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COVERING WREXHAM, EAST AND (DETACHED) FIRSTPrinted at Caxton Buildings, Regent Street, SEND Wrexham THE OFF GREAT WAR – COMMEMORATIVE FROM EDITION WREXHAMTWO PENCE

BRITAIN’S THE ENEMY IN BUSY SCENES DECLARATION OUR MIDST The terms of the declaration by Great ARRESTS IN Britain are as follows: WREXHAM AND AT BARRACKS "OWING TO THE SUMMARY REJECTION BY THE DISTRICT Early on Wednesday, it became station, as the reservists entered the GERMAN GOVERNMENT OF THE REQUEST MADE BY The wholesale arrests of German and known that the first batch of Army building, women and children who Austrian subjects in all parts of the Reservists were to leave Wrexham for were bidding farewell to husbands HIS MAJESTY’S GOVERNMENT FOR ASSURANCES country, on Wednesday, made it clear duty at Portland, where they will be and fathers and young ladies to their that the authorities now intend attached to the 2nd Battalion R.W.F. sweethearts, gave shrieks that were THAT THE NEUTRALITY OF BELGIUM WILL BE interning all male alien enemies of Following the announcement, a state piercing which brought tears to the military age and residing in this of enthusiasm and excitement began eyes of many of the more manly. RESPECTED, HIS MAJESTY’S AMBASSADOR AT country, as prisoners during the to spread amongst the people, until The 359 men were given a civic period of the war. in the evening just before the send off with the mayor making a BERLIN HAS RECEIVED HIS PASSPORTS, AND HIS In common with other places, the police of Denbighshire effectively and departure of the reservists, one could formal address. As the train steamed MAJESTY’S GOVERNMENT HAS DECLARED TO THE quietly made arrests on Wednesday, feel the wave of enthusiasm passing out ringing cheers went up from the and completed their work on YOUR KING AND COUNTRY over the large number of people like large crowd and in these cheers we GERMAN GOVERNMENT THAT A STATE OF WAR Thursday, when sixteen Germans an electric shock. From the Barracks venture to say, those left behind with were detained at the County NEED YOU - MOBILISATION to the railway station the streets aching hearts, said a silent prayer EXISTS BETWEEN BRITAIN AND AS Buildings, Wrexham, pending their NOW is the time for the YOUNG traversed were lined with people, and 'that no harm might befall them'. The removal to a detention camp. They MEN of the County who have not everywhere along the route ringing reservists called out 'for God and FROM 11 P.M. ON AUGUST 4TH." were arrested in the districts of hitherto joined the Territorial Force, to show their Patriotism in the hour , , , cheers were accorded the military Country' as the train steamed away. (WREXHAM ADVERTISER, 8.8.1914) of the country’s urgent need, and rally men, who were headed and played to And so there passed on Wrexham’s and Wrexham and those arrested round the flag. Any man between the the station by the band of the R.W.F. first quota to a fighting strength include drapers’ assistants, men of ages of 17 and 35, not serving in the BUSY SCENES AT RECRUITING dental surgeon. Let him take this The departure was accompanied by which every Briton today is proud of. the merchant service and navy, National Reserve, and anxious to give HEADQUARTERS letter and ask him to put him right mechanics, waiters and a merchant’s in their names, should go to the several pathetic incidents. At the (North Guardian, 7.8.1914) and give him a certificate of fitness person whose name he will see on A very promising response is being without fee or charge." clerk. made for Lord Esher’s appeal for Mr Gibbins, a steel manufacturer Included in the arrests made by the Posters which are about to be issued 30,000 Territorials to fill the gaps Llangollen police were several throughout Denbighshire. made by those who have volunteered of Neath, travelled to Cardiff with GOD SAVE THE KING! for service abroad. Many well-known recruits comprising the whole of his Germans who have for some time footballers have enlisted. Mr Edward unmarried male employees. After been on a visit to the vale of Mobb, the Northampton rugby dining with the men, Mrs Gibbins Llangollen. LEGAL AND PUBLIC player, has obtained permission to presented each with cigarettes and a case. ( Guardian, 25.10.1914) NOTICES raise a corps of 250 men for Lord ------Kitchener’s army with the guarantee Lady Glenconner has taken up the SUPPOSED GERMAN SPY IN WREXHAM RETIRED MILITARY OFFICERS that they shall be in the same role of recruiter by visiting farmers in AND PENSIONERS from the detachment. the neighbourhood of her residence at A story was circulated in Wrexham on Wilsford and inducing carters and ARMY are NOTIFIED THAT THEIR An excellent suggestion is made by Saturday that there was a German Mr J.T. Fripp who writes "I am told agricultural labourers to join Lord SERVICES ARE URGENTLY that a large number of otherwise Kitchener’s Army. spy in the town. We understand that REQUIRED in the present crisis, acceptable young men are rejected on Many firms are urging their the police received a description of to assist in obtaining RECRUITS account of bad teeth. Some of these employees between the ages of 18 and the supposed spy, and later in the day, FOR THE ARMY. Liberal terms are hopeless but could be made fit by 30 to offer themselves as recruits. a man answering to the description are offered for their services - a few judicious extractions and the They promise them employment at was detained for a few minutes. The treatment and filling-in of remaining the conclusion of the war. In the Apply at once to the Recruiting teeth to make them useful. I meantime arrangements are made news spread like wild fire and no Officer, Barracks, Wrexham therefore appeal to every man of for the adequate support of little commotion was caused. (Wrexham Advertiser, 08.08.1914) serviceable age to go at once to a dependants. (Wrexham Advertiser, 5.9.1914) (Wrexham Advertiser, 15.8.1914)

PLEASE DO NOT REMOVE THIS NEWSPAPER FROM THE MUSEUM WREXHAM TELEGRAPH THE GREAT WAR – COMMEMORATIVE EDITION THE WAR IN THE DISTRICTS FORMATION OF "PALS" BRYMBO BATTALION After being mobilised during the Scenes of remarkable enthusiasm GALLANT RESPONSE week, the local Territorials returned and patriotism were witnessed in home on Saturday afternoon, and Brymbo. The local Territorials The WAR IN WREXHAM assembling together at the Parish marched from their Headquarters, Hall at night, marched to Wrexham, the Drill Hall, Black Lane, through being headed by a portion of the the village and entrained for More Men for Coedpoeth Silver Band. Wrexham. In many instances women THRILLING SCENES were unable to suppress their Kitchener’s Army: RUABON feelings at the departure of their Great enthusiasm prevailed at husbands and sons. On the other IN WREXHAM Wrexham’s Ruabon on Saturday night when the hand, their patriotism was made local company of Territorials left to evident when the Brymbo Institute join the Battalion at Wrexham. The Band played the National Anthem. Splendid Record: streets were thickly lined people and For some time past a number of RESERVISTS RETURN TO THE COLOURS the men, who looked very fit, were Germans have been employed doing DEPARTURE OF DETACHMENTS Two Battalions given a very hearty 'send off'. In the special work at the Brymbo Steel medical examination, only one Works and they are still engaged Completed. member of the company was rejected, there. (Wrexham Advertiser, 15.08.1914) Widespread Support & Enthusiasm and two were certified as being WREXHAM MAYOR’S APPEAL temporarily unfit. The Mayor of Wrexham on Thursday afternoon issued the following appeal: THE "PALS" RUABON VOLUNTARY AID DETACHMENT BATTALION Mrs Pilkington, the Commandant of WAR CRISIS the Ruabon V.A.D., this week called "FOR THE HONOUR OF WALES" the members together. It was decided Welsh horse-trained men who have served in the mounted branches of His Majesty’s Forces and are to forthwith arrange sewing classes, not liable to serve in any existing organisation, are offered a chance of Active Service. Enrol Now. ENTHUSIASTIC where garments, etc., will be made Hesitators not wanted, but men for the honour of Wales. Persons can enrol at the Town Clerk’s Office, for the use of the soldiers. A group of , First World War (WREMA 87.49.25) Wrexham, on any weekday between the hours of 9 a.m. and 8 p.m. MEETING IN S.G. Jarman, Mayor of Wrexham, Guildhall, Wrexham 6th August, 1914 WREXHAM (Wrexham Advertiser, 8.8.1914) The Church House was crowded to its utmost capacity last Friday evening on the occasion of a meeting to further the movement to form a "Pals" Battalion for North Wales. It was obvious from the tone of the meeting that Wrexham will provide its quota in an exceptionally short time. It was announced during the meeting that 75 had already joined, and a large number of names were taken at the close. (Wrexham Advertiser, 12.9.1914)

Parliamentary Recruiting Committee, Poster No.21 Parliamentary Recruiting Committee, Poster No.23 Parliamentary Recruiting Committee, Poster No.24 Volunteers outside County Buildings, Regent Street, (WREMA 84.50.10) (WREMA 84.50.1) (WREMA 84.50.5) Wrexham, 1914 © Denbighshire Archives, DD/W/869 CONCEALING you like this." Defendant further THE BELGIAN RFUGEES stated that Bright came to the house IN WREXHAM A DESERTER on Sept. 29th and had not come out of FULL PENALTY the house at all since. The 20 who were P.C. Lloyd said that he concealed given such a cordial reception on IMPOSED himself at the back of the defendant’s their arrival in Wrexham, on Friday, POLICE COURT house near the window. Pte. Bright last week, have settled down PROCEEDINGS AT RUABON opened the window and was being comfortably in their new home in At Ruabon Petty Sessions yesterday helped through by the defendant. Volunteers outside County Buildings, Regent Street, (Friday), Wm. Davidson*, Stryt Issa, When he was getting through the -street. They appear to be Wrexham, 1914 (Wrexham Archives, 595/1) Penycae, was summoned by P.C. window, Bright exclaimed "Oh, I am quite happy and contented, and are Shone for concealing a deserter. done for. There’s another one here." most profuse in their thanks for the Sergt. Fox said that when received The Clerk said that as no solicitors hospitality extended to them. Two were engaged in the case, he might into custody, Bright admitted that he houses in Grove Park have been lent explain that a man named Samuel had deserted from Londonderry, and Bright*, a private in the that he threw away his clothing. by the trustees of the William and A Denbighshire Hussar, First World War (WREMA 87.49.30) Regiment, who was a reservist, had Defendant, on oath, said Bright John Jones Hospital for temporary been called to rejoin the Colours. He came to his house at 11.55 one wet use by the refugees. A considerable night, and asked if he could stay the reported himself, and was drafted to sum of money will be required each headquarters in Londonderry. It night. Witness did not like to turn week for the maintenance of our appeared that after being there for him away. Witness went to work the three days, he deserted and went into next morning, and when he returned guests, but there need be little fear on hiding in this district. It was further Bright was still there. Bright assured this score. Many generous offers of alleged that while he was a deserter him that he was on a temporary help have been received, including discharge, but witness told him he his relatives received relief intended donations of £1 per week from each of for the support of the relatives of would have to go, as with such a large two collieries, and a levy of 1d per those men serving their country. If family he could not afford to keep that was correct, it was about as him, whilst there was also no room in head — to which the men heartily mean an act as anyone could commit. the house. He started crying and agree — at two or three other Private Bright was brought before witness did not like to turn him out. collieries. (Wrexham Advertiser, 31.10.1914) the Court and handed over to a Bright’s wife also promised to keep military escort from Chester, where him in food. He could not get to know he was taken and dealt with by court positively whether Bright was a martial. deserter or not, as he said if he was a P.C. Shone attested to arresting deserter his wife’s relief would have Pte. Bright in the house of the been stopped. BACK FROM THE FRONT the next morning we were in action. defendant at one o’clock in the early The Chairman said the defendant You talk about South Africa as a morning of Oct. 11th. He secured the would be sentenced to imprisonment One of Wrexham’s contributions to fight. This is a fight! South Africa is a assistance of Acting Sergt. Roberts for six months with hard labour. It the fighting line, Private 79 Davies, tea-party compared to it. The and P.C. Lloyd, of Rhos, and the was a severe sentence, in fact, the (R.W.F.), who was wounded by a shell aeroplanes around us were like a nest house was surrounded. Pte. Bright maximum penalty. The Bench were of at the Battle of Mons, has returned to and the defendant were the only two the opinion that it was necessary in his home in Wrexham. He said "I was of bees. The brought people in the house. When he charged view of the circumstances. The wounded by a shell in several places down one of them. It had two at Mons. We proceeded from Rouen passengers, a Maxim gun and 1,000 Bright with being a deserter, he did present time was a time of war and into the open country. As soon as we rounds of ammunition. I am sorry I not say anything, but the defendant by concealing this man he was got to the place appointed we set could not stay to see the job finished. said "You might as well speak out, practically aiding the enemy. They about digging trenches until two We shall win all right; but we shall and tell the truth. It would have been hoped the case would be a warning to o’clock in the morning. We only have to fight for it." better for you to have given yourself others. *Names have been changed to ensure started on the Saturday night and (Wrexham Advertiser, 12.9.1914) up than for them to come and fetch anonymity. (Wrexham Advertiser, 24.10.1914) Belgian refugees arriving at Wrexham railway station (WREMA 90.28.632)

Researchers & Sub-editors: Tre vor Britton, Paula Plant, Sally Cresswell, This publication was produced by Wrexham Gordon Griffiths & Rob Jarvis Heritage Service ( Museum & Archives) to mark the centenary Editor & Picture Editor: of the First World War. Jonathan Gammond Design: JPD S Creative

2 PLEASE DO NOT REMOVE THIS NEWSPAPER FROM THE MUSEUM WREXHAM TELEGRAPH THE GREAT WAR – COMMEMORATIVE EDITION

PUBLISHED BY THE PARLIMENTARY RECRUITING COMMITTEE, . POSTER NO. 108. PRINTED BY SPOTTISWOODE & CO. LTD .. LONDON, E.C.

PLEASE DO NOT REMOVE THIS NEWSPAPER FROM THE MUSEUM 3 WREXHAM TELEGRAPH THE GREAT WAR – COMMEMORATIVE EDITION The Welsh Fusiliers ROSENEATH LEGAL AND Following brilliant fighting against The British Welterweight PUBLIC NOTICES enormous odds, comparatively few of the 1st Battalion R.W.F. are left. MILITARY NO GERMAN Descriptions from soldiers show that OWING to a RUMOUR which is the battalion was practically Championship gaining currency in Wrexham surrounded. Private Jack Ellis says RED since the War commenced that the men were eager for the T.W.DORROFIELD, experience of battle and they HOSPITAL, Sergeant Basham Brings The Belt To Wrexham CONFECTIONER, 8,CHURCH advanced in artillery formation until STREET AND 4, EGERTON they were in rifle range. The Fusiliers WREXHAM STREET, is a German or first dealt with a party of snipers in a Roseneath, Grove Park, which A Notable Victory Austrian, he wishes to state farmhouse. Then, as they advanced, that he was BORN IN the shrapnel shells from the enemy’s belongs to the John Jones Sergeant Johnny Basham of the the slightest doubt that he was down to be counted out. That is how WARWICKSHIRE of Parents of guns soon wrought great havoc, and Foundation, is now quite ready for Royal Welsh Fusiliers, who resides at beaten by a better man. In the words Basham won his honours. He is a SCOTCH and FRENCH Lt Chance was killed in leading the the reception of patients, it having Whitegate Rd., Wrexham, set the seal of an expert writer in the 'Sporting very worthy holder of the on a brilliant career when at the Life' he won in absolutely decisive EXTRACTION, who were both men in action. The order was given been arranged as a Military Red championship title. He is a class National Sporting Club, London, on style. For two rounds he had rather a BORN IN HERTFORDSHIRE, for a further advance and Capt Skaife Cross Hospital. boxer and may be better still in the therefore he cannot be of either called upon a section to follow him Monday night, he defeated Johnny bad time; for the next six he boxed There are seven wards, and these Summers, the holder of the with real artistry, his method being a near future. German or Austrian descent. and try to capture 2 of the enemy’s have been named the Kitchener, Welterweight belt, in the ninth round happy combination of speed in attack On his return to the town, he was (Wrexham Advertiser, 15.08.1914) guns which were doing most of the for the British Championship. The and puzzling defence; then in the met by a large crowd at the G.W.R. mischief. Very successfully were the Albert, Joffre, French, Jellicoe, contest was witnessed by a large final round he did what few even of gallant Welsh making their way and Haigh and Smith-Dorrien wards station, who formed in procession, R crowd, which included a number of his own supporters believed him WARNING they had got up to within 5 yards of respectively. Beds of the latest and headed by the band of the R.W.F. enthusiastic friends from Wrexham, capable of doing, landed a that It has come to the knowledge the guns when Capt Skaife was killed marched through the town to the hospital pattern are prepared for the and although there was some was hard enough and true enough to of MRS LOVATT, Tobacconist by a shell. This section being much in Barracks. The hero of the hour was wounded and lockers, also of disappointment amongst Londoners knock out any welterweight in the and Hairdresser, of 31, advance of the main line, was ordered approved surgical design, are placed at the defeat of their favourite, who world. After being knocked down carried shoulder high through the Regent-street, Wrexham, that to retire when their goal was all but between each bed. The floors are was thus preventing from becoming Summers slowly rose to his feet but streets, which were lined by a large it is rumoured that she is reached. The Germans took full the permanent possessor of the belt Basham sent in another well-judged cheering crowd. of German parentage. advantage of the retreat and swept polished and a cheerful fire warms and lost a life’s pension, there was not punch which again sent Summers (Wrexham Advertiser, 19.12.1914) This is quite untrue, as she is the gallant little band with bullets each room. the daughter of Welsh and and shrapnel. There is an operating theatre and a English parents. Her father Private George H Davis, who is was a Wrexham tradesman sterilizing room and a complete X-ray now a prisoner of war in Gottingen in of many years standing, and apparatus is also to be provided. The a letter to his mother says it was was well-known to thousands kitchens are large and well-equipped. terrible to see the men die and he of inhabitants. Mrs Lovatt is considers himself very lucky to have Adjoining the kitchens is a large native born, and has lived in escaped death. Another survivor common room for the nurses and Wrexham all her life. says:- "The battle was terrible to upstairs is a smoke room for the As the rumour is calculated behold. Men were falling thick and to do her much harm in her patients. fast. They had been caught in a trap business and she will be Sister Smith will be in charge and and all that remains of the battalion reluctantly compelled to she will be assisted by four trained was 40. The rest were all killed and prosecute any person who nurses and a number of ladies of wounded in the frightful carnage." It continues the circulation of this is stated the regiment has lost 25 the Wrexham detachment of the pernicious rumour. officers killed, wounded and missing. Voluntary Aid Organisation. (Wrexham Advertiser, 31.10.1914) (Wrexham Advertiser, 14.11.1914) (Wrexham Advertiser, 5.12.1914) ------"GOD SAVE THE KING”

DEATH OF A BELGIAN SOLDIER IN WREXHAM THE FUNERAL

The internment of the remains of Joseph Verbeken, the Belgian soldier who died at the Wrexham Military Hospital, Croesnewydd, on Monday, as the result of wounds received in battle, took place at the Borough Cemetery, yesterday (Friday). He was buried with full military honours. The scene along the whole route from the Hospital to the Cemetery was an impressive one, the roadside being lined with thousands of people, who despite the inclement weather, assembled to pay their respects to one Wounded veterans convalescing at Roseneath, the new military hospital in Grove Park. (DWL 654) who had laid down his life for this country as much as for his own. About 400 troops of the 3rd Battalion R.W.F. took part in the mournful procession, and the Battalion Band played the "Dead March" in "Saul" with much effect. The coffin was covered with a Belgian flag and the Union Jack, and a number of beautiful wreaths, and the deceased soldier’s cap was placed upon it. The grave space, the gift of the Corporation, is in the Catholic portion of the soldiers’ corner. An impressive service, conducted by Rev Father Nightingale, was watched by a huge crowd of people, and at its close a party of the 3rd Battalion fired three volleys, followed by the sounding of the "Last Post" by six buglers. (Wrexham Advertiser, 7.11.1914)

