Grove, Matfield, Kent, England.  He gives his occupation as tailor, and he was not married.  His previous military experience included service with the 30th Battalion C.F.A. 

He died on April 28, 1919 at the age of 29, after serving with the 6th Bridgade of Canadian Field Artillery.  He is buried in Brenchley All Saints Churchyard in Kent, England. It is presumed that he died from wounds sustained or sickness contracted during the war.

It would appear that Roland lived in Aylmer for a few years prior to enlistment, and was employed as a tailor with the firm Youell & Wrong.

Roland wrote many letters to his friends back in Aylmer, several of which were published in the Aylmer Express.  They are included here, in chronological order, with the date of publication:

January 14, 1915:

ANOTHER LETTER FROM CAMP

Roland Gatward Writes Interesting Letter to his Former Employers Messrs. Youell & Wrong

London, January 1, 1915

Messrs. Youell & Wrong & Everyone:
To wish you a happy and prosperous New Year.  I am a little late, but better late than never.  Strange things may happen before another but we all hope for the best.  I had leave for Christmas and believe me I had a good Christmas too, with my brothers, quite like old times.  I had from Thursday night till Monday night.  It was so late when we went to bed Christmas eve that I forgot to hang up my stocking.  Talk about Christmas dinners, I have had no end of them and I am still “not out”.  We have had a holiday today, so was down town this afternoon. There were sports at the Y.M.C.A. this afternoon and tonight.  I still like soldier life and it is liking me too.  We take long route marches every day, say!, the first few sure tired me out.  I was all in at first, but they have done me the world of good.  You won’t know me when I return.  I get along very well with most of the boys. I am getting to know them better. We have been told that we are likely to move soon, but nobody seems to know where.  All kind of yarns go around the camp.  I was glad when the quarantine was lifted. I wrote you a long letter then, but I don’t know whether you received it. They wouldn’t pay us during quarantine.  I was broke three days before Christmas. We were paid the day before Christmas.  I drew $10 and yesterday was paid again.  I drew $24.10, so if a fellow is careful he can save a little. We have a savings bank connected with our battery and we can leave so much in every pay. We have the best bunch of officers that a battery could wish for. If they were all like our fellows would follow them anywhere, everything goes so smooth.  Everybody likes them and would do anything for them.  There are four sub sections in our battery.  I am in A, and say, I am in luck again for we have the best sergeant anyone could wish for, a young fellow and he’s a dandy – a Canadian – that’s one for some of you. Did I tell you we were vaccinated?  My luck was in again for mine didn’t take – felt nothing of it. We have lots of football, boxing and wrestling.  My eyesight is much improved since coming here, the rest is doing them good if I am to get through for I am to be a gunner and they have to have strong sight.  We had a dinner at McCormick’s factory Christmas eve.  The Aylmer people had sent us one the night before, and yesterday we cleaned up on one sent by some of the Guelph ladies.  It was a big feed too.  Remember me to everybody in the store.  May get another chance to come down soon.  Guess I will close for now and get to bed.  I think I have to work in the kitchen tomorrow washing dishes.  I don’t like that job, would rather put in button holes.
Yours sincerely, Roland Gatward

December 16, 1915:

WHEN YOU READ THAT CANADIANS HAVE DONE GOOD WORK

YOU CAN BELIEVE IT

Roland Gatward, Formerly a Tailor at Youell & Wrong’s, now Serving The Empireat the Front, Writes The Following Interesting Letter

Nov. 20, 1915

Messrs. Youell & Wrong, Aylmer, Ont.

Dear Sirs:
Your letter received a couple of weeks ago, for which I thank you.  I am always glad to get a letter. Hope you are keeping well in health. Glad to say I am dandy.  I have had a pretty rough time, but I am still alive and well. I have left the guns and am at headquarters, carrying despatches.  It’s a good job when the weather is fine, but the weather in this country is nothing very good, so different from Canada.  I have a good place to sleep here. We are in billets. I often have to take a trip down to our Battery. We have been doing fine work out here. When you read in the paper that the Canadians have done good work, you can believe it.  Everybody here takes their hats off to the Canadians and they are very popular. We get paid twice a month, 15 francs each pay and its easier than you would think to spend it, for things are pretty dear and you often see something good in a store which makes you feel hungry.  We are quite a way back from the lines, but even at that we get shelled at times and they are big shells, too, and not from a pea shooter.  I see queer sights here.  I have seen fellows killed and buried inside of 30 minutes.  I could tell whole lots, but the letter has to be censored, so I shall have to leave some until I get back.  We live well here.  I was up at 4 a.m. this morning and made some coffee and toast. It sure was good. I have had a little experience with snipers too. About three weeks ago I was down at the trenches, working day and night, digging trenches and filling sand bags.  There is not much doing in the day time, but at night you have to keep your head low.  It is a queer sensation at first to hear sniper’s bullets whistling through the grass over head.  Most of the houses are occupied up to within about 2 miles of the trenches and people go about their work as usual.  I guess you have seen pictures of refugees running with their children in their arms.  Well I saw the real thing the other day. Some who have stores, empty the till and put all their money in a sack and sling it over their shoulder. The store keepers here do good business with the soldiers.  Will write again some time. They are waiting for me to help with the breakfast, so will close.
Yours sincerely, Roland Gatward

January 6, 1916:

APPRECIATED BOX OF COMFORTS

Former Aylmer Boy Realizes There is Still Hard Work Ahead

Somewhere in France, 10 / 12 / 15

Youell & Wrong and staff,
Dear Friends All:

The parcel arrived quite safely with contents in good condition. I thank you all very much. I wasn’t looking for anything, so it was a surprise. Already the box is empty.  I hope that by next Christmas the war will be over, though the end is not in sight yet.  I was tickled to think you hadn’t forgotten me, for I have been away a long time now.  I can’t tell you much about the war but you see all that happens in the papers.  It certainly looks like a big job for us yet.  I am liking it pretty well and except for the weather it would be all right.  I am headquarters now as despatch rider.  I have a horse of my own and get plenty of riding and sometimes get some wet journeys. The weather here is very wet, but as for the fighting it’s not too bad.  I have no complaints to make about it at all. I always wanted to be a soldier, and that ambition is now realized very fully.  I keep well.  I have had wet feet many times but no colds yet. When I return I shall have lots of stories.  I could tell you lots now of things that happen every day.  It’s a big adventure.  I have a good place to sleep since I have been on this job; no rats to disturb me.  I lost the pockets in my clothes through them.  Thank Ern for the chewing tobacco. A never could get along very well with chewing it, but my taste may have changed, as for the candy my taste hasn’t altered at all.  The cigarettes were acceptable, too, as I smoke a little now; must do something at times for company.  I have now pockets full of tobacco issues us, or given, and I bet you’d laugh to see me with a clay pipe in my mouth.  I have altered in lots of ways since I have been here, but I am happy as a man could be, and very comfortable.  I have all kinds of nerve, doing things I shouldn’t have thought possible a year ago.  I have several souvenirs to take back to you.  I expect a Christmas pudding from home next week.  I think they worry about me there.  I believe they feel it more than I do, for I don’t think there is anything that worries me here.  I am becoming a fatalist.  I am glad to hear that there is lots of work in the tailor shop. I’d like to be there now.  I am getting very sleepy, so will close, make a cup of tea and get into bed.  Wishing you all a Happy New Year and thanks for the parcel.
Yours sincerely, Roland Gatward

Mr. Gatward went overseas as a member of the 4th Brigade under Lieut-Col. Brown, as a gunner.

January 20, 1916:

ROLAND GATWARD WRITES ANOTHER INTERESTING LETTER

Had a Very Peaceful Christmas – Often Sees “Benny” Alfred Benson, Also From Aylmer

December 28th, 1915

Christmas at the Front
We had a good Christmas here. There wasn’t a gun to be heard all day. We had eggs and bacon for breakfast, chicken, pudding, nuts and oranges for dinner. None of us wanted any supper so we called that meal off. I had a box of apples, a small pudding and a few Christmas dainties from mother. Christmas night we had a big log fire and sat round and sang all the old songs of home.  We had to get some faggots from the man of the house when he wasn’t looking.  He kept it on top of a big wall. Someone light was needed to get up and throw it down.  Someone said “come on fatty”, so they pushed me up and I handed down the goods.  I am getting used to this kind of life and if things don’t get any worse I can stick it out quite easily.  I have been here over three months now and I expect to be here many more.  It won’t be half so bad in the summer for it’s the weather we are fighting most against now. The people in Canada don’t know what bad weather is.  It’s not cold here and we don’t need mitts, not even for riding.  I get a lot of riding and have a nice little horse.  I was out late last night; it was a dark night too.  Going along you will sometimes hear “halt”, and wonder where it comes from.  Unless you know the different sentries, believe me, the best thing to do is to stop dead or you will get a bayonet pointed uncomfortably close to you. I guess in Canada people think that this war is almost over but they have another guess coming; there’s lots of fighting to do yet. I am still at Brigade H. Q., and don’t often see our boys but the fellows here are the best I have been with yet.  I see “Benny” nearly every day as he comes up for the mail.  I was out Christmas morning getting holly to decorate our mess room. We also had a Chinese lantern.  I am very well in health. How is everyone in the store?  Remember me to all.  I remain,
Yours sincerely, Roland Gatward

February 24, 1916:

OPINION IS WAR WILL NOT END BEFORE FALL OF 1917

Roland Gatward Writes Another Interesting Letter From the Firing Line to an Aylmer Friend

Dear Sir:
Your letter and the paper received safely about 10 days ago, and today have received a second paper.  I always like to hear about Aylmer, so will lose no time in answering.  Glad to say, I am first rate in health. I never felt better. We are getting lots of fun.  The Canadian soldiers are about the happiest bunch of fellows you’d meet.  The sing-songs we get every night make you forget your troubles.  It seems that spring has opened here already, the birds are beginning to sing, the sun shines and green is appearing on the trees.  It seems early for spring, but its beautiful weather we are getting now.  I have just had a new top coat and it’s a dandy.  It seems too good for this job. I haven’t worn it yet, in fact I haven’t worn an overcoat all the winter, not even for riding, and it’s only 2 days that I have had to wear mitts.  It has been a very mild winter out here.  I have been very busy this week so far and tomorrow I have 3 long trips to make, so I shall have to keep moving.  I see by the papers you sent that recruiting is going on very well in Canada.  They will all be needed this spring.  I am looking forward to getting a few days leave soon.  Most of the officers in our Brigade have had theirs and also some of the sergeants.  My turn will come sometime.  I don’t mind if I’m the last on the list so long as I get it.  There’s not many here expect to see the war finished quickly.  The general opinion is for the finish to be about the fall of 1917.  I have become acquainted with quite a few natives.  The old lady at our office is as nice as one could meet.  I often chop some wood for her and she will give me a penny and tell me to get a drink.  I had supper the other night with her.  They have some peculiar dishes here.  There’s a man living near where I stable my horse, and every morning he shakes my hand as if I was a son just come home and he talks to me in his own language, which I am beginning to understand.  

Hoping to hear again soon,
Yours sincerely, Roland Gatward

May 11, 1916:

Roland Gatward Tells More of His Experiences in a Letter to His Former Employers,

Messrs. Youell & Wrong

France, April 16, 1916
Messrs. Youell & Wrong, Aylmer, Ont.

Dear Sirs:
I received an Aylmer Express from you some time ago. We can always read more war news in a Canadian paper than in the papers here.  I have been unable to do any writing for some time, as we have been so busy, and have been shifting about, too. We have had quite a hot time.  I am dandy in health.  We are at a big farm now; I have a big loft all to myself to sleep in.  I made a bed yesterday, and after sleeping on the floor I found it very comfortable.  I have to keep very still while sleeping on it, for I have bricks at each corner for legs, and the least knock, over it goes.  I suppose now that you have a son coming out here you will take more interest than ever in what is going on here. We were in quite a big affair three weeks ago, but you would never see us mentioned in the papers, as we are only a small unit among so many. The brighter days are here now, and it is fine to be a soldier.  I still have the same old job, but I don’t get such long trips now, as we are all closer together.  I went to a place the other day, and they were shelling it with shrapnel and gas shells.  Several fellows were wounded.  I was on a wheel, and I went for all I was worth.  A big barn was hit, and burned down. There were horses, cattle and pigs in it, and the building fell in on them.  I was attached to a British Brigade last week for a few days. Our headquarters have moved and we are up among the shells.  There is a road leading up to us that is shelled every day regularly, and we know about what time to expect them. This place has been hit by shells in lots of places, and the fields on either side are full of shell holes.  It has always had a bad name – we knew that before we came in.  I saw Charlie Dingle last week.  I hadn’t seen him for months.  Next Sunday is Easter – last Easter I was at Aylmer.  It is nearly a year since I left Canada, and believe me, Canada is a far better country than this is.  I have several more letters to write, so I will have to close.  I shall be very glad to hear from you again. There is more excitement here when the mail comes than when it is pay-day.  Hope you are all well. Remember me to all.  I remain,
Yours sincerely, Roland Gatward

and also printed in the May 11, 1916 issue:

Belgium, 2nd March 1916

Dear Mrs. Almas:
I have received the parcel of comforts tonight.  Please convey my thanks to the Aylmer Women’s Institute. I am delighted with it, for everything is so useful.  The people at home are very good to the boys out here, and it is good to be a Canadian soldier. We have had a very wet winter, but are looking forward to a good warm summer, so that we can get down to real business with those Huns –  Believe me, Yours very truly, Roland Gatward, 84129

November 9, 1916:

A LETTER FROM FRANCE

Roland Gatward Writes to the Staff at Youell & Wrong’s Store, of Which he was a

Former Member.  Mr. Gatward Went Overseas with the 16th Battery Early in the War

October 15th, 1916

Received your letter a few days ago and was very glad to hear from you.  I hope to be back by next summer and believe me I intend to have a good holiday.  Well, I can’t tell you much of what is going on out here now, only that there is a lot of fighting taking place right here.  I am fortunate enough as usual to have a cushy job. Am acting as officer’s orderly for the time being.  One of the fellows got wounded and I am taking his place.  I have always been very lucky out here and seemed to drop into something good every time.  I am still with the brigade headquarters.  Our old Battery has sure changed since I left.  None of the officers are the same and we have lost quite a lot of men of late, mostly wounded. I am first-rate in health myself. Went to a place about 29 miles from here last Sunday with my officer, and for one night I slept in a real bed, between real sheets, the first time for about 14 months.  Say, it felt good, too, I can assure you.  I will be glad when the war is over. I have seen all I want to see and I’d like something quieter for a change.  Am getting fat of late.  I can tell by the pressure on my belt that something will soon have to go. My officer has two horses which I have to look after.  I am happy enough while I am with horses.  Am doing a lot of riding these days.  I hope that all in the store are well.
With kind regards, Yours sincerely, Roland Gatward

Pte. Clark Leslie Haight

190177  Clark Haight

Clark Leslie Haight was born March 8, 1899 in Malahide township, the son of Frank Harrison Haight and Ida Augusta Dennis.  Frank was a farmer living in the Mount Salem area.  He and Ida were married on November 16, 1892 in Luton.

Other children in the family were: William Henry (1893); George H. (1895); Dennis (1897); Clark Leslie (1899); Clarence (1905); and Charles Arthur (1906).

The family appears on the 1901 Malahide census (Div. 2, page 7).  The family may have moved to Tillsonburg where Frank died as the result of an accident on October 6, 1908 at the age of 38.  At the time, he was employed as a pumper on the Michigan Central Railway. Following his death,  Ida moved to Aylmer where she and the family appear on the 1911 census (Div. 25, page 8). She lived on Wellington Street.

Clark learned the trade of a shoemaker while living in Aylmer, and had served 18 months in the 30th Battery of militia.  He enlisted for service on March 28, 1916 in St. Thomas, the day before his brother William.  

He served at first with the 91st Battalion, but at the time of his death on May 4, 1917 at the age of 18, he was with the 2nd Battalion of Canadian Infantry.  His name appears on the Vimy Memorial.

Clark’s photograph appeared in the Aylmer Express, December 4, 1916, along with brothers William and Harry, at the time of William’s death.  It states that Pte. Clark L. Haight was admitted to No. 3 Canadian Field Ambulance Hospital on November 18th, suffering from scalp wounds.

Announcement of Clark’s presumed death appeared in the Aylmer Express, December 27, 1917:

Pte. C. L. Haight, son of Mrs. Ida Haight, of this place, who was reported missing on May 3rd, 1917, is now presumed dead, according to an official message received from Ottawa by his mother. Pte. Haight went overseas with the 91st Batt., in June of 1916, but was later transferred to another unit in France.  The official statement is as follows: “That owing to the length of time that has elapsed since he was reported missing, and to the fact that his name has not appeared in the official list of prisoners of war, nor that, after full inquiry made has any information been received that he is still alive, it is regretted that the only conclusion which can be arrived at is that he is dead. For official purposes, therefore, an official certificate of his death is enclosed”.  Much sympathy is extended to Mrs. Haight in the loss of a second son in the great conflict. A third son is wounded and is expected home at any time, and a fourth son is also in the service.

William & Clark’s mother, Ida (born 1873) passed away in 1951 at the age of 78 and is buried beside her husband in Luton cemetery.

Pte. William Henry Haight

190146  William Haight

William Henry Haight was born September 28, 1893 in Malahide township, the son of Frank Harrison Haight and Ida Augusta Dennis. 

He was a brother of Clark Leslie Haight who was killed in action on November 18, 1916. [see previous entry for further biographical information on the Haight family]

William took up a career as a printer, and enlisted for service on March 29, 1916 in St. Thomas.  He had previous militia experience with the 30th Battery in Aylmer.   

Originally with the 91st Battalion, William died on November 18, 1916 at the age of 23, while serving with the 75th Battalion of Canadian Infantry.  His name appears on the Vimy Memorial.

Announcement of his death appeared in the Aylmer Express, December 7, 1916:

PTE. WILLIAM HAIGHT IS KILLED IN ACTION

First Aylmer Man of the 91st Batt. to Give his Live for His Country

Mrs. Frank Haight, Wellington St., received a telegram from Ottawa yesterday morning, conveying the sad news that her eldest son, Pte. William Haight, had paid the supreme sacrifice, having been killed in action, in France.

Pte. Haight went overseas with the 91st Battalion, together with his two brothers, Harry and Clark, who are also on the firing line.  Another brother, Dennis, has since enlisted with the Windsor kiltie battalion.

When deceased first offered his services he was rejected, but was determined to do his bit and underwent an operation, which made him a successful applicant on presenting himself a second time.  Pte. Haight is the first Aylmer man of the 91st Battalion to be killed in action, and the sad news has cast a gloom over the entire town.  Truly the war is close at hand.  He was a fine young man, and a consistent member of the Baptist Young Men’s Class. He was at one time an employee of the Express, where he learned the printing trade, but was last employed by Mr. Ed Miller, hardware merchant.

His father met with a sudden death some years ago.  He was employed on the M.C.R. at Tillsonburg, when a train struck the hand car on which he was riding.  The widowed mother will have the sympathy of all in her bereavement.

The December 14, 1916 issue of the Aylmer Express contains photos of William and his two brothers, Clark and Harry.

A letter from Pte. H. V. Mitchell printed in the Aylmer Express, February 1, 1917, contains a paragraph regarding William Haight:

“Your letter enlightened me on a lot of things I never knew before.  Poor Billy Haight!  May God take his soul to rest with Him above and I hope his good mother will be able to bear the burden heroically, with the assurance that her boy gave his life for her, and also for a whole lot of slackers who could just as well have gone as he. Billy Haight was learning his trade at the print shop when I was there learning mine.  I always found him an honest chap, who would do anything in his power to help a fellow worker.  Always of a smiling disposition, he made life worth a whole lot, when he was around.  He had sand, and lots of it.  Any man who will go through an operation to come out here and fight, leaving everything behind deserves something.  If his bereaved ones can only rest assured that God will banish all pain and suffering, and will bestow His great reward accordingly on all that do His bidding.  His all-seeing eye watches over all. Will you kindly convey to Mrs. Haight my deepest sympathy.”

Lieutenant Douglas Kipp Hamilton

Douglas Kipp Hamilton was born April 15, 1893 in Port Stanley, the son of Rev. Richard D. Hamilton & Mary Elva Kipp.  Richard was the minister of the Methodist church at Port Stanley at the time.  Richard was born in 1859 in Flamborough, Wentworth County and was living in Corinth when he married Mary Elva Kipp on January 21, 1885 in Springfield.  She was born in Malahide in 1864, the daughter of Hiram Douglas Kipp & Marian A. Medcalf.

Besides ministering in Port Stanley, Rev. Hamilton was minister at Richmond in 1881 and Corinth in 1884.  By 1901, the family was living in London where they appear on the census there; and on the 1911 census they are in Listowel, Perth County.  They were living in St. Catharines in 1916, and  Burlington in 1918.  Following the death of his wife in Burlington on May 17, 1923, Rev. Hamilton returned to Malahide and lived at lot 11, concession 9 where he died on February 17, 1929.  He and Elva are buried in Aylmer cemetery.  Their son Douglas’ name appears on the monument.

Other members of the family were: Ida E. (1890 – 1934);  Honora (born 1891 in St. Thomas; died in 1892 age 11 months); and Richard Eccles Pepper Hamilton (1904).

Douglas was a student living in Brantford when he enlisted on March 20, 1916 in Brantford.  He had previous militia experience, having served with the 19th Lincoln Regiment, and 16 months with the C.O.T.C. in Toronto.

He was killed in action on August 8, 1918 and is buried in Beaucourt British Cemetery.

The following appeared in the University of Toronto Roll of Service 1914 – 1918, published in 1921:

DOUGLAS KIPP HAMILTON – April 15, 1893 – Aug. 8, 1918, Lieutenant, Fifty-fourth Battalion.  Son of the Rev. Richard D. Hamilton, born Port Stanley; education London Public School; Petrolia Public School and High School; Listowel High School; Brantford Collegiate Institute; Victoria College 1912-1916, B.A.; Year executive; C.O.T.C.  In October 1915 he was appointed to the 125th Battalion, and went overseas in August 1916.  He joined the 54th Battalion in France in April 1918 on the Lens front.  The first day of the battle of Amiens he was killed in action by a machine gun bullet, when advancing at the head of his platoon.  His College friend Laurence H. Rehder, who had been with him in every unit since they joined the forces together, was killed in the same battle. Buried near Beaucourt-en-Santerre.

Pte. James Arthur Hare

190347  James Hare

James Arthur Hare was born on June 15, 1895 in Aylmer, the son of William Robinson Hare and Isabella Brown, who were married on July 5, 1878 in Aylmer.  William was born in Nepean Township, Carlton County, Ontario but was living in South Dorchester at the time of his marriage.  Isabella was living in North Dorchester Township, Middlesex County.

Following their marriage, William farmed in South Dorchester where they appear on the 1881 census (Div. 2, page 13). By the 1891 census (Div. 1, page 59), the family had moved to Aylmer where William was a policeman.  On the 1901 Aylmer census (Div. 3, page 6), William’s occupation is given as “society organizer”.  In 1911 (Div. 26, page 1), they are living in Beech Street in Aylmer, where William is a traveler, commission (sales).  At the time of James’ birth in 1895, William was employed as a night watchman.

Other children in the family were: John Albert (1879); William Archibald (1881); Edward Ernest (1883); Isabella Ethel (1886); and Anna Caroline (1889).

William Robinson Hare was a veteran of the South African (Boer) War, as was his son William Archibald Hare.  They both enlisted at Ottawa on January 4, 1900 and served with the Royal Field Artillery.  William Archibald was a driver in “D” Battery, and was discharged on January 10, 1901.  William R. Hare was wounded on November 6, 1900 at Lulufontein and invalided to England in February 1901.  He had been promoted to Corporal on Nov. 19, 1900, and was discharged on March 21, 1901.   

William R. Hare apparently moved to Edson, Alberta where he was living when he died on November 2, 1929 in his 79th year. (See obituary following)

James became a public school teacher and was teaching at S.S. # 12 North Dorchester.  His name is found on the Roll of Honour of the Ontario Teachers Who Served in the Great War, 1914 – 1918 (the Ryerson Press, Toronto, 1922).  His address is given as R. R. #1 Belmont.

James enlisted for service on June 5, 1916 in St. Thomas.  He gave his address as Mossley, Ontario.  He named his next of kin as his brother, John A. Hare of Barrie.  James had three years’ previous militia experience with the 1st Hussars in London.  He was not married.

At the time of his death on July 26, 1917, he was serving with the 2nd Battalion of Canadian Infantry.  He is buried in Maroc British cemetery, in the village of Gernay in France.

A letter from “Jim” to his cousin in Aylmer was printed in the Aylmer Express, March 29, 1917:

MOST OF THE SOCKS TOO SMALL

A Warm Pair of Feet in a Whole Pair of Socks make a better Soldier than a cold Pair of Feet in a Holey Pair of Socks

An Interesting Letter from James Hare, son of Wm. Hare, Sr., a former Aylmer Boy, written to his cousin, Mrs. Wm. Kenney

B.E.F. France, Febraury 25, 1917

Dear Mrs. Kenney:

Your very interesting letter of Jan. 3, to hand.  I am doing well. Although I belong to the Second Battalion, I am attached to the 1st Entrenching Battalion, B.E.F., France, and letters so addressed get here a fortnight earlier.

Those socks were fine. I gave two pairs to Elgin boys and one of them was especially pleased with the fine fit.  Most socks are too small and the heel comes at the instep.  One pair I had came one inch above my shoes when pulled up tight, but before I marched far, they crept down around my ankles out of sight. Then my puttees, which refuse to stick to eight inches or so of slippery skin would start unwinding and very shortly I’d have to fall out and rewind my muddy puttees. This used to amuse my pals greatly because as they could see no socks in the customary place, they surmised I was going around without any socks in my boots.  I think most of the lads have a pair or two of good socks, and as soon as they get dirty or holey, they hand them in at the bath house, as they do their underwear, top shirts and towels, and get clean ones for them that are generally in good repair and pretty clean.

I don’t expect to land in Germany as a prisoner.  Anyone who goes in to murder every possible Hun by the skilful use of bullets, bayonet and bombs will receive short shift when overpowered.

That guy speaking of getting 1 pound or 5 pounds was back in Blity. They are better paid back there, than here, because I got 10 pounds, 10 shillings in less than two months and a half.  But over here, I never heard of anyone not getting his 30 francs regularly every month, unless they are being punished for something.  Last Thursday I worked in the Paymaster’s office and handled around a thousand Pay books, everyone of which got their proper pay.  

No nicotine or spirits for me, thanks.  I have no intention of joining the aerial corps.  I doubt very much if father is out here.  Met Clarke Paupst of the R.A.M.C. this morning, he just came back from one of the advanced dressing stations, and is now billeted in this town.

Red Near, one of the family that lived for a short time in your house on the 9th sleeps across the aisle from me and holds his own well.
Yours truly, Jim

In another letter Jim said:

“I can tell you that a fellow who has a warm pair of feet inside a whole pair of socks is a better soldier by far than one with cold feet inside a holey pair.  We have been working about six hours a day or night, walking three or four miles to and from work, with about thirty pounds of equipment, through the frosty air on a slippery road. The work, walk, cold, and irregular hours of work, and the nervous tension that one works at when there is iron in the air all combine to make us pretty tired by the time we land in our blankets for a rest.  However, the worst is yet to come.”

 The engineering Battalion to which Jim is attached digs trenches, revile them, dig deep dugouts and keep everything in the support lines and communication trenches in good repair.  A man wearing a nine, ten or eleven boot cannot be comfortable in a small sock suitable for a number six or seven boot. They need what comfort they can get.  Mrs. Kenney says the socks she sent were eleven inch leg and eleven inch foot.  If any of our readers know the address or whereabouts of Wm. Hare, Mrs. Kenney would be very glad to get it as Jim was once nearly arrested for a spy in trying to locate his father, who is supposed to be overseas.

Mention of James being wounded was reported in the Aylmer Express, May 31, 1917:

Relatives of Corporal James Hare received word this week that he has been wounded in action in the recent fighting in France. He is a son of Will Hare Sr., a veteran of the Boer war and a former Aylmer resident.  Jimmy went to France some months ago with an entrenching battalion, but later transferred to an infantry battalion.  His wound is under the right ear and he is in No. 30 Gen. Hospital, Calais, France. His many Aylmer friends will hope for a speedy recovery.

Announcement of his death, and a copy of the last letter written to his brother, appeared in the Aylmer Express, August 16, 1917:

JAS. ARTHUR HARE KILLED

Former Aylmer Man Paid the Supreme Sacrifice on July 26th,

After Many Months of Fighting

Word was received here on Saturday announcing Jimmy’s death, by Mrs. Robt. Kenney.  We have also received a copy of Jim’s last letter to his brother, Will, of Ottawa, a Boer war veteran, received a week ago, which will be of interest to the many relatives and friends of deceased here.  He hoped to see Universal Service in Canada.

Dear Will – Received your letter of the 6th inst.  Fritz is handing us some fireworks, imagine a 1000 guns all waking up suddenly in the dark and spraying shrapnel, and blowing in trenches and gun pits, and sweeping roads and you will get a slight idea of the stuff the Huns are taking.  I see Ern is trying to enlist again.  If he comes he will find that extra 6 inches in height is a bid rig when walking along a trench or in digging in. Advise him is he has made up his mind to get here, to join a heavy howitzer crew. He might find juggling 1000 shells to his liking and ability.

I have joined my battalion again, and am back out of effective range of artillery fire, most of the time, but am doing working parties farther up.  During April’s more or less strenuous fighting it was nothing to have a big shell light in front of you, then one where you were standing and perhaps half dozen when you got past.  In fact some of the fellows were fairly hit with unexploded shells.  It tries a fellow’s nerves to hold down a job over here.

I also noticed the remark about myself being wounded.  That Lance-Corporal rank seems to stick to me pretty good.  I got that for conspicuous laziness, while in the entrenching battalion and since I would not wear an acting rank stripe, and merely continued loafing around like the licensed loafers, with stripes on, I guess they were glad I did not press for the stripes.

Fritz may hold out this coming winter but if you keep us supplied with the sinews of war we will show old Fritz the truth of their statesman’s (Bismark’s) “We must be prepared to fight hard even to hold the land we have.”

Those Canadian papers make us laugh.  Now the continental Edition of the Daily Mail, which is most largely read over here, contains one double sheet a day and has far more pictures in it than Canadian papers.  Whereas in Canadian papers where they’d use the top half of the paper for red headlines, in the Mail they summarize the facts in one column.

I see there is a struggle in Parliament to organize what should have been organized three years ago, a Win-the-War-Council with unlimited powers composed of not more than ten men. By making a gigantic effort in this war, Canada will help to end it more quickly and command respect throughout the Empire, and gain the favor of the Allied nations.  I hope to see Universal Service in Canada, then every available man can be put where he is needed, not where he would sooner be. Then again thousands of dollars have been blown in giving cushy jobs, trying to make fellows believe this is Paradise over here, and that they are foolish not to come. These fellows could be sent along to do something, and lastly, us guys over here, do not want to be stingy and hog all the Honor of Winning the War, but through modesty would just as leave stand back and let the other guys have a turn running the gauntlet through all the latest improvements in modern warfare, and if they come out they will be better men.

The troops are filling in National Service cards and answering such questions as: Did you ever work on a farm?  Would you help in a scheme of land settlement?  How much money will you have after the war?  

Well I am not writing to anyone else this week and as I had so much to say before I was satisfied, I shot the whole wad in one letter, so the censor will understand and not kick too much.
Yours sincerely, JIM

William Hare’s obituary appeared in the Aylmer Express, November 7, 1929:

William R. Hare, of Edson, Alberta, and formerly of Aylmer, died at the Misericordia Hospital, at Edmonton, Alberta, on November 2nd in his 79th year. The funeral was held at Edson, where for many years he has occupied a government position in the Department of Immigration.  Mr. Hare was a resident of Aylmer for many years and his children grew up here. He was a veteran of the Boer War, a man who made many friends and will be well remembered by a great many of our readers.

Further details of William’s death were published in the Aylmer Express, November 21, 1929:

HARE BURIED AT EDSON, ALTA.

Death Caused By Shock of Operation

The following particulars of the death of William Hare, a former well-known resident of Aylmer, is from the Edson-Jasper Signal, of November 7th last, published at Edson, Alberta.

“The sad news of the death of the late Mr. William Hare, who passed away in Edmonton, on Sunday last, was received here with sorrow on the part of his large circle of friends. The late Mr. Hare had been ill for some time and had gone into Edmonton for surgical treatment from which he was apparently recovering, the shock of the operation, however, being too great, and he passed peacefully away on Sunday last.  The deceased was born at Ottawa in 1852. In 1866 [sic] he enlisted in the Ottawa Artillery Field Battery and saw service in the Fenian Raids, and also saw service in the South African War.  The deceased came to the Edson district about twenty years ago, and for the past few years has been manager of the Immigration Hall and Land Agent here, and was a respected member of the Masonic and Eastern Star Lodges here, as well as being a charter member of the Royal Arch Masons of Edson. There are left to mourn his departure, three sons, John of Barrie, and William and Ernest, of Ottawa; one daughter, Carrie, of Saskatchewan; his widow and son, Robert, of Edson, as well as a number of other relatives and a large circle of friends. The funeral was held in the United Church on Tuesday, and was officially attended by the Edson Lodge A.F. & A.M., Douglas Haig Chapter Eastern Star and Edson Branch B.E.S.L.  The interment took place at Edson cemetery with military honors, the Masonic service being read at the graveside.”

Pte. Francis Harold Winnington-Ingram

81429  Francis Winnington-Ingram

Francis Harold Winnington-Ingram was born May 7, 1891 in Aylmer, according to his attestation paper.  However, his birth registration gives his date of birth as May 7, 1885 in Malahide.  He was the son of Francis Herbert Winnington-Ingram and Emily Jane Hankinson, who were married in Malahide on October 20, 1880. Francis was a farmer at Grovesend (lot 22, concession1 Malahide), and was born on June 8, 1854 in England, the son of Rev. Edward W. Ingram & Maria Louisa Pepys.  Francis emigrated to Canada about 1876.  His wife Emily Jane was born February 24, 1861 at Grovesend, the daughter of William Hankinson & Sophia McConnell.

The family is found in Malahide census records: 1901 (Div. 1, page 1), and 1911 (Div. 12, page 7).  Other children in the family were: Charles Willard Edwin (1881); Herbert Arthur (1882); Constance Eveline (1884); Dora Blanche (1886); Ethel Grace (1888); John Gordon Gerald (1889); Alfred Ernest (1891), and Frances Hazel (1893).

Francis Harold does not appear with his parents on the 1911 census, since he had probably already moved to the Canadian West.   He enlisted for service on December 24, 1914 in Winnipeg, Manitoba,  where he was employed as a clerk.  He was not married. He died on May 20, 1915 at the age of 24, and was serving with the 10th Battalion of Canadian Infantry (Alberta Regiment).  His name appears on the Vimy Memorial in France.

Notice of his presumed death appeared in the Aylmer Express, September 2, 1915:

All hope for Private Harold Ingram, who has been missing ever since the engagement in which his regiment distinguished itself at Ypres, has been given up. A letter from Bishop Ingram, of London, to his brother, Pte. Ingram’s father, of Malahide, bears the information that he (the Bishop) had dined with the colonel of the regiment and that officer had said all efforts to locate Pte. Ingram had failed.

An account of the memorial service held for Pte. Ingram appeared in the Aylmer Express, May 26, 1916:

MEMORIAL SERVICE FOR PTE. FRANCIS H. INGRAM

Trinity Church was very appropriately decorated and crowded to its capacity on Sunday morning with relatives and friends of the late Francis Harold Ingram, who fell on the field of battle in France on 21st May 1915, to take part in a memorial service and to tender the deceased soldier the high esteem in which he was held by the congregation. The Rector delivered a very strong and impressive sermon, and in a few, well-chosen words pointed out the great loss to the Empire of young manhood of the type of the late Pte. Ingram, and many others who have so nobly given their lives for King and Country.  Deceased was a son of F. W. Ingram, of Malahide, and enlisted with the Princess Pats from Winnipeg in which city he held a responsible position with the firm of Mackenzie & Mann, sailing for the Motherland in February 1915.

A letter from one of Pte. Ingram’s comrades written to his father regarding his death was printed in the Aylmer Express, October 7, 1915:

“I HAVE GOT MINE BOYS, GOOD-BYE”

Were the Dying Words of Harold Ingram, as he Fell During a Fierce Bayonet Charge

Mr. F. W. Ingram, Grovesend, received the following account of the sad death of his son, Harold, from a comrade, H. W. Armitage, of Winnipeg:

Shorncliffe, Sept. 10, 1915

Dear Mr. Ingram:
In answer to your letter of August seventeenth, I am sorry to have to tell you that poor Harold was killed in action at Festubert on the evening of May 21st.  We were making a bayonet charge, and he was shot then.  He just said, “I have got mine boys, Good-bye”, and then he died. I was wounded just then, too.  I was talking to one of the boys who helped bury him, and he was buried where he fell.

Before we made the charge I was next to him in the trenches, and he was the coolest in the crowd.  He was my chum, and I felt badly at losing such a fine, brave comrade.

I expect to leave for Canada next week, and if I possibly can, would like to come and see you.  I could tell you lots of things which you would like to know, but it is so hard for me to write.  I have to use my left hand.

I will get particulars as to the exact spot where he was buried, also if they got his personal effects. The chap I was talking to, who was one of the funeral party, did not know. I am sorry I cannot give you fuller details, but the words won’t come.  I will write you again and will try and see you when I come home.

I beg to tender to both you and Mrs. Ingram my deepest sympathy in your loss.

Yours sincerely,
W. Armitage, 9th Battalion Reserve, Shorncliffe.

Pte. Ingram’s parents, Francis & Emily Jane, are buried in Aylmer cemetery.  Francis died on July 11, 1928 at the age of 74; and Emily died February 4, 1927 at the age of 65.

Emily’s obituary appeared in the Aylmer Express, February 10, 1927:

DEATH OF MRS. F. W. INGRAM

The death of Emily Jane, beloved wife of Mr. Frank Winnington Ingram occurred at the family residence, John street north, Aylmer, early Friday morning, February 4th.  Mrs. Ingram had been a patient sufferer for some weeks and had not enjoyed good health for some months.  Everything possible that medical skill could do was done to restore her health.   Mrs. Ingram was born at Grovesend on the first concession of Malahide, the daughter of William and Sophia Hankinson.  In 1880 she married Mr. Frank Winnington Ingram and for over thirty years resided on the farm adjoining that of her father’s, removing to Aylmer in 1918.  She was an enthusiastic worker in all branches of ladies work in Trinity church.  Her husband is the brother of the Bishop of London, who visited them last August.  Besides her husband, four sons survive: Charles, on the homestead; Herbert, of Edmonton; Gerald of Calgary; and Alfred, rector of St. James church, Hespeler.  One son, Harold, was killed in the war in 1915.  Four daughters also survive: Mrs. Constance Breay, at home; Mrs. Howard McClennan, Mrs. Harold Carradus and Mrs. Wilmer Ball, all of Toronto. Besides several grandchildren, she also leaves one sister, Mrs. Aaron Dalby, Aylmer and five brothers, James, Dow and Kenneth Hankinson, of Grand Rapids, Mich.; Rev. John Hankinson, of Sinclairville, N.Y., and William, on the old farm at Grovesend.  The funeral was held on Sunday afternoon at 3 o’clock in Trinity church, which was filled to capacity. The service was read by Canon Miles and the music under the direction of the organist, Mrs. Campbell, was composed entirely of favorite hymns of the deceased.  Miss Hilda Brown sang by special request, “Safe in the Arms of Jesus”.  Interment was made in the family plot in the Aylmer cemetery. All the family were present with the exception of two sons in Alberta. Two brothers also attended, Dow Hankinson of Grand Rapids, and Rev. John Hankinson, of St. Clairville, N.Y.; also Mrs. Joseph Stringham and Mrs. McDonald, of Detroit.  The flowers were very beautiful and in addition to those from the family and friends there were designs from the church, the Ladies’ Aid, Women’s Auxiliary and Sunday School. The pallbearers were Messrs. J. M. Wrong, K. McClennan, D. J. Teeple, H. Cohoon, J. H. Strachan and E. W. R. Hill.

Frank’s obituary appeared in the Aylmer Express  July 19, 1928:

DEATH OF FRANK H. WINNINGTON INGRAM

Well Known Citizen was Brother of the Bishop of London, Eng.

Frank H. Winnington Ingram died at the home of his son, Charles Ingram, First concession of Malahide, on Wednesday afternoon, July 11th.  Since the death of his wife some 18 months ago Mr. Ingram had been making his home in Aylmer with his daughter, Mrs. Constance Breay, and the first of the week went to visit his son on the first concession. Deceased was in his 75th year and was born in Stanford, England; for a short time he was with the British army in India, but could not stand the climate and when 25 years of age came to Canada and engaged in farming on the farm where he died.   For the past fifteen years he has made his home in Aylmer, and was one of the best known citizens of East Elgin. He was a faithful and active member of Trinity Anglican church, Aylmer, superintendent of the Sunday School for years, and a member of the Laymen’s Association.  He was also a member of the Aylmer Public Library Board and a man who took an active interest in the events of the day.  Four sons and four daughters survive: Charles W., of Malahide; Herbert, of Edmonton; Gerald, of Calgary; Rev. Alfred W. Ingram, of Hespeler; Mrs. Constance Breay, Aylmer; Mrs. H. McClennan, Mrs. H. Carradus, Mrs. W. Ball, all of Toronto. Also three brothers, all prominent in the Church of England in the Old Land: The Rt. Rev. Arthur Foley Winnington Ingram, Lord Bishop of London, Eng; Rev. A. E. Winnington Ingram, of Enfield, Stanfordshire, Eng.; Canon Edward Ingram, of Hereford, Herefordshire, Eng.; and one sister, Alice W. Ingram, of Bournemouth, England. The funeral was held on Friday afternoon with a short service at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Breay, which was private, and a public service in Trinity Anglican church at 2:30. A great number attended to pay their last tribute of respect and the flowers were beautiful and many. The service was conducted by Canon Miles and during the service Mr. A. Ray Lemon sang “Asleep in Jesus”.  He was accompanied by Mrs. Campbell and the church choir rendered several favorite hymns of the deceased. The honorary bearers were E. Chuter, John Strachan, A. E. Haines and James C. Crane. The pallbearers were D. J. Teeple, J. M. Wrong, H. Cohoon, W. G. Wrong, George Sears and K. McClennan.  Interment was made in the family plot in the Aylmer cemetery. Those who attended the funeral from a distance were: Mr and Mrs H. D. McClennan, Mrs. H. Carradus, and Mrs. W. Ball, of Toronto; Rev. Mr and Mrs A. E. Winnington Ingram, Hespeler; Mr. John Hankinson and daughter Constance, of Sinclairville, Michigan; Rev. Mr and Mrs M. Shore of London and Mr and Mrs Foley Winnington Ingram of Luton.

Pte. Frank Kilmer

123703  Frank Kilmer

Francis (Frank) Kilmer was born May 20, 1897 in Straffordville, Bayham Township the son of Abram Kilmer & Anna Jane Wall, who were married in Tillsonburg on September 18, 1892.  Abram was born in Malahide in 1873, the son of Abram & Mary Jane Kilmer.  Anna Jane Wall was born in Middleton Township, Norfolk County in 1871, the daughter of Cornelius & Melissa Wall.

Abram was a farmer and the family is found on the 1901 Bayham census, but by the 1911 census, they had moved to Southwold Township, where Abram was a carpenter.  They had also lived in the community of Fairview, in Malahide Township. Other children in the family were: Harry Gordon (1893); Emery Albert (1902), Kenneth (1906), and Edith Blanche (1910).

Frank enlisted for service on September 23, 1915 in St. Thomas.  He was a farmer and was not married.  He died on August 19, 1917 at the age of 20.  He was serving in the 3rd Battalion of Canadian Infantry (Central Ontario Regiment).  He is buried in Loos British Cemetery, France.

Information gathered by the Elgin Military Museum states that Pte. Kilmer had served in the 91st Battalion, the 70th Battalion, and the 3rd Battalion in France.  He was killed at Lens.

Notice of Frank’s death appeared in the Aylmer Express, September 6, 1917:

Word was received on Friday last that Pte. Frank Kilmer, son of Mr. Adrian [sic] Kilmer, Bayham, had been killed in action on August 19th. Pte. Kilmer enlisted with the 91st Battalion. Besides his parents he is survived by two brothers and one sister, Emery, Kenneth and Edith, all at home.

A photo of Pte. Kilmer was printed in the Aylmer Express, September 13, 1917.

An account of a memorial service held for Frank was printed in the Aylmer Express, September 20, 1917:

MEMORIAL SERVICE AT FAIRVIEW FOR PTE. FRANK KILMER

The friends of Mr and Mrs Abram Kilmer gave their expression of their sympathy for them, by the large attendance at the memorial service held in Fairview Methodist church last Sunday, Sept. 16th in honor of their son, Pte. Frank Kilmer, who was killed in action in France last month.

Relatives were present from a distance, aunts and uncles from Port Burwell, cousins from Calton, Corinth and Lakeview, aunts and uncles from Straffordville, an aunt from Owendale, Mich., and a number of relatives from the vicinity.

Pte. Frank Kilmer responded to the call of his country on Sept. 22, 1915.  He enlisted in the 70th Battalion, transferring later to the 91st Battalion. He was six months in the midst of the roar of cannons, until on August 19, 1917, he fell in action. He is one more of the Canadian boys who has paid the supreme sacrifice.  He is the second son of a family of five, Gordon, Frank, Emery, Kenneth and Edith.

The service was conducted by the pastor of the circuit, Rev. Chas. R. Gower.  The bible reading selected was the 103rd Psalm and also Ephesians 6: 10-18. The text was taken from John 15:13, “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friend”. The main thought of the sermon was sacrifice, referring to the destruction our country has been saved by the willingness of these men to die for their country and fellowman.

When relatives and friends bring back to memory the face of the departed one, they can say “Frank died in the great war to maintain liberty, Righteous and Justice.”

Frank’s parents are buried in Aylmer cemetery, but there is no marker.  Abram died on October 17, 1932 in Victoria Hospital at the age of 59. His address at the time was R.R. #1 Aylmer.  Anna Jane died on May 14, 1935 in Port Stanley in her 65th year, but was residing in Malahide.

Frank’s name also appears on a memorial monument in Richmond West cemetery.

Abram’s obituary appeared in the Aylmer Express, October 20, 1932:

ABRAHAM KILMER DIED OF INJURIES

Fall in Silo Fatal to Malahide Man

The death of Abraham Kilmer occurred in Victoria Hospital, London, on Monday afternoon, the result of an accident last week when he fell some thirty feet down the chute of his silo on his farm on the fifth concession of Malahide. He was rushed to the hospital on October 11th, and his condition grew worse. Mr. Kilmer was in his 60th year and was born in Malahide.  He was a well-known and highly respected farmer all his life and was a member of the Fairview United Church and a member of the Canadian Order of Foresters at Seville. He is survived by his widow, three sons and one daughter: Gordon, fifth concession; Emery, Kenneth and Miss Edith, at home; also two brothers, Henry, Prince Albert, Sask.; and Wilson, of Port Burwell; three sisters, Mrs. Mary Winters, fifth concession; Mrs. Edward Precoor, Aylmer and Mrs. George Kulp, Straffordville. The funeral will be held at his late home today, Thursday, at 2 o’clock and interment will be made in the Aylmer cemetery.

Anna Jane’s obituary appeared in the Aylmer Express, May 16, 1935:

DEATH OF MRS. ABRAM KILMER

Annie Jane Kilmer, relict of the late Abram Kilmer, of Fairview, died Tuesday night, May 14th, at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Charles Walker, Bostwick St., Port Stanley, after an illness of seven months, in her 65th year. She was born at Kinglake, a daughter of Mr and Mrs Cornelius Wall and after her marriage lived at Straffordville several years before moving to the farm at Fairview, on the 5th con. of Malahide where Mr Kilmer died two and a half years ago.  For the past fourteen months she had made her home with her daughter in Port Stanley.  She was a member of the Fairview United Church and took an active interest in the Ladies’ Aid and W.M.S. She made many friends in that community who sincerely regret her passing. Surviving are one daughter and three sons: Mrs. Charles Walker, Pt. Stanley; Gordon Kilmer and Emery Kilmer, Malahide; Kenneth Kilmer, Brownsville; one sister, Mrs. F. A. Malden, Birmingham, Mich.  The funeral service will be held on Friday, May 17th at 2 p.m. at the home of her son, Emery Kilmer, and Rev. M. C. Smith, of Hickson, will have charge.  Interment in the Aylmer cemetery.

Pte. Charles Edward Kennington

401219  Charles Kennington

photo courtesy of Elgin County Archives

According to the information given on his attestation paper, Charles Edward Kennington was born on September 28, 1885 in Canterbury, Kent, England.  However, a birth record was located for him in English records in 1883. He was the son of Henry George Kennington & Elizabeth Phillips, who were married in Canterbury, Kent in 1879.  The family is found in the 1901 England census in the Parish of Monkton, Kent.  George is employed as a “waggoner on farm” and was born in Reading, Berkshire about 1860.  Elizabeth was born about 1860 in Canterbury.  Charles is working as a gardener on a farm.  Other children in the family were: George (1881); Sarah (1884); Albert (1886); and Frederick (1890).  At the time of Charles’ death in 1916, his parents were living at 14 Myra Street, Plumstead, London, England.

Charles was married to Annie Oliver Hunter in Kent, England in 1903, and had two children born while still in England: Millicent (April 1905), and Frederick (October 1906). Charles brought his wife and two children to Canada in 1907 and lived in Malahide where they are found on the 1911 census (Div. 4, page 6).  He was employed as a labourer.  At least three more children were born to Charles & Annie in Ontario: Jean (September 1908); Charles (1915), and Beatrice.

Charles enlisted for service on July 19, 1915 in St. Thomas.  He and his wife were living at 57 Malakoff Street, St. Thomas, where he was employed as a locomotive fireman.  He had previously served one year in the 25th Regiment, and had also been a R.N. signaler for three years.

Charles died on September 22, 1916 at the age of 35, while serving with the 1st Battalion of Canadian Infantry (Western Ontario Regiment).  He is buried in Pozieres British Cemetery in France.

His wife Annie Kennington died on November 18, 1919 in St. Joseph’s Hospital, London at the age of 40, from Graves disease.  She was the daughter of William Hunter & Annie Armstrong, and is buried in St. Thomas.

Charles & Annie’s son Frederick died on February 2, 1921 at Amasa Wood Hospital, St. Thomas at the age of 14 from appendicitis, and is also buried in St. Thomas. There is no marker.

Their daughter Jean was married to Bert Chilton in November 1925.  Millicent (Millie) was married to Hugh Davis Ashton in June 1924.  Beatrice married Harry Weaver.  

Charles & Annie’s son, W. Charles Kennington, was born April 21, 1915 and died Jan. 5, 1982.  His wife’s name was Marion, and he is buried in St. Thomas Cemetery, West Ave.

Charles Kennington’s death was reported in an article in the St. Thomas Evening Journal, October 11, 1916:

TWO LOCAL MEN DIE IN BATTLE

Ptes. Russell Devlin and C. E. Kennington are Reported Killed

Casualty lists issued at Ottawa both last night and this morning contain names of soldiers from this vicinity who have fallen in the great offensive being conducted along the valley of the Somme and in other parts in France.  Pte. Clarence Russell Devlin and Pte. Charles Edward Kennington have been called upon to make the supreme sacrifice and are today reported to their friends as having been killed while bravely fighting for the empire [article continues with list of wounded].

Pte. Charles Edward Kennington, who adds another to the long list of those have died for Canada’s honor, leaves a wife, Mrs. Annie Kennington, 54 Malakoff street, and five children.  He was a fireman in the freight service of the M. C. R., and a member of the B. of L. F. & E.  He had many friends in this city.  He enlisted here July 20, 1915, and went to the front with a special detachment for service with the 33rd Battalion.  He was 30 years of age when he enlisted and had been working as a locomotive fireman.  He had had three years service in the Royal Navy before coming to this county and afterwards was a year in the signalling section of the 25th Regiment here with Capt. Cash.

Annie Kennington’s death was reported in the St. Thomas Times-Journal, November 19, 1919:

PTE. C. KENNINGTON’S WIDOW PASSES AWAY

Had Resided in St. Thomas For Eleven Years

Five Children Mourn Her Loss
The death occurred at St. Joseph’s Hospital, London, on Tuesday, of Mrs. Annie Kennington, widow of the late Private Charles Kennington, of the 33rd Battalion, who was killed in France in 1916. Mrs. Kennington was born in England and came to Canada with her husband and family eleven yeas ago and had been a respected resident here ever since.  She leaves five orphan children, three daughters and two sons – Millicent, Jean, Beatrice, Fred, and Charles, all at home at 15 St. Anne’s Place. Two brothers and one sister reside in England, and one sister, Mrs. Jean Hunter, in this city.  Mrs. Kennington was a member of the St. John’s church. The funeral will take place on Thursday, Nov. 20 at 2 p.m. to St. Thomas cemetery.  Rev. W. F. Brownlee will conduct the services.

Of Charles & Annie Kennington’s five children, one son Fred, died at the age of 15, as reported in the St. Thomas Times-Journal, February 2, 1921:

FIFTEEN-YEAR OLD LAD DEAD

Eldest Son of Late Pte. Charles and Mrs. Kennington

The death took place Wednesday morning at the Hospital, of Fred W. Kennington, eldest son of the late Private Charles Kennington, of the 33rd Battalion, who was killed at the battle of the Somme.  Mrs. Kennington died Nov. 19, 1919. Deceased, who was 15 years of age, leaves one brother, Charles, and three sisters, Millie, Beatrice, and Jean, all living with aunt, Miss Jean Hunter, No. 2 Queen street. The funeral will take place on Friday at 2 o’clock from the parlors of P. R. Williams & Son to St. Thomas cemetery, and will be private.

Corporal Frederick Harding Learn

829442  Fred Learn

Fred Learn was born on October 18, 1889 in Aylmer, the son of Charles Arthur Learn and Ella May Fitch, who were married March 19, 1884 in Yarmouth Township.  Charles was born in Yarmouth about 1871, the son of Charles & Harriet Learn, and was living in Port Stanley at the time of his marriage.  He was a fruit grower and market gardener.  Ella May Fitch was born in Nova Scotia about 1875, the daughter of Theodore & Lydia  Trena Fitch.  She was living in Yarmouth at the time of her marriage.

Charles & Ella are found on the 1891 Yarmouth Township census (Div. 1, page 51).  They have not been located on the 1901 or 1911 census.  They had at least one other child, Olive Pearl, born June 15, 1888 in St. Thomas.

Fred moved to Winnipeg where he is found on the 1911 census, age 21. He was lodging at the Y.M.C.A., and was employed in a jewelry store.

Fred enlisted for service on January 19, 1916 in Winnipeg, Manitoba.  He was living at Ste. 10, Ashland Court, Winnipeg, and was working as an optical stock keeper.  He had previously served two years with the 90th Winnipeg Rifles.  He lists his next of kin as his mother, Mrs. Ella Mae Learn, of the same address.

Information gathered by the Elgin Military Museum states that Pte. Learn served in the 144th Battalion in Canada, and the 52nd Battalion in France.  He was wounded at Amiens.

Fred died on August 8, 1918 at the age of 28.  He was serving with the 52nd Battalion of Canadian Infantry (Manitoba Regiment). He is buried in Crouy British Cemetery, Crouy-sur-Somme, France.

A photo of Fred accompanying the following notice of his death appeared in the Aylmer Express, September 5, 1918:

Pte. Fred H. Learn, son of Charles A. Learn, and grandson of C. O. Learn, of this place, who was killed in action on August 8th, in France.  Pte. Learn went to school in Aylmer, but enlisted with a Winnipeg battalion, in which city he was living some two years ago.  He has been in France for many months, and has seen some hard fighting.  He always wrote a very cheery letter home, and was hoping to return to Canada to be married soon.  A letter written but a short time before his death appears in another column of this issue

The above mentioned letter was printed in the same issue of the Aylmer Express:

FRED H. LEARN HOPED TO SOON BE HOME

Was Killed in France, August 8th

The following is the last letter written his father, Charles A. Learn, of this place, before me made the supreme sacrifice.  A trench card stated he was well and dated August 7, the day before he died, was received on Tuesday.

Base, France, July 20, 1918

Dear Dad:
Yours of June 5th came a couple of days after I had written my last letter to you.  In your letter you refer to doing of which you have read and I have escaped, if you want to call it an escape, but it doesn’t worry us any, and your old saying about the “miss being as good as a mile”.    I hear good reports of the excellent crop conditions in your part of the Dominion and know how very busy you must be now, and I wish you all good wishes for a very successful year.   Regret to hear of grandfather’s poorly condition and trust he improves because I want him to be well when I get home so we can take a nice walk, and enjoy a cigar, etc.  You will have to congratulate Lou Winder for me on his latest move and I trust I will be doing the same as soon as it is possible, and it doesn’t look very far away just now. 

It is indeed nice to hear of my old friends and Claude Monteith is still in the old town.  Give them my very best regards. 

I did have a fine time where I was but am badly bent just now, however, I will recover, but it is a grand place to enjoy one’s self, when the dough is plentiful.

Will be dangling along some of these fine days and you will know I am always with you all in thought, and think of you many times.

Am on guard tonight, so it gives a fellow a little time for writing.  It has just gone eleven o’clock and all is quiet and peaceful. I wrote grandfather and grandmother a short while ago, and hope the letter arrived safely. Trust this letter finds all well both in London and Aylmer and in closing, my kindest regards to the old friends and much love to you and all.
Ever your loving son,
Fred H. Learn

A poem written by his sister Olive was printed in the Aylmer Express, September 26, 1918:

“HE SLEEPS BENEATH THE POPPIES RED”

Written in memory of Fred H. Learn, who died of wounds on August 8, 1918, in France, by his sister, Olive L. Gillespie, 595 Rathgar Ave., Winnipeg, Man.

Beneath a bed of poppies red, he sleeps – and knows no pain,
Not the troubled sleep of the fighting ones, where battles are fought in the brain.
No roar of guns, nor flash of fire, can disturb his peaceful rest
For he sleeps in the arms of “Mother Earth”, while she folds him to her breast.
For us ‘tis hard to understand, why life ceased, ‘ere it scarce begun,
And over many a cherished plan, dark clouds covered his sun.
Not now, but perhaps in future years, we’ll sometime understand
Why he was called from life so soon, to answer the “Last Command.”
I would that our tears could atone, for the precious blood he shed,
But the poppies over him will bloom, poppies bright as his blood was red.
He died a hero for Freedom’s cause, and nobly he answered the call,
Like many a one, who has gone before, he was glad to give his all.
And though we grieve in our earthly way, for the one lost for a little while,
It won’t be long ‘ere he welcomes us, with the “Sunshine of his Smile.”

