Little Walsingham and Egmere - Panel 2
Roll of Honour site
www.roll-of-honour.com/Norfolk/LittleWalsingham.html
And also this site dedicated to the Walsingham area, which I found after I’d done much of the initial legwork,, but is just the kind of local site I would rather you went and looked at rather than read through my ramblings
www.walsingham-memories.co.uk/war/19141918/littlewalsingh...
William Marwick……………………
Name: MARWICK, WILLIAM
Rank: Private
Regiment: South Staffordshire Regiment, 2nd Bn.
Age: 39
Date of Death: 05/09/1918
Service No: 43403
Additional information: Son of William and Ann Marwick, of "Cramond," Bolam, Heighington, Co. Durham; husband of Margaret A. C. Marwick, of Binham, Wighton, Norfolk.
Grave Reference: IV. A. 2. Cemetery: BAC-DU-SUD BRITISH CEMETERY, BAILLEULVAL
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=18918
The cemetery was made in March 1918 by the 7th, 20th and 43rd Casualty Clearing Stations, but when the German advance began at the end of that month, their place was taken by field ambulances of the units fighting on the Arras front. In August and September, when the Germans had been pushed back, the 45th and 46th Casualty Clearing Stations were posted to the neighbourhood.
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/cemetery_details.aspx?cemetery=2000&a...
There is a picture of Private Marwick on Picture Norfolk
norlink.norfolk.gov.uk/02_Catalogue/02_013_PictureTitleIn...
There are no additional notes but he is listed as serving with the 8th Northumberland Fusiliers.
Born in Edinburgh 13th October 1878
Educated at Edinburgh & Gateshead on Tyne
Enlisted on 19th April 1915
43403, 2nd Bttn, South Staffs Regiment/8th Northumberland Fusiliers
Died of wounds received at Arras on Thursday 5th September 1918 age 39
www.walsingham-memories.co.uk/war/19141918/littlewalsingh...
Updated June 2018 – see comment below
Robert Mendham………………………………..
Name: MENDHAM, R
Rank: Private
Regiment: Norfolk Regiment,12th (Norfolk Yeomanry) Bn.
Date of Death: 10/03/1918
Service No: 320436
Grave Reference: J. 96.
Cemetery: JERUSALEM WAR CEMETERY, Israel
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=647616
There is a picture of Private Robert John Mendham on Picture Norfolk
norlink.norfolk.gov.uk/02_Catalogue/02_013_PictureTitleIn...
Accompanying notes read
Private Mendham was born at Kennett, Newmarket, in 1894. He was educated at Little Walsingham National School. He enlisted in 1915 and was killed in action at Palestine on 10th March 1918
Son of James and Louisa Mendham
walsingham-memories.co.uk/war/19141918/littlewalsingham/m...
Updated June 2018 – see comment below
Frederick Seaman…………………..
Name: SEAMAN, F J
Rank: Private
Regiment: Hampshire Regiment
Date of Death: 17/11/1919
Service No: 43848
Grave Reference: Opposite South porch. Cemetery: LITTLE WALSINGHAM (ST. MARY) CHURCHYARD
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=2803552
Private Frederick J Seaman
Born in Little Walsingham
43848, Hampshire Regiment
Died Monday 17th November 1919 age 21
Son of Mr and Mrs Seaman (Ethel Tuck) of Walsingham
Buried with full military honours at St Mary's Churchyard
www.walsingham-memories.co.uk/war/19141918/littlewalsingh...
The October to December 1919 quarter for England and Wales has only one death for a Frederick J. Seaman. That death was recorded in the Walsingham District and the unfortunate individual was aged 28.
John Seaman…………………………….
There is a picture of Private John Stone Seaman on Picture Norfolk.
norlink.norfolk.gov.uk/02_Catalogue/02_013_PictureTitleIn...
Accompanying notes read
Private Seaman was born at Little Walsingham in 1866, and was educated at Little Walsingham National School. He enlisted in 1914, and killed in action in France on 2nd December 1917
www.walsingham-memories.co.uk/war/19141918/littlewalsingh...
Name: SEAMAN, JOHN STONE
Rank: Private
Unit: Norfolk Regiment, 7th Bn.