Nursing staff and convalescing soldiers, Wrexham Military Hospital (WREMA 85.270.8) Wrexham Military Hospital – Arrival of wounded soldiers CHRISTMAS Johnny Basham, Champion boxer and Royal Welch Fusilier (1227) The people of Wrexham and district GIFTS FOR have been anxiously awaiting the arrival of 100 wounded soldiers. They SOLDIERS’ Road cemetery – an unexpected final resting were fully expected on Thursday and place for our Belgian hero (© Francis Frith) it is evident that a change was made CHILDREN, ETC. FUSILIER’S LIFE IN A 'MOLEHOUSE' in the arrangements as the majority of soldiers who came on Sunday were Private Moses Jones, of the 2nd in the trenches as late as Friday. The THE MAYOR AND MAYORESS Battalion, R.W.F., writing to his Red Cross train was found to contain of Wrexham invite mother from the front says: "It’s a 102 wounded Belgian soldiers of SUBSCRIPTIONS for the dreadful sensation curled up in a which a very large proportion, fully purpose of presenting Christmas trench, two feet, six inches wide, and 60 or 70, were stretcher cases. The Gifts, to the Children of the six feet deep, listening to the shells approaches to the station were Soldiers and Sailors now serving bursting in all directions. But we crowded with onlookers who watched make our situation as bright as with His Majesty’s Forces. in solemn silence. Three motor buses Subscriptions should be sent to possible with a puff of Woodbine and belonging to the Wrexham Transport the Borough Treasurer at the cracking jokes, and at the same time Company and 10 motor cars were having a peep to see if the enemy is waiting for the conveyance of the earliest possible moment, so as to advancing under the cover of the soldiers to the Hospital. The progress enable suitable gifts to be artillery. We have had some wet of the wounded through the streets to purchased for distribution on nights, but are none the worse for it: the Hospital was the occasion for Christmas Eve. If the mud up to our necks, the butts of our repeated outbursts of cheering and subscriptions exceed the amount rifles clogging, and the voice of our those who were able to do so freely required, the surplus will be commander shouting 'Keep up the waved their acknowledgements. Most utilised for providing comforts for fire!' It was kept up all the night, with of the men were in deplorable Soldiers and Sailors. our barrels red-hot... The tin of condition. They had come straight biscuits you sent is being used in the from the trenches where many of LAWSON TAYLOR, Town Clerk trench as a writing desk. I will write them had been for several weeks Guildhall, Wrexham to all the kind friends when I return without relief and their uniforms 9th December, 1914 to the face of the earth from this were mud be-spattered, torn to mole-house." shreds in places and stained with (Wrexham Advertiser, 12.12.1914) (Wrexham Advertiser, 21.11.1914) blood. (Wrexham Advertiser, 7.11.1914)

4 PLEASE DO NOT REMOVE THIS NEWSPAPER FROM THE MUSEUM WREXHAM TELEGRAPH THE GREAT WAR – COMMEMORATIVE EDITION

Noiseless Pleasure Fair Corporal Punishment A Little Wet Home Wanted in Schools. in the Trench Coedpoeth Head Teacher Alderman Jones pointed out that sued for damages. I’ve a little wet home in the Trench, permission to hold a Christmas Where the rainstorms continually drench; Pleasure Fair in the Beast Market At Wrexham County Court on Tuesday before his honour Judge There’s a dead cow close by, had been granted on condition that satisfactory arrangements were made Moss, Mary Ann Jones sued through With her hoofs t’wards the sky for the suppression of noises. Whilst her stepfather Charles Edwards, Red And she gives off a beautiful stench. out on Christmas afternoon he could Lion, of Coedpoeth, H. Ellis Hughes, Underneath in the place of a floor hear nothing but the whistles and Headmaster of the Higher Standard There’s a mass of wet wood and some straw organs from the Beast Market and it School, Penygelli, for £10 damages, And the Jack Johnsons flare * was not fair to obtain permission on for injuries allegedly inflicted certain conditions and then violate through excessive use of corporal Thro’ the rain sodden air punishment. Emily Edwards, wife of them. Of my little wet home in the trench. Charles Edwards and mother of Councillor Williams (Chairman of the Mary Ann, said that at about 8.45am on Monday, June 22nd, 1914, she sent There are snipers who keep on the go market committee) said - This is the her daughter to go to the post office to So you must keep your napper low, first complaint I have heard, but it is And their star shells at night get change. The girl was detained at true that the place was let on the Post office, and fearing that her Make a deuce of a light condition no noise was made and I daughter would be late for school, Which causes the language to flow, regret to hear the understanding Mrs. Edwards went to meet her, took Then bully and biscuits we chew, has not been observed. the change from her and sent her For it is days since we tasted a stew straight to school. On returning Councillor Rowland - In my opinion about to leave Wrexham Central Station © Denbighshire Archives, DD/DM/358/15/4 home from school Mary’s middle But with shells dropping there, a fair is no good without noise. There’s no place to compare finger of her left hand was found to be bleeding and much swollen. This had With my little wet home in the trench. Alderman Jones - The application was granted upon the distinct occurred as Mary had been caned by condition that no noises were made. Mr Hughes for being late. The hand * Jack Johnson was the name was dressed with boracic lint by her given by British soldiers to Councillor Rowland - The condition mother. Whilst at school Mary had describe the German 15cm is an impossible one. shown the wound to Mr Hughes who artillery shell that caused such was quite indifferent and callous and damage. Jack Johnson was the Alderman Jones - The people told her not to bother and just bathe world heavyweight boxing applying ought to know whether it. She was a particularly sharp and champion at the time. they can conduct the fair without brilliant pupil, well behaved and this was the first time she had been (Wrexham Advertiser, 30.01.1915) noise. caned. In spite of Mr and Mrs Mayor - Was the condition imposed Edwards regularly dressing the finger the child became more poorly by us? and a lump had developed on her left Deputy Town Clerk - It was. elbow. The following week the finger Councillor Savage - I do not think became worse and Mrs Edwards was the fair people consider it noise. obliged to seek the opinion of a Doctor. Before taking her daughter to Mayor - There is nothing we can do the Doctor, Mrs Edwards thought it about it this year but we will only fair to see the defendant. She certainly bear it in mind for next told Mr Hughes he had over-punished year. her child and Mary’s condition was (Wrexham Advertiser, 02.01.1915) the result of it. She pointed out that ------The Death of Mr A. N. Palmer the child had only been late twice during the previous quarter, upon We deeply regret to record the death which Mr Hughes called her a liar. of Mr A .N. Palmer, the historian of She replied “Oh no, Mr Hughes I am Wrexham and its neighbourhood, only going by your own report.” She which took place early on Sunday showed him the child’s finger and told morning at his residence. Mr Palmer him she would hold him responsible throughout his life suffered from for the condition of the child, to which precarious health and at the start of he remarked, “I am not responsible the winter he suffered from an attack for anybody: you can do just what you of influenza, he seemed to be on a fair like.” way towards recovery when he Charles Edwards, stepfather, an developed pneumonia and pleurisy, ex-Acting Sergeant of the under which he sank. ©Denbighshire Archives, DD/G/3924 Denbighshire Constabulary having Mr Palmer was born in Thetford retired after 26 years of service, said the son of a successful coachbuilder. that prior to being caned the child News from Holt and Farndon He was educated at Thetford was quite lively and regular in Grammar School. After school he was attendance, but afterwards her Damson buds – these are already put apprenticed to a chemist in Bury St. health was much affected. The forth, and should fine weather Edmonds. He continued to study Chairman of the managers of prevail, will develop into blossoms in diligently and won one of the two Penygelli School was called by the April. Rain fell on Tuesday and was Jacob Bell Scholarships awarded prosecution team and asked whether welcomed by the farmers and yearly, by the pharmaceutical society. he thought the punishment was growers. He worked for a short while in excessive. The judge intervened and Bloomsbury and then moved to said that is a matter for me to decide R where he started as upon! For the defence, the evidence Potatoes – owing to the cold weather, analytical chemist. In 1878 he was that the Headmaster punished very small quantities of early married Esther, the youngest all children who were late for school potatoes of any sort have been set. daughter of Mr John Francis. Whilst and Mary knew this was a rule of the (Wrexham Advertiser, 27.03.1915) in Manchester Mr Palmer threw school. There was no evidence that himself into the social work carried the stroke Mary received was more out in connection with the Mosley St. severe than that given to the other R Schools but in 1880 he moved to children. Dr Vaughn Griffiths called Arrival of swallows – These welcome Wrexham as his health was adversely by the defence said that the birds of various species have arrived affected by the atmosphere of punishment sustained was severe but in greater numbers than usual. Manchester. whether it was excessive, he declined Neither the cuckoo nor the corncrake He was initially employed as an have yet been heard. analytical chemist by the now defunct to say. Mr Hughes, the Headmaster, (Wrexham Advertiser, 01.05.1915) Zoedone Company, leaving soon after had been prepared to pay for the to take up a similar position at Doctor’s charges initially, but on who were hearing that that the matter had establishing their laboratory. Later © Denbighshire Archives, DD/G/3932 been communicated to the authorities he became the chemist for J. he went no further with the matter. Meredith Jones and Company’s Christmas Day in the Trenches Wrexham Man’s Experience Engaging a Servant His Honour in giving the Judgement said it was an unfortunate case to say Cambrian Leather Works, and In engaging a servant the matter of Writing to friends in North Wales a A deadly bullet the least of it all. It was generally conducted many scientific researches man who is serving in the London references is very important and if Private Sam Palmer of the 19th accepted that Mary was an obedient for the firm. Territorials states – We had a tackled thoroughly an after Infantry Brigade writes from the and good child and there was nothing His health, which had never been memorable Christmas day in our disappointment can be avoided. front to Mrs. Davies, Bright St. provocative in her behaviour. His robust became more precarious, he trench, we had a truce with the Whatever the faults of a servant the Wrexham. Honour felt bound to say he thought retired from active analytical work, enemy from Christmas Eve until reference should point these out Just a line to let you know that I am the punishment was excessive, the and confined himself to the historical Boxing Day morning. Not a shot clearly to the mistress about to finger had split and bled, and the researches and antiquarian pursuits fired. The truce came about this way. well and happy. The trenches are in engage her. Unless the faults are child complained all afternoon about for which he has now become famous. The Germans started singing and a very bad state due to the recent very serious the mistress will be the pain and that the finger had to be From his boyhood he had been lighting candles at 7.30 on Christmas heavy rains. It is very bad in the willing to overlook them because poulticed later that day. The Judge imbued with a love of historical study, Eve, and one of them challenged any trenches at night but it won’t be so house mistresses are willing to put up said it might be that the Headmaster and he enthusiastically turned to the one of us to go across. One of our bad when the fine weather comes. with a good deal nowadays. It is very untouched field of research presented fellows accepted the challenge and We get plenty of 'fags' and if you know annoying when servants are was unconscious of his own strength by the local and took a cake. That started the ball of anyone who sends them in thoughtless, forgetful, careless and when caning Mary, or struck harder its surroundings. He learnt enough rolling. We then met half way to Wrexham please thank them. Things unpunctual, but there are worse than intended. He would give him Welsh to be able to read Welsh books shake hands and exchange greetings. are quiet here at present, bar the faults and a willing spirit will go far the credit of not contemplating the with ease and converse with the There were some dead Germans in sniping that goes on all the time. The to compensate. Before taking a injury he inflicted, but he thought the people of the countryside in whom he the ditch in front of our trench. The condition of the trenches was so bad servant into your house advises a punishment excessive. He could not delighted. His first work entitled dead had been trying to get to our that at first that we could not fire housewife of experience – You should associate the whole condition of the ‘The Townfields of Wrexham in the outpost some time ago. We helped to without exposing ourselves. Whilst never be satisfied with a mere child’s health to the caning. It was reign of James I’ was followed by bury them and I could have had a standing in a group boiling some handwritten letter – many have been stated she had adenoids and boils and ‘Ancient Tenures in the Marches of German helmet but I did not fancy water to make a cup of tea, I was forged. Phone or call the former sores showing she was run down in Wales.’ It may be said of the man who taking it from a corpse. The Germans scraping the mud off a coat when a mistress and ask her personally as to health. He allowed the father £2, was laid to rest in a Wrexham grave seem to be very nice chaps and said bullet went through a poor chap’s the qualities good and bad of the girl which would amply repay him for any last week, that he was the man who they were awfully sick of the War. We head, past me and through the coat I and bear in mind in the case of a special expense he had been put to, was truly the discoverer of Ancient were in the trench nearly all day was scraping. But we got our own general servant even if she is not a and he awarded the child £5 for the good cook she can be taught. Recruitment posters, Salop Road, Wrexham © Wrexham. collecting souvenirs. back after dark. suffering she had gone through. Denbighshire Archives, DD/G/3917 (Wrexham Advertiser, 13.03.1915) (Wrexham Advertiser, 09.01.1915) (Wrexham Advertiser, 30.01.1915) (Wrexham Advertiser, 16.01.1915) (Wrexham Advertiser, 13.02.1915 & 13.03.1915)

PLEASE DO NOT REMOVE THIS NEWSPAPER FROM THE MUSEUM 5 WREXHAM TELEGRAPH THE GREAT WAR – COMMEMORATIVE EDITION

Christmas Day in the Workhouse Christmas Day was observed in the Soldiers’ Letters Wrexham officer Workhouse in the usual festive Wrexham Women at Work Permitted manner and nothing was wanting on Decorated by the part of Mr and Mrs Thomas and Home Office Sanction the officials to make the day as happy Correspondence has taken place His Majesty and enjoyable as possible for the between Councillor Huw T. Richards, inmates under their care. After a Chairman of the Pontypridd Society, Captain A. H. Soames, of the Royal and the Army Council with respect to substantial breakfast, service was Flying Corps, had the honour of being complaints made by Welshmen on received by the King on Thursday, held in the chapel. Dinner was active service being refused when his Majesty decorated him with partaken in the large dining room – permission to write home in the the Military Cross, awarded to him which was beautifully decorated with Welsh language. A few days ago Mr. for his distinguished services in the evergreens, flags and mottoes. Richards communicated with Lord present war. Captain Soames is the Dinner consisted of roast beef, Kitchener, stating that his son, who eldest son of Mr. and Mrs. Frederick vegetables, plum puddings and coffee. is ‘somewhere in France’ wrote a Soames, of Bryn Estyn, Wrexham. Gifts were made to the inmates of postcard in Welsh, he was called (Wrexham Advertiser, 1915) before the regimental censor and told apples and oranges for all; tobacco for to write in English, otherwise it could the men, tea and sugar for the women not be passed. He was further Welsh Fusiliers in Germany and sweets and biscuits for the informed that Welsh was not allowed An Appeal children. The cost of these being to be written as they had no-one who defrayed by a fund subscribed to by understood the language to censor it. We have received a letter from the guardians. Mr. Richards received the Pte. R. Hanks, Royal Welsh (Wrexham Advertiser, 02.01.1915) following reply from the :- Fusiliers, a prisoner of war in ‘I am commanded by the Army Germany, asking us to appeal for R Council… to inform you that in future games, eatables and cigarettes for Determined to Enlist your son…will be at liberty to conduct R.W.F. prisoners in Alltdamm. He his correspondence in Welsh if he states that “Anything will be Whilst Rhos young men are desires to do so. acceptable in these hard times, sometimes twitted with indifference Sir Jesse Herbert, secretary to the and should any of your readers be regarding the ‘call to arms’, a young Parliamentary Recruiting Committee, kind enough to send parcels, I will states that proper arrangements try to thank each one by man named George Jarvis has shown have been made for dealing with all post-card.” (Wrexham Advertiser, 1915) exceptional determination. Having such communications. been rejected at the Rhos and District (Wrexham Advertiser, 08.05.1915) recruiting office owing to a lack of Tram conductors, Wrexham & District Electric Tram Co., 1915–18 (WREMA 90.28.560) inches, he determined to join the R women had offered to go on that duty. They might think A Bradley Soldier’s Letter Bantam Battalion that is being How Women Can Help it would be rough work, say on a Saturday night, but the R.W.F and the recent fighting formed at Birkenhead. Being short of Chief of Police, who had taken a deep interest in the work, the cash to pay his fare, Jarvis For the purpose of discussing women’s work during and A letter giving a graphic and after the war, a public meeting under the auspices of the had placed his force entirely at their disposal, and if there walked the whole distance, he left interesting account of the recent Wrexham Women’s Suffrage Society, was held at the Free severe fighting in which the Royal Rhos at midnight arriving in was any mischief it would be handled completely by the Library in Wrexham, on Friday evening and was largely Welch Fusiliers participated with Birkenhead at 11am the next police. Every effort would be made to ensure the women attended. The Mayoress presided and in her opening such valour, though at heavy cost, received respect, even from a drunken man. It was stated morning. His determination was remarks, stated that in the working women of Wrexham, was received last week by Mrs Louisa that in the aftermath of war the country must be prepared rewarded and he was pronounced fit they had got material of a superior kind. No body of Edwards, Beales Cottages, Bradley and accepted. He is now a Soldier of women could have worked with greater efficiency and for a casualty list of over 250,000 and probably over a from her husband Mr Llew Edwards. the King and is the only enthusiasm than the Wrexham ladies had. She had been million permanently incapacitated. For a generation at In the letter which is dated May 19th, representative of Rhos in the Bantam privileged to work with them in many directions and more least women must be prepared to be the breadwinners. It Mr Edwards after stating he was alright, proceeds “I have thanked God Battalion. (Wrexham Advertiser, 09.01.1915) loyalty and energy could not be found in any town of its was understood that that the women of Gt. Britain would for being so, above once, this last size in Great Britain. The Wrexham organisations were do what they could for the men who had stood between three or four days. We had a terrible R simply splendid. Early in the campaign they were met them and the evils that had fallen the women of Belgium. big battle last Sunday and Monday, Rhos Territorials Killed in Action with the industrial problem and that brought forward the It was suggested the present was a splendid opportunity but I have pulled through it; but women’s question. Meetings were held which were very Patriotic postcards, 1914/15 (1049/67) In the early part of last week reports there have been a big lot of our chaps enthusiastic and satisfactory in the offers of help. Mr for women to fit themselves for occupations after the war. were freely circulated that a number killed and wounded. I shall never Hawkins, the tram manager, had taken an interest in the Dr Katherine Drinkwater pointed out various vocations forget it, for it was terrible. The of Rhos Territorials had sacrificed movement, and it had been agreed to employ women as in which women were urgently needed. chaps were dropping around me shot their lives in the recent severe conductors on the tram cars and omnibuses. Already (Wrexham Advertiser, 26.06.1915) dead, and wounded. I hope that when fighting. Unfortunately this proved you and the children go to bed at to be correct. On Thursday last night that you pray for me. I thought official communications were it was all over with me, but I suppose received by the families of the Rhos God was looking after me. The Company that the following men had Germans won’t forget the R.W.F for we mowed them down like skittles. lost their lives: Corporal Robert The General said he could not praise Parry, who was married with three us enough for our splendid work. We children; Private Edward Evans who have gone up the country today leaves a wife and two children; (Wednesday) for a rest, which I think Private William Fail who also leaves we can do with. ‘Tom the Sands’ had a wife and two children; Private John his two shin bones broken with shell Griffiths and Lance Corporal Albert fire and Dai Evans’ lad from got wounded; but I can’t Prescott. (Wrexham Advertiser, 13.02.1915) say what became of Tom Tyler; he is missing I believe. There were me and R Sam Crewe and Jack Lewis from the The Lusitania Disaster ‘Croppy’ pulled through without a scar, but the sights I saw I shall never A Coedpoeth Victim forget. The battlefield was covered with dead and wounded men, but we The grave news that a well-known kept on going and the Germans kept Coedpoeth man, Mr Thomas running away, but there was a Williams, was among the victims of terrible lot of Germans killed and the Lusitania that sunk off the coast wounded. Well we made the charge of Ireland last Friday have been at four in the morning and by half verified. On Monday, May 3rd, Mrs past the R.W.Fus had taken three rows of trenches off the Germans. Williams received a letter from her They will never forget us. Their husband, to the effect that he was bullets were flying around us like starting from New York on the Group photograph, Official christening of the Borough of Wrexham’s first motorized fire engine, 1915 © Denbighshire Archives, DD/G/2262 hailstorms, but on we went, and our Lusitania on May 1st, and desiring chaps that fell wounded were her to meet him at . She shouting ‘Go on lads let them have prepared to comply with his request, it!’, but my word, Tommy Atkins does and on Friday sent her brother to Wrexham’s New Motor Fire Engine not want much telling to go when he Wrexham to enquire what time the gets warm. Lou, I must close for this time as I am tired after a long march, ship was expected to arrive. He speed, while it experiences no difficulty whatever in but will write again soon.” Inauguration Ceremony taking the steepest gradients found on any public roads. returned with the staggering and (Wrexham Advertiser, 05.06.1915) tragic intelligence that the Lusitania Yesterday (Friday) the new Motor Fire Engine which, the The power of the machine can be imagined from the fact had fallen victim to a German Wrexham Corporation has purchased, was named and its that it is capable of delivering 500 gallons of water each submarine attack. The anxious capacities exhibited. minute at a pump pressure of 120lbs. to the square inch, and 600 gallons a minute at a pump pressure of 100lbs. A relatives instituted every possible The new engine has an exceedingly fine appearance. It is a four-cylinder engine of 75 B.H.P, and has a 500 great point in the new engine is its capacity to deal with inquiry. The following letter was gallon turbine with hose tender combined. Fitted with a small fires. Upon arrival at a fire, the fireman can obtain received from the Cunard Steamship 40 gallon fire-aid equipment on the Morris system, it is instantaneously a small stream that will extinguish a Co. Ltd. “With reference to your admirably adapted for dealing with small fires, while it very considerable fire. inquiry from our agent in Wrexham, carries a 20 foot Ajax sliding fire escape. The machine is The engine was named in front of the Guildhall by Miss we have to advise you that the name capable of carrying 14 men, and no less than 2,000 feet of Elsie Taylor, daughter of Councillor T. Buchanan Taylor, of Thomas Williams appears on the hose, in addition to all the usual appurtenances of a Chairman of the Watch Committee of the Wrexham modern fire brigade. All the lamps are simultaneously lit list of third class passengers from Corporation which Committee has charge of the Fire from the same switch on the dashboard and the current is New York on the Lusitania. We are Brigade. The engine was named ‘Maud Elsie’, Miss generated by an electric dynamo which is also fitted. sorry that we have no further news of Taylor’s own name and Miss Taylor very gracefully named Undoubtedly one of the chief features of the engine is the him.” As no further news was heard absence of complicated mechanism, for every operation the engine and expressed her best wishes for its future of him there was little doubt that he connected with it is simplicity itself. The chassis is use. Mr. Taylor, on his daughter’s behalf, thanked the perished. specially designed and constructed for fire brigade work, Corporation for the compliment paid to Miss Taylor in Mr Williams’ son who enlisted with and the great strength of the frame work, which has steel asking her to name the engine after her own name. He the R.W.F. soon after the outbreak of channel sides is very noticeable. The size of the engine believed the engine would give satisfaction and prove of War is now a prisoner in Germany. cylinders, and the amount of reserve power of the engine great use. It had been produced by a firm which came (Wrexham Advertiser, 08.05.1915) makes it possible to propel the machine at practically any from a Welsh stock. (Wrexham Advertiser, 10.04.1915) (Wrexham Archives, 1061-64)

