The Live Bait Squadron Bulletin
Bulletin-8 August 2014
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INTRODUCTION, BY YOUR VIRTUAL CHAIRMAN
Dear members,
Welcome to this August edition of our Bulletin - the last issue before the September Commemoration ceremonies, which will be held at Chatham (21st , 22nd) and The Hague (24th).
The afternoon meeting scheduled for 21 September at Chatham’s St. George’s Centre is fully booked since the maximum of 200 participants has already been registered. A detailed programme, which will also serve as an admission ticket, will be sent to every participant in the first week of September next.
The Chatham Historic Dockyard, on the other hand, isn’t booked-up yet for the events of Monday 22nd September. Currently about 500 relatives and others have applied for a ticket there, and as the Dockyard seats 1,000 people, additional applications will be welcomed. Meanwhile the Dockyard sent confirmations to all those who have put forward their names so far. Admission tickets will be also be sent in time before the event.
So far about forty British descendants are planning to attend the ceremonies in the Netherlands on the 24th of September. A detailed programme will be sent to each of them individually, also in the first week of September.
All seems to be going according to plan so far. As far as I am concerned, I am really looking forward to all of the oncoming events and, of course, to meeting all of you.
Henk H.M. van der Linden
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OUR NEW SOCIETY MEMBERS
This time again we’re happy to welcome a number of new Society Members,
HMS Aboukir: Mr Arthur E. Harwood. Mr Charles Ambrose Lamkin. Mr Woodman George Triggs. Mr Richard ‘Dick’ Shilling. Mr Frank Douglas. Mr Edward Allan Mercer. Mr Joseph Baldwin Roberts. Mr Charles Valentine Garrod. Mr Joseph Baldwin Roberts. Mr Stephen Creed. Mr John Edwin Medhurst. Mr Frank Albert Terry. Mr Arthur edwin Knights.
HMS Cressy Mr James Conder. Mr George John Blandford. Mr Walter Charles Nelson Hall. Mr James William Hussey. Mr Thomas Joseph Hussey. Mr George Henry Perry. Mr Harry Bray Harris. Mr Coulson Henry Crascall. Mr William J. Potter. Mr Thomas Tranton Keates. Mr Frank Parkhurst. Mr John Thomas Ellis.
HMS Hogue Mr Ernest Thundercliffe. Mr Frederick John Kennett. Mr John Street. Mr Alfred Albert Dunn. Mr Arthur Brayshaw (alias Lawrence Barnes). and their relatives and family members.
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I intend to write about them in Bulletin-9. Because of the Commemorations in September this Bulletin is to be expected last of October.
MEMORIALS AND MONUMENTS
As this Bulletin has about 40 pages, no monuments this time.
FROM HENK’s TREASURE CHEST
For the same reason: my Treasure Chest keeps shut this time.
THE DOCUMENTARY
The Documentary work is right on schedule and is expected to come out next September in Chatham and in The Netherlands. In Chatham on the 21st September at St. George’s Centre and in The Netherlands in The Hague, on the 24th September. For a preview, see the trailer https://vimeo.com/69971830.
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ABOUT THE MEN
About William Frederick Everitt (HMS Aboukir)
Mrs Jill Scarff says: ‘My grandfather William Frederick Everitt was on the Aboukir went it went down. He survived and was collected by a Dutch trawler but that is all I know. He would have been 23 years old, born in 1891. He survived both wars and I am slowly trying to find out more. Sadly my mother passed away a few years ago but I remember her showing me a book and it told of WF Everitt being rescued from the sea, but I cannot find the book. Can you help me find any information out about my grandfather service no. 239237 or point me in the right direction please. Many thanks.’