Date of Death: 02/12/1917
Service No: 12335
Memorial: CAMBRAI MEMORIAL, LOUVERVAL
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=1756568
The 7th battalion had suffered heavily in an attack on the 30th November during the battle of CambraI, including the loss of their commanding officer, Lt-Col Henry Gielgud MC amongst 17 officers and over 200 men killed, wounded or missing. On the 1st December the Germans counter-attacked, and the Battalion was forced back to the reserve line. The battalion was finally relieved that evening and withdrew to Fusiliers Trench, where over the next few days various stragglers from the action on the 30th came back.
(Source - Battalion War Diary)
Samuel Sharpe……………………..
Name: SHARPE, SAMUEL
Rank: Sapper
Unit: Royal Engineers, Artisan Works Company
Age: 39
Date of Death: 05/05/1919
N.B.: Recent research has shown that Sapper Sharpe is buried here. The Commission is in the process of producing a headstone to mark his grave.
Cemetery: LITTLE WALSINGHAM (ST. MARY) CHURCHYARD
CWGC: www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=75227859
There is a picture of Sapper Samuel Sharp, of 242 Artisan company, on Picture Norfolk.
norlink.norfolk.gov.uk/02_Catalogue/02_013_PictureTitleIn...
Accompanying notes read
Sapper Sharp was born in 1880. He enlisted on 15th May 1916, and died on 5th May 1917. He is buried at New [Little] Walsingham churchyard
www.walsingham-memories.co.uk/war/19141918/littlewalsingh...
Thomas Smith…………………….
RoH has Rifleman 519633, 1st Battalion, Rifle Brigade (Prince Consort's Own) who died age 32 on Monday 22nd April 1918. Born Hackney, enlisted Stratford. Living Walsingham. Husband of Ethel May Smith, of High St Walsingham, Norfolk. Commemorated on Loos Memorial Pas de Calais, France. Panel 129. Loos-en-Gohelle is 5 kms north-west of Lens
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=1769389
On 11 April 1918 the 1st Battalion, Rifle Brigade was rushed up in buses to a position on the La Bassée Canal in order to try and stem the German breakthrough on the Lys. Over the next eleven days it was involved in severe fighting in the area around Hinges and Robecq. On 22 April, 1st Bn, Rifle Brigade, together with the 1st Hampshires, took part in an attack which helped to secure the Canal. It was during this fighting that Lance Sergeant Joseph Woodall won his Victoria Cross on the far side of the canal at La Pannerie, near Hinges.
His citation read:
La Pannerie, France, 22 April 1918, Lance Sergeant Joseph Edward Woodall, 1st Bn, The Rifle Brigade.
For most conspicuous bravery and fine leadership during an attack. ( La Pannerie, France ) Sjt. Woodall was in command of a platoon which, during an advance, was held up by a machine gun. On his own initiative he rushed forward and, single-handed, captured the gun and eight men. After the objective had been gained, heavy fire was encountered from a farmhouse some 200 yards in front. Sjt. Woodall collected ten men and, with great dash and gallantry, rushed the farm and took thirty prisoners. Shortly afterwards, when the officer in command was killed, he took entire command, reorganised the two platoons, and disposed them most skilfully.
Throughout the day, in spite of intense shelling and machine-gun fire, this gallant N.C.O. was constantly on the move, encouraging the men and finding out and sending back invaluable information. The example set by Sjt. Woodall was simply magnificent, and had a marked effect on the troops. The success of the operation on this portion of the front is attributed almost entirely to his coolness, courage and utter disregard for his own personal safety.
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joseph_Edward_Woodall
Walter Spooner………………..
Name: SPOONER, WALTER
Rank: Private
Unit: Queen's Own (Royal West Kent Regiment), 10th Bn.
Age: 34
Date of Death: 21/09/1917
Service No: G/23571
Additional information: Son of Alfred and Marie Spooner, of Knights St., Walsingham, Norfolk; husband of Alice Elizabeth Spooner, of The Square, East Rudham, King's Lynn.
Memorial: TYNE COT MEMORIAL
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=3065895
Born Walsingham 1883 (Butcher 1901) enlisted Norwich
G/23571, 10th Battalion, Queen's Own (Royal West Kent Regiment)
(previously 41764 Royal Fusiliers)
Died on Friday 21st September 1917 age 34
www.walsingham-memories.co.uk/war/19141918/littlewalsingh...