Lance Corporal Ian McLeod Lawrance

400960  Ian Lawrence

Although Ian states on his attestation paper that he was born May 7, 1891 in Aylmer, the registration of his birth correctly gives his place of birth as lot 32, concession 14, East Wawanosh Township, Huron County.  He was the son of William Hall Lawrance & Annie Chalfont, who were married on March 29, 1888 in London.  William was born in Scotland on July 14, 1853, the son of Alexander & Elizabeth Lawrance, and was living in Howick Township, Huron County when he was married.  Annie Chalfont was born on May 17, 1868 in England, the daughter of Henry & Mary, and was living at 80 Oak Street, London at the time of her marriage.  Census records show that William emigrated to Canada about 1885, while Annie arrived in 1886.

Two other children were born to William & Annie while living in East Wawanosh Township: Alexander McLeod (1889), and Elizabeth Mary McLeod (1893).  They then moved to Etobicoke, York County where four more children were born: Ethel McLeod (1897); James Galloway (1899), Margaret McLeod (1901), and William Alan (1903).  The family appears on the 1901 census in Etobicoke, where William is a farm labourer.  By 1911, the family had moved to Malahide Township where they appear on the census. William continued to farm there. 

Ian enlisted for service on January 15, 1915 in St. Thomas.  He was a farmer, and was not married.  He had three years previous military experience with the 37th Regiment, and had also served one year with  the 30th Battalion.

Ian McLeod Lawrance died on September 20, 1916 at the age of 25.  He was serving with the 15th Battalion of Canadian Infantry (Central Ontario Regiment).  He is buried in Albert Communal Cemetery Extension, Albert, France.

The Aylmer Express of January 11, 1917 contains a letter written to his parents by a comrade concerning Ian’s death.  A related story appeared in the same issue:

In another column is a letter received by Mr. Wm. Lawrance, of the 9th concession giving particulars of the death of his brave son, Ian, on the battlefields of France.  It was written by a comrade. Deceased enlisted with the 33rd Battalion and held the rank of Sergeant, but in order to get into action as quickly as possible, he gave up his stripes and went as a private with the 15th Canadian Highlanders.  It was not long, however, before he had earned advancement and was made a Lance-Corporal.  It may be remembered that Corporal Lawrance made a most favorable impression at a recruiting meeting in the town hall here about 15 months ago, when he made a strong appeal for the 91st.  As a result of this appeal several Aylmer boys signed up the next day, among them being two from the Express office. As will be learned from his comrade’s letter, Corp. Lawrance was no slacker, and as a consequence was beloved by his comrades.  The diary mentioned has been received by his father, in which there is not one word of complaint nor sign of discouragement.  The entries were made daily and for the last few days show how awful was the situation and the courage required.

The letter reads as follows:

THE PARTICULARS OF CORP. LAWRANCE’S DEATH

The following has just been received by Wm. Lawrance, 9th concession, from Sgt.-Major J. Mutimer, of the 48th Canadian Highlanders, France, which will be read with pride and admiration by the many friends of this youthful hero.

Company Sgt-Maj. J. Mutimer
No. 1 Co., 15th Batt.
48th Highlanders

Oct. 26, 1916

To Mr. Wm. Lawrance:
It is with the greatest of heartfelt sorrow and deepest sympathy, that I now write these few lines to tell you how your brave and noble son met his death.  It was about 4 p.m. of Sept. 20th 1916.  We were out making a road to get our big guns up closer before making a charge.  Your son, Lance Corp. Ian McLeod Lawrance, had charge of about 50 men. The Germans could see us and started to shell us very heavily. The order was passed along to take whatever shelter we could. Your son, who was always one of the bravest, would not take shelter until every man under his charge was under shelter. The shelter only consisted of shell holes and a small ditch that was at one side of the road.  Having seen every one of his men under shelter, he went to take cover himself, but a shell burst right close to where your son was.  Ian fell and we ran straight to him and found he had been wounded in the left shoulder with a piece of shell and that it come out of his chest.  We bound up his wounds and took him to a dressing station on a stretcher. After he was it he never spoke a word and never regained consciousness again. He was taken from the dressing station in a motor ambulance to No. 9 Ambulance station. We were billeted in Albert at the time and when we got back that night I went to the hospital to inquire how your son was, but found that he had died about 8 p.m. of the same night, Sept. 20th.  I can assure you that everything possible to save your dear son’s life was done.  I took his diary out of his kit bag and sent it on to the address where he told me he lived, but his personal things such as his ring and watch were on him and the hospital people are supposed to forward them to his next of kin. There is one thing he always asked me to do, if he got killed in action, and that was to send his ring to his mother and his watch to his brother. I intended writing to you before, but while we were at the Somme, we were kept too busy.  Regarding Ian’s grave I am taking steps to have a photo taken of it and sent to you.  This is all I can say just now, hoping I have done all you required of me, if not kindly write and ask anything you like and if possible I will do your wish.  I must close now.  Hoping you will accept the deepest sympathy of your dear son’s comrade at arms, I am at your service,
J. Mutimer, C.S.M.

An article about the memorial service held for Ian Lawrence appeared in the Aylmer Express, October 12, 1916:

The 30th Battery, Aylmer, attended a memorial service at Chalmers Church, Springfield, last Sunday afternoon, in memory of the late Sergt. Ian Lawrence who was killed on the firing line in France.  Rev. Muttit read the lesson which was followed by prayer and then called upon Rev. Mr. McGee, of Springfield, who preached the memorial sermon.  He spoke with feelings of sorrow and sympathy for the parents and loved ones of the young man who had so gallantly laid down his life for his king and country, and stated that he had not only fought for the aforesaid cause, but for the cause of the King of kings, and that his would be a just and fitting reward.  The church was filled to overflowing, many being forced to stand outside the church, showing the esteem in which deceased was held by the surrounding community. During the service the choir rendered an appropriate anthem, also the Springfield male quartette.

Ian’s father, William H. Lawrance, died in South Dorchester Township (Springfield) on January 27, 1918.  His wife Annie survived him many years, passing away on February 20, 1932 at 82 Coleridge Avenue, East York, at the residence of her son James.  They are buried in Aylmer cemetery. Ian’s name appears on their monument with the following inscription: “Sergt. Ian McLeod Lawrance, born May 7, 1891, killed at the Somme, September 20, 1916″.  Also buried in the same plot are Ian’s three sisters: Elizabeth Mary Burnett (1893 – 1949); Edith McLeod Lawrance (1897 – 1991), and Margaret McLeod Boast (1901 – 1988).

Mr. Lawrance’s obituary appeared in the Aylmer Express, January 21, 1918:

William H. Lawrance died at his home on the townline between Malahide and Dorchester, on Monday morning, January 28th, after an illness of some four months.  Deceased was born in Scotland and has resided in Canada for a number of years.  He is survived by a widow, three sons, and three daughters: Alex, James, Allen, Elsie, Ethel and Margaret.  One son, Sergeant Ian Lawrance, went overseas with the 33rd Battalion from London, and paid the supreme sacrifice in France.  His father was very proud of him, and the news of his death was a hard blow to him. The funeral took place from his late residence yesterday at 10 o’clock a.m., and interment took place in the Aylmer cemetery.

Mrs. Lawrance’s obituary appeared in the Aylmer Express, February 25, 1932:

The remains of the late Mrs. Annie Lawrence, who died in Toronto, were brought to Aylmer, on Tuesday afternoon and interment took place in the family plot here.  Mrs. Lawrence was the wife of the late William Lawrence, former residents near Springfield.

Pte. Thomas Henry Light

675760  Thomas Light

Thomas Henry Light was born on March 15, 1878 in Bayham Township, the son of Obed E. Light & Hulda Maria Pettit.  Obed was a mariner (sailor) living in Port Burwell, and was born in Port Burwell on Sept. 3, 1843, the son of James Light & Harriet Chalk, who were both born in England.  His wife Hulda Maria was born May 10, 1844, the daughter of Thomas Pettit & Hulda Gilbert.

Thomas’ siblings  were Harriet V. (1868 – 1953), Edith Dora (1869); and Janice (1876).

Thomas is found on the 1901 Bayham township census (Div. 1, page 9), a tinsmith, living with Alvin & Effie Wright, a hardware merchant.  He continued the trade of a tinsmith, where on the 1911 Bayham township census (Div. 1, page 12), he is living with William & Ada Smith on East Victoria Street, Port Burwell.

Thomas enlisted for service on March 14, 1916 in Tillsonburg at the age of 39.  He was living in Port Burwell and was a tinsmith and plumber.  He was not married.  He died on May 13, 1917 while serving with the 21st Battalion of Canadian Infantry (Eastern Ontario Regiment).   He is buried in Lapugnoy Military Cemetery, France. Thomas’ name also appears on the cenotaph in Port Burwell.

Notice of his death  appeared in the Aylmer Express, May 31, 1917:

Pte. Thomas Light, who was killed in active service in France.  He is a son of Mr and Mrs O. Light, Pt. Burwell, and previous to enlisting was in the employ of Mr. Frank Light, of this place. Pte. Light tried to enlist with the 91st but was turned down as medically unfit.  Later, however, he enlisted with the 168th Battalion.  Word of his death was received here last Thursday.

Thomas’ father Obed died on January 22, 1925 in Port Burwell at the age of 81 years.  His wife Hulda Maria died on April 29, 1928 in Port Burwell, aged 84 years. They are buried in Calton cemetery.

Mrs. Light’s obituary appeared in the Aylmer Express, May 3, 1928:

The death occurred on Sunday morning of Mrs. Hulda Maria Light, at her home on Victoria street, after a lingering illness.  Mrs. Light, who was in her 84th year had resided in the village for a number of years and was respected by all who knew her.  Her husband Obediah Light predeceased her about four years ago and also her only son, Thomas, who paid the supreme sacrifice in the Great War.  Two daughters survive, also one sister. The funeral services were held on Wednesday, May 2nd, at 2 p.m. from her late residence to Calton cemetery for interment.

Additional details were reported in the Port Burwell news of the Aylmer Express, May 10, 1928:

The funeral was held on Wednesday at 2 p.m. of the late Mrs. Hulda Marie Light, widow of the late Obediah Light, from her late residence on Victoria Ave.  The deceased had suffered a lingering illness and was found dead in bed on Sunday morning.  Mrs. Light, who was in her 84th year, spent her early life in Southwold, where she was well-known and highly respected, coming to this place about 60 years ago, where she has since resided, and has made many friends. Her husband, Obediah Light, predeceased her about four years ago, a daughter a number of years ago, and an only son, Thomas, paid the supreme sacrifice in the World War.  Surviving are two daughters, Mrs. Geo. Gallagher, at home, and Mrs. John Morgan, of London; also one sister, Mrs. F. Chalk, of London. The funeral was held from the late residence to Calton cemetery for interment, the services being in charge of Rev. Lovegrove. The bearers were Geo. Hayes, W. Smyth, P. L. Williams, J. Poustie, D. D. Underhill, J. H. Sutherland.

Driver St. John Arthur Paul Methuen

42713  Arthur Methuen

Arthur Methuen was born on November 19, 1892 in Puncknowle, Dorset, England, the son of Rev. St. John Methuen and Louisa Elizabeth Champion.  He emigrated to Canada in 1912 and settled at Aylmer as a student farmer.  Arthur enlisted for service on September 24, 1914 at Valcartier, Quebec.  His attestation paper states he was a farmer, not married, and had two years’ militia experience in the infantry.  He names his next of kin as his mother, Mrs. E. Methuen, of Vange Rectory, Pitsea, Essex, England.

Arthur died on July 20, 1918 at the age of 25 while serving with the 9th Brigade of Canadian Field Artillery.  He was awarded the British War Medal V.M. 1914-1915.  He is buried in Bagneux British Cemetery, Somme, France.

The records of the Veterans Affairs of Canada contain the following article, accompanied by a photograph of Arthur:

METHUEN, ST. JOHN ARTHUR PAUL, Driver, No. 42713, 12th Battery, 3rd Ammunition Column, Canadian Field Artillery; eldest son of the Rev. St. John Methuen, of Vange Rectory, Co. Essex, by his wife, Louisa Elizabeth, dau of Major-General J. H. Champion; born Puncknoll Rectory, Co. Dorset, 19 Nov. 1892; educated Chigwell School; Edgeborough House School, Guildford, and King’s School, Canterbury; went to Canada in 1912, and settled at Aylmer, Ontario, as a student farmer; volunteered for active service on the outbreak of war, and enlisted in the Canadian Field Artillery 19 Aug. 1914; came over with the 1st Contingent in Oct.; served with the Expeditionary Force in France and Flanders from Feb. 1915, where he took part in many engagements; was invalided home in Aug. 1917; rejoined the battery in France in Nov., and died at No. 56 Casualty Clearing Station 20 July 1918, of wounds received in action near Doullens the previous day. Buried in Bagneux-Gerzaincourt British Military Cemetery near Doullens.  His Commanding Officer wrote: “He died the noblest of deaths, in the service of his country, and was a splendid type of Britain’s sons.  I feel his loss keenly, as he always set an example to his comrades in cheerfulness, devotion to duty and high personal standard, and was truly beloved by his fellow gunners, who will miss him greatly”.

Gunner Ephraim Davis Mitchell

86056  Ephraim Mitchell

Ephraim Davis Mitchell was born on February 10, 1887 in Elgin County, the son of Alexander Mitchell & Elizabeth Davis, who were married on April 17, 1870 in Tillsonburg.  Alexander was born in 1839 in Bayham Township, the son of Thomas & Catherine Mitchell.  His wife Elizabeth was also born in Bayham, in 1851, the daughter of Elijah Davis & Elizabeth Ammerman.

The family is found on the 1901 and 1911 census in Bayham township, where Alexander was a farmer.  Other children born to Alexander & Elizabeth were : Louisa (1870); Maud (1874), Catherine (1877; died 1882), Alberta (1879), Ida (1882) and Stanley Bursford (1891).

Ephraim enlisted for service on June 15, 1915 in Winnipeg.  He was a commercial traveller and had previous military experience with the 25th Regiment in Ontario.  

Ephraim died on September 15, 1916 at the age of 29,  while serving with the 2nd Brigade of Canadian Field Artillery.  His name appears on the Vimy Memorial in France.

A letter to his parents  was printed in a St. Thomas newspaper, in 1916:

WHEN ZEPPELINS BOMBARDED THE CANADIAN CAMP

Signaller Mitchell Tells of Stirring Night at Otterpool

He And His Horse Escaped Unhurt

But He Declares Experience Was Most Horrible He Had Ever Undergone in His Life
D. Mitchell, a former St. Thomas boy, writing to his folks at Eden, Ont., from Otterpool Camp, England, gives some very interesting details of his experience when the Germans bombarded that camp from Zeppelins.  Signaller Mitchell was at one time connected with the grocery firms here of Swinn Bros., J. A. McCance, Egan Bros. and Butler Bros., and will be remembered by a large number of friends.  For the last five or six years he has travelled for the Swift Canadian Company out of Winnipeg and Nelson, B.C.  He enlisted last June at Winnipeg, and is with the Headquarters Staff, Fifth Artillery Brigade, Second Canadian Division, as signaller and despatch rider, in his letter he writes:

“This is a Saturday afternoon, and I am off duty for the day, so I am going to write letters all the afternoon.  I think you’ll remember me telling you about the horse I had at Sewell, “Chocolate”, I call him.  Well, he has turned out to be about the fastest horse in the whole brigade.  I have had several races with other fellows who are supposed to have fast horses, and I always win.  Also he is the highest jumper in the bunch.  I have put him over the bar at five feet seven inches, and I call that some jump.  I’m going to tell you what happened to us just a month ago tonight. This is the first time I have mentioned it in a letter because they put it up to our honor not to say anything about it, but I see it has been in nearly all the papers, and you must have seen it, because mother spoke about it in her letter.  The Germans thought we were having things too quiet here, so , without any warning, they sent one of their “Zepps” along and dropped eight bombs. Four of them hit our camp.  I cannot describe it, but it was horrible. There were fourteen of our boys killed and about seventeen very seriously wounded. They also killed nineteen of our horses and wounded as many more. Some of both men and horses have since died.  I have never put in such a night in all my life.  It was about 9:15 when they came, and I happened to be in the Y.M.C.A. tent writing.  Lucky thing I was too, for otherwise I would probably have been at the other end of the camp. The first three bombs dropped in the H.O.S. lines, and the next in the 17th Battery lines.  The tent I sleep in is only eighteen yards from where one of the bombs fells, but some of my tent-mates were hurt, and our tent is the only one in our lines that didn’t have shrapnel holes in it.  I hurried right back when I heard the noise and there was the greatest confusion I have ever witnessed – pieces of hands and legs here and there, and blood and flesh all over. We had about an hour’s work getting the wounded cared for and away in the ambulances, and to gather together what was left of the poor boys who were killed.  Well, a little later the colonel came and asked the sergeant-major for eight of his best men to saddle up and go out in search of the horses, about a hundred of which had stampeded and were away down the road at a full gallop. I spent from that time until five a.m. in the saddle, covering nearly fifty miles on old “Chocolate”.  By the way, Chocolate was tied between two other horses which were blown to pieces and he didn’t get a scratch. We certainly had an exciting time getting a taste of what war really is.”

Notice of his death appeared in the Aylmer Express, October 5, 1916:

SIGNALLER MITCHELL KILLED ON SOMME

Son of Mr and Mrs Alex Mitchell, of Maple Grove.
Enlisted in Winnipeg

Mr and Mrs Alex. Mitchell, of Maple Grove, received word on Friday last that their son, Signaller Ephraim D. Mitchell, had been killed in action on the Somme front on September 15th last.  Signaller Mitchell enlisted in Winnipeg with the 5th Artillery Brigade and went to England some months ago. Previous to enlisting he was travelling salesman for the Swift Canadian Co., and was doing well.  He had been in France since June, and while in England was very ill with diphtheria. He was 29 years of age and besides his parents is survived by 4 sisters: Mrs. Hatch, of Saskatchewan; Mrs. Lee Bowes, Bayham; Mrs. Ed. Mitchell, Yarmouth, and Miss Bertie, of Copenhagen; also one brother, Stanley Mitchell, of Maple Grove.

A more lengthy article at the time of Ephraim’s death appeared in the St. Thomas Journal, October 2, 1916:

MAPLE GROVE SOLDIER KILLED IN ACTION

Signaller E. D. Mitchell Makes Supreme Sacrifice

Parents Receive Sad Message

Maple Grove, Oct. 2 – Official word was received Thursday morning by Mr and Mrs Alex Mitchell that their son, Signaller E. D. Mitchell, had made the supreme sacrifice at the front in France, September 15.  Much sympathy is felt for the stricken family. This is the second bright young life whose school life had been spent in this neighborhood to be sacrificed on the altar of their country within four months. The other was Pte. Robert Grant of Woodstock, whose name appeared in the casualty list of June.

Signaller Mitchell was at the time of his death, No. 86056 of the 7th Battery, Second Brigade, C.F.A.  He enlisted in Winnipeg, June 1915, as a dispatch rider in the 5th Artillery Brigade. After spending six weeks at Camp Hughes, his brigade was ordered overseas, and it was while en route to the Atlantic he paid his last short visit to relatives and friends in this vicinity. His first three months of training in England were spent at Otterpool, where he nearly lost his life through a German zeppelin raid.  He was afterwards removed to Shornecliffe. 

When his brigade went to France last January, Signaller Mitchell had the misfortune to be laid up with sickness in a hospital, and so became separated from his chums of the “west”, a fact much regretted, and having the added misfortune to contract diphtheria in the hospital, his recovery was so long delayed that he was attached to another division altogether. Taking a special training in gunnery, he expected to have been associated in the future with the 18th Gunners, but on arriving in France July 3, signallers were found to be much needed, and he was immediately retransferred to the work of his first training, in which he continued to the end.

It is the regret of so many families bereaved in this war that they have been able to learn so little of the variety of work as the special dangers undertaken by the lost son or brother. From what meagre information can be obtained, dispatch riding and signalling cover a very dangerous section of war service. Signaller Mitchell, when asked by friends during his initial training at Otterpool, as to his special work, answered that it had “to do with all communications and lines of communication”, a wide field evidently, from heliographing and telephoning, etc., to dangerous dispatch riding. With this answer he gave as illustration of speed test they had been given the day before in putting up a telephone line, “he had it up and working order in 23 minutes”, he wrote, and “received considerable praise from the officers in charge.”  A sample incident sent at a very early date.

Signaller Mitchell, after leaving Maple Grove several years ago, spent some time in St. Thomas. Later he went west, where he remained eight years in the employ of the Swift Canadian Company, as a travelling salesman with headquarters at Winnipeg.  Two years of this time he spent in Nelson, B.C.

So much did his service come to be valued by this well-known company that when Mr. Mitchell felt called upon to enlist with the first contingent going overseas, his employers over persuaded him to remain, as a man especially needed in the business. “But from that time”, Mr. Mitchell told his family on coming east, “my mind knew no rest. I fought against it and fought hard; but it fought me down. I had to go.”  Consequently the enlistment in June 1915 followed.  This is only a touching glimpse of the many hard struggles that must have been silently fought out by thousands of our lads who go cheerfully and calmly have donned the khaki.

The St. Thomas Journal of October 16, 1916 carried an article on a memorial service for Ephraim:

MEMORIAL SERVICE HELD AT MAPLE GROVE

Large Gathering Assembles for the Affair

Straffordville Minister Preaches

Maple Grove, Oct. 18 – (Special) – Sunday there was an unusually large gathering assembled at the Maple Grove church to attend the memorial service held in honor of Signaller E. D. Mitchell who made the supreme sacrifice at the front in France on Sept. 15. The large rural crowds who attend these sad services testify to the deep, silent and universal sympathy felt by the general public in the bereavements of this war.

The services were conducted by Rev. F. Sypher, of Straffordville, who gave an original and soothing address from a test not used ordinarily on such occasions, “as an eagle stirreth up her nest, fluttereth over her young, spreadeth abroad her wings, taketh them, beareth them on her wings, so the Lord alone did lead him, and there was no strange God with him.” Deut. 32:11-12.

Mr Sypher took occasion to mention the names of the other young men who have, as he said, died at the front that we might live – those of Pte. Robert Grant (Woodstock), and Bugler John Hatch (St. Thomas), both of whom spent their youth in this vicinity.

The church was decorated in quiet taste with flags and banks of the cool deep green of ferns from the Otter ravines over which these young men played as lads.

At the close of a well conducted “When Night is Near”, and the rural gathering broke up with the sympathetic hand shakes of long parted schoolmates in the pleasant churchyard.

Besides the sisters and brothers of the deceased, Mrs. L. Barnes, of Maple Grove; Mrs. Ed. Mitchell, of Yarmouth Centre; Miss Bertie Mitchell, Copenhagen; S. B. Mitchell, of Woodstock; Mrs. Dean of Rutland, Sask., not being able to attend; there were present relatives from a distance: Mrs. Hannah Vincent and daughter, Mrs. C. Herrick and Earl Vincent of Aylmer; Mr and Mrs Ed Vincent and family; Mrs. Brokos, Springfield; Ed Stansell and wife of St. Thomas; Mr and Mrs Joe Stansell, and Mr and Mrs Wilton Maguire of Glenmeyer.

A letter received by Ephraim’s sister with particulars of his death was printed in the St. Thomas Times-Journal (date unknown):

GUNNER MITCHELL DIED LIKE HERO ON COURCELLETTE DAY

Former St. Thomas Man Had Dangerous Piece of Work and Would Have Been

Given Medal for Part He Played Had He Lived

Miss B. Mitchell, of R.R. No. 2 Aylmer, has received particulars concerning the death in action of her brother, E. D. Mitchell.  Gunner Mitchell, it will be remembered, spent several years in St. Thomas, being connected with Swinn Bros., Egan Bros., and Butler Bros., groceries, leaving here about ten years ago for Winnipeg, where he spent the remainder of the time until he enlisted.  In the west he was in the employ of the Swift Canadian Company as a traveling salesman.  The letter to Miss Mitchell is from Lt. R. Y. Haultain, and is as follows:

“I have just taken over this department and today I saw the correspondence in which you ask for details of the death of your brother, No. 86056 Gunner E. D. Mitchell, 7th Battery C.F.A.  I was in the 7th Battery then, and knew your brother well, and I know the full circumstances of your brother.  Lieut. Strathy, Gr. Hansford and Gr. Smith went up to the front line, running their telephone wire with them, to register our guns on the German front line trench, about a hundred yards across.  The Canadian corps was in attack at 7:30 a.m., with Courcellette as the objective. Our line then was just east of Poziers, and the Germans held the high ground.  It was a very misty morning, and there was a lot of smoke in the air, as the shelling was very heavy.  We had been pounding the German trenches for several days, and they of course, had retaliated steadily. The party got their telephone connected through to the battery, and were waiting for daylight to start registering. There were very few of our infantry in our front line, as they were in the assembly trenches, waiting for zero time.  In the mist the Germans put over a bombing attack, and got into the same trench as the party from the 7th Battery. This party of four held the trench and made a very gallant stand, shooting several of the Germans as they came down the trench.  They finally started throwing bombs into the bar that our fellows were shooting from.  One bomb hit squarely amongst them, killing your brother and Smith instantly, and, as was thought at the time, Hansford also, and wounding Lieut. Strathy.  It was the first day that the tanks were used, and one was not far behind the trench, so Lieut. Strathy crawled out and informed the commander of what had happened. The Germans got possession of the whole trench.  The infantry did not counter-attack immediately, because the whole corps was attacking at 7:30 for Courcellette, which was two thousand yards distant, so that trench would be taken in their stride. When the big attack started, the artillery fire on both sides was so tremendous that all the ground was churned up and the old trenches filled, making everything quite unrecognizable.  The artillery fire was continued for several days, so that when we got the ground and the old trench, we could find no trace of your brother, Smith or Hansford, so you will understand why it was that we could not send their personal articles back to the department that deals with them.  A letter afterwards arrived from Hansford from a base hospital, saying that he was knocked unconscious and was wounded badly by the bomb, but came to, to find the trench full of Germans, who were walking over him. He remembered that our attack was coming off, so he played “possum” and when the trench was taken at 7:30 he was taken back to a dressing station by our stretcher-bearers. He said that your brother and Smith were both instantly killed, as when he came to he was lying on top of them.  You will see that your brother died like a hero.  Had he lived he would most certainly have been recommended for a medal for bravery.  The two survivors were both awarded medals for holding that trench till the last.  Your brother’s work as a signaller and telephonist was very strenuous, as it meant being in the front trench with the forward observing officer most of the time.  We always prided ourselves in the 7th on having the finest lot of telephonists we saw anywhere.  The place where he was killed was about four hundred yards southeast of the centre of Poziers village (on the Somme).  I know you want all the details possible, as you said in your letter which was received here today, so I have given them all.  He must have had the diary in his pocket.”

Ephraim’s father, Alexander, died on November 17, 1918 in Bayham at the age of 78, and his mother Elizabeth died the following year on January 22, 1919 at the age of 68.  They are buried in Straffordville cemetery.  Ephraim’s name also appears on a monument there, with the following inscription: “Gunner E. D. Mitchell, No. 86056, 2nd Brigade, C.F.A.  Killed in Action September 15, 1916, aged 29 years”.  His name also appears on a memorial monument in Richmond West Cemetery.

Mr. Mitchell’s obituary appeared in the Aylmer Express, November 21, 1918:

ALEX. MITCHELL DIED AT MAPLE GROVE

Mr. Alex. Mitchell, a life long and respected citizen of this place, passed away on Sunday morning about 7 o’clock, after a week’s illness with Spanish Influenza followed by double pneumonia, also a weak heart to which he succumbed, age 77 years.  Besides his sorrowing widow he leaves four daughters, Mrs. Cyrus Dean, of Rutland Station, Sask., Mrs. Leamon Bowes, Maple Grove, Miss Alberta, of Aylmer; Mrs. Ed. Mitchell of Yarmouth Centre, and one son Stanley, at home.  Also two sisters, Mrs. Peter Vincent, Springfield, and Mrs. Atkinson.  The family have the sincere sympathy of a host of friends in their sad bereavement.  It will be remembered that about eighteen months ago the eldest son of the deceased, Ephraim, payed the supreme sacrifice in France.

Mrs. Mitchell’s obituary appeared in the Aylmer Express, January 23, 1919:

Friends and relatives were shocked to hear of the death of Mrs. Alex. Mitchell, of Maple Grove, which occurred yesterday at noon, very suddenly.  Her husband predeceased her less than two weeks ago.  She is survived by four daughters, Mrs. Lee Bowen, Mrs. Ed. Mitchell, Mrs. Dean, of Saskatchewan, and Miss Bertie, of Aylmer; also one son, Stanley, at home. Another son, Ephraim, was killed in France.

Additional details were reported in the next week’s issue, January 30, 1919, in the Richmond news column:

The remains of Mrs. Alex Mitchell were laid to rest last week in Straffordville cemetery.  Rev. Fagan conducted the ceremony.  He gave a very nice address to the sorrowing friends and relatives. Deceased leaves to mourn her loss four daughters and only one son, the eldest boy perishing in the war at Arras, France.  Mrs. L. Bowes, Maple Grove; Mrs. Ed. Mitchell, of Glenmeyer; Miss Bertie, of Aylmer; Mrs. Cyrus Dean, of Rutland, Sask., who unfortunately did not receive the word in time, and Mr. Stanley Mitchell, at home.

Corporal Gordon Earl Moore

189772  Gordon Moore

Gordon Earl Moore was born in Springfield on July 18, 1896, the son of James Lewis Moore & Mabel Ethel Newell.  They were married on January 1, 1886 in Malahide.  James Lewis Moore (1866 – 1946) was the son of William Allan Moore & Ellen Nesbitt.  Mabel Newell (1869 – 1966) was the daughter of Andrew Newell & Eliza Hastings.  Mabel reached the age of 96.  She and James and several of their children are buried in Springfield cemetery.

The family is found on the 1901 census in Dereham Township, Oxford County, but by the 1911 census were living in Springfield.  In 1911, Gordon is living in the household of Talmadge & Gertrude Brooks in the village of Avon, working as a domestic.

Gordon’s brothers and sisters were: Clara (1886 – 1966); Harry Seaborn (1888 – 1889); Annie Eliza (1890-1970); Edith Maude (1892); Burnice; Harold Kenneth (1898 – 1966); Gladys Mildred (1903 – 1907); Clayton Andrew Newell (1905 – 1978), and Shirley (1909 – 1919).

Gordon enlisted for service on November 24, 1915 in Springfield.  His occupation was a clerk, and he was not married.

He died on May 4, 1917 at the age of 21 while serving with the 38th Battalion of Canadian Infantry, Eastern Ontario Regiment.  His name appears on the Vimy Memorial in France.  His name appears on the family monument in Springfield cemetery:

“Pte. Gordon E. Moore, 91st Battalion C. E. F., July 18, 1896 – May 4, 1917.  Killed in action at Lens.”

Although the above inscription gives his rank at Private, the Veterans Affairs of Canada records list him as a Corporal.

A brief announcement of Gordon’s death appeared in the Aylmer Express, May 17, 1917:

Mr. J. L. Moore of Springfield received a cablegram on Tuesday that his son, Gordon Moore, who enlisted in the 91st Battalion, had been killed in France.

Another notice of his death was printed in the St. Thomas Journal, May 15, 1917:

SPRINGFIELD HERO KILLED

Gordon Moore, Formerly of the 91st Makes Supreme Sacrifice in France

Springfield, May 15 – Word has been received that Gordon Moore, son of J. L. Moore of this place, has been killed.  He enlisted with the 91st. Gordon was a fine young man and held in highest esteem. For a number of years he clerked in D. W. Henry’s store here. The family have the sincere sympathy of the whole community.

Driver Andrew Evans Mott

307741  Andrew Mott

Andrew Evans Mott was born on January 18, 1887 in Barton Township, Wentworth County, the son of Valentine Mott & Celeste Emily Fletcher.  Valentine was a farmer in Bartonville, and was born in 1849 in Brant County.  He and Celeste were married on May 11, 1870 in Barton. She was born in 1848 in Binbrook, the daughter of George Fletcher & Susanna Waterberry.

The family is found on the 1901 census in Barton, Wentworth County; and in 1911 in Ancaster, Wentworth County. Within the next few years, they moved to the Dunboyne area in Malahide Township.

Other children in the family were: George (1872); Jessie (1874); Mary (1876); William Henry (1877); James Franklin (1879); Albert Augustus (1881); Anna Edith (1884); Laura Edna (1889), and Florence Jennie (1891).

Andrew Evans Mott moved to Toronto where he is living with his brother George on the 1911 census.  He enlisted for service on January 27, 1916 in Guelph.  His occupation at the time was chauffeur.  He had 2 ½ years previous military experience with the 13th Regiment in Hamilton. His medical examination was conducted the same day by Dr. C. W. Sinclair in Aylmer.  He was assigned to the 43rd Battery of Canadian Field Artillery. 

Information gathered by the Elgin Military Museum states that Drvr. Mott served in the 43rd Battalion in Canada, and in France, the 8th & 10th Brigade of Canadian Field Artillery.

Andrew Evans Mott served overseas throughout the war and returned home in the fall of 1918.  He died on March 28, 1919 in London, Ontario in a military convalescent hospital at the age of 32 years, 2 months and 10 days.  The cause of death was listed as “failing of heart compensation”, a duration of two months; with a contributory cause of death as “valvular disease of the heart”, which he had for 15 months.  He is buried in Hamilton cemetery with his parents.

Notice of his death appeared in the Aylmer Express, April 3, 1919:

Word was received here on Friday last of the death of Evans Mott, son of Mr and Mrs Valentine Mott, of this place, at a London hospital. Gunner Mott had returned home overseas last fall and had been in the hospital taking treatment for some time.  The burial took place at Hamilton on Monday last.

His death was also reported in the St. Thomas Times-Journal, March 31, 1919:

E. MOTT DEAD

Andrew Evans Mott, son of Mr and Mrs V. Mott, of Mt. Salem, died at the London Military Convalescent Home on Friday and the remains were taken to Hamilton, where the family formerly resided, today for interment. He went overseas with the 43rd Battery, and his work as a driver was frequently commended by his officers.  He was 32 years of age and beloved by all who knew him intimately.

The circumstances surrounding the deaths of Evans’ parents are quite sad.  His mother, Celeste, died on June 21, 1924 at lot 25, concession 4, Malahide at the age of 75.  She had lived at that location for the past nine years. Her burial was scheduled to take place in Hamilton, and while travelling on a C.N.R. train to attend her funeral, Valentine passed away on the train between Tillsonburg and Delhi, on June 23, at the age of 75.

Their obituaries appear in the Aylmer Express, June 26, 1924:

VALENTINE MOTT DIED ON WAY TO WIFE’S FUNERAL

Celeste, wife of Valentine Mott, third concession of Malahide, passed away on Saturday morning, June 21st, in her 76th year.  Deceased had been in poor health for the past two years and for many months had been a helpless invalid, bearing her affliction with great Christian fortitude. Surviving are her husband; four sons, George and Frank at home; Edgar, of Stoughton, Sask., and William of San Fransisco, California; three daughters, Edith, at home; Edna, of Toronto, and Florence, of Hamilton. The family moved to Malahide from Hamilton some nine years ago.  Deceased was a member of the Mt. Salem Methodist church and was highly respected in the community.  A service was held at the home on Sunday afternoon at 4 o’clock at which Rev. F. Manning, of the Malahide Circuit, officiated, and the remains were taken early on Monday morning to Hamilton for interment.

Mr. Mott, while on his way to attend the burial of his wife in Hamilton, died suddenly as the train neared Delhi last Monday morning. With his sisters he came to Aylmer and took the 6:05 train, the rest of the family accompanying the remains of Mrs. Mott to Hamilton by motor.  He was apparently in his usual health when he left Aylmer. A double funeral took place in Hamilton Tuesday afternoon and the doubly bereaved family have the sympathy of this community in their loss.

B. Mann

The name “A. B. Mann” appears on the cenotaph in Aylmer, and it is believed to be Arthur Birdsall Mann, who was born September 30, 1897 in Yarmouth Township, the son of Charles H. Mann & Phoebe Grace Fishleigh.

No attestation paper can be found for Arthur, nor is he listed in the Commonwealth War Graves commission or Veterans Affairs of Canada as one of the war dead.  After finding the account of his death below, it was apparent that he was serving with an American regiment.  A World War 1 United States Draft Registration Card was found for an Arthur Mann, born October 5, 1896 in Canada, living at 418 Victory Ave, (name of town illegible), in Erie County, New York.  He was 21 years of age, and was employed as freight brakeman on the L.S. & M.S. railroad.  The record is dated June 5, 1917.  Despite the discrepancy in his date of birth, this is the only record for an Arthur Mann born in Canada.

The above was confirmed after a search of the United States Casualty Lists for World War 1.  There is record of an Arthur Mann, a Private in the 311th Infantry (New York Regiment), 78th Infantry Division, who died March 3, 1919.  He is buried in Oise-Aisne American Cemetery, in Fere-en-Tardenoins, France; plot A, row 39, grave 12.  The date of death in this record matches the date given in the following letter.

The following article appeared in the Aylmer Express, May 22, 1919, which is believed to refer to the above A. B. Mann found on the cenotaph in Aylmer:

ARTHUR MANN DIED OF WOUNDS

His Father Received Particulars of His Death and Burial

Savenay, France March 5th, 1919
Mr. Chas. Mann,  Aylmer, Ontario

My Dear Mr. Mann –
You have no doubt received the government notice of your son, Arthur’s death.  I am representative of the Home Service Section of the American Red Cross in this Hospital and knowing how you must long for fuller details of your son’s illness and last days with us here, I am writing to tell you all that I can.

He has been in one of the wards of Base Hospital 69 where his nurses were very sweet and the kind to give him all that was in their power of attention and care. However, in spite of all this Arthur did not have the strength to resist the poison from his wounds and he died very peacefully at 9:50 a.m., March 3rd, 1919.

I have visited Arthur almost every day for the last three months and have enjoyed doing the few little things I was able to do for him, he was so patient in all his suffering even though I believe he realized that he was not going to get well.

Yesterday morning at 9 o’clock he was buried with military honors in our American cemetery No. 22, grave No. 262-A. The casket draped in an American flag was carried on a caisson, before which the Chaplain and the guard marched in military formation. Chaplain V. O. Anderson read the service, after which a salute of three volleys was fired and taps sounded. This is a wonderfully sweet and solemn service and I wished you might be here to receive the comfort it could bring to you.  The little cemetery is on a hill which overlooks the beautiful Loire Valley.  Other American soldiers lie there, each grave being marked with a white cross bearing the name and organization of the soldier.

If in any way I may be of service to you, please feel free to call upon me at any time.
Very sincerely, Marion B. Thompson

Arthur’s parents, Charles & Phoebe, were married on January 23, 1895 in Aylmer.  He was the son of Noah & Elizabeth Mann, and was born and residing in Yarmouth.  Phoebe was also born and residing in Yarmouth, the daughter of Robert & Elizabeth Fishleigh. Besides Arthur, they had another son, Morley Deloss Mann, born December 3, 1895 in Sparta.

Phoebe Jane (or Grace) died on March 26, 1903 in her 26th year, and is buried in Sparta (south) cemetery.  Arthur was remarried on December 3, 1907 to Nora Ellsworth in Malahide, the daughter of Abram Ellsworth & Sophrona Corpron.

Charles & Phoebe are found on the 1901 Yarmouth census (Div. 2, page 9) with sons Morley & Arthur.  Charles & his second wife Nora were living in Aylmer on the 1911 census (Div. 25, page 12), where he was a blacksmith.  Sons Morley & Arthur are still at home.

Charles Mann died in 1942 and is buried in Aylmer cemetery with his second wife Nora.  Also buried there is Arthur’s brother Morley D. (1895-1969) and his wife Sarah.

Charles Mann’s obituary appeared in the Aylmer Express, February 5, 1942:

CHARLES H. MANN

Charles H. Mann, well-known farmer on No. 73 Highway, three miles south of Aylmer, died on Friday night as the result of a heart attack which he suffered that evening at his home. Born in South Yarmouth township, the son of the late Noah and Elizabeth Mann, he came to Aylmer forty years ago. For nine years he was associated here with A. W. Pierce in the livery business, and for fourteen years with the Aylmer Canning Company, now the Canadian Canners. For the past seventeen years he had farmed south of Aylmer on the former Gloin farm.  He was an adherent of the Aylmer Baptist church.  His first wife predeceased him 37 years ago. Surviving are his wife, the former Nora Ellsworth; one son, Morley, of St. Thomas; one sister, Mrs. Ada Youngs, also of St. Thomas, and two grandsons. Another son, Arthur, was killed in France in World War No. 1.  The funeral was held on Monday at 2 p.m. at the Jas. H. Barnum Funeral Home, and was conducted by Rev. L. E. Mason, of the Baptist Church. During the service Mr. Barnum sang a solo, “Sunrise” accompanied at the piano by Mrs. Dora McConnell Smith. There were many beautiful floral tributes: pillow, wreaths, sprays and baskets, “Charlie”, “Father”, “Grandpa”, from sister, Ada and family; O. E. Jennings and staff; Mrs. Ed Marr and family; McLeods and Hawleys; Mr and Mrs Harvey Marr and family; Mr and Mrs Colin Ellsworth, Mr and Mrs Ern. Carter and A. J.; Mr and Mrs Basil Prideaux and family. Relatives and friends attended the service from St. Thomas, Dexter, London, Byron, Port Stanley, Mt. Salem, Grovesend and Lyons. The pallbearers were Harry Hoggard, Arthur Howe, Guy Percy, Dave Chapman, Ed Herries and Ern. Carter. Interment took place in the Aylmer cemetery.

Pte. Charles Robertson McEwan

123839  Charles McEwan

The Aylmer Express of November 23, 1916 reported the following death:

Word was received yesterday that Charles McEwen, a fine young Scotchman, aged about 23, who worked for John Abell for several years, has been killed in action. He enlisted with the 71st Battalion.

Charles was born on November 15, 1895 in Dundee, Scotland, the son of Peter Girvan & Agnes McEwan of Main Street, Dunshaet, Auchtermuchty, Fifeshire, according to information given in the Veterans Affairs of Canada records.  His attestation paper lists his next of kin as his mother, Mrs. Agnes McEwan, of 230 Hilltown, Dundee, Scotland.  He enlisted for service on September 30, 1915 in London.  

Charles is not found on the 1911 Malahide Township census with the John Abell family, so it is probable that he emigrated after that date.  

He died on November 3, 1916 while serving with the 58th Battalion of Canadian Infantry, Central Ontario Regiment, at the age of 20.  He is buried in Ecoivres Military Cemetery, France.

Shoeing Smith Claude Elmer Orton

189466  Claude Orton and Family

 photo courtesy of Elgin County Archives

Claude Elmer Orton was born on February 23, 1887 in Simcoe, Ontario, the son of James Whitfield Orton & Mary Elizabeth Hopkins.  They were married in Aylmer on August 24, 1878.  James was born in Bayham in 1854, the son of William N. Orton & Roxana Baker. Mary Hopkins was born in 1856 in Aylmer, the daughter of Edwin & Harriet Hopkins.  

James was a blacksmith and lived in Simcoe for a few years before moving to Aylmer, where the family appears on the 1901 (Div. 3, page 5)  and 1911 (Div. 3, page 3) census.  Other children in the family were: Harry;  Ernest Leroy (1880); William Norton (1884); Herbert Deloss (1891); Walter Lang (1894); James (1896); and George Arthur (1898). Mary died on October 23, 1900 in Aylmer at the age of 44 from typhoid fever, and James was married on October 20, 1904 in St. Thomas to Mary E. Newell, the daughter of George Newell & Selina Hopkins. James was widowed again two years later when Mary died on May 5, 1906 at the age of 28 in Aylmer. He was married for the third time on November 15, 1907 in Aylmer to Ella Fero, a widow, the daughter of James Carr & Ella Wheeler.

Claude moved to the Canadian West where he is found on the 1906 census in Souris, Manitoba working as a hired man.  The Aylmer Express reports in the January 21, 1909 issue that Claude Orton was married “in the west”, but no bride’s name is given. He is found on the 1911 census in Red Deer, Alberta, with wife Aggie (Agnes) and daughter Mary E., age 4 months, born in Saskatchewan.  A son, Lloyd, was born later.

Claude moved back to Elgin County, and was living in Bayham Township when he enlisted for service on November 23, 1915 in St. Thomas.  He was a blacksmith and had previous militia experience with the 30th Battery of Canadian Field Artillery. 

A letter written by Claude was published in the Aylmer Express, August 24, 1916:

SERGT. ORTON FINE AND DANDY

Now With the 36th Battalion

Mr. James Strong, of the G. R. Christie Co., has received the following letter from Sergt. Claude Orton, son of James Orton, of this place, formerly of the 91st Battalion.

Dear Friend,
Just a line to let you know that I am all OK and getting along fine and dandy.  Well, old timer, you have no doubt heard what happened to us over here, so will say no more about it.  I sure hurt like [words deleted] for a while though, but we are getting used to it now.  I have tried twice to be a private, but was turned down both times, so am taking another course now.  I will be some educated when they get through with me.  Don’t know about France for me; guess they won’t let me go.  Tried twice and failed. But as the fellow says, ‘Cheer up, the worst is yet to come’. A fine country this is, but say it quick. The good old Maple Leaf for mine every time.  Too many crooked streets and roads here for me. But the country is very pretty. The people use us fine, too, and we have no kick, take it all round.  Well, nearly bedtime. Go to bed with the chickens here, and get up with ‘em too – Your friend,
Sergt. C. E. Orton

No. 189466, C. Coy

36th Canadians

West Sandling, England

Another letter from Claude to the Aylmer Women’s Institute expressing thanks for boxes received was published in the Aylmer Express, October 11, 1917:

AYLMER WOMEN’S INSTITUTE BOXES REACHED TRENCHES O.K.

Mrs. George McConnell,

Dear Friends
Received your parcel this morning and needless to say it was greatly appreciated by me. The socks especially are very acceptable just now for I was beginning to wonder where I was going to get some to replace the ones I have, as they are nearly finished.  They have done their bit alright.  In fact everything in it was simply fine and in good shape, too, although the box was badly bent.  My chum received 2 boxes today too with cakes in them but they were in a tin box and so were spoiled.  Tin boxes are no good unless they are soldered up air tight. I thought perhaps this information would be acceptable to you people for it was a shame to have the work and expense for nothing and the boys won’t acknowledge them as being spoiled so the trouble just naturally isn’t remedied.

There isn’t a great deal I can say for I am a poor hand at the thanking game. Believe me when I say that everything was fine and I am thankful for you kindness. It is fine of all you ladies and all I can say is carry on and keep up the good work and the boys will do the rest.  Now I must close wishing you all the best of luck and some day may you all be rewarded for your trouble.
Yours respectively, S. Smith C.E. Orton

Another letter of thanks written by Claude to the Malahide & Bayham Mission Circle was published in the Aylmer Express, May 30, 1918:

FIRST FRESH PORK IN TWO YEARS

TO GET PARCELS FROM HOME IS LIKE A GLIMPSE OF HEAVEN FROM THE PIT

E. Orton and Capt. Murray Abell Express their Thanks for Parcels from  Malahide & Bayham Mission Circle

France, April 7, 1918
Malahide & Bayham Mission Circle
Secretary, Myrtle Baker

Dear friend:
Just a few lines to let you know I received your Easter parcel O.K. last night, and we had a most glorious blow out on it too.

Your father wrote me and told me the Circle was sending me a parcel and when I wrote to let them know about the meat.  Well, it could not have been better.  I warmed it up last night and eight of us had our first feed of fresh pork in nearly two years.  Needless to say how we enjoyed it, and when food is not overly abundant out here just now it was appreciated that much more. You see over here we always divide our parcels.  There are eight of us living in our little hut, 10 ft wide and 16 ft. long and so I had just enough in my box to give each a cake, a piece of candy and 3 slices of meat. Then I made up the coffee you sent and we had a dandy little feed before going to bed.

Those parcels are one thing you folks will never know the meaning they have for us.  It is more than we can ever tell you of.  Keep up the good work for it is simply a glimpse of Heaven from the Pit.

It has been raining here almost steady for a week and the mud is getting plenty deep,  I can tell you. However, we are I hopes of it being over this summer, so we may be home for Christmas and that is only nine months more of it here.  My, I wish we were only sure of it though.  Well, I must close thanking you all once again for your kindness.
I am your sincerely, C. E. Orton

[the letter in the same column from Capt. Murray Abell will be reproduced in another volume of this series]

Claude died on August 10, 1918 while serving as a shoeing smith with the 5th Brigade of Canadian Field Artillery, at the age of 31.  He is buried in Vrely Communal Cemetery Extension, France.

Notice of Claude’s death appeared in the Aylmer Express, August 29, 1918:

PTE. CLAUDE ORTON MAKES SUPREME SACRIFICE

Son of James Orton, Aylmer – Leaves Wife and two Small Children in Bayham

Mrs. Claude Orton, of Bayham, received official word on Wednesday of last week, notifying her of the death of her husband, Pte. Claude Orton, who was killed on active service in France on August 10th.  Pte. Orton is a son of James Orton of this place, went to school in Aylmer, learned his trade with his father, and was a favorite with all who knew him.  He realized the cause for which England and her allies were fighting and enlisted with the 91st Batt., Elgin’s Own, going overseas on June 25th, 1916.  He was a blacksmith by trade and in England was transferred from the infantry to shoeing smith with a howitzer battery.  Pte. Orton is survived by his wife and two small children, Mary and Lloyd, of Bayham; his father, James Orton, of Aylmer; and seven brothers: Harry and Ernest, of Loraine, Ohio; Herbert, William and Walter, of Aylmer; James and George, in France.

An account of the memorial service appeared in the St. Thomas Times-Journal, September 22, 1918:

MEMORIAL SERVICE FOR PTE. CLAUDE ORTON

Inspiring Sermon is Preached at Richmond Church by Rev. Mr. Mitchell, of Aylmer

Richmond, Sept. 27 – Memorial services were held in the Methodist church here on Sunday to a large audience for S. S. Claude Orton who was killed in France, Aug. 10. S. S. Orton responded to the call of his country and left with Elgin’s Own, the 91st battalion, June 25, 1916, for overseas.  The services were conducted by Rev. Mr. Mitchell, Baptist minister of Aylmer, assisted by the resident minister, Mr. Wilkinson.  Mr. Mitchell delivered a beautiful sermon from the 14th verse of the 11th  chapter of St. John, “Then said Jesus Unto them plainly, Lazarus is dead”.  Mr. Mitchell spoke very forcibly from this text showing that the supreme sacrifice that our Canadian heroes are making is a ransom for the maintenance of our loved liberty and honor, of which the Huns are trying to wrest from us.  During the service the choir sang very sweetly and anthem, “Thy Will Be Done”. And the service closed by singing “Rock of Ages”.  Relatives were present from Simcoe, St. Thomas, Aylmer and many others from nearby.  The deceased leaves his wife and two small children Mary and Lloyd, of Richmond; his father, Jas. Orton; [brothers] William, Wallie, and Herbert, of Aylmer; Harry and Ernest, of Loraine, Ohio; James and George, overseas; James has signed up now for Siberia.

Claude’s father James passed away in Aylmer on October 18, 1940 in his 87th year, and is buried in Aylmer cemetery beside his first two wives.  

It is not known what became of Claude’s widow Agnes and their two children Mary and Lloyd.  Claude’s name also appears on the cenotaph in Port Burwell, and on a memorial monument in Richmond West cemetery.

James Orton, Claude’s father, died on October 18, 1940.  His obituary appeared in the Aylmer Express, October 25, 1940:

JAMES W. ORTON

James W. Orton, one of Aylmer’s best known and oldest citizens died on Friday afternoon, October 18th, at his home on Sydenham street, in his 87th year.  He had been critically ill for some weeks and had not enjoyed good health for the past year. Some ten years ago Mr. Orton underwent a very serious operation successfully in the Mayo Brothers Clinic at Rochester, Minn., but following that experience was forced to give up work.  For the past ten years he has been given loving and tender care by his son, Walter, with whom he made his home.

Deceased was born at Richmond, in Bayham township, but lived practically all his life in Aylmer.  He was an expert wood and iron worker and for many years manufactured and repaired wagons and carriages.  When horse-drawn vehicles gave way to trucks the firm of Orton & Sons manufactured truck bodies and continued with a general repair business.  Mr. Orton learned the trade of blacksmithing with Cropp & Newell, and later took over the business himself.  He soon gave up horse-shoeing to devote all his time to his manufacturing and repair business. He was a man of the highest integrity and a clever mechanic.  For the past number of years the business has been conducted by his son, Walter Orton.  For fifty years the late Mr. Orton was a member of the Aylmer Lodge, No. 94 I.O.O.F., and was also a member of the Aylmer Baptist church.

Seven sons survive: Harry, Ernest, George and James, of Lorain, Ohio; and Will, Herbert and Walter, of Aylmer.  A sister and brother also survive: Mrs. Annie Ford, Waterford, Ohio; and George Orton, of Bayham.

The funeral was held on Monday afternoon at the Atkinson Funeral Home.  All the sons and many other relatives and friends attended. Rev. L. E. Mason had charge and preached the funeral sermon.  He was assisted by Rev. T. G. Mitchell, of Toronto, a former pastor here.  Many beautiful flowers surrounded the casket composed of pillows, wreaths and sprays.  Flower bearers were Frank Davenport, Ivan Steen, John Downing, W. Peckham, Ray Lemon, Huron Sears.  The pallbearers were Dr. C. W. Sinclair, Harry Paupst, H. E. Freeman, Odber McGregor, E. D. Bowlby and Stanley W. Durkee. Among the floral tributes were a pillow, “Father”; wreath and spray from the neighbours; Mr and Mrs O. McGregor, Mr and Mrs G. R. Thompson, Hunting & Fishing Club, Aylmer; Mrs. Maude Orton, Mr and Mrs Fred Orton, and family; Mr and Mrs George Orton, Bertha and Mr and Mrs Von Brown; Lorain friends; Mr and Mrs R. Burgess, Mr and Mrs A. Thurston, Mr and Mrs H. Richardson, Mr and Mrs Klair, Mr and Mrs D. Lewis; Employees Carnation Company, Aylmer; Aylmer Lodge No. 94 I.O.O.F.; Shelp Mill Maintenance Dept., Lorain, Ohio; Rail and Blooming Maintenance Dept, Lorain; Mr and Mrs. Clough, Lorain.

Corporal William James O’Neill

189463  William O'Neill

The name “W. O’Neil” is found on the cenotaph in Aylmer, but records indicate the correct spelling of his surname was “O’Neill”.

William James O’Neill is found in a list of recruits for the 91st Battalion, printed in the Aylmer Express, December 2, 1915 (found earlier in this publication). That article states he was married, and was employed as an egg tester.

William enlisted for service on November 25, 1915.  On his attestation paper, he gives his address as Aylmer, Ontario.  He was born on January 2, 1882 in Lindsay, Ontario. He was married, and he lists his wife’s name as Nellie May O’Neill of 51 ½ Mutual Street, Toronto.  His occupation is egg tester, and he had previous militia experience with the 45th Battalion.

William died on May 4, 1917 while serving with the 38th Battalion of Canadian Infantry (Eastern Ontario Regiment).  He is buried in Boulogne Eastern Cemetery in France.

His death was reported in the St. Thomas Journal, May 10, 1917:

AYLMER MOURNS THE DEATH OF POPULAR PTE. WILLIAM NEIL

Word Received That Well-Known Young Man Has Made the Supreme Sacrifice

Aylmer, May 10 – The news of the death at the front last Saturday of Pte. William (Billy) O’Neil which was telephoned here from Toronto at the beginning of the week by his wife, comes as a shock to the many friends he had in Aylmer and the surrounding district.  Pte. O’Neil was wounded in the arm, head and jaw on Thursday last and was removed to No. 3 General Hospital at Bologne, where he died on Saturday.  He came originally from Toronto and lived in Aylmer for about four years.  He was employed as an egg candler, first with the H. H. Hambidge Co., and later in the same capacity with D. Brodie & Co.  He enlisted in company with John Hanson Jr., in the 91st Battalion, and was a great favorite with everybody while here.

Pte. Orlo Lydia Pound

425707  Orlo Pound

Orlo Pound was born on February 12, 1880 in Malahide Township, the son of John K. Pound & Rhoda J. Kilmer, who were married in Malahide on March 11, 1879.  John was born in Malahide about 1857, the son of Daniel & Lydia Pound.  Rhoda Kilmer was born about 1859 in Malahide, the daughter of William & Sophronia.  

The family is found on the 1901 Malahide census (Div. 2, page 7), where John is a farmer.  In 1909, a sale notice is found in the Aylmer Express for John K. Pound, at lot 8, concession 3, Malahide.  It is believed at this time, John & Rhoda moved to the Canadian West, where they are found on the 1911 census in Edmonton, Alberta.  His mother’s address following John’s death is given as 11723, 82nd Street, Edmonton.

Orlo had one brother, Elijah, who was born in Bayham on August 16, 1881.

Orlo accompanied his parents to the west, and is found on the 1911 census in Marquette, Manitoba, where his occupation is given as “builder”.  He enlisted for service on November 28, 1915 in Winnipeg.  His occupation is given as building contractor, and he was not married.  He had 6 months previous militia experience with the 99th Manitoba Rangers. He was assigned to the 45th Battalion. 

Orlo died on September 11, 1916 at the age of 36, while serving with the 29th Battalion of Canadian Infantry (British Columbia Regiment).  His name appears on the Vimy Memorial in France.  

A photo of Orlo Pound and his brother Elijah, who also served in the war, accompanied the notice of his death in the Aylmer Sun, October 12, 1916:

OUR HONORED DEAD

Pte. Orlo L. Pound, who belonged to the 29th Batt. is a son of John Pound, of Edmonton, who is well known to residents of this section. Pte. Pound was thirty-six years old, having been born and raised in the township of Malahide and went overseas last May. For several years the family have lived in the West and he and his brother Elijah responded to the call for men, the latter being now with the medical corps.  Pte. Orlo Pound made the supreme sacrifice for King and Country on September 11.  The two brothers are shown here, Orlo L., is occupying the chair, and Elijah is standing.

A letter which appears to have been written by Orlo’s parents to the newspaper following his death, was printed in the Aylmer Express, October 19, 1916:

ORLO POUND WAS DETERMINED TO GET TO THE FRONT

To the Editor of the Express:

Pte. Orlo L. Pound, who gave his life for his country on Sept. 11th, 1916, has for several years been a contractor and builder in Manitoba, and was at this business at Birtle, Man., when the war began, where he enlisted twice in 1914 and was to go overseas, but was detained through sickness, after which he gave up his business and went to Brandon and enlisted with the 45th Battalion and helped to guard prisoners through the summer of 1915. Two and fifty picked men being called to go to Winnipeg, Orlo was one of them, and acted as secretary until they arrived in England last March, and being anxious to get to the front he applied for a transfer from the staff to the ranks and got it, soon starting for France. He entered the trenches  the first of June.  He also wrote, ‘I am Doing My Bit, I have had my baptism of fire and am willing to die if need be’.
D. Pound is also a brother and is now with the Medical Corps at the front in France and to our kind friends we would express our heartfelt thanks for their sympathy uttered or unexpressed in this our very sad affliction, Mr and Mrs J. K. Pound

An article following Orlo’s death appeared in the Aylmer Express, November 30, 1916:

In the Express office window may be seen a simple frame enclosing a few engraved words, but they tell a story of life and death; of duty and honor.  Mrs. Eliza Stevens, King St., and Mrs. Annie Chambers, have kindly consented to allow the public a chance to see the message sent to them and to their brother, John K. Pound, Edmonton, by their Gracious Majesties the King and Queen, sympathizing with them in the loss of their loved one, Orlo Pound, who was instantly killed in action by a shell, recently.