6 PLEASE DO NOT REMOVE THIS NEWSPAPER FROM THE MUSEUM WREXHAM TELEGRAPH THE GREAT WAR – COMMEMORATIVE EDITION The Charge Wrexham and the of the Royal Welsh Wrexham Man’s Vivid Description Pte. J. Bevan, 4913, Royal Welsh Fusiliers, writing to his mother, Mrs Making of Shells E. Bevan, 42, Beast Market, Wrexham says:-

A meeting was convened on Thursday Dear Mother – Just a few words to let to discuss the progress that has been you know that my wound is not serious. When I think of that awful made in connection with the morning I cannot but wonder how I movement which has for its object the came off so lucky. It was not fighting making of war munitions in it was murder. Our men fought like Wrexham. To get the largest output heroes, undaunted by the terrible fire from the German rifles and maxims. of shells, it is proposed that all the I see them in my mind’s eye, lathes and drills in the locality should advancing in two’s and three’s be obtained and brought together stumbling over the bodies of their under one roof, and the fullest use dead comrades – who lay all too made of them. It was thought that plentiful on the field, their only objective, their only desire to get at the owners of these machines would grips with the Germans. I could be extremely willing to lend them, for write a dozen pages about their they recognise the urgent need there heroism, but I will not as it can is to produce large quantities of hardly be described on paper. I will instead tell you of myself. It was Munitions workers and mortar shells, Wrexham, 1915–18 (WREMA 91.34.5) munitions, and it would be a patriotic breaking day when we had the order way to help King and country. When to attack and I must admit I was the machinery is installed it is feeling far from brave, however, there essential to keep it going to the fullest was no holding back. It had to be done. I climbed over the parapet and extent. It is encouraging to see that dropped the other side and made for in various parts of the country a the German trench at a steady run. hearty response is being made to the Much to my surprise I got there earnest appeals of Mr Lloyd George, unhurt, although my colleagues were falling on either side. The first trench Minister of Munitions. An appeal is reached, we now had to get to the being made for an auxiliary army of second, but I had hardly taken three Medical Inspection of munitions workers. At about two paces before I felt an awful bang in hundred centres in the country a my left shoulder and I dropped. My Wrexham Schoolchildren chum, a lad I was fond of who was seven days campaign was opened following me was also hit and “Your skill is needed. Shot and shell, dropped by my side, but as he was The dangers of bad teeth ships and guns, munitions of war of dropping he was hit again and died In his annual report on the medical which the permanent teeth appear. every kind are required. Your instantly. His dead body shielded me inspection of schoolchildren at One hundred and eighteen children brothers – your pals – your fellow or I should have been riddled. When Wrexham, Dr T.W. Jones furnishes were found to have defective vision. The making of munitions, Wrexham, 1915–18 (WREMA 91.34.14) our chaps had advanced further I was countrymen – are fighting for you, for information as to the physical Seventy eight children, or 6.66% were able to get out of it and was taken to condition of 1,171 who were noted as being of sub-normal King, for Empire. They are fit and hospital. examined during the year 1914. nutrition, the nutrition of the other Shell Making in Wrexham ready. Skill, courage and heroism are Will finish now from your loving son – Decay of the teeth, he observed was children was normal or excellent. theirs, deserving the full support of Bromley. by far the most widespread of all the The adoption of the Education (Wrexham Advertiser, 1915) defects that the children suffered; the (Provision of Meals) Act by the Following a further meeting re:- manufacture of munitions in Wrexham it has the whole nation behind them. They importance of attending to their Authority had had a beneficial effect been proposed and accepted by the Munitions Committee for the initiation must be supplied with munitions – it children’s teeth was not sufficiently on the children whose sub-normal and management of a shell factory at the Willow Rd., Depot, Wrexham. It is urgent and imperative – and YOU appreciated by their parents. Only condition had been due to a lack of was also agreed that a factory inspector be co-opted on to the Munitions 18.7% of the children had sound food. can help to supply them.” Committee, and that a lathe, drilling and grinding machine be purchased at teeth. It was suggested that extensive The importance of ensuring the cost of £275. (Wrexham Advertiser, 10.07.1915) (Wrexham Advertiser, 26.06.1915) dental disease of this nature favoured schoolchildren’s health were the development of many ailments in emphasised by Professor Darroch “It later life through the constant is apparent that there is a gradual The Bishop of Bangor, who presided absorption of poisonous material and awakening of the nation to the fact Waifs and Strays Society on Monday afternoon, at the annual this tended to weaken the natural that the care of the physical nature of meeting of the Waifs and Strays Embroidered Christmas card, made in France, powers of resistance in the body. the child during the school period is War teaches the value of child life Society said that a feeling seemed to 1914–17 (WREMA 85.270.29) Arrangements had been made at the of fundamental importance from the spreading that children seemed to be school clinic, lately established near point of view of the future welfare of Margarine v. Butter the Victoria School to deal more the nation.” an encumbrance, almost a especially with the period of life at (Wrexham Advertiser, 27.03.1915) misfortune, causing privations to An animated discussion arose on a their parents of comfort, of pleasure resolution by the House Committee to and of luxury. Children were often substitute margarine for butter in the seen as a burden to the State diet of the paupers in the Workhouse. generally. How to get rid of Mr T. Taylor expressed his entire superfluous population was an disagreement with the suggestion to important economic problem of substitute margarine for butter; he the day. said the residents received six to But the War has taught us to look seven ounces of butter per week and at them in a different light. It had the bread was three-quarters of an been found that the great strength of Germany was its great population. If inch thick and it would take a France had had an equal population microscope to spot the butter. There to Germany she would have been able were fewer inmates than a year ago to engage her enemy on equal terms and Mr. Taylor hoped that if without our assistance, and with our economies were to be made it would assistance would have been able to not be at the expense of the paupers. bring a preponderance of numbers to A heated discussion followed where bear that Germany would now be the salaries of the officials at the invaded, and would probably have Capt. Eric Evans, 4RWF, killed in action 10.05.1915, John Philip Price, killed in action 16.05.1915, aged 23, workhouse were discussed, and aged 23, Grove Park County School for Boys Roll of Grove Park County School for Boys Roll of Honour © asked for peace long ago. questions asked whether these had Honour © Denbighshire Archives, DD/ED/GS/11/84 Denbighshire Archives, DD/ED/GS/11/84 (Wrexham Advertiser, 26.06.1915) been excessive. It was decided that for the present time butter should be kept on the table. (Wrexham Advertiser, 28.08.1915) R Entertainment at the Empire Week commencing June 28th 1915 Excellent pictures are being shown this week. The programme consists of pictures, including “Two Acts of True Life”, this is the portrayal of German brutality to a family of Belgians and will be lectured upon by M. Fermin De Moll, who lost an arm in saving a girl. The presence of Ray Western, a fine soprano vocalist, and George Young, a clever blind concertina soloist and musician, assisted by Mrs. George Young, serves to enhance further an extremely fine programme. (Wrexham Advertiser, 26.06.1915) (Wrexham Archives, 1049/31-37)

PLEASE DO NOT REMOVE THIS NEWSPAPER FROM THE MUSEUM 7 WREXHAM TELEGRAPH THE GREAT WAR – COMMEMORATIVE EDITION

excellently cooked meal, consisting of Christmas at turkey with bread sauce, pork with apple sauce, boiled ham, plum Wrexham soldier’s experiences in Gallipoli Wrexham pudding, mince pies and sweets. the Barracks After dinner, tobacco, cigarettes and Writing from the Tropical School possessions. I don’t think I ever want was sent to hospital and there to a Christmas Day was celebrated at the liquid refreshments were served. Military Hospital, Liverpool, Co to see it rain like it did that night. hospital ship, where we were made Gentleman’s Barracks with the usual festivities. During dinner the King’s message to Sgt-Major Bert Davies, a well-known The lightning was awful and it was very comfortable. We were Dinner was served in the Wynnstay the troops was read to the men. Wrexham printer says “I have been pitch dark, but by the morning the transferred to another hospital ship Block, which had been beautifully There was a sing-song until tea and here a week and I don’t know how water had gone down and we were and were brought back to Old Visit to the long I shall be here yet, as I am still able to return to the trenches, which decorated – indeed it was the opinion after that a very successful smoking England, arriving a little over a week of experienced officers and others concert. Special entertainment was very shaky. I have been suffering still contained 2 feet of water. To from the effects of frost-bitten feet make things more lively it started to ago. I am glad to say I am getting on who saw the work of the men that also provided for the men in the and exposure to cold. We had a freeze and snow and the next day we very well, and hope to be fit again Front - hospital, where, it is agreeable to never had they seen anything more terrible time during the last few days were nothing but walking lumps of very soon. I suppose the biggest part tasteful and pretty. About 100 men learn, the number is small. I was in Gallipoli. We were flooded clay. I could scarcely walk, my feet, of the boys have joined the army sat down to a well-served and (Wrexham Advertiser, 01.01.1916) out of our trenches and lost all my as well as my fingers, were awful. I now.” (Wrexham Advertiser, 22.01.1916) Interesting Interview

A small party of representatives of the Lancashire, Cheshire and North and South Wales districts of the Western Command – comprised of gentlemen who have rendered signal service to their country in the matter of recruiting – has paid a visit to the battlefield of France. The only representative of the 23rd Area Command was Mr A Seymour-Jones of Wrexham, whose indefatigable efforts in connection with recruiting in Denbighshire are so well known. Mr Seymour-Jones has courteously consented to relate a few of his impressions and experiences. “Our first visit to the trenches was absolutely unique. We arrived on the far south of the British lines when the French had lost – through gassing – a Hightown Barracks (RWF Depot), Wrexham (WREMA 90.28.44.1) portion of their front line. A terrific bombardment, resembling a continuous roll of thunder, was proceeding at the time and it is now known that the Germans suffered greater losses in that engagement than they did at the battle of Loos. Needless to say it was an experience I shall never forget. Probably owing to our curiosity on endeavouring to see over the trenches we were evidently spotted, with the result that the Germans fired several “sausage” or trench bombs (which are about 30 inches in length) in our direction. The gyrations of the “sausage” in its flight struck me as very curious and I was reminded very forcibly of the jerky, twisting movement of the trout on the end of a line on being lifted out of the water. We ducked and sheltered as well as we could and fortunately no-one was hurt. We were able to witness the various Dining Hall, RWF Depot, Wrexham (WREMA 90.28.442) methods of trench warfare – the rifle Fashion and Things Feminine – grenade, trench bombs, hand grenades, catapult bombs etc. and we Three Belgian Recipes visited all the headquarters and The Belgian women are very good travelled about 5 miles of trenches. cooks and some of their cooking is Before leaving, the British artillery, including the “heavies” was brought worth noting. The following, for into action and we had the instance, has been given to us by a satisfaction of knowing that the little Belgian housewife, whose trench from which the “sausages” had cookery is most excellent. The come was blown to atoms, a weights stated are sometimes rather wonderful example of the accuracy of vague (I give them in her own words) our fire. but the recipes on the whole, are We were able to visit the sufficiently definite to be worth battlefields on which the 4th RWF passing on. There follows recipes for have performed so valorously and I Currant Bread and Rabbit Pate but can only describe that portion of the country as one of complete desolation. I’ll detail here the recipe for Woods had been absolutely mown Speculation Biscuits. down by shells and houses and farms These biscuits are very nice for were in ruins, but one thing which afternoon tea. The recipe is 5 cupfuls struck us as very remarkable was the of flour, 3 cupfuls of brown sugar, large number of huge crosses quarter pound of butter and containing the figure of the Crucified margarine, one egg, half a cupful of Christ – to be seen in many of the cold water, a pinch of cinnamon, a Doughnuts made with Potatoes crossroads in France – which teaspoonful of bicarbonate of soda. A housewife’s recipe for doughnuts remained intact despite the fact that Mix all ingredients overnight and the made with potatoes is worth passing adjoining buildings were completely on. The ingredients are 4 demolished. following day make up the mixture The most memorable event we into flat biscuits and bake in a tablespoonfuls of butter, one cupful each of mashed potatoes, milk and participated in was a review of the moderate oven til cooked. The Welsh Army under General Owen biscuits should be the same as sugar, two eggs, 3 teaspoonfuls of baking powder, flour enough to make Phillips by Mr Lloyd George and gingerbread nuts, or maybe all into a soft dough and a flavouring ourselves within 2 miles of the somewhat larger, if preferred. of any spices preferred. trenches. Amid the roar of the (Wrexham Advertiser, 08.01.1916) Cream the butter, add the sugar, cannon and the “rip” of the machine ------the eggs (beaten) and the potatoes; gun these brave chaps, just out of the Wrexham Soldier’s Serious Accident then add the milk and sift in the dry trenches, marched past to the martial ingredients; turn the dough out on a strains of “The Men of Harlech,” In a letter to his wife, Pte S Shone, floured board, pat and roll it into a played by a brass band. Small who is serving at the front with the slab half-an-inch thick and cut out wonder is it that the sight and the 15th Service Battalion, RWF says: rings of the size of the top of an whole surroundings caused a lump to rise in our throats. ‘While coming up country by train, egg-cup or larger. Then fry the doughnuts in boiling fat. The cheeriest optimism seemed to another man and myself were in pervade the whole battle line and all charge of some horses in a van. Two (Wrexham Advertiser, 28.10.1916) ------the men I spoke to were absolutely of them had colic and got on to the Bryn Garden Housing Scheme - confident of victory, but concluded floor, upsetting the others. One of with the inevitable remark ‘But when them plunged forward knocking me The Inauguration are the others coming?’ out on to the line, the horse following. On Monday the inauguration of the (Wrexham Advertiser, 19.02.1916) No one in the train knew it had first housing scheme undertaken by happened until it arrived at its the Wrexham Rural District Council destination, some 15 or 20 miles took place at Bryn Gardens, the new (WREMA 84.90.9) suburb of Rhos, when a memorial away. The train was travelling at a stone was unveiled. The scheme POEM FROM THE TRENCHES good speed. It happened at 10 o’clock designed by the Council Engineer, The following poem has been written by at night, the second night after we originally contemplated the erection Pte. Albert Jones of Coedpoeth at the front: landed in France. As luck had it, I fell of 66 houses on the excellent site clear of the metals. When I came to I which overlooks Johnstown and the “SING ME TO SLEEP” saw a man with a lamp near the great Cheshire Plain. It is high above Sing me to sleep where the bullets fall, the level of the surrounding country Let me forget the world and all; railway. I shouted and he came and Damps is my dug-out, cold are my feet; took me to his house. His wife and commands a view which is extremely fine. Owing to the war, the Nothing but ‘bully’ and biscuits to eat. washed my face. They were French original number of houses has been people and treated me very kindly. reduced and the portion of the Sing me to sleep in some old shed - They afterwards took me to the A dozen rat-holes around my head - scheme which was inaugurated on Stretched out upon my waterproof nearest station, two miles away and Monday represented 22 neat and Dodging the raindrops that fall from the roof. handed me over to a British Officer. I well-designed workman’s dwellings. lost the Battalion for 2 days, but I All have excellent kitchens and some Far, far from Ypres, I long to be, found them again after a lot of have a parlour and kitchen. All save Where German snipers can’t ‘pot’ at me; four have a bath in the back kitchen, travelling about. It was a terrible Think of me crouching where worms do creep; which, when not in use, is covered Waiting the sergeant to sing me to sleep. experience but thank God I am nearly and so acts as a table. Boilers for alright again. I was only in the washing are provided and in the yard PTE. ALBERT JONES (Y Golchwr) hospital a day and a night.’ is a coalhouse and the usual offices. 2nd Batt. R.W.F. “Somewhere in France” (Wrexham Advertiser, 15.01.1916) (Wrexham Advertiser, 15.01.1916) (Wrexham Advertiser, 29.01.1916) ©Denbighshire Archives, DD/G/3924