The 18 year old Walter, born Walsingham and working as a Blacksmith, was recorded on the 1901 census at Knight Street, Little Walsingham. This was the household of his parents, Alfred, (aged 40 and a Blacksmith from Thornage), and Maria, (aged 46 and from Hindringham). Their other children are Ernest, (22, Groom), Frank, (15, Domestic Gardener), Mary, (14) and Florence, (11) - all born Little Walsingham.
Friday 21st September 1917 - Day 47
Rainfall Nil
Dumbarton Wood
41st Div
123 Bde
123 Bde attacked with 10th Bn, Royal West Kents and 20th Bn, Durham Light Infantry. 23rd Bn, Middlesex Regt was in support. The troops made little progress due to boggy ground along the Bassevillebeek. Eventually they reached the copse of trees by the stream and consolidated. A number of counterattacks were fought off in the afternoon, the last at 7 pm.
forum.irishmilitaryonline.com/showthread.php?s=b4f8b359e7...
Arthur Woodcock………………….
Name: WOODCOCK, ARTHUR
Rank: Private
Unit: Essex Regiment, 11th Bn.
Date of Death: 15/10/1916
Service No: 28209
Memorial: THIEPVAL MEMORIAL
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=1555526
Picture Norfolk has a picture of Private Arthur Woodcock, of the 11th Essex.
norlink.norfolk.gov.uk/02_Catalogue/02_013_PictureTitleIn...
Accompanying notes read: - Private Woodcock was born in Walsingham on 4th October 1894, and educated at Little Walsingham. He enlisted on 4th June 1916, and was killed in action in France on 15th October 1916
The 6 year old Arthur, born Little Walsingham, is recorded on the 1901 census at Wells Road, Little Walsingham. This is the household of his parents, Henry, (aged 54 and a Shoe and Bootmaker from Little Walsingham), and Rebecca, (aged 50 and from Houghton in the Dale). They have 5 other children living with them.
A number of attacks by the 6th Division, of which the 11th Essex were part, had been launched over the preceding 10 days to snuff out a German salient, all with, at best, partial success.
From “A Short History of the 6th Division” by Thomas Owne Marden,
The attack was renewed at 5.35am on the 15th October, the 18th Infantry Brigade on the left (2nd D.L.I and 11th Essex) attempting to seize those portions of Cloudy and Mild trenches still held by the enemy, while the Sherwood Foresters on our right attacked some gun pits which lay about 200 yards in front of their line. This latter attack succeeded, but with the great loss of Colonel Hobbs, O.C The Foresters, who died of his wounds. The left attack made a little ground.
www.gutenberg.org/files/20115/20115-h/20115-h.htm
Sunday 15th October 1916. Day 107 Le Sars
In 6th Div, 2nd Sherwood Foresters (71 Bde) captured the gun pits in front of Cloudy Trench in a dawn attack.
forum.irishmilitaryonline.com/showthread.php?t=9058&p...
Arthur W Woodcock……………………….
Name: WOODCOCK, ARTHUR
Rank: Private
Unit: Australian Infantry, A.I.F., 13th Bn.
Date of Death: 13/01/1917
Service No: 3502
Additional information: Son of Samuel and Fanny Gertrude Woodcock, of Walsingham, Norfolk, England.
Grave Reference: E. 451.
Cemetery: KANTARA WAR MEMORIAL CEMETERY
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=475681
Picture Norfolk has a picture of Arthur William Woodcock, Camel Corps.
norlink.norfolk.gov.uk/02_Catalogue/02_013_PictureTitleIn...
Accompanying notes read
Private Woodcock was born in Egmore on 2nd April 1893. He was educated at Little Walsingham. In September 1915 he enlisted, and died from wounds in Egypt on 12th January 1917
www.walsingham-memories.co.uk/war/19141918/littlewalsingh...
The 7 year old Arthur, born Egmere, is recorded on the 1901 census at Cokers Hill, Little Walsingham. This is the household of his parents, Samuel, (aged 30 and a Horseman of Farm from Oulton, Suffolk), and Gertrude, (aged 28 and from Egmere). Their other children are Marjorie, (6, born Egmere) and Flora, (1, born Little Walsingham).
He is still on the 1911 census, so must have emigrated after that date.