Orlo’s father John Pound died in Edmonton on July 5, 1922.  His brother Elijah D. Pound died in Winnipeg on February 11, 1931; and his mother Rhoda died in Edmonton in April 1935.

John’s obituary appeared in the Aylmer Express, July 13, 1922:

Mrs. E. M. Stevens and Mrs. A. L. Chambers, of this place, have received a telegram announcing the death of John K. Pound, their brother, which occurred in Edmonton on July 5th. Very few particulars were received, the message stating that death was caused by a fall on June 28th, which necessitated an operation from which he never rallied.  The funeral took place on Sunday, July 9th, and burial was made in an Edmonton cemetery. Deceased is survived by his widow and on son, Rev. Elijah Pound, and two sisters, Mrs. E. M. Stevens, and Mrs. A. L. Chambers, both of Aylmer. Another son, Arlo, was killed overseas during the war.  The late Mr. Pound was formerly a well known Malahide farmer and lived just west of Dunboyne and has many friends here who will sympathize with the family in their loss.  Deceased had made his home in Edmonton for the past twelve years.

Rhoda Pound’s obituary appeared in the Aylmer Express, April 18, 1935:

Relatives here received a telegram last Wednesday, April 10th, announcing the death of Mrs. J. K. Pound, which occurred at her home in Edmonton, Alberta, on that date.  Her death was sudden. Deceased was formerly Rhoda Kilmer, of the eighth concession of Malahide. Her husband predeceased her.  They moved to the west many years ago. Interment took place in Edmonton. Will Kilmer, Malahide, is a brother; Mrs. Charles Bowen, Aylmer, is a sister.  Another sister, Mrs. Lorne Harper, resides in Midland, Ontario, and Mrs. Annie Chambers, Aylmer, is a sister-in-law.

Pte. Cecil Graden Prowse

123533

and his brother

Lance Corporal Verne Turrill Prowse

189641  Verne Prowse and Pat Freeman

Vern is pictured with Pat Freeman, also of the 91st Battalion

Cecil Graden Prowse was born July 18, 1897 in Petrolia, Lambton County, the son of Samuel John  Prowse & Emma Findley.

His brother, Verne Turrill Prowse, was born October 4, 1896 in Petrolia.  Their father Samuel was a farmer who was born at Port Bruce about 1872, the son of Henry Prowse & Hannah Jeffrey, who later lived at Copenhagen.  Samuel’s wife Emma died on September 29, 1900 in Petrolia at the age of 25 years, from pulmonary tuberculosis.  Samuel returned to Malahide where he is found on the 1901 census (Div. 1, page 6), and 1911 (Div. 12, page 10). He was remarried on August 28, 1901 in Malahide to Aldina Chute, a widow, the daughter of Finley Chalk & Mary Jane Pettit.

Samuel’s father Henry was a native of Devonshire, England.

Cecil enlisted for service on September 18, 1915 in Aylmer.  He was a farmer and was single.  He lists his next of kin as his father, of Orwell.  He died on September 30, 1918 at the age of 20 while serving with the 75th Battalion of Canadian Infantry (Central Ontario Regiment). He is buried in Haynecourt British Cemetery, France.

Verne enlisted for service on December 6, 1915 in St. Thomas. His address is given as R.R. #1 Dunboyne, and his next of kin is listed as his father, of Aylmer.  Verne was also a farmer and had previous militia experience with the 30th Battery of Canadian Field Artillery.  He died on October 7, 1918 at the age of 22 while serving with the 1st Battalion of Canadian Infantry (Western Ontario Regiment).  He is buried in Brookwood Military Cemetery, Surrey, England.

A letter from Verne written from England was published in the Aylmer Express, August 24, 1916:

EXPECTS TO SOON BE IN THE FIRING LINE

Pte. Verne Prowse, of Copenhagen, Writes Home of His Experiences in England and His Trip Across

Miss E. Durdle, of Copenhagen, has received the following letter:

Dear Friend,
Was glad to get your letter, for it is a big treat to hear from Canada. I am well and hope you are the same.  We are a long way from home now – about 4,000 miles from St. Thomas – so you see that we can’t walk back very easy.  For another thing, I don’t think I will try it any way.  If I ever come back I will be able to tell you something about the country.  I had a dandy trip coming over; the water never made me the least bit sick.  There were not very many boys sick. There were six battalions came over on the same boat; so we sure had a dandy trip. After we landed in Liverpool we had about 300 miles to ride on the train. So we are about 50 miles the other side of London, England, and are only about 40 miles from the Front. We can hear the guns plain some days.  I expect to have to go in about six weeks’ time, for there are drafts going all the time from here. As soon as trained they send us away, so you see it won’t be long before I am in the firing line. But never mind, I will look after myself, don’t you fear. 

Well, I must tell you the way they broke us up.  They put some of us in different battalions. They put C Company with the 36th Battalion; so you see they kept most of us together. I am with all the boys I know, so it is not so bad for me. But just the same, it was not a very nice thing to do.  We do not have much fun over here – it is not like St. Thomas. We thought we had to drill hard there, but that was a snap to what we have over here. But never mind, I guess I can stand it.  I never saw anything that could make me come down yet, so I am not going to let this.

I guess there was some time in St. Thomas after we left that night.  I got a letter from a chum of mine in St. Thomas, and he said there was. There was some crowd there to see us boys off, and it is hoped that they will have the chance to see some of us come back.   However, the war is a long way from being over.  It won’t be over for a long time yet, but all I hope is that I get back to dear old Canada.  I like it over here all right. All you can see is soldiers. There are about 10,000 here where I am camping.  We have some place to stay, but it rains about every day.

Will now have to close, as it is getting dark. Good-bye.
Pte. Verne T. Prowse

No. 189641, 91st Battalion
Attached C Coy, 36th Batt.,
Army P.O., London, England

Another letter from Vern was published in the Aylmer Express, March 1, 1917:

IF YOU WANT TO SEND ME ANYTHING, SEND SOCKS

Writes Pte. Verne T. Prowse, to his Aunt, Mrs. Geo. Howse

Says it is Very Cold over There

Somewhere in France, Jan. 12, 1917

Dear Aunt:
I received your letter all O.K., and was very glad to hear from you.  I am well and hope this finds you the same.  I presume you folks had a Merry Christmas. This was a Christmas that was not very merry to me.  But hope to have a better one next year, whether here or in a better land, for I am sure God has been guiding me all the time I have been over here, and he is still going to. So I am not worrying. We are having pretty cold weather here at present and the ground is covered with snow.  So if you want to send me anything please send me socks.  As we need lots of them. It is very cold out here and a good fire would look good to me. But we have no fire so will have to put up with it.  I was not in the trenches for Christmas or New Years.  We were out on a month’s rest. The rest was all right, but it is so very cold.  It is as cold as in Canada and if anyone tells you it isn’t they don’t know what they are talking about, for I know I received a box from a friend the other day, and I tell you a box looks fine to us over here.  I expect to go in the trenches any day now.  I must close for the present and hope to hear from you again soon,
Your loving nephew, Verne T. Prowse.

A letter from Cecil Prowse to his aunt was printed in the Aylmer Express, June 14, 1917:

FRANCE IS VERY PRETTY BUT RUINS ARE TERRIBLE

Writes Pte. C. G. Prowse to his aunt, Mrs. G. Minhinnick, Copenhagen

France, May 11th, 1917

Dear Aunt:
Just a few lines in reply to your letter which I received last night. You don’t know how glad I was to hear from you. I have not heard from Verne (his brother), since about Christmas time, but I hear he is all right. In fact I was at a certain camp (I can’t tell you the name) for about three weeks and all the time I was there he was in the hospital at the same camp, but I did not know it, and two days after I left the camp he came out of the hospital. He was only wounded slightly and has gone back to the trenches.

The weather is very warm over here just now, and it certainly is a lovely country, although the ruins are terrible.  You can walk through the towns and see nothing but ruins.  I am very sorry to hear of uncle’s misfortune and hope he will soon be well again. I know it is hard, but everything will come all right in His own good time. I have been in France over three months and have not seen any of the boys here from Copenhagen.  I hear that cousin Earl is in Shorncliffe camp taking a course. I hope he gets through all right, and I guess he will.  I received your box all OK, and was very pleased to get it. You have no idea how nice it is to receive a box over here.  All the boys know how to appreciate one when they get it.  Will close, hoping this finds you and Uncle in the best of health.
Love to all, C. G. Prowse, No. 123533, 75th Canadians

The brothers’ deaths were reported in the Aylmer Express, October 17, 1918:

LANCE-CORP. PROWSE DIES FROM WOUNDS

His Brother, Cecil, also Reported Killed

Son of S. Prowse, of Orwell, and Former Member of the 91st Battalion,

Paid the Supreme Sacrifice

Mr. Samuel Prowse, of Orwell, received word on Thursday last, that his son, Lance-Corp. Verne Turrill Prowse, was officially reported to have died at No. 4 London General Hospital, Manmartz Hill, S.E., on October 7th.  Lance-Corp. Prowse was a former member of the 91st (Elgin) Battalion with which unit he went overseas.  He was 22 years and one month of age, and prior to enlisting was a farmer at Copenhagen, where he was very popular with all, being a talented young musician and entertainer.  He was twice wounded, the last time at Vimy Ridge, but recovered and returned to his battalion in France.  He was shot through the right lung, left arm and left leg, dying later from his wounds.

A message was also received on Tuesday, stating that his younger brother, Cecil, who also enlisted and went overseas with the 91st Battalion as drummer, has been killed in action.  Cecil was but 20 years of age, and has been a drummer with the C.E.F. in France for months.

Mr. Prowse had but two sons, who have both laid down their lives in their country’s need.  The bereaved father has the sympathy of the community in his bereavement.

Their deaths were also reported by the Copenhagen correspondent in the October 14, 1918 issue:

A deep gloom has been cast over Copenhagen and district by the report of the deaths of Verne and Cecil Prowse, two brothers, who enlisted in the 91st Battalion from Copenhagen, and were killed in action in France. They are the first of the Copenhagen school boys to make the supreme sacrifice. Verne was 22 years of age and Cecil but 20. They are survived by their father, Sam Prowse, of Orwell, and aged grandmother, of Copenhagen, who is 87 years of age. Corporal Verne Prowse was wounded three different times. Cecil was shell shocked over a year ago and had only been back in France a short time when he received the fatal shot.

A letter written from a Mrs. Carr of the Red Cross, to Samuel Prowse regarding the death of his son Vernon, was published in the Aylmer Express, December 12, 1918:

PARTICULARS OF VERNON PROWSE’S DEATH

A letter received by Mr. S. Prowse in regards [to] his son Vernon’s death:

From Mrs. Carr, Canadian Red Cross
The Chase, Farnham Royal Bucks

Dear Mr. Prowse:
By now you will have received the news of your boy’s death from wounds he received, and I am sure that you must want badly to hear what you can of his last hours.  I visited him very frequently during the time he was in the hospital taking him fruit and eggs from the Red Cross in order to keep up his strength, but I am afraid the struggle was always an unequal one for the bullet had passed through the boy’s lung into his spine and so he was grievously wounded in both places, still he seemed so much brighter last week that I felt happier about him, but during the last few days, bladder trouble set in, often the result in spinal cases. I could see he was much worse and that the end was not far off, on Sunday afternoon he was inclined to be lightheaded, but I stayed with him awhile and rubbed his feet for him, and the poor paralyzed leg, it was a  massage that always cheered and comforted him and now and then he smiled at me then asked me for some water to drink which I brought him. He had just had some letters from you and a friend, which pleased him greatly, poor lamb, and I was to write you both and tell you he had received them, and how he was. I think he knew his strength was failing, for he said then to me that he was very bad.  On Monday I came back and when I reached the hospital, I went at once to the ward to see how he was. The screens were around him and sister told me he could not live much longer; a nurse who was one of my best friends and a very sweet girl and who is especially fond of Canadian patients, was sitting with him holding his hand and helping him not to be alone, and though his eyes never left her face he was I think almost unconscious for he had not spoken for some hours, I smoothed that pretty hair of his and laid my cool hand against his forehead and temples so hot with fever, and nurse and I stayed with him.  I praying that God might take him gently from all he had suffered, poor laddie.  I left Nurse Bowen with him while I went to see some more of my lads (I have so many to visit just now and some of them are very sick. The recent fighting has been severe) and when I came back to the ward, he had passed away at 3:15 not long after I had left him.  Dear Mr. Prowse, I feel so sorry for you in your great sorrow and anxiety for your other boy. I tried so hard to get permission for Cecil to come and see Vernon.  I wrote first to the Battery and then to the C.O. of the 75th Bat., on the front, and the matron at the hospital cabled at my request for permission for him to come and see his brother, but with no result. I am afraid they will not give permission at present to leave the front, and in a way perhaps it is just as well for Cecil. It is not easy to come and watch someone you love die, and then go back to the fighting line. It is almost too much to ask of a man who has such odds to face, and for that reason you may feel not too bad, perhaps about it that he did not see Vernon before he died. The minister used often to come and see him, and a number of young boy friends.  I don’t think the lad suffered much actual pain, but he was weary and often in discomfort, and in God’s safe keeping now he is at peace and rest. They will lay him in the cemetery at Brockwood beside all his Canadian comrades who has died as he has for Canada and the Empire. Each lad who is laid there is laid reverently and beautifully to rest by a Canadian Chaplin. The Red Cross sends a sheaf of white flowers in honor of the men. After the service is over, a company of soldiers fire 30 volleys, the pipes play a lament and the trumpets sound the last post, for the soldiers who have done the greatest thing in the world, laid down his life for others. I will take some flowers to lay with the Red Cross ones when they take him down to that cemetery among the Pines.  I hope that you will believe that from the first to last, that sisters and nurses and the boys in the ward and I from the Red Cross have tried to do for the boy what we feel you would have liked to do for him if you had been here.
My deepest sympathy is yours, Mrs. Carr

Since writing this letter, I have learned with great grief, that you have lost your other son (in action) as well. His young friend came to the hospital and told us after Vernon’s death.  It is terrible that you should have such a two-fold sorrow.  I cannot say how distressed I feel for you, I wish I could comfort you in any way, but I feel sympathy is poor comfort, though if it is any at all,  please accept my deepest sympathy.  I hope the young girl friend of Cecil’s will write to you. She was ever so good and kind to Vernon in his illness.  She came often to the hospital and sat beside him for hours, trying to do all she could for him.  There is some talk now of Peace, and if it comes you will feel that you and your boys have given all that was most dear to you for it, and since love and self-sacrifice are the whole essence of a good life, surely you may feel that you and they have done their best for your fellow man. May God bless and comfort you in this sad hour.
Mrs. Carr

Their father, having lost both his sons, passed away in 1943.  His obituary appeared in the St. Thomas Times-Journal, August 4, 1943:

J. PROWSE PASSES, ILL FOR SOME TIME

Leaves Relatives in St. Thomas and District

Samuel John Prowse died in the Victoria Hospital, London, Ont., this morning. He had been ailing some time.  Mr. Prowse was a real estate agent in London where he resided for 35 years.  An adherent of the United Church, he lost two sons in the last war and was predeceased by his wife.  Surviving are two brothers, William, Rogers Corners; Charles W., 21 Elgin street, city; three sisters, Mrs. Sarah Balkwill, 30 Regent street, city; Mrs. G. W. Howse, 89 Elgin street, city; and Mrs. Alex Milne, St. Catharines.  Resting at the C. A. Towers and Son Funeral Home until Thursday morning when he will be removed to the James H. Barnum Funeral Home in Aylmer for services at 2:30 Friday afternoon.  Interment will be in the family plot at Dunboyne.

Pte. William Prosser

189640  William Prosser

On his attestation paper, William Prosser states he was born on April 23, 1882 in St. Thomas.  However, a birth registration was found for William on April 23, 1880 in Ekfrid Township, Middlesex County, the son of George Prosser & Nancy Smith, of lot 18, concession 5, Ekfrid.  William had a twin sister, Lillie May.  Another son, Frank Edward Prosser, was born at lot 12, concession 4, Ekfrid on June 21, 1875.  The father George is listed as a bricklayer in 1875, but was a farmer in 1880.

Perhaps why William states he was born in St. Thomas is the fact that the family moved there very shortly after his birth.  They are found on the 1881 St. Thomas census (Div. 1, page 37), where George is a labourer. With him are wife Nancy, and children Frank, 6, George, 3, William and Lillie, both age 1.

George Prosser was born in Gloucester, England about 1847, the son of Benjamin & Emma Prosser.  He was living in Yarmouth Township when he married Nancy Smith on December 24, 1869 at New Sarum. 

William was employed as a farm labourer in North Norwich Township, Oxford County, where he appears on the 1901 census (Div. 4, page 3), with the family of Franklin & Phoebe House.

He was married on September 30, 1908 in St. Thomas to Jane Elizabeth Hilliker, of Luton, the daughter of Chancey Hilliker (deceased) & Deborah Ferguson.  William was living in Ayr, Ontario at the time and was a farmer. William states that his father’s name was Charles, and that he is deceased. After their marriage, the lived in Malahide where they are found on the 1911 census (Div. 10, page 7).  Living with them is Jane’s widowed mother, Debbie Hilliker.  William’s occupation is given as bricklayer – building.  They had one son at that time, George, born September 1910.  Another son, Vern, was born later; and a daughter Clarissa Lauretta on December 16, 1914. [see obituary below]

William enlisted for service on December 12, 1915 in St. Thomas.  He gives his occupation as cement worker.  He died on October 7, 1916 while serving with the 1st Battalion of Canadian Infantry (Western Ontario Regiment).  His name appears on the Vimy Memorial in France.

An account of a memorial service held for William Prosser appeared in the Aylmer Express, November 2, 1916:

The 30th Battery attended in a body the Memorial Service held at the Church of Christ last Sunday evening for two Aylmer men who had given up their lives in our defence in France.  The unfortunate men were Pte. Frank Brown, son of Mrs. Spriggs, of this place, and Pte. William Prosser, a brother of Mrs. Ben Hilliker, of this place.  Pte. Prosser leaves his wife and three small children to mourn his loss. Pte. Prosser was a member of the 91st Battalion. Rev. W. G. Charlton, pastor of the church, conducted the interesting service, and referred in feeling terms to the deceased.  He stated that Pte. Brown met his death while endeavoring to bring in a wounded comrade who was lying a few yards in advance of the trench when he was shot down. The speaker thought Pte. Prosser would have done the same thing had the opportunity presented itself.  In closing he stated that the sorrowing ones had the heartfelt sympathy of the community, which was evidenced by the large gathering present.

Announcement of William’s death was also reported in the St. Thomas Journal, October 27, 1916:

PROSSER LATEST AYLMER MAN TO DIE FOR HIS COUNTRY

Leaves Wife and Three Children in East Elgin Town

Aylmer, Oct. 27 – Another Aylmerite has given his life for his empire in the person of William Prosser, who was killed on the 19th inst., in the trenches from shrapnel shot. This is sad news for his wife and three children who reside at the corner of Clarence and Fourth avenue. Mrs. Prosser is a sister of B. Hilliker. [the article goes on to give other Aylmer news, then mentions Mrs. Prosser again].  According to the pension schedule in Canada, Mrs. Prosser, who has three children, will receive $182.50 yearly irrespective of the provisions which will be made through the national fund.

William’s twin sister Lillie May was married in 1901 to John Henry Hilliker, a brother of his wife Jane Elizabeth.  Lillie died October 17, 1957.

William’s widow Jane was married on April 3, 1918 to John Roberts in Aylmer.  They moved to St. Thomas where Jane was still living when her brother John Henry Hilliker died in 1943.

William’s daughter Clarissa died on July 2, 1991, and her obituary appeared in the St. Thomas Times-Journal, July 3, 1991:

CLARISSA LAURETTA BARRETT

Services are to be held Thursday for Clarissa Lauretta Barrett of Caressant Care Nursing Home who died Tuesday, July 2, 1991 at her residence. She was 76.  Born in Aylmer, Dec. 16, 1914, daughter of the late William and Jane (Hilliker) Prosser, she formerly resided on Metcalfe Street. She was a retired registered nursing assistant at St. Thomas Psychiatric Hospital.  Survived by daughters Mary and her husband Garry Begg of St. Thomas, and Elenor and her husband Jerry, of Mount Brydges, Ont.  Also survived by four grandchildren and one great grandchild. Predeceased by brothers George and Vern.  No visitation.  Pastor Norman Hare, of Malahide United Church, to officiate public funeral service at the H. A. Kebbel Funeral Home, Aylmer at 3:30 p.m. Thursday.  Burial at Aylmer cemetery.  Memorial donations to the Alzheimer Society.

Pte.  Harold George Purkiss

189512  Harold Purkiss

Harold George Purkiss was born on November 16, 1898 in London, England, the son of George Robert Purkiss & Alice Collett Pearson.

His birth is found recorded in the District of West Ham, Essex, Greater London.  The family is found on the 1901 England census in the parish of East Ham, Essex.  George’s occupation is carpenter & joiner, and he was born in West Ham, Essex. His wife Alice was born in Hastings, Sussex.  In addition to their son Harold G., age 2, they have a daughter, Ivy E., age 7 months.

His father died in 1902 at the age of 35 in England, and his mother is listed as living at 16 Brook Street, Hastings, England after Harold’s death.

It is not known when Harold emigrated to Canada.  He cannot be found on the 1911 census in Ontario.  He enlisted for service on November 30, 1915 in St. Thomas, and gave his address as R.R. # 4 Aylmer.  His next of kin listed is an aunt, Miss Jean Pearson, of 61 Canute Road, Hastings, England.  His occupation was farmer.  

It would appear that Harold emigrated to Canada sometime after 1911 and found work as a farm labourer in the Aylmer area.

Harold died on August 30, 1918 at the age of 19 while serving with the 1st Battalion of Canadian Infantry (Western Ontario Regiment).  He is buried in Upton Wood Cemetery, near the village of Hendecourt-les-Cagnicourt in France.

Pte. Arthur Frederick Roberts

189879  Arthur Roberts

Arthur Frederick Roberts was born January 18, 1898 in Fulham, London, England, the son of Frederick Roberts & Mary Florence Broom.  The family is found on the 1901 census in Northwest Fulham, London, England.  Frederick was a labourer in building and was born in Chophill, Bedfordshire.  His wife Mary Florence was born in Kensington, London.  They emigrated to Canada about 1907 and are found on the 1911 census in Aylmer (Div. 26, page 6), where Frederick is employed as a railroad section labourer.  Two more children were born to them while living in England: Florence May (1901), and Maud Hilda (1902).  Another daughter, Phyllis Violet Mary, was born in Ontario in 1911.

Arthur Frederick enlisted for service on January 18, 1916 in St. Thomas, where he was living at 12 Isabel St., St. Thomas. He lists his mother as next of kin, at the same address.  He was a labourer, and was not married. Another reference gives his mother’s address at 12 Talbot Street, St. Thomas.

He died on July 14, 1917 while serving with the 18th Battalion of Canadian Infantry (Western Ontario Regiment), at the age of 18.  He is buried in Noeux-les-Mines Communal Cemetery, in France.  Information gathered by the Elgin Military Museum states that Pte. Roberts served in “B” Company of the 91st Battalion, and was killed at Miroc.

A brief notice of Arthur’s death appeared in the Aylmer Express, August 16, 1917:

Word has been received announcing the death of Pte. Arthur Roberts, son of Fred Roberts, who was killed in action in France, after being there only five days.

Another notice appeared in the St. Thomas Journal, August 13, 1917:

Arthur Roberts Killed

Word has been received of the death of Arthur, son of Fred Roberts, a former Condenser Employee.  He was killed in action at the front, and had only been in France five days.

The family placed a memoriam in the Aylmer Express, July 25, 1918:

IN MEMORIAM

In loving memory of Private Arthur Frederick Roberts, who died for his King and country, July 14th, 1917, age 18 years and 6 months, buried at Meuse le Mines, France.

One precious to our hearts has gone, the voice we loved is still,
The place made vacant in our home, can never more be filled.
We miss you, oh so greatly, yet we hope to meet again,
When our home will not be broken, but where endless joy shall reign
Mother and sisters

Arthur’s parents are buried in St. Thomas Cemetery, West Avenue.  Their monuments, side by side,  read: 

Florence Roberts, 1874 – 1961

Frederick Roberts, Lance Corp., 2 Battn. C. E. F.  July 15, 1954, age 81.

As evidenced by the above inscription, Arthur’s father also served in the war.  His attestation paper records that he was born November 22, 1875 in Cophill, Bedford, England, and his wife was Mrs. May Roberts, of Aylmer West, Ontario. He was a labourer, and had served one year in the 30th Battery in Aylmer.  He enlisted in Aylmer on September 18, 1915 at the age of 40.  His service number was 123545.

Pte. Albert Thomas Richardson

123782

Albert Thomas Richardson was born on April 26, 1888 in Hove, Sussex, England, the son of Henry & Maggie (or Catherine) Richardson. The family is found on the 1901 England census in Brighton, Sussex.  Henry (born about 1870 in Shorsham, Sussex) was a bricklayer.  His wife’s name is given as Maggie, (born about 1869 in Brighton, Sussex), and their (besides Albert) children are: Henry (born 1884 Hove, Sussex); Jane (born 1888 Brighton, Sussex); Stephen (born 1890 Preston, Sussex); William (born 1894 Preston, Sussex); Maggie (born ca 1894 Hove, Sussex); and Millie (born 1897 Hove, Sussex).  

Information given at the time of Albert’s death states he was a son of Henry and Catherine Richardson.

According to the notice of his death in the newspaper, Albert came to Canada in 1912 and lived in Aylmer for a number of years.  He had been married in England, but was a widower with one son, Leonard Albert Richardson, who was born in 1911 in Sussex. It appears that Leonard remained in England with relatives.

Albert enlisted for service on September 19, 1915.  He was a labourer, and a widower.  He lists his next of kin as Leonard Albert Richardson, his son, at 13 Sloane St., Brighton, Sussex, England.

A letter from Bert to his brother and sister in Aylmer was printed in the Aylmer Express, October 12, 1916:

PTE. BERT RICHARDSON TO UNDERGO OPERATION

Is Now in Hospital at Ramsgate, Eng.

Anxious to go to France. Went Overseas With 91st Batt.

Note – Private Richardson has sent home some excellent photos of the hospital and two excellent photos of the Zeppelin which was recently destroyed in England

Ramsgate, Sept. 26

My Dear Sister and Brother:
I now sit down to write a few lines to you hoping they will find you well, as I am glad to say I am fairly well at present, and am having some great time.  Say, I have not received any letter since last week, but I guess there are some here for me.  I will tell you, they are shifting me from one place to another and it is a while before I shall get it.  I do not know if I told you last time I wrote, I wanted to go over to France and I thought I was going Sunday, Sept. 24. We got our firing nearly done and on Wednesday we went before the M.O. for an examination.  When he came to me he told me to go and have my toe nails out. When I got there they sent me to Moore’s Barracks Hospital Shorncliffe.  I arrived at Moore’s B.H. about 10 o’clock Thursday.  I had to go and put a blue suit on and at 11 o’clock I went before a doctor and he looked at my feet for quite a while and talked about sending me to a special hospital.  So I stayed there Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday. All I did was smoke, read, write, sleep and eat. Some life, and I’m not worrying. Monday morning they came and told me to get ready to go to Ramsgate.  I got my uniform and got ready.  I was driven in an ambulance to Ramsgate and reported at the Granville Canadian Special Hospital.  They took us from there to this place and we were taken to our quarters and now are awaiting to see what is to be done. This place is a big college turned into a hospital.  From what I can hear they tell me Queen Elizabeth lived here. It is a fine place right on the sea front and I will send you some post cards as soon as I can get out.  They won’t let you out all the time you wear the blues.  So you can bet I’m not worrying myself. The weather here is great.  I see by my sheet that they have got me down as “crippled toes” on both feet.  But I guess I shall know what they are going to do with me in a day or two. There have been some more Zepp. raids here. I hope all are well at home.  Will close with love to all. Good night and God bless and protect you. I remain,
Your loving brother, Bert

Another letter was printed in the Aylmer Express, June 14, 1917:

FRANCE IS IN RUINS AND PEOPLE LOOK STARVED

Pte. Richardson, a former Aylmer Boy, writes of the sights he has seen in France.

Thinks Rum is Necessary for Soldiers in the Trenches

In the Field, 12-5-17

Dear Editor:
I thought I would write a few lines to you thinking that you would like to know how I have been getting on since I left Aylmer.  First of all I am with the Western bunch of boys instead of our Elgin boys, owing to some misunderstanding of the army guys here.  I should have liked it better to have been with the Aylmer boys than with strangers. But there it is. We are all fighting for the same cause and I am contented. First of all while I was at East Sandling camp, I was taken off of 5 drafts and they talked of not letting me go to the front. So when the sixth draft was picked I thought I was all Jake for going, but instead of going there I had to go into a hospital. That was on Sept. 21 and stayed there up till the 5th of October, when I was sent to a place close to my home for physical drill. That was Oct. 9th and I stayed until Nov. 18th. While staying there I saw Alf. Grogan and Wynn Christie. I was sent to Bramshott instead of Sandling.  That was where the mistake was made sending me to the wrong place.  I went into training again and left there Jan. 13, 1917, for a sea-side place camp and had not been there long before I was picked for a draft for France.  Left there Mar. 8th and arrived in France the same day, after being on the water for only two hours. We marched to camp, 3 miles from where we landed and believe me, it amused me to see the French women and children selling stuff.  Left that place March 10th, for the base, and after traveling in box cars for 10 hours we arrived at our base and that was where I saw a lot of the 91st boys from St. Thomas. I also saw Donald Benson.

In that time I had seen a good many pretty sights and some awful ones. As we were going along in the train the women and children would run along the track after us for our bully beef and we used to throw it to them. They looked so starved, poor creatures. Then as we went on we saw girls doing men’s work at the coal mines, and believe me, that is heavy work for girls. They could not have been more that 16 to 20. On a bit father we would see some German prisoners working and we greeted them lovely?  Left there the 19th of March for our Battalion. But before we joined them we were on fatigue and were supposed to do work at a laundry. There were some more scenes I saw.  If the people of Canada saw it, I don’t know what they would say. They don’t realize that there is a war on. But these French women do. I saw these women and children waiting out in the rain (and believe me it was pouring) from 7 a.m. till 5 p.m., for washing, with only a shawl over their heads, and they were wet through. Some never got any at all. That was an every day occurrence. I joined the batt. on Sat. before Easter Sunday and next day (Easter Sunday) night I was in the firing line and went over the top.  I guess you read all about the great victory we gained on the 12th.  We certainly had a rough time.  In water up to our knees all night and came out at 4:30 and made the attack. It was a miracle of God’s because as soon as the attack started a terrific snowstorm came up and blew in on the German lines so they could not see what was being done.  Well, we were in for six days and in that six days we went over the top 3 times. Then we came out for 6 days and went back again for six more and held the line and came out to the Reserve trenches for 6 days and then went back in the front lines. This being on May 6th, we had a terrible cutting up. Fritzy sent over that liquid fire and poisonous gas, but we stuck to them like glue and drove him back.  Bus as I have said before, we had to sacrifice a lot of good fellows. I was lucky and came out safe. 

This country is all ruins here now and I guess after this war is over (which I hope will not be long) there will be a lot of people coming over touring these places.  But give me Canada if I get through this safe. I should like to have the luck to see the finish of it. I shall come back to Canada at all possible speed I can, and never leave it again in a hurry.

Well, there seems to be a lot of people grumbling about the soldiers having their rum.  I have [n]ever tasted any intoxicating drink at all, but I take my rum and 99 out of every hundred soldiers do. I can not see there is any harm in it. If there was I should not take it.  But it is more of a nourishment and medicine than anything else.  Just fancy being out in the rain and mud and freeze all night and cannot get any warmth at all. It makes you feel as if you want something to warm you up.

Give my kind regards to all the Aylmer people.  I will not take up much more of your space, so I will close, but before closing I should like to tell you we are hunting nearly every spare moment we get.
I remain, the Good Old Aylmer Boy,

Pte. A. T. Richardson, No. 123782, 44th Batt. B. E. F., France 

Albert died on October 12, 1918 while serving with the 44th Battalion of Canadian Infantry (New Brunswick Regiment).  He is buried in Seaford Cemetery, Sussex, England.

Notice of his death appeared in the Aylmer Express, November 7, 1918:

Mr and Mrs Harry Richardson, received the sad news on Friday, of the death of the former’s brother, Pte. Bert Richardson, who was killed in action last month.  Pte. Richardson was well known having lived here several years before enlisting, and his many friends will learn of his death with deep regret.

The following week, a photograph of Albert appeared in the Aylmer Express, November 14, 1918, with the following caption:

Pte. Albert (Bert) Richardson, who was reported killed in action in France last week.  Pte. Richardson, who is a brother of Aviator Harry Richardson, of this place, was born in Brighton, Sussex, England in 1886 and came to Canada in 1912.  For a number of years he made his home in Aylmer.  He enlisted and went overseas with the 91st Battalion.  He went through several operations before he was permitted to go to France, and after a few weeks in the trenches was mortally wounded.

Albert’s death was also reported in the St. Thomas Times-Journal, November 2, 1918:

PRIVATE BURT RICHARDSON, AYLMER MAN, FALLS IN ACTION

Brother of Driver Harry Richardson

Aylmer, Nov 2 – Word was received yesterday morning of the death of Private Burt Richardson, who was killed at the front last month.  Burt was an Englishman and a brother of Driver Harry Richardson, also of Aylmer, who has served his time and was invalided home after a long chapter of painful accidents.  The deceased soldier worked in town as a laborer, and also for the canning factory previous to his enlistment, and had a number of friends who will be sorry to hear of his death.

Albert’s brother Harry, referred to above, is found in the 1911 census in Aylmer, with his wife Clara.  Both were born in England, and emigrated to Canada in 1907.  Harry was a mason for house building.  Harry John Richardson died on April 22, 1946 in London as the result of injuries from an accident at the age of 63 (born 1884).  His wife Clara (Pressnail) died March 25, 1948.  They are buried in Aylmer cemetery.

Harry’s obituary appeared in the Aylmer Express, April 25, 1946:

HARRY RICHARDSON DIES FOLLOWING ACCIDENT

Aylmer Man Crushed by Truck at Air School

Mr. Harry Richardson, who was badly injured last Thursday at the Aylmer Air School, when he was run over by a truck, passed away on Monday afternoon at Victoria Hospital, London.  He was 62 years of age on April 12th this year and was born in Hove, Sussex, England, a son of the late Mr and Mrs Henry Richardson. He came to Canada 39 years ago and followed the trade of a bricklayer.  He had been employed at the Airport since its opening in 1941.  A member of the Anglican Church, the deceased was also a member of Canadian Legion, Branch No. 81, Aylmer.  Left to mourn are his wife, in Aylmer, and three sisters in England. The funeral will be held from the Allen Funeral Home, Talbot Street East on Thursday afternoon at 2:30 o’clock. Interment will be in the Aylmer cemetery.  Members of the Canadian Legion and returned men are asked to meet at the Funeral Home at 2:20 o’clock.  Medals and berets will be worn where possible. As many members as possible are asked to attend and bring their cars.

Pte. William Petrie Richardson

466579  William Richardson

William Petrie Richardson was born October 1, 1880 in Aylmer, the son of Peter Richardson & Anna Amelia Meston, who were married in Tillsonburg on November 10, 1875.  Peter was residing in Aylmer at the time, and was a widower.  He was born on November 5, 1838 in Frodingham, England, the son of Peter & Elizabeth Richardson. He emigrated to Canada bout 1860 and became a grain and coal merchant in Aylmer.  His wife, Anna Amelia Meston was born in Middleton Township, Norfolk County on July 22, 1860, the daughter of William & Eleanor Meston. She was also residing in Aylmer at the time of her marriage.

Peter & Anna Amelia are found on the 1881 Malahide census (Div. 3, page 23), and in Aylmer 1891 (Div. 1, page 51); 1901 (Div. 3, page 6), & 1911 (Div. 26, page 2).  Besides William, they had a daughter Dollie, who born about 1876 and died in 1886. William is still living at home with his parents in 1901, but is not enumerated with them in 1911.

William moved to Edmonton where he enlisted for service on July 16, 1915.  He was employed as a clerk, and his address was 10020 103rd Avenue.  He lists his next of kin as his wife, Lillian Richardson.

William died on September 8, 1916 at the age of 37, and is buried in Warloy-Baillon Communal Cemetery Extension in France.  He was serving with the 8th Battalion of Canadian Infantry (Manitoba Regiment).

Notice of his death appeared in the Aylmer Express, September 21, 1916:

Mrs. Peter Richardson, John street north, received the sad message last Saturday that her son, Pte. Will Richardson had been killed on the battlefield in France, his skull having been fractured. Pte. Richardson enlisted for overseas service in Edmonton and went across last spring. Some ten or more years ago he moved to Edmonton where he married and has since made his home.  He was 37 years of age, and besides his mother, leaves his wife to mourn his loss.  His wife resides in Edmonton, and spent a couple of months this summer with Mrs. Richardson here.  His father, the late Peter Richardson, predeceased him some years ago.  Pte. Richardson is the first Aylmer boy, who was born here, to give his life for his country.

A photo of William, accompanied by the following article, appeared in the Aylmer Sun, October 5, 1916:

Pte. W. P. Richardson was the only son of Mrs. Peter Richardson, of Aylmer, and was well known here, having been born in this place thirty-five years ago.  A number of years ago he went West to seek his fortune and when the war broke out he enlisted with the 8th Batt., 2nd Brigade, 

B.E.F.  He made the supreme sacrifice in France on Sept. 8th, after being in the trenches two months. The news of his death came as a great shock to his mother, as she was receiving cheery messages from his regularly.

Details of a letter sent by one his comrades was printed in the St. Thomas Journal, October 13, 1916:

Mrs. Peter Richardson Hears From Friend of Her Gallant Soldier Son

A Shrapnel Victim Was Pte. Richardson

A Brave Man
Aylmer, Oct. 13 – Mrs. Peter Richardson received yesterday from a friend of her son, Pte. W. P. Richardson, recently killed in action, particulars of his death. He was struck in the head by shrapnel about eight in the morning and taken as soon as possible from the trenches to the dressing station where he died about ten at night without having gained consciousness.  The letter testified to his great coolness and bravery under all circumstances.  The trench he was in was completely destroyed, so that his knapsack and other belongings were lost, only some rings and photographs on his person being saved and forwarded to his wife.

An “In Memoriam” appeared in the Aylmer Express, September 13, 1917:

In loving memory of Pte. Wm. Petrie Richardson, dearly beloved and only son of Mrs and the late Peter Richardson, who was killed on the battlefields of France, Friday, Sept. 8th, 1916.  “Greater love hath no man than this”   His Mother

William’s father, Peter Richardson, died on September 11, 1912 in Aylmer in his 74th year.  His mother Anna Amelia lived until 1940, passing away in Aylmer on November 18.

Mr. Richardson’s obituary appeared in the Aylmer Express, September 12, 1912:

Mr. Peter Richardson who for many years has been one of the most respected citizens of Aylmer passed away at his one on the corner of Forest and John streets on Wednesday the 11th inst.  He was in his younger days an active business man and of no one was the saying more true that his word was as good as his bond.  He was in his 74th year, and leaves a widow and one son, William, who is now in the Northwest.  Funeral services will be held at the house on Friday afternoon at 2:30.  Interment in Aylmer cemetery.

Mrs. Richardson’s obituary appeared in the Aylmer Express, November 21, 1940:

MRS. PETER RICHARDSON

In the passing away Monday evening, November 18th, of Mrs. Peter Richardson, Aylmer lost a respected and well-known resident for many years.  Born at Paris, Ontario, the daughter of the late William and Eleanor Meston, she came at an early age with her parents to Malahide township, and after her marriage has continuously resided here.  Having herself been a teacher, she never lost her keen appreciation of everything of an educational feature.  Her fondness for good literature, combined with a remarkable memory, made her an interesting conversationalist. A member of St. Paul’s Church for many years she took an active part in all work of the church. Of a kindly disposition she made many friends.  Her husband predeceased her 28 years ago.  A daughter died at the age of 9 years. A son, William P., was killed overseas during the first Great War. She is survived by nieces and nephews. Mrs. Thos. Early and Mrs. James Melton, of Tillsonburg, are nieces. The funeral will be held from the late residence, John street north, on Thursday afternoon (today) at 2:30 o’clock.  Interment in the Aylmer cemetery.

Pte. Louis Raymond

288651

Louis [or Lewis] Miland Raymond was born October 28, 1872 [or 1871],  probably in Malahide Township, where his parents were living, in the Lakeview community.  He was the son of George Raymond and Lucy Taylor, who were married in Malahide on September 21, 1870.  George was born in Bayham or Houghton township in 1848, the son of Levi & Charity Raymond.  Lucy was born in Houghton Township, Norfolk County, in 1850, the daughter of Jabe & Charlotty Taylor.

The family is found in Malahide census records: 1881 (Div. 1, page 27); 1891 (Div. 1, page 1); 1901 (Div. 1, page 14), and 1911 (Div. 12, page 12).  Other members of the family included Frank Leland (born 1874), William Wallace (born 1877), and Nettie Pearl (born 1880).

Louis was out on his own working as a farm labourer in the 1891 Malahide census (Div. 1, page 8).  By 1901, he had moved to Fleming, District of Assiniboia East, “The Territories”, where he appears on the census there as a farm labourer.  He is living with C. O. & Elizabeth Saxton, no doubt originally from Elgin County and perhaps the reason Louis moved out there to work.

Louis returned to Malahide where he is found on the 1911 census (Div. 12, page 12), living with William Martin and working as a farm labourer.  However, he moved back out west to Fleming, Saskatchewan where he enlisted for service on May 18, 1916.  He names his next of kin as his brother William Raymond, of Port Burwell.  He was not married, and was employed as a railway engineer.  He had previous military experience, serving one camp with the 25th Battalion in St. Thomas.

Information gathered by the Elgin Military Museum states that Pte. Raymond served with the 78th Battalion, and fought in the battles of Vimy, Arras and Mons.

Louis served throughout the war and returned to Canada, taking up residence once again in the West (probably in Fleming, Saskatchewan). He died on March 8, 1923 from an illness related to the war, and his remains were brought back to Aylmer cemetery for interment.

Notice of his death was reported in the Aylmer Express, March 15, 1923:

The remains of the late Louis Raymond, who passed away on Thursday last at the Gray Nun’s hospital in Regina, arrived in Aylmer Tuesday night, and the funeral took place at 1 p.m. yesterday under the auspices of Malahide Lodge No. 140 A.F. & A.M.  The remains were accompanied by C. H. Wilson, of Fleming, Saskatchewan, who returned home yesterday afternoon. Will Raymond, of Pt. Burwell, is a brother of deceased, and Mrs. Elgin Chute is a sister.  Mr. Raymond’s death was caused from the effects of the war.

Additional details were written in the Lakeview news column of the same issue:

A telegram came Thursday morning to relatives, announcing the death of a former Lakeview boy, Mr. Louis Raymond, in Regina, where he had been ill in the hospital for many months.  Mr. Raymond suffered an illness contracted overseas in the late war.  He was unmarried, and was the son of the late Mr and Mrs Geo. Raymond.  He had many friends here.  He was fifty years of age. A sister, Mrs. Elgin Chute, of Grovesend, and a brother, Wm. Raymond, of Port Burwell, survive.  The remains were brought to Aylmer Wednesday for interment.

A military marker in the Aylmer cemetery contains the following inscription:

288651 Pte. Louis Raymond 78th Bttn. C. E. F.  8 Mar 1923

His name also appears on his parents’ monument in Aylmer Cemetery.  His father George died on July 17, 1916 in Malahide, at the age of 71.  His mother Lucy, had predeceased him by a number of years, in 1886.  Louis’ brother William (1877 – 1935), is also buried in Aylmer cemetery.

Sergeant Harry Simpson

Harry Simpson lived in Aylmer and / or Malahide for a few short years prior to enlisting for service in the war.  He is found on the 1911 Malahide township census (Div. 4, page 11), a labourer living with Francis & Edna Snelgrove.  The census records state he was born in March 1894 (age 17), in England, and that he emigrated to Canada in 1910.

Harry’s attestation paper cannot be found in Canadian records, nor is he listed as one of the casualties in the Veterans Affairs of Canada records.  As evidenced by the article in the Aylmer Express, September 23, 1915 below, it appears that Harry returned to his home in England and enlisted there.

HARRY SIMPSON, A FORMER AYLMER BOY, GIVES HIS LIFE FOR THE EMPIRE

On Monday, the 20th inst., a letter was received by Rev. C. Miles, from Mr. H. A. Simpson, of London, Eng., giving an account of the death of his son, Harry, who was well and favorably known to many in Aylmer and vicinity. Mr. Simpson writes as follows:

“I am sure you will be sorry to hear that my son, Harry, was killed in action on August 11th.  He enlisted in Sept. 1914, in the Royal Field Artillery and was called to his regiment in October.  At the end of 3 weeks he got his first stripe and in three weeks more made Sergeant.  He was stationed on the South Coast till June last. On July 15th he left for Flanders.  He was in action on the 9th, 10th, and 11th of August and was killed by the premature explosion of a shell from his own gun, with two other men, while two more were wounded.  His officer wrote to say that he was the only No. 1 who was not a regular soldier, therefore worked under great difficulties. But being the hardest working Sergeant in the Battery, he overcame all difficulties, and in action his gun was always the first ready to fire. Another Sergeant wrote of him as a model soldier and a good lad in every respect. He often spoke with gratitude of his friends in Aylmer, and I feel I am only doing what he would like in telling you of his death.  His younger brother was wounded at Westubert”.

Harry was a prominent member of the A.Y.P.A. of Trinity church here, and of the choir, of splendid and likeable character.  Noble in life and death.

A search in the Commonwealth War Graves Commission records failed to reveal a Harry or Henry Simpson with a date of death on August 11, 1915.  However, there is a Pte. Henry Simpson, #16971, who died on August 19, 1915, age 20.  He was serving with the Sherwood Foresters, a Nottinghamshire & Derbyshire Regiment.  His name appears on the Helles Memorial.  It is not clear why his rank is listed as “Private” in these records, when his father states he was a Sergeant.  It cannot be stated with any certainty that the above record actually refers to “Harry Simpson” whose name is found on the Aylmer cenotaph.

A Harry Simpson was found on the 1901 England census who in all probability is the man who was killed in action as found in the Commonwealth War Graves Commission records.  It could also be the same Harry Simpson who lived in Aylmer, although it cannot be determined.  Harry’s father’s name is unknown, other than his initials were “H. A.”.  A  family was found in the 1901 Nottingham (Notts), England census: Henry Simpson, age 39, window cleaner, born Spalding, Lincolnshire; wife Maria, age 37, born Worksop, Notts; children: (all born in Nottingham, Notts) – William, age 16, Beatrice, age 12, Harry, age 8, Violet, age 5, May, age 3, and Rose, age 3 months.  A marriage record was found for Henry Simpson and Maria Traunter in 1884 in Worksop District, Nottinghamshire.  This could be the family of Harry, since his regiment was from Nottingham.

Pte. Charles Edward Startup

190025  Charles Startup

Charles Edward Startup was born on September 20, 1883 in Chatham, England, the son of Edward John Startup. The family is found on the 1891 England census in the parish of Yalding, Kent. Edward J. Startup’s occupation is given as “publican & bricklayer”.  His wife’s name is Sarah, and there are three daughters from her previous marriage living with them, with the surname of Whyman: Gertrude M., age 19, Beatrice, age 14, and Ethel, age 13. Other children are Kate E., age 9, Edward C., age 7, Daisy M., age 5, and Bertrand, age 2, all children of Edward & Sarah.  He is found with his father, a widower, on the 1901 England census in Yalding, Kent County.  His father is age 56, a journeyman bricklayer, born in Yalding.  The children are Charles, age 17; Daisy, age 15, and Bertram, age 13, all born in Yalding.

A marriage record was found in 1881 for Edward John Startup and Sarah Whyman in the District of Islington, Greater London, Middlesex.  Sarah’s maiden name is unknown, as Whyman would have been the surname of her first husband.

There is an Edward Startup found on the 1911 census in Toronto, a boarder, born England, who emigrated in 1911.  This may be the above Charles Edward Startup.

By 1916, Charles was living at 16 Celestine Street, St. Thomas when he enlisted for service on February 19.  He was employed as a labourer, and lists his next of kin as his father, living at 47 Edward Street, Chatham, England.  He was not married.

Charles died on September 19, 1916 while serving with the 1st Battalion of Canadian Infantry (Western Ontario Regiment).  He is buried in Sunken Road Cemetery, Contalmaison, Somme, France.

The St. Thomas Journal, January 2, 1917  carried an article about a memorial service for Ptes. William Antill and George Startup:

MEMORIAL SERVICE AT AYLMER FOR SOLDIERS WHO HAVE DIED

Trinity Church Honors Memory of Pte. Antill and Pte. Startup

Aylmer, Jan. 2 – The memorial service at Trinity Church on Sunday night was largely attended. The 30th Battery was present and fathers, mothers, wives, children and widows of our boys were noticed in the large congregation. The rector was awake to the occasion and so framed the service and the splendid sermon that it harmonized with the object in view. The musical part was fine, and the solos by Mr. Bearss and Miss Hilda Brown were exceptionally good.  The soldiers for whom the service was held were Pte. William Antill and Pte. George Startup.  Pte. Antill, when he enlisted lived in the west end of the town and was a relative of the Clearers [sic – should be Cleavers], and Pte. Startup worked for John Sweet on the 9th concession of Malahide. They met their deaths in the same engagement.  A three-cornered fort was doing great damage to our boys, and it was determined to take it.  The order was given and they leaped out of the trenches and in one grand rush killed or captured the Huns in possession.  Startup was killed in the rush, but it was all over when a ball struck Antill dead.

Note that the article gives Pte. Startup’s first name as “George”, not “Charles”, but this is believed to be an error. Pte. Antill’s name is given as “William” while it was in fact “Wallace”. Another discrepancy is the statement that both men died in the same engagement.  Official records give Pte. Startup’s date of death as Sept. 19, 1916; while Pte. Antill died November 18, 1916.

Driver Bartholomew John Timpany

307691

Bartholomew Timpany was born April 6, 1893 at Calton in Bayham Township, the son of John Haines Timpany and Eliza M. Baker.  They were married on January 2, 1883 in Malahide.  John was born on August 3, 1858,  the son of Bartholomew & Sarah Timpany and was living in Bayham.  Eliza was the daughter of Judson & Eliza Baker, and was living in Malahide. Eliza died on February 14, 1899 at the age of 37, and John was remarried to Ida Alberta Chalk on March 6, 1901.  The family farm was at lot 1 and 2, concession 4, Bayham Township.

John and his second wife and the children from his first marriage are found on the 1901 and 1911 census in Bayham Township.  Other children in the family were: John L. (born Oct. 8, 1883; died March 1884); John Irving (born Sept. 5, 1885); A. Albert [probably Delbert] (born Jan. 19, 1887); and Etta (born Dec. 18, 1896). 

Bartholomew was a farmer and enlisted for service on January 1, 1916.  He was living in Aylmer at the time and was not married.  His father is listed as the next of kin, at R.R. #1 Dunboyne.

Shortly after enlisting, Bartholomew was married on February 24, 1916 in Malahide to Estella May Pound, the daughter of Wilson Pound & Rebecca C. Lindsay.  He lists his residence as Calton on that record.  Estella was born June 20, 1896, and was living in Malahide.

An account of their marriage appeared in the Aylmer Express, March 9, 1916:

On Thursday, Feb. 24th, a very pretty wedding took place at the home of Mr and Mrs Wilson Pound, Talbot street, when their second daughter Estella Mae became the bride of Mr. B. J. Timpany, formerly of Malahide township. Promptly at six o’clock, to the strains of Mendelssohns wedding march, the bride entered the parlor on the arm of her father and took her place beside the groom, under an arch of evergreens and flags.  An impressive ceremony was performed by the Rev. Thomas Mitchell, of Aylmer. The bride looked charming in her bridal robe of ivory duchess satin and veil, and carried a large bouquet of white roses and maidenhair ferns. She also wore the gift of the groom, a beautiful gold wrist watch. Besides several cheques they received a number of useful and costly presents testifying to the high esteem in which they young couple are held. After congratulations the bride led the way to the dining room where a dainty lunch was spread, the room being tastefully decorated with flags and national colors. Her going away gown was a blue broadcloth suit with blouse of white silk meteor and black hat with plumes.  After spending a few days with friends, they left for Guelph, where the groom is in training in the Canadian Field Artillery, for overseas service.

Bartholomew  served with the 5th Division Ammunition Col., of the Canadian Field Artillery, and survived until after the war was over.  He died on January 2, 1919 from an illness,  at the age of 25.  He is buried in the City of Paris-Cemetery, Pantin, Seine-St-Denis, France

Notice of his death appeared in the Aylmer Express, January 9, 1919:

Relatives and friends in Aylmer and vicinity, of Gunner B. J. Timpany were shocked to learn that his father, John H. Timpany, of Calton, had received a cable on Monday from the Director of Records, which read as follows: “Deeply regret inform you 307691 Pte. B. J. Timpany, artillery, officially reported died, Station Hospital, Paris, France, January 2nd”.  Gunner Timpany enlisted some three years ago and has been in France and taken part in many battles, never being wounded throughout the fighting.  Last week he was reported among those ill and in the hospital, but the news of his untimely death came as a great shock.  Besides his parents, he is survived by two brothers and one sister: Delbert, of Glenchen, Alberta; Irving, of Tillsonburg, and Mrs. Demude, of Hamilton.  Also his wife and infant son, who during his absence have made their home with her parents, Mr and Mrs Wilson Pound.

Bartholomew and Estella’s son Stewart Timpany was born on February 22, 1917.  In 1944 when Estella’s father Wilson Pound passed away, his obituary names a daughter, Mrs. Bart Timpany and Stewart of Beamsville.

Bartholomew’s father, John Haines Timpany passed away on September 1, 1956 at the age of 98.  He is buried with his wives in Calton cemetery.  Bartholomew’s name is also on a monument there with the following inscription: “In memory of B. J. Timpany, born April 6, 1893, died January 2, 1919 while on active service in France”.

Pte. Harry Newton Thompson

190087  Harry Thompson

Harry Newton Thompson was born June 3, 1893 in Wallaceburg, Ontario, the son of Caleb Thompson & Annie Barnes, who were married in Bayham Township on January 21, 1867. Caleb was born in 1846 in Bayham, the son of John (a native of England) & Rhoda Thompson, and was living in Bayham on the 1861 census. His wife Annie Barnes was also born in Bayham in 1850, the daughter of George & Frances. 

Caleb & Annie are found on the 1881 census in Aylmer (page 53), where he is an engineer.  They have one son, Charles, age 6. They do not appear in the 1891 census in Aylmer.

Caleb died on September 27, 1899 at the age of 53.  His address at the time was 9 Christina Street, Sarnia.  He was an engineer. His widow and son cannot be found on the 1901 census.  Annie and her son Harry moved to Malahide Township, where they are found on the 1911 census (Div. 10, page 8). 

Harry was married on May 7, 1913 in Luton to Elva Mary (May) Hawley, daughter of John Hawley & Phoebe Corporon.  Both were living in Malahide at the time.  Mention of their marriage was reported in the Fairview news column in the Aylmer Express, May 15, 1913:  

“Harry Thomson returned home with his bride on the 7th inst, and the boys gave them an old fashioned charivaree”.

Harry enlisted for service on March 17, 1916 and was living in Corinth.  He was a farmer, and had three months’ previous military experience with the 25th Regiment R.C.R. in London.

Harry died on April 7, 1917 at the age of 24 while serving with the 2nd Battalion of Canadian Infantry (Eastern Ontario Regiment).  His name appears on the Vimy Memorial in France.

His wife, Elva, was born on December 30, 1880, and died in 1961. She is buried in Luton cemetery.  The inscription on her monument reads: Elva M. Hawley, 1880-1961, wife of Harry N. Thompson, killed at Vimy Ridge 1917.

Notice of Harry’s death was reported in the Fairview news column of the Aylmer Express, May 3, 1917:

The sad news reached here last week that Harry Thompson, one of our boys here had been killed in action on the 8th inst.  He was a private in the 91st battalion that went over seas last summer.

Harry’s name also appears on the cenotaph in Port Burwell, and a memorial monument in Richmond West cemetery.

Elva did not remarry, and died in October 1961.  Her obituary appeared in the Aylmer Express, October 25, 1961:

MRS. ELVA THOMPSON

SPRINGFIELD – Mrs. Elva Thompson, resident here for the past 17 years, died in hospital in St. Thomas on Friday afternoon in her 81st year.  She had been ill for the past 11 months.  A daughter of the late John and Phoebe Hawley, of Mount Salem, she had lived in Brownsville for many years before coming here.  She was a member of the Brownsville Baptist Church. Her husband, Harry, was killed at Vimy Ridge in 1917. She is survived by one daughter, Mrs. Harry (Violet) Bearss, of Springfield; one brother, William Hawley, Aylmer; three sisters, Mrs. Mary Kloenhamer, Detroit; Mrs. Meloia McKnight, Aylmer; Mrs. Aldert Wilcox, St. Thomas, and five grandchildren.  Service was held Monday afternoon at the Ross Shaw Funeral Home here.  Rev. W. Bellsmith of the Baptist Church officiated. Burial was in Luton Cemetery.

Pte. William Turner

53747

The name “W. Turner” appears on the Aylmer cenotaph, and the closest reference found to match this name from Elgin County is that of William Turner, who was born December 7, 1893 in Tunbridge Wells, Kent, England. He was the son of James & Clara Jane Turner.

William’s parents are found on the 1891 England census in Rusthall, Speldhurst Parish, Kent.  His father James was stonemason, born 1851 in Tunbridge Wells. Other children in the family were Henry (born 1878); Florence (born 1879); James (born 1881), Elsie (born 1886; and Leonard (born 1891).

William (“Willie”)  is found on the 1901 England census in Tunbridge Well, Kent with his widowed mother, Clara J., age 50, a laundress, born in Rusthall, Kent.  Other children in the family were James A. (Born 1881); Elsie M. (Born 1886), and Leonard (born 1891).  The census gives their birthplaces, including “Willie”, as Rusthall, Kent.

William emigrated to Canada, although he cannot be found on the 1911 census.  He enlisted for service on November 3, 1914 in St. Thomas.  His occupation is given as “horseman”, and he was not married.  He lists his next of kin as his mother, Mrs. Clara Turner, of 2 Osborne Villa South Street, Crowborough, Sussex, England.