About Stanley Charles Kennard (HMS Aboukir)
Mr Richard Kennard wrote me this: ‘Just wanted to take a moment to make contact. Firstly - thank you for taking the time to set up the website and write the book. The book had really good pace and was gripping from start to finish. I'd have probably read it in a single sitting if it hadn't been so harrowing... Somewhere on the site you mentioned wanting to get in touch with as many descendants as possible. I am Richard Charles Kennard, great grandson of KENNARD, Stanley Charles, Private, RMLI (RFR Ch B 1981), 12643 (Ch) Stanley Charles name has been handed down ever since. My father (another navy man) was Malcolm Stanley, my grandfather William Charles, and my uncle Stanley. Only recently when I found a letter to Stanley's widow dated 1915 did I realise the history. Suspect Stanley was partly the inspiration for my father going to sea. I also suspect the lack of having a father at home was partly responsible for my grandfather being a little emotionally withdrawn but that may just have been a generational thing. At this point I know very little that I can tell you about him; His body was not recovered. I know that we have been naming family members after him ever since, and that he probably was an influence on my grandfather and father to go to sea. I do have two interesting original documents; 1) certificate of the inspector of Seamens Wills dated 22nd of July 1914 giving to his widow Edith a share of the Naval prize Bond and compensation for loss of effects. 2) a second document dated the 12th of October 1914 where Edith his widow is granted a pension in consideration of her husband and an allowance for three children.’
About Patrick Scamaton (HMS Aboukir)
Margaret Nicholls, is a greatniece of Patrick Scamaton. She is sorry to say she has nothing about him. This is what I can find:
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Patrick was a Ship’s Steward Assistant, 347430, Royal Navy. Age 24. Son of Martin and hepzibah Scamaton, of Gillingham; husband of Emily Eleanor Scamaton, of 31, Gillingham Avenue, Gillingham, Kent.
About Thomas Gerard King (HMS Aboukir)
Mrs Patsy Page has nothing more than this about Thomas: ‘My relative was Thomas Gerard King. He was a Warrant Mechanician onboard Aboukir.’ I can add this: His age was 42, he was husband of Lizzie King, of 32, Avondale Rd. Buckland, Portsmouth. He is remembered on the Portsmouth Monumenty.
About Horace Bramall (HMS Aboukir)
Mr Andy Horsfield writes this: ‘I live in Silkstone a village just outside Barnsley, South Yorkshire and have been researching the names of the men commemorated on our village War Memorial for a number of years. One of these men is Horace Bramall who died on the Aboukir. I have been aware of his story for a number of years and met with descendants of his family who have provided me with snippets of information on Horace including a photo of him in his Navy uniform. I also have a newspaper report of a service held in honour of Horace at our village church. As part of the hundred year anniversary of this tragic event I am in the process of writing an article in our quarterly village newsletter about Horace which will go to print at the end of May. Do you have any information at all about Horace Bramall - I would like particularly like to know how he joined the Navy - was he a reservist called up in early August. I know hos family history but little about his service history If you would like to add the photograph and other information about Horace Bramall to any of the projects you are undertaking, please let me know and I will happily oblige.’
About William Pointer (HMS Aboukir)
Mrs Joanne Pointer wrote the story of William. ‘I have put together all I currently know about Bill and his family. Luckily for me my Grandmother was a great hoarder and I have many original documents thanks to her. If you have any questions please get in touch and I will try and help. Unfortunately all my family are now dead with the exception of distant cousins that I do not have contact with.’
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William Pointer (known as Bill) Born 14 Dec 1885 at 2 Chester Road, Westgate-on-Sea, Kent. Died 22 Sept 1914 on HMS Aboukir. Remembered on Chatham Naval Memorial (I have not checked this). Joined Royal Navy 14 Dec 1903 aged 18 (previous occupation recorded as Conductor) He was 5 feet 5 inches tall, had light brown hair, blue/grey eyes and fair complexion
Family Father Henry Charles Samuel Pointer, Mother Emma Ann Sayer who were married on 3 Feb 1873 at Zion Chapel, Margate both aged 20 years. Henry’s occupation was recorded as ‘Seaman-coal trade’ and Emma’s as ‘Domestic Servant’. They had 13 children and one of those died at birth. My grandfather (George) was the youngest born on 30 July 1895. Other births that I know of are Emma Ann born 6 May 1880, Henry John Charles born 1881 and Frederick James Pointer born 16 June 1887. Whenever Emma recorded the births she put a ‘cross’ as her mark as she could not write. Throughout the records Henry’s occupation is recorded as ‘general labourer or builder’s labourer’. Emma died in Feb 1897 aged 44 years, 2 years after my grandfather was born, but Henry lived until 29 Oct 1932 and died aged 80 at 4 Essex Road, Westgate-on-Sea, having been looked after by his daughter Emma in his later years. In his obituary it was said that he was known as ‘Old Harry’. In the 1901 census they were living at 4 Essex Road, Westgate-on-Sea and those recorded are Henry aged 49, daughters Annie aged 17 and Edith aged 10, sons William aged 15, Frederick aged 13, Josiah aged 8 and George aged 5. Emma Sayer is also recorded aged 71 and I believe this was Emma’s mother (Henry’s mother-in-law). Willliam’s occupation was recorded as ‘errand boy’. In the 1911 census they are still living at 4 Essex Road. Henry is 59, Emma (daughter) is 30 and housekeeper at home, William is 25 and a Seaman, Frederick is 23 and a general labourer, Josiah is 18 and a laundryman and George is 15 and a house boy. Frederick also died at sea during the war. I have a death card showing that Private FJ Pointer A.S.C. lost his life through the sinking of H.M. Transport ‘Royal Edward’ by a German Submarine in the Aegean Sea on 14 Aug 1915. Tragedy also struck the family in 1945 as son Henry (known as Harry) died as the result of an accidental fall from a wall at the Sewerage Works in Stockport where he worked. My grandfather attended the funeral.