Thanks to the wonderful policy of the Australians, Arthur’s military records are available to view on line for free.
naa12.naa.gov.au/scripts/Imagine.asp?B=8860055
Arthur joined up on the 7th August 1915 as part of a draft of re-enforcements for the 13th Battalion.
He gives his birthplace as Walsingham, and his occupation as “Traveller”. His next of kin is listed as his father, Samuel. He had served 4 ½ years in the 6th Battalion (Cyclists), Norfolk Regiment, before “being discharged at his own request”. At his medical he is described as 6 feet 3 ¼ inches, with a Ruddy complexion, blue eyes, dark brown hair and as a distinguishing mark he has a tattoo of “crossed hands over a heart” on his right arm.
He goes back on the 7th September, before finally attesting on the 5th October 1915 as part of the 11th Reinforcements, 13th Battalion.
On the 11th April 1916 he is transferred to the 4th Divisional Details, and assigned to the Anzac Provost Corps at Tel el Kebir in Egypt as a Private, however he is returned to the Battalion on the 28th
On the 5th May 1916 on one record he is taken on the strength of the Imperial Camel Corps, while on another this happens on the 5th August 1916 when he is transferred to the Camel Corps as a Lance Corporal.
On the 9th January 1917 he is transferred to hospital as wounded. On his records the words “in action” have been written, and then struck through. He is initially admitted with gun shot wounds to the left buttock.
The notification of his death states that he was attached to the No 1 Company Imperial Camel Corps.. His place of death is given as the 2nd Lowland Field Ambulance, El Arish, Egypt, with a cause of death of peritonitis.. He was initially buried in the El Arish Military cemetery.
In his will dated 23rd December 1916, Lance Corporal A Woodcock, Machine Gun Section, No 1 Company Imperial Camel Corps, leaves all his property and effects to Mr and Mrs S Woodcock of Egmere Road, Walsingham.
His unit
The Imperial Camel Corps (ICC) was formed in January 1916 in order to deal with the revolt of pro-Turkish Senussi tribesmen in Egypt’s Western Desert. The first four companies were recruited from Australian infantry battalions recuperating after Gallipoli. Four battalions were eventually formed. The 1st and 3rd were entirely Australian, the 2nd was British, and the 4th was a mix of Australians and New Zealanders. The ICC also had its own machine gun unit, and a battery of light artillery recruited in Hong Kong and Singapore.
The operations of the ICC in the Western Desert in 1916 were characterised by long patrols and brief skirmishes with the Senussi. British commanders in Egypt appreciated the fighting qualities of the ICC and in late 1916 the ICC was transferred to the Sinai desert to take part in operations against the Turkish army. Here the battalions of the ICC fought alongside Australian light horse units at Romani, Magdhaba and Rafa.
The ICC remained an integral part of the British and dominion force that advanced north through Palestine in 1917 and 1918
The men of the ICC had a rough reputation, largely because when the Corps was originally formed Australian battalion commanders had seized upon it as an opportunity to offload some of their more difficult characters.
www.awm.gov.au/units/unit_13624.asp
Rafa
Rafa, a former police post on the Egypt-Palestine border, was the scene of action between the Desert Column and Turkish forces on 9 January 1917. Rafa was one of two Turkish outposts guarding the Palestine frontier and when the other, Magdhaba, fell on 23 December 1916 it became the focus of British and dominion operations. The main Turkish defences were located on a bare hill about one and a half kilometres south of the town, and consisted of a strong network of trenches sited around a central redoubt. The attacking force consisting of the ANZAC Mounted Division, the Imperial Camel Corps, and the 5th Yeomanry surrounded Rafa before dawn but the subsequent attack made slow progress. By mid-afternoon the commander of the Desert Column, Lieutenant General Sir Phillip Chetwode, considered calling the operation off as reserves, ammunition and water were getting short; a definite decision to break-off was precipitated by the approach of two strong groups of Turkish reinforcements. The orders to the assaulting brigades were, however, ignored at unit level and both the cameleers and troopers of the New Zealand Mounted Rifles Brigade succeeded in overrunning the redoubts to their front. The Turkish defence then rapidly collapsed.
www.awm.gov.au/units/place_1267.asp
In the light of the details of the action at Rafa, the same date that Arthur Woodcock receives a gun shot wound, it definitely seems odd that he is not treated as wounded in action.