His address is not given on the attestation paper, but it is possible he was living in Aylmer or had lived in Aylmer prior to enlistment. 

William died on September 15, 1916 at the age of 24, while serving with the 18th Battalion of Canadian Infantry (Western Ontario Regiment).  Information gathered by the Veterans Affairs of Canada states he is the son of the late James and Clara Jane Turner, of Gladstone Rd., New Town, Rusthall, Tunbridge Wells, England.

His name appears on the Vimy Memorial, France.

An article printed in the St. Thomas Journal when William was wounded appeared in the October 13, 1916 issue:

PTE. WILLIAM TURNER AMONG THE WOUNDED

Left Here With the 18th – Was a Horseman and Had Many Friends Here

In the morning’s casualty lists, which were issued at Ottawa, appeared the name of Pte. William Turner of St. Thomas, among the wounded.  Pte. Turner enlisted here early in 1915, and went to the front with the 18th Battalion. He was then 22 years of age, single and had had no previous experience.  He gave his occupation in civil life as that of a horseman.  His next of kin was his mother, Mrs. Clara Turner, 2 Osborn Villa, Cranborough, Sussex, England. Pte. Turner’s service number is 53747.  He worked in this vicinity for some time before enlisting and had made quite a number of friends since coming to this country.

It cannot be verified that the above William Turner is the “W. Turner” on the Aylmer cenotaph. The records of the Veterans Affairs show the death of William Turner, Service Number 53747, on Sept. 15, 1916.  It is not known why his name did not appear in the casualty list as wounded, until October 13.

Further mystery is added by a report in the St. Thomas Journal, December 6, 1916, reporting the death of a William Turner. The article reads as follows:

THREE FORMER 91ST MEN IN CASUALTY LISTS

Pte. William Turner and Pte. J. E. Goddard Reported Killed – One Wounded

Three more local men are mentioned in the casualty lists, all of them being 91st Battalion men and one soldier has been killed. The names of Pte. William Turner, 189624, B. Co. 91st Battalion, and Pte. John H. Murphy, of Vienna, are mentioned in the list of those killed in action, and Pte. J. E. Goddard, of West Lorne, is listed with the wounded.  The only record available at the local recruiting office concerning Pte. Turner is that he enlisted here Dec. 12, 1915 and was on April 20, 1916 transferred to the 70th Battalion on orders from district headquarters.  No official message has been received in this city concerning Pte. Turner’s death, and it is presumed that his is one of those rare cases where the name gets into the list before the official notification has been given the friends.

It is believed that the report on the casualty list reported the wrong William Turner.  The records of the Veterans Affairs of Canada and the Commonwealth War Graves Commission contain no listing for a William Turner with the service number of 189624.  The attestation papers for a William Turner bearing that service number gives his address as Chatham, and his birthplace as White Roding, Essex, England, on January 8, 1891.  His next of kin was his father, Charles Turner, of Roneford, Essex, England.  He was a farmer and was not married.  He had spent six months in the militia in England.  He enlisted in St. Thomas on December 13, 1915.

Even the Journal seemed unsure of who this man was, and it is believed to be a case of mistaken identity.  The other William Turner first mentioned died on September 15, 1916, and it is possible that his name did not appear on the casualty list until December.

The Journal printed a list of 124 Elgin men dead or missing in its December 21, 1916 issue, and the name of William Turner is not included.

Pte. Charles Henry Westbrook

190225   

Charles Henry Westbrook was born on June 4, 1896 at 28 St. Christopher Place, Wigmore Street, London, England.  

He emigrated to Canada as a boy of twelve on July 23, 1908 on the ship S.S. Tunisian, and arrived in Quebec on July 31, 1908.  He was part of the party from McPherson’s Home, destined for Stratford, Ontario.  It is not known if he was an orphan, but he cannot be found on the 1901 England census.

There is a Charles Westbrook found on the 1911 census in Huron Township, Bruce County, born September 1896 in England, emigrated 1909, living as a “domestic” with Donald & Marguerite Martyn.

He later made his way to Elgin County, and was living at R.R. #4 Aylmer when he enlisted for service on April 7, 1916 in St. Thomas.  He names his next of kin as Miss Daisy Westbrook, R.R. #4 Aylmer.  He was a farmer, and was not married.  He had previous military experience with the 30th Battery in Aylmer.

Charles died on October 1, 1918 at the age of 24, while serving with the 1st Battalion of Canadian Infantry (Western Ontario Regiment).  He is buried in Sancourt British Cemetery, France.

His sister Daisy is found on the 1911 census in Aylmer, a “domestic”, born June 1898 in England, who emigrated in 1908.  She is living with Levi & Sarah Brooks.  Information gathered after Charles’ death by the Veterans Affairs Commission lists Charles as a brother of Mrs. Daisy Ollin of 25 Weldon Avenue, St. Thomas, Ontario.

A marriage record was found for Daisy Evelyn Westbrook, age 20, residence St. Thomas, born England, daughter of Charles Westbrook, (mother’s name not known), to Thomas Neil Allin Jr., age 20, born & residence St. Thomas, a fireman (probably with the railroad), son of Thomas Neil Allin & Alvertine Harvey, on September 6, 1918 in St. Thomas.  

Daisy and her husband moved to Pontiac, Oakland County, Michigan in 1923 where they are found on the 1930 census there.  He was a foreman in an auto factory.  They had four daughters, the three eldest being born in Canada: Marian E., age 11; Dorothy J., age 9; Betty A., age 7; and Caroline H., age 1 yr. 8 mos (born in Michigan). The United States Social Security Death Index shows Daisy Allin, born June 26, 1898, and died August 1977 in Pontiac, Michigan.

Notice of Charles’ death was reported in the Aylmer Express, October 24, 1918:

The death of Pte. Chas. Westbrook was reported last week. He was killed on active service at the front on October 1st.  Pte. Westbrook was employed on the farm of Mr. Jos. Bradt, on the 9th concession, previous to enlisting.

A more detailed article appeared in the St. Thomas Times-Journal, October 16, 1918:

FOUGHT IN EVERY BIG BATTLE IN THREE YEARS

Pte. Charles Henry Westbrooke, One of the Heroes of the War, Reported Killed

Mrs. Neil Allin, Railway street, was officially notified Thanksgiving Day that her brother, Pte. Charles Henry Westbrooke, had been killed in action in France on October 1.  Pte. Charles Westbrooke came to Canada when a lad and had been engaged in farming in the vicinity of Aylmer for several years, and he was highly esteemed by all who knew him.  He enlisted and went overseas with the 91st Battalion. When the Battalion was broken up in England, he went to France three months later with the 2nd Battalion and was one of the real heroes of the war, having fought through every big fight during the past three years, and escaped injury, although buried by a shell explosion at the battle of Vimy Ridge. Pte. Westbrooke used to describe himself in his letters to his friends in St. Thomas and Aylmer as “Lucky Charlie”. Several of his letters were printed in the Times Journal and the Aylmer papers.  Three letters received by his sister last week told of the terrible experience the Canadians had gone through to gain and capture their objective.  In one letter he described as advancing twelve miles and fighting the brutal Hun every inch of the way, which took the Canadians five days to accomplish.  “In this battle”, he said, “I lost twelve of my chums”, and he “felt the good Lord had protected him and brought him through safely”, and he hoped to come home to dear Canada.  The young hero was only 23 years of age, and is survived by an only sister, Mrs. Allin, of this city.

Pte. William Gordon Wickham

A/482  William Wickham

William Wickham was born on June 2, 1896 in Maidstone, Kent, England, the son of Frank Gordon & Agnes Mary Wickham.  The family is found on the 1901 England census in Wrotham, Kent, living at “Springcroft”.  William’s father Frank was a poultry farmer, born in Winchester, Hampshire in 1853.  His wife Agnes Mary was born in 1859 in Evenlode, Gloucester.  Other children in the family included: Sybil Mary (born 1887 in Carshalton, Surrey); Marion Primrose (born 1890 in Croyden, Surrey); Arthur Frederick (born 1892 in Maidstone, Kent); and May Violet (born 1894 in Maidstone, Kent).  The census states that William Gordon was born in E. Malling, Kent.

William emigrated to Canada, but it is not known where he was living in the Aylmer area.  He cannot be found on the 1911 census, so it is possible he emigrated after that date. He enlisted for service on January 18, 1915 in St. Thomas.  He lists his next of kin as Frank G. Wickham, of Ipswich, Suffolk, England.  William was a farm labourer, not married, and had three years previous military experience, serving in the officer’s training corps in Framingham, Suffolk, England.

William died on July 12, 1916 at the age of 19, while serving with the 1st Battalion of Canadian Infantry (Western Ontario Regiment).  He is buried in Lijessenthoek Military Cemetery, Belgium.  Information gathered by the Veterans Affairs Commission at the time of his death gives his parents’ address was 60 Ackender Rd., Alton, Hants (Hampshire), England.

Sergeant Arthur Warren Youell

338011  Arthur Youell

Arthur Warren Youell was born August 25, 1888 in Aylmer, the son of George Warren Youell & Alice Jane Burwell, who were married on September 13, 1882 in Port Burwell.  George Youell was born in Middleport, Ontario on April 1, 1855, the son of George Youell (born in Ireland) & Teresa (or Clarissa) Warren (born in Whitby, Ontario).  Alice Burwell was born in 1857, the daughter of Leonidas & Jane Burwell.  George was a merchant living in Bracebridge at the time of their marriage, while Alice lived in Port Burwell.

They first lived in Bracebridge where a son, George Harold Burwell Youell was born on July 23, 1883.  By 1886 they were living in Aylmer where a daughter Helen Marion Youell was born on Sept. 10, 1886, Arthur in 1888, then Leonard Lynde Youell on September 15, 1894.

The family is found on the 1891 census in Aylmer (Div. 1, page 38), where George is a dry goods merchant; in 1901 (Div. 2, page 16), and also in 1911 (Div. 25, page 18).

George Youell died on October 19, 1924, aged 69 years, in the Homewood Sanitarium in Guelph, where he had been a patient for five months.  His wife Alice died in Toronto on December 16, 1942 in her 80th year.  They are buried in Aylmer cemetery.

Arthur enlisted for service on September 28, 1916 in Toronto.  He was living in Aylmer and was a mechanical engineer. He was not married. 

Arthur died on November 12, 1918 at the age of 30, from wounds received on August 6.  He was a graduate of the University of Toronto.  He was serving with the 8th Brigade of Canadian Field Artillery. He is buried in Southampton (Hollybrook) Cemetery, Hampshire, England.

A notice of his illness was reported in the Toronto Star, August 30, 1918:

SGT. YOUELL SERIOUSLY ILL

Mr. George Youell, of Aylmer, Ont., has received notification that his son, Sgt. Arthur W. Youell, M.M., who was admitted to No. 47 General Hospital on August 8th is seriously ill from the effects of 45 gunshot wounds.  He went over as a private and won his promotion on the field.  He has been recommended for a commission, and had received orders to be ready to leave for England to take a course about the date the offensive began.  Another son, Lieut. Leonard Youell, M.C., is still at the front.

A biography of Arthur is found in the “Roll of Honour 1914 – 1918” published by the University of Toronto in 1921:

ARTHUR WARREN YOUELL; Aug. 25, 1888 – Nov. 12, 1918; 

Sergeant, Canadian Field Artillery.  Son of George W. Youell; born Aylmer, educated Aylmer Public School and High School; Applied Science 1906-1910, B.A. Sc (Mech. Eng. – Hon.); Staff, 1910-1912; Canadian Ingersoll-Rand Co., Sherbrooke, P.Q.

In September 1916 he enlisted in the 67th, University of Toronto, Battery, C.F.A., and went overseas the next month.  He was promoted Sergeant in England, but reverted to go to France in March 1917.  Having served in the 1st Divisional Ammunition Column, he transferred after the battle of Vimy to the 24th Battery, in which he was again promoted Sergeant in July.  He served through the battles of Vimy, Hill 70, and Passchendaele. In the latter he won the Military Medal for maintaining communication with a signal lamp for several hours, during which he remained in the open under heavy fire.  He was offered a commission on the field in April 1918, but refused, preferring to go to England to take a complete course.  He was about to leave for this purpose, when on the night of August 6th, just before the Amiens advance, he was wounded at the battery position by a splinter from an aeroplane bomb.  Blood poisoning developed later and he succumbed on the day after the Armistice. Buried at Southampton, England.

Notice of Arthur’s death, accompanied by a photo, appeared in the Aylmer Express, November 21, 1918:

SERGT. ARTHUR W. YOUELL, M.M., DIED OF WOUNDS

All Aylmer was shocked to learn on Monday that a cable had been received by Mr and Mrs George Youell, that their son, Sergt. Arthur W. Youell, M.M., had succumbed to the wounds received at Ameins, on August 7 last.  He was known to be n a serious condition, but the cheery letters received from him had led his parents and hosts of friends to believe that he would pull through.  Deceased was a exemplary young man in every sense of the word, and apparently had a brilliant future before him.  In our issue of October 24 appeared an article telling of the splendid work accomplished since his enlistment. At the time he signed up he had just completed a three years’ contract with a large Canadian Engineering firm, them members of which did all in their power to induce him to continue, as they considered him indispensable.  It was our privilege to see a letter written by them in which they said he was worth with them in war work at least as much as one hundred men in the trenches. They went so far in their effort to retain his services as to appeal to the Department asking that he be prevented from going.  Copies of this letter were distributed among recruiting officers to prevent his acceptance, but after spending a few days in Muskoka, he slipped quietly down to Petawawa and enlisted with the first unit going overseas.  When the Company finally realized his views that it was the duty of a young man physically fit to go and leave home work to men not fit or with dependents, and he found a man to take his place, they withdrew their opposition and presented him with a fine wrist watch and suitable address, and then split up the work so that two men filled the dual position he held as head of the designing and drafting department and assistant to the chief engineer.  Had Sergt. Youell not felt his place could filled he would not have enlisted as he had not the least military ambition or taste.  His death is a heavy blow to the writer, who was a chum of his earlier years, and a strong admirer of his many many qualities and ambitions.

A lengthy article appeared in the Aylmer Express, January 8, 1920, accompanied by a photograph of Arthur, when a bronze tablet was unveiled in Trinity Church, Aylmer:

BRONZE TABLET IN MEMORY OF SERGEANT A. W. YOUELL, M.M.

Popular Young Aylmer Man Gave up Distinguished Career to Serve His Country and Died in England November 12, 1918, From Wounds Received on the Battlefields in France.

A bronze tablet was placed in Trinity church last Sunday in memory of the late Arthur Warren Youell, who died in an English hospital the day after the armistice was signed, from wounds received at Amiens in August.  He was born in Aylmer and educated at the schools here and Toronto University, taking the degree of B.A. Sc.  After spending a year there as demonstrator he accepted a position on the engineering staff of a company, specializing in mining machinery, in Sherbrooke, Quebec, on a three-year contract.  When war broke out he tendered his resignation that he might enlist, but was informed that they wished him to finish his term, as they were about to engage in making munitions, and would need him in the assisting of designing and installing the necessary machines. For this purpose he spent several months in the Company’s three factories in the United States, getting most valuable information, the result of which was that they were soon turning out the best eight-inch shell made in Canada, and their orders were so numerous that they were obliged to double the capacity of their own factory in the town, employing in all 2,500 men and a million dollars worth of munition machinery.

When everything was running smoothly, so that his oversight was unnecessary, Arthur again felt the necessity of enlisting, but met with considerable oppositions from his firm, the Munition Board, Ottawa, and from relatives.  The latter gave way when they realized that it would utterly crush his fine spirit if he were not permitted to do what his conscience dictated was his manifest duty, although he had no military experience or taste.

The munition board, Ottawa, wrote that “while his patriotism was admirable, it was his duty to remain,” and in December 1915, the company wrote “that his services with them were equal to 100 men in the trenches to the Allies”.  But Arthur wrote that “no real man would willingly remain in a position that a flunker might fill”, and he couldn’t do it.

The motto, in Latin, “Where Duty and Glory Lead”, which appears on the artillery crest, at the top of the tablet, seems most appropriate.  For we learn from an immortal poem that, “The paths of glory lead but to the grave”, and it was only his high sense of duty which impelled him to give up a profession he loved for one which he abhorred.

The last evening of his last leave, a year ago, he spent at a London theatre with a Montreal friend, who wrote afterwards that he looked over the gay throng for a time and then said “It will be a very different scene I shall witness tomorrow night.  I can’t say I am keen to go back, but I am more contented doing my duty over there, than enjoying myself here”.

His days were always very full, but he enjoyed every moment of them, whether at work or play.  He certainly had no desire to die, but he was not afraid to do so for his country’s honor, that we should not break faith with the men who had gone forward under the belief that we would fill their depleted ranks, which was far from the case when came the full realization of what war really meant.  He respected the efficiency of the Germans and had no desire to kill them, or anyone else, as he was essentially a man of peace, and was never known to speak ill of anyone. We who enjoyed his lovable personality as fellow students here, can testify we never knew him to do or say a mean thing, but realize he would do anything in the name of right, regardless of friends or circumstances.

He enlisted after thirty days’ notice, on the 30th of September 1916, his work having been taken over by two men, and was in France as Sergeant, March 17th following.  He reverted to the ranks and joined another battery and took part in the epochal battle of Vimy Ridge and all the subsequent fighting up to the time of being wounded.  On July 13, 1917 he was taken from the guns and attached to headquarters, and was soon placed in charge of his battery’s intelligence corps, and as such went into the battle of Passchendaele for twenty-three days.

He was the first member of his battery to be recommended for decoration, but never mentioned the fact, and the details were not received here until two months after his death.  When inquiry about it was made of his O. C. The letter wrote, “He has earned it so many times that I cannot recall the exact circumstances, but they may be obtained from the record office at London, England, or Ottawa.  I had hard work getting him to apply for a commission. His brother has a wide reputation of being one of the smartest junior officers in the C. F. A. And Arthur was quite our best Sergeant, but of too good a quality to remain a sergeant”.

When one of his men later won the medal he wrote expressing his gratification, adding, “I am pleased to say it was for saving life, not for taking it,” which shows his attitude toward war with its awful waste of good men.  In his letters home he never once referred to battle dangers, or discomforts, but was always cheery, though he said before he left home that the war would last till 1919 and made all his preparations with that date in view. As an illustration of his unusual character it might be mentioned that he insisted upon repaying all his college expenses with interest, although every attempt was made to persuade him that the least parents could do was to equip their sons for the battle of life.  He was urged to save his money, buy a home and get married, but he replied he would not marry till he was thirty, sot here would be plenty of time for that.  He was so thoroughly in earnest that nothing could be done other than accept his money, and unknown to him invest it, so he might benefit by it later.

Whether in America or Europe, he never forgot the special days such as Mother’s Day, birthdays, Christmas, etc., and invariably appropriate presents would reach his relatives on those days.

His work at Passchendaele is indicated by the following extract from a letter of one of his signallers, whose bravery won for him the medal of Passchendaele and the bar to it in 1918.  It was written to a Toronto friend:

“We who were his nearest friends, recognize the loss of a true friend, whose worthiness was more genuine than my pen can express.  His self-sacrifice was wonderful.  For ten days of perfect hell, he endured Passchendaele, when the others were sticking it a couple of days only. Whenever the lines were broken by shells it was always Art who voluntarily accomplished the disagreeable job of repairing.”

His worth was recognized by officers and men alike, who often consulted him.  His work on the day the Canadians supported by the Imperials took Passchendaele, is officially recorded as follows. “He established and manned a visual signalling station from 2 a.m. to 3 p.m., and maintained communication between the brigade observation officer and headquarters during that period.  He also obtained valuable information by reading the lamps of others during the same period and sent it back to his brigade headquarters. This was done for the most part under heavy shell fire from the enemy and also under periodic bursts of shrapnel. In order to work his Lucas lamp it was necessary for him to remain quite in the open without any protection to speak of and I consider he showed the utmost gallantry, resource and coolness.”  His brigade commander wrote “He was always cool in tight places”.

When he was recommended for promotion it was necessary for him to come before the brigade commander that his fitness for the position might be passed upon. The commander examines prospective officers and impresses upon them their responsibilities.  He said to Arthur “I know there is no necessity asking you any questions”, and he didn’t, but said he took great pleasure in recommending him. This was in February 1918, but the great German drive prevented his joining the class in England in March.

In April it was decided to promote him to lieutenancy without training. When he learned this he promptly put in a written request to have this arrangement cancelled and when he found this and an interview with his O.C. availed him nothing, he went back to the brigade commander and told him that he dare not take such a grave responsibility with his short training and succeeded in having the arrangement cancelled upon promising to take the course as early as possible.

With the slowing down of the enemy drive in June, he was told to be ready to go to England, July 15th, but this time preparations for the British drive, which began July 18th, held him and he was fatally wounded before Amiens on August 7th following.  It was characteristic of Sergeant Youell, that on his way to Le Treport hospital he arranged for the sending of cable saying “Wounded, progressing nicely”, which was received three days before the official cable erroneously stating that he had received 45 gunshot wounds. Later when transported to Southampton in a most serious condition, he cabled announcing his arrival, “Had pleasant trip across the channel”.  He wrote regularly every week, and had his nurses send cables between times.  In his last letter, the first to be written in pencil, he said, “My wounds have healed perfectly and it is now simply a question of getting the poison out of my system. This will take time, but time is the best healer after all”.  A week later a letter from his mother was in his mail.  This was kept until the last and during its reading his face illumined and his last words were an appreciation of her who had always been his chum and counsellor, and whom he loved above all others.  Then he closed his eyes and slept quietly till the call came to higher service.  A few days later his encoffined body, with its floral tributes from nurses, Red Cross friends and relatives and shrouded by the Union Jack, was placed on a gun carriage to be conveyed to the civilian cemetery at Hollybrook, about three miles distant, and as they proceeded along the less frequented streets, the people met would halt, then men and boys would removed their hats and would remain uncovered until the little cortege had passed out of respect to an unknown martyr, who had paid in full, the price of liberty for us all.  Upon arrival at the plot assigned him, the beautiful commitment service of the Anglican church, of which he had been a consistent member, was read, a volley was fired, the “Last Post” was sounded, and another little bit of England had become forever Canada.

Before sailing from Glasgow his brother went down to Southampton to place a wreath on his grave and was gratified to find that the Red Cross had not only planted flowers there to mark it, but had cut flowers weekly, and maple leaves at Christmas on it, showing how women, who understand what the winning of this war meant to them, appreciated the self sacrifice of those who died for them.

Gratitude is often prompted by the hope of future favors and there are few mean spirits, who, feeling that we will have no more war in their time, begrudge recognition to our martyred heroes.

In announcing his death the Sherbrooke Daily Record said: “Word has been received of the death from wounds of Sergt. Arthur Youell, B.A. Sc., in an English hospital. Sergt. Youell enlisted in the fall of 1916 with a howitzer battery as a gunner and went overseas almost at once.  He was well known in Sherbrooke. He reached France in the Spring of 1917, where he was finally transferred to the headquarters signalling party. During the fighting at Passchendaele a little over a year ago he was given the Military Medal for bravery.  He was recommended for a commission in March, but was prevented by the big drive from going to England for the course.  In the fighting last August he received shell wounds and blood poisoning developed from which he died.

He spent six months at the shops of the Ingersoll-Rand Co., Phillipsburg, N.J., as engineering representative of the Canadian Ingersoll-Rand Co.  Here his duties were to report on any new methods or products.  For this work his exceptional abilities made him especially fitted – keen of intellect, a thoroughly trained mind and quick of observation – he was able to grasp the essentials of anything new, while his command both of language and drawing enabled him to describe these things clearly in his reports. His tact and courtesy enabled him to get information from busy men, not only without making them annoyed, but even winning their warm friendship.  His boundless energy and industry were also much in evidence for after a week of hard work, with a lengthy hand-written report every night he would be off for the weekend in New York, Philadelphia or even Washington.  He enlisted in the war from a stern sense of duty. Officials tried to make him believe that his duty lay rather in a munition shop than in the overseas forces, but honor bade him go.  The best description of Arthur Youell is the word “gentleman” with all that implies of culture, courtesy, a fine consideration of others and a high sense of honor and duty”.

The cenotaph in Port Burwell:

1914 – 1918
In Memory of the Men of Port Burwell and the Township of Bayham Who Died in the Great War
Honour also to those Who Daring to Die, Survived
Killed in Action

John W. Armstrong
Frank Brinn
Philip J. Brierly
James L. Bain
Albert G. Eakins
A. W. Forbes

Robert C. Grant
Mervyn McD. Hopkinson
John B. Kirkby
Thomas H. Light
Lewis A. Lockman
John H. Murphy
Walter E. Marlatt
Claude Orton
Erwin Pearson
Harold Raven
Arthur Robinson
Harry Thompson
Lewis E. West
Bill Jim West
Alex Williams

Greater Love Hath no Man than this

That a Man lay Down his Life for his Friends

[there are 57 names of persons who survived, which will be given in a later volume]

Private John William Armstrong

189819  John Armstrong

John William Armstrong was born on February 10, 1883 in Port Burwell, Bayham Township, the son of John Archibald Armstrong & Sarah Catherine Brandow.  The family is found on the 1901 Bayham census (Div. 1, page 13), where the elder John is a fisherman.  By the 1911 census (Div. 3, page 2) , John & Sarah had moved to Langton in Norfolk County where they were farming.

John & Sarah had a large family, besides their son John, the children were: Effie G. (1875); Mary M. (1877); Elizabeth Ann (1879); Martha Jane (1881); Sarah C. (1885); Alvin Asher (1887); Arthur Edwin (1889); Florence May (1891); Harriet Melissa (1893); James H. (1895); Samuel (1897); George Leonard (1899), and Clara Bell (1901).

John A. Armstrong (Dec. 10, 1856 – Oct. 19, 1936) & Sarah C. Brandow (Jan. 12, 1857 – August 1948) are buried in Trinity Anglican cemetery, Port Burwell.  On the occasion of Sarah’s 90th birthday in 1947, an article in the Aylmer Express states she had 14 children, 44 grandchildren and 150 great grandchildren.

John William Armstrong was residing in Port Bruce in 1907 when he married Florence Mowers in Aylmer on May 22.  She was born and living in Port Bruce, the daughter of William Mowers & Mary A. Wildren.  John & Florence then moved to Port Stanley where they are found on the 1911 census (Div. 1, page 15).  John is working as a fisherman, and had two children at the time:  Harold L. (born July 1908), and Stanley R. (born January 1911).

John enlisted for service on January 16, 1916 in St. Thomas.  He describes himself as a labourer, living in Port Stanley.  He names his wife Florence as his next of kin, and states he has three children.  He joined the 91st Battalion.

John died on October 13, 1918 at the age of 36, while serving with the 58th Battalion of Canadian Infantry (Central Ontario Regiment).  He is buried in Etaples Military cemetery in France.  

Information gathered by the Veterans Affairs of Canada after his death give his widow’s address as 142 Sheridan Ave., Toronto.

John’s father’s obituary appeared in the Aylmer Express, October 22, 1936:

JOHN ARMSTRONG PASSES

The death of Mr. John Armstrong took place on Monday morning, Oct. 19th, aged 80 years.  He had been a life-long resident of Port Burwell and vicinity.  He leaves to mourn his loss, his widow, Mrs. Sarah Armstrong, and four daughters, namely, Sarah, of Windsor; Mary, St. Thomas; and Martha and Hattie, Port Burwell; five sons, Arthur and Alvin, Pontiac, Michigan; James, Samuel and George, of this place. The funeral was held at 10:30 o’clock, on Wednesday, from his late residence, to St. Luke’s cemetery, for interment.  Rev. J. C. Gare had charge of the funeral service.  

John’s mother’s obituary appeared in the Aylmer Express, August 19, 1948:

WELL KNOWN PORT BURWELL WOMAN, MRS. S. ARMSTRONG, HEAD OF SIX

GENERATIONS, IS DEAD

Port Burwell, Aug. 18 – Mrs. Sarah Armstrong, who celebrated her 91st birthday here on June 12 and who numbered among her children and her children’s children more than 200 descendants, died at her home Sunday evening following a lingering illness. She had been unable to take anything but small amounts of liquid nourishment. But although she knew she had not long to live, she was looking forward to seeing her sixth generation granddaughter, Sharon Ann Camilli, Detroit, who was born Aug. 5.  It had been hoped that if Mrs. Armstrong’s health took a turn for the better, a reunion in which six generations of women in the Armstrong family would be assembled could be held at Port Burwell later this month.  Until last spring, Mrs. Armstrong had enjoyed good health and taken an active interest in the life of the village.  Then she suffered a severe attack of pneumonia and had never rallied from it. When her birthday came this year, she was in bed, but nevertheless many members of her family and many old friends came to call on her and extend greetings.  Her family is one of the largest in the province.  Mrs. Armstrong’s husband was the late John Armstrong, who predeceased her in 1936.  Of her 15 children, eight survive. They are Mrs. Sarah Williams and Mrs. James Walker, St. Thomas; Mrs. Hattie Temple, Detroit; Alvin Armstrong and Arthur Armstrong, Pontiac, Mich.; and James, George, and Samuel Armstrong, all of Port Burwell.  To make up six generations in the family with the late Mrs. Armstrong at the head, the group included Mrs. James Walker (daughter), St. Thomas; Mrs. Idabelle Walker Smale (granddaughter), Port Burwell; Mrs. Elsie Hill (great granddaughter), Ecorse, Mich.; Mrs. Joseph Camilli (great great granddaughter), River Rouge, Mich.; and Sharon Ann Camilli (great great great granddaughter), River Rouge, Mich., aged 11 days.  The remains rested at the H. A. Ostrander and Sons funeral home, Port Burwell, and the funeral took place Wednesday afternoon at two o’clock with public service at the Port Burwell Free Methodist Church.  Rev. J. R. Lambert officiated.  Interment was made in the Anglican Church cemetery here.

Lance Corporal Frank Brinn

797132  Frank Brinn

John Franklin Brinn was born at Kingsmill in South Dorchester Township on August 12, 1890, the son of John N. Brinn (1857 – 1938) and his wife Emeline Ostrander (1864 – 1945).  It would appear that they lived only briefly at Kingsmill, as they do not appear on the 1891 South Dorchester Township census. Their eldest daughter Pearl was born in Bayham in 1885, and by 1892 they were again living in Bayham township, where the next child after Frank was born.  The family is found in Bayham census records: 1901 (Div. 2, page 1), and 1911 (Div. 2, page 3).  Other members of the family were: Pearl (1885), Maud (1887), William Andrew (1892), Jennie (Jane) (1895), Skean Ross (1898), Clifton (1903), Rebecca Irene (1904); Beulah (1906 – 1907) & Gordon (1908). There was another infant daughter born in 1897 who lived only two hours.

The death registration of the infant daughter in 1897 gives the family’s residence as lot 26, concession 4, Bayham.  Daughter Beulah’s death registration states their residence as Griffin’s Corners.

Frank enlisted for service on February 26, 1916 in Port Rowan.  He was a farmer and was single.  He belonged to the active militia, the 39th Regiment.  He died on September 27, 1918 at the age of 28, while serving with the 14th Battalion of Canadian Infantry, Quebec Regiment.  He is buried in Sains-Les-Marquion British Cemetery in France.

Frank was wounded in 1917, as reported in the Aylmer Express, May 10, 1917:

Mrs. John Brinn has received word that her son, Private Frank Brinn, was wounded while in the trenches in France and is now in a French hospital. Pte. Brinn enlisted with the 133rd Battalion and was later transferred to the 14th Battery.

The Aylmer Express of October 31, 1918 reported his death, accompanied by a photograph:

Word has been received by Mr and Mrs John Brinn, of Vienna, of their son’s death in action on Sept. 27th.  Corp. Brinn enlisted with the 137th Batt. at Simcoe, was two years in the trenches and twice wounded.  Besides his parents he leaves to mourn his loss, four sisters and four brothers.

A more detailed account of his death appeared in the Tillsonburg Liberal, October 24, 1918:

Mr and Mrs John Brinn of Vienna received the sad news that their son, Corporal Frank Brinn, had been killed in France on Sept. 27th.  He enlisted with the 133rd at Simcoe, and went overseas about two years ago. A year and a half ago he was wounded, and later on he went back to the firing line, and met his death as stated.  He was the eldest son, and besides his parents he leaves to mourn his loss four sisters and four brothers.  Much sympathy is felt for the bereaved family.  He is a nephew of Mr and Mrs Elmer Ostrander of Tillsonburg.

Frank’s name also appears on the cenotaph in Vienna.

His parents are buried in Guysborough cemetery, Bayham township.

John’s obituary appeared in the Aylmer Express,  March 17, 1938:

John Brinn, a life-long resident of the 4th concession of Bayham, passed away in his eighty-first year, after two months’ illness following a stroke. He leaves a wife and four sons, William, Skean, Clifton and Gordon, at home; four daughters, (Pearl) Mrs. Bolcomb, Lakeview; (Maude) Mrs. Hill, St. Thomas; (Jennie) Mrs. Mellon, Glenmeyer; (Rebecca) Mrs. Pearson, Corinth.  One son, Frank, lost his life in the Great War. Also one sister, Mrs. Robert Carson, of Glenmeyer has passed away. Thirty-one grandchildren and five great grandchildren also survive.  The funeral took place from his late residence, Sunday, March 6, at 2:30, then to Guysboro for burial.  Rev. Mr. Hammond officiated at the burial.

Pte. Philip John Brierly

63132

Philip J. Brierly was born on July 10, 1892 in North Kensington, London, England, the son of Mr & Mrs John James Brierly.  He emigrated to Canada from the Dr. Barnardo Home at the age of 9, arriving in Quebec on July 29, 1901.  

Philip’s death was reported in the Aylmer Express, July 12, 1917, in the Lakeview news column:

Philip Brierly, who, when a small boy came from the Barnardo Home to live with James Bennett, and later took up land in the Northwest, enlisted at the outbreak of the war and went overseas with the Princess Pats, and was one of the few to survive when that company was cut to pieces. The sad news came to Mr. Bennett a few days ago by cable saying that Philip had died of wounds on May 20, somewhere in France. He was a great favorite in his adopted home and had many friends here.  He was a member of Lakeview Baptist church.

It is not known when Philip came to live with the Bennett family in the Lakeview area.  He is not found on the 1911 Bayham township census with the Bennett family: James, (born 1861 England, emigrated 1870); his wife Lillias, and daughters Ellen and Octavia Mary.  However, a Phillip Brialy is found on the 1911 Malahide census (Div. 12, page 10), born Aug. 1891 in England, emigrated 1902,  a labourer, living with Ernest & Fanny Brown. Despite the error in spelling of the surname and date of birth, this is probably Philip Brierly.

Philip enlisted for service on November 3, 1914 in Edmonton.  He gives his occupation as farmer (homestead), and was not married.  His next of kin was Fred John Brierly of 47 Lower Boston Road, Hanwell, London, England.  He had previous militia experience with the 101st regiment in Edmonton.

Philip died on May 20, 1917 at the age of 24 while serving with the 13th Battalion of Canadian Infantry, Quebec Regiment.  He is buried in Etaples Military cemetery in France.

Information in the Veterans Affairs of Canada files gathered at the time of his death state he was the son of Mr and Mrs John James Brierly of 50 Osterley Park View Road,  Hanwell, London, England.

Pte.  James Lawrence Bain

105626

James Lawrence Bain was born on December 27, 1895 in Hagersville, the son of James Edmund Bain & Harriet Anna Winkworth.  The elder James was born in Malahide Township in 1862, the son of William & Maria Bain.  He moved to Walsingham Township, Norfolk County where he was a farmer at the time of his marriage on July 15, 1886 to Harriet Anna Winkworth.  Harriet was born in 1867 in Hagersville, the daughter of Richard & Sarah Winkworth.  They were married in Hagersville, where Harriet was living.

Besides James Lawrence, two other children were born to James & Harriet: Elmer Edwin (1890, in Walsingham); and William Cecil (1894 in Hagersville).    Harriet died on July 31, 1897 in her 31st year, and is buried in St. Luke’s Anglican cemetery, Vienna.

James was remarried on March 9, 1898 in Port Burwell to Alma Adell Raymond (dau of Andrew & Hannah).  James was living in Langton, Walsingham Township at the time, while Alma was a resident of Vienna.  Four children were born to James & Alma, all in Walsingham Township: Lloyd Melvin (1899); Mary Adelia (1901); Basil Lyonel (1904); and Maude Irene (1907).  The family lived on the 12th concession of North Walsingham Township, near Langton.  They are found in census records there in 1901 (Div. 5, page 5), and 1911 (Div. 1, page 2).

James & Alma later moved to Aylmer, where he died on September 11, 1936 in his 75th year. He and his wife Alma (1869 – 1956) are buried in St. Luke’s Anglican cemetery, Vienna.

James Lawrence Bain moved to Saskatchewan sometime after 1911 where he was residing at Estlow when he enlisted for service on December 13, 1915 in Regina.  He incorrectly gave his date of birth as Dec. 27, 1893, while his birth registration clearly shows 1895.  He was a farmer and names his next of kin as his father, James of Port Burwell.  He was not married.

James Lawrence Bain died on September 26, 1916 at the age of 20, while serving with the 8th Battalion of Canadian Infantry (Manitoba Regiment).  His name appears on the Vimy Memorial.

James Bain Sr.’s obituary appeared in the Aylmer Express, September 17, 1936:

JAMES BAIN DIED SUDDENLY

Was Resident of Aylmer for Ten Years

Death came suddenly to James E. Bain, on Friday night, September 11th, at his home on South street west.  He had not been in good health for some months, but his death was unexpected.  Mr. Bain was in his 75th year and was born on the first concession of Malahide, his parents being the late Mr and Mrs William Bain. For the past ten years he had resided in Aylmer where he followed his trade as carpenter.  He was a member of the Baptist church and a Conservative.  Left to mourn his passing are his wife, four sons and two daughters: Elmer, Verschoyle; Cecil, Fort William; Lloyd, Timmins; Basil, Port Rowan; Mrs. Clayton McKibbon, Tillsonburg and Mrs. Forest Moore, Aylmer. There are also three sisters and one brother: Mrs. James Marin, Simcoe; Mrs. Bruce Harris, Scotland, and Mrs. Clarence Johnson, Clearwater, and Thomas Bain, Langton.  The funeral was held at his late residence on Tuesday afternoon and the service was conducted by Rev. Janes, of Chatham, assisted by Rev. J. W. Duncan of the Aylmer Baptist church.  Mr. James Barnum sang, “When They Ring the Golden Bells For You and Me”. There were many beautiful floral tributes and many relatives and friends attended from Langton, Port Rowan, Pt. Burwell, Simcoe, Scotland, Ingersoll, Tillsonburg, St. Thomas and Aylmer. The pallbearers were Basil Bain, Forest Moore, Emerson Fishleigh, W. McKibbon, Elmer Bain, and Mr. Becker.  Interment took place in Vienna cemetery.

Lieutenant Albert Graham Eakins

108203   

Albert Graham Eakins was born on August 3, 1887 in Port Burwell, the son of James W. Eakins & Helen Poustie, who were married on October 7, 1885 in Port Burwell.  The family is found on the 1901 census in Bayham Township (Div. 1, page 7), and Albert’s mother Helen (Ellen) is found on the 1911 census in Bayham (Div. 1, page 5), a widow.  No record of James’ death can be found, but Helen is buried in Trinity Anglican Cemetery, Port Burwell. She was born in 1858 and died in 1949.  According to the 1901 census, James was born July 11, 1834.

Other children in the family were: Jessie (1886), Maggie (1889), Millie Beatrice (1890), and Georgina (1898).

Albert moved to Edmonton, where enlisted for service on February 13, 1915.  He lists his next of kin as his mother, Mrs. Helen Eakins of Port Burwell.  He was a student at law and was not married.  He had eight months’ previous militia experience with the 19th A.D.

Albert died on January 1, 1918 at the age of 30 while serving with the 1st Canadian Mounted Rifles, Saskatchewan Regiment.  He is buried in St. Patrick’s Cemetery, Loos-en-Gohelle, France. 

Albert’s name appears on a Memorial Plaque commemorating barristers and students, members of the Alberta Law Society, who died while serving in the First World War.

His death was reported in the Aylmer Express, January 10, 1918:

Tuesday’s papers contained the sad news of the death in action of Lieut. A. G. Eakins, and the loss to this province of a young man who seemed destined to represent it some day in some way.  After graduating brilliantly at Queen’s University, Kingston, he took up the study of law, and was in his third year when, in 1915, his country’s call impelled him to drop his work, and enlist as a private in a western Battalion, with which he served in many hard fought battles.  Last year he was promoted to a Lieutenancy. He had a fondness for the study of politics, and always commanded attention when he discussed them.  He was the only son of his widowed mother, who lives at Port Burwell, and was a nephew of Mr. James Poustie, of that place and of the late Archie Poustie, of Aylmer.  His early life had been spent on a Houghton farm, which gave back little for the labor expended upon it, and an education such as he had meant considerable work and sacrifice, which makes the loss all the sadder.  Our sympathy goes out to his mother, sisters and other relatives.

“He hurried away, young heart of joy, under our Canadian sky; and I watched him go, my courageous boy, and a weary woman was I. For my hair is gray, and his was gold, he’d the best of his life to live: And I loved him so, and I’m growing old and he’s all I had to give.”

Another article reporting Albert’s death was printed in the St. Thomas Times-Journal, January 17, 1918:

PORT BURWELL MAN LOST SON IN FRANCE

Last week Port Burwell lost another gallant son in the great war in the person of Lieut. Albert Aikens, who was killed in action in France, on January 1, 1918. Lieut. Aikens enlisted with a regiment of Mounted Rifles at the beginning of the war as a private and has been in service almost continuously since.  He was a Port Burwell boy, a son of Mrs. Helen Aikens and a nephew of James Poustie and was a popular and respected young man.  Lieut. Aikens was also the first member of Oriental Lodge, No. 131, A.F. & A.M. to pay the supreme sacrifice in the war.

Pte.  Robert Carlton Grant

A / 11065  Robert Grant

Robert was born on March 9, 1891 at Straffordville in Bayham township, the son of Alexander Grant & Maud Damaris Locker, who were married in Bayham on June 16, 1886.  Alexander was born in Preston, Waterloo County on February 14, 1858,  the son of Alexander Grant & Ann Matheson, natives of Sutherlandshire, Scotland. Maud Damaris Locker was born in Bayham township in 1862, the daughter of Robert & Susannah Locker.

Maud died in 1894 and is buried in Burdick cemetery, east of Aylmer.  Also buried there is her husband Alexander, his parents, and infant son Gordon (1885 – 1886).  Alexander died at the Woodstock General Hospital on June 21, 1930.  His residence was lot 6, concession 12, East Zorra Township.

Alexander was remarried on February 20, 1896 in East Zorra Township, Oxford County, to Lillie J. Fraser, of East Zorra.  Alexander was living in Bayham township at the time.  Lillie died in 1925 in Woodstock, and is buried there.

The family is found on the 1901 Bayham census (Div. 4, page 14), but by 1911 had moved to East  Zorra Township, Oxford County, where they are found on the census. 

Other children in the family were: Anna Gertrude (1888); Gordon L. (1890), and Maud Demerise (1894), all born in Bayham township. Gordon’s birth registration states he was born January 13, 1890, and died on April 14, 1890.  The inscription in Burdick cemetery states 1885 – 1886.

Robert enlisted for service on November 2, 1915 in Saskatoon.  He lists his next of kin as his father, Alexander Grant, of Woodstock.  He was a student, and was not married.  He had served two years in the 1st Hussars in Aylmer.  He was a graduate of the University of Saskatchewan.

Robert died on June 2, 1916 at the age of 25, while serving with Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry, Eastern Ontario Regiment.  His name appears on the Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial in Belgium.

Robert’s death was reported in the Aylmer Express, June 22, 1916:

Word was received here on Saturday from Ottawa announcing the sad news that Robert Grant, son of Alex. Grant, of Woodstock, was killed in action in France on Friday.  Private Grant enlisted in Edmonton, and has been at the front for more than a year.  He was a bright young man, and had just obtained his B.A. degree.

A brief mention of Pte. Grant’s death was reported in the St. Thomas Journal, June 20, 1916:

PTE.. ROBB. GRANT IS KILLED IN ACTION

Friends Hear That Former Maple Grove Man Has Made the Supreme Sacrifice

The many friends of the late Pte. Robb Grant, formerly a citizen of this neighborhood, will learn with regret of his death in France.

Robert’s name appears on his parents’ monument in Burdick cemetery with the following inscription: 

“Robert C. Grant, B.A., killed in action at Ypres June 2, 1916, aged 25 years”

Mrs. Grant’s obituary appeared in the Aylmer Express, May 24, 1894:

MRS. ALEX. GRANT

The death of Mrs. Grant, which occurred at her home two miles east of Richmond on Saturday last, was a peculiarly sad one, as she was young and in the prime of life, being only 32 years old. She leaves three little children, one of them only a few days old.  As a neighbor and friend Mrs. Grant enjoyed the respect and esteem of all, and it is safe to say there was no finer lady in Bayham.  The funeral took place on Tuesday, and was largely attended. Mr. Grant has the sympathy of all in his deep affliction.

Alexander Grant’s obituary appeared in the Aylmer Express, June 26, 1930:

ALEX. GRANT DIED IN WOODSTOCK

Former Bayham Man Buried in Burdick Cemetery

The remains of the late Alexander Grant, of Woodstock, were laid to rest in the Burdick cemetery, east of Aylmer, on Monday, June 23rd, and was largely attended by relatives from Woodstock, Cayuga, St. Thomas, Pt. Burwell and Aylmer. A service was held at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Karn, Woodstock, and Rev. Waldemar Williams of Aylmer, officiated at the grave. The pallbearers were six nephews, Lloyd Grant, Grant Mitchell, Harry Grant, Will Harp, John Pound and Murray Summers.  The late Mr. Grant was born in Preston, Ont., 72 years ago. When but two years old he came with his parents to Bayham township where he lived for a number of years, later purchasing a farm near Woodstock. For nearly a year he has been ill and in the hospital. He was twice married, both wives having predeceased him. Surviving are two daughters: Mrs. Arthur Harn [sic] and Miss Maude Grant, both of Woodstock, one son, Robert was killed overseas, and another son, Gordon, died in infancy.  He is also survived by one brother, Wm. Grant, of Straffordville, and three sisters: Mrs. Rolph Chambers and Mrs. Geo. Summers, of Aylmer; and Mrs. Walter Mitchell, of Straffordville.

Sergeant Mervyn MacDonald Hopkinson

406729

Mervyn MacDonald Hopkinson was born on February 13, 1893 at Ventry, Proton Township, Grey County, the son of James Clarke Hopkinson & Euphemia Elizabeth MacDonald.  James was born about 1866, the son of John & Hannah; Euphemia was also born about 1866, the daughter of William & Phoebe Elizabeth MacDonald.  Both were living in Hamilton at the time of their marriage on November 10, 1885 in Hamilton.  James’ occupation was a sawmiller.  It appears they moved to Proton Township in Grey County shortly after their marriage, as four children were born to them while living there: William John (1886); Della Laoma (1887); Keith Clark (1889); and Ethel Irene (1891).  They then returned to Wentworth County, where another son, James Vincent, was born in Waterdown in 1898 (died age of 4 months). Another son born in 1901, was also named James Vincent, but he died the same year at the age of 10 months.

James and his family then moved to Toronto where they are found on the 1901 census.  However, Mervyn is found living with an uncle & aunt, Theo & Sarah Nicholson, on the 1901 Hamilton census (Ward 5, Div. 2, page 9), at the age of 8.  On the 1911 census, Mervyn is found in Freelton, Flamborough West, Wentworth County (Div. 6, page 2), living with Daniel & Bertha Chambers, a farmer, where he is employed as hired help.  His parents cannot be located on the 1911 census.

James Hopkinson moved to Bayham Township sometime after 1901, and remained there likely until 1917.  A sale notice appears in the Aylmer Express of March 8, 1917 for James Hopkinson, lot 5, concession 3, Bayham Township.  Information collected by the Veterans Affairs of Canada following Mervyn’s death list him as a son of James C. Hopkinson of 93 Leslie Street, Toronto, and the late Euphemia MacDonald Hopkinson.

James, Euphemia, and several members of their family are buried in Waterdown Municipal Union Cemetery, Waterdown, Ontario.

Mervyn enlisted for service on April 19, 1915 in Hamilton.  He lists his next of kin as James C. Hopkinson, of Port Burwell, his father.  Mervyn’s occupation was electrical lineman.  

Mervyn died on September 22, 1916 at the age of 23 while serving with the 1st Battalion of Canadian Infantry, Western Ontario Regiment.  His name appears on the Vimy Memorial in France.  A brief notice of his death appeared in the Toronto Star, October 13, 1916:

Sergt. M. M. Hopkinson, killed in action, joined at Toronto, third contingent unit at the Niagara Camp.  He had been in the trenches about a year. His relatives are in Port Burwell, Ont.

Mervyn’s name is included in a memorial service held for men from Bayham township, found in the Aylmer Express, December 14, 1916 [found printed following the names on the Vienna cenotaph]

Pte.  John Brower Kirkby

237760

John Brower Kirkby was born on December 25, 1895 in Teeswater, Bruce County, the son of Reuben Frederick Kirkby & Cora Mary Brown.  Reuben was employed as a brakeman on the railroad, and had previously lived in Toronto Junction, at 4 Hoskin Avenue (1890), and 70 Queen’s Road (1892).  They lived in Teeswater from in the mid 1890’s, until returning to Toronto, where from at least 1902 to 1907 they were living at 148 Mulock Street, Toronto Junction.  Reuben was employed with the Canadian Pacific Railway, over the years as a fireman, brakeman and engineer.

The family cannot be found on the 1901 census, but by 1911, they had returned to Bruce County where they were living in Walkerton (Div. 4, page 11).  By 1916, they had again moved to Toronto, where John’s address is given as 396 Quebec Street.  Information gathered by the Veterans Affairs of Canada after John’s death give his parents’ address as Port Burwell.  It is possible they moved there following John’s enlistment.

Other members of the family were: William George (1890); Frederick Valentine (1892); Reuben Earl (1897); Vernon Garfield (1902); and Cora M. Rodonnah (1907).

John enlisted for service on May 6, 1916 in Toronto, while living at 396 Quebec Street.  He lists his next of kin as his mother, Cora Kirkby, at the same address.  He was a fireman (likely on the railroad), and was not married.  He was attached to the 204th Battalion.

John died on September 27, 1918 at the age of 22, while serving with the 15th Battalion of Canadian Infantry, Central Ontario Regiment.  He is buried in Sains-Les-Marquion British Cemetery, France.  His name appears on a World War 1 Roll of Honour of Service of Victoria-Royce Presbyterian Church, 190 Medland Street, Toronto.

John’s mother Cora died in Port Burwell on April 17, 1928, at the age of 58.  She was born in the United States on November 1, 1869, the daughter of William Brown & Mary Brower.  She is buried in Toronto.  Reuben survived her, but his date of death is unknown.

Cora’s obituary appeared in the Aylmer Express, April 12, 1928 in the Port Burwell news:

The death occurred suddenly at 2 a.m. Saturday of Mrs. Cora Mary Kirkby, wife of R. F. Kirkby at her home on Strachan St., after a lingering illness.  Mrs. Kirkby, who was in her 59th year, had resided here for the past 11 years, coming here from Toronto, and had made many friends. Surviving besides her husband are six children, five sons and a daughter, Cora, at home. Also three sisters and one brother, residing in North Carolina, Virginia, and Georgia, respectively.  A short service was held on Monday at 4 p.m., Rev. Deihl having charge, the remains being taken on the Tuesday morning train to Toronto for interment.  Much sympathy is felt for the bereaved family, who are so highly respected by all.

John’s father Reuben continued to live in Port Burwell, where he was still residing when he retired after 45 years with the C.P.R. in 1931. (St. Thomas Times-Journal, June 30, 1931).

Some members of the family remained in the Port Burwell area as late as 1944, when the Aylmer Express of August 17, 1944 records the sale of Cora Kirkby of Port Burwell. This is undoubtedly John’s sister, born in 1907.  There is also a death reported in the Aylmer Express, September 27, 1945 of Frederick Kirkby of Toronto, son of the late R. F., of Sparta.  Listed among Frederick’s survivors are three brothers: Earl, of Toronto; Verne, of Detroit; Frank, Flint, Michigan; and one sister, Cora M. R. Kirkby, of Toronto.

Corporal Lewis Austin Lockman

21629

Lewis Austin Lockman was born on July 25, 1883 in Houghton Township, Norfolk County, the son of George Lockman & Jemima Kier, who were married on November 12, 1861 in Ancaster Township, Wentworth County.  George was born in Ancaster Township on October 16, 1835, the son of Erastus Lockman & Rachel Drake.  He was living in South Dumfries Township at the time of his marriage.  Jemima Kier was born February 3, 1843 in Ancaster Township, the daughter of Colin Kier (a native of Scotland), and Phoebe Carter (a native of the United States).  She was living in Brantford at the time of marriage.

The family is found in Houghton Township, Norfolk County on both the 1901 census (Div. 1, page 4), and 1911 (Div. 1, page 4).  Jemima is a widow on the 1911 census, but record of George’s death cannot be located.  Jemima died on November 8, 1912 at lot 15, concession 1, North Talbot Road in Middleton Township, Norfolk County. Two infant children are buried in Hemlock Cemetery, Houghton cemetery, but George & Jemima’s burial place is unknown.

Lewis is found with his parents on the 1901 census, and in 1911 with his widowed mother and sister Clara and her husband William M. Townsend.

Other children of George & Jemima were: Emeline (1873) and Clara Edith (1875).  Emeline was married to Isaac E. Bartlett on August 15, 1894.

Lewis enlisted for service on September 23, 1914 in Valcartier.  He lists his next of kin as his sister, Emma Bartlett, of Courtland, Ontario. He was a farmer and was not married.  He had served fourteen years in the 39th Norfolk Rifles.

Lewis died on May 24, 1915 at the age of 32, while serving with the 5th Battalion of Canadian Infantry, Saskatchewan Regiment.  His name appears on the Vimy Memorial in France.

Pte.  John Herbert Murphy

189927  John Murphy

John Herbert Murphy was born on October 16, 1897 at Dunboyne in Malahide Township, the son of Charles Edward Murphy & Thirza Ann Light, who were married on November 25, 1889 at Walsh in Charlotteville Township, Norfolk County.  Edward Murphy was born on April 23, 1856 in Charlotteville, the son of John Murphy & Elizabeth Kniffen, and was living in Malahide at the time of his marriage. Thirza Ann Light was born on Feb. 22, 1864 in Bayham the daughter of Lazarus Light & Rhoda Abbey.  She was living in Bayham at the time of marriage.

Edward was previously married to Sarah Jane Kilmer, and had three children: Ethel Roxena (born 1881 in Charlotteville); Margaret Jane (born 1883 in Malahide), and Josephine (born 1885 in Malahide; died Jan. 2, 1887). Sarah Jane died on February 5, 1887 at the age of 28, and is buried with daughter Josephine in Luton cemetery.

Edward & Ann lived in Malahide near Dunboyne during the 1890’s, where they are found on the 1891 census (Div. 2, page 47).  He was a farm labourer, and a tenant on lot 7, concession 3 from 1892 to 1897.  property

The family in Bayham census records: 1901 (Div. 2, page 8); and 1911 (Div. 2, page 3).  Other members of the family were: Elsie Irena (1891); Charles E. (1893); Mary Elizabeth (1895), all born in Malahide; and a male child (unnamed) born in 1900 at lot 10, concession 4, Bayham Township.

John Murphy enlisted for service on January 28, 1916 in St. Thomas.  He gives his address as Vienna, and names his mother as next of kin, also of Vienna.  He was a farmer and was not married.

John died on November 18, 1916 at the age of 19, while serving with “C” Company, 38th Battalion of Canadian Infantry, Eastern Ontario Regiment.  His name appears on the Vimy Memorial in France.

His death was reported in the St. Thomas Journal, December 6, 1916:

Mr and Mrs Edward Murphy, Vienna, have been notified that their son, Pte. John H. Murphy, was killed in action in France, November 18.  Pte. Murphy went overseas with the 91st Battalion and was transferred tot he 38th Battalion, with which unit he was doing his bit when he met his death.

John’s parents continued to live in Bayham, where his mother died on January 22, 1930.  His father had a sale shortly after (lot 14, concession 4), and moved to South Dorchester Township, where he lived 15 months prior to his death on May 25, 1931, at lot 4, concession 8.  

His father’s obituary appeared in the St. Thomas Times-Journal, May 27, 1931:

CHARLES E. MURPHY DEAD; IN 76TH YEAR

A Former Resident of Charlotteville County Passes

Springfield, May 26 – The death occurred Monday of Charles Edward Murphy, a former resident of Charlotteville township, Norfolk County, at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Samuel Cole, concession 8, South Dorchester. Deceased, who was in his 76th year, had lived practically all his life in Charlotteville coming to live with his daughter about 15 months ago, owing to ill health.  He was a native of the township.  Deceased was twice married and leaves two daughters, Mrs. S. Cole and Mrs. Lewis Johnson, both of South Dorchester.  His second wife was Miss Annie Light, who died two years ago. One son, Charles of Tillsonburg also survives.  In addition, two brothers and one sister survive.  They are Lewis, of R.R. 8 London; Harry of Simcoe, and Mrs. Margaret Aspden, of Charlotteville.

Edward & Ann are buried in Light Cemetery, Bayham Township.

Pte. Walter Earl Marlatt 

189920  Walter Marlatt

Walter Earl Marlatt was born on August 31, 1896 in Bayham Township, the son of Tillman Marlatt & Theodosiah Maria Tribe.  Record of their marriage cannot be found, but Tillman Marlatt was born on February 2, 1872 in Bayham Township, the son of Henry Marlatt & Elizabeth Bentley.  Maria Tribe was born March 21, 1873 in Bayham, the daughter of Reuben Tribe & Rachel Alice Berger.

The family is found on the 1901 Bayham census (Div. 2, page 8).  Walter’s mother Maria died on May 4, 1902 from pneumonia at the age of 26, and is buried in Smuck cemetery in Bayham.

Tillman was remarried on August 5, 1903 to Plezzie Johnson, of Malahide, the daughter of Albert Johnson & Jane Hurlbert.  They are found on the 1911 Bayham census (Div. 3, page 5).

Other children of Tillman and Maria were: Ethel Pearl (1894); Hattie Irene (1898), Gladys Alta (1899), Willard Gordon (1901) and Elgin J. (1901).  Children of Tillman & Plezzie were: Henry (1904); Helen Ray (1905); William George (1907); Verne (1909); Viola Marguerite (1911); Marjorie Aleda (1913); Sylvia (1916); Hazel (1920), and Albert (1921).

Walter Earl Marlatt enlisted for service on January 26, 1916 in St. Thomas.  He was living at Vienna at the time and was a farmer.  He was not married, and lists his father, also of Vienna,  as his next of kin.  He had served one year in the 39th Norfolk Regiment.

Walter died on November 3, 1916 at the age of 19 while serving with the 38th Battalion of Canadian Infantry, Eastern Ontario Regiment.  He is buried in Albert Communal Cemetery Extension, Somme, France.