8 PLEASE DO NOT REMOVE THIS NEWSPAPER FROM THE MUSEUM WREXHAM TELEGRAPH THE GREAT WAR – COMMEMORATIVE EDITION The Observer Abroad Wrexham Borough Tribunal – The Military Service Act – Conscientious Objectors The interesting discovery has been Robert Roberts BSc aged 28 of 45 Local Tribunal at Wrexham made that the fighting man has a Princess Street, schoolteacher, The first meeting of the Local of 4 months was granted. bigger brain – if the size of the head is claimed absolute exemption as far as Tribunal for the Borough of Wrexham An application was made in respect any criterion – than the man who military service of any kind was under the new regulations was held of a machine hand at Messrs Aston’s at the Guildhall last (Friday) Manufacturing Works, Johnstown, on stays at home. The shrinkage in the concerned for the following reasons: size of hats has reached its maximum evening. The Clerk explained there the ground that he was the sole “War is organised murder which I was no question of postponement to support of his mother, who was a at the present and a local clothier could neither approve of nor later Groups. Any exemptions widow. Applicant said he earned 23s tells me that it is general throughout participate in without being granted must be temporary, per week and gave his mother £1 of the country. The relationship criminally guilty before God. War is a conditional or absolute. it. He had been the support of the between the size of the hat and flat contradiction of the teaching of An application was made in respect home for 12 years and if he were brainpower opens an interesting of a clerk who was employed in the called up he believed it would mean a Jesus Christ. True patriotism is point and the question whether a preparation of income taxes, land breakdown in his mother’s health. working for the highest national man chooses to march along the line taxes and house duty assessments for The tribunal replied that his mother good, educating the young does that.” of duty because he had a bigger brain total exemption on the ground that would be better off with the War The chairman of the board and the he was indispensable. The court Office allowance. The applicant had or whether the other men in Military representative then asked a mused whether this would be an no personal objection to becoming a possession of a smaller, though finer, series of questions of the applicant. advantage (Laughter). His employer soldier. A three months exemption brain was able to perceive greater The applicant was a Baptist and had discussed the possibility of a was granted. advantages in staying at home, is substitute with his staff and they Several other cases were heard and open to discussion. followed the teachings of Christ. were at a loss to know what would various periods of exemption were (Wrexham Advertiser, 03.06.1916) Supposing you saw a wounded happen if he went. If he went it granted. The Tribunal sat from soldier lying by the road, would you would impose terrific burdens on 6.30pm to 11pm. R raise finger to help him – I would. other people. A temporary exemption (Wrexham Advertiser, 19.02.1916) National Anthem Supposing two men came along and A correspondent writes “May I the life of another man was venture to ask you to make a threatened and by a simple action on suggestion. As you are aware at the your part you saved that life, even close of all entertainments, picture though by it you destroyed one of the shows etc. ‘God Save the King’ is other two? - That would only be played. In very many instances, the killing one to save another. first note is a signal to the audience But there may be justice on one to put on coat, cloak and hat and side and injustice on the other. We move to the doors. I think we should contend that this war is a just war stand whilst it is being played. It is a and that if we had not undertaken it, bit of a patriotic ritual we should all we should have gone down in the eyes observe. At the picture shows a of the world and her sons for all times message on the screen would be would have been ashamed of her. useful. The children are probably Don’t you think it is up to you to taught at school what to do, but protect your country? – I am doing my adults and children need reminding. duty to my country by doing what I Perhaps those in authority will take consider according to my conscience the hint. to be national work. Wrexham District Military Service Tribunal © Denbighshire Archives, DD/DM/343/35 (Wrexham Advertiser, 28.10.1916) The applicant later made it clear he objected to doing anything connected EDITORIAL Wrexham Board of Guardians – LetterR from the front with the war machine, including The Holidays The Margarine Question One of our local residents, signing digging trenches, but would dig It is difficult to imagine that a single There was an animated discussion on himself “Tommy Atkins” * sends me trenches for the Corporation for the British workman can be found to turn a resolution moved by Mrs Fenwick the following letter from the front:- defence of the town if thought a deaf ear to the earnest appeal of Mr “That the best quality margarine be On behalf of myself and other necessary. Lloyd George to abstain from taking a substituted for butter in the diets of Wrexham fellows I would be very What is the difference between holiday during the coming the inmates of the Workhouse”. She pleased if you would publish the digging a trench for your country in Whitsuntide. Hard workers though said that when a similar resolution France and digging a trench, say in was moved some months ago, she following: Well, sir, some people may they are, it is absurd to think their lot ? I have been unable to stood against it, but she did not think that we don’t see any football comparable to the gallant fellows at understand from the beginning of the realise then what price the butter out here. But we do. We have the the front. Their daily tasks team of all talents. George Ground, war, how digging a trench in France would reach, nor did she realise how concluded, they can return to their goal; Tom Sandbag (who never gives will save this country. many of the ratepayers – in large and homes in peace and comfort under an inch of ground) and Gilbert The tribunal decided to exempt the small houses – used margarine. In remunerative conditions they have Barbed Wire (a good tackler), backs; applicant from combatant service, but discussion it was pointed out that never before experienced, whilst their Starlight (who enlightens the not from non-combatant service. The they had to economise and that it was brothers are liable at any moment to impossible to detect it from butter. players), Billy Machine (a good applicant intimated he would appeal be blown to atoms. (Cries of “No, no.”) It was argued that feeder) and Fred Sniper (who never against the decision. A little cross may mark the spot the use of margarine would mean misses a chance), half backs; Billy (Wrexham Advertiser, 18.03.1916) Rifle (always potting at goal), Joe where some poor brother is sleeping only £43 a year of saving and that they were going to economise at the Whizz Bang, Bob Grenade (who is his last sleep having given his all to expense of the poor people who were dangerous at close quarters), Walter With the Welshmen his native land. To think that this unfortunate in life. It meant taxing Bayonet and Jack Shrapnel, brother may be living today in the full the poor people whose only luxury in forwards. Any chap wishing to see to Berlin vigour of young manhood but for an life was good, wholesome bread and extra quarter of an hour not put in at the 4th Batt RWF v Krupps, call at On the road in stricken Flanders butter. One member advised that the lathe by the ammunition worker the Administrative Centre, Poyser St, There’s a place that’s vacant still they were using margarine at the Wrexham, or at any Recruiting There’s a rifle lying silent at home, is well-nigh unendurable. County Asylum, which earned the Office, where you will get a suit of There’s a uniform to fill Men of Britain arise and shake off rejoinder “They do not know what khaki, a bob and a free pass to enter your lethargy and toil on every Those at home will hate to lose you they eat there.” After much the football field in Flanders. minute available. This is no time for But the march will soon begin - discussion, the resolution was (Wrexham Advertiser, 15.01.1916) laying down tools and resting. defeated by 20 votes to 18. On the road through stricken Belgium (Wrexham Advertiser, 03.06.1916) (Wrexham Advertiser, 26.02.1916) * Tommy Atkins was the name used With the Welshmen to Berlin in official documents to describe a private in the . Whether In your home securely resting a local resident actually wrote the Are you there content to stay letter or was even a soldier on active While the others guard your honour service is open to question. While the Germans toast ”The Day” During the evening, two deaths For your King and country need you Appalling Bomb took place in the Infirmary, the Soldiers’R Badge of Fitness victims being Violet Williams and And we want to count you in - daughter, Sarah. Pte Bagnall lost It will be noticed that many of the On the road through stricken Belgium Tragedy at Moss one leg and the other may have to be soldiers walking about our streets With the Welshmen to Berlin amputated. Subsequently (Friday) wear differently shaped pieces of blue Mary Roberts succumbed to her cloth on each arm just below the When at length the foe is vanquished Four killed, injuries. Mrs Roberts has lost both epaulette. These badges, which have legs and Mrs Bagnall, the whole of puzzled the public a good deal are When the boys come home at last one foot and half the other. simply classification marks given by Won’t you wish that you had listened three injured The house is a chamber cottage, doctors. Each soldier is examined by Ere Old England’s need had passed with a living room and bedroom on the ground floor, immediately above a medical board and placed into one But the gate of manhood opens A shocking accident occurred at Moss are two rooms which constitute of five classes according to his You your part can still begin - on Thursday resulting in a child another chamber dwelling and above progress in recovery from wounds or being killed outright and in six other On the road through stricken Belgium these are another two rooms illness. A whole battalion can be With the Welshmen to Berlin persons being terribly injured, three belonging to the Red Lion Inn. The paraded in its classes, showing at of whom subsequently died. window of the kitchen, in which the once the various stages of fitness of It appears that Pte Bagnall, 4th accident occurred, was completely In the lonely wayside graveyards RWF, 2 Red Lion Cottages, Moss, who the men. It may be interesting to give blown out. the meaning of the marks:- Oblong: Sleep the boys whose work is done returned home from the front on It was exceedingly fortunate that Fit for active service. Triangle: Don’t you hear the voices calling Monday after 18 months service, was the number of victims was not cleaning an unexploded German fuse greater than it actually proved to be. Garrison duty abroad. Diamond: To complete the work begun shell, which he had brought with him At the time of the accident, the little Home service only. Circle: There are ghostly fingers beckoning as a souvenir. Six persons were in son of Mrs Roberts was standing in Unclassified for further treatment. the house: his wife, Mary, daughter, There are victories yet to win - the doorway eating a piece of bread Square: Discharged. On the road through stricken Belgium Sarah, aged 2, a niece, Violet and butter and the noise of the falling The vertical gold stripe worn by the Williams, aged 7 and sister-in-law, bomb caused him to lurch forward wounded soldier to distinguish him With the Welshmen to Berlin Mrs Sarah Roberts with her 2 suddenly, clear of the entrance. He children, Mary and Ethel, aged 5 and from the home service man is now was immediately under the window very much in evidence. The number When from Mons they fought each footstep 15 months. outside, when it was shattered and The shell slipped from his hand on he probably owes his life to his of stripes worn indicates not, as many When their lips with pain were dumb to the floor and exploded with terrific smallness of stature. Mrs Hughes, believe, the number of wounds ‘Twas their hopes which held the trenches force. Ethel, who was sitting on her the occupant of the room above, had received, but the number of times the Always thinking you would come mother’s knee, was blown through an exceedingly narrow escape, a piece wearer has been sent home with Thro’ the frozen hell of winter the door into the yard and died of shell penetrated the flooring, wounds. I am told these stripes are Thro’ the shrapnel’s racking din – almost immediately. The remaining missing her face by a hair’s breadth. purchased by the Tommies six received shocking injuries and The fragment passed through the themselves. If this is so, then it is They have waited, never doubting most of the contents of the room were ceiling into the room of the Red Lion, quite conceivable that they may be That you’d join them to Berlin smashed to atoms. The reports of the where the daughter of the licensee explosion reported through the Moss also marvellously escaped injury. worn by men not entitled to them. I Valley and the crowd of people who The shell penetrated the ceiling of do not say they are, but as a THOMAS WILLIAMS speedily rushed to the scene beheld a this room also and carried away a safeguard they should be issued by 11 Watery Lane, Wrexham sickening scene of mangled limbs couple of slates in the roof. the military authorities alone. (Wrexham Advertiser, 11.03.1916) among the debris. (Wrexham Advertiser, 11.03.1916) (Wrexham Advertiser, 19.08.1916)

PLEASE DO NOT REMOVE THIS NEWSPAPER FROM THE MUSEUM 9 WREXHAM TELEGRAPH THE GREAT WAR – COMMEMORATIVE EDITION

A Broughton Hero Wrexham Soldier Killed Observer Abroad - The Pancake Bell Health in the Munition Factory How a Broughton soldier met his Pte William Finnigan has been killed It is interesting to note that the The Health Munition Workers death in the present great push in action. The deceased, who was 19, pancake bell was rung at Wrexham Committee has prepared four new provides a stirring narrative of was formerly employed at Parish Church on Tuesday. It was Memoranda dealing with ‘Industrial British pluck and bravery. The hero Colliery. He had been serving at the the ancient custom that after Fatigue and Its Causes,’ ‘Special concerned was Pte Hywel Price of the confession and absolution on Shrove front with the RWF for 11 months Industrial Diseases,’ ‘Ventilation and RWF. Tuesday (the ‘shriving day’), people Lighting,’ and ‘Sickness and Injury’. From a letter received from a and on the day of his death he had should feast and enjoy themselves parted from his regiment in the Dealing with special industrial sergeant in the same Company, it before the beginning of Lenten fast. diseases, the committee mention that appears that they were engaged in a course of battle and when killed was The only vestige of the feasting seems operatives in the manufacture of tri particularly hot part of the line. Pte operating with the Royal Hussars. A to be the pancake, a very mild –nitrotoluol (Editor: now commonly Price was wounded, but after having letter from a comrade says “He was concession to the things of the flesh. his wound hastily dressed, he The pancake bell which was at one called TNT) have been found affected shot in the head after he got his by unusual drowsiness, frontal returned to the trench. He was again bayonet in a German. There were six time rung at most places on Shrove wounded and stubbornly refusing to headache, eczema and loss of German dead in front of him, so he Tuesday, was originally a summons to be conveyed to safety, he again confession. Later, however, it was the appetite. If the exposure is continued must have done a great bit before he returned to the fray. The third time, signal for the commencement of all then the symptoms tend to become however, he was fatally wounded and went under. I expect he would have kinds of festivities, including, of more severe, while in a few cases died in a short time. This happened sooner died like that than on his bed, course, the eating of pancakes. profound jaundice with danger to life on July 20th and, according to the for he had a pleasant smile on his face Wrexham still retains the old custom has superseded and even death has letter, the deceased was when I found him” of ringing the bell. resulted. recommended for gallantry. (Wrexham Advertiser, 28.10.1916) (Wrexham Advertiser, 11.03.1916) (Wrexham Advertiser, 01.04.1916) A native of , Pte Price was 27 and was attached to the RWF for many years, having served for a long period in India. He arrived at the front in August 1914 and had come through practically scatheless. The Escaped German (Wrexham Advertiser, 05.08.1916) ------Gwersyllt Soldier’s Escape from the Germans Mrs Dooley of Gwersylt has received Prisoners a letter from her son, who is serving at the front in which he relates an exciting story of capture and escape. He states that after a heavy British attack he was engaged in bandaging Captured Near Wrexham a colleague when a big German caught hold of him. “I had to give in for the time being, because there were three more with him, but I said An Exciting Chase to myself ‘I am going to fight and never will be a prisoner.’ I was watching my chance all the time and Considerable excitement prevailed in Wrexham and The Bwlchgwyn party, under the charge of PC Edwards before I got to the German trenches I district over the weekend caused by the news that 4 having proceeded some distance along the moors, met the kicked the German down and ran for German prisoners, who had escaped from their young man, Tom Jones, who was still at his post, 20 yards, where I found a German internment camp at Frongoch, near Bala, on Thursday, vigilantly watching the movements of the Germans. rifle and shot him. I then ran as hard as I could to my own lines. A good had been recaptured not far from Wrexham. Whether or not the fugitives by this time were aware of many shots came after me, but thank The prisoners must have left the camp a good time the fact that they had been “spotted,” they seemed to God for His good will, I got here before their escape was discovered on Saturday. Search content themselves with lying down in the heather. The alright.” parties were promptly organised and set to work in every height and thickness of the heather rendered it impossible (Wrexham Advertiser, 05.08.1916) direction. Although the surrounding country afforded for the men to be seen, but Constable Edwards having ------excellent hiding places, it was clear that the minute been informed of the spot where they were seen to settle “DAILY MAIL” AND LOCAL TRIBUNALS description which had been published of the men, coupled themselves down, set about surrounding the spot. The From the Special Correspondent with the fact that none of them could speak English plan worked admirably and the fugitives upon looking up of the “Daily Mail”:- fluently, would not enable them to remain at large for any found a formidable ring surrounding them. In the busy, bustling town of considerable time and least of all effect an escape. PC Edwards asked them what they were doing there Wrexham, the metropolis of North Information reached Wrexham about half-past five on and received the reply they had come from where Wales, a most curious state of affairs Saturday evening that the fugitives had been seen on the they had been on a trip. Two of the men stated that they presents itself. It is a town of fierce broad expanse of moors which lie between the villages of were Welshmen. The appearance of the four men tallied military and anti-military contrasts. Two tribunals sit at different times. Bwlchgwyn and and Deputy Chief Constable almost exactly with the published description except for The borough tribunal – commercial Tippett accompanied by a special constable, motored up the fugitive called Breakmann, who seemed to have taken and business like – is avid to feed the immediately. Meanwhile, it seems that about 5.20 PC the precaution of ridding himself of his “imperial” beard. Army with men. It is strict, but just Howell Edwards of Bwlchgwyn was informed by the The constable told them he was going to arrest them and therefore it is accused of tyranny. postmaster of Llandegla, Mr Hugh Jones that four men because they were escaped German prisoners. After The hard working business men who answering to the descriptions of the four escaped denying it, one remarked “It’s all right. We have made the are responsible for its conduct take Germans had passed through Llandegla village at about mistake of walking in the daytime.” care there shall be no holes in the fine half past three the same afternoon. Mr Jones had When near Mount Pleasant Bridge, the party were met mesh of the net they are dragging the endeavoured to find the Llandegla constable, but he not by the motor car containing DCC Tippett and the special town with. Each case is considered being at home, Mr Jones followed the men at a distance, constable and almost simultaneously another police motor according to its merits, the history of up to a place called Maes , about halfway between car arrived, the occupants of which were two policemen every man is fully and properly compiled and the consequent “bag” is Llandegla and Bwlchgwyn. At this point the fugitives left from Ruthin who had been on the track of the fugitives good. Everything is subordinated to the road and proceeded across the moors in the direction for over 24 hours. The prisoners were promptly taken to the needs of the nation. of Rhydtalog. Mr Jones was accompanied by his young Wrexham Police Station, where they arrived about 7.30 Wrexham has outgrown its old brother, Tom, and they arranged that the latter should on Saturday night. The 6ft 6in giant, named Koch, was boundaries to such an extent that watch the movements of the Germans whilst the other placed in one motor and the three others in the other car. many of its inhabitants live outside continued his way to Bwlchgwyn to obtain the assistance The prisoners said their intention was to make their way the borough. One side of one street is of PC Edwards whom he fortunately found at home. PC to Liverpool. In this they were helped by a pocket in the borough and the other beyond Edwards at once telephoned Wrexham Police Station and compass and a “home-made” folding map of North Wales. it. And so, by the shock of municipal afterwards succeeded in obtaining the assistance of about Upon arriving at the Police Station in Wrexham, they circumstances, you have the odd ten men from the village, including two soldiers of the 2nd were asked to rid themselves of their belongings and their numbers, whose businesses have RWF. captors were surprised by the fact that they were been depleted by the necessary In the meantime at Wrexham, Inspector Rees organised plentifully supplied with money and provisions. Amongst “tyranny” of the borough tribunal, envying the even numbers across the a strong party of special constables and proceeded to take their belongings were a large sum of money and treasury way, who are dallying in ease by the part in the search. Extending from Mold Road to notes, amounting in all to almost £10 and various grace of the district tribunal. The Bersham Road, they gradually worked their way to provisions including yards of German sausage. members of this august body are hills and effectually blocked the way of escape in The prisoners left for Frongoch camp by the 9.25 GWR familiarly known as “the six that direction. Arrangements had been made to keep in train on Monday morning. Their progress to the Station monthers” by reason of their touch with Wrexham by telephonic communication from was watched by a considerable crowd. There was no readiness to grant wholesale various residences and railway stations and after demonstration and they were removed to their exemptions over that period operations had been in progress a considerable time, news destination without the slightest hitch. practically for the asking for. was received that the prisoners had been caught. (Wrexham Advertiser, 22.04.1916) For three hours I sat with the “six monthers” yesterday. It was more like a pleasant assemblage of the Honour for Wrexham Soldier Royal and Antediluvian Order of Basham Wins Belt Outright Pte Frank Pickering of the RWF, a well-known Wrexham Buffaloes than a meeting of supreme man, has been awarded the Military medal for gallant and serious import. The members At the National Sporting Club on Monday, Sergt Johny conduct on the field of battle. lolled at half-moon spread of tables Basham RWF, of Wrexham, was called upon to defend his Pte Pickering has had a remarkable experience during smoking and taking their ease. One title against Beattie of Castlecary, Scotland. The event the present campaign. He went to France in August old gentleman in buckskin gaiters was one of great importance for Basham as a victory gave 1914, with the first expeditionary force. He fought at Mons, during the retreat towards Paris, in the battle of turned his back on his brethren and him the belt as his absolute property and a pension for sat haunched over the fire. the Marne, in Neuve Chapelle, Loos and in all the severe life after attaining the age of 50 of £1 per week. He had fighting on the Somme and up to the present has not Throughout the afternoon a previously won the championship on two occasions, his received a scratch. During the two years he has been on procession of sheepish young men, opponents being Johny Summers and McCormick. The active service, he has been home on leave twice. His brushed up and titivated for the men were boxing for side stakes and purse amounting in wife, who lives at Buckley, has quite a lot of German occasion and chaperoned by either all to £475. Basham had trained very quietly in Wrexham souvenirs brought her by her husband when on leave. their fathers, or their masters, filed Courtesy of Mr W.A.Williams (Wrexham Advertiser, 19.08.1916) on this occasion and was without the help of his usual in and out of the room and not a sparring partners, but he had indulged in any amount of single one was booked. They were hard work and his condition was splendid. He passed the mostly little men, but as tough as scale at 10st 5lbs whilst Beattie was 1¼1bs heavier. ratting terriers. Nearly everyone At the half way stage neither showed up much the produced Class A certificates. The very sight of them would have broken worse for wear. Both men carried through the 12th round the heart of the stoutest recruiting very strongly with the advantage, if any, to Basham. In sergeant. When this jovial family the 13th Beattie showed signs of tiring. In the 14th party broke up at six o’clock for tea, Basham gave him a terrible gruelling and it was they had not netted a single man for as much as Beattie could do to last the time out. the Army. But they had a merry The concluding rounds saw Basham boxing superbly. afternoon and seemed very pleased He had quite reversed the tables and was always first in with themselves. the attack, but Beattie hung on with great reserves. [Editor: May 25, 1916 - The era of Towards the end of the 18th round Beattie was given a the all-volunteer British Army ended terrible drubbing and time found him tottering to his as universal conscription takes effect corner in a beaten manner. He came up for the requiring all eligible British men penultimate round but was quickly floored, taking a count between the ages of 19 and 40 to of eight, after which the referee intervened, giving the report, excluding men working in contest to Basham, who still retains the championship agriculture, mining or the railroads.] and now possesses the welterweight belt as his absolute The Mayor, Councillor L. B. Rowland, addresses troops from the balcony of the Guildhall, (Wrexham Advertiser, 28.10.1916) property. (Wrexham Advertiser, 06.05.1916) Chester Street, Wrexham, 1916 (WM71/3/8)