George Yarham………………………..
Name: YARHAM Initials: G H
Rank: Rifleman
Regiment: King's Royal Rifle Corps, 18th Bn.
Date of Death: 03/10/1918
Service No: 47744
Grave Reference: XV. B. 11.
Cemetery: VOORMEZEELE ENCLOSURE No.3
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=457188
RoH confirms he was born Walsingham
There is 6 George Yarhams recorded in the Walsingham District in the 1901 census. The most likely match is a George H, aged 1, born Little Walsingham and recorded on the census at Market Place, Little Walsingham. This is the household of his parents, Ernest E, (aged 24 and a Ordinary Farm Labourer from Great Walsingham), and Eliza, (aged 18 and from Little Walsingham)
The Great War Roll of Honour confirms the man on the CWGC database is a George H.
Here's what the 1918 War Record of the 18th KRRC says -
"On October 1st we marched as part of 122nd Brigade via Ten Brielen and America ridge with the intention of occupying Menin. Slight casualties were sustained from shellfire east of America ridge, 2Lt.T.H.Gwyther being wounded. The advance guard encountered strong resistance, and about midday the advance was checked. Orders for an immediate attack were received at 7.30pm, the Battalion being then under heavy artillery and MG fire. An attempt was made to arrange details with the Officer Commanding 13th Hants Regiment, Captain N.P.Spooner being badly wounded whilst arranging the boundaries of the attack. Eventually, on the situation being represented to the GOC Brigade personally by the Commanding Officer, the attack was deferred until the following morning.
At 7am.(2nd October 1918) the Battalion carried out a successful attack in conjunction with the 15th Hants. Casualties - 2nd Lieuts M.A.Lambert and C.E.Hodgson killed; 2nd Lt Trowsdale d.o.w.; Lt. W.J.Clarkson wounded. Approx casualties OR 150.
At 5.50pm. the enemy counter-attacked heavily and pressed back the 2nd Btn Hampshire Regiment on our right with the result that our posts had to be withdrwn in conjunction with them. Two enemy field guns which had been captured had to be abandoned.
The battalion was relieved during the night of 2nd/3rd."
1914-1918.invisionzone.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=156238
Robert Yaxley……………………
Name: YAXLEY, ROBERT THOMAS
Rank: Private
Regiment: Border Regiment, 7th Bn.
Age: 36
Date of Death: 06/08/1920
Service No: 23152
Additional information: Husband of Mrs Yaxley, of Little Walsingham, Norfolk. N.B.: Recent research has shown that Private Yaxley is buried here. The Commission is in the process of producing a headstone to mark his grave.
Cemetery: LITTLE WALSINGHAM (ST. MARY) CHURCHYARD
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=75227858
Born in Knight's Street, Little Walsingham in 1884
Enlisted in Norfolk Regiment, transferred to the
23152 Border Regiment
Died 6th August 1920 from the effects of gas poisoning suffered during the war
(Site also has picture of Robert)
www.walsingham-memories.co.uk/war/19141918/littlewalsingh...
The 17 year old Robert T. born Little Walsingham and employed as a Bricklayers Server, is recorded on the 1901 census at Knight Street, Little Walsingham. This is the household of his parents, Robert, (aged 40 and an Ordinary Agricultural Labourer from Little Walsingham), and Elizabeth, (aged 38 and from Little Walsingham), They have 5 other children living with them.
However, RoH site believes this refers to Robert Christmas Yaxley
Driver 82867, 45th Battery. 42nd Brigade, Royal Field Artillery who died aged 36 on Tuesday 1 May 1917. Born Little Walsingham, worked as bricklayer. Son of Ann Yaxley, of Trunch, North Walsham, Norfolk. Buried in Duisans British Cemetery, Etrun, Pas de Calais, France. Grave II. O. 1. Duisans and Etrun are villages about 9 kilometres west of Arras
See also
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=41807
I believe RoH site may be in error on this. There is no match for a Robert Yaxley of this age being born in Little Walsingham. Checking the Military Geneology site, the birthplace of Robert Christmas Yaxley is Knapton. On the 1901 census, there is a 20 year old Robert, born Knapton. He was a boarder at Long Yard, Briston, working as a Railway Cleaner. Going back to the 1891 census, he was living at Lower Street, Knapton, the household of his father, Edmund (or poss. Edward), and mother, Ann plus 6 brothers and sisters.