Walter’s father lived a long life, passing away on March 11, 1961 in a Hamilton hospital.  He and his second wife Plezzie (1884 – 1926), are buried in St. Luke’s cemetery, Vienna.

Notice of Walter’s death was reported in the St. Thomas Journal, November 16, 1916:

WALTER MARLATT’S DEATH

One more of the 91st Battalion has been added to the list who have given their lives for their country in the person of Walter Marlatt, of Vienna, who died at a hospital in France of wounds received in one of the Somme fights.  

Pte. Erwin Pearson

675163  Erwin Pearson

Erwin Pearson was born on May 31, 1890 in South Dorchester Township, the son of Christopher Pearson & Nancy Jane Williams, who were married on April 11, 1882 in Aylmer. Christopher was born Aug. 14, 1858 in Bayham, but residing in Dereham Township, Oxford County, the son of Thomas Pearson & Cerinda Dennis.  Nancy Jane Williams was born January 12, 1867  in South Dorchester, the daughter of Gilbert Williams & Margaret Neff.  

Christopher died on December 12, 1917 at concession 11, Dereham Township.  Nancy died on June 12, 1922, also in Dereham. They are buried in Richmond cemetery.

The family is found on the 1901 census in Bayham Township (Div. 4, page 1), and Erwin’s parents and siblings are also found there in 1911 (Div. 6, page 10).

Other members of the family were: Randolph (1884); Ellis (1886); Carlton (1894), and Flossie May (1896).

Erwin was married at the age of 19 to Maggie Williams on October 8, 1908 in Straffordville.  Maggie was born about 1891, the daughter of Peter Williams & Mary Nichol.  

Erwin was a farmer in the Brownsville area, but he and Maggie cannot be located on the 1911 census.

Erwin enlisted for service on January 12, 1916 in Tillsonburg.  He gives his date of birth as May 31, 1891, but his birth registration clearly shows 1890.  He lists his residence as Brownsville, and his next of kin as his wife, Mrs. Maggie Pearson.  He gives his occupation as engineer.

Erwin died on May 29, 1917, just two days before his 27th birthday.  He was serving with the 2nd Battalion of Canadian Infantry, Eastern Ontario Regiment.  He is buried in La Clytte Military Cemetery, Belgium.

Following Erwin’s death, his widow Maggie was remarried on July 5, 1919 in Port Burwell to Victor Milmine, of Tillsonburg.

Erwin’s death was reported in the St. Thomas Journal, June 13, 1917:

PTE. IRWIN PEARSON KILLED IN ACTION

Former Brownsville Man Dies in France – Leaves Wife and Four Children

Brownsville, June 13 – An official telegram stating that his son, Pte. Irwin Pearson, formerly of C Company, 168th Battalion, had been killed at the front on May 29th last was received yesterday afternoon by Christopher Pearson, 11th concession, Bayham.  Pte. Pearson enlisted with the 168th (Oxfords) in the Tillsonburg Company, and went overseas with them last summer.  He was born and lived for several years near Corinth.  He was a married man and leaves a wife and four children, who are at present residing in Tillsonburg.  Previous to his enlistment he lived in Brownsville, and had been for a considerable time employed in the Brownsville Milk Powder factory. He moved to Tillsonburg shortly after his enlistment. The dead hero was about 30 years of age. He was well known through the district and he had many friends, and was well liked and respected.

A letter from one of Erwin’s comrades was printed in the Aylmer Express, August 16, 1917:

PAID SUPREME SACRIFICE

Mr. C. N. Pearson, of Brownsville, whose son, Erwin, was reported killed in a battle a few days ago, has received the following letter written by his chum describing the sad event

Somewhere in France, June 2, 1917

Dear Mr. Pearson – It is with a heavy sorrowing heart that I write you concerning the death of your son Erwin, of which you have been advised before this.  It was his with while well and strong that if anything happened I should write to you and his wife.  He and I were the only two of C. Co. of the old 168th here, and we have been chums since our arrival in England and remained so to the end.  We spent our leave in Scotland together.  Yourself and Mrs. Pearson, and his wife and family have my deepest sympathy in your hour of trouble, and may the good Saviour above give you all the health and strength to bear your heavy loss and deep sorrow, and may we all meet in the end at the pearly gates above.

Erwin was well liked by all in the camp, and they all miss him, as well as myself.  He was wounded on the night of May 29th, between 11 and 12 o’clock, and lived only a few minutes after being struck.  He was immediately rushed to the nearest dressing station, but passed away before reaching there. He was struck in the side by a piece of shrapnel from a German shell.  At the time between acting as escort on one of our ration wagons, and they were on the way back to our billets, when the poor fellow was caught. He was buried on the afternoon of May 30th, and was given a military funeral, with a service at the grave.  It was a military grave, and a couple of hundred yards distant from the village church.  The grave is marked and his name and number are recorded there.

It is well looked after at all times, I myself, just came from the trenches as they were leaving and went in and planted a spray of flowers on my dear comrade’s grave. I will often visit the spot as long as I am here.  His personal belongings were returned to his wife and I am sure it was all sent. The mail will also be returned. I wish you would take this letter and go and see Erwin’s wife instead of me writing to her too.  I think it would be the better plan. You will kindly extend her and the family my deepest sympathy. Would like to know if you receive this letter, you have the address except my number, which is 675884.  Hoping this finds you all in the best of health, I remain, your sincere friend,
Pte. A. S. Reavely

The same letter was printed in the St. Thomas Journal, July 5, 1917.

Pte. Harold Raven

491264  Harold Raven

Harold Cardinal Raven was born on August 10, 1896 in Colchester, Essex, England, the son of William Raven & Emeline Eaton, who were married in 1886 in Colchester.

The family is found on the 1901 England census at 3 Artillery Place, Colchester, Essex.  William Raven was employed as a carman, while Emeline was a tailoress.  Other members of the family were: Ethel Grace (1890); Sidney Raymond (1892); and Gertrude Florence (1895).

It cannot be determined if the family emigrated to Canada at the same time, or if some of the children came over first.  Only Sidney and Gertrude can be found on the 1911 census of Canada.  Sidney Raven married Pearl Morse on Dec. 21, 1910 in Corinth and is found on the 1911 census in Bayham Township (Div. 4, page 10).  Gertrude was employed as a domestic in Malahide on the 1911 census, stating that she emigrated in 1910.  Edith Grace was also in Bayham around this time, when she married William Forrest on September 7, 1911 in Aylmer.  Gertrude married June Wate Honsinger in Corinth on May 1, 1913.

According to an article in the Aylmer Sun, reporting Harold’s death, he emigrated to Canada in 1912, and his parents were living in Richmond at the time of this death.

Harold enlisted for service on August 28, 1915 in St. Thomas.  He names his next of kin as his mother “Liney” Raven, of Bayham.  He was a farmer and was not married.

Harold died on September 8, 1916 at the age of 20, while serving with the 7th Battalion of Canadian Infantry, British Columbia Regiment.  He is buried in Courcelette British Cemetery, Somme, France.

Notice of his death appeared in the Aylmer Sun, October 26, 1916, accompanied by a photo:

HONOR ROLL

KILLED IN ACTION

Pte. Harold Raven, son of Mr and Mrs Wm. Raven, of Richmond, enlisted with the 33rd Batt., and made the supreme sacrifice on Sept. 8.  Deceased was born in Colchester, England, nineteen years ago and came to Canada in 1912.  He was only in France a short time when he met his fate.  Word was received on Monday of the wounding of his brother William of the 91st Batt.  Mr and Mrs Raven have the sympathy of their many friends in their hour of trouble.  Both young men are well known and respected in the neighborhood to which the belong.

Although a brother William does not appear with the family on the 1901 England census, record of his service was found.  His full name was William Charles Raven, born 1899.  Their other brother, Sidney Raymond Raven, also served in the Great War.

It is not known how long Harold Raven’s parents remained in Bayham Township, but a death record was found for his mother Emeline on November 12, 1928 in Niagara Falls.  She was living at 323 Ellis Street, and according to the record, had been living at that address for 15 years, and had been in Canada for 16 years.  This points to a year of immigration of 1912; however she and her husband did not move to Niagara Falls the following year, as they were still in Bayham when Harold was killed in 1916.  The record states that Emeline was buried in Fairview Cemetery, and was survived by her husband William. She was born on December 8, 1866 in Colchester, England.

Harold’s name also appears on a memorial monument to the fallen in Richmond Cemetery.  His sister Gertrude Honsinger (1895 – 1974) and her husband June are buried there. Sidney’s wife Pearl Morse (1891 – 1921) is also buried there with her parents.

Pte. Edward Arthur Robinson

189980  Edward Robinson and Family

Edward Arthur Robinson was born on May 6, 1892 in Cayuga, Haldimand County, the son of William Henry Robinson & Lillie Young, who were married on October 2, 1887 in the village of York, Seneca Township, Haldimand County.  William was born in England about 1864, the son of Frederick & Matilda Robinson, and emigrated to Canada about 1876.  He was living in Seneca Township at the time of his marriage.  Lillie Young was born about 1869 in Glanford, Ontario, the daughter of William & Fanny Young. She was residing in Glanford at the time of her marriage.

The family is found on the 1901 census in Seneca Township, Haldimand County (Div. 3, page 4).  Other members of the family were: Effie A. (1888); William (1890), Allan (1898), and Cecil (1901).

Arthur moved to Port Burwell sometime before 1911, and was employed as a watchman.  At the age of 19 he was married to Lulu Beatrice Haggblom, on May 24, 1911 in Port Burwell.   Lulu was born in Port Burwell on March 1, 1896, the daughter of Peter Haggblom and Huldah Titus.

Arthur & Lulu are found on the 1911 census in Bayham Township (Div. 1, page 11).  They had one daughter, Jean, born about 1914.

Edward Arthur Robinson enlisted for service on February 9, 1916 in St. Thomas, while living in Port Burwell.  He was a farmer, and lists his next of kin as his wife, Lulu Beatrice Robinson.

Information gathered by the Elgin Military Museum states that Pte. Robinson served with the 91st Battalion, and later with the 58th Battalion in France.  He fought in the battles of Vimy, Somme, Hill 70, Amiens and Arras.  He was wounded and missing in Arras on August 27, 1918, and presumed dead.

Arthur died on August 27, 1918 while serving with the 58th Battalion of Canadian Infantry, Central Ontario Regiment.  His name appears on the Vimy Memorial in France.

The Veterans Affairs of Canada website includes a family photograph of Arthur in uniform with his wife and daughter.  However, it has been incorrectly placed in the file of an Arthur William Robinson (#426873) who died on October 8, 1916.

The following report appeared in the St. Thomas Times-Journal, October 10, 1918:

PTE. A. ROBINSON, OF 91ST, IS MISSING

Port Burwell Man is Reported Wounded; Wife Receives Official Word

Word has been received by his wife that Pte. Arthur Robinson, formerly of this village, has been wounded and missing while on active service in France.  Pte. Robinson left Canada attached to the 91st Battalion over two years ago.

Arthur’s widow Lulu died at St. Joseph’s Hospital in London on May 21, 1927 at the age of 31.  She had been a patient at the hospital only one day, and is buried in Mount Pleasant Cemetery, London. Her obituary appeared in the Aylmer Express, May 26, 1927:

Mrs. Norman Jackson and Mrs. M. Brown received word Friday of the serious illness of their sister, Mrs. Lulu Robinson at her home in London.  Mrs. Jackson and Mrs. Brown left for London Friday evening. Mrs. Robinson passed away early Saturday morning and was buried in London.  Deceased is the widow of the late Private Arthur Robinson, of the 91st Battalion, who was among those reported missing.

Their daughter Jean continued to live in Port Burwell, and was married on December 18, 1937 in Port Burwell to Arthur Scanlan. Their marriage was reported in the Aylmer Express, December 23, 1937:

SCANLAN – ROBINSON

Port Burwell, Dec. 22 – A marriage was solemnized at the Anglican church rectory, on Saturday, December 18, 1937, at 1 p.m., when Jean Robinson and Arthur Scanlan, both of Port Burwell, were joined in the holy bonds of matrimony by the rector, Rev. Canon James. Witnesses were Mr and Mrs Harold Hoshal, the latter a cousin of the bride. After the ceremony the bride and groom left for Buffalo on their honeymoon trip by motor, amid a shower of rice and good wishes.  On their return, they will take up residence in Port Burwell.

An article about Jean remembering her father’s service was published in the St. Thomas Times-Journal, November 10, 1984, accompanied by her photo and the following caption: “Looks over treasures – Jean Scanlan of Port Burwell looks over the postcards and other treasures sent home by her father while fighting in the First World War”

JEAN SCANLAN NEVER KNEW HER FATHER, 

BUT SHE WILL THINK OF HIM ON SUNDAY

by Bob Meharg, T-J Staff Reported

PORT BURWELL – When Jean Scanlan lays the Silver Cross wreath at the village cenotaph tomorrow, she will be thinking of the father she never knew.  On June 25, 1916, Edward Arthur Robinson waited with the rest of the St. Thomas 91st Battalion before leaving for battle in the muddy trenches of France. The war was two years old and two armies of millions of men were stalemated in a long bloody line that ran from Switzerland to the North Sea.  Waiting with the 25 year-old farmer were his wife of four years and this two year old daughter, Lillian Jean.  Before he left, his wife pressed a small copy of the New Testament in his hands.  A slip of paper was between the thin pages, holding a lock of his little girl’s russet hair.

The method of fighting in France had become as unchanging as the front. For both sides, an advance could only succeed by concentrating as many men and as much arms on one section of the line as could be spared. An attack began with an artillery barrage which sometimes lasted for days. Then infantrymen climbed out of their trenches and pushed on, sometimes for miles.  They advanced until stopped by the staccato of machine guns, the deadliest weapon of the war.

There was no effective way to assault machine guns. The British developed tanks only in the latter stages of the conflict. When soldiers heard them, they sought cover or fell dead or wounded.  It was a costly way to fight, but generals and politicians on both sides demanded victories.

Edward Arthur Robinson was wounded in August of 1918.  Wounded soldiers sometimes had to be carried long distances under fire to reach medical aid.  One of the stretcher bearers carrying him stepped on a landmine.  There was nothing left to send home.  Nothing left, that is, until a British soldier crossing the battlefield found a small copy of the New Testament in the mud with a tiny lock of hair inside. Scrawled on the inside cover was Mr. Robinson’s request to return the book to his wife if anything should happen to him. 

Jean Scanlan’s hair has turned to snow now, but as she pulled the slip of paper from the book, she said she doesn’t remember very much about her father.  She treasures the box of post cards and photos he sent from overseas and she also treasures the small Silver Cross presented to her mother after he father’s death.  Because of her father, she has laid the Silver Cross wreath at the village cenotaph for several years. “I’m honored to do it” she said, “for my father and for the other ones who have gone since then”.

Pte.  Arthur West

797131  Arthur West

 

Pte. William James West

797116  William West

 

Pte. Lewis Edgar West

797113  Lewis West

Arthur, William & Lewis were sons of Abraham (Abram) West & Emeline Swarts, of Kinglake, Houghton Township, Norfolk County.  The family did live in Bayham for a few years before moving just over the county line into Houghton.  The names of the three West brothers appear on the Port Burwell cenotaph, as well as on the Fairground Memorial Cairn in Houghton Township.

Abram West was born August 7, 1858 in Houghton Township, the son of Richard & Lizaney West.  He was a farmer and living in Houghton when he married Emeline Swarts in Houghton on December 28, 1882. She was born June 28, 1862 in Glandford, Ontario, the daughter of Jacob Swarts and Luanna Smith.

The family is found on the 1901 census in Houghton (Div. 1, page 5-6), and also in 1911 (Div. 1, page 7).  Other members of the family were: Adaline (born 1884 in Dereham Township, Oxford County); Cora Alberta (born 1887 in Dereham Township); Rosetta (born 1891 in Bayham); Stanley Alfred (born 1900 in Houghton); Myrtle Mildred (born 1905 in Houghton), and John (born 1908 in Houghton).

Abram & Emeline West are buried in Kinglake Cemetery, Houghton Township.  She died on December 27, 1927 at the age of 65 years.  She was survived by her husband.

Arthur West was born on September 16, 1889 in Bayham Township, according to his birth registration.  On his attestation paper, he gives his date of birth as September 15, 1888 in Dereham Township, Oxford County.  He enlisted for service on February 26, 1916 at Port Rowan.  He was living in Fairground at the time.  He names his next of kin as his father Abram, of R.R. #1 Kinglake. He was a farmer and was not married.  He belonged to the 39th Regiment of militia.

Arthur died on April 9, 1917 at the age of 28, while serving with the 14th Battalion of Canadian Infantry, Quebec Regiment.  He is buried in Nine Elms Military Cemetery in France.

Lewis Edgar West was born on September 12, 1895 in Houghton Township.  He enlisted for service on February 12, 1916 in Simcoe.  He was living at Kinglake, and names his next of kin as his mother, Emeline, of Kinglake.  He was a farmer and was not married.  He belonged to the 39th Regiment of militia.

Lewis died on September 7, 1917 at the age of 23, while serving with the 14th Battalion of Canadian Infantry, Quebec Regiment.  He is buried in Lapugnoy Military Cemetery in France.

William James West was born on March 22, 1897 in Houghton Township.  He enlisted for service on February 17, 1916 in Simcoe. He was living at Kinglake and names his father, Abram, as his next of kin.  He was a farmer and was not married.  He also belonged to the 39th Regiment of militia.

William died on the same day as his brother Arthur, April 9, 1917, at the age of 19, while serving with the 14th Battalion of Canadian Infantry, Quebec Regiment.  He is buried in the same cemetery as his brother, Nine Elms Military Cemetery in France.

Notice of Arthur & William’s death was briefly reported in the Aylmer Express, May 3, 1917:

Mr and Mrs Abe West, of Houghton, received word last week that their two sons, Arthur and William, have paid the supreme sacrifice at the front, both apparently in the same action.

Another brief notice appeared in the Tillsonburg Observer, May 3, 1917:

Mr and Mrs Abe West, of Houghton, received word last week that two of their sons, Arthur and William, were killed in action. The young men were in the 133rd Battalion, and another son, Louis, was also a member of that battalion.

Pte. Alex Williams

675921

The name of Alex Williams appears on the cenotaph in Port Burwell, but he cannot be positively identified.  However, after searching through records, it has been concluded that the man in question is Pte. Alexander Gair Williams (service number 675921).  Although the records of the Veterans Affairs of Canada show four men by the name of Alex or Alexander Williams, the above man is the only one with a  connection to Elgin County.

Alexander Gair Williams was born on October 4, 1893 in Dundee, Scotland, the son of William S. Williams & Mary Isabella Archibald.  It is believed he emigrated to Canada after the 1911 census, as he cannot be located in that record in Ontario. 

Alexander was married to Betsy Blyth Pitkathly (or Pitkeathly) in Aylmer on April 24, 1916.  She was also born in Scotland, the daughter of John & Margaret Pitkathly.  Both she and Alexander were residing in South Dorchester Township at the time of marriage. The marriage was witnessed by W. Williams of Tillsonburg, and Mrs. Sidney Rainford, of Corinth.  An account of their marriage was printed in the Aylmer Express, April 27, 1916:

A quiet wedding took place at the Rectory on Easter Monday, when Betsy Blythe Pitkeatley was married to Alexander Gair Williams, both of South Dorchester. The bride and groom were attended by Mr and Mrs Sidney Rainford, of Corinth, and W. Williams, of Tillsonburg, the brother of the bridegroom.

Alexander enlisted for service on April 25, 1916 (the day after his marriage) in Tillsonburg.  He was a farmer, and names his wife as his next of kin.  He gives he and wife’s address as Harrietsville.

It is possible that Alexander had lived in Bayham prior to his marriage, and that is why his name appears on the Port Burwell cenotaph.

Alexander died on May 4, 1917 while serving with the 2nd Battalion of Canadian Infantry, Eastern Ontario Regiment.  His name appears on the Vimy Memorial in France

The cenotaph in Vienna:

Erected in
Honour of All
Men and Women
Who Served in
World Wars I & II
In Grateful Tribute
Toward the Living and
The Dead Whose Valiant
Effort and Bitter
Sacrifice was Made that
Freedom and Justice
Shall not perish from
The Earth

Be Humble, For in this Presence They are Remembered

Erected in 1949

1914 – 1918

To the Glory of God
And in Loving Memory of the
Ex-Pupils of Vienna School and Men of this District
Who Died in service in the Great War and
Grateful Tribute to those who served over seas
and, Daring to Die, survived.

Our Honoured Dead

Frank Brinn
Emerson Campbell
Albert Eakins
Robert Grant
Russell Johnson
Robert Lauthers
Clarke Locker
Walter Marlatt
Carl Miles
John Murphy
Edward Pulham

Of the above names, Frank Brinn, Albert Eakins, Robert Grant, Walter Marlatt and John Murphy also appear on the cenotaph in Port Burwell.  Information on these men can be found in the Port Burwell section.

An article regarding a memorial service for five men from Vienna who were killed in action was printed in the Aylmer Express, December 14, 1916:

VIENNA HELD MEMORIAL SERVICE FOR FIVE HEROES

St. Luke’s church, Vienna, was filled to overflowing Sunday afternoon, when memorial services were held for five of the Vienna boys who have given their lives in their country’s service: Privates Carl Miles and Russell Johnson; who died while in training; Sergt. Mervin Hopkinson; Privates Walter Marlatt and John H. Murphy, who were killed in action “Somewhere in France”.  Rev. Mr. Corley preached the sermon and took for his text the 33rd verse of the 17th chapter of St. Luke: “Whosoever shall seek to save his life shall lose it, and whosoever shall lose his life for my sake shall preserve it”.

Pte. Emerson Campbell

190027  Emerson Campbell

Emerson Campbell was born on March 31, 1885 at Mabee’s Corners in Middleton Township, Norfolk County, the son of William Campbell & Mary Jane (Jennie) Kilbourn, who were married in Malahide Township on June 8, 1880.  William Campbell was born in Middleton Township in 1852, the son of Robert & Jennett Campbell.  Mary Jane was born in 1859 in North Dorchester Township, the daughter of Charles & Harriet Kilbourn.  Both she and William were living in Malahide at the time of their marriage.

The family appears in the 1901 census in Vienna (page 2).  William & Mary are found on the 1911 Bayham census (Div. 2, page 10).  Other members of the family were: Earnest (born 1881  in Malahide); Minnie May (born 1883 Middleton Township); and Clarence (born and died 1891 in Bayham).  Emerson cannot be found on the 1911 census.

Emerson enlisted for service on February 29, 1916 in Port Burwell.  He was residing in Vienna, and was employed as a gasman.  He names his mother, Jane Campbell, of Vienna, as his next of kin.  He was not married.

Emerson died on August 23, 1917 while serving with the 58th Battalion of Canadian Infantry, Central Ontario Regiment.  He is buried in Aix-Noulette Communal Cemetery Extension in France.

Emerson’s death was reported in the Aylmer Express, September 13, 1917:

Mr and Mrs Wm. Campbell, of Vienna, have received word that their son, Pte. Emerson Campbell, had been killed in action in France, on Aug. 23, Pte. Campbell went overseas with the 91st Battalion, but was later transferred to the 58th Battalion.  He had been in the trenches for the past four or five months.

His death was also reported in the St. Thomas Journal, September 6, 1917:

PTE. EMERSON CAMPBELL IS KILLED IN ACTION

Pte. Emerson Campbell was killed in action in France on August 23, according to word received by the young hero’s parents, Mr and Mrs William Campbell, Vienna.  He went overseas with a local battalion and had been in the trenches four or five months.  Mrs. Willard Wiles, Miller street, this city, is a sister of Pte. Campbell.

The St. Thomas Daily Times of September 6, 1917 published a photo of Emerson, with a similar caption:

91ST SOLDIER KILLED; HOME WAS IN VIENNA

PTE. EMERSON CAMPBELL

Vienna, Sept. 6 – Mr and Mrs William Campbell received word today that their son, Private Emerson Campbell, had been killed in action in France on Aug. 23.  Private Campbell went overseas with the 91st Battalion, but was later transferred to the 58th Battalion. He had been in the trenches for the past four or five months.  Pte. Campbell was a brother of Mrs. Willard Wiles, Miller Street, St. Thomas.

A letter from one of Emerson Campbell’s comrades was printed in the St. Thomas Daily Times, September 25, 1917:

PTE. E. CAMPBELL NEVER KNOWN TO SHIRK DUTY

Letter From Corp. Bartlett With Regard to Death of Former Elgin Man

Mr and Mrs William Campbell, of Vienna, have received the following letter from Corp. E. N. Bartlett, of the 58th Battalion, with respect to the death of their son, Pte. Emerson Campbell.  

“It is with the deepest regret that I take this opportunity of notifying you of the death of your son, Emerson Campbell. He lost his life doing his duty but I am truly thankful that he did not suffer any as death was instantaneous.  Please accept by heartfelt sympathy in this your sad hour of bereavement.  You have lost a good son and I have never known him to shirk from duty [words illegible] a dear friend and chum.  I am glad to report that I know that he got a decent burial and is buried far enough behind the lines that Fritzies shells will not disturb his body. He is buried in a nice cemetery with Canadians.  Will write shortly and tell you the name of place of burial later as it will not pass the censors now.  Accept my most heartfelt sympathy.

From your loving friend, Corp. E. N. Bartlett”

Emerson’s parents are buried in St. Luke’s cemetery, Vienna.  William died in 1935, and his wife Jane died in 1938.  Emerson’s sister, Minnie May (1883 – 1918), wife of Willard B. Wiles, is buried in the same plot.

William Campbell’s obituary appeared in the Aylmer Express, May 2, 1935:

WILLIAM CAMPBELL DIED AT VIENNA

William Campbell, aged 83, died at his home at Vienna, Tuesday night, April 30th, following a lengthy illness.  He was born in Norfolk County and as a young man was a successful farmer in Middleton township. For the past forty-five years he had resided in Vienna, and was living retired for twenty years. He was a member of the United Church at Vienna and a Reformer in politics.  Many friends are left to mourn his loss.  Besides his widow, he is survived by four grandchildren:  Mrs. Harry Parkins, St. Thomas; Gladys, of Detroit; Hugh Wiles, London; and Harry Wiles, Detroit.  Mrs. John Davis, of Malahide, is a niece.  The funeral will be held on Friday, May 3rd. A private service will be held at the home at 2 p.m., and a public service in the Vienna United Church at 2:30 in charge of Rev. D. D. Gaynor.  Interment in St. Luke’s cemetery, Vienna.

Pte.  Russell Johnston

226117

Although Russell’s surname on the Vienna cenotaph is spelled “Johnson”, the spelling actually used by the family was “Johnston”.

Russell was born on July 19, 1892 in Vienna, the son of John Wellington Johnston & Barbara Ellen Avard.  John W. Johnston was born about 1854 in Cumberland, Nova Scotia, the son of Cyrus Johnston & Jane Thornthwaite.  The family is found on the 1901 census in Vienna (page 4-5), and in 1911 (Div. 27, page 3).  Other members of the family were: Norman (1882), Mabel & May (twins, 1884); Cinthey Jane (1886); Ella Kavanagh (1890), and Harry Allan (1896).

Russell enlisted for service on October 11, 1915 in Ingersoll. He was living in Vienna, and he names his next of kin as his mother, Ellen Johnston, also of Vienna. His occupation was blacksmith and shoeing smith, and he was not married.  He had previous militia experience with “B” Squadron, Depot Regiment, C. M.R.  He incorrectly gave his date of birth as July 19, 1894.

Russell died on January 8, 1916 at the age of 21, in a Hamilton, Ontario hospital.  He was training with the Canadian Mounted Rifles. He died from pneumonia, from which he had suffered five days.    He is buried with his parents in St. Luke’s cemetery, Vienna.

Russell’s death was reported in the Aylmer Express, January 23, 1916:

VIENNA SOLDIER IN TRAINING DIES IN HOSPITAL

Vienna, Jan. 10 – The people of the village were shocked on Saturday when J. E. Smith received a telegram from Hamilton that Private Russel Johnson had died in the hospital there and that the remains would arrive here on the evening train.  Russel was a jolly as well as a rugged fellow, a blacksmith by trade, and had spent his holidays at his old home here.  Although he had a bad cold when he left the first of the week, no one thought it serious until on Thursday his mother received a telegram that he had pneumonia.  On Friday came another message saying that he was bad and wanted her to come.  She and her son Norman left on the afternoon train, getting into Hamilton Friday night.  He expired on Saturday morning, about nine.  It seems doubly sad, his father having died a short time ago. His people have the sympathy of the community.

Another announcement of his death appeared in the St. Thomas Journal, January 14, 1916:

FORMER VIENNA MAN DIES

Vienna, Jan. 14 – Pte. Russell Johnson, formerly of Vienna, late of Hamilton, succumbed to an attack of pneumonia last Saturday morning.  He had spent his holidays at his old home, and it was a great shock to his mother when she received word of his illness. On Friday she hurried to Hamilton, accompanied by another son, Norman, and was with him when he passed away.  His body was brought to Vienna for interment.

John Wellington Johnston died on July 12, 1915 in his 62nd year; and his wife Barbara Ellen Avard survived him by a number of years, passing away on April 25, 1935 in her 76th year.  Russell’s name appears on their monument in St. Luke’s cemetery, as well as a military marker, with the following inscription:

226117 Pte. Russell Johnston C.M.R   C.E.F.  8th January 1916

Barbara’s obituary appeared in the Aylmer Express, May 2, 1935:

MRS. J. W. JOHNSTON DIED AT SPRINGFIELD

Mrs. Barbara Ellen Johnston passed away on Thursday afternoon at her home, Hornby street, after a long illness.  Mrs. Johnston, who was a highly esteemed resident, was the widow of John Wellington Johnston, who passed away in July 1915.  She was born in Oakville, Ont., a daughter of the late Mr and Mrs Avard, and came to Springfield shortly after the death of her husband.  She was a kind neighbor and a model mother, and beloved by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Surviving are an only brother, Charles Avard, of Aylmer; five daughters: Mrs. Lisgar Koyle, wife of Reeve Koyle, of Springfield; Mrs. Oscar Koyle, Rodney; Mrs. W. Wilkinson, St. Thomas; Mrs. Clarence Grigg, Ypsilanti, Mich.; and Miss May, who has been her mother’s constant companion, and two sons, Harry A. Johnston of Ingersoll; and Norman, of Calton. One son, Russell, died of pneumonia in 1916, while serving in the army during the Great War. Although this was a great grief to Mrs. Johnston, she bore her sorrow bravely and made life a joy to her children and grandchildren. She was especially fond of her two great grandchildren, the little son and daughter of her granddaughter, Mrs. Clarence Gough. The funeral was held from her late home, Saturday afternoon, April 27, at half-past two o’clock, and was private. Interment was made in the family plot in St. Luke’s cemetery, Vienna, where her husband is at rest.  She was in her 77th year.

Pte. Robert Lauthers

2356038

Robert Lazarus Lauthers was born on February 29, 1896 in Elkton, Michigan, the son of Robert Lauthers and Sarah Jane Light, who were married on March 21, 1889 in Vienna.  Robert Lauthers Sr. was born in Canada in 1862, but living in Michigan at the time of his marriage.  Sarah Jane Light was born on July 23, 1868 in Bayham, the daughter of Lazarus Light & Rhoda Abbe.  

It is believed that Robert & Sarah Jane lived in Bayham for a time following their marriage, as their first four children were born in Ontario: Eva Almeda (ca 1890); Matilda Clara (ca 1892); Edna (ca 1892), and Olive Lorienne (ca 1894).  It is not known if the family returned to Bayham to live for a short time following Robert’s birth in 1896.  The family cannot be found on census records in the United States or Canada.  It is possible that Robert’s name was included on the Vienna cenotaph because of his mother’s connection to Bayham Township.

Robert enlisted for service on January 9, 1918 in London, Ontario.  He gives his address as 1420 Garland Street, Flint, Michigan.  He names his sister as next of kin, Mrs. Edna Couchman, of 1913 Beech Street, Flint.  He was a teamster and was not married.

Robert died from disease, on November 9, 1918, at the age of 22, while serving with the 50th Battalion of Canadian Infantry, Albert Regiment.  He is buried in Abbeville Communal Cemetery Extension, Somme, France.

Pte. Clarke Burns Locker

860049

Clarke Locker was born on October 13, 1887 in Bayham Township, the son of Robert William Locker & Alma Vanpatter, who were married on February 21, 1883 in Malahide.  Robert was born in 1849, the son of Robert & Susannah Locker, and was living in Bayham at the time of his marriage.  Alma was born in 1851 in Malahide, the daughter of John & Esther Vanpatter, and was living in Malahide.

The family is found on the 1901 Bayham census (Div. 2, page 3), where Robert was a farmer. They lived at Griffin’s Corners near Vienna.  Other members of the family were: Lorne (1884); Mary Augusta (1890), and Robert Milton (1896).  On the 1911 census, Alma, Clarke, Mary & Robert Jr. are living in Brantford.  At this time, Robert W. Locker was a patient in the Hamilton Asylum with heart disease. He died there on October 30, 1913 at the age of 62, after a three-week illness from typhoid fever.

Clarke and his mother (and maybe other members of the family) then moved to Saskatchewan, where they homesteaded at Willowfield. 

Clarke enlisted for service on May 17, 1916 in Winnipeg.  He gives his address as Willowfield Post Office, Saskatchewan and names his mother (also of Willowfield) as next of kin.  He was a rancher, and was not married.  He was a member of the 79th Cameron Highlanders of Canada and also had three years militia experience with the 38th Dufferin Rifles.

Clarke died on November 28, 1916 of asthma at the age of 29 while serving with the 43rd Battalion of Canadian Infantry, Manitoba Regiment.  He is buried in Netley Military Cemetery, Hampshire, England.

Robert (1849 – 1913) & Alma Locker (1851 – 1928)  are buried in St. Luke’s cemetery, Vienna.  Clarke’s name also appears on the monument with the following inscription:

“In loving memory of Clarke Burns Locker, died in France, November 28, 1916, age 29 years. For King & Country”.

Notice of Clarke’s death was printed in the St. Thomas Journal, January 3, 1917:

PTE. CLARKE B. LOCKER, FORMER VIENNA MAN, DIES ABOARD SHIP

Nephew of J. M. VanPatter Victim of Cardiac Asthma

Had Been at Front Only a Few Weeks 

Aylmer, Jan. 3 – In Tuesday’s casualties appears the name of among those that died, Pte. Clarke B. Locker, of Willowfield, Sask., who died of asthma.  He was born near Vienna, and was a nephew of J. M. VanPatter of John Street south, who has two sons at the front.  A letter received last week said that Clarke was suffering from that disease, but nothing further was heard until Tuesday’s paper told the story.  Deceased had only been at the front in France a few weeks and died on a hospital ship.  His many friends will be sorry to hear of his death.

Alma’s obituary appeared in the Aylmer Express, August 9, 1928:

MRS. ALMA LOCKER DIED IN WINNIPEG

Funeral at Luton on Friday

Mrs. Alma Locker, relict of the late Robert Locker, formerly of East Elgin, died in the Winnipeg Hospital, following an illness of two weeks, on Tuesday morning, August 7th.  She was in her 78th year and for many years was a resident of Luton and Griffin’s Corners, moving to the West some twenty years ago. She is survived by one brother, Everett VanPatter, of Luton, and several nephews and nieces here. The remains will be brought here and the funeral service will be held on Friday, the 10th inst., at the home of Everett VanPatter, Luton, at 2:30 p.m.  Interment will take place in the Vienna cemetery.

Additional details were printed in the Aylmer Express, August 16, 1928: [note the article contains several errors]

MRS. ALMA LOCKER PASSES

Mrs. Alma Locker, relict of the late John [sic] Locker, passed away in Winnipeg, on Tuesday, August 7th last, in her 77th year.  The remains were brought east by her son, Mr. Lorne V. Locker, of Chicago, who had hastened to his mother’s bedside on hearing of her illness.  The funeral was held from the home of her brother, Evert VanPatter, on Friday last, with interment in the Vienna cemetery.  Her husband, the late John VanPatter [sic], predeceased her about fifteen years. She is survived by one brother, Evert VanPatter, two sons, Lorne V., of Chicago; and Robert M., of Arelee, Sask.; one daughter, Mrs. Chas. Forshaw, of Wayne, Mich.  Since the death of her husband she spent most of her time with her son, Lorne V., in Chicago.

Pte. Joseph Carroll Miles

189852  Joseph Miles

The name of Carl Miles appears on the cenotaph in Vienna, but his full name was Joseph Carroll Miles.  He was born on June 10, 1898 in Westminster Township, Middlesex County, the son of Emanuel C. Miles (born 1859) & Cecelia Catherine Light.  Cecelia was born in 1858, the daughter of George Light (a native of England) & Anna Balcom (a native of Nova Scotia).  The 1901 census states that Emanuel was born in Ontario, while the 1911 census gives England as his place of birth.

The family is found on the 1901 Bayham census (Div. 2, page 8), and in 1911 (Div. 2, page 3).  Prior to living in Bayham, Emanuel & Cecelia were living in Yarmouth Township where their first two children were born, and later Westminster where Joseph Carroll was born in 1898.

Other members of the family were: George Oscar (1892 – 1893), and Flossie (1894).

Joseph Carroll (Carl) Miles enlisted for service on January 8, 1916 in St. Thomas.  He was living in Vienna at the time, and names his mother, also of Vienna, as his next of kin. He was a labourer and was not married.  He had served one year in the 39th Norfolk Regiment.

Carl died in Bayham Township on June 11, 1916 at the age of 18 years from a ten-day illness of acute pneumonia.  He is buried in Light Cemetery, Bayham township.

A brief notice of his passing was reported in the Aylmer Express, June 15, 1916: 

Pte Carl Miles of the 91st Battalion passed away at his home in Vienna on Sunday from pneumonia. 

Another similar article appeared in the St. Thomas Journal, June 13, 1916:

Vienna, June 13 – Pte. Carl Miles, of the 91st Battalion, who has been ill at his home near here for a few weeks, of pneumonia, died Sunday.  He was the only son of Mr and Mrs Emmanuel Miles, and except for his sister, Flossie, the only child.

A more detailed obituary appeared in the Tillsonburg Observer, June 15, 1916:

YOUNG VIENNA SOLDIER MEETS WITH SAD DEATH

Our Vienna correspondent writes:

Pte. Carl Miles of the 91st Battalion, died on Sunday at his home in this place. He enlisted with the 91st last fall.  He had just got over an attack of measles and was coming home for a short visit to his parents, Mr and Mrs E. C. Miles, before going overseas.  When within a mile or so of his home something went wrong with his bicycle and he was thrown from it into a ditch of water, receiving a thorough drenching, in consequence of which pneumonia was contracted and later on the young man died.  He had just reached his eighteenth year on the Saturday before he died.  He was the only son of his parents and besides them leaves one sister, Flossie, at home. The funeral took place on Sunday, the interment being made at St. Luke’s cemetery. The sympathy of the community go out to the parents in their sad loss.

It is assumed that he was still in training since he passed away only six months after enlisting.  His name appears on two monuments in Light cemetery, one a military marker, bearing the following inscriptions:

Military marker: 189852 Private Joseph C. Miles, 91st Battn. C.E.F., 11th June 1916 Asleep in Jesus

Another marker – Joseph Carl, son of E. & C. Miles; died June 11, 1916, aged 18 years

His mother, Cecelia died on July 28, 1927, and his father Emanuel, passed away in1944. They are also buried in Light Cemetery.

Corporal Edwin Bryan Pulham

166190  

The name of Edward Pulham appears on the cenotaph in Vienna, but his full name was Edwin Bryan Pulham.

Edwin was born on January 21, 1881 at Stow-on-the Wold, Gloucestershire, England, the son of Frederick Pulham & Elizabeth Bryan.  Frederick was a cabinet maker. The family is found on the 1891 census in Maugersbury, Stow-on-the Wold, Gloucestershire, living on Oddfellow’s Row.

Edwin was married in 1902 in Gloucestershire to Fanny Cook.  It appears they emigrated to Canada after the 1911 census was taken, as they cannot be located in Ontario in that record.  They lived at R. R. 1 Port Burwell when they came to Canada.

Edwin enlisted for service on September 13, 1915 in St. Thomas.  He names his next of kin as his wife Fanny, of R. R. 1, Port Burwell.  He was a foreman, and had served six years in the 4th Gloucesters Regiment.

Notice of Edwin being wounded was reported in the Tillsonburg Liberal, October 17, 1918, in the Vienna news column:

Mrs. Pulman [sic] received word on Friday, that her husband, Pte. E. B. Pulman [sic], has been shelled and gassed and is in General Hospital, Clearing Station, France.  Mr. Pullman went overseas three years ago this fall.  This is the second time he has been wounded. Since he was wounded two years ago, he has remained in England on duty and only returned to France last June.

Edwin died from wounds (gas), on October 31, 1918 at the age of 38, while serving with the Canadian Engineers.  He is buried in Orpington (All Saints) Churchyard Extension, Kent, England.  

Notice of Edwin’s death was reported in the Aylmer Express, November 7, 1918, in the Calton column:

Mrs. Fanny Pulham received a telegram Monday morning that her husband, Corporal Edwin Byron Pulham, of the Military Hospital, Orpington, had died of influenza and pneumonia, on October the 31st. She has the sympathy of the entire community.

The St. Thomas Times-Journal, November 7, 1918, also reported Edwin’s death:

VIENNA SOLDIER DIES IN ENGLAND

Vienna, Nov. 7 – Mrs. Pulham received the sad news of the death of her husband. Mr. Pulham was one of the first to answer the call of his country.  He also was a veteran of the South African War.  He died in England in a hospital from the effects of being gassed, and leaves to mourn his loss a wife and three children, who have the sincerest sympathy of the community in their sad bereavement.

It appears that Fanny returned to England following the death of her husband.  Information gathered by the Veterans Affairs of Canada gives her address as 3 Park View Terrace, Brighton Road, Horsham, Sussex, England.

Memorial in Richmond West Cemetery, Bayham Township:

There is also a memorial monument in the Richmond West cemetery with the following names and inscription:

Killed in action 1914 – 1918.  Greater Love hath no man than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.

Gnr. E. D. Mitchell

Pte. H. G. Ravin

Pte. R. G. Grant

Pte. J. Hatch

Sgt. C. E. Orton

Pte. C. Mathews

Pte. E. Pearson

Pte. F. Kilmer

Pte. H. Thompson

Gnr. M. J. Benner

Pte. C. McEwen

Dvr. W. H. Claire

Of the above, the Aylmer Cenotaph also has the names of: E. D. Mitchell, C. E. Orton, F. Kilmer, H. Thompson, and W. H. Claire.

The cenotaph in Port Burwell has the names of: H. G. Raven, R. G. Grant, and E. Pearson.

It is believed this is that “C. Mathews” is  same person as Harry Clifford Matthews on the Aylmer cenotaph.  It is also believed that “C. McEwen” is the same person as Charles Robertson McEwen, reported earlier in this volume.

The only other name on the Richmond memorial not previously recorded in this volume is J. Hatch.

Pte. John Edwin Hatch

  400907  John Hatch

John Edwin Hatch was born on February 22, 1888 at Eden in Bayham Township, the son of Jesse Levi Hatch and Sarah Amelia Welsh, who were married on December 27, 1875 in Vienna.  Jesse was born in Bayham in 1849, the son of David W. Hatch & Eleanor (Ellen) Bowes.  Sarah was born in 1855 in East Zorra Township, the daughter of Allen & Charity Welch.  She was living in East Zorra at the time of her marriage.

The family is found on the 1901 census in Bayham (Div. 4, page 3-4).  They later moved to St. Thomas, where Jesse died on November 4, 1910 at 8 Weldon Avenue.  His widow Sarah and son John are found on the 1911 census in St. Thomas (Div. 38, page 4).

Other members of the family were Edna E. (1879); Myrtle (1886) and Letitia A. (1897 – 1901), and Edgar.

John’s mother Sarah died in London in 1935 and is buried beside her husband Jesse in Richmond West cemetery.

John was married in St. Thomas on June 21, 1911 to Ella Beatrice Jackson, the daughter of John Robert Jackson & Lydia Emma Massendar.  She was born at Mapleton but was living in St. Thomas at the time of her marriage. 

An undated newspaper clipping describes their marriage:

HATCH – JACKSON

THOMAS, June 23 – A very pleasant event took place at the home of Mr and Mrs John R. Jackson, 37 Woodworth avenue, on Wednesday afternoon, June 21, when their daughter, Miss Ella Beatrice, was united in marriage to John E. Hatch, Weldon avenue.  The ceremony was performed by Rev. Dr. Gundy, of Grace Church, in the presence of immediate relatives.  After a much enjoyed course of refreshments the happy couple left on the 4:30 M.C.R. for London and will on their return, reside at No. 8 Weldon Avenue.

John enlisted for service on May 10, 1915 in London.  He names his next of kin as his wife Ella B. Hatch of 39 Woodworth Ave., St. Thomas.  His occupation is given as a moulder, and had served 6 years in the 25th Regiment.

John was first listed as missing in action, in an undated newspaper clipping:

SAFETY OF PTE. JOHN E. HATCH IS IN DOUBT

Report Published in London to Effect That He is Missing Lacks Confirmation

Mrs. Etta Hatch, wife of Pte. John E. Hatch, and her father, John Jackson, 37 Woodward avenue, are worried over a report which appeared in a London paper Friday morning to the effect that Mrs. Hatch’s husband, Pte. John E. Hatch, No. 400907, is reported missing.  Pte. Hatch left here as a bugler in the 33rd Battalion and had been in the trenches.  Neither Mrs. Hatch nor Mr. Jackson had received any official word concerning the matter, and efforts to secure any information concerning the origin of the report in London proved futile.  Mr. Jackson is now endeavoring to get either some confirmation or denial from the Adjutant-General at Ottawa.  Pte. Hatch, before enlisting, was a valued employee of the Canada Iron Corporation. He was well-known in the city.

John died on June 2, 1916 at the age of 28, while serving with the 4th Canadian Mounted Rifles, 2nd Central Ontario Regiment. His name appears on the Menin Gate (Ypres) Memorial in Belgium.

John’s death was reported in a St. Thomas newspaper, undated:

BUGLER HATCH GIVES LIFE IN A GREAT CAUSE

Former Member of 25th Regt. is Officially Reported “Killed in Action”

WIFE AND HIS THREE YOUNG CHILDREN HERE

Deceased Was Native of Bayham And a Member of Grace Church

Pte. John E. Hatch, who has been previously reported “missing” is now declared dead.  His wife, who resides at the home of her parents, Mr and Mrs J. R. Jackson, 37 Woodworth avenue, received the following telegram from Ottawa: – “Deeply regret to inform you No. 400907, Pte. John E. Hatch, Mounted Rifles, previously reported missing, now killed in action, June 2nd. (Sgd. Officer in Charge Record Office”.

Besides his wife, Pte. Hatch leaves three children, Laura, aged 4 years; Lena, two years, and Hazel, nine months.  Pte. Hatch, better known in St. Thomas as Bugler Hatch, was born in Bayham township near Eden and was in the 29th year of his age.  He worked for several years as a moulder at the local plant of the Canadian Iron Foundry Ltd., and at the time of enlistment was driving a bread wagon for Mr. Bennett, Talbot street east.  He came with his parents to St. Thomas about ten years ago and resided on Weldon avenue, where his father predeceased him about six years ago.  His mother is now living in London at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Ed. Noel, Dundas street. Besides Mrs. Noel, he leaves another sister, Mrs. Neil McEachren in Delaware street, London East; also one brother Pte. Edgar Hatch, now in active service overseas.

Pte. Hatch was a member of the 25th Regiment for six years, four years as a private and two years as a bugler, receiving corporal’s stripes. He was also a member of Grace Methodist church and the Order of Canadian Home Circles, No. 152.  He enlisted in the 33rd Battalion May 10, 1915, and after reaching England was transferred to the 4th C.M.R., and drafted for active service at the front, leaving England May 25.

A letter received by his widow was also printed in the newspaper, date unknown:

OFFICER WRITES OF J. E. HATCH’S DEATH

Major Gordon Deeply Mourns Loss in Action of Brave St. Thomas Soldier

Mrs. Ella Hatch has received the following letter from Major Gordon, O.C., 4th C. M. R., of which her husband was a member when he was killed:

“Mrs. Ella B. Hatch
37 Woodworth Ave.
St. Thomas, Ont., Canada

I wish to express my deepest sympathy in the loss of your husband, J. E. Hatch.  I regret that I am unable to give you any definite particulars of the circumstances under which he met his death other than that he died in the execution of his duties in the front line during one of the most intense bombardments yet experienced on the British front.  The few survivors have been questioned with a view to gathering further particulars but as none of the men who were with your husband at that time survived, regret there is no information forthcoming.  The parcels you refer to in your letter were no doubt opened and enjoyed by the survivors of the engagement.  All parcels addressed to deceased and missing men were divided among the survivors and a letter to the effect that this liberty had been taken, which we hoped would meet with approval, was sent to the senders of all parcels where the name was legible.  I regret that you were not advised.
With deepest sympathy, M. Gordon”

An obituary for Jesse Hatch, (John’s father) appeared in the Aylmer Express, November 17, 1910:

Mr. Jessey Hatch, who was a life long resident of Bayham, passed away at his home in St. Thomas, last Friday at the age of 52 years. He was a younger son of the late David Hatch, of Maple Grove.  The remains were laid to rest beside his little daughter Letticia, in Richmond cemetery west.  He leaves a widow, 3 sons and 2 daughters to mourn his sudden death.

Ella Hatch continued to live in St. Thomas, where she passed away in 1973 at the age of 83.  Her obituary appeared in an undated clipping:

MRS. ELLA HATCH

Mrs. Ella Beatrice Jackson Hatch of Valleyview Home, St. Thomas and formerly of 48 Hughes Street, St. Thomas died at Valleyview on Saturday, after several years of illness.  She was 83.  Born at Mapleton, on April 26, 1890, she was the daughter of the late John Robert Jackson and Lydia Emma Massendar Jackson, and had lived in St. Thomas since 1903. She worked for a number of years with the Red Cross, was a member of Grace United Church, St. Thomoas, and a member of the Victorian Circle.  She was a life member of the Ladies Auxiliary of Branch 41, Royal Canadian Legion of which she was secretary for a number of years.  Former secretary-treasurer of The Silver Cross, she was also a member of the Edna Rebekah Lodge, No. 14, the First Canadian Zuanna Lodge, Nov. 16.  Her husband, John Edwin Hatch, died in 1916.  Survived by a son, Robert Douglas Hatch, of RR 1 Sparta; three daughters, Mrs. Elmer (Laura) Binkle, Kitchener; Mrs. Lena Hunter of 71 Ross street, St. Thomas, and Mrs. Harold (Hazel) Rock of 273 Alma Street, St. Thomas; a brother, William E. Jackson of Cambridge, and several grandchildren and great grandchildren. Funeral service was held from The Towers Funeral Home Limited, 31 Elgin Street, St. Thomas this afternoon, with Rev. C. W. MacKay of Grace United Church, officiating.  Interment was made in the family plot of the St. Thomas Cemetery.

Ella is buried in St. Thomas Cemetery, West Ave., with her parents.  Her husband’s name is also on the monument, with the following inscription: “John E. Hatch – He died for freedom & honor”

More References From the Aylmer Express

In addition to the names found on the above cenotaphs, there are several more men with connections to the area who gave their lives in the Great War.  The following names were found in the Aylmer Express.

Pte. John Hollingworth

6808

The Aylmer Express of March 25, 1915 contains the following article:

“Among the names on the casualty list sent out from Ottawa of soldiers killed and wounded in France, was Pte. J. Hollingshead, a member of the 1st Battalion, who is reported killed in action.  It is stated that Pte. Hollingshead enlisted at St. Thomas and gave his place of residence as Malahide.  It is said he was working on a farm on the 1st concession previous to enlisting.”

The St. Thomas Journal, March 20, 1915, also records the death of Pte. J. Hollingshead or Hollingsworth of Malahide:

PTE. J. HOLLINGSWORTH OR HOLLINGSHEAD, WHO JOINED HERE,

IS REPORTED KILLED

Lieut. Clarke, Aylmer, and Lt.-Col. Green, of St. Thomas, Do Not Remember Such a Man, But Records are Being Searched – Said to Have Worked for Farmer on First Concession of Malahide

The Canadian casualty list sent out from Ottawa yesterday contains the name of Pte. J. Hollingshead or Hollingsworth, a member of the First Battalion, who is reported killed in action.  It is stated that Pte. Hollingshead is a Malahide township man and that he enlisted at St. Thomas.  The Journal got in touch with Lieut. L. F. Clarke, at Aylmer, this morning and the latter stated that he was unable to place the man who is reported killed.  Lieut. Clarke said that he had made a number of enquiries but that no one seemed to know anything of such a man.  Lt.-Col. W. J. Green, commanding officer of the 25th Regiment, also stated that he could not remember a man of this name enlisting at St. Thomas, and he was of the opinion that a mistake had been made in the address.  However, Col. Green is having the records carefully gone over to definitely ascertain if Hollingshead volunteered at St. Thomas. The dead private, over whose name and address there seems to be some confusion, was an Englishman, a native of Lancashire, but is said to have been working on a farm on the first concession of Malahide before the war broke out. His next of kin is said to be S. Hollinsgworth, of Hollingshead, Higherhurst, Ashton-on-Lyne, Lancashire, England.  With the possible exception of Pte. Hollingshead, no deaths have been reported among the men who enlisted at St. Thomas.

Unable to Locate Man Here

Lieut.-Col. Green stated on Saturday afternoon that the records showed that no man by the name of Hollingshead, Hollingsworth, or any similar name, enlisted here in August last for the First Canadian Contingent.

Unfortunately, the Aylmer Express gave his name incorrectly as “Hollingshead”, when in fact the correct surname is “Hollingworth”.

The Veterans Affairs of Canada database shows a Pte. John Hollingworth, service number 6808, who died on March 5, 1915.  He was serving with the 1st Battalion of Canadian Infantry (Western Ontario Regiment).  He was born February 7, 1894, and is buried in “Y” Farm Military Cemetery, Bois-Grenier, France.

An attestation paper was found for John, in which he states he was born in Ashton-under-Lyne, Lancashire, England on February 7, 1894.  He names his next of kin as his brother, S. Hollingworth, of Hurst, Ashton-under-Lyne, Lancashire.  He was a labourer and was single.  He had three years previous military experience with the 23rd Regiment in Bracebridge.  He enlisted on September 15, 1914 at Valcartier.  His place of residence was not requested on the form.

John is found on the 1911 Canadian census in Watt Township, Muskoka District, living with his cousin, John H. Hollingworth.  He emigrated to Canada in 1903.  This would be in the Bracebridge area which coincides with his military experience with the 23rd Regiment there.

On the 1901 census in England, John is found in the parish of Hurst, Lancashire, age 7, with his widowed  mother Nancy, age 30, a cotton weaver.  Other members of the family are Annie, 10, Samuel, 8, and Joseph, 4.  Their address was 46 Nook Lane.

John was the son of George Harry Hollingworth (1866 – 1900) and Nancy Ann Hague, who were married in 1889 in Ashton-under-Lyne, Lancashire. 

The Aylmer Express article states that John was working on a farm on the 1st concession of Malahide previous to enlisting. Since he is found on the 1911 census in Muskoka, he obviously moved to Malahide after that date, and prior to 1914.  The confusion over the man’s name and place of enlistment reported in the Journal seems to have arisen by the fact that John enlisted at Valcartier, not St. Thomas.  It seems odd that the Journal knew the facts of his place of birth and next of kin, but did not know where he enlisted and the correct spelling of his name.

Pte. William Smith

The Aylmer Express of June 24, 1915 contains the following article:

“William Smith, formerly of London, has died of wounds received in battle. He was only 33 years old. His parents are dead. He leaves a brother near Woodstock and a widow and child.  It is believed that the widow and child reside near Aylmer.”

This man has been very difficult to identify.  The Veterans Affairs of Canada website lists a William Isaac Smith, who died on June 6, 1915, age 23, son of the late Harry Herbert & Mary A. E. Smith, of Walton, Suffolk, England. He served in the Manitoba Regiment of the Canadian Infantry, and is buried in Lillers Communal cemetery.  His service number if 1055.  His attestation paper, dated Sept. 23, 1914, states he is 21 years and 8 months old, born Wilton, Suffolk, England on Jan. 20, 1893.  He lists his next of kin as a brother, Edgar Smith, of the New Dufferin Hotel, Woodstock.  William’s occupation is bartender.  He states he is not married.  His residence was not requested on the form.  He enlisted at Valcartier.

Although there are some discrepancies with the report in the Aylmer Express (widow and child), and his age (23, not 33); the brother in Woodstock and the parents being deceased, match.

The family was found in the 1901 England census in Walton, Suffolk.  The parents, Harry H. & Mary Ann E. Smith had other children, including Emily M., 11; Thomas H., 10, Harry H., age 6, and Edgar, age 3.  Edgar’s marriage record was found in Ontario, dated January 20, 1916.  He was 20 years old, living in Woodstock, born England, a soldier, son of Harry Smith & Elizabeth Kidd.  He married Adeline Dines.   

Although the above William Smith’s date of death is the closest to that of the man reported in the Aylmer Express, it cannot be completely proven he is the same man.

Gunner L. J. Searls

1702

Although Gunner Searls did not live in the area, his sister and mother were residents of Malahide and Aylmer, and are buried in Burdick cemetery.  The following article in the Aylmer Express, March 16, 1916, accompanied by a photo of Gunner Searls, tells of his death:

GUNNER L. J. SEARLS KILLED IN FRANCE

Brother of Mrs. F. L. Smith and Mrs. John Fisher, of This Place 

Gives His Life For His Country

“Mrs. F. L. Smith has received the following official advice of the death of her brother, from Capt. W. Ellem, O.C. Seige Battery, R.G.A. –

Dear Madam:
I deeply regret that your brother, Gunner L. J. Searls, was killed in action on 7 December last year. I return herewith your letter and its contents.  I wrote Mrs. Searls at the time and told her all the circumstances.  We buried him in a proper cemetery and have had a cross with a brass plate erected to his memory.  Everything was done that could be done under the circumstances.  He felt no pain, death being instantaneous.  May I offer my deepest sympathy, little enough perhaps, but sincere.  I am Madam,

Yours truly, W. M. Ellen, Capt. R.S.A., O.C. Seige Battery, R.G.A.

Many of our readers will remember an incident published in the Express a few months ago of an old lady becoming very excited on looking at a photo in the Express window, and discovering one of the soldiers to be her son.  It was he who lost his life as above stated. She was Mrs. Mills, whose death occurred at Amasa Wood Hospital, St. Thomas, last October. Gunner Searls was in the Royal Navy for some 12 years and won the China Medal at the time of the Chinese war.  He was in the trenches in France for 12 months, and previous to his fatal injuries, was wounded three times. Aylmer relatives have the sincere sympathy of the community in the loss of their brother, who died while nobly serving his King and country”.

Little information can be found on L. J. Searls, but he is listed in the records of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission.  His service number was 1702, and he died on December 7, 1915.  He was serving with the British army in the Royal Garrison Artillery, 7th Siege Battery.  He is buried in Vlamertinghe Military cemetery, Belgium.  His age is unknown.