Royal Navy Career Period of Engagement- 14 Dec 1903 for 12 years. From 23 Jan 06 to 7 June 06 he was at HMS Ganges which I believe was a training ship at Shotley Gate in Suffolk. Coincidentally we lived at the married quarters at Shotley Gate for 4 years when my husband was posted to RAF Wattisham. I did not know about the family connection until after we left, otherwise I would have found out information whilst living there. Bill became a diver in Sept 06 on ‘Minotaur’ and also served on ‘Agincourt, Pembroke, Actacon, Achilles, Egeria, Forsight, Aeolus, Aquarius and finally Aboukir. Note-some of these spellings may be wrong as it is hard to read the writing! Bill passed educationally for Petty Officer on 4 March 13 and was granted an Education Certificate in May 13. Coming from a very poor working class family this must have been an achievement.
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Bill seems to have led a colourful career having been in the cells for 7 days on 2 occasions and in July 1914 had 14 days detention and was disrated by Warrant for returning from leave drunk. He was charged with being drunk, disobedient, insolent and impertinent. After this on 2 Aug 14 he joined HMS Aboukir and the rest is history.
Other Information Before joining the Navy, Bill tried to join the 3rd battalion ‘The Buffs’ East Kent, but on 19 Feb 02 he was discharged with the reason given as ‘His not likely to become an efficient soldier’. His conduct and character was recorded as ‘good’. Bill was confirmed at Harwich on 28 Oct 02 by the Bishop of Colchester after being prepared by the chaplain of H.M.S. Ganges. His first communion was on 16 Nov. When he left H.M.S. Agincourt he was presented with a bible by the chaplain. I have a letter he wrote from H.M.S. Ganges on 19 April 02 to his Dad and a postcard he sent from Chatham on 31 Oct 06 to his sister Emma (known as Curly) who was then living in Paddington, London.
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About Henry William Corben (HMS Cressy)
This all is from Mrs Christine Parkes, about Henry Corben. It is quite a story, see for yourself.
FINDING ABLE SEAMAN CORBEN (HMS Cressy)
My Great-Uncle Henry William Corben died on HMS Cressy on the 22nd September 1914. My father was born one month later and in his memory, was named Henry Cressy. All who died on HMS Aboukir, HMS Hogue and HMS Cressy are remembered on the Chatham Naval Memorial apart from one. This person is Henry William Corben (Able Seaman Corben). So began the search to find ABLE SEAMAN CORBEN and to prove that his name should be on the memorial where it belongs. We found that there was a similar name listed on the memorial – William Henry Carben. This had to be Uncle Henry but with a spelling error and first names in the wrong order. Of course, proving it was another matter! We contacted Henk van der Linden, chairman of the ’Live Bait Squadron Society’, and his advice was to write to the British War Graves Commission. This we did, but they confirmed that ‘William Henry Carben’ was the name given to them by the Royal Navy for commemoration on the Chatham Naval Memorial. We were advised that in order to validate the changes being sought, we must provide sufficient documentary evidence. This would not be an easy task because most naval documents were recorded with the incorrect spelling of his name. This also meant that his name was excluded in most archives, which meant that he was literally written out from history.