EGMERE********************
George Williamson………………………..
No obvious match on the CWGC database. RoH has no suggestions, No match on Picture Norfolk
Military Geneology has
George Arthur born Waterden, Norfolk - possibly
Name: WILLIAMSON, GEORGE ARTHUR
Rank: Private
Regiment: Norfolk Regiment, 1st Bn.
Date of Death: 09/05/1917
Service No: 43392
Memorial: ARRAS MEMORIAL
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=774478
Private George Arthur Williamson
Born Waterden, enlisted North Walsham
43392, 1st Battalion, Norfolk Regiment
Killed in Action on 9th May 1917
www.walsingham-memories.co.uk/war/19141918/egmere/William...
The 1901 census throws up another possibility, as it lists a 5 year old George, born Warham All Saints, ( a village a couple of miles north of Little Walsingham), George is recorded at Stiffkey Road, Warham All Saints. This is the household of his parents, William, (aged 45 and an Ordinary Agricultural Labourer from Warham All Saints), and Anna, (aged 47 and from East Lexham). Their other children are:-
Agnes…………..aged 9.……….born Warham All Saints
Charles…………aged 10.……born Warham All Saints
Mercy M……….aged 12.…….born Warham All Saints
By the time of the 1911 census both the George born Warham All Saints, and the George born Waterden are recorded in the Walsingham District.
Assuming it is the Waterden man, then on this day I can find no trace of the 1st Norfolks being engaged at this time, having suffered heavy casualties in the actions in April as part of the Battle of Arras.
William Wright……………………….
No obvious match on the CWGC database. RoH has no suggestions, No match on Picture Norfolk
There is however a James William Wright:
Pte, 21798, 5th Bedfords, Died, 30 Dec 1917
Born-Great Snoring. Enlisted-Cromer. Residence-Walsingham
1914-1918.invisionzone.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=24720
Private (James) William Wright
Born Gt Snoring, enlisted Cromer. Living in Walsingham
21798, 5th Battalion, Bedfordshire Regiment
Presumed drowned on 30th December 1917 on HT "Aragon" entering Alexandria Harbour
www.walsingham-memories.co.uk/war/19141918/egmere/wright....
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=1439271
The most obvious match on the 1901 census is a James W Wright, aged 2 and born Great Snoring. James was recorded at The Hill, Great Walsingham. This is the household of his parents, James, (aged 26 and an Ordinary Agricultural Labourer from Wighton) and Rose, (aged 24 and from Great Snoring). The Wrights also have a son Sidney W. aged 1 and born Great Snoring.
On the 30th December 1917, the Troopship S.S. Aragon arrived at Alexandria Harbour, having sailed from Marseilles on the 17th December. She was laden with around 2,700 troops bound for the conflicts raging in Palestine.
As she arrived in a convoy bound for the port, the rest of the ships sailed onwards to Alexandria and she lay up ten miles off shore, awaiting her escort. The 9588 tons of ocean liner drifted gently as she waited within sight of land but was torpedoed by the German Submarine and minelayer the UC-34.
The destroyer HMS Attack dashed to her rescue as she sunk quickly, as well as every available ship within reach. Many of the men rescued and taken onto the HMS Attack had just stripped their oil drenched clothes from their bodies and laid on the deck when she too was torpedoed by the same submarine, almost blowing her in two.
The following day - New Years Eve - just as the rescue was called off, fleet auxiliary craft HMS Osmanieh also hit a mine in the area, taking another 197 soldiers and nurses down with her.
610 of the 2,700 passengers on board the HMS Aragon were lost at sea, including 25 of the new draft bound for the 5th Battalion of the Bedfordshire regiment.
www.bedfordregiment.org.uk/5thbn/ssaragon.html
(This site is very well researched, and this particular article includes a photo of the relevant panel on the Chatby memorial)
William Hall………………………..