J. Searles was the son of George Samuel Searls and Mary Eliza R. Caston, who were married in 1872 in London, England.  The family is found on the 1881 England census in Southwark, London: George S. Searle, 34, born St. George’s Middlesex; wife Mary E., 30, born Poplar, Middlesex; children: Ida, 6, born Chelsea, Middlesex; and Albert G., 1, born Christ Church, Surrey.  A birth registration was found for Albert George Searls in 1879 in Southwark, Surrey.

His mother and stepfather are found in the 1901 England census in Fulham, London, as follows:  Frederick Mills, 49, wife Mary E., 50 (born Poplar, London); children: Albert G. Searls, 21, born Southwark, London, soldier; Ethel M. Searls, 16 (born Ireland); Alice Mills, 12; and William Mills, 8, both born in Fulham, London.  A marriage record was found for Frederick Mills and Mary Eliza R. Searls in 1896 in London, England.  L. J. Searls cannot be located on any British census records, although the above 1901 listing does show a son who is a soldier.  There is also a Philip Searls found on the 1901 England census, serving in the Royal Navy, age 20, born in Kinsale, Ireland.

J.’s sister, Ida Eliza Searls was born in 1874 in London, England and emigrated to Canada about 1896.  She was living in Townsend Township, Norfolk County at the time of her marriage to James J. Fisher, of Malahide, on May 25, 1896 in Townsend.  Ida gives her parents’ names as George & Eliza Searls.  John J. & Ida Eliza Fisher are found on the 1901 Malahide census and 1911 Aylmer census with daughters Stella May and Myrtle Irene.  Living with them in 1911 is Ida Eliza’s mother, Mary Eliza Mills, who emigrated to Canada in 1910.

Mary Mills died on October 20, 1915 in St. Thomas, at the age of 63 years.  She is buried in Burdick cemetery in Malahide Township,  along with her daughter Ida Eliza (1874 – 1952) and her husband John Fisher (1871 – 1948). Also buried there is their daughter  Myrtle Irene Fisher (1889 – 1937).

The other daughter referred to in the article, Mrs. F. L. Smith, of Aylmer, cannot be found.

Mary Mills’ obituary appeared in the Aylmer Express, Oct. 28, 1915:

After a two months’ illness, Mrs. Mary Eliza Mills passed away at the Amasa Wood Hospital, St. Thomas, to which institution she was removed a few weeks ago.  Deceased, who was in her 64th year, was a native of England, coming to Canada some six years ago. She is survived by two sons, Albert, now with the British army in India, and Lawrence, now in the fighting line in France, also two daughters, Mrs. John J. Fisher and Mrs. L. F. Smith, both of this place.  Deceased was a most intelligent and highly respected lady, whose acquaintances could all be numbered as friends. The funeral took place from the home of her daughter, Mrs. Fred Smith, Spruce St., on Friday afternoon, the interment being made in the Burdick cemetery, east of town.

Pte. Frederick Cooke

400970

Frederick Cooke was a native of Dover, England who lived in Malahide Township for a few years with his parents before enlisting for service.  He was born in Dover on June 1, 1895, the son of Charles & Emma Cooke, of R.R. #1 Port Burwell.  He was a farmer and was not married.  He enlisted for service in St. Thomas on January 20, 1915.  He died on April 16, 1916 at the age of 18 while serving with the 10th Battalion, Canadian Infantry, Albert Regiment.  He is buried in Lijssenthock Military cemetery, Belgium.

Notice of Fred’s death appeared in the Lakeview news column in the Aylmer Express, May 11, 1916:

The sad news came to Mrs. Wm. Cook just as she had arranged to return to England hoping to see her seven sons, who are all at the Front, that two of them had given their lives for their country.  One, Fred, the youngest, accompanied his parents to Canada a couple of years ago, and enlisted with the 33rd Battalion and went overseas to the Front some months ago. The other had enlisted in England, and the message sent said he had gone down with a shop that was torpedoed recently.  Mrs. Cook, with her husband and family, resided on H. L. McConnell’s fruit farm until a few months ago.  Mr. Cook died very suddenly, and Mrs. Cook decided to return to England. She had been with her daughter in Sparta for a few weeks.  On learning of her great bereavement, she at once sailed for England.  Fred Cook was a young man who made many friends here, and all feel much sympathy for his mother in her double bereavement.

Although the above article gives the husband’s name as William, other sources agree on “Charles”.  A death registration was found for Charles Cooke on November 16, 1915 on Concession 1, Malahide, a labourer, aged 70 yrs. 2 mos. 3 days (born 1845 in Haintin, Lincolnshire, England), son of Joseph Cooke & Jane Ellis. He died within half an hour of apoplexy.  The informant was H. L. McConnell of Port Burwell.

Pte. Frederick Cooke’s name appears on the Town Memorial, Dover, Kent, England.  Three of his brothers also gave their lives in the Great War and are commemorated on the same memorial:  Frank Cooke (Royal Engineers); Harry Cooke (Royal Navy), and Charles Cooke (Royal Navy).

The family is found on the 1901 England census living at 5 St. James Street, Dover, Kent.  The father Charles, 55, is a cab driver’s groom, born in Hainton, Lincolnshire.  The mother Emma, 47, was born in Kingsbrampton, Somerset.  The children, all born in Dover, were as follows: Frank, 20; Arthur, 17; Emma, 15; Alice, 13; Albert Edward, 11; Alma Helena Eva, 9; and Frederick, 3.  Two of the sons above who also died in the war (Harry & Charles) were no doubt already living away from home.

Their daughter Alice Cooke was married on July 6, 1913 in Woodstock to Francis Edward Wood Williams. Alice was 25 years of age and living in Tillsonburg at the time.  She gives her parents names as Charles Cooke & Emma Bale.  This could be the daughter referred to in the article as living in Sparta.

A marriage registration was found for Charles Cooke and Emma Bale in London, England in 1874.

Pte.  Howard Clayton Stevens

108554

Howard Stevens was born in Aylmer on March 7, 1896, the son of Henry J. Stevens & Ethyl B. Stripp.  Henry was a manufacturer in Aylmer.  Henry (son of Nathan H. & Ada J.) was born in Blenheim, Kent County about 1869 and was married on September 27, 1893 in South Dorchester Township, to Ethyl B. Stripp (dau of Thomas H. & Maria), who was born about 1872 in Toronto, but was living in Kingsmill at the time of her marriage.  They were both members of the Disciple church.

The family lived in Aylmer following their marriage, but by 1901 had moved to Chatham where they are found on the census there.  They also had a daughter, Grace, born April 14, 1897.  By 1911 the entire family had moved to Medicine Hat, Alberta, where they are found on the census there.  Another son, Gordon was born in 1907.  Also living with them in 1911 is Ethyl’s mother, Maria Stripp.

Howard enlisted for service on January 12, 1915 in Medicine Hat.  He incorrectly gave his date of birth as September 7, 1896. He lists his next of kin as his father, H. J. Stevens, of 118, 2nd  Street South West, Medicine Hat.  Howard gives his occupation as traveller. He was not married.

Howard was reported missing in action in the Aylmer Express, June 29, 1916:

Word has been received that Howard Stevens, son of H. J. Stevens, now of Medicine Hat, and grandson of N. H. Stevens, of Chatham, is missing.  Howard Stevens was born in Aylmer, and with his parents moved from here to Chatham, where he lived for some years.  He was twenty years of age and was in business with his father in the west when war broke out.  He was recognized as a horseman of more than ordinary ability, and also recognized for his business ability.  He enlisted in the 1st Canadian Mounted Rifles and went to France with the Second Expeditionary Force.  His parents have many friends here who will sympathize with them in the loss of their son, who has heroically given his life for his country.

However, the report of Howard’s death was incorrect when in fact he had been taken prisoner, as reported in the Aylmer Express, July 13, 1916:

FORMER AYLMER BOY PRISONER OF WAR

A couple of weeks ago we published the fact that Howard Stevens, of Medicine Hat, formerly of Aylmer, was among the list of missing.  In writing to an Aylmer friend, Mr. Harry Stevens, his father, says:  

“I appreciate your kind words regarding our boy.  Howard, like the other patriotic boys of our country, felt it his duty to answer the call of his country without Conscription being used.  I am pleased to advise you that we had two post cards from Howard, dated the 5th and 8th of June, from the prison camps in Germany, merely stating that he was a prisoner of war, on each card.”

Howard remained a prisoner of war until his death in 1918,  as reported in the Aylmer Express, December 19, 1918.  Note that the report incorrectly gives his first name as “Harold”:

According to the reports in the daily papers this week, Pte. Harold Stephens, son of Mr and Mrs Harry Stephens, of Chatham, formerly of Aylmer, recently died in Germany, following an operation.  He had also been very ill with an attack of influenza.  Pte. Stephens was taken prisoner by the Germans in 1916, and has been there ever since.  Mr and Mrs Stephens will have the sympathy of their Aylmer friends, in their bereavement.

The Veterans Affairs of Canada website records that Pte. Howard Stevens died on August 15, 1918, at the age of 22.  He served with the 1st Canadian Mounted Rifles, Saskatchewan Regiment, and is buried in Cologne Southern Cemetery in Germany.

Pte. Frank J. Brown

412690

The following report appeared in the Aylmer Express, August 10, 1916:

“The name of Pte. Frank Brown, of Aylmer, appeared in the casualty list last Friday as being killed in action at the Front.  We have been unable to find out who the man is, or if he has relatives or friends here”.

However, he was later identified, and the Aylmer Express of November 2, 1916 records a memorial service held for he and Pte. Prosser:

The 30th Battery attended in a body the Memorial Service held at the Church of Christ last Sunday evening for two Aylmer men who had given up their lives in our defence in France.  The unfortunate men were Pte. Frank Brown, son of Mrs. Spriggs, of this place, and Pte. William Prosser, a brother of Mrs. Ben Hilliker, of this place.  Pte. Prosser leaves his wife and three small children to mourn his loss. Pte. Prosser was a member of the 91st Battalion. Rev. W. G. Charlton, pastor of the church, conducted the interesting service, and referred in feeling terms to the deceased.  He stated that Pte. Brown met his death while endeavoring to bring in a wounded comrade who was lying a few yards in advance of the trench when he was shot down. The speaker thought Pte. Prosser would have done the same thing had the opportunity presented itself.  In closing he stated that the sorrowing ones had the heartfelt sympathy of the community, which was evidenced by the large gathering present.

Frank Brown was born on November 23, 1887 in South Marysborough Township, Prince Edward County, the son of John Brown & Susan Young.  Their address was South Bay Post Office.  John died, and Susan was remarried to Edward Spriggs and had the following children: Percy (1895), Jetty Pearl (1899), Harry Leo (1904), and Bernard (1907).  The family is found on the 1901 census in Belleville, Hastings County, and in 1911 in Napanee, Lennox & Addington County.

Frank cannot be positively identified on either the 1901 or 1911 census.  He is not found with mother and stepfather.  He enlisted for service on February 3, 1915 in Picton, and lists his next of kin as his mother, Mrs. Susan Spriggs, of Aylmer.  He was a sailor and was not married.

Frank died on July 23, 1916 while service with the 21st Battalion of Canadian Infantry, Eastern Ontario Regiment. He is buried in Ridge Wood Military Cemetery, Belgium.

Information could not be found on what became of Frank’s mother Nancy, but his sister Jetty Pearl was married in 1922 to Walter Houghton in Kent County.  She was living in Thamesville at the time, and witnessing the marriage was her father, E. A. Spriggs, also of Thamesville.  It would appear the family left Aylmer sometime after 1916 and moved to Kent County.

Pte. William Harris

105340

The Aylmer Express of August 17, 1916 records a brief notice of the death of William Harris:

“Many Aylmer citizens will remember William Harris, son of the late George Harris, former residents here.  Will enlisted in Regina, and on the 22nd June was killed in France”.

He is also mentioned in an article in the St. Thomas Journal, October 7, 1916 (found at the beginning of this volume), regarding men from Trinity Anglican Church, Aylmer, who were serving in the war.  That article states he was killed in action, and was the son of George Harris, at one time a resident of Aylmer and janitor of the church.

William Anson Harris was born in Aylmer on October 10, 1889, the son of George Harris & Lois Hazell.  George was a painter.  The family is found on the 1891 census in Aylmer (Div. 1, page 6-7).  George was born about 1842 in England, while his wife Lois was born about 1849 in Ontario.  Other children in the family were: Harry (1880); Bertha (1884), and Lois (1886).

Prior to coming to Aylmer, the family was living in Hay Township, Huron County where son George Henry Harris was born on Dec. 13, 1880.  This is undoubtedly “Harry” on the 1891 census.  A sister Bertha was born in Aylmer on March 17, 1883.

The family moved from Aylmer, but cannot be located on either the 1901 or 1911 census. William’s sister, Lois Hazell Harris was married on August 25, 1909 in Emo, Rainy River County to Alfred Henry Matthew.  She was living in Barwick, Ontario at the time which is in the Rainy River District.

William Harris enlisted for service on November 23, 1915 in Regina, Saskatchewan.  His address was 2308 Montreal Street, Regina.  He lists his next of kin as Bertha Harris of Weyburn, Saskatchewan, his sister.  He was a teamster and was not married.

William died on June 30, 1916 while serving with Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry (Eastern Ontario Regiment).  He is buried in Menin Road South Military Cemetery, Belgium.

Lieut. Howard Elliot Scott

Although not from the Aylmer area himself, Elliot Scott’s roots go back several generations in Elgin County through the Davis family, pioneer settlers of Malahide Township.  His great grandparents were William & Mary Davis of lot 2, concession 7 (1851 Malahide census, Div. 2, page 26). They were the parents of Adoniram J. Davis (born 1836; died Sept. 11, 1903), who with his wife Louisa (born 1827; died Feb. 27, 1907) are found on the 1881 Aylmer census (page 20).  They are buried in Orwell cemetery, and were the parents of Minnie Louise Davis (born 1871).  Minnie was married in Aylmer on April 14, 1892 to Arthur H. Scott, a merchant,  residing in Toronto.  They moved to Montreal where their son, Howard Elliot Scott was born on March 31, 1893.

Elliot enlisted for service on August 4, 1915 at Niagara, and gives his next of kin as his father, residing at 286 St. Paul Street, Montreal. Elliot was unmarried, and was a student at law.  He died on September 16, 1916 while serving with the 24th Battalion of Canadian Infantry, Quebec Regiment, at the age of 23.  He is buried in Serre Road Cemetery No. 2, in France.

Notice of his death appeared in the Aylmer Express, October 5, 1916:

Mrs. J. C. Haggan has received a letter from her friend, Mrs. Arthur Scott, of Montreal, stating that her only son, Elliott Scott, was killed in action on Sept. 15.  Deceased, who was 23 years of age, was a McGill graduate, and at the time of enlistment was a student-at-law.  Mrs. Scott will be remembered by many Aylmerites, as Miss Minnie Davis, daughter of the late A. J. Davis.

Pte. Harry Clifford Matthews

112255

Harry Clifford Matthews was born in Tillsonburg on January 23, 1898, the son of Henry James Matthews & Nina Gorden Millard.  They were married in St. Thomas on September 14, 1892.  Henry was born about 1862, and living in Aylmer, a liveryman, the son of Henry & Mary Matthews.  Nina was born1867 in Malahide, but residing in St. Thomas, the daughter of Mathias Millard & Maria Graham.

By 1901, they had left Aylmer and were living in Uxbridge, Ontario on the census.  Henry was still in the livery business there. Besides Harry Clifford, they had a daughter Edith Gladys., born May 4, 1896 in Tillsonburg. They returned shortly after the census to Bayham township, where Henry died on March 8, 1902  from consumption, at the age of 40.  He is buried in his parents’ plot  in Richmond cemetery.  Nina was remarried on July 4, 1916 in London to Thomas Hawkins, and is buried in Exeter Cemetery, in Huron County. She died in 1927.

Harry Clifford Matthews enlisted for service in London on February 12, 1915.  He gives his date of birth as January 22, 1896, although his birth registration states January 23, 1898.  He lists his next of kin as his mother, Nina Matthews, of the Rodney Royal Hotel. He was a student and was not married.

He died on September 16, 1916 at the age of 18, while serving with the 2nd Canadian Mounted Rifles (British Columbia Regiment).  His name appears on the Vimy Memorial in France.

Notice of his death appeared in the Aylmer Express, October 12, 1916:

News has been received of the death of Pte. Clifford Matthews, who was killed in action in France.  He was a son of the late Harry Matthews, for many years a resident of Aylmer.  Pte. Matthews enlisted with the 7th Mounted Rifles in London, where he was living at the time, and was transferred to the 49th after reaching England.  He was born in Bayham township, where he is well known, and was 18 years of age.

Pte. William Arthur Thompson

189532

William Thompson was born in London, England on August 29, 1890, the son of William Thompson & Ellen McGregor.  It is not known when he emigrated to Canada, but he was living in Springfield when he enlisted for service on November 24, 1915.  He was a farmer, and was not married at the time.  He lists his next of kin as his uncle, Charles McGregor, of London, England.

Shortly after enlisting, William was married to Edith Pearl Johnson in Springfield on December 1, 1915.  Edith was 19 years old, a native and resident of Springfield, the daughter of William Johnson & Margaret Taylor.  William gives his occupation as farmer and soldier.

William died on October 8, 1916 at the age of 26 while serving with the 58th Battalion of Canadian Infantry, Central Ontario Regiment.  He is buried in Adanac Military Cemetery, Miraumont, France.

William’s wife, Edith Pearl Johnson was born on May 30, 1897 in South Dorchester Township, to William Wellington Johnson & Margaret (Maggie) Taylor. They are found in the South Dorchester census in 1901 (Div. 3, page 7), and 1911 (Div. 3, page 5), where Edith is incorrectly enumerated as “Ada”.  She had a sister Annie May and a brother Merritt.

William was reported as missing in action in the Aylmer Express, November 2, 1916.  No further reference to him was reported in that newspaper.

William’s death was reported in the St. Thomas Journal, November 27, 1916:

FOUR SOLDIERS OF DISTRICT IN CASUALTY LIST

Pte. W. A. Thompson Killed – Ptes. Goddard, Knight and Burtch Wounded

Another lot of official messages from the Canadian war department at Ottawa, which are always more or less expected and always feared by those who have friends in the firing lines, was received over the weekend.  One has been reported killed in action and three others have been reported wounded.  Pte. William Arthur Thompson is the last to lay down his life for the cause of the empire and the wounded are Pte. J. E. Goddard, Pte. William Henry Knight, and Pte. James Albert Burtch.  Pte. Thompson (189532) was reported several weeks ago as missing from his unit, and is now officially listed as killed.  He came here with his wife from near Springfield and enlisted for service with the 91st Battalion, November 24, 1915. He was attached to C Company of that unit when it left this city.  They lived for a short time at 37 Redan street and boarded for awhile at 21 Jesse street. At the time Pte. Thompson was reported missing from the ranks his wife could not be found here but it was believed by those who knew her that she was at the time in Detroit.  According to the message received here, Pte. Thompson met his death on the field of battle October 8.

Pte. Frederick Rameses Wilson

440053

The Aylmer Express of November 23, 1916 reported the death of Fred Wilson:

Another former Aylmerite has paid the supreme sacrifice. This time it is Fred. Wilson, who some years ago was in the employ of Mr. Joseph Davis here.  Private Wilson came to Canada nine years ago, and on the outbreak of war joined the 53rd Battalion, and was transferred to the Canadian Highlanders.  He was 30 years of age, and leaves a wife in England.  He was a noted football player in the Mother country and was a son of the late Captain Wilson, Prospect-Grove, Gravesend.

Frederick’s residence in Aylmer was likely prior to 1911, as he is found on that census in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan with his wife Frances (born March 1883 in England) and daughter Elsie (born June 1909 in Ontario).  His occupation is bricklayer.  According to the census, Frederick emigrated to Canada in 1907, while his wife came in 1908.

They were married in Aylmer on June 3, 1908, where both were residing.  Fred was the son of William Wilson & Adelaide Pont.  Frances was born in Swanscombe, England, the daughter of James Moore & Emily Joel.

An account of their marriage appeared in the Aylmer Express, June 11, 1908:

At the home of Mrs. Chas. Smith, Talbot St. West was the scene of a pretty but quiet event on Wednesday June 3rd, when Miss Francis Moore of Swanscombe, England was united in marriage to Mr. Frederic Wilson of Gravesend, England, only the immediate friends of the contracting parties being present. The ceremony was performed at 1 p.m. by Rev. Mr. McDonald. Miss Annie Smith acting as bride’s maid and little Beatrice Smith who was dressed in white made a charming ringbearer.  The groom was supported by Mr. Bain Hoffman, of Brownsville. The bride was exquisitely gowned in cream delaine trimmed with cream silk lace and carried a charming bouquet of white carnations and white roses. The bridesmaid was tastefully dressed in white and also carried roses and carnations. At the close of the ceremony the guest partook of a dainty repast, after which the young couple left for east on the 3:20 train. The bride’s travelling dress was nay blue with hat to match. The bride received many useful presents.  The bride presented the maid and ring bearer with pretty gold pins.

Frederick enlisted for service on March 25, 1915 in Saskatchewan.  He was born November 23, 1888 in Gravesend, England.  He lists his wife as his next of kin, with an address of Box 402, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan.  This address was struck out on the form and replaced with 3 Prospect Grove, Milton Rd., Gravesend, Kent, England.  It is presumed that his wife moved back to England following Frederick’s enlistment, possibly to reside with his parents.

Information found in the Veterans Affairs of Canada records indicate that Frances was remarried to a Mr. Boynton and was living in Hawkestone, Ontario, which is in Oro Township, Simcoe County.

Frederick died on August 16, 1916 at the age of 30, while serving with the 42nd Battalion of Canadian Infantry, Quebec Regiment.  His name appears on the Vimy Memorial in France.

Frederick is found on the 1901 England census in Gravesend, Parish of Milton, Kent, living at 61 Milton Road with his mother Adelaide, and siblings Beatrice, Rupert, William, Harold & Adeline.  He is enumerated under his middle name “Rameses”.

The Joseph Davis referred to in the newspaper who employed Frederick Wilson is found on the 1911 census in Aylmer.  He was a contractor.

Pte. Albert Barker

190262

The Aylmer Express of November 23, 1916 reports the death of Albert:

Mrs. James Berdan, of Lyons, received a telegram from Ottawa last Thursday officially announcing the death of Pte. Albert Parker, who died of wounds received in action on Nov. 3.  Pte. Parker was born in England, but had resided in Lyons for the past ten years with the exception of three years spent in the Northwest.  He has relatives living, but always made his home at James Berdan’s.

The above James Berdan is found in the 1911 South Dorchester census, but Albert is not enumerated with them.

The Aylmer Express incorrectly gave Albert’s surname as “Parker”, when it was actually “Barker”.  Albert Barker’s name is included in the list of recruits for the 91st Battalion, printed in the Aylmer Express, April 13, 1916. 

Albert Barker was born in London, England on February 25, 1880.  His parents’ names are unknown, and it is possible that he was an orphan sent to Canada as part of the Home Children immigration.  The records of the National Archives of Canada show an Albert A. Barker, age 17, arriving in Canada on March 14, 1896 on the ship, S.S. Vancouver.  This record may refer to the above young man.

Albert enlisted for service on April 14, 1916 in St. Thomas at the age of 36.  He gives his address as R.R. #2 Lyons.  He was a labourer and was not married.  He listed no next of kin.

Albert died on November 3, 1916 while serving with the 73rd Battalion of Canadian Infantry, Quebec Regiment.  He is buried in Albert Communal Cemetery Extension, Somme, France.

It is possible that the “E. Barker” found on the Aylmer Cenotaph refers to Albert.

Pte. Arthur John Gunn

124744

The Aylmer Express of December 21, 1916, reports the death of Arthur Gunn:

Mrs. E. Sanders, Talbot street west, received word last week that her grandson, Pte. Arthur John Gunn, had been killed in action in France.  Pte. Gunn, who is a son of Mrs. Elizabeth Gunn, London, Ont., enlisted in London with the 70th Battalion last April.  He was born in Wyoming and spent the early part of his life there, later moving with his parents to London.  He was wounded on September 15th, and his mother received word of this on October 14th.  The news received last week of his death, was the first that had been heard of him since October.  He was unmarried and his only brother lives in Ottawa.

Arthur was born in Wyoming, Lambton County on May 29, 1895, the son of John Michael Gunn & Elizabeth Euterpa Sanders.  His parents were married in Malahide on October 14, 1885.  His father was born in Florence, Ontario (Lambton Co.), but was living in Kerwood.  He was a minister in the Church of England.  Elizabeth Sanders was living in Malahide, the daughter of Rev. Thomas Exmouth Sanders & Agnes Nancy Barber.  Thomas was a native of Bath, England, while Nancy was born in Co. Cork, Ireland.  They are buried in the Old English Church cemetery, St. Thomas.

Arthur enlisted for service on April 19, 1916 in London.  He was living with his mother, at 10 St. George Street.  His occupation was trainman.

Arthur died on September 15, 1916 at the age of 21 while serving with the 5th Canadian Mounted Rifles, Quebec regiment.  His name appears on the Vimy Memorial in France.

The 1911 Aylmer census shows his grandmother, Agnes N. Sanders, a widow age 79.

Pte. Donald MacDonald

123779

The Aylmer Express of March 22, 1917 reported the death of Donald:

Word was recently received announcing that Donald McDonald, a young Scotchman, who made his home prior to enlisting in the 91st Battalion, with Mr. John Trim, Dingle street, was killed in action in France on Feb. 15th.  He was wounded during the battle and was picked up by the stretcher bearers, who were fired on by the Germans and McDonald was again shot and killed.  He came to Aylmer in March 1915, having walked every step of the way from Anderson, Indiana.  He was picked up on Aylmer’s streets by Mr. Trim, who took him home and fed and clothed him, and with whom he lived till enlisting in September.

Donald MacDonald was born in Glasgow, Scotland on November 9, 1894, the son of Malcolm & Christena MacDonald, of 51 Balfour Street, Mary Hill, Glasgow.  He enlisted for service on September 18, 1915 in Aylmer.  He gives his occupation as farmer, and his mother as his next of kin.  He was not married.

Donald died on February 16, 1917 while serving with the 21st Battalion of Canadian Infantry, Eastern Ontario Regiment, at the age of 24.  He is buried in Ecoivres Military cemetery, France.

The family is found on the 1901 Scotland census at 51 Balfour Street, Maryhill Parish, Glasgow, Lanarkshire.  Donald’s parents, Malcolm (age 43), and Christina (age 41), were both natives of Lochs, Rossshire.  Other children in the family were: Roderick (age 15), Christina (age 14), Kenneth (age 12), John (age 10), and Murdock (age 2).  The census indicates that all of the children (including Donald) except Murdock were born in Lochs, Rossshire.

Pte. James Maxwell Ransome

812219

The Aylmer Express of April 19, 1917 reported the following regarding James Ransome:

“Mr. W. W. Ransom received a telegram this week, announcing that his son, Pte. J. M. Ransom, has been missing since March 15th. Pte. Ransom enlisted with the 138th Batt., at Calgary, and his father thinks he surely must have been taken prisoner”.

James Maxwell Ransome was born on November 12, 1895 in Otterville Centre, Oxford County, the son of William W. Ransome & Sarah A. Kelly, who were married on May 20, 1885 in Cornell, Oxford County. William was born about 1863 in South Norwich Township, Oxford County, the son of James & Henrietta Ransome.  Sarah Kelly was born about 1864 in Burford Township, Oxford County, the daughter of Edward & Adeline.  Both were living in South Norwich Township at the time of marriage.  Sarah died at lot 7, concession 12, South Norwich on May 10, 1903 at the age of 39.

The family is found on the 1901 census in South Norwich Township.  William was a farmer, and besides James, had two other children: Harry Wray (born 1889), and Adeline (born 1900).

Neither William nor James can be found on the 1911 census, but at least William must have moved to Aylmer prior to 1917.  It is not known how long he resided in the Aylmer area.

James moved to Calgary where he was living at 1435 15th Street East when he enlisted on July 8, 1916.  He lists his next of kin as “Rae” Ransome, his brother, a conductor with C.P.R., living at the same address.  James’ occupation was a clerk.  He was not married.

James died on March 16, 1917 while serving with the 47th Battalion of Canadian Infantry, British Columbia Regiment. His name appears on the Vimy Memorial in France.

Corporal Cornelius Victor Phillips

123439  Cornelius Phillips

The Aylmer Express of April 26, 1917 reported the death of Victor Phillips:

Wm. Deo, of this place, was notified on Tuesday of the death of his nephew, Victor Phillips, of St. Thomas, who was killed in action on April 4th.  Deceased is a son of Mr. E. S. Phillips, a former Aylmer photographer, and a brother of Mrs. Norton, of this place.

Cornelius Victor Phillips was born in St. Thomas on January 19, 1886, the son of Elisha S. Phillips & Hannah Maria Deo, who were married on January 1, 1872 in Bayham Township.  Elisah was born in February 1843 in Carleton County, New Brunswick, the son of Cornelius Phillips & Fanny Stephens.  He was residing in Yarmouth Township at the time of his marriage and was a boot & shoemaker.  Hannah Maria Deo was born about 1851, the daughter of William & Sarah Deo, and was also living in Yarmouth when she was married.  

The family is found on the 1891 census in Aylmer (Div. 1, page 12), where Elisha is listed as a photographer.  He later moved to St. Thomas where he is found on the 1901 and 1911 census, at 96 Gladstone Ave., a painter.  Other children in the family were Hannah May (born 1877) and Fleda  Faye (born 1895).  Birth registrations were found for three other daughters: Fanny Roberta (1874); Ethel (1872), and Ella (1879).

Cornelius Victor Phillips enlisted for service on September 10, 1915 in St. Thomas. He lists his next of kin as his father, E. S. Phillips, of 96 Gladstone Ave.  He was a clerk, and was not married.  

He died on April 4, 1917 at the age of 31, while serving with the 2nd Battalion of Canadian Infantry, Eastern Ontario Regiment.  He is buried in Ecoivres Military Cemetery in France.

His sister Hannah May was married to Raymond C. Norton on June 24, 1902 in St. Thomas, and is the Mrs. Norton mentioned in the death notice.  

Elisha Shaw Phillips died at 96 Gladstone Ave., St. Thomas on May 3, 1924.  His widow, Hannah Maria died on August 6, 1927.  They are buried in St. Thomas Cemetery, but there is no marker.

A story following Victor’s death appeared in the St. Thomas Daily Times, April 24, 1917:

CORP. VICTOR PHILLIPS A SOLDIER LIKE FOREFATHERS

“Although he now rests beneath the sod in France, and I will never see him in this world again, I am glad to know that he died a soldier, like his forefathers, and that he showed the true spirit of patriotism, and I would far rather know that he lies beneath the green grass in France than to think he should be a slacker on the streets of St. Thomas”, declared Elijah S. Phillips, who is himself a veteran of the Fenian Raids, when he was met by a Times reporter on Tuesday afternoon, and after he had just received a message advising him that his son, Corp. Cornelius Victor Phillips had been listed among the killed in action.

Corp. Phillips comes of a most loyal family, every male member for the past seven generations having been attached to some regiment or other.  His grandfather, C. A. Phillips,  was also engaged in the revolution on the British side in 1836, and his great great grandfather was Colonel Richard Lawrence, and was in the revolution in New Brunswick and after the war was given a plot of land on which the city of Fredericton now stands.

Corp. Phillips was one of St. Thomas’ best known young men. Prior to enlisting in “A” company, of the 91st, he was employed in the store department of the Pere Marquette.  He was unmarried and was 31 years of age.  When he enlisted he soon won the rank of corporal, and his father asked Major Stacey to keep an eye on him. “Not for the sake of promotion”, declared the father today, “but”, but said, with tears trickling down his face, “in order that I might see what there is in blood inheritance and I wanted to see what he was made of”.  On leaving for France it was found necessary for him to give up his stripes, but he soon won them back again on his arrival there, and at the time of his death he was a corporal.  The message received stated that he was killed in action on April 4 last. He enlisted in September 1915, left St. Thomas in the following July, and arrived in France on the following September, just one year after he had enlisted.

Another article following Victor’s death, accompanied by a photograph, appeared in the St. Thomas Daily Times, April 26, 1917, with the following caption:

THOMAS MAN MAKES THE SUPREME SACRIFICE

Corporal C. V. Phillips, son of Mr and Mrs E. S. Phillips, 96 Gladstone avenue, who was reported on Tuesday as having been killed in action on April 4 at Vimy Ridge.  Corp. Phillips, who was a well-known and popular young man, was formerly employed in the stores department of the Pere Marquette.  His forefathers as far back as his great great grandfather, have been soldiers. He went overseas with the 91st Battalion.  The following verses were written by Corp. Phillips on Oct. 23, 1916, and sent to his parents, Mr and Mrs E. S. Phillips, 96 Gladstone avenue, who now send them for publication in The Times, in the hope that it may be the means of more letter writing to the heroes at the front:

Mail Up!

I’m sitting in my billet, resting up a bit, 

The whole platoon the same – ‘round the fire we’ve lit;

We’re waiting for our rations before we hit the hay,

When the corporal comes in smiling, “Cheer up!, Mail today”

And every busy soldier stops what he’s about,

Those who’ve gone to bed, you bet they tumble out,

And everyone is eager and hoping mighty hard

That they’ll get a letter, a parcel, or a card.

“Here’s one for Wilson, and Harding, “his napoo”

McCarthy, back in blighty. Here, Sergeant, one for you;

Donovan, James and Lewis – there isn’t any more”

Some guys get none at all – some get three or four.

But as each one reads his letter, he shoves along the news,

Things of general interest – how his baby’s wearing shoes;

Any little information from the land we’ve left behind

Bits from wife or mother – I tell you, that’s the kind

We hear the umpty-umptys have started overseas

We’re even interested in rise in price of cheese;

If you at home could hear us quoting letters that we’ve got

I’m sure you’d write a little more, You could as well as not.”

A letter from one of Victor’s comrades was printed in the St. Thomas Daily Times, May 14, 1917, concerning his death:

VIC PHILLIPS’ LAST ACT WAS ONE OF KINDNESS

Letter From Front Tells of Thoughtfulness of St. Thomas Corporal and of His Death

Soon Afterwards

The Times is in receipt of the following letter, written by Pte. George C. Faatz, formerly of the 91st Battalion, now with the 2nd Battalion in France, with reference to the death of Corporal Victor Phillips, son of Mr and Mrs E. S. Phillips, Gladstone avenue, St. Thomas.

“I am writing this short letter to you from the trenches to let you know that one of the last things done by Corp. Vic. Phillips (91st Battalion) was an act of kindness.  Not very long before Vic [two words illegible], more men were killed by a big shell entering their dugout, one of his men wash it and badly cut up by shrapnel.  A call was sent for the stretcher-bearers, but Vic was there ahead of them, cut off the wounded man’s coat and bandaged him up. He then took off his own tunic and sweater, wrapped them around the wounded man, and in his undershirt and a cold rain blowing hard, he helped to carry him far back to the dressing station.  It was hard to see him get it later on.  He always thought more of his men than himself. In Vic we lost a game man and a friend”.

Pte.  Frank Milton Ball

401680

The Aylmer Express of April 26, 1917 contains the following article and letter regarding the death of Pte. Frank Ball:

FRANK M. BALL PAYS SUPREME SACRIFICE

Nephew of Robt. Sweet and H. L. Stratton of this place

Was Wounded and Died in Hospital

Mrs. John Garland, of Simcoe, has received the following letter from Miss R. M. Jackson, staff nurse at a hospital in England, concerning the death of Frank M. Ball, who gave his life for the defence of the Empire.  Pte. Ball’s father was killed at Pt. Burwell when the government first began work on the harbor there, and his brother went down with the Bessemer in Lake Erie in 1913.

Co. of London War Hospital, Eppson, Surrey March 26, 1916

Dear Madam:
It is with great regret that I write to you of the death of your laddie, Frank H. Ball.  He passed away on the 21st of March at noon.  He has suffered much, and I felt so sorry that you and all his dear ones were unable to be near him.  He was constantly asking if the mail was in, and two letters came after he was unable to understand what was in them.  One was put in among his belongings and I re-addressed to the sender’s address.  He was very patient always and liked to help himself as much as possible. He never gave us a bit of trouble in any way, poor laddie.  You will be comforted to know that the Wesleyan minister, Rev. F. E. England was with him on the night before he died, and said his mind and soul were prepared for his change from this life to that which lies beyond.  He was buried today in the regimental cemetery, with military honours.  The Canadian boys from the convalescent camp formed a firing party at the graveside.  The Canadian boys in the hospital sent a beautiful floral emblem in the form of a maple leaf and the Imperial boys, and nursing staff of the ward sent a beautiful wreath of white flowers, violets, ivy and maple leaves.  A Canadian sergeant in ward 14 had arranged to take photos of the flowers and burial, and we hope to send you copies of them.  One Canadian says that if he reaches Canada in safety, will come and see you and tell you all he can.  The letters, a well worn soft leather testament, and other belongings, have been handed in to the authorities and will hope to reach you in due course.  My heart goes with you in deep sympathy.  My own dear brother of about the same age, was killed in France, and another is out there still.  May God comfort you and enable you to cast your burden on the Lord, for he careth for you.
Yours in sincere sympathy,

M. Jackson, Staff Nurse, Ward 14

Frank Ball was born in Kinglake, Houghton Township, Norfolk County on October 2, 1897, the son of John M. Ball & Mary Alfretta Stratton.  John was a farmer and the family is found on the 1901 census is Houghton Township.  Other children in the family were: Thomas (1886); Philo J. (1889), Earl L. (1892); Vernon H. (1895), and Margery (1899).

The connection to Elgin County is through Frank’s mother.  Mary was born in Bayham Township about 1865, the daughter of Thomas Stratton & Annie Sweet.  Following the death of her husband John Ball, she was married in Simcoe on May 17, 1907 to John Franklin Garland.  She was living in Simcoe at the time.

Frank Ball is found on the 1911 census in Bayham township (Div. 4, page 3), living with his maternal grandparents Thomas & Anna Stratton.  He enlisted for service on September 3, 1915 in St. Thomas.  He was a labourer and was single.  He was assigned to the 70th Battalion, but a notation states he was transferred to the 33rd Battalion.

He died on March 21, 1917 at the age of 19, while serving with the 58th Battalion of Canadian Infantry, Central Ontario Regiment.  He is buried in Epsom Cemetery, Surrey, England.

The same letter written by Staff Nurse R. M. Jackson was printed in the Tillsonburg Observer, May 3, 1917, but with additional information in the introduction:

“Mrs. Thos. Stratton of Guysbro recently received from a nurse in an English hospital a letter informing her of the death of her grandson, Pte. Frank M. Ball. The young man’s mother was Mrs. Stratton’s adopted daughter.  His father, John Ball, was accidentally killed some years ago at Port Burwell while working on the harbor, being crushed by a stone, and his brother went down with the car ferry Bessemer in Lake Erie in 1913. His mother lives in Simcoe, being now Mrs. John Garland.”

Pte. Christopher Southgate

421518

The  Aylmer Express of May 17, 1917 contains the following announcement of Christopher’s death:

Word has been received that Christopher Southgate, a former resident of Malahide has been killed in action.  Mr. Southgate worked for Mr. Wilson Bearss for some time, but enlisted in Australia.

Christopher does not appear in the Wilson Bearss household on the 1911 Malahide census, so it is possible he had already left the area by that time, or did not come to Malahide until after 1911.  He is found in records of immigrant “Home Children”, arriving in Quebec on May 27, 1905 from Fagan’s Homes, London, England, at the age of 14.  His destination was Toronto.

Christopher is found on the 1901 England census in Peckham, Camberwell, London, the son of George Southgate, a widower, age 50, born in Colchester, Essex. Christopher was ten years old, and was born in Peckham, London.  He had a sister, Lydia, age 13.  They were living at 68 Victoria Road, Camberwell.

According to the article in the Aylmer Express, Christopher enlisted in Australia, so an Attestation Paper in Canadian records could not be located.  The Commonwealth War Graves Commission records show the death of a Pte. C. W. Southgate on April 19, 1917; service number 421518.  He was serving with a London Regiment, United Kingdom.  He is buried in Gaza War Cemetery.

Driver Clinton Charles Edward Thomson

310629  Clinton Thomson

Clinton Thomson’s death was reported in the Aylmer Express, May 17, 1917:

Just as we were going to press last week, news was received announcing the death of Gunner Clinton E. Thompson, killed in action, which was briefly reported last week.  Gunner Thompson was a graduate of the Aylmer High School and lived here for a number of years.  He was principal of Scott street public school, St. Thomas, when he enlisted.  He was a popular member of St. Thomas Lodge No. 44 A.F. & A.M.  One of his brothers, Gunner Bert Thompson, just landed in England last week with a draft from the 63rd Battery, London, Ont.

The St. Thomas Journal, May 9, 1917, also reported Clinton’s death:

FORMER PRINCIPAL OF SCOTT ST. SCHOOL IS KILLED IN ACTION

Gunner Clinton Thompson, formerly principal of Scott Street school, was killed in action, April 29th, according to word received Wednesday afternoon by Mrs. Geo. L. Grey, 7 Farley Place.  Mr. Thompson enlisted a year ago last January with a battery at Kingston and has been in the trenches for many months.  Pte. Thompson enlisted while he was principal of Scott street school.  He is originally from Aylmer where one brother still resides.

A photo and accompanying article was printed in the St. Thomas Journal, May 10, 1917:

POPULAR PRINCIPAL OF SCOTT ST. SCHOOL DIES FOR THE CAUSE

Gunner Clinton E. Thompson, former principal of Scott Street public school, St. Thomas, who is reported killed in action.  Gunner Thompson was one of the city’s finest young men and had a large circle of friends who will deeply mourn his death.  He was a graduate of the Aylmer Collegiate Institute and lived in that town for some years.  He was a popular member of the St. Thomas Tennis Club, and of St. Thomas Lodge, No. 44, A.F. & A.M. One of his brothers, Bert Thompson, is also in khaki.

Another article, also with Clinton’s photograph, was printed in the St. Thomas Journal, June 29, 1917:

HONORED IN DEATH

Gunner C. C. E. Thompson, principal of Scott Street School, September 1912 to April 1917

Gunner Clinton C. E. Thompson was born near Aylmer, Ont., in 1888, and was educated at Aylmer High School. He chose as his life work the profession of teaching. In this he achieved well-merited distinction.  Prior to his being engaged as principal of Scott Street School, he taught in Cardinal and Cornwall. He was identified with Scott Street School from September 1912 until his enlistment, January 1916.  He joined the 34th Canadian Field Artillery, stationed at Kingston, Ont., with the military number of 310629.  After a brief training, the battery was transferred to England, where it was broken up into several units.  Gunner Thompson was now identified with the 33rd Battery, and was transferred to France. He was killed in action at Arleux, April 29, 1917.

A eulogy  by a member of the school board for Gunner Thomson was printed in the Aylmer Express, May 31, 1917:

EULOGY OF GUNNER CLINTON THOMPSON

By Inspector J. A. Taylor

Words fail to express the sense of the loss which we feel is ours by reason of the tidings from the front that Mr. Thompson, the late principal of Scott street school, had made the supreme sacrifice.  It is most fitting that we record on the annals of this board our high sense of the loss that has come to the educational life of this city and that we place amidst the scene of his school activities a memorial tablet that will be a perpetual reminder to the pupils as they come and go that may live in deeds not in years, and that life alone is eternal and immortal which has in it the elements of honor, duty and self-sacrifice.  Mr. Thompson needs no monument to rescue his name from oblivion.  By the nobility of his life and the vicarious character of his death he has won immortality. After life’s fitful fever he sleeps well.  He was one of the board’s most faithful principals and teachers. Under his strong organizing power and wise administration, coupled with a high sense of duty and obligation to the board he soon made Scott street school one of the best in the city. Distinctions too, from time to time came to his school. He was encouraged and rewarded by having premier honors at both the entrance examinations and the essay contests conferred upon his pupils. That great confidence in his judgement and found him a wise counselor and faithful administrator.  He hated war, but felt it his duty to wear the king’s uniform to help truth, justice and liberty survive this awful cataclysm and be the heritage of prosperity.  He who loseth his life shall save it.  On behalf of his fellow teachers, the best traditions of whose profession he maintained, and on behalf of his pupils, who will see him no more, I pass this eulogy on his life and pay this tribute to his memory.  He is not dead. Brave souls never die. Tonight he sleeps in one of the many graves in far off France, with the whistling of bullets, the roaring of cannon and the shrieking shrapnel chanting his glorious requiem.  His life, his courage, his bravery and his sacrifice are the asset of the race and the legacy of prosperity.  By his heroism and his sacrifice he has glorified or city and ennobled humanity. The little mound and the simple cross, which surmounts it, proclaim the immortality of the cause for which we surrendered him, and tho eternal verities through which we hope to gain immortality.  He was one of the torch bearers that will light the feet of the generations yet to come.  “They never die who die in a great cause; the block may soak their gore, their heads may sodden in the sun; they but augment that sweeping stream that leads the world at last to freedom”.

Clinton Charles Edward Thomson’s birth registration states he was born in Bayham on July 1, 1887, the son of Thomas Thomson & Rosena Jane Ringe.  However, he states he was born in Aylmer on his attestation paper.  In all probability, Bayham is correct as his place of birth, since the family is found there on the 1881 census (Div. 1, page 58), and also in 1901 (Div. 1, page 5), where Clinton is living with his widowed mother and siblings.

Clinton’s father Thomas Thomson was born in Forfarshire, Scotland in 1827, and was a farmer in Bayham Township.  He died at the age of 52 years on September 7, 1889 in Bayham.  Clinton’s mother, Rosina was born in London, England on Dec. 18, 1847, the daughter of Peter Ringe & Elizabeth Jones. She died in Chicago, Illinois on January 11, 1913 at the age of 64.  She was no doubt living there with one of her children, but her death was registered in Aylmer.  Thomas & Rosina are buried in Aylmer cemetery.  Clinton’s name also appears on the monument.  Buried in the plot are Clinton’s sister Alice Robbins (1878 – 1967), and a brother, Robert G. Thomson (1876 – 1956).

Clinton’s siblings were: Janet (born 1870); Thomas C. (Born 1872); Eliza (born 1874); Albert (Robert) G. (Born 1876); Alice M. (Born 1878), Jessie Evelyn (Born 1881); Cornelia Rose (born 1883); David Jonathan (born 1884); and Morris Arthur (born 1888).  A sister Harriet is mentioned in another article from the Aylmer Express, given below, but she does not appear with the family in the census, unless she is one of the above sisters by a different name.

Clinton became a school teacher and is found on the 1911 census in the village of Cardinal, Grenville County, where he is boarding as a teacher, with Peter & Margaret Adams on William Street. He later returned to Elgin County and was on staff at the Scott Street Public School and later principal.

He enlisted for service on December 30, 1915 in Kingston.  He gives his occupation as school principal, and was single.  His next of kin was his sister, Mrs. Alice Robbins of 161 Gladstone Ave., Windsor.

Clinton died on April 29, 1917 at the age of 29 while serving with the 9th Bridage of Canadian Field Artillery.  He is buried in Ecoivres Military Cemetery, France.

His name appears in the Roll of Honour – Ontario Teachers, 1914 – 1918, with the following information: Clinton C. E. Thomson, St. Thomas; 2nd Class Certificate, Teacher, Scott Street, St. Thomas; enlisted Dec. 30, 1915; Driver, 33rd Battery, C.F.A., served in France; killed Arleux, April 29, 1917.

A letter from one of Clinton’s comrades giving details of his death was printed in the Aylmer Express, June 24, 1917:

GUNNER CLINTON THOMPSON WAS KILLED AT HIS POST

His Comrade Sends Details of his Death to his sister here.

On Active Service, April 30, 1917

My Dear Miss Harriet Thompson:
I wish to give you in detail in my rather abrupt way, the last few incidents of a real live soldier.  My friend, Tommy, for Tommy is what we called him, was one of the six gunners of “B” sub of the battery.  Tommy and I have been gunners in the same “sub” ever since we joined the army. We had worked together, ate, slept, fought and dodged many a German shell together, and I must say in all my experience I’ve never met a better soldier than Tommy.  He often settled arguments among the rest of sub “B” crew.  Being well, read, a little older, he had it over us in world wide experience and was well liked by all.  On Sunday April 29, we were firing under terrible shell fire – the ground in places was fairly heaving – the air hot with pieces of shrapnel.  Houses intact were going up in front of our eyes, trees blown up – German trenches, which we had recently captured were being flattened.  At 5:30 in the afternoon, Gunner Keachie of C sub, rolled off his seat at the gun, hit in the head.  Tommy, myself and five others were detailed to carry the fallen gunner to the nearest dressing station, which was up the road about a quarter of a mile.  I could give you the name of the place we were in and the road, but am sorry the censor will not allow it.  I can tell you it was a desperate piece of road at any moment I expected we would be wiped out or completely blown off the road, on either side lay dead horses, broken timbers and bits of wheels along the road.  I remarked to Tommy on the seriousness of our comrade’s wound and Tommy remarked, “One can never tell who will be next”.  After leaving our old “34″ wounded in the care of the doctor, we took for the road.  On our way back, I ran across an old red cross stretcher and knowing that the battery was without one, I says to Tommy, “I think I’ll bring it along with me, we may need it”.  “Never mind it Alf, we won’t need it”, says he, but remembering the hard position that we were in, I brought it along, little thinking in a very few minutes who was to be lying on it.  We arrived back at the guns, the gunners were ordered to stop firing, the shells were coming heavy.  It was now close on to 7 p.m.  A huge shell fell a few yards from Tommy, a piece of it caught him back of the ear, and poor Tommy dropped on his face, dead to the ground. We found [him] with his pipe still in his mouth and lighted.  He was carried away on the said stretcher in the wee small hours of Monday morning, back to a quiet town, where we gave him a good burial.  We had a rather busy night and we miss Tommy from his crew. In deep regret I write this sad news.
Gunner Alf. J. Burke, One of the crew of “B” sub gun.

Notice of Mrs. Thompson’s death appeared in the Aylmer Express, January 23, 1913:

The many friends all through this section of Mrs. R. J. Thompson were very sorry to learn of her death in Chicago on the 11th inst, from the effects of a stroke of paralysis. She was in her 64th year and for many years was one of the most esteemed residents of this county.  Five sons and five daughters mourn her loss, viz: Thomas, of Pt. Burwell; Bert, of Aylmer; David of Brandon; Clinton, of St. Thomas; Morris, of Windsor; Mrs. F. Winters, Harriet, Jessie, Cornelia, of Chicago; and Mrs. H. Robins, of Vienna.  The remains were interred in Chicago for the time being, but will be brought back here.

In the Aylmer Express, March 27, 1913, Mrs. Thompson’s burial in Aylmer is recorded:

The remains of Mrs. Thompson, who died in Chicago some three months ago, were brought to Aylmer for interment last Sunday. Deceased will be remembered as living on the Timpany farm on Talbot st., a few years ago, her sons working that farm for two years.

Sgt. Charles Bruce Crawford

440467  Charles Bruce Crawford

Announcement of Charles’ death was reported in the South Dorchester news column in the Aylmer Express, May 24, 1917:

David Crawford received word of the death of his brother, Charlie, who was killed in action in France. He enlisted in the west, but was well-known around here, having worked for J. M. Cline at Mapleton before going west.

An almost identical article was published in the St. Thomas Journal, May 23, 1917:

DAVID CRAWFORD HEARS OF HIS BROTHER’S DEATH

South Dorchester, May 23 – David Crawford received the sad news that his brother, Charles, was killed in action in France. Charlie enlisted in the west, but was well known around here, having worked for J. Cline at Mapleton, before going to the northwest.

Charles Crawford was born in Fraserburg, Scotland on April 7, 1890, the son of George Crawford & Elizabeth Bruce.  He emigrated to Canada with his parents in 1911, where they are found on the 1911 census in Belmont, living with a daughter Marguerite Taylor and her husband William, who had emigrated earlier in 1903.  Also in the family is a son Archibald Crawford, born 1893.

George Crawford was born in Aberdeenshire, Scotland on November 16, 1852, the son of George Crawford & Mary Hepburn.  He died on May 8, 1930 at lot 1, concession 7, Westminster Township (Belmont) at the age of 77 years.  His wife Elizabeth Bruce, predeceased him by a few months, dying on December 28, 1929 in Belmont at the age of 77 years.  She was born in Scotland on August 27, 1852, the daughter of David Bruce & Elizabeth Wright.  George & Elizabeth are buried in Dorchester Union cemetery.

Charles Crawford enlisted for service on December 22, 1914 in Prince Albert.  He was a labourer and was not married.  He had previous military experience, serving with the 52nd Regiment for 18 months.

Charles died on April 28, 1917 at the age of 27 while serving with the 8th Battalion, “A” Company, of Canadian Infantry, Manitoba Regiment. He is buried in Orchard Dump Cemetery, France.

Pte. Mark St. Clair Johnston

784913

The Aylmer Express of January 3, 1918 contained the following article:

A few weeks ago we made the announcement of the death of a former popular Aylmer young man, M. S. Johnson, better known here as “Stoney”, who was killed in action in France on November 17th last.  Stoney was a member of the Royal Bank staff here for some months, and made many warm friends who deeply regret his untimely end, which occurred in such a glorious way in the service of his country.  His battalion was in the front line trench, and was about to be attacked by the Germans.  It looked as if the Canadians were not strong enough to withstand the attack and the officer commanding called for a volunteer to go back through the barrage of fire being placed directly behind them by the German artillery and get reinforcements.  Stoney volunteered to go and was successful in getting back, but on returning to join his battalion he was hit and almost instantly killed in getting through the German fire.  He was instrumental however, in securing reinforcements which saved the lives of hundreds of his comrades.  His parents live at Winona, Ont.

Mark St. Clair Johnston was born in Toronto on May 29, 1894, the son of William B. Johnston.  He enlisted for service at Stoney Creek, Ontario on February 11, 1916.  He was a bank clerk and was not married.  He died on November 17, 1917 while serving with Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry, Eastern Ontario Regiment.  He is buried at Passchendale New British Cemetery, Belgium.

Lieutenant Frank McConnell, Jr.

The Aylmer Express of August 15, 1918 reports the following death:

The message has just arrived that the eldest son of Frank McConnell, Lieut. F. McConnell (Pete), was killed in action in France on July 25th.  He was a grandson of the late William McConnell.

Although Lieut. McConnell did not live in this area, his roots were in Malahide and had a host of relatives here.  He was a son of Frank McConnell, born April 1868 in Malahide.  Frank was the son of William McConnell (1818 – 1909) & his wife Philena Hunt Palmer (1823 – 1909).  William & Philena were both born in Nova Scotia, and lived at lot 34, concession 1 Malahide.  They are found on the Malahide census in 1861 (page 14), and 1871 (Div. 1, page 3).  William sold the farm about 1871 and moved to Toronto where they are found on the 1881 census there with their sons William and Frank.  In 1893, they moved to Queens, New York where they are found on the 1900 census.  By this time, son Frank was married to Lila, and they had one son Frank McConnell Jr. (born September 1896).

William & Philena McConnell both died in New York, but are buried in Lakeview Baptist Cemetery, Malahide Township.  William was the son of Joseph McConnell & Mary Shook.

Frank McConnell Jr. enlisted with the United States Army in New York, and attained the rank of 2nd Lieutenant.  He died on July 22, 1918 while serving with the 1st Infantry Division of the 7th Field Artillery Regiment. He is buried in Oise-Aisne American Cemetery, Fere-En-Tardenois, France (Plot D, Row 37, grave 17).

Pte. Ernest Chipchase

730349

The Aylmer Express of August 22, 1918 reported Ernest’s death:

“The name of Pte. Ernest Chipchase, of Galt, appears in the casualty list this week.  He died on gun shot wounds in the thighs at Rouen.  The young man was also wounded in April 1917.  He was 22 years of age and was born in Aylmer.  He is a son of Mr and Mrs Albert Chipchase and moved with his parents to Galt some years ago”.

Ernest Chipchase was born in Aylmer on February 29, 1896, the son of Albert Chipchase & Henrietta McConnell.  Albert was a house painter.  He and Henrietta were married in Aylmer on September 28, 1889.  Albert was born in Sutton, Yorkshire about 1866, the son of William Chipchase & Margaret Milthorp. The family is found on the 1881 England census in Harrogate, Parish of Pannal, Yorkshire, living at 8 Dunoilan Terrace.  Albert emigrated to Canada about 1884.  His wife Henrietta was born about 1867, the daughter of Robert  McConnell & Amy Powers.  Albert & Henrietta (Etta) are found in the Aylmer census in 1891 (Div. 1, page 45), and 1901 (Div. 1, page 15). Other children in the family were: William R. (born March 5, 1892 in Aylmer); Minnie (Jemima) (born 1893); Margaret Meryl (born July 30, 1898 in Aylmer), and Edith Mildred (born Mar. 4, 1906 in Ingersoll).

Albert & Henrietta moved from Aylmer by 1906 and were living in Ingersoll.  They are found there on the 1911 census.  When Ernest enlisted in 1916, they were living at 75 Shade Street, Galt. Later records give their address as 131 Forest Road, Galt.  Albert Chipchase died in Preston on March 8, 1927.

Ernest Chipchase enlisted for service on January 9, 1916 in Galt.  He was also a painter, and was not married.   He died on August 13, 1918 at the age of 23, while serving with the 4th Battalion of Canadian Infantry, Central Ontario Regiment.  He is buried in St. Sever Cemetery Extension, (Rouen), Seine-Maritime, France.

Corporal Reginald Corbin

400620  Reginald Corbin

Reginald Corbin was born in Bournemouth, Hampshire, England on August 27, 1895, the son of Henry & Janet Maria Corbin.  The family is found on the 1901 England census in Bournemouth, where Henry is a butcher’s shopman, age 37, born in Wimborn, Dorset.  Janet was 32 years of age and was born in South Wales.  Their children, all born in Bournemouth, were: Maude, 13, Arthur, 9, Frederick, 8, Reginald, 5, Charles, 3, and Alfred, 1.

Reginald Corbin enlisted for service on January 13, 1915 in St. Thomas.  He was an upholsterer, and was not married.  He had served two years with the Boy’s Brigade.  He died on September 10, 1918 at the age of 23 while serving with the 2nd Battalion of Canadian Infantry, Eastern Ontario Regiment.  He is buried in Ligny St. Flochel British cemetery in France.

The family emigrated to Canada about 1913, and were living at 36 Horton Street, St. Thomas when Reginald enlisted in 1915.  They later moved to Aylmer, where Janet died on February 12, 1926 at the age of 55 years.  She was born in Wales on January 22, 1871, the daughter of Francis Summer.  She is buried in Windsor.

The St. Thomas Journal, May 8, 1916:

TWO LOCAL MEN IN THE CASUALTY LIST

Reginald Corbin and John Madeley, with the 33rd Battalion.