10 PLEASE DO NOT REMOVE THIS NEWSPAPER FROM THE MUSEUM WREXHAM TELEGRAPH THE GREAT WAR – COMMEMORATIVE EDITION

Bigamy Charge in Wrexham Sad Story of Two Women MILITARY CROSS Soldier’s Tragic Death at Wrexham WHEN THE At Wrexham County Magistrates BATTLES ARE Court on Wednesday, Henry Rigg, Mr J Hopley Pierce conducted an inquest, on Thursday, to inquire into the stated to be a deserter from the Army FOR SOLDIER death of Pte Arthur Hyslop (48), Royal Welsh Fusiliers, who was based at the OVER was charged on remand by DCC Depot, Wrexham. Tippett that on December 23rd 1916 Mr Pierce said it appeared that Hyslop been in the habit of getting out of bed What be thy mood, oh Europe he feloniously did marry one Hettie and going through the window, returning the same way. On Friday last they When cannon thunder cease. Esther Morgan of 9 Springfield had been moved a storey higher. Deceased apparently forgot this and went to When clouds of war retire, Terrace , his former wife, get out of the window and fell. He was found on the ground below, and was Alice Rigg, Being then alive. removed to the Infirmary under the charge of Dr Moss until he died. Before the Sun of Peace Considerable public interest was Dr Moss saw deceased first on Saturday about nine o’clock in the morning taken in the case and the Court was at the infirmary. He was in a very collapsed state and had a fractured right What be thy fate and fortune, crowded. thigh. He complained a great deal of pain over the lower part of the abdomen. When stems the mighty flood. Mrs Alice Ann Rigg of Daub Hill He operated on him on Saturday night at about nine and found he had a Bolton identified the prisoner as her ruptured bladder and he was not fit for any further interference that night. What will thy sands resemble, husband and said she was married to He contracted peritonitis from which he died on Monday night. When ebbs the tide of blood. him at Bolton Registry Office on July Corporal Harry Newey R.W.F. gave evidence of identification and said that 25th 1908. She produced her he was awakened at 1.30 a.m. on Saturday morning on hearing cries and How many a stately castle, marriage certificate. He had been groans. He slept on the ground floor in the Company stores opposite the Ellis working at Parsonage Colliery, West block. He went outside and it was dark but he saw something lying on the Built on the sands of time. Leigh. There were three children of the marriage. About January 1915 ground. He went across to it and found it was a man. He did not recognise Will stand erect to harken. the prisoner enlisted in the Royal him until he got a light. He informed the Sergeant of the Guard. He asked The peace bells joyous chime. Field Artillery and she received a him how it happened and he replied, “I came from up there”. He also said,” I separation allowance of, she thought have had a drop of beer but know what I am doing”. He did not appear drunk. 23s per week. About six months Witness knew nothing about his habits, not knowing him personally, but that Will those rejoice and gladden afterwards she was informed he had he knew he was sleeping on the top floor. None of the other men in the room And wax on pleasure mad; deserted and her pay was stopped. knew anything about it. Or will the woes of nature Four or five months after that she Quartermaster Sergeant Roger Metcalf R.A.M.C said he took charge of his received a letter from him asking her case when it was brought to hospital. He seemed fairly comfortable except for For ages make thee sad? to meet him. She did so and in the the fractured thigh. He asked how it happened and then he became abusive same evening he re-enlisted in the 3/5 and would not give any information. He was undressed and put to bed. He Canst they forget the thousands, Loyal North Lancashire Regiment was seen by the Doctor and removed to the infirmary. He had had a little That will return no more. and again she received the separation drink and his breath smelt a little of it. The jury returned a verdict of allowance. This was stopped and her “Accidental Death”. (North Wales Guardian, 18.05.1917) Who lay on field of battle, “ring paper” was called in, the Like pebbles on the shore? military authorities at the same time informing that her husband had deserted. From that time until she How green today their laurels, now saw him in the court she had not But ah! The sacrifice. heard anything of him. Will Europe of the future Mrs Hettie Esther Morgan, 9 Springfield Terrace, Rhosddu, said Be worthy of such price? she was the widow of Pte Edward Morgan, Royal Welsh Fusiliers who When thirsty graves and billows, was killed at the battle of La Basse on January 25th 1915. There were two Are satisfied at last, children of the marriage. She said What be thy rock of marble, she made the acquaintance of the To mark the dismal past. prisoner, whom she knew by the name of James Robert Roberts about August of last year when he was From this infernal furnace, lodging at 8 Springfield Terrace. That smelts thy very soul. They walked out together a few times and she asked him on two occasions Wilt thou emerge the better, whether he was a married man and Wilt thou attain some goal? he said ,”no”. About November he asked her to marry him and the banns were put up in St James Will treaty when accomplished, Church, Rhosddu. Lay low the God of War, Samual Jones, collier said he knew Or fashion fatal arrows, the prisoner as Robert Roberts, but The RWF Barracks, Hightown, Wrexham, c.1914 (WREMA 90.28.259) had only known him since about the To slaughter millions more? middle of November last. Prisoner Courtesy of Mr W.A.Williams, Worthenbury, Flintshire asked him to be best man at the The news that another “coveted” decided to carry the wounded Pte. H. Idris Williams wedding and he attended church and distinction had been won by a Cefn Sergeant to the British lines for 23rd King’s Liverpool, signed the register. soldier has given immense medical attention. It was a risky and Police Sergeant Wm Williams said Registration office, Barracks, that in pursuance of military satisfaction to the people of the perilous job with shells dropping in Wrexham inquiries he arrested the prisoner as district. It was known for some time all directions and making dreadful (Wrexham Advertiser, 07.07.1917) a deserter from the Loyal Lancashire that a deed of considerable bravery havoc. He carried his comrade away Regiment. He knew the prisoner as had been performed by a Cefn Officer and sought temporary refuge in a Roberts. The man said he had a but not until this week did it become shell hole. After a short rest he again ICE CREAM AFTER HOURS definitely known that the officer shouldered his burden but before discharge certificate from the Royal Angelo Valentino, 40 Mount street Welsh Fusiliers but failed to produce referred to was Lieut H. Pritchard, getting clear of the shell hole another it. Witness said “Your name is the son of Mr and Mrs W.H. Pritchard shell dropped close by and lifted the was summarily summoned by Sergt. Private Harry Rigg” but he denied it. of King St. Cefn. gallant officer into the air many Jones and pleaded guilty. Sergeant In consequence of something that had He had not been long at the front, yards high. Jones said that at 9.25pm on the come to his knowledge he returned to but in the great attack on Ancre, Miraculously both escaped further previous Wednesday he was on duty the house and Mrs Morgan showed about the middle of November Lieut. injury and after a long and anxious in Mount street and saw several him the marriage certificate. Witness Pritchard was in command of a journey reached a place of safety. The young people entering and leaving then charged the prisoner with the platoon of Royal Welsh Fusiliers and Sergeant’s wounds were dressed and bigamous marriage of Mrs Hettie his courage and resourcefulness his recovery is assured. For this the defendant’s shop. He went inside Morgan, but he made no reply. under very trying times evoked the conspicuous deed of gallantry Lt. and saw the defendant in the act of However a statement made by the highest praise from the military Pritchard has been awarded the serving two with two penny worth of prisoner was read out by the authorities. Military Cross and promoted to ice cream with wafer and the other magistrate and was signed “H Rigg” For nearly eight hours he and his Captain. with one penny worth. They left the Prisoner was then charged and was (Wrexham Advertiser, 13.01.1917) committed to the next Assizes. On men stubbornly held a fourth line The officers’ barracks, RWF Depot, Hightown, Wrexham, c.1914 (WREMA 90.28.501) shop and consumed the wafers his application, bail was allowed in German trench against fearful odds, ------outside. and during this encounter a Sergeant £100 and two sureties of £50. SAD BANGOR-ON-DEE gun was between his legs, butt Defendant said he considered he (North Wales Guardian, 07.09.1917) was badly wounded. Lt. Prichard downwards. There was a hole had the right to sell ice cream at any ------TRAGEDY WREXHAM SOLDIER ON A SINKING Officer found shot dead, underneath his chin, the front part of time as it was perishable and would SHIP RE-ASSURING NEWS Proposed New Infirmary for Wrexham: his face was completely blown away be bad the following day. The shop Verdict of Suicide and the shot appeared to have gone should have been closed at 8 o’clock. News was recently received in through the top part of his head. Fined 10s. Wrexham to the effect that Fitting Memorial for R.W.F. Heroes The sad shooting tragedy which The Coroner in summing up to the Regimental Quartermaster Sergeant occurred at Bangor-on-Dee on jury said, “There is no evidence as to (North Wales Guardian, 03.08.1917) ------Tom Rogers of Wrexham was on the We are glad to know that matters generosity forms a very valuable Thursday last week was subject of an the condition of his mind which would transport Ivernia which was sunk in inquest held in the Royal Oak Hotel suggest in any way morbid or CULTIVATION OF LAND the Mediterranean on the first day of relating to the proposed new nucleus to the movement and cannot Infirmary for Wrexham and District fail to enthuse the many others on Saturday afternoon. The depressed, on the other hand they BY SCHOOL CHILDREN this year. deceased, an officer to the Black had the story of him being wounded, Re-assuring news has however and referred to by the President at interested in the sick and suffering. At a meeting of the County Schools the Infirmary meeting about three It is not intended to undertake Watch had seen service in France and from which over a period of six days come to hand that Mr Rogers was he was practically blind and was managers on March 12th the Clerk amongst the rescued, a fact which no weeks ago, are taking practical building operations until the war is although a complete stranger to the extremely anxious about being reported that he had arranged for the doubt will cause great relief and over as for the present it is not an neighbourhood, his death under shape. The belief is growing both in deprived of his sight. Also there was ploughing of the girl’s playing field, pleasure to a large circle of his old the Borough and the surrounding opportune moment for appeals which tragic circumstances caused a acquaintances. Mr Rogers was sensation. the complaint in the stomach from for the purposes of growing food, at districts that such a building would would necessitate a further strain on which he was suffering. The Alexandra County School and that returning to Egypt on the ill fated form a worthy Memorial to the the public. The deceased calling himself, Lieut Ivernia after home leave and has now D.McKinlay*, arrived at the Royal experience from which he had gone the Food Control Committee had set Heroes of the War. The scheme It has been agreed the new arrived safely in Egypt and writing to Hotel about 8 o’clock Monday through might have created a lack of apart two allotments at the junction provides for a totally new Hospital on infirmary will be known as the equilibrium, and they should be in a a friend states that he has no ill evening, January 1st. He said to the of Victoria road and Ruthin road west effects from his immersion in the an improved site, with new Wrexham and East Denbighshire position more to sympathise with him proprietor “Look here. I called at the for the cultivation by the boys Mediterranean. equipment, and having War Memorial Hospital. Buck Hotel and asked whether they than to blame him.” attending the Victoria County School. (Wrexham Advertiser, 17.02 1917) accommodation for not fewer than (Wrexham Advertiser, 24.03. 1917) could accommodate me for the night, The jury, after about 15 minutes ------100 patients. and the landlord told me it was deliberation, returned a verdict of A letter had been received from the RUABON NAVAL OFFICER’S There is no need to refer to the able inconvenient. Do you think you could “Suicide during temporary insanity” head teacher of the boys department DARING DEEDS work which has been carried on at put me up for the night? He also and expressed deep regret that one of Alexandra School stating who had served his country should Naval Flight Commander Howard the present institution for the best went on to say that he had to be quite arrangements had been made for the Saint (son of Mr T.R.W.Saint, mining part of a century but has for several candid as his car had broken down have come to such an unfortunate gardening instructor at the school to engineer, Ruabon) has been decorated years past the accommodation has about four miles from Whitchurch and untimely end. (North Wales Guardian, 12.01.1917 give instruction at the Church School with the Distinguished Service Cross. been found to be altogether and he had given all his money to the on Monday, Wednesday and The citation in the London Gazette chauffeur for the repairs and he did & Wrexham Advertiser, 13.01.1917) inadequate to meet the needs of the Thursday mornings. for November 2nd 1917 is as follows: large and increasing number of cases not have a halfpenny piece on him.” *The surname has been changed to ensure anonymity. (North Wales Guardian, 30.03.1917) “For conspicuous bravery in attacking seeking admission. As a result many On Thursday morning the superior hostile formation of aircraft. patients who might otherwise have proprietor’s brother in law and ------On 21st September 1917 he with NEW POTATOES SERVED been treated in the Wrexham McKinlay, who had shared a room in three other machines attacked five Wrexham Infirmary, Regent Street, c.1914 the hotel were in the kitchen when IN RESTAURANTS hostile scouts. After getting to close Infirmary, have through force of circumstances been obliged to enter through the kitchen window the quarters with one of them he fired deceased said he saw a rat outside. As it appears that in certain hotels other institutions. The proposed new three bursts from his machine gun They got a gun and cartridge and and other establishments, subject to and drove it down completely out of scheme is meeting with considerable searched for the rat without success, the Public Meals Order, new potatoes control. amount of favour, and it is safe to they ate breakfast and afterwards have been served on more than one On 23rd September 1917, while predict that, when the official appeal went in search of the rat. The day a week, the Ministry of Food leading a patrol of eight scouts he is made for funds, it will liberally deceased held the gun and decided to point out that by the terms of the attacked a hostile formation of ten responded to by all sections of the machines. One of them he drove search in the stables at this point his order: “no potatoes or any food of . companion went for a smoke but on vertically out of control – one of them which potatoes form part shall be We understand that a gentleman, returning to the stables he found in flames and has also shown great served or eaten on any day except courage in attacking enemy troops who for the time being does not wish McKinlay lying on the ground. The and aerodromes with machine gun his name to be disclosed, has deceased was found lying in the first Friday”. This applies equally to all fire from very low altitude.” promised the very handsome sum of Wrexham & East Denbighshire War Memorial stall in the stable with his right The bridge at Bangor-on-Dee, Flintshire kinds of potatoes. (Wrexham Advertiser, 10.11.1917) £2,000 towards the fund. His Hospital, Rhosddu Road, officially opened 1926 shoulder against the partition. The (©Wrexham Archives) (Wrexham Advertiser, 23.06. 1917)

PLEASE DO NOT REMOVE THIS NEWSPAPER FROM THE MUSEUM 11 WREXHAM TELEGRAPH THE GREAT WAR – COMMEMORATIVE EDITION RHOS MINERS AND THE FOOD SHORTAGE A PUBLIC MEETING The general shortage in food stuffs which been exceedingly acute in the Rhos district during the last two weeks gave rise to a considerable amount of dissatisfaction. Many of the chief articles of food were not procurable and butter and margarine presented a particularly sore point. Hundreds of colliers had perforce to submit to dry bread for their usual meal down the pit. The dissatisfaction eventually developed to such an extent that threats to “down tools” began to be apparent. The question was discussed at a crowded meeting at the Pavilion on Monday evening presided over by the convenor Mr J.T.Edwards. A conspicuous feature of the meeting was the large attendance of women as well as the workmen themselves. The chairman in explaining the object of the meeting remarked that it was impossible for colliers doing hard manual work to subsist on dry bread. They were greatly dissatisfied at the inequality and the speaker spoke of one family receiving several pounds of butter, while a working family of six in the next house had to live on half a pound for eight days. The workers were called upon to face the difficulty calmly and to see that as far as possible there was uniformity in sacrifice. The following resolution was passed unanimously. “That this mass meeting of the residents of Rhos and district protest indignantly against the shameless profiteering which has been permitted in many directions since the outbreak of war, and especially The RWF marching along Regent Street, Wrexham © Wrexham Archives regarding the people’s food supplies. In view of the increasing shortage of THE “BLACK CHAIR” BROUGHT HOME THE ACTON PARK ESTATE many commodities and their high A sad but beautiful spectacle was At a special meeting of the Wrexham prices, which places them beyond the witnessed on Thursday evening week Town Council on Tuesday night the reach of the poor and the grave at Trawsfynydd when the bardic following resolutions of the Council in danger of an approaching world chair won by soldier poet Pte. Ellis committee were adopted. “That the famine. This meeting declares that Evans, at the Birkenhead Eisteddfod Town Clerk be directed to forthwith the Government in its handling of the was brought home. Evans, a apply to the Local Government Board food problem should have regard only shepherd, who was known in bardic for sanction to borrow the sum of to the public welfare; should establish circles as Heddwyn, was killed in £20,500 for the purchase of Acton the distribution of available supplies France. Large crowds assembled at Park and a field on the southerly side on a family basis of share and share the railway station and formed into a of Rhosnessney Lane at its junction alike; should eliminate the taint of procession headed by several eminent with Chester Road for the erection profiteering completely, and insist on bards. The company proceeded to the thereon of houses for the working an equality of sacrifice between all village hall where a memorial classes and the provision of classes. To achieve this object we are meeting was held by the Rev J allotments.” of opinion that the only sound Richards, Dyffnant presiding. That when the application is sent economical method is for the State to Several eminent bards delivered to the Local Government Board, the purchase and control all the essential addresses. Board be asked to receive a raw materials and food stuffs. We (Wrexham Advertiser, 22.09.1917) deputation consisting of the special also request that better transport ------sub-committee as to Acton Park, the facilities should be made in the case THE DISPOSAL OF ACTON PARK Town Clerk, Councillor Major Roberts of perishable goods and consider the and Mr Ormsby Gore MP join the period of 14 days is far too long for Diamond cutting, small holding deputation. goods to be conveyed from and Housing Scheme The purchase will include the Hall, Southampton to this district.” gardens and grounds and the land (Wrexham Advertiser, 15.12.1917) We are able to make known highly bounded by Chester Rd., important developments with regards Rhosnessney Lane, Road, to the use of Acton Park, which was Jeffries Road and Box Lane. recently purchased provisionally by (Wrexham Advertiser, 22.09.1917) Wrexham Corporation for £20,000. A ------few weeks ago Mr John Hodge MP GROVE PARK BOYS SCHOOL Minister for Pensions and Mr Oppenhiemer of diamond fame, Unveiling Ceremony visited Acton Park in connection with On Saturday a memorial to the late the diamond cutting project and the Second Lieut. J.A.Jones was unveiled subsequent negotiations and in the Central Hall of the school. The Chester Road and Acton Hill, Wrexham, c.1900 (WREMA 90.28.543) arrangements entered into make it memorial took the form of an practically certain that the enlarged photograph of the late Mr INTERESTING GIFTS establishment of this highly Jones. It was the work of Mr T. Wills interesting and important industry in Jones of and is an excellent As many readers are aware Mr our midst will soon become a fait portrait. Arthur Acton has devoted much time accompli. The ceremony took place at the in excavating the site of a Roman The position at present is that Sir close of morning school. Mr Dodd settlement at Holt, where some Neville Cunliffe Bart., and his MA, Headmaster, briefly announced trustees will be asked to permit Mr the purpose of the meeting and as the interesting pottery has been Oppenheimer to “step in the shoes of memorial was subscribed to by the discovered. Mr Acton has just the Corporation as regards the boys entirely he decided to let the presented to the Free Library a large purchase of the whole park and nine boys conduct the ceremony. number of specimens, and they are acre field outside the corner of Mr Jones had been geography being preserved for the Museum Rhosnessney Lane and Chester Road, master at the school from 1907 – 1916 which Wrexham will one day possess. subject to Mr Oppenhiemer reselling and gave his best in all the duties © Denbighshire Archives, DD/G/3924 to the Corporation land for housing which fell his lot. He made the Among the pottery are samples which purposes viz. a belt of some 60 acres supreme sacrifice on September 20th bear the mark of the XX Legion which Miners Wages and the Price of running along the whole length of the 1917. lay at Chester during a period of the south of the estate to the full length of The inscription read:-“2nd Lieut. Roman occupation. It is interesting Sir.- I have been told of late by several Rhosnessney Lane. Mr Oppenhiemer prominent people that it is the miners J.A.Jones, 9th Welsh Regiment killed also to note that contributions to the intends to utilise 20 to 25 acres of in action Sept. 20 1917. Geography who are to blame chiefly for present land for an experimental school for Wrexham War Museum are growing; position regarding the high cost of Master Grove Park School 1907-17.” diamond cutting, polishing &c. The (Wrexham Advertiser, 24.11.1917) among them are photographs of the living owing to their organisations remainder of the land some 129 acres claiming advances in wages. May I ------brave boys of the town who have laid is to be used for the benefit of POTATO “SCRAMBLE” IN WREXHAM down their lives. through your courtesy put the miners’ disabled soldiers being used as an true position before the public. agricultural training centre and let as It may not be generally known that (Wrexham Advertiser, 22.12.1917) The Miners Federation said that if smallholdings or other purpose the the Food Controller, on the ------the Government were prepared to Ministry of Pensions may decide. interpretation placed by his Gresford Miners Demand for limit prices and keep them on the The arrangement with Mr department on the Potatoes (1916) Increased Wages same scale as before the war, they Main Crop (printed order No2 1917), Oppenheimer was completed at an At a general meeting of the miners at were prepared to work for no increase interview at the Headquarters of the has announced that a person by the in wages. The Government as usual Ministry of Pensions on Monday last way of retail sales is required, Gresford Colliery the following did nothing. and will go ahead in due course. although he is the grower, to charge motions were passed. The coal owners alleged their costs (Wrexham Advertiser, 10.11.1917) the maximum price of 1 3/4d per lb. 1 That unless the 25% increase in had risen fifty per cent between ------Acting apparently on this order a wages applied for by the Miner’s December 1914 and February 1915, MINERS WAGES large farm wagon consisting of an Federation is immediately granted but there were no increase in wages. CONTROLLER CONCEDES AN exceptionally large number of The fifty percent increase was bogus potatoes weighed up in small we hereby empower the General and merely an excuse to raise prices. EXTRA 1s.6d A DAY quantities stayed on the Guildhall Secretary to tender 14 days notice on The Board of Trade inquiry reported The Miner’s Federation of Great Square on Thursday morning and the our behalf to terminate contracts. whereas the total increase in the cost Britain held another meeting in man in charge(who is bailiff to Mrs 2 That our secretary be instructed of production and distribution was at London on Thursday to consider the Bellis Hafod y Wern) immediately to write to the Prime Minister and most 3s per ton. The owners and negotiations with the Coal Controller began to sell them to all comers. The Food Controller asking them to take distributors had raised prices from 7s regarding the demand for an increase news spread like wild fire through to 11s per ton. in wages of 25 per cent. the town and in an incredibly short the necessary steps to prevent I hope however that I have proved At the first sitting the terms offered space of time the cart was besieged by profiteering as it is impossible to sufficiently that it is not the miners by the Controller were rejected and a crowd of people, mostly women procure adequate necessities of like who desire to make the nation’s hour the decision communicated to the anxious to get a supply of the at the greatest prices and wages. of distress and extremity their beer of Controller. Another offer was made precious tuber. With the assistance of 3 That we are against the present great opportunity. Yours &c. and it was decided to accept the the police that distribution was made constitution of the local food EDWARD WILLIAMS amended offer of an increase of 1s.6d in an equal a manner as possible and West Grove, Rhostyllen. per day for all workers over 18 years the action of the farmer was greatly committee as there is inadequate November 3rd 1917 of age and 9d per day for those under appreciated. labour representation on same. (Wrexham Advertiser, 10.11.1917) that age. (Wrexham Advertiser, 29.09.1917) (Wrexham Advertiser 07.04. 1917) (Wrexham Advertiser 08.09.1917)