No obvious match on the CWGC database and no match on Picture Norfolk
RoH has this as Private G/8069, 1st Battalion, The Queen's (Royal West Surrey Regt.) who died on Monday 23rd April 1917. Born Little Ryburgh, enlisted Kings Lynn. Living Walsingham. Commemorated on Arras Memorial, Pas de Calais, France. Bay 2. Located in Faubourg-d'Amiens Cemetery, Boulevard du General de Gaulle, Arras.
Same information here:-
www.walsingham-memories.co.uk/war/19141918/egmere/WJHall....
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=637739
There is no obvious match for a William Hall born Little Ryburgh on the Genes Reunited transcription of the 1901 census for England and Wales. There is a William, age 12 who is living at The Cottage, Langor Bridge, Little Ryburgh, but he was born at Kettlestone. The 1911 census has this individual down as born “Langor Bridge, Norfolk”.
Assuming the 12 year-old is the right individual, then the 1901 census has him in the household of his parents, Noah, (aged 50 and a Platelayer on the Railway from Whissonsett), and Ellen, (aged 44 and from Fakenham). They have 8 other children living with them.
Checking the baptismal records, the baptism of a William John took place at Kettlestone All Saints on the 17th March 1889. Although no date of birth is given, in the additional information it is noted that he was 5 weeks old. His parents are listed as Noah and Ellen. Fathers occupation is given as Railway Labourer and the family abode is listed as Kettlestone.
On the day..................
23rd April 1917. Battalion War Diary Appendix.
Report on Operations - 23rd April 1917.
The battalion had orders to attack and hold the 1st and 2nd LINE of the HINDENBURG LINE for about 400 yards SOUTH of the SENSEE RIVER in conjunction with an attack by the 98th Brigade from the NORTH.
Two companys 16 K.R.R Corps and 222 Field Coy R.E were attached to the battalion which was under the command of Major T. WEEDING.
Two tanks were detailed to work with the battalion.
The Battalion passed MAMELINCOURT at 7.30 p.m on 22nd and picked up extra ammunition and bombs near JUDAS FARM and reached “the place of Assembly” - the Quarry at T.18.d.9.7 at 11.30p.m. Tools were distributed - 20 per company and hot cocoa was issued out at 2.00am, 23rd instant
At 3.30 am the Battalion marched by Companies from the Quarry to the “place of Deployment” - 300 yards N.E of Bridge T.18.b.5.3 - and deployed on a front of 300 yards on tapes previously laid out 150 yards on each side of the CHOISILLES - FONTAINE ROAD.
The first two waves were composed of “D” Coy under Captain R.BRODHURST-HILL on the right of the road, and “A” Coy under 2nd Lieut. H J Carpenter on left of, with mopping up platoons of “C” and “B” Coy forming a third line to first wave.
The 3rd and 4th wave, at a distance of 50 yards were composed of “C” Coy under Captain F S BALL on right and “B” Coy under 2nd Lieut J HOLLIDAY on left with ½ section of R.E on each flank of 2nd Line.
The 5th and 6th waves were composed of two companies 16th K.R.R Corps at distance of 100 yards carrying extra ammunition and bombs.
DESCRIPTION OF COUNTRY The advance from the “Position of deployment” was over 1000 yards of open country along the valley of the SENSEE RIVER: which is only a trickle running along a watercourse giving a certain amount of cover but commanded generally from the high ground on either side. The FRONT German trench was protected by at least two rows of barbed wire radiating from where Trench crosses road, with more thick wire between 1st and 2nd lines. The german Front Line was much knocked about and for the most part not more than 4 feet deep. It was enfiladed from the NORTH.
At 4.15am the Battalion advanced and moved in good order to Sunken Road and lay down to await ZERO - fixed for 4.45 am -without being detected by the enemy. The attack started punctually at 4.45am and worked up to within 50 yards of the “Barrage“, entering the front line with few casualties. This contained only a few Germans who were quickly disposed of.
The leading companies pushed forward towards the German 2nd line but was held up by very strong wire which was uncut, and the barrage, on lifting, was taken too far back and rested beyond instead of on the 2nd Line and enemy were able to man their parapet. Our men took cover in shell holes between the two lines. A small party of “A“ Coy only reached second line. The two TANKS which by now should have arrived never turned up, having broken down before ZERO.
Two telephone lines were laid along the SENSEE river and communication to Battalion Headquarters was kept up until 5.50am when wires were cut and all attempts afterwards to repair them failed.