This is the evidence found and sent to the British War Graves commission. 1. A copy of the UK Naval Medal and Awards Roll 1793-1972 with William Henry Corben listed as receiving the Star, Victory Medal and British War Medal. 2. A copy of his probate details stating that Henry William Corben died at sea on 22nd September 1914. 3. A copy of the death certificate for Lily Corben on 23rd March 1950. The certificate states that Lily was the widow of Henry William Corben, who was an Able Seaman on HMS Cressy. 4. A photograph of our great-grandparents’ gravestone. The inscription at the bottom reads: WILLIAM HENRY – beloved husband of LILY CORBEN who was lost in HMS Cressy, Sept 22nd 1914. 5. A copy of the Post Office Roll of Honour for postal workers who lost their lives on the three cruisers.
35 died - HMS Aboukir 13 died - HMS Hogue 28 died - HMS Cressy All are recorded on the Chatham Naval Memorial apart from Henry William Corben. 6. Copy of the Post Office gratuities in the name of Henry William Corben, stating that he died on 22nd September 1914. Cause of death: Lost by sinking of HMS Cressy.
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7. Photograph of the Sunderland Post Office Memorial. Henry William Corben is on the top left.
This collection of evidence was sent to the Commonwealth War Graves commission on the 22nd July 2013 with a request that on the basis of this proof, his name be added to the Chatham Naval Memorial and also to be corrected in other archives.
The War Graves Commission forwarded the details to the Ministry of Defence’s Historical Branch so that they in turn could review the evidence.
On the 2nd September 2013 we received a letter from the Commonwealth War Graves Commission saying that the Ministry of Defence had replied to them stating that “it is apparent that he chose to go by the name of William Henry CARBEN in service”. They added that “there may have been a number of reasons for this, which may never be fully known”. In conclusion, the Commonwealth War Graves Commission agreed with the MoD’s view that it was considered appropriate to keep the name he chose to use whilst in the Royal Navy, William Henry Carben.
His name was Henry William Corben and not Carben. He enlisted in the Royal Navy on the 20th December 1894 and served as an Able Seaman until 16th June 1905. He then re- enrolled on the 17th June 1905 with the Royal Fleet Reserve. He was employed by the Postal Service from 31st August 1908 until called to serve on HMS Cressy on 2nd August 1914. He died on 22nd September 1914.
We agree that his names were changed from Henry William to William Henry in order to avoid confusion with his father Henry Corben who also served in the Royal Navy. However, we totally disagree with the suggestion from the MoD that he chose to serve under the name Carben when his correct name was Corben.
On the 27th September I rang the MoD Naval Historical Branch and spoke to one of their representatives. She informed me that THIS is the name he chose, and THIS is the name that stays. She was adamant that there would be no changes made to the Chatham Naval Memorial and archives.
So, all the evidence collected and proving that he served as Corben and not Carben was rejected.
THE 1901 CENSUS William Henry Corben (Able Seaman Corben) served on HMS Warspite between 28th March 1899 and 1st July 1902. This ship is listed on his naval service record. He was on board HMS Warspite at midnight on Sunday 31st March 1901 when the census was written. He is clearly listed as William Henry Corben and not Carben.
THIS IS ABSOLUTE PROOF THAT HE SERVED IN THE ROYAL NAVY AS ABLE SEAMAN WILLIAM HENRY CORBEN AND DIED ON THE 22nd SEPTEMBER 1914 SERVING AS WILLIAM HENRY CORBEN.
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On the 27th September 2013, we posted to the Naval Historical Branch the list of all who were on board HMS Warspite for the 1901 census along with the other evidence collected. We received a reply from W.J.R. Gardner (Jock) Naval Historian and Deputy Head of the Naval Historical Branch. He informed us that he agreed that a mistake had been made and advised the Commonwealth War Graves Commission to alter the name on the Chatham Naval Memoriam from Carben to Corben.