12 PLEASE DO NOT REMOVE THIS NEWSPAPER FROM THE MUSEUM WREXHAM TELEGRAPH THE GREAT WAR – COMMEMORATIVE EDITION

HOW WREXHAM SENT THEIR COMPLIMENTS TO THE GERMANS GWERSYLLT – ONLY SON KILLED On Saturday, Mrs Thomas, of We have received a letter from the front signed “A Wrexham boy Canadian PEACE MEETING AT WREXHAM Golf Lodge, received the sad news Field Artillery France” in which he says, “I have received a parcel from the Wrexham Patriotic Fund, and just at present I am in doubt as to who to thank that her only son, Pte John Thomas for this consideration so if you would kindly inform the committee and BROKEN UP BY SOLDIERS had fallen in action in France, on subscribers that on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day I sent over a few shells August 13th. Pte Thomas who was to Fritz with the compliments of the Wrexham Patriotic Fund. I am sure they 21 years of age, was well known to would be tickled to death to know that their compliments were being received.” Mayor’s Vigorous Reply golfers in the district, having for (Wrexham Advertiser, 12.01.1918) several years been engaged on the Golf Links. He joined the colours two Lively scenes were witnessed at a burning and destroying.” appreciate this meeting are years ago, and had served about 20 meeting held at the Pavilion, “Are you a German?” interposed a pro-Germans like yourself. Go and months on the battlefield. He was Maesgwyn Road, Wrexham on burly sergeant. ask the lads in khaki if they want a wounded about three months ago, but Friday night, under the auspices of “No I am an Englishwoman,” was the German peace.” (cheers). was soon in the trenches again. How the Women’s Peace Movement. rejoinder, “whose son is at the Mrs Glazier: “I am doing my utmost Pte Thomas met his death is told in a The chair was occupied by Miss moment a sailor in danger.” to get --- letter from a comrade who was near Calvin Thomas of Wrexham, who “What about the Glenart Castle “To get Germany to lick us that’s him at the time. He writes “Whilst said that the actual causes of this war Hospital Ship which has just gone what you are doing. Look here we were proceeding down from the were only the inevitable result of down?” madam, I am one of seven brothers front line after conveying rations to selfishness, which was an inbred “A dastardly outrage, I agree,” who went up on mobilization and so the men, the Hun opened a very tendency of human nature, and so conceded the lecturer. long as there is a bit of khaki left we heavy bombardment. Presently, a long as the individual was selfish the “Then don’t bring Germany in as a are going to fight for an honourable nation must be correspondingly Christian country, and don’t compare peace, a peace that will make it shell of heavy calibre burst about 10 selfish, and they must surely fall. it with England.” (Applause). impossible for our children to have to yards away from us, and a piece of This war might be ended to-day, but Mrs Glazier said her great desire go through what we are going shrapnel embedded itself in your so long as nations went on striking was that these terrible differences through. I am a Welshman, and to son’s forehead. I was on the opposite for Number 1 Europe must bleed to should not be settled by brute force, think that here in Wales I should be side of the road and walking about death. They were looking for the but by an appeal to the consciences of listening to a woman talking like this two yards in front. I saw him fall, power to crucify selfish aims and the world to secure peace by to us br-r-r-r-r.” (Laughter and and he just succeeded in saying “Send motives and that power was love – negotiation. uproar) my things home lad, and tell them deep and infinite. A veteran soldier stepped forward A heated argument ensued how it happened.” This was all he Munitions workers and mortar bombs, Wrexham, 1918 © Denbighshire Archives, DD/W/870 Up to this point the audience had saying “but you surely have not read between the members of the audience was able to say. He was leaning on listened attentively, and without a your papers lately. Germany settled and the soldiers. my shoulder, and with a sigh he fell single interruption, but immediately peace with Russia, and yet Germany The Mayor stepped forward and back to rise in a better land. The NATIONAL UNION OF WOMEN WORKERS Mrs Bruce Glazier, the well known are advancing. You cannot negotiate said “I sympathise with my friends at incident was over in two minutes, and Socialist, rose to speak it was evident with liars.” the back many of whom have done about half an hour later his body was she was not destined for an easy A BRANCH FORMED IN WREXHAM “The one hope for the whole of glorious deeds in our darkest hours, conveyed by stretcher bearers to the passage. “It seems incredible” said Europe,” said the speaker, “is that the and I admire them as much as British burial ground behind the A meeting attended by a large number interested in women’s work, from the speaker, “that two nations who men in Germany who detest the anyone on earth but an amendment religious and political societies in the Wrexham Borough and surrounding were foremost in the work of Kaiser ---” will be moved by myself on behalf of lines, where he now lies with a district, was held at the Guildhall Wrexham on Thursday afternoon. Christian Missions – Britain and “Stop,” interrupted a Tommy, “I don’t the Mayoress, and I appeal to the wooden cross bearing his name over The object of the gathering was to consider the proposed formation of a Germany – should be seeking to think you detest the Kaiser or you generosity of my friends to wait until the grave.” branch in Wrexham and district of the National Union of Women Workers of discover which was the more would not be holding this meeting to then and gauge between us.” (Wrexham Advertiser, 31.08.1918) Great Britain and Ireland. powerful in the world of killing, have peace with him. The people who (Wrexham Advertiser, 09.02.1918) ------Amongst the objects of the Union were the promotion of the social, civil, moral THE FAIR and religious welfare of the community; to promote sympathy of thought and This week the Old March or Pleasure purpose among women; to focus and distribute information; and to affiliate Fair is being held in the Beast organisations whose work is in harmony with its objects. Each branch would Market. The chief attractions are consist of members and societies working locally, to promote such objects in their respective district. Rather than forming a new society, the objects would swings, round-abouts, shooting be more effectively attained by the utilisation and co-ordination of existing galleries, palmists, and hoop-las. And women’s societies whose advice in re-construction work after the war would be there is a wild beast show. It is invaluable. remarkable to note the large number The resolution to form a Branch of the Union in Wrexham and District was of palmists who have little tents, and passed unanimously, it being decided that the annual subscription of members to observe the very large number of should be 1s. people who consult them. Most of the The Mayoress undertook the presidency of the Branch; Mrs Ogwen Jones (North and South Wales Bank) was appointed secretary; and Miss Howell clients are women, and there is little Davies, Wrexham, treasurer. (Wrexham Advertiser, 16.02.1918) doubt that the burden of their anxiety to know what the future holds, is that they have some dear one in France or on some other battle front. Wrexham, like other places, shows an anxiety to raise the curtain which obscures the coming months. (Wrexham Advertiser, 20.04.1918) JAM------AND SYRUP It is practically decided that jam will be rationed in the autumn. Jam, golden syrup, honey and all similar substances which are spread on bread will be rationed as one article. The Food Controller will shortly announce new meat prices which, it is understood, will be about 2d per lb. more for all joints. (Wrexham Advertiser, 24.08.1918)

THE BADGE OF HONOUR The following is taken from the “Star” Edward Archibald, 14RWF, Killed in action 07.03.1918, aged 21, Grove Park County School for Boys Roll of Honour © Denbighshire Archives, ED/GS/11/84 'Munitionettes', Wrexham, 1918 (WREMA 91.34.13) JOHNSTOWN - A FINE LETTER I know a man of industry, RHOS FAMILY’S SACRIFICE EIGHT SOLDIER SONS Who made big bombs for the R.F.C. Mrs Prince, Ruabon Road, And pocketed lots of £.s.d.- There are probably very few families in the country who have attained the Johnstown, widow of Farrier E. And he (thank God!) is an O.B.E. military record of Mr and Mrs George Roberts of Ponkey, all of whose sons Prince, who was killed on active volunteered to serve their country. Three of them were out in France as early service recently, has received the as November 1914, whilst a fourth joined the colours in December 1914, not following letter from his officer, Lieut I know a woman of pedigree, long afterwards three others enlisted, whilst the youngest joined up a few W Freeman Richardson A.S.C.: Who asked some soldiers out to tea, months ago. Two have paid the supreme sacrifice – Pte Jack Roberts and Pte “Dear Madam, I am writing on And said, “Dear me!” and “Yes I see”- Wm. Roberts. Another, Pte Albert Roberts, after three and a half years in behalf of the Officer Commanding And she (thank God!) is an O.B.E. France, has been missing since April 13th and his parents are still anxiously No. 6 Reserve Park, to tell you how Soldiers marching along Regent Street to Wrexham awaiting news of his whereabouts. Pte Peter Roberts is lying gassed and distressed we all are at your General (G.W.R) railway station (© Wrexham Archives) wounded at a base hospital; whilst two others, Ernest and George, are also husband’s death, which occurred, as I knew a fellow of twenty-three, gassed. Pte Alfred Roberts, of the Welsh Regiment, arrived home from the no doubt the War Office has informed FETE IN THE PARK Who got a job with a fat M.P., Not caring much for the infantree – King George’s Hospital, London, having been badly wounded in the head. The you, on the night of the 16/17. On Monday (Bank Holiday), a fete in youngest, who enlisted a few weeks ago, is stationed in Ireland. Everybody liked him immensely, And he (thank God!) is an O.B.E. A sad feature of the case is that the father is seriously ill and whilst the because of his kind and generous aid of the Comforts Fund was held in troubled mother has borne her many afflictions with great courage, it is one nature. All ranks admired and the park. The weather in the early I had a friend, a friend , and he of those cases which proves that the greatest sacrifice receives the smallest respected him for his sterling part of the day was brilliantly fine, Just held the line for you and me, recognition. Whilst the Government have lately been scattering honours of qualities, and for his conscientious but in the evening a very heavy And kept the Germans from the sea, various grades with an unprecedented lavishness all this brave and sacrificing devotion to his duties. It may be shower of rain fell which disturbed woman receives from a grateful country is an allowance of 7s 9d in respect of some little consolation to you in your And died – without the O.B.E. the arrangements, but on the whole each of two of her sons which is supplemented by the princely weekly sum of terrible loss to know that all his Thank God! 10s from the National Insurance – all this to sustain herself and to restore comrades (Officers, N.C.O.’s and the fete was a success and no doubt a He died without the O.B.E. the fast ebbing health of her husband. Had the sons remained in their ranks) mourn his loss, and to be considerable sum has been raised for - A LT A I R protected employment at the collieries, the wages now prevailing would have assured that he suffered no pain, but the excellent cause. Since February Lieut. R.C.Evans, killed in action 24.08.1918, Grove enabled the family to live in a high standard of comfort. remained unconscious to the end. It 1916, 33,364 articles have been sent Park County School for Boys Roll of Honour © (Wrexham Advertiser, 22.06.1918) (Wrexham Advertiser, 29.06.1918) was my sad privilege to follow, with a to our soldiers. Last week 1,000 pairs Denbighshire Archives, ED/GS/11/84 party of his comrades, your husband’s body to the graveside and to pay, in of socks were sent to six different the cemetery of an Old-World French battalions, and this week ten town – set among green fields and battalions will receive 30,000 meadows, quite unspoiled by war – cigarettes. The things sent are socks, homage to our dear dead friend. A towels, gloves, mits, handkerchiefs, Church of England chaplain mufflers, thirst-quenchers, candles performed the sad rites and his body enclosed in a coffin, was borne to the and the ever welcome cigarettes. grave, covered with the flag of the (Wrexham Advertiser, 25.05.1918) land he served loyally and well. You must not picture him to yourself as Poisoned Sweets Story lying among strangers in a foreign The Home Secretary replying to land, but rather – as is really true – questions said sweets picked up after among many other gallant Englishmen who will keep watch an air raid had been examined and no with him till the Resurrection traces of poison had been discovered. Morning. His personal effects will be Some sweets picked up at Southend forwarded to you, and you will notice had been found to contain traces of that some of them (including his arsenic, which probably arose from pay-book) bear marks of the missile impurities in the materials used. that deprived you of such a good husband, and us, who are left, of so These sweets were certainly not gallant and faithful a friend.” dropped from air-craft. (Wrexham Advertiser, 20.07.1918) (Wrexham Advertiser, 02.03.1918)

PLEASE DO NOT REMOVE THIS NEWSPAPER FROM THE MUSEUM 13 WREXHAM TELEGRAPH THE GREAT WAR – COMMEMORATIVE EDITION

MISS ELLEN TERRY AT WREXHAM PERFORMANCE IN THE AID OF RWF PRISONERS On Wednesday last at a special matinee held in Wrexham in aid of the Royal Welsh Fusiliers Prisoner of War Fund Wrexham people were privileged to hear recitals by the most distinguished actress of the age, Miss Ellen Terry. Miss Terry has for some time past been the guest of Mrs Bertram Brooke in the Ceiriog Valley – a lady who is unstintingly devoting her time and purse to the promotion of theatrical entertainments for the purpose of assisting deserving war charities. It was announced that Miss Ellen Terry was suffering from bronchitis, following a severe cold, and was present against the advice of her doctor. Miss Terry’s kindly act in fulfilling her promise under these trying circumstances was fully appreciated by the audience, and her appearance on the stage was the signal for an outburst of applause. The great actress gave Portia’s address in Act IV Scene 1 of the “Merchant of Venice”, “The quality of mercy is not strained.” and a recital from Scene III, Act IV of Romeo and Juliet. At the conclusion of the recitals Miss Patricia Crawshay, the little daughter of Major Crawshay D.S.O., presented a beautiful bouquet to Miss First World War tank, presented to the Borough of Wrexham War Bond Committee, Parciau (WREMA 93.38.12) Terry, who acknowledged the gift in her most charming manner. WREXHAM MASTER KILLED (Wrexham Advertiser, 28.09.1918) We regret to state that news has been Really Good Women Workers ------received that another assistant THE OBSERVER ABROAD master of the County School for Boys, At intervals we are gradually discharging between 500-600 women who have I have received a letter from a lady Grove Park, Wrexham, has been been employed on Munition Contracts. stating that whilst herself and a few killed in action – Lt. T. Roberts, M.A. Without exception they are all splendid workers and if you need a Cook, Shop Assistant, Maid, Nurse, Farm Help, Lady Clerk, Typist, Laundress, companions were picking (Wales). The sad event took place on Printer’s Assistant, Teacher, Milliner, Dress-maker, Tailoress, Lady’s blackberries in this district “for the the 11th inst. Lieut. Roberts was Companion, Governess or Waitress --- then you should write or call at the Government and our soldiers,” the educated at the University College, Labour Exchange at once. If very urgent, then write us direct, and we will do farmer on whose land the bushes , and for eight years he our best to help you. Powell Brothers Ltd., WREXHAM were situated peremptorily (Wrexham Advertiser, 21.12.1918) was at Grove Park School as Welsh demanded their business. They replied “We are picking blackberries and Form master. He enlisted to make jam for our poor soldiers.” voluntarily in February 1916, and in The farmer remarked “I don’t care a 1917 he was commissioned to the --- for the soldiers,” and took them Yorkshire and Lancashire Regiment. from them. “ I think it a great He had over a year’s service in France shame,” says the writer “that at a and was wounded in October 1917. time when the country is in need of For some months he was acting every ounce of fruit it should be Captain. Lt. Roberts was the founder allowed to rot rather than give us a and secretary of the Wrexham Welsh chance of picking them. This man is Society. He was a noted Welsh of military age, and his place ought to scholar and was a successful be in France.” (Wrexham Advertiser, 21.09.1918) competitor at the Eisteddfod with Munitions workers, Powells Cambrian Works, Wrexham, 1915–18 (381/1) ------metrical translations from Horace. His death will be greatly regretted HOSTEL FOR DISABLED SOLDIERS SERIOUS especially by the old boys of Grove Our readers’ attention is called to an Park School, by whom he was greatly earnest appeal for funds to provide a esteemed. Deep sympathy is felt with STABBING Hostel for Disabled Soldiers or his wife and mother. Sailors, who come into the district to AFFRAY AT (Wrexham Advertiser, 19.10.1918) take advantage of the splendid INFLUENZA------IN WREXHAM training facilities now available at RHOSTYLLEN Acton Hall Gardens. On Saturday The influenza epidemic which has last, Mr Bernard Oppenheimer SIX MEN INJURED, been raging in our midst for the past generously presented the Gardens at few weeks shows little sign of Acton to the Management Committee RUSSIAN SAILORS abatement, and the local Authority of the Training Colony and 40 men has agreed, on the recommendation are now undergoing their 12 months’ ARRESTED of the Medical Officer, to close schools course of training in market gardening, under fully qualified for a further period of seven days. At Wrexham County Police, on instructors. We are sure it is The death toll is a heavy one, and Monday, before W. B. Phillips Esq., unnecessary for us to do more than amongst those who have succumbed Paul Goldberg (28), Elmas Ilvice (29), simply call attention to this appeal to to the dread disease is Mr Settle, © Denbighshire Archives, DD/G/3959 and Wasil Korochki (24), stated to be the public, to provide the necessary licensee of the Royal Oak. Many funds for equipping the Hostel, so torpedoed Russian seamen, now Commemorative china tankards and cups, now prominent townsmen have contracted that it can be opened in a week or available for purchase at Rogers & Jacksons, Wrexham engaged in timber work in the parish the malady and some of them are in a two. (Wrexham Advertiser, 04.05.1918) (WREMA 87.141.3 & 87.56.5) of Bersham, were brought up in sad condition. custody charged with having caused (Wrexham Advertiser, 02.11.1918) grievous bodily harm to Benjamin THE------ARMISTICE PEACE REJOICINGS IN WREXHAM Lloyd, Rees Lloyd, Rd. Ed. Griffiths The joyful news of peace was received Naturally the occasion was not and Chas. Morgan all of Rhostyllen. On Monday morning the welcome considerably earlier than anticipated allowed to pass unnoticed in the D.C.C. Tippett said that it was one news came through that Germany and the people were somewhat schools of the town. The Union Jack of the most difficult cases the police had accepted the terms of the Allies in respect of the armistice. So after unprepared for it. The persistent was hoisted and saluted by the had yet had to deal with. A number of more than four years of terrible buzzing of a hooter at a local works at children who sang the National Russians came to Wrexham on struggle the arch-enemy of mankind about 10.30 am was the harbinger of Anthem and gave vent to their Saturday night and at least five of has been brought to heel. In order to the good tidings and a few minutes feelings by repeated rounds of them were found to be a bit rowdy in escape the righteous vengeance of later small knots of people were seen cheering. Hope Street, some difference having most of his own subjects for his in the streets in their eagerness to At 7 p.m. a service of thanksgiving apparently arisen between them and failure to bring about what he obtain information. This was quickly was held at the Parish Church. The local people. They were moved on by confidently told them to believe was forthcoming and by noon the town sacred edifice was filled to the Police and put on an electric well within his grasp, the humiliated was crowded with delighted citizens, overflowing with large numbers tram-car for Rhostyllen. Apparently and crest-fallen War Lord has fled whilst almost every building in the being unable to find seats. everything went well until Rhostyllen and sought sanctuary in a neutral town, including the smallest On Wednesday a general holiday in dwelling, was decorated with every honour of the event and business was was reached, when it seemed they State. Boasting of pride, power and available article of festoonery. By suspended for the day. Thousands of came in conflict with some of the invincibility, he, when the time came, had not the courage to face the music common consent tools were “downed” people congregated in the streets and residents. The result was serious but elected carefully to continue to in all workshops of the Borough and rejoicings were kept up with the inasmuch as two of the Russians protect himself from risks which lorry loads of munition girls in their utmost enthusiasm. were lying in Wrexham Infirmary during the war he had been equally overalls, and groups of male workers (Wrexham Advertiser, 16.11.1918) suffering from very severe knife determined to avoid. Thus has on foot were soon to be seen parading wounds, and four Rhostyllen men ignominiously fallen one of the most the streets of the town. The Mayor were also badly injured in a similar monstrously cruel and inhuman addressed the gathering crowd from way. One Russian and one monarchs that ever ascended a the balcony of Wynnstay Hotel. “We Rhostyllen man were in a critical throne. meet this morning,” said his Worship condition. Happily for the peace of the world, “on a very joyful occasion – the most Inspector Rees brought the three the reign of this monster in human joyful we could possibly imagine or think of. After four years of the most prisoners to Wrexham at about 1 a.m. guise has been brought to an inglorious end and his dreams of tremendous conflict in the history of They were still under the influence of conquest have been permanently the world, I have the pleasure of drink. At 3 a.m. he charged Goldberg shattered. The world would be better announcing that a complete victory and Ilvice with causing grievous if it were rid of the fallen monarch has been obtained for the forces of bodily harm to four Rhostyllen men. and of all those parasites on human right against the power of evil.” (Loud D.C.C. Tippett said that other men progress who have allied themselves applause). would be brought before the court in with him and his mad, bloodthirsty The Band of the R.W.F. played the due course. The Defendants were and unavailing efforts to rule the National Anthem and “Hen Wlad Fy remanded until Thursday next week. universe. Nhadau,” after which three cheers (Wrexham Advertiser, 23.11.1918) (Wrexham Advertiser, 16.11.1918) were given for his Majesty’s forces. © Denbighshire Archives, DD/G/3959