Both Wounded By Shrapnel

Pte. Reginald Corbin, son of Mr and Mrs J. Corbin, 36 Horton Street, was apparently wounded in the shoulder by a shrapnel bullet, from an intimation contained in a telegram received at the family home Sunday.  Pte. Corbin is with the 33rd Battalion, having enlisted here, and was 21 years of age the day he landed in England. Before enlisting he was employed at Jennings’ furniture store.  He was born in Bournemouth, Hampshire, England, but has been living here for some time.  A brother, Pte. Bert Corbin, is also with the 33rd Battalion, Pte. Charles Corbin with the Pioneers, and another brother, Frederick, is employed in Toronto.  Alfred Corbin of The Journal staff, and Eustace, going to school, are also brothers of the wounded soldier.

A follow up article on Pte. Corbin’s condition was printed in the St. Thomas Journal, May 22, 1916:

MRS. CORBIN HEARS OF SON’S CONDITION

Pte. Reginald Corbin is Reported “Fair”

Is In No. 13 Hospital in Boulogne, France

Mrs. Corbin, 36 Horton Street, has received the following letter from Beatrice Caverhill, a Canadian Red Cross commissioner in London: “I beg to inform you that Pte. Reginald Corbin, No. 400620, 2nd Canadians, who is now at No. 13 Stationary Hospital, Boulogne, France, was admitted to this hospital on April 29.  He has been wounded in the back and side.  His condition is fair.  Our French visitor, Mrs. Stephen, has been to see him but this is all she has reported.  She will go to see him regularly and do anything she can for him. As soon as she sends us further details, we will write them to you.”

An undated clipping (probably September 1916) gives an account of Reginald’s wounds received on September 14:

Pte. Reginald Corbin
Pte. Reginald Corbin is reported as having a severe wound in the shoulder received September 14. He lived with his parents at 36 Horton street, and is a brother of Pte. Bertram Corbin, who was reported a few days ago as killed, and of Pte. Charles Corbin, now in England with a part of the old 91st Battalion.  Pte. Reginald Corbin and his brother, Pte. Bertram Corbin, both enlisted in the 33rd Battalion and were sent over to England in one of the drafts.  Both boys went to France at the first of this year.  The wounded hero’s mother is nearly prostrated by the news received today, despite the fact that since she received word of her other boy’s death last week she has been momentarily expecting bad news.  The family has been advised that Corp. Reginald Corbin is now in an army hospital in Bristol, England.

The St. Thomas Journal, May 14, 1917, published a photo of Reginald, and reported that he had been wounded:

MEMBER OF PATRIOTIC FAMILY IS WOUNDED

[photo]

Pte. Reginald Corbin, son of Mr and Mrs Henry Corbin, of Aylmer, formerly of St. Thomas, who is reported wounded.

Reginald was wounded again in 1917, and a report of that was printed in the St. Thomas Daily Times, May 14, 1917, accompanied by his photograph and the following caption:

WOUNDED SECOND TIME

Pte. Reginald Corbin, son of Mr and Mrs H. Corbin, Aylmer, late of St. Thomas, who is reported wounded.  Pte. Corbin was previously wounded in the fighting on the Somme.  He went overseas with a draft from the 33rd Battalion. His brother, Bertram Corbin, was killed in action on the Somme.  A third brother, Charles, is with the Engineers in France.

The Aylmer Express of September 26, 1918 reported the death of Corporal Corbin:

Corp. Reginald Corbin, son of Mr and Mrs Henry Corbin, of this place, was wounded in France for the fourth time in three years, on September 4th, and his parents received a message on Friday notifying them that he had died from its effects on Wednesday, the 18th inst.  Corp. Corbin, three years ago, enlisted in the 33rd battalion together with his brother, Corp. Bert Corbin, who was killed in action two years ago.  Besides his parents, who have the sympathy of the town in the loss of their brave son, he is survived by four brothers, Sapper Charles, with the Canadian Engineers in France; Fred, Alfred and Eustice, of Aylmer, and one sister, Mrs. W. Saunders, Mondamin street.

In the October 10, 1918 issue, there is additional information given about his service:

Word has been received that Corp. Reginald Corbin, D.C.M., son of Mr and Mrs Henry Corbin, of this place, who died on Sept. 4th in France from his fourth wound, was decorated with the D. C. M. after his death, for bravery on the field of battle.  The decoration is being forwarded to his parents.

Mr & Mrs Corbin continued to live in Aylmer, where she died on February 12, 1926.  Her obituary appeared in the Aylmer Express, February 18, 1926:

DEATH OF MRS. H. CORBIN

Mrs. Henry Corbin, a highly respected resident of Aylmer, died at her home, John street north, on Friday morning, February 12th, following a short illness.  Mrs. Corbin was taken ill the previous Sunday and developed pneumonia.  A nurse was in attendance and she was given every possible care. Deceased was born in Bournemouth, Hampshire, England, coming to Canada about thirteen years ago. For nine years Mrs. Corbin has been a resident of Aylmer, where her husband conducts a butcher business.  She was a member of the Catholic church. Besides her husband, she is survived by four sons and one daughter, Fred, Charles and Eustice Corbin, of Windsor; Alfred, at home; Mrs. K. G. Saunders, of Detroit.  One sister, Mrs. George Anstey, of Bournemouth, England, also survives.  The funeral service took place privately at the home on Monday morning and the remains were taken to Windsor on the Wabash train at noon. Service was held on Tuesday morning at Alathontis church, Windsor, and interment was made in a Windsor cemetery.

Corp. Arthur Bertram Corbin

400882  Arthur Corbin

Although Henry & Janet Corbin had not yet moved to Aylmer, but were still living in St. Thomas when their first son gave his life, Pte. Arthur Bertram Corbin will be included in this publication.  For additional information on the family’s origins, please refer to the notes on Reginald, above.

Bertram Corbin was born in Bournemouth, England on July 11, 1892.  He enlisted for service on January 13, 1915 in St. Thomas. He lists his next of kin as his mother, Janet Corbin, of 36 Horton Street, St. Thomas.  He was a farmer and was not married.  

Bertram died on September 3, 1916 while serving with the 2nd Battalion of Canadian Infantry, Eastern Ontario Regiment.  He is buried in the 2nd Canadian Cemetery, Somme, France.

Notice of Bertram’s death was reported in the St. Thomas Journal, September 13, 1916:

CORP. CORBIN IS VICTIM OF WAR; DIES IN ACTION

Son of Mr and Mrs H. Corbin, Horton Street

Has Made the Supreme Sacrifice

ENLISTED HERE WITH THE 33RD BATTALION

Was Employed by Yarmouth Farmer – Prominent in Life of St. John’s Church

Corp. Bertram Corbin, son of Mr and Mrs Henry Corbin, 36 Horton street, has made the supreme sacrifice in the war.  A message was received this morning by Alfred Corbin, a brother of the deceased soldier, stating that Pte. Corbin had been killed in action in France.  Corp. Corbin and his brother Reginald Corbin enlisted with the 33rd Battalion and went overseas with one of the early drafts from that unit last summer.  Another brother, Pte. Charles Corbin, is with the Canadian Engineers and went overseas several months ago.  Corp. “Bert” Corbin, before enlisting was working with John A. Miller, Edgeware Road. He was a prominent member of the St. Andrew’s Brotherhood and the Young Men’s Club of St. John’s Church and was well-liked.  Besides his parents and the soldier brothers enumerated, the deceased young man leaves two brothers, Alfred and Eustace, at home, and one sister, Mrs. Saunders, Manitoba street. Corp. Corbin’s parents are at present living in Port Stanley where Mr. Corbin is manage of Moody & Clarke’s store there. When the message came today they were at London fair, but it was conveyed to them by their son Alfred, who works in the city.

An account of the memorial service appeared in the September 15, 1916 issue of the Journal:

REQUIEM MASS FOR CORP. CORBIN

At the Church of the Holy Angels, Friday morning requiem mass for the late Corporal Bert Corbin, killed in action in France, was sung by Rev. Father Langlois.  An empty casket covered with a British flag, was used in the service and the Reverend Father said a tribute to the bravery and heroism of the young man who had gone forth and given his life for the noble cause.  There were about two hundred in attendance, including the relatives and friends of the dead soldier.  Two brothers of the deceased, Ptes Reginald and Charles Corbin, are in France.

A photograph of Bertram and his two brothers also serving in the war, was published in the St. Thomas Journal, September 23, 1916, with the following headline and caption:

ONE DEAD, ONE WOUNDED, ONE SERVING

The above pictures show the three sons of Mr and Mrs Henry Corbin, 36 Horton street, who donned the king’s uniform.  In the centre is Corp. Bertram Corbin, who was recently reported as having been killed in action. He left Canada with a detached company of the 33rd Battalion and had been in the trenches since the first of the war.  On the left is Pte. Reginald Corbin, who, on Thursday, was reported dangerously wounded.  Pte. Reginald Corbin left with his brother, Bertram, and has been in the trenches about the same length of time. He was wounded before.  He is now in a hospital in Bristol, England, with a gunshot wound in the shoulder.  Before enlisting, Pte. Corbin was an employee of the Jennings Furniture Company.  The solider at the right is Sapper Charles G. Corbin, a member of the Royal Canadian Engineers and now at Folkestone.  He expects to go to the firing line shortly.  He has been in England for about three months.  Sapper Corbin, before enlisting, was employed in the M.C.R. shops.

Several letters from Bertram Corbin to his family were printed in the St. Thomas Journal, as follows:

To his parents, printed September 21, 1915:

CORP. CORBIN FINDS ST. THOMAS MEN MINUS LEGS AND ARMS

Member of Detached Corps of 33rd, Goes to See Local Volunteers Who Have Been

At the Front – Some of Them in Bad Condition

Tells of Trip Across Atlantic

Mr and Mrs H. Corbin, 36 Horton street, have received the following letter from their son, Corp. Bert Corbin, who is a member of the detached company of the 33rd Battalion, now part of the 9th Battalion, Shorncliffe, England:

“We arrived safely in England, after a pleasant trip across the Atlantic. We left Montreal at 2:30 a.m. under an escort, and the escort remained with us until we reached the open sea.  At night everything was in pitch darkness. The weather was lovely and the sea like a mill pond. The only time we felt any fear was upon the second day from port, when we had to lie out and sleep on the decks; but we got through without any trouble.  We arrived at Shorncliffe just after dark, tired out after our ride of eight hours in the train without a wash, cleaning or brushup.  After we had supper I went to see the St. Thomas boys who have been at the front. Some were without legs and other minus arms. There are about 65,000 men at Shorncliffe at the different camping grounds.  It feels good to be again in England after such a long absence.  I can see a change even in these parts.  I expect to go to Bournemouth next week for six days while on leave.  You can guess I will be very busy while I am there.  I can say for sure that we will be in France within a month or six weeks. We are training very hard now. This morning we were reviewed by the King.”

To his sister, printed May 11, 1916:

PTE. BERT CORBIN PLAYS FOOTBALL AS THE BIG GUNS ROAR

Well-Known St. Thomas Young Man Tells of Army Life in France

Men Have Many Narrow Escapes – Has Been Happy Ever Since He Enlisted

Mrs. W. Saunders, 61 ½ Manitoba street, has received the following interesting letter under date of April 19, from her brother, Bert Corbin, now with the 2nd Battalion in France:

“Dear Maud and Bill – I received your letter last week thanking you very much for it.  I have just received a letter from home.  I hope these few lines will find you all well, as it leaves Reg and I at the time of writing. Well, we are out resting just now, having done our eight days in the trenches.  We had a good trip, only having four men killed and a few wounded, which is very light; we had beautiful weather all the time we were in and it goes a long way to cheer one up, but the winter is not very good for trench warfare.  It is very cold, and the trenches are sometimes half full of water. People don’t realize what we have to go through out here, but all the same we get all the comfort they can give us, so we have not much to complain about only we will be glad to get back again.  Well, Charlie has joined .  He won’t see much trench fighting. They do all their work at night.  Who knows, he may boss us around some day which I hope he won’t, but still we have some fighting to do before he gets here.  I must say we take some awful chances at times.  Jack Madeley, H. O’Brien and I were doing sentry duty at a place called R. E. Farm when Fritz, as we call all Germans, started to shell us. Talk about [illegible word]. They were worse than that.  We were expecting every one to be our last, but we didn’t run away.  We all lay down and took a chance, but it was a big one, believe me.  We see some terrible sights sometimes.  The Germans won’t come across, worse luck.  It’s a pity they don’t as we are always waiting for them, be we often give them a bombing attack which turn out very lively at times.  I have been happy ever since I enlisted, and I have never wished myself back, although any hour may be out last.  I have never once gone to the trenches downhearted, or ever had the feeling I was going to be killed.  We are always singing. The last rest we had we played two foot ball matches. The first we won, 8-0 and the second 2-1.  The first game I scored 3 and Jack Madeley 3.  Reg played in goal as usual.  I won the second game in the last five minutes by scoring a penalty.  It seemed like old times, and I forgot I was a soldier for a while, but I soon found different.  I could write about fifteen pages if I had time, but the trouble is, I need a little sleep just now so will close for this time.  Remember me to all at home, not forgetting Margaret and the baby, and Eustace, so good day.  Your loving brother, Bert

Since the above letter was written word has come on the wounding of Ptes. Reginald Corbin and Jack Madeley, both of whom are mentioned above.

To his parents, printed May 27, 1916:

PTE. CORBIN WRITES OF TRENCH WARFARE

Was in Trench When Germans Exploded Mine

All Kinds of Shells Used in Bombardment

The following extracts are taken from a letter written by Pte. A. B. Corbin, 2nd Batt., 1st Can. Div., now in France, to his parents, Mr. and Mrs. H. Corbin, 36 Horton Street, and are very interesting:

“We came out of the trenches last night after having a warm time of it.  It was on the twenty-sixth, about six-thirty, the Germans blew up a mine under our trench, then they came to bombard us with all kinds of shell-trench mortars and everything they could use.  They made an attack and got into our trench, but we soon drove them out again.  But I guess many of them did not reach their trench again.  Our artillery gave them hell, and we are told they were carrying dead all the next day in wagon loads, but it sure was awful while it lasted.  We lost quite a few.  Well, I guess you will have heard before you get this that Reg and Jack are both wounded. Reg got his wound in the back by six pieces of shrapnel, but it is nothing serious to worry over.  A nice little two or three months rest for them both.  I cannot help thinking how lucky we all were to come out alive, but we have made a name for ourselves by holding the line and a nice sixteen days’ rest.  We were told the Germans were lined up three times to come over but they didn’t have the heart.  We were longing for them to come but no such luck.  We may get a chance some other time.  We lost quite a few of the old 33rd boys, but only one St. Thomas boy, named Newton, so I think we were lucky out of all the boys we had killed and wounded but believe me we were all glad when the eight days were up.  We had certainly a warm trip all through but don’t worry, I am feeling merry and bright but I miss Reg and Jack quite a lot.”

Pte. Walter Everard Alway Brown

228550  Walter Brown

Although Walter Brown did not live in the Aylmer – Malahide area, his parents were both from here, and his paternal grandfather was still living at Dunboyne at the time of his death.  The Aylmer Express of September 26, 1918 reports the death of Pte. Brown:

A cable has just been received by Merritt A. Brown, barrister at law, Toronto, and son of Mr. Nicholas Brown, Dunboyne, informing him that his son, Walter Everard Alway Brown, signaller, was officially reported killed in action on September 4th.  Singaller Brown was 24 years of age and enlisted for active service in August, 1916.  He left for overseas in February, 1917. He graduated at Riverdale High School, Toronto, was a second year student at Osgoode Hall as a law student.  He was a young man with a bright future before him, and his supreme sacrifice was a severe shock to his relatives and friends.  He was a nephew of Lieut-Col. Walter J. Brown, A.A.G. Military District, No. 1.  His mother is a daughter of the late James McCredie, of Orwell.

Walter Brown was born in Toronto on August 28, 1894, the son of Merritt Alpheus Brown & Amelia Christina McCredie, who were married in Yarmouth Township on December 28, 1887.  Merritt was born in Malahide, the son of Nicholas & Mima Brown; while Amelia was born in South Dorchester Township, the daughter of James & Submit McCreadie.

Walter enlisted for service in Toronto on August 14, 1916.  He had served for one year as a private in the C.O.T.C.  He was a student and was single.  He was living with his parents at 83 Badgerow Ave., Toronto.   Walter died on September 4, 1918 at the age of 24 while serving with the 75th Battalion of Canadian Infantry, Central Ontario Regiment.  He is buried in Dury Mill British Cemetery in France.

His name is on his parents gravestone at the Dunboyne Cemetery.

Gunner Edward Christopher Peyton Breay

84105  Edward Breay

The Aylmer Express of October 17, 1918 reports the deaths of two Aylmer men (the portion of the article referring to Pte. Owen Anger will be found under his name):

TWO AYLMER SOLDIERS VICTIMS OF INFLUENZA

Corp. Breay and Pte. Owen Anger Died from Dread Disease in London

Two Aylmer men, Corporal Edward Christopher Payton Breay and Pte. Owen J. Anger, died at the Military Hospital in London from pneumonia, following an attack of Spanish influenza.  Corporal Breay, who is a son-in-law of Mr and Mrs F. W.  Ingram of this place, was a convalescent patient in London, having been returned from overseas, severely wounded after many months active service in France.  Besides his wife, he is survived by one son.  Deceased was but 25 years of age, and just before he left for overseas was married at the home of the bride’s parents, which was then at Grovesend.  Before enlisting Corp. Breay was engaged in farming, having come to Canada from England, where his relatives reside.  His remains were brought to Aylmer and the funeral took place from the residence of Mr and Mrs Ingram, on Tuesday, interment being made in the Aylmer cemetery.

Edward was born on July 8, 1893 in Travandum, Madras, India, the son of Christopher Francis Breay & Mabel Ouehterlomy.  Edward moved to England where he is found on the 1901 census in Ringwould, Kent, age 7, described as a visitor at the Ringwould Rectory.  When he enlisted for service in 1914, his father was living at 6 Lawrence Pountney Hill, London, England.

Edward enlisted for service in London on November 14, 1914.  He had served two years in the Officer’s Training Corps. He was a farmer and was single at the time.

A month later, he was married on Constance Evelyn Winnington-Ingram on December 27, 1914 at the residence of her father at Grovesend in Malahide Township.  She was the daughter of Francis (Frank) Herbert Winnington-Ingram & Emily Jane Hankinson.

The Veterans Affairs of Canada records show that he had served with the 16th Battery of Canadian Field Artillery.  As stated above in the newspaper article, he died on October 12, 1918 in the Military Hospital in London, Ontario, from influenza.  He is buried in Aylmer cemetery.  His name appears on two monuments, one a military marker bearing the following inscription:

84105 Gunner Edward C. P. Breay C.F.A., C.E.F.  12 October 1918 Rest in Peace.

His name is also inscribed on the Winnington-Ingram monument in Aylmer cemetery, with his wife:

Edward Peyton Breay, 1893 – 1918, died while on duty in the Great War. Constance E., his wife, 1884 – 1952.

Pte. Owen James Anger

3134476   

The Aylmer Express of October 17, 1918 reported the death of two Aylmer soldiers, one of whom was Corp. Breay, above.  The portion of the article dealing with Pte. Anger is given below:

TWO AYLMER SOLDIERS VICTIMS OF INFLUENZA

Corp. Breay and Pte. Owen Anger Die from Dread Disease in London

Two Aylmer men, Corporal Edward Christopher Payton Breay and Pte. Owen J. Anger died at the Military Hospital in London, from pneumonia, following an attack of Spanish influenza.  Pte. Owen Anger is a son of Mrs. Nancy Anger, Pine street, in Aylmer, and was in training in London, when stricken with influenza.  He succumbed to pneumonia on Sunday.  His mother was notified on Saturday of his serious condition and left immediately for London, and was able to see her son before he passed away.  His father, the late Alvah Anger, predeceased him a few years ago. Besides his mother he is survived by three sisters, all of Aylmer. His remains were also brought to Aylmer and the funeral was held from the home of his mother on Tuesday afternoon to the Richmond cemetery.

Owen was born in Aylmer on August 15, 1895, the son of Alvah Owen Anger & Nancy Cascadden, who were married in St. Thomas on May 23, 1894.  Alvah was born in Malahide, the son of Leonard Anger & Catherine Esther Matthews, and was employed as a carpenter in Aylmer at the time of his marriage.  Nancy was the daughter of Hugh & Laura Cascadden, and was living at Inwood, Ont. at the time of her marriage.  The family is found on the 1901 census in Aylmer (Div. 2, page 2), where Alvah is a teamster.  By 1911, they had moved to Bayham Township (Div. 6, page 3), where Alvah is farming. Other members of the family were Lena May (1897 – 1969), Hazel (born 1901), and Sadie (born 1904).

Owen enlisted for service on July 11, 1918 in London, and was in training at the time of his death in a military hospital in London.  He was a member of the 1st Depot Battalion of Canadian Infantry, Western Ontario Regiment.  He died on October 13, 1918 at the age of 23.  He is buried in Richmond cemetery beside his parents, his grave marked by a military monument with the following inscription:

3134476 Private Owen James Anger, Western Ontario Reg’t,  C.E.F.  13 October 1918. Gone but not forgotten

His father, Alvah Owen Anger, who died on December 6, 1913 in his 49th year, and his mother Nancy (1871 – 1938) along with his sister Lena May (1897 – 1969), are all buried in Richmond cemetery.  Owen’s sister Hazel was married in 1921 to Arthur Bruce Freeman.

Pte. Charles Drummond

124363

The Belmont news column in the Aylmer Express of November 14, 1918 reported the death of Charles Drummond:

Word has been received that Pte. Chas. Drummond, formerly of this village, has been killed in action on the 10th inst.  His wife and family have been living in Eastwood since moving from Belmont.

Charles Drummond was born on October 4, 1890 in London, but his parents’ names are not known.  He was married on May 23, 1912 in London to Ethel Mulholland, also of London, but a native of Oxford County.

He enlisted for service on November 8, 1915, while living in Belmont. He was a farmer.  He died on October 10, 1918 while serving with the 18th Battalion of Canadian Infantry, Western Ontario Regiment, at the age of 32.  He is buried in Iwuy Communal Cemetery in France.  His wife’s address is given in the Veterans Affairs of Canada records as 1378 Trafalgar Street, London.

Pte. Alvin Moore

3108452

The Aylmer Express of May 22, 1919 gives a brief mention of Pte. Alvin Moore:

Mr and Mrs Arthur Chambers and son, Garnet, attended the funeral of their nephew, the late Pte. Alvin Moore, who died at London last week and was buried in Richmond cemetery.

A more detailed obituary appeared in the St. Thomas Times-Journal, May 13, 1919:

PTE. ALVIN MOORE DIES IN LONDON

Former Member of the 116th Battalion Had Just Returned from Overseas

Burial At Corinth
The death took place at Victoria Hospital, London, Monday afternoon, of Private Alvin Moore, of the 116th Battalion after a brief illness, aged 21 years.  The deceased had just returned from France.  He is survived by his parents, Mr and Mrs Wm. Watson; four brothers and four sisters – Mrs. Lorne Firby, Cochrane, Ont.; Mrs. Adam Brown, city; Mrs. A. Tribe, Richmond, Ont.; Miss Myrtle Moore, city; Clarence, Vincent and Harley, city; and Stanley, of Corinth.  The remains were brought to P. R. Williams & Son’s establishment and the funeral will take place Wednesday at one o’clock from the residence of his brother, Clarence Moore, No. 10 Edward Street, thence to Richmond cemetery by motors for interment.

According to his birth registration, Alvin was born on October 9, 1897 in Bayham Township, the son of Thomas Moore & Margaret Bagley, a farmer.  On his attestation paper,  Alvin states he was born on October 2, 1898 in Aylmer.   His parents were married in Aylmer on February 10, 1886.  Thomas (born 1854) was residing in Bayham, the son of Alexander & Elizabeth Moore.  Margaret Jane Bagley (born 1866) was a resident and native of Houghton Township, Norfolk County, the daughter of Richard Bagley & Hannah Patterson.

Thomas & Margaret are found on the 1901 census in Bayham (Div. 5, page 1).  Other members of the family were: Pearl (born 1886); Edith (born 1889); Mabel (born 1892); Clarence Leland (born 1895), and Vincent (born 1900).  Two more children were born to them, after 1901: Myrtle Ann (1903), and Ira Hirley Carman (1906).  At the birth of their son Ira in 1906, the family was living in Richmond. The family cannot be located on the 1911 census, although it seems likely Margaret was still living in Bayham Township.

Thomas died in 1910 and is buried in Richmond cemetery.  His widow Margaret was married in Corinth on May 27, 1912 to William Wallace Watson.  She died in 1941 and is buried beside her first husband in Richmond.

Alvin was recruited for service on March 18, 1918 in Hamilton.  He gives his address as “Clute Post Office, Ontario”.  Clute is located in the Cochrane District.  He was a farmer, and was single.  He names his next of kin as his mother, Margaret Moore Watson, of St. Thomas.  

He died at Victoria Hospital in London on May 12, 1919 at the age of 21, from meningitis.  He had been in the hospital for one month.

He is buried in Richmond cemetery beside his parents with a military grave marker bearing the following inscription:  “3108452 Private Alvin Moore 116th Battn. C. E. F.  12th May 1919″

Pte. Harry Arnold Benner

736752

Harry Arnold Benner was born on July 12, 1895 near Corinth in Bayham Township, the son of Andrew Lewis Benner & Vida Cascadden, who were married on February 14, 1889 in Dereham Township. Andrew Benner was born in Malahide in 1856, the son of Leander & Julia Benner.  Vida Cascadden was born in 1861 in Malahide, the daughter of Thomas & Mary Cascadden.

Harry’s father Andrew died on August 30, 1900 at the age of 44. His widow Vida and family are found on the 1901 census in Bayham (Div. 5, page 3), and 1911 (Div. 6, page 9).  Other members of the family were a daughter Bertha (1890).

Sometime after the 1911 census, Harry and his mother Vida moved to Alberta, where Harry enlisted for service on March 25, 1916 at Hanna, Alberta.  He gives his address as Hanna, while he names his next of kin as his mother, Vida J. Benner, of High River, Alberta.  He was a druggist and was not married.

Harry served throughout the war and came home to Alberta where he was in a military hospital. He was accidentally drowned on May 22, 1919 in Alberta.  Notice of his death was reported in the Aylmer Express, May 29, 1919 in the Corinth news column:

Word has been received here that Pte. Harry Benner, formerly of this place, was accidentally drowned last Wednesday, in the West.  He had returned from France and was in a military hospital.  As soon as the body is recovered it will be brought here for burial.

Harry’s funeral was reported in the Aylmer Express, June 12, 1919:

The funeral of Pte. Harry Arnold Benner who was drowned at Fort Qu’Appelle, Sask., on May 22nd and whose body was not recovered until June 1, was held Monday, on the arrival of the G. T. R. noon train, to the Corinth cemetery for interment.  The funeral was of a military nature and Rev. T. H. Bole, pastor of St. Paul’s Methodist church, Tillsonburg, conducted the service. The young hero, formerly lived here, but removed to High River, Alta., several years ago.  He had only returned from three years of active service overseas, and was in a military hospital.  Representatives of the Aylmer, Tillsonburg and St. Thomas G. W. V. A. were present and the funeral was one of the largest ever witnessed in the neighborhood. Six Tillsonburg veterans acted as pall bearers: J. Darrow, C. Palmer, L. Jackson, F. Allen, J. Haines and A. Sullivan.  The Last Post was sounded by trumpeter Percy Thring, of Tillsonburg.  Pte. Benner’s brother and sister, Mr and Mrs Alfred Lowther accompanied the body from the west.

Harry’s parents are also buried in Firby Cemetery near Corinth.  Vida died on November 24, 1916.  Harry’s name appears on their monument, with the following inscription: “Harry A. Benner, born July 12, 1895, died May 22, 1919.  A Hero of the Great War”.

A military marker was also erected beside that of his parents, with the following inscription:

736752 Private Harry Arnold Benner 16th Battn. C. E. F.  22nd May 1919. The memory of one we love will never fade away.

Harry’s father’s obituary appeared in the Aylmer Express, September 6, 1900:

It was with feelings of deepest sorrow and regret that the many friends of Mr. Lou Benner, of Corinth, formerly of this place, learned of his death which occurred on Thursday last from typhoid fever. His death came as a surprise as he had been improving at one time and the fever was broken, but a little over exertion, or over eating brought on a relapse, which his weakened condition was unable to stand.  Lou was an exceptionally fine fellow and made friends wherever he went.  He was in his 45th year and leaves a wife and two small children. He was a consistent member of the Methodist church. The funeral took place on Saturday last and was a very large one.

Additional Names With East Elgin Connections

In addition to those names found on cenotaphs in East Elgin, and in references in the Aylmer Express, there are several other men either from this area or with family connections here, who gave their lives in the Great War.  These will be listed alphabetically.

Pte. Frank Badgley

Pte. Oswald Baker

Pte. Allen Banford

Pte. Russell Hugh Burgar

Lance-Corp. Cecil Andrew Burroughs

Pte. Percy Capern

Pte. Emerson Cascadden

Pte. Guy Clarke

Pte. James Henry Cole

Pte. Ryheo Cornwall

Pte. John William Cracknell

Pte. Richard Craven

Pte. Herman Delbert Firby

Sapper Clarence Spencer Hatch

Pte. William Henry

Pte. Garfield Kaar

Pte. Roy Kallar

Pte. Thomas Kneller

Captain William Luton

Pte. Clarence MacKenzie

Pte. James Mansfield

Pte. William Edgar Martin

Pte. Archibald McCallum

Pte. Harold Gordon McDonald

Pte. William McGrath

Pte. Archibald Nellis Peters

Corp. Frederick Milburn Rhodes

Pte. Robert Edwin Richey

Pte. Walter Lorne Robbins

Cecil J. Robinson

Pte. Stanley Donald Robinson

Pte. Charles Roloson

Pte. Leslie Sadler

Sapper Charlton Sebring

Pte. Neil Sprague

Pte. Thomas McGregor Smith

Corporal Avery Stoner

Pte. James Thomas Taylor

Pte. Thomas Wharton 

Pte. Edwin Garfield Wilson

Pte. Frank Badgley

2448489

Franklin Learn Badgley was born on June 24, 1900 in St. Thomas, the son of Arthur L. Badgley & Rosa Olive Learn.  Arthur was a brakeman on the railway, and the family was living on Manitoba Street at the time of Frank’s birth.  

Arthur and Rosa were married in St. Thomas on July 6, 1898.  He was born in St. Thomas, but residing in Yarmouth at the time.  Rosa was born in Belmont in 1876, and residing there, the daughter of John Learn & Jane Emery.

Arthur, Rosa & Frank are found on the 1901 census in St. Thomas (Div. 12, page 13).  Frank appears to have been their only child.  They moved to Detroit about 1901, and appear there on the 1910 census, where Arthur is employed as a fireman on the railroad.

Frank enlisted for service on July 28, 1917 in Windsor.  He was living at 319 6th Avenue, Detroit, and was employed as a truck driver.  He was not married, and incorrectly gave his birth date as June 24, 1898.  He lists his mother, Rose Badgley, as next of kin, living at 47 W. Euclid Ave., Detroit.  A second Attestation Paper for Frank gives his mother’s address as 507 126th Street, Detroit.

Frank died on August 11, 1918 at the age of 18, while serving with the 47th Battalion of Canadian Infantry, British Columbia Regiment.  His name appears on the Vimy Memorial in France.

His mother survived him by only a year, passing away in October, 1919.  She is buried in Mapleton cemetery with her parents, John Learn & Jane Emery.  Frank’s name also appears on the monument, with the following inscription:

“Frank L. Badgley,  killed in action in France,  August 11, 1918 aged 18 yrs.”

Rose Badgley’s obituary appeared in the Aylmer Express, October 23, 1919:

DEATH OF MRS. BADGLEY

A very sad and sudden death took place at Detroit on Sunday, October 5th, in the person of Mrs. Rosa Badgley in her forty-third year. Mrs. Badgley was a daughter of Mrs. John Learn, Belmont. She underwent an operation for appendicitis on Saturday and passed away Sunday evening.  Services were held in Detroit on Monday evening at her late home and the remains brought to her mother’s home, Belmont, on Tuesday. The funeral took place Wednesday at 2 o’clock and was largely attended, and the remains were laid to rest at Mapleton cemetery.  Mrs. Badgley was of an unusually bright and cheerful disposition and her pleasant smile and sunny temperament had a happy and beneficial effect on all with whom she came in contact.  The floral offerings were beautiful, including a wreath from the Rebecca Lodge, of which deceased was a member.  Deceased leaves to mourn her loss, her mother, Mrs. John Learn, three brothers, William, of Detroit, who came with the remains; George, of St. Thomas; and Victor at the homestead. Much sympathy is extended to the family in their sad bereavement.

Pte. Oswald Baker

189775

Oswald  H.  Baker was born on February 18, 1898 in LaSalette, Windham Township, Norfolk County, the son of Lewis Baker & Sarah Ann Seney. They were married in Simcoe on May 26, 1886.  Lewis was living in Windham Centre, employed as a telegraph operator, the son of Benjamin Franklin Baker & Catherine King.  Sarah Ann Seney was also a resident of Windham Centre, the daughter of George King & Mary Fero.  At the time of Oswald’s birth, Lewis was the station agent at Windham.

After their marriage, Lewis & Sarah lived in Malahide Township (circa 1888 to 1890), and Yarmouth Township (circa 1891 to 1894).  They then returned to Windham Township, Norfolk County in the late 1890’s, and are found there on the 1901 census (Div. 3, page 9).  In 1907, they were living in Blenheim, Kent County, and by 1911 they had moved to Tilbury North, Essex County, where they appear on the 1911 census (Div. 2, page 5).

Other members of the family were: Lewis Roscoe (1888); Arnold Franklin (1890); Coral May (1891); Clarence Carlton (1894); Clara Luella (1899); Olive Rhea (1901); Kenneth Harold (1904); and Victor J. Ellmore (1907). 

By 1915, the family had returned to Elgin County, and were living in Belmont.  Oswald enlisted for service on December 28, 1915 in St. Thomas, and gives his address as Belmont, Elgin County.  He names his next of kin as his mother, Mrs. Sarah Baker, of Belmont.  He was a labourer, and was not married.

Oswald died on August 23, 1916 at the age of 18, while serving with the 91st Battalion of Canadian Infantry, C.E.F.  He is buried in Shorncliffe Military Cemetery, Kent, England.

Announcement of Oswald’s death appeared in the St. Thomas Journal, August 28, 1916:

BELMONT MAN DIES IN MILITARY HOSPITAL

Pte. Oswald H. Baker, of the 91st Battalion, Succumbs to Diphtheria While in England

Omer Gray, salesman with Wm. D. Boyce, 194 Wellington street, received a telephone communication from his uncle, Louis Baker, Belmont, Monday, informing him of the fact that Pte. Oswald H. Baker, son of the Belmont man, had died of diphtheria in a military hospital in England.  Pte. Baker left St. Thomas with the 91st Battalion as a member of the signaling corps and evidently contracted the dread disease while in one or other of the training camps in England.  A brother, Pte. Carleton Baker, also left with the Elgin Battalion.

Lewis & Sarah continued to live in Belmont, and celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in 1936.  An article about that event appeared in the St. Thomas Times-Journal, May 28, 1936:

MARRIAGE 50 YEARS AGO HELD IN SIMCOE

Mr and Mrs Lewis Baker Entertained on Anniversary

Belmont, May 28 – On Tuesday, May 26,, Mr and Mrs Lewis Baker, of Union Street, Belmont, celebrated their fiftieth wedding anniversary. Mr and Mrs Baker were married in Simcoe, on May 26, 1886, by the Rev. Milne Crool. After their marriage they first resided in Niagara Falls, then in various Southern Ontario towns where Mr. Baker was stationed as a railroad agent on the C.P.R. They have resided in Belmont for 25 years, being valued residents and always taking a keen interest in community welfare.  Mr Baker served as C.P.R. agent at Belmont until six years ago when he was superannuated. They are members of the United Church, Mrs. Baker being a member of the Women’s Association and the Women’s Missionary Societies.  Mr. Baker is a member of the Masonic Lodge A.F. & A.M., No. 190 and has been a member of the I.O.O.F lodge for 20 years. They have nine children all of whom are living except Oswald who died overseas in 1916.  Those surviving are: Lewis Roscoe, St. Catharines; Arnold Franklin, Windsor; Mrs. Coral May Gross, Ann Arbor, Michigan; Clarence Carlton, Riverside, California; Mrs. Clara Luella Gates, Verschoyle, Ont.; Mrs. Olive Rhea Murdock, Windsor; Kenneth Harold Baker, Little Longlac Gold Mine, Ont.; Victor E. Baker, Sudbury; they also have fourteen grandchildren. Circumstances prevented a reunion of the family but those present were Mr and Mrs Gerald T. Murdock and their three children of Windsor, and L. Roscoe Baker and family, St. Catharines. Numerous friends of Mr and Mrs Baker called during the day to offer their congratulations and they received several beautiful presents including a substantial purse of money.

Pte. Allen Banford

  226052

Allen Banford was born on January 20, 1897 in Longton, Staffordshire, England, the son of Thomas & Ann Banford.  The family is found on the 1901 England census in Longton, living at 15 Ladycott Terrace.  Thomas was a carriage painter, and both he and his wife Ann were born in Stourbridge, Worcester.

Allen Banford emigrated to Canada and was living at R.R. #2 Aylmer when he enlisted for service on October 23, 1915 in St. Thomas.  His address was c/o J. R. Bobbett, R.R. #2 Aylmer.  He names his next of kin as his mother, Mrs. Annie Banford, 28 Leveson St., Longton, Staffordshire, England. He was assigned to “B” Squadron, Canadian Mounted Rifles.

Allen Banford was killed in action on October 10, 1918, at the age of 21.  He was serving with the Canadian Light Horse.  He is buried in Drummond Cemetery, Raillencourt, France.

Pte. Russell Hugh Burgar

432149  Russell Hugh Burgar

Russell Burgar was born on September 29, 1897 in Vienna, the son of Hugh Frederick Burgar (1870-1941) & Cora Selena Rowe (1876-1967).  Hugh was born in Elgin County, the son of Fred Burgar & Dolina McIntosh and was a teamster living in Detroit when he was married on May 6, 1893 in Windsor to Cora Rowe, a native of Bayham living in Detroit, the daughter of Daniel Rowe & Eliza Appleton. The family moved to Edmonton and later British Columbia where Hugh died on February 22, 1941 in New Westminster.  Cora died on December 4, 1967 in Surrey, B.C.

Russell was a student living with his parents at 11711 80th Street, Edmonton when he enlisted for service on January 4, 1915 in Edmonton.  He had served three months in the 19th Alberta Dragoons.

Russell was killed in action on May 2, 1916 at the age of 18, while serving with the 49th Battalion of Canadian Infantry, Albert Division.  He is buried in Maple Copse Cemetery, Ieper, West Vlaanderen, Belgium.

 (with younger brother Hiram, sister Urith, and parents)

Lance Corporal Cecil Andrew Burroughs

823156  Cecil Burroughs

this photo MAY be Cecil Burroughs – it was found in a collection belonging to a Burroughs relative

Cecil Andrew Burroughs was born on December 20, 1895 in Aylmer, the son of Theodore Burroughs (1859-1896) & Mary Roberts (1865-1910). Theodore was the son of Jason Burroughs of Port Bruce, and was drowned in Lake Erie in 1896 in a fishing boat tragedy.

Cecil Burroughs was living at 417 Ottaway Ave, London with his uncle James Georgeson, when he enlisted for service on December 8, 1915 in London. He was a machinist and had served three years with the First Hussars.

Cecil was killed in action on August 9, 1918 while serving with the 14th Battalion of Canadian Infantry, Quebec Regiment.  He is buried in Manitoba Cemetery, Caix, Somme, France.

Pte. Percy Goodman Capern

189343  Percy Capern

Percy Goodman Capern was born on February 28, 1881 in London, England, the son of Henry Capern & Euphran Alice Air, who were married in 1862 in Newington, Surrey, England.

The family is found on the 1891 England census, living at 73 Stockwell Park Road, Lambeth, London.  Henry Capern is a secretary for a life insurance company, and was born at Long Buckley, Northamptonshire about 1839.  His wife Euphran was born about 1838 in Falmouth, Cornwall.  Living with them is their son Percy G., who was born in Brixton, London (Surrey). Other members of the family were: Anne A. (1867); James A. (1867); Cummings A. (1871), Edward (1873); and Edith E. (1878).

By 1901, Henry had died and only Edith and Percy are living with their widowed mother Euphran at Norwood Road, Lambeth, Surrey.  Percy is employed as a commercial clerk.

While his middle name is clearly spelled “Goodman” on his Attestation Paper, the newspaper reporting his death refers to him as “Pte. Goodwin Capern”. His birth registration in English records also gives “Goodman” as his middle name.

Goodwin was married in 1906 to Lily Newnham in Lambeth, Surrey (Greater London).  They cannot be found on the 1911 Canadian census, so it is believed they emigrated from England after that date.  

He enlisted for service with the 91st Battalion on November 13, 1915 in Aylmer.  He gives his address as R.R. #4 Aylmer, and his next of kin is his wife, Lily.  He was a farmer.

Goodwin died on November 7, 1917 at Passchendaele, while serving with the 3rd Battalion of Canadian Infantry, Central Ontario Regiment.  His name appears on the Menin Gate (Ypres) Memorial in Belgium.

Pte. Capern’s death was reported in the St. Thomas Journal, November 21, 1917:

SOLDIER DIES, LEAVES WIFE, THREE CHILDREN

Pte. Goodwin Capern, Formerly of 91st Makes Supreme Sacrifice

Mrs. L. Capern, 47 Manitoba street, received the sad news Tuesday morning that her husband, Pte. Goodwin Capern, infantry, No. 189343, has been killed in action on Nov. 6.  Pte. Capern enlisted and went overseas with the 91st.  He leaves besides his wife, three little children. The whole community will join in extending its deepest sympathy.

Pte. Emerson Cascadden

3130111  Emerson Cascadden

Emerson was born on May 22, 1885 at Corinth in Bayham Township, the son of Edward Cascadden & Jane Colbeck, a section man on the Grand Trunk Railway.  The family moved from Corinth to Southwold Township where they appear on the 1901 census (Div. 5, page 1), and the 1911 census (Div. 4, page 8).  Other members of the family were: Leslie (1875) and Edith (1889).

Edward Cascadden was born in Malahide Township about 1842, the son of William & Nancy Ann Cascadden. He died at Frome in Southwold Township on June 28, 1917 at the age of 75.  His wife Jane Colbeck was born in 1861 in England, and died on May 19, 1944 at the age of 83.  They are buried in St. Thomas cemetery, West Ave.  Edward’s obituary appeared in the St. Thomas Journal, June 28, 1917:

EDWARD CASCADDEN IS DEAD AT FROME

Old and Esteemed Resident Was Born in the Township of Malahide

An old and respected resident for 27 years died Thursday morning at Frome, in the person of Edward Cascadden, after a long illness, of paralysis, in his 75th year.  He was born in Malahide, and a former resident of Corinth.  Mr. Cascadden leaves his widow, three sons and one daughter:  Miss Enid, at home; Emerson, at home, Leslie and B. F. Cascadden, yardmasters of the M.C.R., city; also four sisters and one brother.  He was an honored member of the Redwood Camp No. 11, Woodmen of the World and also of the Methodist church. The funeral will take place Saturday afternoon, June 30, at 1:30, from the residence to St. Thomas cemetery and will be conducted by Rev. J. W. Kilpatrick of Shedden, and Rev. W. T. Walker, of Frome.

Emerson was recruited for service on December 6, 1917, when he enlisted in London.  His address was R.R. # 3 Shedden.  He was a farmer, not married, and in religion was Congregationalist.  He lists his next as his mother, Jane Cascadden, of Shedden.

Emerson died on November 12, 1918 at the age of 34, while serving with the 85th Battalion of Canadian Infantry, Manitoba Regiment.  He is buried in Etaples Military Cemetery in France.

Emerson’s name appears on his parents’ monument in West Ave. Cemetery, St. Thomas, which contains a “Woodsmen of the World” lodge emblem, with the following inscription:

“Sov. Emerson Cascaddan, died of wounds at Etaples, France Nov. 12, 1918 in his 34th year”

Pte. Guy Hanford Clarke

190158  Guy Clarke

Guy Hanford Clarke was born on October 15, 1892 at Eden in Bayham Township, the son of William Clarke, a farmer,  & Sarah Jones.  William & Sarah were married on March 18, 1891 in Tillsonburg.  Both were natives of Bayham and living there at the time of their marriage.  William (born 1867) was the son of John& Mary (Hill) Clarke, and Sarah (born 1868) was the daughter of Michael & Phoebe Jones.

The family is found on the 1901 Bayham census (Div. 6, page 9), but by 1911 they had moved to Southwold township near Talbotville, where they appear on the census there (Div. 3, page 7).  Other members of the family were: Glen William (1896) and Nina (1898).

Guy enlisted for service on March 30, 1916 in St. Thomas.  His address was R.R. #7 St. Thomas, and he names his next of kin as his mother, Mrs. Sarah Clarke, of the same address. He was an electrician and was not married.

A letter written by Guy to his family was printed in the St. Thomas Journal, September 23, 1916:

DRUMMER CLARK, OF TALBOTVILLE, WRITES

Thinks Folkestone Looks Like Luna Park, Cleveland – Many Drafts to France

Talbotville, Sept. 23 – Miss Nina Clarke was received the following letter from her brother, Drummer G. H. Clarke, son of Mr and Mrs William Clark, of this place, who left St. Thomas with the 91st Battalion. The letter was written from West Sandling Camp, England:

“Dear Nina – Received your letter along with mother’s yesterday. Very glad to hear from you. Well, I just came back from church parade. Our brigade is getting pretty slim now. They all seem to leave on Sunday. Guess they must go by the old saying, the better the day the better the deed.  Very little news to write as things are a little quiet. Went to a little town yesterday afternoon in an auto truck and played ball and got beat, 7-0.  After the game we took a cab over to Folkestone, a town here they call it, but it is larger than St. Thomas and quite a summer resort, all kinds of amusements, etc.  It is situated on the seafront.  It put me in mind of Luna Park in Cleveland”.

Another Letter

Another letter written to the soldier’s mother is in part as follows: “Dear Mother and Dad – Received your letter tonight all O.K.  That is two already this week. Got four today and the papers.  One from Art Davidson, Bud Scott, Greta Sutton, and yourself.  Just wrote you yesterday but will answer all you write if they are not very long. Took some snaps today.  Will get them finished off soon and will send you some.  Well my shirt is a wee bit wet tonight. Was out on a ten or twelve mile route march this afternoon. Pretty hot.  Well, Mother, am still hammering away at the old drum. Just came off of retreat.  We are on duty and again this week, so can’t go any place.  Not much doing here anyway. Was over with Lorne Campbell last night.  He just came out of quarantine.  He says Frank Carroll is in hospital with the mumps and is in pretty bad shape.  Well, I am the only one left in England, but am just the same old happy Jake.  The drum major brought in a couple of pairs of canvas shoes to sell.  He was broke so I put them up at auction and sold them.  We have quite a quartette here and sing all the old love songs at night

Drummer G. Clark, No. 190100, 12th Reserve Bugle Band,

West Sandling Camp, Kent, England”

An article telling about Pte. Clarke being the victim of gas poisoning was published in the St. Thomas Daily Times, April 20, 1917, accompanied by his photograph:

91ST MAN VICTIM OF GAS POISONING

Mr and Mrs Wm Clarke, Talbotville, have been officially notified that their son, (190158) Pte. Guy H. Clarke, of the 38th Canadians, had been admitted to No. 12 Field Ambulance on March 26, gas poisoned.  Pte. Clarke left St. Thomas with the 91st, and was among the first drafted to France.

Guy died on October 30, 1917 while serving with the 38th Battalion of Canadian Infantry, Eastern Ontario Regiment.  He is buried in Tyne Cot Cemetery, Belgium. 

Notice of Guy’s death appeared in the St. Thomas Daily Times, December 8, 1917, accompanied by his photograph:

KILLED IN ACTION

PTE. GUY CLARK

Mr and Mrs William Clark of Talbotville have received word that their son, Pte. Guy Handford Clark, a former member of the 91st was officially reported killed in action on October 13 last.  Pte. Clark is survived by one sister Nina at home, and one brother Pte. Glen Clarke, now overseas with the 91st Battalion.  Glen’s letters have been published in the Times and were greatly appreciated. He was a popular young man.

Notice of his death also appeared in the St. Thomas Journal, December 8, 1917, with further details:

PTE. GUY CLARKE KILLED IN ACTION

Parents Receive Official Word Following Contradiction of an Earlier Report

Mr and Mrs William Clarke, Talbotville, received the sad news Saturday that their son, Pte. Guy Clarke has been officially reported killed in action.  An unofficial report was received Tuesday, stating that Pte. Clarke had fallen, but this was afterward contradicted by a report to the contrary, only to be followed today by the official communication from military headquarters, stating that his name had been listed among the killed in action on October 30.  The first news of their son’s death was received by Mr and Mrs Clarke in a letter from one of his friends in the same battalion.  Mr and Mrs Clarke have the sympathy of the city in their sad bereavement.

William Clarke died on September 1, 1941, and his obituary appeared in the St. Thomas Times-Journal, September 2, 1941:

WILLIAM CLARK IS REMOVED BY DEATH

Resident of St. Thomas for Nearly 30 Years; Born at Eden

A resident of St. Thomas for nearly 30 years and a former resident of Talbotville, William Clark, well-known business man, died at his residence, Monday noon, following several months’ illness, in his 74th year.  Mr. Clark operated a furniture and second-hand store at 254 Talbot Street for many years.  He was widely and favorably known throughout the St. Thomas district.  Mr. Clark was a member of Centre Street Baptist church. He was a son of the late John and Mary (Hill) Clark, pioneer residents of the Eden district of East Elgin.

Surviving Mr. Clark are his widow, the former Sarah Jones, 254 Talbot street, city; a son, Glen Clark, local auctioneer; a daughter, Mrs. (Rev.) J. M. Colling, London, Ontario; a brother, Allen Clark of Sioux City, Iowa; two sisters, Mrs. William Scott and Mrs. Emma Mack, Tillsonburg, and a granddaughter, Miss Pauline Colling, London, Ont. Another son, Guy Clark, served with the Canadian Forces in the last war and was killed at Passchendaele in 1917.  Mr. Clark’s son-in-law, Rev. Mr. Colling, is in England with the Canadian Forces at the present time. The funeral will take place from the Sifton Funeral Home, Wellington street, Wednesday afternoon, with service at two o’clock.  Interment will be make in the Tillsonburg cemetery.

Pte. James Henry Cole

675598

Henry Cole was born on November 14, 1896 in Vienna, the son of Charles W. Cole & Addie Eliza Sims.  Charles was born in Windham Township, Norfolk County, the son of Henry & Elizabeth Cole, and was a widower living there when he was married on November 12, 1888 in Delhi to Addie Sims, a native of South Norwich Township living in Windham, the daughter of Andrew & Mary Sims.

Henry was a labourer living with his parents in Beachville when he enlisted for service on February 13, 1916 in Ingersoll.  He joined the 168th Battalion.

Henry died on May 3, 1917 while serving with the 2nd Battalion of Canadian Infantry, Eastern Ontario Regiment.  His name appears on the Vimy Memorial.

Pte. Ryheo Morgan Cornwall

112031

Ryheo Morgan Cornwall was born at Avon in North Dorchester Township, Middlesex County, on November 10, 1894, the son of James Morgan Cornwall & Mary Evalene Hastings. Because Avon is located partly in South Dorchester Township, it was appropriate that Pte. Cornwall be included in this book.

James Cornwall was a miller. He died on May 20, 1897 at lot 4, concession 6, North Dorchester from pneumonia at the age of 36.  He is buried in the Old Delmer cemetery in Dereham Township, Oxford County.  His widow Eva was remarried on November 13, 1897 to John McCallum, of Avon.  Eva was the daughter of George Hastings & Sarah Kenney, and was born at Tillsonburg.

Other members of the family were James K. (1897 – 1935) & Lloyd Cornwall, and a step brother, Archie A. McCallum (1889 – 1920). [see listing for Pte. Archibald McCallum later in this volume]

Ryheo Morgan Cornwall enlisted for service on January 18, 1915 in St. Thomas.  He lists his next of kin as Eva Cornwall, of 43 Balaclava Street, St. Thomas.  It is presumed this is his mother, but her relationship to him is not stated.  Her married name by that time would have been McCallum.  Ryheo was a teamster and was not married.

Ryheo was wounded in France, but was brought back to Canada to a Toronto hospital where he died on May 30, 1917 at the age of 21.  He was serving with the 7th Division of Canadian Mounted Rifles.  

A clipping from the Toronto Star, May 30, 1917 gives more details:

Shot in France, Died Here

Pte. R. M. Cornwall, shot through the spine at Courcelette, died at the Spadina Hospital last night.  His mother lives in St. Thomas, where the interment will take place.

Information gathered later by the Veteran’s Affairs of Canada state that Ryheo’s mother was Mrs. Eva McCallum, of 3533 Parker Ave., Detroit, Michigan.

Ryheo’s death registration confirms the fact that he died at Spadina Military Hospital and that he was buried in St. Thomas.  He is buried in St. Thomas cemetery, West Ave., with his brother James and step brother Archie McCallum.  The inscription on the monument reads:

“Ryheo M. Cornwall, wounded at the battle of Courcellete Sept. 26, 1916; died May 30, 1917, aged 22 years” 

Notice of Rhyeo’s death appeared in the St. Thomas Daily Times, May 30, 1917:

PTE. R. CORNWALL, WOUNDED AT COURCELETTE, IS DEAD

Suffering Injury to His Spine, and Passes Away at Hospital in Toronto

Remains Will Be Brought Here for Burial and He Will Be Given Military Funeral

Pte. Ryheo Morgan Cornwall, a well-known St. Thomas young man, passed away last night at a hospital in Toronto after a long illness following injuries to his spine received in an engagement at the front in September last.

Pte. Cornwall was in hospitals in France and England for some months, but a few weeks ago was brought to Canada and placed in a soldiers’ hospital in Toronto, where his mother and other relatives visited him frequently.

Pte. Cornwall is a son of Mrs. Eva McCallum, 45 Forest avenue, St. Thomas, and was born at Avon, Ontario.  He had resided in St. Thomas the greater part of his life, attending school here. Prior to the outbreak of the war he was employed with the parcel delivery company here.

Pte. Cornwall enlisted early in the war and went overseas with the 1st Hussars, but in England was transferred to the 7th C.M.R., with which he went to the front.  He received his wounds in the battle of Courcellette. On April 24 last Pte. Cornwall was brought back to Canada and taken to the hospital in Toronto and never left his bed from that time. His mother was at Toronto with her son when he passed away.  Pte. Cornwall was 22 years of age and unmarried. He is survived by his mother, two brothers and one sister, namely, Ptes. James and Floyd in France, and Thelma at home. Pte. A McCallum, a prisoner of war in Germany; Cecil, of Windsor, and Wilfrid at home, are half-brothers, and Mrs. B. Graves is a half-sister.

R. Williams & Son, undertakers, received word on Wednesday that the body would arrive in the city on Wednesday evening at eight o’clock, via C.P.R.  Pte. Cornwall is the first overseas soldier to give his life for the Empire whose body has been brought to St. Thomas.  A military funeral will be held on Saturday afternoon at 2 o’clock. Although arrangements are not as yet complete, it is quite likely that the 25th band will be in attendance, and the Returned Soldiers’ Club will accompany the remains to the St. Thomas cemetery, where interment will take place. Pte. Cornwall was a member of the 25th Battalion for a short time, and it is likely that a number of his old associates will turn out for the funeral.

An account of his funeral was printed in the St. Thomas Daily Times, June 4, 1917:

FULL MILITARY HONORS ARE ACCORDED PTE. CORNWALL

With full military honors the remains of the late Pte. Ryheo Morgan Cornwall, son of Mrs. McCallum, 45 Forest Avenue, city, the first St. Thomas soldier in the present war to die in Canada of wounds received in France, were laid to rest in St. Thomas cemetery on Saturday.

The procession was witnessed by throngs of people who lined the streets from the family residence to the cemetery.  At the graveside there was scarcely a dry eye among the throngs of people who stood by while the “Last Post” was sounded by Bugler Richards and the volleys fired across the grave by the firing party from London.

The funeral was under the auspices of the military authorities of No. 1 Military District, who had secured a gun carriage and firing party from London headquarters.  On the arrival of the men from London they were met at the depot here by the 25th Elgin Regiment band and paraded to the former home of the dead hero.  Here a service was conducted by the Rev. H. T. Bates, who in glowing terms described the action of the deceased young man as “the greatest thing he could possibly have done”. The speaker stated that his young man had done more than any of us could realize, and he had not the slightest doubt that the Almighty would remember him and would give him a reward for his labors. He had gone forth in answer to the call from his earthly king to fight for a cause in which his Heavenly King and his rights were at take, and although he had been called away in the midst of it, he had done his part and had done what he could in the furtherance of the struggle.

The funeral procession then marched along Forest avenue to Ross, thence to Wellington and along Elgin street to West Avenue into the cemetery.  The casket, borne by the gun carriage supplied by the 63rd Battery of London and drawn by six horses, was draped with the Union Jack. The pallbearers were Corp. Chamberlain, Privates Kay, Brebner, Taylor, Jacks and Sanderson, all St. Thomas men and members of the Returned Soldiers’ Association. The floral bearers were Privates Jones and Ryan. The firing party partly were in charge of Sgt.-Major Grant of London.

The floral tributes were many, including a pillow with the word “Ryheo” from the family; a broken wheel from the Returned Soldiers’ Association; wreath from the Bell Telephone employees; a wreath from his east end friends; a cross from Balaclava and Malakoff street friends; basket of roses from his grandmother, uncles, aunts and cousins; two baskets of flowers from friends; sprays from Forest avenue Sunday school; Weston, Ont. And many others; cut lilies, from friends.  During the service at the house A. J. Hill sang a solo “Crossing the Bar”, accompanied by T. H. Nixon of Knox church.

The relatives present were: Mr and Mrs L. A. Hastings and Miss Thelma, Battle Creek, Mich; Thomas Buckel, Mount Elgin; H. Connor, Mrs. B. James, Mr and Mrs ElginMoore, Springfield; T. McClintock, Mr and Mrs Byron McClintock, Kingsmill; Mr and Mrs J. W. Cornish and family, Harrietsville; Mr and Mrs F. J .Bowes, Mr and Mrs J. T. Swartout, Mr and Mrs A. Cade and family, Avon; Mrs. M. Chivers, Miss S. McCallum, Belmont; Mr. Bowes, Mrs. Cornish, Mr and Mrs J. Stevens and family, London; Mrs. B. Graves, Matheson, New Ontario; C. McCallum, Windsor; Mrs. McAllister, Tillsonburg. There was large attendance

Private John William Cracknell

124098  John Cracknell

John William Cracknell was born on August 29, 1897 in London, England.  He emigrated to Canada as a “Home Child” with a party from the Fegan Home, leaving Liverpool on the ship Empress of Britain, on April 7, 1911, and arrived at St. John on April 14, 1911.  