We hope that the alteration would be done before the remembrance service on 22nd September 2014. However, we fully understand that it might not be possible because of the extra work the Commonwealth War Graves Commission have this centenary year. If this is the case, then Henk suggested to lay a temporary plaque at the foot of the Chatham Memorial on 22nd September so that his name will be there alongside his friends and colleagues and to be remembered with them.
The family would like to thank Henk for his advice and help. Thank you also to Sarah Quinn from the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, W.J.R. Gardner (Jock), Deputy Head of the Naval Historical Branch, and Barry Attoe from the British Postal Museum and Archives.
On behalf of the family of Henry William Corben (Able Seaman Corben) Christine F Parkes (great-niece)
ABLE SEAMAN WILLIAM HENRY CORBEN IS SURVIVED BY:
Grand-daughter: Marian Corben, husband of Jean-Pierre Bony. Great-grandsons: Nicolas Jean Bony and Christophe William Bony. Great-great-grandsons: Louis Maxime Bony and Aaron Paul Bony
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But: never to despair: this arrived in August 2014!
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About George Frederick Middleton (HMS Cressy) and George Michael Slater (HMS Hogue)
Mr Rob Blenkinsop says: ‘I have an interesting connection to the sinking of HMS Hogue and HMS Cressy in that both my Paternal Great Grandfather (George Michael SLATER, Stoker 1c (RFR B 9611), 297247 (Ch)) and my Maternal Great Uncle (George Frederick MIDDLETON, Sailmaker, 145018, RFR A 2017) were present during the action. George Michael Slater was killed aboard the Hogue, but George Frederick Middleton survived after being aboard the Cressy. I don't know much more apart from the above but it's interesting that my families were linked once again when my Father met my Mother some 50 years later.’
About Walter Charles Nelson Hall (HMS Cressy)
Walter Hall is presented by Mr Simon Dale ‘My great great Uncle Walter Charles Nelson Hall was a leading cooks mate on the Cressy. I have some postcards from him to his fiance and one of these has a picture of the Cressy on the front and another has a selection of naval vessels on the front. I would be interested in hearing more about your planned memorial next September.’
About Richard Attwater (HMS Cressy)
This was sent on behalf of the two grand daughters of Richard Attwater, Mrs Brenda Mansfield and Mrs Daphne Wiltshire. ‘We have a copy of your book and are most impressed with it and your passion for the subject. 14
Richard Attwater is my Great Grandfather. He was a Leading Stoker on the Cressy. My wife has only recently started exploring our family tree and, although we knew that my mother’s side had some naval background) we have found out that we both come from totally naval families. My mother lost her parents at the beginning of WW2 and was brought up in the Naval Orphanage in Kent. Learning of Richard Attwater (and his sad demise) has meant a lot to my mother and she is also keen to assist you with the Centenary celebrations next year. My wife will send you what she has about him, but it is not much. I am pleased to read that you have several authorities involved in the consultation for your plans.’
About Walter Henry (HMS Cressy)
Mr R. Henry presents him, but sadly does not know anything about him. This is what I have: Walter was an able seaman, 200091, RFR/CH/B/4971, Royal Navy. Age 34. Son of William Robert and Minnie Henry, of 48, Lingwood Norwich. Husband of Helen Emily Green (formerly Henry), of 9, Park Hill Rd, Oulton, Lowestoft.
About Jeremiah McCarthy (HMS Cressy)
Nigel Harris wrote me this (November 2013): ‘Hello, I have read your site with interest. My great great grandfather was Lt Cmdr Jeremiah McCarthy (torpedo) on board the Cressy, he survived that fateful day and I grew up with my grandmother, who incidently is still alive at the incredible age of 94, telling me stories about him. I think he died in the 1930s up in Newcastle. I am seeing my grandmother at the weekend and I will raise the subject with her, there is also a much younger cousin of hers i have never met him, only spoke on the phone once or twice, who is very much into this subject and together they directed me to the book by Alan Coles which to be honest I haven't read in its entirety. I will endeavour to put pen to paper when I am with her and get back to you as soon as I can sometime next week. I am very excited about this - i hope my grandmother is too! His eldest daughter, there were quite a few siblings! was my great grandmother who i did meet but I was far too young to know about this! I will send under separate cover a picture of him though i hasten to add I have no idea when it was taken.’