14 PLEASE DO NOT REMOVE THIS NEWSPAPER FROM THE MUSEUM WREXHAM TELEGRAPH THE GREAT WAR – COMMEMORATIVE EDITION

THE OBSERVER ABROAD DISTRICT NEWS WOMEN’S WAR SERVICE THE ZEEBRUGGE EPIC LOST AND FOUND EXHIBITION AT WREXHAM I very much regret to hear that some BRYMBO A WREXHAM SAILOR HONOURED LOST, on Tuesday, between LATEST A highly interesting and instructive people have such little respect for the The great episode of the Navy in the and Wrexham, a Enlisted For the Fifth Time — A feelings of the bereaved as to exhibition illustrating the work and never to be forgotten operation at WRIST WATCH. Finder interfere with the floral tributes Brymbo soldier who has been conditions of employment in the Zeebrugge was called to mind on rewarded — 1, James Terrace, various branches of Women’s War Old Rhosrobin places on the Borough Memorial to discharged five times from the army Monday when Lieut. Harold Vivian Service, was opened at the Church our fallen heroes. A young lady who Rogers, R.N.R., Navigating Officer of LOST, on Monday, June 16th, on medical grounds provides an House on Wednesday. The immense deposited a beautiful bunch of flowers WAR the ‘Daffodil’, a Wrexham boy, son of between Gresford Offices and example of unflagging determination value of women’s war services is New Rhosrobin, FIVE £1 on the shrine in memory of her fallen increasingly being recognised, and Mr and Mrs W. J. Rogers, Harddin NOTES. Finder rewarded — to “do his bit”. A member of the lover was very much grieved to find, the exhibition forms part of an Villa, Bersham Road, Wrexham, was John Collins, Garden Cottage, shortly afterwards, that it had been Territorials prior to the war, Pte. J. NEWS extensive campaign to bring home to the recipient of a presentation sword New Rhosrobin and a gold watch. Lieut. Rogers, who stolen, presumably for the sake of the Davies, of the Green, rejoined in the women of the country of the WILL the Person who took the silk ribbon, with which it was tied. It necessity for further recruits. took part in the Great Adventure, is wrong TRAVELLING CASE, is impossible to describe one’s September 1914, and was drafted to CHAOS IN AUSTRIA The following stalls were arranged a native of Wrexham, and was from the 8 p.m. Chester-Wrexham bus, on detestation of such conduct, and it is Ireland with the R.F.A. After a few Late last night the British around the room: V.A.D. (Red Cross educated at the Victoria Schools and and St John’s), Queen Mary’s Army Saturday night last, please to be hoped the public will assist in months he was discharged on medical Government had not received news of at Grove Park School, and a communicate with — Jones, 2, bringing future culprits to book. Auxiliary Corps, Women’s Royal subscription list was opened to Aelybryn, Brymbo. Objects of grounds, but again joined the South the signature of the armistice OBSERVER between Italy and Austria, and there Naval Service, Women’s Royal Air present him with a token of high value to owner only Force, Women’s Land Army, Navy (Wrexham Advertiser, 23.03.1918) Wales Borderers. The same thing was reason to suppose that this stage regard in which his fellow townsmen and Army Canteen Board, Air £2 REWARD — Lost on Friday happened on three further occasions, had not then been actually reached. held him. Constructional Instruction Stall, afternoon, between Queen-street, Count Tisza, the ex-Hungarian The presentation was made in the Wrexham and , R he being discharged each time after a Munitions Stall, Queen Mary’s I understand the Old Guildhall in Premier, one of the main culprits for Council Chamber at the Guildhall on a LEATHER POUCH containing Needlework Guild, and a stall in Brynyffynnon Lane is at last to be few months’ training. Last week, not the war, has been assassinated by a about £20 in Treasury Notes. — connection with Lady Palmer’s Guild Monday evening. His Worship The Apply, Police Station, Wrexham soldier. demolished. The building is in a to be deterred he offered himself for the supply of bandages and other Mayor presented the sword, watch (Wrexham Advertiser, 21.06.1919) (Wrexham Advertiser, 02.11.1918) shocking state of dilapidation, and again, and has been accepted for a hospital requirements. and a cheque for £7 10s, the balance has certainly become an eyesore. Its left over from the subscription list. machine gun position. Demonstrations are taking place NOTICES historic associations are almost R daily in fruit and vegetable bottling The gifts were then handed over amid unequalled in the town, and although ARMISTICE ULTIMATUM and canning by Miss Prothero of the the greatest applause, the audience THE ROLL OF HONOUR which it has long since passed the BROUGHTON From the Allied Headquarters, the Food Production Department, in rising. records the NAMES of the MEN utilitarian stage, one regrets, Accident — Whilst proceeding along General Armistice Mission yesterday thatching by Miss Luxmore and Mrs Lieut.Rogers, who was loudly FROM WREXHAM who have sentimentally, its removal. Jones-Mortimer, in V. A. D. Work by cheered, said on behalf of the Service fallen in the war IS NOW ON Hope Street, Wrexham, on Monday sent the text of the terms to the Architecturally it has always been an Imperial Chancellor and the German members of the Roseneath V. A. D. to which he had the honour to belong, VIEW IN THE CHURCHES IN Staff; in shell drilling, core making, object of great interest, and the pity morning, Miss Primrose Buffy, High Command by a courier who had he desired to thank them for the gifts. THE BOROUGH, IN THE gauging, &c by a party of munition is it could not have been taken in Francis Road, Moss, was attacked by to cross the French lines beyond He gave an account of the great work girls. Operations which proved a GUILDHALL, and IN THE hand in time, purchased and restored Guise in the evening and proceed to the ‘Daffodil’ did in sealing up the a passing cow, which appears to have special attraction and provoked much FREE LIBRARY. Any Spa, in Belgium, not far from the harbour at Zeebrugge, and in by the Corporation, and converted interest. CORRECTIONS or ADDITIONS been frightened by the traffic. She German frontier. into a museum, or something of the (Wrexham Advertiser, 20.07.1918) assisting the ‘Vindictive’ in its work. should be sent to the Secretaries was thrown down, and sustained The terms must be accepted or kind. It would of itself form one of the He detailed the incidents, and spoke by Feb. 7th. DANIEL DAVIES, refused by eleven o’clock on Monday town’s most valuable relics. bruises and a severe shock. Miss R of the enthusiasm of the men, none of Vicarage, Wrexham morning. HONOUR FOR WREXHAM NURSE whom expected to return safely. He OBSERVER Buffy was taken home, and is FRANK P. DODD, The Groves, (Wrexham Advertiser, 16.11.1918) Marshal Foch refused the German — Information has been received that referred to a youth who fought hard Wrexham, Hon. Secretary recovering. request for an immediate suspension Sister Edith Hewitt (Q.A.I.M.N.S.R.), to get in the expedition, and did so. ------(Wrexham Advertiser, 01.02.1919) WEARING A DISCHARGED On Leave — Lce.-Corpl. Wm. Ed. of hostilities and the Allied advance daughter of the late George Hewitt This boy used to spend his holidays at continued yesterday vigorously. and Mrs Hewitt, of 79 Norman Road, Holt, but he was killed by a shell. SOLDIER’S BADGE Edwards, eldest son of Mr and Mrs E. Prince Max has resigned the Wrexham, has been mentioned in Lieut Rogers then resumed his seat T. Edwards, Bryn Tirion, Brynteg, is German chancellorship “owing to the dispatches for good work in SIX MONTHS’ IMPRISONMENT amid loud cheers. WITH HARD LABOUR AND A home on leave. He went to France, changed Parliamentary situation.” Mesopotamia. It will be remembered (Wrexham Advertiser, 09.11.1918) ...The Mayor said that Lieut. FINE OF £21 that Sister Hewitt was awarded “The August 1914, with the Wiltshire Order of the Royal Red Crown” some Rogers had most generously At the Wrexham Borough Police ------months back. Sister Hewitt is taking presented the cheque for £7 10s, the Court, Thomas Collins, The Fair Regiment, and was at the Mons, A BELGIAN SOLDIER’S GRATITUDE a short rest in India, prior to balance of the subscription, to the Alsace and other battles. He was Ground, Wrexham was brought up on LETTER TO A WREXHAM LADY returning to active service. Mayoress for her Comforts Fund. remand charged with unlawfully recently awarded the Mons ribbon, A lady in Wrexham has received the (Wrexham Advertiser, 24.08.1918) (Wrexham Advertiser, 19.10.1918) wearing a discharged soldier’s badge. and will be awarded the Mons “Star” following letter from a Belgian Prisoner pleaded guilty. soldier, who was wounded and who Sergeant Jones said at three p.m., on his return. was in a hospital in Wrexham. on 20th April he was on duty in the (Wrexham Advertiser, 01.06.1918) Armée Belge, 11eme Nov 1918 Beast Market, searching for men of My Dear ----- TE DEUM LAUDAMUS A WREXHAM military age attached to the Fair. He saw the prisoner, who was wearing Today, at 11 o’clock we had a great the silver badge for services rendered, The Armistice— When the news that solemnity at the place in the village and called him to one side, and asked the hostilities had ceased arrived in to celebrate the Armistice. I cannot tell you the joy which is in PRISONER him if he could produce discharge Cefn, the whole village assumed a our hearts. In the next days we will papers. They went into a shelter and holiday spirit, shops were closed, and have to go into our towns and we will the prisoner bolted; they gave chase have many emotions. Fundraising Poster, St David’s Day, 1918 (DWL 1058/7) and he was subsequently intercepted Messrs Graesser’s employees were OF WAR Today I am very nervous and I am by P.C. Arkinstall. He then appealed granted a holiday until Wednesday. writing you these few words to tell WREXHAM to one of his friends for his papers, you all my sympathies for the English DIED ON RETURN but he refused. Prisoner became RHOS Soldiers who have been so splendid in violent, feigned fainting, and said he the delivery of our dear Country and MAN’S wanted a conveyance, and witness Peace Rejoicings — It was with to all the English people who been so FROM GERMANY told him that unless he walked to heartfelt but innocent rejoicing good to all the Belgian wounded and EXPERIENCE A very sad case which is considered due to ill treatment received in Germany, County Buildings, he would be rather than any sensational outburst refugees. Yours, R De C. strapped to an ambulance. On the (Wrexham Advertiser, 16.11.1918) is that of a Wrexham soldier. He withstood for several months what is stated that Rhos received the great news on IN GERMANY way there he gave his name as ------to have been very harsh treatment, and succumbed very soon after his arrival Thomas Collins, but when asked for Monday, which was announced in so RETURNED FROM GERMANY home. At the outbreak of war, Pte. Ward T. Mills, son of Mrs and Mrs Mills, 6 Trevor Street, joined the colours when only 16 years of age. He saw lengthy Pte. G. Monslow, a well-known his Regimental number, he replied, unmistakeable a fashion by the Pte. Jos. Wilson, 1/10th Liverpool service in France, but along with thousands of others he was taken prisoner “That’s enough.” Scottish, has returned to his wife and Wrexham man arrived home on hooters and whistles of the during the German offensive of March last. The first information of his Prisoner denied asking anyone for family, at 39 Saxon-street, on his Monday after eight months’ captivity whereabouts was a postcard received by his parents in August. Numerous the loan of their discharge papers. neighbouring works. There was an release from Germany, where he had in Germany. But despite his trying letters and parcels of food were sent to him, none of which apparently reached obvious feeling of intense relief for been imprisoned for 12 months. He and hard times, his health is He said he was 23 years of age, and their destination. After the conclusion of hostilities, and the announcement was captured at Cambrai, after fortunately good. Relating some of was now quite willing to offer his the village has had a substantial that all British prisoners were to be returned, there were naturally high hopes having been severely wounded. Two services, and he was sure he would be of seeing his return. No word was however received from him but on Monday his experiences, Pte. Monslow quota of fighting men, and a heavy of his fingers were amputated by a good. evening he arrived home unexpectedly, but in such an exhausted and critical remarked, “During the recent German doctor, and he was The Chairman called the man’s roll of fallen heroes. The colliers condition that medical assistance was immediately obtained. Dr Geoffrey advance, we were forced to work for afterwards moved to the prison camp attention to the wording on the badge immediately the news was conveyed Williams upon examining him, found that he was suffering from influenza, 3d. a day which we very rarely at Friedrichsfeld, near Wesel. He “For King, Country and Empire, for which soon developed into acute pneumonia, and despite all endeavours, death received. We were constantly under to them down the pit broke out and looks remarkably well, and attributes services rendered” and said it was a took place on Wednesday. the fire of our own guns, and many of this entirely to the fact that he was sang Praise God From Whom All From a physical point of view the deceased was in a very bad condition. His most despicable offence for him to confined to camp the whole time our men were gassed and killed. The wear that badge. Blessings Flow. The management body from head to foot was emaciated. His starving condition and low vitality tasks we had to perform consisted of (owing to his low category caused by rendered his recovery practically hopeless. From what he told his parents, he After a retirement of a few minutes, announced that Tuesday would be damming the rivers and canals, the injuries), and received his food and others had to subsist on food that was uneatable. But most inexcusable the Chairman said the Bench flooding the country and pulling up observed as a holiday, but urged the parcels regularly. He says that the feature of the case is that on his arrival at Dover, he was pronounced by the considered the case a bad one. That a men to return to their work on men in a high category were sent to Medical Board, who examined him as “fit for travelling”, and that he would the railway lines to stop our boys young man of his age should shun his work in the mines or behind the lines, from advancing. The worst of all my Wednesday, which they did with the have recovered within a fortnight. responsibility to his country was a and consequently never received On his arrival at Wrexham Station, the fatigue of travelling had rendered experiences was conveying German disgrace, especially considering his exception of a small minority. On their parcels, with terrible results. him almost too week to stand and how he succeeded to walk to his home, wounded into hospital and holding The rations supplied by the Germans physique (prisoner being a well-built Monday evening, the streets loaded with heavy kit, is a mystery. The circumstances of the case have them down on the operating table, man). Looking at the gravity of the consisted of ‘rookie’ bread — which is aroused a strong feeling that some arrangements ought to be made for the presented a lively aspect, the which consisted of a strip of canvas, offence, he would have to be stated to consist of sawdust, glucose reception of the men who arrive from Germany, as a helping hand from the whilst the doctors amputated their convicted, and he would be committed Salvation Army Band parading the and other mysterious ingredients — station might save the lives of men placed in similar circumstances. limbs. These operations they carried to prison for six months with hard district playing the National barley water and cabbage water (Wrexham Advertiser, 30.11.1918) out without the use of any chloroform labour, and in addition would be fined which received the title of soup. He Anthems and hymns of rejoicing, and and the screams of the sufferers were £21; in default of which he would says but for the parcels from this country, they would most certainly terrible to hear. Our food consisted of have to serve an extra three months followed by hundreds of children have starved. The Russians in the STORY OF A WREXHAM PRISONER a small daily ration of bread, made with hard labour. carrying banners and singing to their camp were very badly treated and from a little wheat, grass and Prisoner, on hearing the sentence, hearts’ content. But the inhabitants suffered severely from malnutrition, The following story has been published in the ‘Liverpool Courier’: Pte. Howell said his name was not Collins, but sawdust, with coffee which was made did not forget their allegiance in with the result that the slightest Williams, R.W.F. who has just arrived home from Germany relating the from burnt wheat. On armistice day Thomas Hughes, and that he was a illness carried them off. But for food another manner, and services of prisoners’ need for food, tells a story of the mysterious disappearance of a pup we were turned into a field and told deserter, and had done his bit but did given them by the British soldiers, belonging to a German officer: — “A party of men” he says, “were walking to find our way to England the best not wish to go back to his old thanksgiving held during Tuesday at they would have been almost wiped along the road when a pup belonging to a German officer came up and one of manner we could. We were compelled Regiment. Capel Mawr, Penuel, Bethlehem and out. Referring to the treatment of the the prisoners, a soldier from Wrexham, smartly picked it up and thrust it into Prisoner was warned that he would to tramp 80 miles with no soles to our Seion, Ponkey were reminiscent of prisoners by the German Guard, Pte. his pocket. When we arrived at our camp the Wrexham man killed the pup only make matters worse for himself Wilson said the most human were and after boiling it ate it himself. He offered me a joint, but though I was very boots. Many of our boys died on the by making such statements. the revival days of 1904. those who had previously been to hungry, I drew the line at boiled dog. What we lived on was mostly potato road, and we buried them on the (Wrexham Advertiser, 04.05.1918) (Wrexham Advertiser, 16.11.1918) England. (Wrexham Advertiser, 14.12.1918) peelings.” (Wrexham Advertiser, 14.12.1918) roadside. (Wrexham Advertiser, 07.12.1918)