The line to Brigade Headquarters went at 5.4am and communication from then onwards had to be kept up by runner.
In the German 1st line to the right of the road, two “Strongpoints” were captured and Bombing parties pushed 100 yards beyond Communication Trench at Contour 80 until held up by another strongpoint and a double block was made and Post established in Communications Trench. These blocks were maintained until 11.00 am, when Germans made a determined attack with Rifle Grenades and Bombs but were driven back by parties under C.S.Major Elderkin.
On the Left a block was first made at the river but on the “Box Barrage” lifting the Enemy attacked and were repulsed with Rifle Grenades and the party under Corporal Spooner followed them up for 150 yards, captured a concrete Block House and a Machine Gun which on Enemy attacking again was blown up with a bomb. .A Block was then made 50 yards from the Blockhouse and held till the end. The First Line soon became blocked with wounded and it was difficult to pass bombs to threatened points - and bombing was incessant at all five points.
At 5.8am 2nd Lieut HOLLIDAY telephoned that 1st Line taken but 2nd Strongly held by Germans and no Tanks had arrived.
At 5.25am 5 prisoners of 99 Regt brought back.
At 7.10 am 2nd Lieutenant Carpenter arrived at Battalion Headquarters, wounded and reported the battalion was running out of bombs. This was confirmed by a message from Captain Godfrey timed 6.45 a.m. reporting shortage of bombs and L.G ammunition and that situation was critical.
Parties from the two reserve companies 16th K.R.R.C in the Quarry took up nearly 1500 bombs during the next few hours.
At 10.10 am Captain GODFREY reported that advance of 98th Brigade had relieved the pressure - that casualties were heavy but men cheery and confident - more L.G ammunition and bombs wanted.
At 12.20 pm Captain GODFREY reported enemy pressing with repeated bombing attacks and supply of bombs getting low.
At 1.20 pm the last carrying party of men of 2nd Battn Worcester Regt with 800 bombs went up but before they reached the line the Enemy commenced strong bombing attacks from 5 different points.
At 1.45 the Germans massed on the right and rushed the blocks under a “barrage” of Aerial Torpedoes and Rifles Grenades, the bombs at this point having given out.
The pressure of the enemy on the right flank forced a retirement and the men in the Centre Communication Trench were cut off. Many casualties occurred during this retirement. The men were rallied at Battalion Headquarters. From 3pm the Quarry and Valley were heavily shelled and many casualties caused.
At 8pm orders received to move back to Railway Cutting near JUDAS FARM. During the action the Battalion was ably assisted by the 16th K.R.R.C who performed valuable work in bringing up bombs and ammunition across the open under heavy fire and suffered severe casualties.
The section RE also had many casualties, both officers being wounded and one party blown up by explosion of their explosives.
Officers Killed 3
Officers Wounded 2
Officers Missing 8
Other Ranks. Killed. 26. Wounded.101. Missing. 308.
Alfred Hambling……………………
Name: HAMBLING, ALFRED GEORGE
Rank: Private
Regiment: Norfolk Regiment, 1st Bn.
Age: 25
Date of Death: 29/05/1918
Service No: 18680
Additional information: Son of Mr. H. Hambling of Egmere, Walsingham, Norfolk. Grave Reference: Plot 4. Row A. Grave 8. Cemetery: TANNAY BRITISH CEMETERY, THIENNES
CWGC www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=69060
No match on Picture Norfolk
also on Gt Snoring War Memorial
www.walsingham-memories.co.uk/war/19141918/egmere/Hamblin...
The 11 year old Alfred, born Egmere, is recorded on the 1901 census at 19 Egmere Cottages, Egmere. (Note age discrepancy with CWGC). This is the household of his parents, Henry, (aged 46 and an Ordinary Agricultural Labourer from Wighton), and Mary Ann, (aged 47 and from Whitwick, Leicestershire). Their other children are William, (21) and John, (16), both born Egmere and both working as a Teamster on Farm
The 1911 census high level search, (all I have access to), is consistent in that it has him as born circa 1890, (i.e 11 in 1901)
On this day the 1st Norfolks were in the front line. I don’t have much more information other than a note in the 1st Battalion Bedfordshire Regiment diary that they relieved the 1st Norfolks on the night of the 29th/30th May 1918.