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About James Frederick Wootton (HMS Cressy)
Mr Nigel Wootton has done some research about James. Here it is! ‘I must tell you that I have enjoyed reading your excellent website & very much appreciate your efforts to ensure the 100th anniversary of the sinking of the three ships is commemorated in an appropriate way. I can assure you that there are three generations of Woottons - as things stand, my father, myself and my two brothers, and my son & daughter - very keen to attend the commemoration service in Chatham planned for September.
In a way, it is a shame that only now in my 60th year am I finding out more about my great grandfather, James Frederick Wootton (known as "Fred" Wootton). I recall as a small boy lingering at the war memorial in Whitstable, looking at the inscription "J.F.Wootton Royal Naval Reserve" and feeling what then seemed a rather odd sense of pride that my paternal ancestor, somebody that I would never know, had played a part and paid the ultimate price in a war fought a long, long time ago. (Of course, he died only 40 years before I was born, but at the age of 8 or 9, 10 years is an eternity.) I think it was difficult keeping Fred's name alive mainly because his children were very young when he died e.g. my grandfather,
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Fred's second Son James ("Jim"), was only around 5 years of age in 1914. This was compounded by other circumstances including the fact that Fred's wife, Alberta, died also at a very young age, as did my grandfather Jim in 1959 aged only 50 (though I can clearly remember him). Also, Jim was a prisoner-of-war from the Narvick campaign in Norway in 1940 until the cessation of hostilities in 1945, thus missing many of my father's formative years in which he could have passed on family stories & histories. So what have I found out? There are still many gaps, which I am endeavouring to fill, but here goes:
• Fred was born in Folkestone in 1885, the eldest child of William Wootton (born in Sandwich in 1864). At the time of the 1901 census, William was a 37 year old widower and a labourer at the Folkestone Gas Works. He had three other children: William (b.1889), Annie (b.1892) & Arthur (b.1896). • The 1901 census described Fred as a "mariner". Sometime between then and the 1911 census he moved to Whitstable, possibly to look for work. In any event, he was working as an oyster dredger for the Seasalter & Ham Oyster Company at the time he was mobilised in 1914. My grandfather Jim eventually worked for the rival Whitstable Oyster Company. • As an aside, I was given free entry to the Seasalter & Ham Oyster Company Museum (no longer there) around 20 years ago when I pointed out that the name of my great grandfather was on the company's roll of honour. • In 1914, Fred lived at 20 Middle Wall (now demolished), Whitstable with his wife Alberta (I am not yet sure where her initial "F" comes from) and 5 children: in order from eldest to youngest, Frederick, James, Lilian, Anne & Marjory. • A family mystery hangs over Marjory (or "Marg") because it is rumoured that Fred was not her father. We baby-boomers make a big mistake when we suppose that it was our generation that invented sex! • Following Fred's death on HMS Cressy, Alberta married again to a member of Whitstable's largest family, the Shillings, eventually bearing another son, Albert Shilling. Alberta died before she reached 40 years of age from cervical cancer. Continual child bearing must have wreaked havoc on the women of this country before the advent of modern birth control. • The final piece of information comes from a report in the Whitstable Times of 3 October 1914, which Brian Baker has kindly sent to me and, I believe, to you. The transcript details the exploits of James Rowden & Alfred Stroud in a 17ft whaler and mentions the final sighting of Fred: "When the whaler had returned with her boat load, Wootton was the sailor who threw down a rope to Rowden, who states that he never saw him again". This is very significant and most poignant as it places my great grandfather in the thick of things doing his duty at a time of great stress & fear. This simple piece of information has also put me in firm contact with an important figure from the family past, somebody who has been very indistinct until now.
My firmer picture of Fred has been helped by the fact that I believe I have identified him in a photograph. He is pictured outside of the Custom House in Gladstone Road during the call-up of the RNR In August 1914 (I think you have seen a copy of the photograph). Although I cannot be 100% certain it is him, a process of elimination, helped by a postcard published in Whitstable after the disaster & showing pictures of
17 the Cressy dead and survivors, makes me as sure as I can be that it is him. There is also the little matter that the man wearing the sailor suit could be a younger version of my father! A scanned and enlarged photograph of Fred is attached. It is not the best quality but you do get a strong sense of the man. I am guessing that he has a cigarette in his right hand.