PLEASE DO NOT REMOVE THIS NEWSPAPER FROM THE MUSEUM 15 WREXHAM TELEGRAPH THE GREAT WAR – COMMEMORATIVE EDITION

WREXHAM’S NATIONAL SHELL LETTERS TO THE EDITOR DISTRICT NEWS FACTORY INTERESTING FIGURES IN MEMORIAM A SOLDIER’S Ex-Service Men in Hospital MINERA GERMAN PRISONERS Sir, — May I, through the medium of DAVIES — killed in action Feb. 5th 1918 Pte J. Davies, — A gang of ten German prisoners On Friday week, in the National TERRIBLE STORY the “Advertiser” draw the attention of are now being employed at the Shell Factory, a presentation was K.S.L.I., aged 20, the dearly beloved son of Charles and Lily Davies, the people of Wrexham, to, shall I say, Pentre Cottage, Kings Mills. At 9.30 p.m. on Monday Dec. 16th, Minera Lime Works, where they are made to Mr Simpson, the highly a ‘small’ item? I am very much doing labouring tasks. They are acclaimed and respected manager, on I think I see his smiling face Corpl. Eli Banks, son of Mrs S. J. surprised to find that so soon they billeted in a hut in the works, and are the occasion of the closing down of the As he bade his last goodbye Williams, Woollam’s Cottages, Moss, seen to have forgotten the ex-Service factory. And left his home forever, under military guard. Work is returned home from Germany, where men in Hospital. reported to be very brisk in the lime Miss Francis, one of the first In a foreign land to die. he has been a prisoner. His arrival At Roseneath, a number of these employees of the factory, then He sleeps besides his comrades trade generally. home was an unexpected and men are undergoing treatment for (Wrexham Advertiser, 08.02.1919) presented Mr Simpson, on behalf of In a grave across the foam wounds received the Great War that the workers, with an illuminated But his name is written in letters of love delightful surprise to his mother. BROUGHTON ANOTHER GIFT — Corpl. Banks, who is 24 years of age, has just drawn to a successful close. address, executed in book form, and On the hearts he left at home. No one seems to care for them. Mr D .E. Rees, headmaster of containing the names of all the — Deeply mourned by Mother, Father, Brothers and Sisters was a member of the Broughton Coy., Broughton School, has by now a very of the Territorials, and joined the Visitors do not call round now with employees — a total of about 220 their sympathy, cigarettes or papers, fine war museum, contributed by his women and 32 men. EVANS — In loving birthday remembrance of my dear army in August, 1916. He went to former pupils. He has just received husband, Pte Frank Evans, 3/RWF, died of wounds in 20 as they did only a few months ago, Mr Simpson in returning thanks, France, and on Nov. 30th 1917 was when the war was at its height. On another gift, this time from Sapper said he would like to say something of General Hospital, Camiers, France, Oct. 28th 1918, aged 23 taken prisoner near Cambrai. He had E.E. Roberts, Ffrwd (a former pupil), years, Feb. 4th 1919. the whole, things appear to have been the success of the factory, which was been wounded, and was taken to a slightly neglected by the inhabitants in the shape of a pickelhaube — better known to him than to most of If only I could have raised his dying head, German helmet — which is And heard his last farewell, German Hospital. After being in of Wrexham. Where are the motor them. In November 1916 the output hospital for about a month he was trips? Why not the concerts as before? practically new. of shells was 1,400 per week. In Nov. The blow might not have been so great, (Wrexham Advertiser, 08.03.1919) 1917, this had increased to 2,000 per To me, who loved him well. sent, along with 600 other prisoners On summing up, I feel that the week, and in Nov. 1918 to 4,500 per Dear Frank, you are sleeping your last long sleep; of war, to Germany. The day before following lines are not too severe: RHOS THE LEAGUE OF NATIONS week. (Applause) In addition, the And your grave I may never see; starting they were kept out in the When the war arose and trouble was — A meeting has been held at Capel high explosive shells from all the May some loving hand in that distant land, snow from 8 a.m. to 5.30 p.m. at nigh, Mawr to establish a branch of the works in North Wales, with the Gently place some flowers for me. which point they were packed into God and the soldier was the cry; League of Nations’ Union in the exception of Messrs Powell Brothers, — Always remembered by his sorrowing wife, Hannah, cattle trucks – 45 to a truck. They Now war is o’er and troubles righted parish. The following resolution was passed through the factory, thus Castletown-road, Moss God is forgotten, and the soldier moved: “That the inhabitants of Rhos, received no food, and the first meal slighted. Yours &c., A COMRADE making the total weekly output into (Wrexham Advertiser, 08.02.1919) the poor fellows had was at 11 o’clock in public meeting assembled, heartily approves of the general objects and 12,000 shells. That showed a very the following morning, and consisted steady increase, particularly during Returning Soldiers Unemployed aims of the League of Nations’ Union, of boiled turnips. No bread was Sir, — May I say that there are boys and pledges itself to support the the last twelve months, and the served out. The next meal was at secret of their success was, he felt, WREXHAM’S FESTIVE DAY in the town for whom the Peace movement for the League of Free due to the co-operation between the 11.30 the next morning when each rejoicings fell flat; men who gave up Peoples for the securing of workers and himself, for they had all man had a small ladleful – a small all they had — home, kindred, health international justice, mutual defence been working together for one Celebrating Peace cupful – of cooked barley. The journey and wife, to fight because Kings and permanent peace, and declares common aim, to produce as many was resumed, and at 4.30 p.m. the willed it so, and not for love of strife. its willingness to join a national shells as possible. (Applause) The following day, they received a smaller Some have been spared wounds, but union organized on a voluntary basis result had been that in their ration of cooked barley. Next morning they have faced the horror out in for the establishment of a League of BRILLIANT SCENES, France for years. And what is their production they had exceeded the at 4.30 a.m. they reached their Free Nations which will provide the highest hope of the North Wales reward, while munition workers and machinery for the abolition of war destination in Westphalia, and were others who stayed at home have been Board, and the cost of their shells was sent to Dolman Camp, which was a and for bringing about democratic the lowest of all National Shell GREAT REJOICINGS able to invest their savings in the control over international march of six miles. Here they were Factories that worked upon 18 lb. Victory Loan? relationship. Further that it pledges shells. (Applause) The reason for kept the whole day, but no food was The returned soldier has found on itself to form a branch of the Union in their success was, of course, well given. Here they came in contact with his return to civil life that his home Rhos, and hereby requests the known to him, but was pointed out by parcels from England and but for and work have been taken up by following bodies to elect members to a representative of the Ministry of these they must unquestionably have strangers, sometimes by foreigners. serve on the committee, viz: Free Munitions, that the men seemed to be starved. His dependents could not, in some Church Council 8 members, Church doing two jobs and the women and On Aug. 24th 1918, the men were cases, keep the home fires burning on in Wales 3, Baptists 3, Hafod Lodge 4, girls 50% more than was expected of sent to another camp called Cottbus, the allowances, sometimes through Vauxhall Lodge 2, and Bersham them. and it was here that the prisoners sickness and other causes. The good Lodge 2. The vicar, Rev. J. H. Thomas Touching upon the subject of War heard the joyous news that the times for which he suffered and proposed the motion; seconded by endured, came to him in dug-outs and Savings, Mr Simpson said that Armistice had been signed. The news Rev. W.Wynn Davies and the munition workers had been charged shell-holes, of a living wage and a was translated from a German resolution was adopted. with spending their money with great comfortable cottage, seem farther off (Wrexham Advertiser, 17.05.1919) lavishness on useless luxuries, but he newspaper by an Australian officer. than ever. He is homeless and understood that the War Savings After this some 250 prisoners were workless. If he should visit a Labour RHOS REFUSAL — As was Association at that factory had sent to Stettin for two days. The camp Exchange he may hear of vacancies announced some time ago, the Rhos Women’s Auxiliary Army Corps, Women’s Land Army and Sunday School Children, Peace celebrations, Bellevue Parish Council refused the offer of a contributed £2,000, and £1,000 of this Park, July 19th 1919 (© Wrexham Archives) here was very dirty, and there were many miles away. What irony to a was invested in one week, during the no beds to lie on. But from here the man who has lost his joy of home machine gun. That the refusal was special effort made in the town on Over the length and breadth of the numbered over a thousand, had comforts and the companionship of justified remains to be seen. There is men embarked on boats for Denmark. a strong feeling in the district, behalf of War Savings a few months British Empire, Saturday last was passed, the Mayor read to the people The prisoners were hospitably wife and child for 4½ years? consecrated to the rejoicings for the the King’s Message. The route taken particularly amongst several of the ago. In conclusion the speaker entertained by the Danes and at 1.30 Our town recently made appeals to expressed his sorrow at having to celebration of peace and to say the was Charles-street, High-street, rejoice and to invest. What has the discharged and demobilized men that very least Wrexham rose Hope-street, Regent-street, p.m. on Dec. 14th they set sail for the machine gun should have been part with them, but thought it fitting Hull, and from Hull, Corpl. Banks left returned soldier to invest? He that they should separate at the magnificently to the occasion. The Grosvenor-road, Rhosddu-road, to the invested his all in 1914 and what has accepted. They think that it would factory, among the machinery, where town was gorgeously decorated with “Wm. Jones” Recreation Ground for Ripon en route for home, where he it brought him? All that some of us have proved an interesting memento they had all worked together so colour, and from everywhere people where the ex-servicemen were given a arrived as said on Dec. 16th. In civil ask is the right to work. We are as of the war, and also would be a slight amicably for the common cause. crowded to the centre for the splendid luncheon, which was very life he was a collier at Brynmally, and willing to work as we were to fight in acknowledgment of what the district (Applause) (Wrexham Advertiser, 04.01.1919) never-to-be-forgotten occasion. Never much enjoyed. is an old pupil at Pentre Schools. 1914. Yours, &c., 7th DIVISION did in the war. Others are of a ------in the history of the Borough has (Wrexham Advertiser, 11.01.1919) (Wrexham Advertiser, 02.08.1919) different opinion altogether and THE RETURN OF THE 1ST BATT. there been such great rejoicings and AFTERNOON PROCEEDINGS contend that they have seen enough the day was evidently a climax to all The Park presented a joyful of the war and its horrors of R.W.F. TO WREXHAM other events; and never has such a appearance in the afternoon. The Memorial for Next-of-Kin to those Who Fell destruction to life. On Friday night the remnant of the carnival been witnessed before with children of the Sunday Schools in the THE KING’S MESSAGE UNEMPLOYMENT 1st Batt. R.W.F., four officers and 46 such an outpouring of patriotic Borough had assembled around the Unemployment in the district still men all that were left of the Battalion enthusiasm when the manhood of the band stand. When all had assembled, In connection with the Government’s application for them should be made, keeps at a high level, and a large on active service returned to borough assembled to receive the the bands of the R.W.F. commenced to decision to issue a memorial plaque as in view of the large number number of men are continually to be Headquarters at Wrexham Barracks. homage of the people, for their play ‘O God, our help in ages past’ and scroll to the next-of-kin who have involved it is impossible to say when seen standing at the corners of the This is the first time during this war services so well and deservedly which was responded to by no less fallen in the war, the War Office their issue in individual cases may be streets. As far as can be ascertained, of the return of any body of soldiers to rendered. than 10,000 voices. Then came one of announce that the work of expected. (Wrexham Advertiser, 28.06.1919) the majority of the unemployed are North Wales as a unit, and the Khaki was plentiful in the the finest sights ever witnessed in the distributing has now begun. In the men who have returned from the occasion was therefore an eventful gathering crowd, but one could not Borough. Over 7,000 children case of officers, the scroll will be Army, and owing to the lack of one. The welcome was of the heartiest fail to recognize the deep mourning, marched in procession through the issued from the War Office, in the vacancies, they are thrown out of description, but was tinged with which in these days at all events is town. case of other ranks from the Record employment. sadness from the thought that as a the sad but glorious compliment of the The procession proceeded as follows: Office of the unit concerned. (Wrexham Advertiser, 21.06.1919) result of the many heroic deeds colours of the country. High-street The Mayor and Corporation, County The scroll is of thick paper in the performed against terrible odds the and Regent-street were never before and Borough Magistrates, Fire form of a rectangle, approximately WREXHAM MARBLE STEP FROM ranks have been reduced to a mere at such a high pitch of Brigade, Women’s Auxiliary Army seven by seven inches. It bears the NAMUR — Just before the outbreak handful and that hundreds of the lightheartedness and from an early Corps, Women’s Land Army, Girl following inscription: of war a new floor and steps were original force which entered the fight hour it was difficult for pedestrians to Guides; Hightown, Brynyffynnon, “He whom this scroll being placed in the chancel of in 1914, now lie in honoured graves get about. Victoria-road and Egerton-street commemorates was numbered among Wrexham Parish Church, but owing beyond the seas. The bells of the Parish Church Wesleyan Schools; Chester-street, those who at the call of King and to hostilities, the marble steps were The Battalion which left Italy, on commenced to peal at 9 o’clock in the Rhosddu, Penybryn, and Bradley-road country left all that was dear to them, detained at Namur. Here they Monday, reached the G.W.R. Station morning, and continued at intervals Baptists; Zion, Calvinistic Methodists; endured hardness, faced danger and remained hidden all through the war, at 10.30 p.m. and was met by the towards late in the afternoon. Victoria Hall, Smithfield-road, Trinity finally passed out of the sight of men but they have now been delivered, Mayor and members of the Town The Beast Market presented a and Bersham-road Presbyterians; by the path of duty and self-sacrifice, and are being placed in position. Council. There was also a large striking military appearance, Salisbury Park, Queen-street and giving up their own lives that others (Wrexham Advertiser, 31.05.1919) gathering of townspeople, who Ex-servicemen commenced to Chester-street, Congregationalists; might live in freedom. Let those who ------cheered heartily. Outside the station, assemble soon after ten o’clock. Salvation Army Band; Salvation come after see to it that his name be PEACE FESTIVITIES IN THE DISTRICT the troops were lined up near the Markers were put out for the different Army; Poyser-street Primitive not forgotten.” Coedpoeth - A sad feature of the peace Mold-road steps and were addressed units, which included the Navy, Methodists; Talbot-road, Church of The scrolls will be accompanied by celebrations at Coedpoeth was a by the Mayor as follows “Officers, Infantry, Artillery, R.A.F., R.A.C., Christ; Boy Scouts, with bugle band; the following letter from Buckingham heavy downpour of rain in the Non-Commissioned Officers and men R.A.M.C., Q.M.A.A.C., Girls of the St. John’s, St. David’s, St. Mark’s, St. Palace, over the King’s signature: afternoon, delaying the children’s of the 1st Batt. R.W.F., in the name of Land Army and Red Cross Nurses. Michael’s, Smithfield-road, “I join with my grateful people in procession for a long time. In the the Corporation and people of The initial formation in company Poplar-road, St Giles’ Church Army – sending you the memorial of a brave morning a religious service was held Wrexham, I welcome you back to your order was quickly got over, and the Church of England schools; St. Mary’s life given for others in the great war.” Scroll presented to the next-of-kin of Pte John Daniel on the War Memorial Ground. After old town. We have followed your men responded with true military Roman Catholics; Gresford Colliery The scrolls will be distributed as they Williams, killed in the Third Battle of Ypres, 1917 the procession, tea was provided in fortunes during the last four years discipline to the orders which for the Band and the children from Acton and become ready, and no special (WREMA 2014.32) the different Sunday schools, with anxious, sorrowful yet proud past five years have been ringing in Stansty parishes. The route taken was provision having been made for the hearts. We know how great has been their ears. The Mayor (Councillor L. Bradley-road, Regent-street, YOUR OPPORTUNITY TO ASSIST A GREAT CAUSE children not connected with any your trials, how terrible your B. Rowland) and members of the Hope-street, and High-street, where Sunday school. A reception was given dangers, and how inflexible your Corporation made their way to the the different schools broke off, and to the ex-servicemen in the Parish courage. Your wonderful patience, stand in the High-street. Promptly at proceeded to the individual Sunday COMPETE IN THE GRAND FETE Hall. The menu consisted of roast your splendid discipline, and of the stated time, the old command Schools for tea. ON WHIT-MONDAY beef, pork, lamb, new potatoes, peas, British valour in the field. This town “Shun, form fours, right!” was given pastry, salad and tea. Each man was of Wrexham is proud of you — and the procession marched off. First EVENING PROCEEDINGS In Aid of Wrexham and East War Memorial, etc. presented with a pack of cigarettes. A Fusiliers, well done!” came the men who were unable to From 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. the Band of the ATHLETIC SPORTS - Open Events. Prizes £40 procession of ex-servicemen The Mayor invited all of them to afterwards took place from the walk through wounds, who were 2nd Batt. R.W.F. played in the park. CHORAL CONTESTS - Prizes £55 meet him the next day at the accommodated in motors and the Memorial Ground to Plas Power During the evening the Mayor Park. The park had been kindly lent Wynnstay Hotel to partake of the bands of the 1st & 2nd Batts. R.W.F. accepted from Mrs J. Stanford a MALE VOICE CHOIR Test piece – ‘Welsh Airs’ (by Harry Evans) hospitality of the Borough. Immediately afterwards came the for the occasion by Mrs Fitzhugh, and clocked presented by Councillor CHILDREN’S CHOIR Test piece – ‘Soldiers and Sailors’ (by Dr D. Evans) a long list of sports was gone through, (Applause) (Wrexham Advertiser, 08.02.1919) men of the Navy, Artillery etc. The Stanford for the Bowling Green BAND CONTEST and greatly appreciated, valuable troops were cheered to the echo, and Pavilion. The remainder of the prizes being offered. particularly so when Major Crawshay evening was spent in dancing on the Test piece ‘Songs of the Sea’ (by W.Rimmer) DAIRY SHOW – Prizes £45 To commemorate the occasion each (mounted) came in front of the tennis courts. parishioner in receipt of an old age Infantry. The members of the For Farms under 100 acres, under 150 acres and over pension was presented with five Q.M.A.A.C., Nurses and Land Girls THE FIREWORKS shillings, and those in receipt of were given an enthusiastic welcome, A spectacular display of fireworks 150 acres. Classes for Bu"er, Eggs, Poultry, Bread, etc out-door relief additional allowances. and lastly came the R.A.M.C. and the brought the day’s proceedings to a OPEN RABBIT SHOW The whole of the peace celebrations A.O.C, who received some unpleasant close. Rockets and fireworks, crackers funds amounting to £150 had been gesticulations, such as “Here come the etc were freely let off, and continued AMBULANCE COMPETITION THE CINDERELLA CONCERT PARTY (Mr Walter Roberts) raised voluntarily. In the district 400 No. 9s etc”, but these were taken in a until a late hour. Flares were fired on men from the parish joined the For further particulars, apply Gen. Sec. C. R. B. Jones, Cambrian Works, Wrexham Unveiling of the R.W.F. Memorial, Grosvenor Road, sportsmanlike manner. As each unit the hills, and the outskirts of town colours, out of which 56 made the Wrexham, 15 November 1924. Sculptor: Sir William passed, the salute was taken by the were brightly lighted. (Wrexham Advertiser, 19.04.1919) supreme sacrifice. Goscombe John (DWL 1049/21-24) Mayor. After the procession, which (Wrexham Advertiser, 26.07.1919) (Wrexham Advertiser, 26.07.1919)

The Editor wishes to acknowledge the kind assistance of Mr T. Britton, Mrs Plant, Mrs Cresswell and Mr R. Jarvis (Industrial Correspondent) and Mr J. K. Plant, the County Archivist, in the preparation of this publication. Typesetting: Mr J. P. Richards

16 PLEASE DO NOT REMOVE THIS NEWSPAPER FROM THE MUSEUM