John William is found in the 1911 census in Dunwich Township, Elgin County, living with Hugh & Mary Emma McPhail.  Prior to enlisting, it appears he also lived in the Kingsmill area, according to the newspaper accounts of his death.

John William Cracknell enlisted for service on October 13, 1915 in St. Thomas.  He gives his address as “care of Hugh McPhail, Iona Station”.  He names his next of kin as his mother, Mrs. Christina Cracknell, of 52 St. Stephens Street, Tottenham Court Road, London, England.  He was a farm labourer.  He enlisted with the 91st Battalion, and was later transferred to the 70th Battalion.

John William died on September 2, 1918 at the age of 20, while serving with the 75th Battalion of Canadian Infantry, Central Ontario Regiment. He is buried in Dury Mill British Cemetery, France.

Notice of Pte. Cracknell’s death, accompanied by a photograph, appeared in the St. Thomas Times-Journal, October 1, 1918.  The caption with the photo sates he enlisted from Kingsmill.  An article about him appeared in the same issue:

Pte. J. N. CRACKNELL KILLED IN ACTION

91st Man Was But 20 Years of Age; Was Formerly of Kingsmill

Word has been received by Miss Marie Farrah, formerly of Kingsmill, now of London, that Pte. J. N. Cracknell (124098) has been killed in action Sept. 1.  Pte. Cracknell was well taken in his battalion and had served a man’s part for his country.  He was but 20 years old August 29, having gone overseas with the 91st.  He was gassed in August 1917 and sent to England. Later he was sent back to France where he received his fatal wound.  His mother (his only relative living) resides as 35 Stephen street, Tottenham Court Road, London, W.C., England. The following letter from Lance-Corp. L. Preddy, a friend of the dead soldier, was also received by Miss Farrah:

“Dear Friend – I am writing with much regret to inform you of the death of your true friend 124098 Pte. W. Cracknell, who fell in action during the big offensive on Sept. 1, 1918.  It was while attacking a strong machine gun position that William fell with a bullet through the head.  You have my deepest sympathy in your loss.  L.C.L. Preddy”

A diary written by Pte. Cracknell describing the voyage of the 91st Battalion overseas in 1916 is found at the beginning of this volume.

Pte.  Richard Lazenby Obadiah Craven

105499

Richard Craven was born on April 2, 1887 in Toronto, the son of Lazenby Craven & Anne Leece.  They were married on March 18, 1873 in Laskey, King Township, York County.  Lazenby was born in 1836 in Yorkshire, England, the son of George & Margaret Craven, and was a farmer living in Vaughan Township, York County at the time of marriage.  Ann Leece (or Leese) was born in 1843 in Lancashire, England, the daughter of Henry & Mary Leece (or Leese).  She was also living in Vaughan when married.

The family moved to Middleton Township, Norfolk County about 1886, where a daughter Hattie May was born.  Another daughter, Mabel, was also born there in 1889.  It is therefore somewhat questionable if Richard was born in Toronto in 1887 as he states on his Attestation Paper.  His birth registration cannot be found, but it is more likely he was born in Norfolk County.  Lazenby Craven died on August 15, 1895 in London Township, Middlesex County at the age of 62, but is buried in Eden Cemetery in Bayham Township.  His wife Ann died at lot 22, concession 9, Bayham Township on May 14, 1916 at the age of 72.  She is also buried in Eden.  A brief death notice in the Aylmer Express, August 22, 1895 records the passing of Mr. Craven, of Eden.

Ann Craven is found on the 1901 census in Bayham (Div. 6, page 6), as a widow with five children: Thomas (1879), Elizabeth (1882), Obadiah (1883), Hattie M. (1887), and Mabel (1890).  The son Obadiah is Pte. Craven of this sketch, so there is a difference in the year of his birth.  If he was actually born in 1883, not 1887, then his place of birth was probably Toronto, not Norfolk County.

Ann is found on the 1911 census in Tillsonburg with son Thomas and daughter Mabel.

Richard L. Obadiah Craven enlisted for service on December 3, 1915 in Regina.  His address was General Delivery, Regina, Saskatchewan, and he names his next of kin as his mother, Mrs. Lazenby Craven, of Eden.  He was a farmer and was not married.

He died on September 15, 1916 at the age of 33 while serving with an Eastern Ontario Regiment of the Canadian Infantry. His name appears on the Vimy Memorial.

Private Herman Delbert Firby

124305

Herman Firby was born on March 31, 1897 in Corinth, the son of Ernest Herman Firby & Harriet Taylor.  Ernest was born in Bayham in 1879, the son of William Alonzo Firby & Annie Mitts, and was married there on May 27, 1896 to Harriet Taylor, born in 1878 in Rock Dale, England, living in Dereham Township, Oxford County, the daughter of William & Bertha Taylor.  Ernest & Harriet moved to Detroit where they were living at 256 15th Street when their son Herman enlisted.

Herman was a druggist living at 49 Church Street, Windsor when he enlisted for service on November 1, 1915 in Windsor.

He died on November 3, 1917 while serving with the 21st Battalion of Canadian Infantry, Eastern Ontario Regiment.  He name appears on the  Menin Gate (Ypres) Memorial, Belgium.

Sapper Clarence Spencer Hatch

Clarence Hatch was born on January 12, 1899 at Eden in Bayham Township, the son of Edward Allen Hatch & Ethel Caroline Spencer. Edward was the son of Levi & Mary J. Hatch and was farming in Bayham when he was married there on December 27, 1893 to Ethel Spencer, also of Bayham, the daughter of James & Caroline Spencer.

The family moved to Chatham where they were living at 178 Park Avenue East when Clarence enlisted for service on May 29, 1918 in London. He was employed as a dairyman.

Clarence died on October 11, 1918 at the age of 19 while serving with the 3rd Railway Battalion of the Canadian Engineers.  He is buried in Seaford Cemetery, Sussex, England.

Notice of Clarence’s death appeared in the Aylmer Express, October 24, 1918, in the Maple Grove news column:

The sad news we received here recently of the death of Clarence Hatch, who died in England on pneumonia.  The deceased’s parents, Mr and Mrs Allen Hatch, and one sister, Miss Gertie Hatch, reside in Chatham, where they moved from here only a few years ago. The bereaved family have the sincere sympathy of a host of friends in their sad bereavement.

Pte. William Rupert Henry

401217

William  Rupert Henry was born on May 12, 1898 in North Dorchester Township, Middlesex County (Belmont), the son of William John Henry & Mary Rosetta (Rose) Shaw, who were married on December 2, 1897 in Middlesex County.  William was born about 1876 in Belmont , the son of William & Mary Henry, and was living in Yarmouth at the time of his marriage. Rose Shaw was also born about 1876 in England, the daughter of William Henry Shaw & Mary Cacutt,  and was living in Yarmouth when married.

William John Henry died on January 18, 1905 at concession 6, Westminster Township, from consumption.  He was a boiler maker at the time of his death at age 29. 

Rose was remarried on March 23, 1907 in Belmont to Herbert Havelock Rusling.  They are found on the 1911 census in Yarmouth Township (Div. 5, page 7).  Living with them are Rose’s children, Rupert & Tena Irene Henry (born 1900).

William Rupert Henry enlisted for service on July 20, 1915 in St. Thomas.  He lists his next of kin as his mother, Mrs. Rose Rusling, of Fairview Ave., St. Thomas. He was a labourer and was not married.  He had one year previous militia experience with the 25th Regiment.

He died on June 16, 1916 at the age of 18, while serving with the 5th Canadian Mounted Rifles, Quebec Regiment.  He is buried in Etaples Military Cemetery, France.

Notice of his death appeared in the St. Thomas Journal, June 19, 1916:

PTE. RUPERT HENRY DIES OF HIS WOUNDS

Former Yarmouth Heights Man Makes Supreme Sacrifice
Was With 33rd Battalion Draft – Aged 18

Word has been received here by Mrs. Rose Rusling, Fairview avenue, Yarmouth Heights, of the death from wounds of her only son, Pte. Wm. Rupert Henry, on June 17.  Mrs. Rusling had been notified some time ago of the wounding of her son at Ypres.  He had been taken to No. 4 hospital at Camiers.  It was feared at the time that the wounds were severe and that he might not survive and the dreaded news was received.  Pte. Henry enlisted here on July 20th 1915, and was drafted into the 33rd Battalion.  He was only 18 years of age and had been one year in the 25th Regiment.  He was born at Belmont.

Pte. Garfield Kaar

189608  Garfield Kaar

Garfield Kaar was born on February 23, 1897 in Dereham Township, Oxford County, the son of William H. Kaar & Sarah Josephine Rathburn.  William was a brick or tile maker and the family lived in Brownsville.  William was born in Dereham in 1861, the son of William Kaar & Mary Sites.  Garfield’s mother died on February 24, 1900 at lot 21, concession 11 Dereham, and William was remarried on April 3, 1901 in Springfield to Hannah Robinson Bolton.   .

The family is found in the Dereham Township census in 1901 (Div. 6, page 7), and 1911 (Div. 6, page 9).  Other members of the family were: John (1883), Sarah Elizabeth (1885), William (1887), Frank (1889), Lillie May (1891), and Harry (1892).

Garfield enlisted for service on December 10, 1915 in St. Thomas.  He was living at 46 Barnes Street, St. Thomas, and lists his next of kin as his father, William, of Brownsville.  Garfield was a brickmaker and was not married.

He died on May 3, 1917 at the age of 20, while serving with the 2nd Battalion of Canadian Infantry, Eastern Ontario Regiment.  His name appears on the Vimy Memorial in France.

Notice of Garfield’s death was reported in the St. Thomas Daily Times, May 22, 1917:

PTE. G. CARR, 91ST, KILLED

Former Resident of City and Native of Brownsville

Word has been received of another St. Thomas man who has made the supreme sacrifice on the battlefield of Flanders in the person of Pte. Garfield Carr, a native of Brownsville who enlisted here with the 91st Battalion.  He had resided here for some time prior to enlisting, being employed by Charles Riddle.  The official message was delivered to his father William Carr, of Brantford, and was forwarded here to Mrs. George Vaughn, Barnes Street, with whom the deceased resided. When in the city Pte. Carr, was 20 years of age and unmarried. He had seen no previous service. He was considered a most efficient workman and was well known in the city.  Besides his father he is survived by two brothers and two sisters, namely: Frank Carr of Brantford; Pte. William Carr, who is now in France with a Winnipeg battalion; Mrs. Nelson Crossett of Tillsonburg, whose husband is attached to the 168th battalion, and Mrs. Fred Burnett, of Brantford, whose husband is also attached to the 168th battalion.

A photo of William Kaar was published in the St. Thomas Daily Times, May 26, 1917 with the following caption: “Died on Field of Honor”.

Garfield’s father William died in 1949, and he and his two wives are buried in Springfield Cemetery.  Garfield’s name also appears on the monument.

Pte.  Roy Kallar

171493  Roy Kallar

Roy Kallar was born on June 18, 1892 in Tillsonburg, the son of Leonard & Rebecca Kallar.  His mother was widowed and living in South Norwich Township, Oxford County on the 1901 census (Div. 5, page3).  Living with her were two sons, William H. (1882), and Walter B. (1889).

Roy was married on December 1, 1913 in Toronto, to Irene Gladys Gillespie, of Toronto.  Roy was a broom maker, and was living in Toronto at the time of his marriage.

Roy enlisted for service on August 9, 1915 in Toronto. He lists his wife Irene as his next of kin, living at 420 Jones Ave., Toronto.  He enlisted with the 83rd Overseas Battalion.

Roy was first reported missing in action in the Toronto Star, October 26, 1916, accompanied by a photograph:

PTE. R. KALLAR MISSING

Pte. Roy Kallar, 420 Jones avenue, has been missing since September 16. Regularly four times a week he wrote to his wife, but no letter has been received of later date that Sept. 10. He went overseas in the 83rd, was drafted to the C.M.R., and has been in France since June. He is 24 years of age, Canadian born, and by trade a broom maker.  Two telegrams announcing the casualty were received at his Toronto home, but evidently they were duplications by the local despatching office. Mrs. Gillespie, his wife’s mother, has a brother in the 83rd.  Her husband also enlisted in the same unit, but was finally discharged because of sickness.

He died on September 16, 1916 while serving with the 4th Canadian Rifles, 2nd Central Ontario Regiment.  He is buried in Courcelette British Cemetery, Somme, France.

Notice of his death appeared in the St. Thomas Daily Times, March 30, 1917:

PTE. KALLAR WAS KILLED IN ACTION

Former St. Thomas Man Had Been Missing Since Sept. 16

Relatives Thought Him Alive

Pte. R. Kallar, a former St. Thomas man, but who moved to Toronto some four years ago and who later joined with the 83rd Battalion at that place and who was reported missing during last September, has now been officially reported killed in action.

This sad news was brought back to St. Thomas from Toronto by Mrs. M. Swisher, Hughes street, his mother, who was at that place visiting her daughter-in-law when the unwelcome news arrived.  The message was from headquarters in England and at the Red Cross Association’s head offices in England, where enquiries had been made as to the missing soldier’s whereabouts. Two communications were received also from members of the 4th C.M.R. who were at the scene of the accident, stating that Pte. Kallar was killed in action on September 16.

Pte. Kallar (171493) when in the city was employed at the factory of Thomas Brothers Limited, and when that concern closed up he went to Toronto, where he obtained employment as a broom maker in the Beck factory.  In August 1914, he enlisted in the 83rd Battalion. On arrival in England, however, he was transferred to the 4th C.M.R., and was with that unit in France when he met his death.

He leaves to mourn his loss his wife and one small child, who reside at 420 Jones avenue, Toronto. The news of his death comes as a far greater shock to his wife owing to the fact that only a week ago she received a message stating that he was with his battalion in France and directing her to write to him at his old address. This she did, but within a week afterwards the news of his death came.

Pte. Thomas Charles Kneller

189924

Thomas Kneller was born on September 3, 1895 in London, England, the son of Thomas Godfrey & Sarah Kate Worster.  The family is found on the 1901 England census living at 170 Katherine Road, East Ham Parish, Essex County.  Thomas Kneller Sr. (born ca 1871) is a dock labourer, born in Stepney, London.  His wife Sarah Kate was born about 1873 in Hallans, Hertfordshire.  Besides Thomas Jr., other members of the family were: Rosina (1891), Eleanor (1893), and Albert (1898).  The census indicates that Thomas Jr. was born in East Ham, Essex.

Thomas Charles Kneller is found on the 1911 census in Woodhouse Township, Norfolk County (Div. 2, page 10), a labourer living with John & Emma Chadwick. The census states he emigrated to Canada in 1901.  His brother Albert also emigrated and was living in Walsingham Township, Norfolk County as a hired boy.  It appears their parents did not accompany them to Canada at this time.

Thomas enlisted for service on January 29, 1916 in St. Thomas.  He gives his address as Aylmer West, Ontario.  He lists his next of kin as his mother, Sarah Kate Kneller of Walsingham Centre, Ontario.  He was a farmer and was not married.

Information gathered by the Veterans Affairs of Canada following Thomas’ death states his parents names were Thomas Godfrey Kneller and Kate Worster of Clear Creek, Norfolk County, and that his brother also served in the war.

Thomas died on November 18, 1916 at the age of 21, while serving with the 38th Battalion of Canadian Infantry, Eastern Ontario Regiment.  His name appears on the Vimy Memorial in France.

Captain William Franklin Luton

4082534  William Luton

William Luton was born on December 10, 1888 in Mapleton, Ontario, the son of William Franklin Luton & Elizabeth Jane Cline, who were married on May 27, 1873 in South Dorchester.  William was born June 9, 1848 in Mapleton, the son of William Luton & Eliza Crane, and was living in Yarmouth at the time of his marriage.  Elizabeth Jane Cline was born about 1865, the daughter of Jacob & Elizabeth Cline.  She was living in South Dorchester when married.

Elizabeth Jane (Jennie) Luton died on May 29, 1895 in her 40th year and is buried in Necropolis Cemetery in South Dorchester.  William was remarried to Alma Wilcox who appears with him on the 1911 census.

The family is found in the Yarmouth Township census in 1901 (Div. 7, page 8), and in 1911 (Div. 23, page 5).  Other members of the family were: George R. (1880); Mahlon F. (1883), and Robert Marsden (1891).

William Franklin Luton became a physician, and was living in British Columbia when he was recruited for service.  Two attestation papers exist for William.  One gives his address as Obemanus, British Columbia, dated December 3, 1917 in Vancouver.  He gives his religion as the Christian Church, and names his next of kin as his father, William F. Luton, of St. Thomas.  He was a member of the active militia for 7 months in 1916, the C.A.M.C.  His occupation is given as physician.

A second paper, dated July 1, 1918 at Victoria, B.C.,  gives William’s address as 1st Depot Battalion, Vancouver, and his father’s address as 79 Stanley Street, St. Thomas.  It states he has been an active member of the C.A.M.C. from 1915 to July 1, 1918.

William died on October 20, 1918 while serving with the Canadian Army Medical Corps.  He is buried in the British (Canford) Cemetery, Gloucestershire, England.

Notice of William’s death, accompanied by a photograph, appeared in the St. Thomas Times-Journal, October 31, 1918:

CAPT. WM. F. LUTON DEAD OF PNEUMONIA

In English Hospital; Went Overseas with A.M.C. From Vancouver

Practiced in St. Thomas

Capt. William Franklin Luton, M.D., who went overseas with the A.M.C. in September, son of Governor William F. Luton of the Elgin county jail, has died of pneumonia in hospital at Bristol, England, after a brief illness, was the sad message received by his father Tuesday morning.  Capt. Luton, born in Yarmouth 29 years ago, graduated in medicine from Western University, London, and practiced in St. Thomas for one year, during which time he was physician to the county house of industry.  He moved to Vancouver, B.C., seven years ago, where he has been practicing until he left for overseas in September with the Army Medical Corps from Vancouver.  Besides his father, he leaves four brothers and one sister: Major R. M. Luton, M.D., who, after serving three years in France is now in charge of a military hospital at Fredericton, N.B.; Dr. Geo. R. Luton, formerly of Santa Barbara, Cal., now a medical officer overseas; Dr. H. H. Luton, of Grand Rapids, Mich.; Mahlon Luton, of California, and Mrs. Appleford, of Seattle.

William’s father was employed as the Governor of the Jail in St. Thomas, and died on June 21, 1928 at the age of 80.  He is buried in Necropolis Cemetery in South Dorchester with his wives Jennie & Alma.

William’s obituary appeared in the St. Thomas Times-Journal, June 21, 1928:

F. LUTON, GOVERNOR OF ELGIN JAIL, DEAD; HAD A BUSY CAREER

Won Historic Contest for Wardenship; Held Progressive Ideas; Native of Yarmouth

The courthouse flag is flying at half-mast today in mourning for William Franklin Luton, governor of the Elgin county jail, who died at his residence in Stanley street, about five o’clock this morning.  Governor Luton was eighty years old on June 9 and was born on the old homestead, just off the Edgeware road at Mapleton.  He had been ill for several months. [a paragraph omitted here deals with his political accomplishments on County Council]

Born on the old Luton homestead at Mapleton, Governor Luton was a true son of Yarmouth township in every sense of the word. He attended the little red school near his birthplace; he grew up into manhood there and he evidenced his love for his old home by retaining possession of it until the end.  Governor Luton’s idea of a pleasant holiday from official duties was to spend a day or two on his farm.  As a farmer he also gained a reputation for progressiveness.

The year 1890 marked Governor Luton’s introduction to the Elgin County Council as Yarmouth’s representative. The old 28-member system referred to in his address as warden was in vogue then, continuing until about 1897. Governor Luton was returned to the County Council in 1891 and 1892 and was re-elected in 1893.  

An eight-year retirement from municipal life followed, then in 1903 he again permitted his name to go before the electors and he was chosen as one of Yarmouth’s two representatives under the district system.  He was returned in 1904, 1905 and 1906, permanently retiring from municipal politics with the expiration of his term of wardenship. In September 1912 he was appointed governor of the Elgin county jail, an office which he had filled honorably and faithfully during the last 16 years.

Although municipal and official work demanded much of his time and attention, Governor Luton was essentially a home-loving man. He was a devoted husband and took a just pride in his children. The fact that three of his five sons were trained to the medical profession while a fourth is practicing dentistry is evidence of the importance that Governor Luton attached to a professional training for young men and of the sacrifices that he made in order to provide his children with liberal education.  He gave a son to the cause of world freedom in the Great War, a very promising medical career being closed with the death of Dr. W. F. Luton while en route to England with his military unit.  Governor Luton’s youngest son, Major Robert M. Luton, M.D., of Toronto, served through the war with distinction and has remained in military service, returning from a special training course in England about a year ago. The other children are: Dr. George Luton, of Los Angeles; Mahlon Luton, a prominent oil man of California; Dr. Harry Luton, of Grand Rapids, Mich.; and Mrs. Mabel Appleford, of Los Angeles.

Pte. Clarence Mackenzie

475383  Clarence McKenzie

Clarence Mackenzie was born on February 6, 1897 at Glencolin, in Malahide Township, the son of John Alex Mackenzie & Elmina Staley, who were married on March 17, 1896 in Aylmer.  John Mackenzie was born about 1877 in Springfield, the son of David & Huldah Mackenzie.  At the time of his marriage, he was living in Glencolin, a school teacher.  Elmina Staley was born about 1879 in Glencolin, the daughter of John M. & Elizabeth Staley.

The family is found on the 1901 census in Aylmer (Div. 1, page 6), where John’s occupation is given as “artist”.  Besides Clarence, other children born to them while living in Malahide & Aylmer were: Violet (1899) and John William (1901).  John’s birth registration in Aylmer states his father is a photographer.

The family moved to Toronto in the early 1900’s, where three more children were born: Walter Rolph (1905);  Flora May (1907); and Helen (1911).  They lived at 139 Spruce Street, Toronto, when Walter & Flora were born.  They are found on the 1911 census in Toronto (Ward 3, page 21), living at 61 Woodlawn Ave., where John is an architect.

Clarence enlisted for service on October 4, 1915 in Toronto.  He names his next of kin as his mother, Elmina Mackenzie of 61 Woodlawn Ave.  He was a student at McMaster Univeristy, studying to become a Baptist minister,  and was not married.

Clarence died on April 9, 1917 at the age of 20, while serving with the 27th Battalion of Canadian Infantry, Manitoba Regiment. His name appears on the Vimy Memorial in France.

Notice of his death appeared in the Toronto Star, April 27, 1917:

PTE. MACKENZIE KILLED

Mr and Mrs J. A. MacKenzie, of 61 Woodlawn Ave., have received word that their son, Pte. Clarence MacKenzie was killed in action on April 9th. He was champion athlete of Jarvis St. Collegiate, a great favorite at the Central Y.M.C.A., and a member of Bloor St. Baptist church.  He was in his second year, studying for the Baptist ministry when he enlisted with the 4th University Company at McGill University. Pte. MacKenzie was previously wounded when serving in a machine gun section in France, and had been back in the trenches for some time.  He was 20 years old, born near Springfield, Ont., but lived nearly all his life in Toronto. His father, an architect, is captain of “D” Co. York Rangers, and a brother, William, sergeant-major of York Rangers Cadet Co.

Notice of Clarence’s death also appeared in the St. Thomas Daily Times, April 25, 1917. His photograph was published in the April 27, 1917 issue.

PTE. C. McKENZIE FALLS IN ACTION

Grandson of Mrs. D. McKenzie, Jackson Street

Was Formerly Student at McMaster University

Mrs. D. McKenzie, Jackson street, on Tuesday evening received word that her grandson, Pte. Clarence McKenzie, had been officially reported killed in action on April 9, presumably at the opening of the battle for Vimy Ridge.  Pte. McKenzie was exceedingly well-known in St. Thomas, having spent his summer holiday here for several years, and was very popular.  The deceased soldier was 20 years of age and was a son of John A. McKenzie, architect, of Toronto, who with his family left St. Thomas about 15 years ago.  He was born in Aylmer, his father at the time being a school teacher there. While attending the Collegiate Institute in Toronto, Pte. McKenzie was captain of the cadets and was a leading figure in all athletic events. At the time of his enlistment in the machine gun section of the Princess Patricia Regiment in Sept. 1915, he was studying at McMaster University for the ministry.  Dr. C. McKenzie of Shedden, Roy McKenzie of Toronto, at present visiting in the city, and Frank McKenzie, Toronto, are uncles and Mrs. Gordon McLean and Miss Nellie McKenzie, city, are aunts of the deceased.

Private James Mansfield

2021710

James Mansfield was born on September 4, 1885 in Aylmer, the son of James Mansfield.  James was a labourer, not married, living in Nelson, British Columbia when he was recruited for service on February 18, 1918 in Vancouver, following a medical exam in Nelson on October 18, 1917.  He names his next of kin as his father, James Mansfield, of Aylmer.

James died on October 11, 1918 while serving with the Canadian Infantry, Central Ontario Regiment, 20th Battalion.  He is buried in Niagara Cemetery, Iwuy, Nord, France.

No further information can be found on his parents.

Private William Edgar Martin

408842

Edgar Martin was born on February 11, 1896 in Charlotteville Township, Norfolk County, the son of John Albert Martin & Mary Agnes Mason.  John was the son of Joseph & Sarah Martin, and was farming in Charlotteville when he was married on September 16, 1891 in Bayham to Mary Agnes Mason, of Bayham, daughter of William & Sarah Mason.  They lived at St. Williams.

Edgar was living in Aylmer on the 1911 census with his uncle & aunt, Thomas H. & Winnifred Mason.  He attended high school in Aylmer, and his name appears on the Honor Roll unveiled at the High School in 1918.

Edgar was a farmer, probably living in St. Williams with his parents, when he enlisted for service on June 7, 1915 in Niagara.

Edgar died on August 12, 1916 at the age of 20 while serving with the Canadian Infantry, B Company, 60th Battalion.  His name appears on the Menin Gate (Ypres) Memorial in Belgium.

Pte. Archibald McCallum

27514  Archibald McCallum

Archibald Ambrose McCallum was born on August 19, 1889 at Avon, the son of John McCallum & Margaret Ann Wallace, who were married on February 5, 1889 in Ingersoll.  John was a widower living in North Dorchester, the son of John & Caroline McCallum.  Margaret was also a resident of North Dorchester, the daughter of William & Jennet Wallace.  

Margaret Ann McCallum died in North Dorchester on April 24, 1896 at the age of 30.  John was remarried in 1897 to Eva Hastings Cornwall, a widow. Pte. Ryheo Cornwall, also found in this volume, was her son.

John McCallum and his second wife Eva are found on the 1901 North Dorchester Township census (Div. 8, page 1).  Other members of the family were: Jeanette Grace (1891); Levi [?] (1895); Cecil (1896); Floyd (1897); James (1899), and Harley (1901).

Archibald enlisted for service on September 8, 1914 at Valcartier.  He lists his next of kin as Cecil McCallum. Although no relationship is given, this is probably his brother Cecil.  Archibald was a farmer and was not married.  He had previous militia experience, serving seven months in the 3rd Battalion.

Archibald served with the 15th Battalion of Canadian Infantry in a Central Ontario Regiment.  He returned from the war, but died on March 15, 1920.  He had been in a Sanitarium in London for three months prior to his death.  He died from tuberculosis of the bowel, which he had for one year. He died in London Township at the age of 30.  He is buried in St. Thomas cemetery in the same plot at his step brother, Rhyeo Cornwall.

His death was reported in the St. Thomas Times-Journal, March 16, 1920, accompanied by his photograph:

WAR PRISONER THREE YEARS DIES AT BYRON

Archie A. McCallum, Son of Mr and Mrs John McCallum, 7 Myrtle Street, West Overseas

With 48th Highlanders First Year of the War

The very sad death occurred on Monday afternoon of Archie A. McCallum of this city, who passed away after a long illness in Byron Sanitarium, London, in his thirtieth year. The deceased, who enlisted with the 48th Highlanders in 1914 had had an interesting but trying war career.  He was taken prisoner by the Germans in April, 1915, being released after three years and eight months, and returning home last March. He leaves to mourn his death his parents, Mr and Mrs John McCallum, 7 Myrtle street; four brothers, Cecil J. and Wilfred, at home, and Floyd and James in Detroit; and two sisters, Mrs. D. Graves, of Madison, New Ontario; and Miss Thelma, at home.  Pte. Ryheo Cornwall, a half-brother of the deceased, was wounded so seriously in the war that he died after being brought back to Canada.  He was accorded a military funeral.  The deceased was an honored member of St. Thomas Lodge, No. 76, I.O.O.F.  The remains will be brought to the city Tuesday afternoon and will be taken to the residence of his parents, from where the funeral will take place on Friday afternoon at two o’clock to the St. Thomas Cemetery.

Private Harold Gordon McDonald

830620

Harold Gordon McDonald was born on July 26, 1897 in Aylmer, the son of Edward L. McDonald & Esther Hicks, who were married on October 13, 1895 in Otterville, Oxford County.  Edward was born in Langton, son of James & Julia McDonald and was living there when married.  Esther was born in Middleton Township, daughter of Henry & Jane Hicks, and also living in Langton.  The family is found on the 1901 census in Walsingham Township, where Edward is a clerk in a store.

The family moved to the Canadian West, where Harold was living at Waverley House, Winnipeg, employed as a mechanic, when he enlisted for service on January 17, 1916 in Winnipeg.  He names his next of kin as his father, of 1925 Smith Street, Regina, Saskatchewan.

Harold died on April 10, 1917 while serving with the Canadian Infantry, Manitoba Regiment, 44th Battalion, at the age of 19 years. His name appears on the Vimy Memorial.  

Pte. William Cecil McGrath

730237  William McGrath

William Cecil McGrath was born on April 14, 1890 in Belmont, the son of John McGrath & Hannah Gertrude Upfold, who were married in Woodstock on November 14, 1888.  John was born in London, Ontario in 1859, the son of John & Margaret McGrath, but living in Belmont at the time of his marriage, a merchant tailor.  Hannah was born about 1860 in West Oxford Township, but was living in Dereham Township, Oxford County when she was married.  She was the daughter of Ambrose & Caroline Upfold.  

William’s birth registration gives his place of birth as Westminster Township, but the family is found on the 1901 census in North Dorchester Township (Div. 5, page 9).  William is the only child listed with John & Hannah on the census. The family moved to Galt prior to 1915 when William enlisted.

William enlisted for service on December 17, 1915 in Galt.  He was living at 21 Ainslie Street in Galt.  He names his father, John McGrath, as his next of kin, living at the same address.  William was a clerk and was not married.

William died on April 9, 1917 at the age of 27, while serving with the 4th Battalion of Canadian Infantry, Central Ontario Regiment.  His name appears on the Vimy Memorial in France.

Notice of William’s death appeared in the St. Thomas Daily Times, June 13, 1917:

NATIVE OF BELMONT

Pte. W. C. McGrath Reported Killed in Action

Galt, June 13 – On May 7 last, Pte. William Cecil McGrath, 730237, eldest son of John McGrath, 21 Ainslie street south, was reported wounded in action on April 9, and yesterday he was officially reported killed on that date. Had he lived until April 14, he would have been 27 years of age.  He was born in Belmont, Ont., but had never resided in Galt, only visiting his father here. He came to Galt from the west to enlist with the South Waterloo Battalion, and had been in France since the beginning of the year.  He was single, and besides his father is survived by a 14 year-old brother, Harold.

A photo of William appeared in the St. Thomas Daily Times, June 30, 1917 with the caption “Died on Field of Honor”.

Private Archibald Nellis Peters

186663   

Archibald Peters was born on June 21, 1896 at Avon, the son of George Martin & Margaret Peters.  They are found on the 1901 South Dorchester census, with the following children: Frederick G., Alexander, Mary Ann, Archie & Margaret.  The family moved to Port Dalhousie in Grantham Township, Lincoln County where George was living in 1915.

Archibald Peters was a farmer living in Birds Hill, Manitoba when he enlisted for service on November 15, 1915 in Winnipeg.  He names his next of kin as his father, George, of Port Dalhousie.

He died on August 15, 1917 while serving with the 8th Battalion of Canadian Infantry (Manitoba Regiment).  He is buried in Orpington All Saints Churchyard Extension, Kent, England.

Corporal Frederick Milburn Rhodes

2250334

There are two attestation papers for Frederick Rhodes, with conflicting information.  He first enlisted for service on July 3, 1916 in Haileybury with the 159th Battalion.  His service number was 649480.  He gives his address as Box 421, New Liskeard.  He states he was born in Dungannon, County Tyrone, Ireland on April 24, 1872.  He was a prospector and a widower. He names his next of kin as his daughter, Madeline Talberta Rhodes, of the same address.  He had served twelve years in the 35th Regiment of Canadian Militia, and belongs to the 97th Regiment. 

His birth place given as Ireland is believed to be inaccurate.  His father was born in Michigan, and the 1881 census shows Frederick was born in Ontario.

The second attestation paper is dated February 17, 1917 in Iroquois Falls.  His service number is 2250334, and his address is Matheson, Ontario.  He states he was born on April 24, 1869 in Port Burwell.  He is a lumberman and a widower, and again names his daughter Madeleine of the same address as next of kin.  He had served in the 159th Overseas Battalion, C.E.F.

The family is found on the 1881 census in Tillsonburg.  Fredericks’ father’s name was Robert, age 34, born in the United States, a mason.  His wife is Rachel, age 33, born in Ontario.  Son Fred is 12, and born in Ontario.  Fred’s father, Robert William Rhodes, died on January 7, 1927 in Cochrane, Ontario.  He was born in Michigan in 1846, the son of William Rhodes (born in England) and Jane Ball (born in Canada).  He was a merchant, and is buried in Matheson, Ontario.

Frederick Rhodes was married to Margaret McReynolds, who died on September 15, 1914 in New Liskeard.  They had one daughter Madeline Alberta Rhodes, born November 12, 1901 in Sinclair Township, District of Muskoka.

Frederick died on May 31, 1918 while serving with the 105th Company of Canadian Forestry Corps.  He is buried in Great Torrington Cemetery, Devon, England.

Private Robert Edwin Richey

675965

Robert Richey was born on August 26, 1889 in Hallymont (Holly Mount), Ballydugan, County Down, Ireland, the son of William & Annie Richey. Very little information can be found on him, but he was a farmer living at Springfield when he enlisted for service on May 26, 1916 in Tillsonburg.  He names his next of kin as his mother, Annie Richey, of Hallymont, County Down, Ireland.  He had served four years in the Irish Horse.

Robert was died on May 5, 1917 at the age of 27, while serving with the 2nd Battalion of Canadian Infantry, Eastern Ontario Regiment.  He is buried in Aubigny Communal Cemetery Extension, Pas de Calais, France.

Pte. Walter Lorne Robbins

1045324  Walter Robbins

Walter Lorne Robbins was born on June 11, 1898 in Aylmer, Malahide Township, the son of Charles Andrew Robbins & Anna Laura North, who were married on June 30, 1897 in Aylmer.  Charles was born in 1877 in Woodhouse Township, Norfolk County, the son of William & Sarah, and was living in Aylmer when married.  Annie North was born in 1873 in Aylmer, the daughter of John & Elizabeth, and was residing in Aylmer at the time of her marriage.

The family is found on the 1901 Malahide census (Div. 4, page 12), where Charles is a farm labourer.  By 1911 they had moved to St. Thomas, where they appear on the census (Div. 3, page 19). Charles is employed as a teamster.  

Other members of the family were: Harry Frederick (1899), Hattie May (1901), Pearl (1904), and Dollie Mabel (1906).  At the time of Dollie’s birth, the family was living at 39 Malakoff St., St. Thomas, where Charles was a fireman on the railroad.

Lorne Robbins enlisted for service on September 13, 1916 in St. Thomas.  He was living at 216 Centre Street, St. Thomas.  He lists his next of kin as his mother, Mrs. Annie Robbins, at the same address.  He was a miller and was not married.

Lorne died on May 8, 1918 while serving with the 20th Battalion of Canadian Infantry, Central Ontario Regiment.  He is buried in Bellacourt Military Cemetery in France.

Notice of Walter’s death appeared in the St. Thomas Times-Journal, May 20, 1918 [note the headline gives the incorrect name]:

PTE. CHARLES A. ROBBINS IS KILLED IN ACTION

Popular Young Man Formerly Employed in M.C.R. Roundhouse – Joined the Kilties

Mr and Mrs Charles A. Robbins, 216 Centre street, received official notice Sunday that their eldest son, Pte. Walter Lorne Robbins, had been killed in action in France.  Pte. Robbins enlisted with the 241st Kilties Battalion at Windsor and went overseas a year ago.  He had seen much fighting in France.  The late Pte. Robbins who was well-known and highly esteemed, was born in Aylmer, but had lived in St. Thomas for 16 years.  Prior to enlistment he was employed at the M. C. R. roundhouse.  He was unmarried and is survived by his parents, one brother, H. D. Robbins and three sisters, May, Pearl and Mabel, all at home.  The father is a Michigan Central towerman.  Mr and Mrs Robbins were spending Sunday in Aylmer when they received the news of their son’s sacrifice.  Mr. Robbins is suffering from a broken arm received while cranking his motor car recently.

Lorne’s father Charles died in 1949, and his mother died in 1956. They are buried in South Park Cemetery, St. Thomas.  Lorne’s name appears on the monument there: “Lorne W. Robbins, 1899 – 1918, died in France”.

Charles’ obituary appeared in the St. Thomas Times-Journal, July 6, 1949:

CHARLES A. ROBBINS, 71, PASSES SUDDENLY

Well-Known Resident Was Retired Tower Man at Moore Street

Retired tower man at the Moore street crossing, Charles Arthur Robbins, 216 Centre Street, passed away suddenly at his residence on Tuesday afternoon in his 71st year.  He had been ailing for some time.  Born at St. Williams on Oct. 12, 1877, he was a son of the late Mr and Mrs William Robbins. A resident of this city for the past 52 years, he had previously resided in Aylmer. He was a member of Grace United Church and Independent Order of Foresters.  His wife, Mrs. Annie (North) Robbins, survives.  Surviving besides his wife, are a son, Harry Robbins, Toronto; three daughters, Mrs. Alfred Slaght, Mimico; Mrs. John Kirkwood, 18 Hughes street; and Mrs. Albert Slaght, 218 Centre street; a brother, Lorne J. Robbins, and a sister, Mrs. Harry Bucke, both of Detroit. There are eight grandchildren and five great grandchildren also surviving.  A son, Walter Lorne Robbins, was killed at Vimy in World War 1.  Resting at the L. B. Sifton funeral home where the funeral will be held on Friday afternoon at three-thirty o’clock, with Rev. J. K. West, of Alma Street Presbyterian Church, conducting the services.  Interment will be in South Park cemetery.

Cecil John Robinson

53725

The date of Cecil’s death is unknown.  He is not found in records of the Veterans Affairs of Canada or the Commonwealth War Graves Commission.  However, the late Max Doan, who compiled a list of Elgin County’s War dead, includes a Cecil I. Robinson as among the casualties, possibly interred in France.

Although a “Cecil I. Robinson” could not be found, there is record of a “Cecil J. Robinson”. According to his Attestation Paper, Cecil J. Robinson was born on November 7, 1892 in Cleveland, Ohio, U.S.A.  He enlisted for service on October 31, 1914 in St. Thomas.  He lists his next of kin as his wife, Maud E. Robinson, of Aylmer.  He was a printer, and had served one year in the 30th Battalion of C.F.A.

Cecil was married in Toronto on June 16, 1911 to Maud Ethel Hudson, age 18, of Toronto.  She was the daughter of Joseph Hudson & Emily Murgatroyd.  Cecil was living in Toronto at the time of marriage, the son of John Robinson & Mary Louise Tassell.

Private Stanley Daniel Robinson

675092

Stanley Robinson was born on February 22, 1898 in Dereham Township, Oxford County, although on his Attestation paper he gives his place of birth as Avon.  He was the son of Daniel Robinson & Anna Wadie (Wady), who were married on March 10, 1884 at Muncey in Middlesex County. Daniel was born in North Dorchester, the son of John & Mary Elizabeth Robinson, while Anna was a resident of Strathroy, the daughter of James & Grace Wadie.  The family is found on the 1901 census in Dereham township.

Stanley was employed as a spinner when he enlisted for service on January 8, 1916 in Woodstock.  He names his next of kin as his father, of 720 Dundas Street, Woodstock.

Stanley died on December 8, 1916 while serving with the 4th Division of Canadian Pioneers.  He is buried in New Bedford (Evergreen) Cemetery in Pennsylvania.

Pte. George Rogers

123860

George Rogers’ name appears on a Roll of Honor (1914-1918) for Springfield, that was in the possession of Evelyn Hoshal, and is now part of the collection at the Aylmer Museum.

George enlisted for service on September 24, 1915 in St. Thomas.  He was born on December 3, 1897 in Liverpool, Lancashire, England.  He listed no next of kin, and stated there were none living.  He was a farmer and was not married.  

It is possible that George was a “home child”.  The immigration records for these children held by the National Archives of Canada show a George Rogers, age 9, who emigrated on the ship “Dominion”, leaving Liverpool on February 21, 1907, and arriving in Portland on March 5, 1907.  He was with a party from the Dr. Barnardo Home and their destination was Toronto.

On the 1911 census for Carden Township, Victoria County, there is a George Rogers, “home boy”, born December 1898, age 12, born in England, emigrated 1906.  He is living with Hiram & Elizabeth Snodden, farmers.  It is possible this is the same George, and that he made his way to the Springfield area sometime between 1911 and his enlistment in 1915.

George died on November 6, 1917 while serving with the 2nd Battalion of Canadian Infantry, Eastern Ontario Regiment.  He is buried in Hagle Dump Cemetery, Belgium.

Pte. Charles William Roloson

529114

Charles William Roloson was born on September 3, 1898 in Middleton Township, Norfolk County, the son of William Henry Roloson & Alma May Webber, who were married on February 19, 1895 in Vienna.  William was born in 1875 in Bayham Township, the son of Charles Roloson & Mary Millard.  Alma May Webber was born in 1880 in Bayham, the daughter of Calvin Webber & Mary Harner.  Both were living in Bayham at the time of marriage.

The family is found on the 1901 census in Dereham Township, Oxford County (Div. 6, page 6), and also in 1911 in Dereham (Div. 5, page 7).

Other members of the family were Edgar Llewelyn (1896, born in Bayham); Viola (1901); Gordon David (1903); Francis Parson (1906), and Lorne (1908).

Charles enlisted for service on April 10, 1917 in London.  He was living in Springfield at the time, and lists his next of kin as his father, William, of Springfield.  His occupation was farming, and he was not married.

Charles died while in training in London on July 23, 1917 at the age of 18 years and 7 months, from diphtheria, from which he had suffered ten days.  He was serving with the Canadian Army Medical Corps.

Charles is buried in Springfield cemetery, with a military marker bearing the following inscription:

“529114 Private – C. W. ROLOSON,  C.A.M.C.  C.E.F.  23 July 1917  aged 18 years 10 mos 20 days Our darling boy at rest”

Notice of Charles’ death appeared in the St. Thomas Journal, July 24, 1917:

PTE. CHARLES ROLOSON, FORMER SPRINGFIELD BOY, DIES IN LONDON

Springfield, July 24 – Mr and Mrs William Roloson, residents of this village, received word this morning from the military authorities at London that their son, Charles William Roloson, in training for some time as a Private at the London camp, was recently stricken with diphtheria and confined to the isolation hospital, had passed away Monday afternoon.  Will was only nineteen years of age and was a general favorite with his friends, while he resided with his parents here.  He had accepted the call to arms with enthusiasm and has been in training for some time at London.  William Roloson Sr., and Gordon Roloson, brother of the deceased, left for London last evening to make arrangement for the funeral.  It is probable that the funeral will take place on Tuesday, 24th, from McRidep’s on arrival of the afternoon train and interment will be in the Springfield cemetery.  He is survived by his parents and four brothers and one sister, Gordon, Francis, Lorne and Edgar, and Viola.  The bereaved family have the sympathy of the community.

An account of Charles funeral appeared in the St. Thomas Journal, July 25, 1917:

MILITARY HONORS FOR LATE PTE. ROLOSON

Full military honors were accorded at the funeral of Pte. Charles Roloson, a member of the A. M.C., whose death took place at the military hospital, Carling Heights, London, Monday, after a ten days’ illness from diphtheria.  The remains were shipped from Smith, Son & Clarke’s undertaking parlors via L & P.S., to St. Thomas, thence to his home in Springfield.  The A.M.C. pipe band headed the march to the London depot, all the members of the corps marching in a body . Six comrades acted as pall bearers.  Pte. Roloson was the youngest son of Mr and Mrs William Roloson of Springfield, and had only been in training a few months. Interment was made in Springfield cemetery.

Charles’ mother Alma died in 1963, while his father William reached the great age of 96, passing away in 1971.  They are buried in Springfield cemetery.

Pte. Leslie Harold Sadler

189443  Leslie Sadler

Leslie Harold Sadler was born on October 14, 1893 at Harrietsville in North Dorchester Township, Middlesex County, the son of William E. Sadler & Caroline Matilda Choate.  William was a farmer.

The family is found on the North Dorchester census in 1901 (Div. 7, page 4), and 1911 (Div. 4, page 5).  Other members of the family were: Warren (1886), Bertha (1891), James Wilfred (1892), Stanley Edward (1897), John M. (1898), Alice Mabel (1903), and Annie Elizabeth (1904).

Leslie enlisted for service on November 19, 1915 in St. Thomas.  He gives his date of birth as November 14, 1895, but his birth registration clearly states Oct. 14, 1893.  He enlisted with the 91st Battalion.  He names his next of kin as his father, William, of Mossley.  He was a farmer and was not married.

Leslie died on April 12, 1917 while serving with the 58th Battalion of Canadian Infantry, Central Ontario Regiment.  He is buried in La Chaudiere Military Cemetery in France.

Notice of Leslie’s death, accompanied by a photograph, appeared in the St. Thomas Daily Times, May 5,1917:

91st SOLDIER WHO DIED ON THE FIELD OF HONOR

Lance-Corp. L. H. Sadler (189443), son of Mr and Mrs Wm. Sadler of Harrietsville, was reported killed in action on April 12, somewhere in France. He enlisted with the 91st Battalion, St. Thomas, and since going overseas was transferred to the 58th Battalion. Lance-Corp. Sadler was twenty-two years of age, and prior to enlisting had lived in this vicinity all his life.  He was well-known and highly esteemed.  Deepest sympathy is extended to his parents, brothers and sisters at home, who mourn his loss.

Sapper Charlton Sebring

796612

Charlton Sebring was born on March 16, 1884 in Simcoe, the son of Spencer Sebring & Matilda Elliott.  Although not from Elgin County himself, Charlton was married on December 20, 1905 in South Dorchester to Sarah Amelia (Alma) Jane Shackleton, of South Dorchester, the daughter of Robert Shackleton & Laura Woolley.

Charlton was a moulder living in Simcoe when he enlisted for service there on January 31, 1916.  He belonged to the 39th Regiment.

He died on August 10, 1918 while serving with the 9th Battalion of Canadian Engineers.  He is buried in Beaucourt British Cemetery, France.

His widow Alma was remarried on October 8, 1919 in Simcoe to Anson Maitland Chambers. They are buried in Norwich Village cemetery, Norwich, Ontario.

Notice of Charlton’s death appeared in the St. Thomas Times-Journal, August 23, 1918:

WAR BEREAVES FORMER SPRINGFIELD GIRL

Pte. Charlton Sebring Killed in Action – Wife Formerly Miss Alma Shackleton

Springfield, Aug. 23 – Mrs. Jos. Campbell received yesterday that her son-in-law, Charlton Sebring, had been killed in action.  Mr. Sebring enlisted at Simcoe about two years ago.  Mrs. Campbell, Mrs. E. Row and John Shackleton left at once for Simcoe to be with the heart broken widow, formerly Miss Alma Shackleton.

Pte. Neil Sprague

190113  Neil Sprague

Neil Sprague was born on December 26, 1889 in Springfield, the son of John & Lucinda Sprague.  By 1901, the family had moved to Aldborough Township, where they are found on the census there (Div. 6, page 1).  Neil had one brother, Eli (born 1885).

On the 1911 census, Neil was living with his parents at 178 Richmond Street in London.  

Neil enlisted for service on March 25, 1916 in St. Thomas.  His address was 210 Talbot Street, St. Thomas, and he lists his next of kin as his mother, Lucinda, at the same address.  He was a labourer and was not married.

Neil died on June 13, 1918 at the age of 29, while serving with the 38th Battalion of Canadian Infantry, Eastern Ontario Regiment.  He is buried in Pernes British Cemetery in France.

The Veterans Affairs of Canada records state that he was a native of the Oneida Reserve, Middlesex County, Ontario.  The 1901 and 1911 census also indicate his origin was of the Oneida Tribe.

Notice of Neil’s death appeared in the St. Thomas Daily Times, June 20, 1918:

PTE. NEIL SPRAGUE OF 91ST BATT., DEAD

Mrs. Lucinda Sprague, 210 Centre Street, on Thursday morning, received the sad news that Pte. Neil Sprague who was recently reported dangerously ill at No. 6 Casualty Clearing station had died on wounds on June 18.  Pte. Sprague enlisted in the 91st Battalion and went overseas with that unit.  He was injured in the recent heavy fighting and according to the above message did not recover from his wounds.  Pte. Sprague was a native of Muncey.

Private Thomas McGregor Smith

466008

Thomas Smith was born on February 8, 1887 in Springfield, the son of Andrew D. Smith (1844-1929) & Ann Fothergill (1848-1896). The family moved to nearby Dereham Township, Oxford County in the Culloden district, where Andrew is found on the 1901 and 1911 census as a widower.  Other members of the family on the 1901 census were: David (1869); Mary J. (1884); and twins Allan & Ellen (1887).  Ann Fothergill Smith was born in Scotland, and died in Dereham on March 20, 1896 at the age of 47.  Andrew Smith was also born in Scotland, and died at lot 19, concession 11 Dereham Township on March 20, 1929.  They are buried in Delmer cemetery.

Thomas was employed as a steam engineer when he enlisted for service on July 17, 1915 in Edmonton.  He names his father A. D. Smith, of Culloden, as his next of kin.

Thomas died on April 9, 1917 at the age of 28 while serving with the 10th Battalion of Canadian Infantry, Alberta Regiment.  He is buried in Nine Elms Military Cemetery, France.

Corporal Avery Tilson Stoner

476045  Avery Stoner

Avery Tilson Stoner was born on July 30, 1894 in Malahide Township, the son of Jonas Stoner & Sophia Ball, who were married in Springfield on January 13, 1873.  Jonas was born in 1847, the son of Jacob & Melvina Stoner, and was living in Malahide at the time of his marriage.  Sophia Ball was born in 1852, the daughter of Charles & Caroline Ball, and was living in Bayham when married.

The family lived in Malahide for several years, then moved to Middleton Township, Norfolk County, where they are found on the 1901 census (Div. 4, page 1).  Jonas Stoner died on July 21, 1902 at lot 35, concession 2, Middleton Township, and is buried in Guysborough Cemetery, Bayham Township.  His widow and family moved to St. Thomas, where they are found on the 1911 census (Div. 34, page 6).

Other members of the family were: Nellie Olive (1875); Charlie C. (1878-1884); Ella Bertha (1879); George Ernest (1881); Stanley (1882), Edna M. (1885); Ada L. (1890), and Willard Cleveland (1891).

Avery enlisted for service on August 14, 1915 in Montreal.  He lists his next of kin as his sister, Miss Ella Stoner, of 42 Queen Street, St. Thomas.  He was a teller in the Canadian Bank of Commerce, and was not married.

Avery died on November 16, 1917 at the age of 23, while serving with Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry, Eastern Ontario Regiment.  His name appears on the Menin Gate (Ypres) Memorial in Belgium.

Avery’s mother Sophia died on January 22, 1912 at 73 Balaclava Street, St. Thomas, and is buried with her husband in Guysborough Cemetery.

Notice of Avery’s death appeared in the St. Thomas Daily Times, November 29, 1917, accompanied by a photograph with the following caption: 

THOMAS MAN WITH “PATS” IS KILLED

LANCE CORP. AVERY TILLSON STONER, former member of the Bank of Commerce staff here, and a well-known St. Thomas young man, who is reported killed in action. He was with the Princess Patricia Light Infantry.

The article on the same page reads as follows:

CORP. STONER FALLS IN ACTION

Former St. Thomas Bank Clerk Was With the Princess Patricia Light Infantry

According to advices received from military headquarters at Ottawa, Lance-Corporal Avery Tillson Stoner, 476045, a well-known St. Thomas man, who left here in 1915 to join the Princess Patricia’s Light Infantry at Montreal, has been killed in action, the fatality occurring on Nov. 16 last.

Lance-Corp. Stoner was well-known in St. Thomas, where he resided, making his home in Queen Street.  He attended Balaclava street school and later graduated to the Collegiate Institute.  After leaving the Collegiate he entered the employ of the Bank of Commerce here and was transferred to Crediton, and later to Ingersoll.  He returned to St. Thomas, however, in 1915, and went to Montreal to join the Princess Patricias.  He was training in England for about one month, arriving there in September 1915. After some time in the trenches, however, he was placed on the Princess Pats transport service, where he spent eleven months.  He then decided, however, to return to the infantry and had been in the trenches since last May. He was only in a hospital once during his period of service. At this time he was suffering from face poisoning sustained through washing in water which had been allowed to stand in a shell hole on the battlefield.

The deceased hero was one of St. Thomas’ best-known young men, and great regret is felt here at the sad news of his death.  He leaves to mourn his loss two brothers and three sisters, namely, S. M. Stoner, insurance and real estate agent, this city; Willard C. Stoner, of Detroit; Mrs. J. M. Couse, of Yarmouth; Misses Ada and Edna Stoner, of this city.

Pte. James Thomas Taylor

189568  James Taylor

James Thomas Taylor was born on January 15, 1894 in Rochdale, Lancashire, England, the son of Thomas E. & Harriet Taylor.

The family is found on the 1901 England census at 140 Vine Place, Rochdale Parish, Lancashire.  Thomas (born ca 1874 in Rochdale), is a general labourer.  Harriet, also born about 1874, is a charwoman.  James T. Taylor, age 6, is the only child enumerated with them.

James Thomas Taylor emigrated to Canada about 1911, and is found on the 1911 South Dorchester census (Div. 7, page 7), as a domestic living with David A. & Julia Woolley.

He enlisted for service with the 91st Battalion on November 24, 1915 at Springfield. He gives his address as R.R. #1 Springfield, and his next of kin as his mother, Harriet Taylor, of 6 Caldershaw Lane, Spotland near Rochdale, Lancashire, England.  He was a farmer and was not married.

He died on September 22, 1916 while serving with the 1st Battalion of Canadian Infantry, Western Ontario Regiment.  His name appears on the Vimy Memorial in France.

His photograph appeared in the St. Thomas Journal, October 14, 1916.  Notice of his death appeared in the Journal, November 10, 1916:

PTE. THOMAS TAYLOR DEAD; MEMBER OF 91ST

Resided With Mr and Mrs Woolley, Springfield For Several Years – Son is Mourned

Springfield, Nov. 10 – Mr and Mrs D. A. Woolley have received word of the death of Thomas Taylor, who left with the 91st Battalion. Tommy had lived with them several years and was almost like a son to them. Mrs. Woolley had a box of Christmas cheer packed ready to send, when the sad news came. Both Mr and Mrs Woolley feel his loss very keenly.

Pte. Thomas Wharton

467450

Thomas Wharton was born on October 11, 1871 in Cayuga, Haldimand County, the son of Thomas & Mary Ellen Wharton.  

Thomas’ parents later lived in Springfield, where they are found on the 1901 census (page 8).  Thomas was born on May 25, 1835 in Quebec, and died in Springfield on June 12, 1914.  His wife Mary was born September 9, 1838 in Ontario.  Other members of the family were: Arthur J. (1873); Ellen (1875) and George A. (1882).  Thomas & Mary are found on the 1911 census in Springfield (Div. 29, page 5).  He was employed as a well digger.

Thomas Wharton Jr. moved out west, and from the following articles, it appears the family lost track of him and did not know he was still alive.

He enlisted for service on October 18, 1915 in Edmonton. He names his next of kin as his father, Thomas, of Springfield.  It is apparent that he did not know his father had passed away the previous year.  Thomas was a carpenter and was not married.

He died on September 26, 1916 while serving with the 10th Battalion of Canadian Infantry, Alberta Regiment.  He is buried in Courcelette British Cemetery, Somme, France.

Notice of Thomas’ death in the war appeared in the St. Thomas Daily Times, January 31, 1917:

SPRINGFIELD MAN IS KILLED IN ACTION

Springfield, Jan. 31 – Mrs. Geo. Stewart received a long letter yesterday from A. J. Wharton, who is now at a convalescent home in St. Leonards on Sea, England.  Arthur was with the Strathcona Horse during the South African War.  As soon as the call came for men he enlisted and spent a year or so in the front line trenches before receiving injury.  His brother, Thomas, who went West some years ago, and whom his family supposed dead, was killed not far from where Arthur was wounded.  Arthur, however, was unaware that his brother was in the battle until he learned the news after reaching England.

Thomas Wharton Sr. is buried in Springfield cemetery, but there is no monument. His obituary appeared in the St. Thomas Journal, June 15, 1914:

THOMAS WHARTON IS BURIED AT SPRINGFIELD

Was in His 79th Year and Had Been a Resident There for 30 Years

Springfield, June 15 – The funeral of the late Thomas Wharton, who died at his home here Friday afternoon, was held at the Methodist church at the service hour yesterday. Mr. Wharton, who was in his 79th year, had lived here for over thirty years.  He was an honest, industrious man, respected by everyone. He had not been very strong since recovering from an attack of pneumonia a couple of years ago, but was up town on Monday last attending to some business.  He leaves to mourn his loss, his widow, three daughters and four sons.  Two sons and two daughters are in the west. The other daughter, Mrs. Brown, of Brown City, Mich., and Arthur, of St. Catharines, and George, of Detroit, were with their father during his last hours. 

Private Edwin Garfield Wilson

7201

Edwin Wilson was born on August 25, 1896 at Eden in Bayham township, the son of John Wilson (1851-1907) & Melissa Roberts (1848-1910).  The family is found on the 1901 census in Bayham. John was born in the Niagara District, and died on February 10, 1907 at the age of 55.  His wife Melissa was the daughter of James Roberts & Christina Boughner, and died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. John W. (Ora) Crane, in Ingersoll in 1910.  Melissa may have been married previously to John Case, as daughter Ora’s surname on the 1901 census in “Case”, and her marriage record in 1901 to John Crane gives her parents names as John Case & Melissa Roberts.

Edwin was employed as an electrician when he enlisted for service on September 18, 1914 at Valcartier.  He names his next of kin as his sister, Mrs. Ora Crane, of Concession Street, Ingersoll.  He had served four months in the First Hussars in London.

Edwin died on April 22, 1915 at the age of 18 while serving with the 1st Battalion of Canadian Infantry, Western Ontario Regiment.  His name appears on the Menin Gate (Ypres) Memorial.