That is all from me for the moment but I promise to write again if I do find out more about J.F.Wootton RNR.’
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About John Wright (HMS Cressy)
John Wright is presented by Mr John Wright. He has just his Navy number. This is what I have: John was an able seaman, 187388. RFR/CH/B/3267. Age 34. Son of Thomas and Matilda Wright of Holborn, London. Husband of Emily Harriett Wright, of 12, Laney Buildings, Bourne Estate, Holborn, London.
About Henry Langrish (HMS Cressy)
Mr Jim Payne wrote this: ‘Hi, I came across your site while looking for info regarding HMS CRESSY. I am researching for a book, on the lads who died in the Great War, who came from my village (Yapton West Sussex). The lad in question was Henry Langrish. I have quite a lot of information on Henry, but any extra will be usefull. Here some details on Henry Langrish. Born Holkham Cottages Yapton West Sussex, to Henry and Caroline 21/12/1888. He was the eldest of three boys. He went to school at Yapton and was probably mates to most of the Yapton Men who died in the war (33 in total). His mother was living in Coachmans Cottage at the time of his death. His young brother, Ethelbert ( Albert) served in the Army and survived the war. Ethelbert is buried in ST. Mary's Church Yapton, where Henry is Commemorated on the Memorial.’
About John James Miller (HMS Cressy)
John Miller is presented by Mrs Sharon Suter, nee Miller. She lives in New Zealand. ‘My great grandfather lost his life on the HMS Cressy. He was John James Miller, Private Ch7086, and from family stories told, he received a shrapnel wound on deck during the first torpedo explosion, going below for help. However he was still below deck when the ship took the second torpedo. He was believed to have gone down with the ship. John had served on and off in the Naval Marines since first signing up in 1892 at the age of 18. He embarked for the Boer War on the HMS Powerful, landed with the Naval Brigade attached to Kimberley Relief Force, and was present at Belmont and Graspen. On November 25th, 1899 John sustained an arm wound during the battle at Graspen and was subsequently sent home from the war on board the 'Doris'. He received the South African War Medal, and the Belmont Clasp. John later enrolled in the Royal Fleet Reserve in February 1905. He stayed with the Royal Navy until the start of WWI, and at the ripe age of 40, died serving his country, leaving behind a wife, two sons and a daughter.
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I have attached a photo of John as requested, taken in 1895, and also a photo of the Ogden's Cigarette card of the Royal Marines from the HMS Powerful taken prior to embarkation to the Boer War in 1899. We think John was in the top row in the middle (the shorter man 4th from the right.) However this has not been confirmed.
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I also have a copy of his service record, although for some reason it refuses to be emailed at this time (a different file extension perhaps?) John joined the Royal Marines early, but spent quite a lot of time at the Chatham barracks - and travelled a fair bit, to places such as South Croatia, Hong Kong and South Africa. He did rise to Corporal, but was reduced shortly afterwards. We are not sure why. He joined the HMS Cressy on August 4th, so hadn't been on her more than 6-7 weeks - right from the beginning of the war. Anyway, I have a fair bit of research on the '7th Squadron' sinking myself, as I researched it some 10-15 years ago while researching our Miller Genealogy in Forest Gate, Westham.
My Dad (Desmond James Miller) youngest son of John's eldest son James Augustus Miller passed away only 2 months ago - he was hoping to get to the commemorations, but cancer got to him first. He didn't quite make it to his own 70th birthday, only missing it by 9 hours. My mother is going to be in London August-September this year so we hope to plan for her to attend if all goes well, along with my sister and brother. I really wish I could be there myself! It was because of Great Granddads' death in the Navy that his 2 sons moved to New Zealand as part of a Government agreement for repatriation - to start new lives. They left their mother Keziah nee Males and their sister Doris 'Hetty' Miller (married Leonard Watson) and never returned. My Grandfather James never saw his mother and sister again. Anyway, a bit of Miller history.’
About Alfred Paddy (HMS Cressy)
Mrs Susan Bottrill writes me: ‘Thankyou for your very informative website. I believe my grandmother's brother, Alfred Paddy (born 6 May 1892 - he made himself 2yrs older when he enlisted)went down on the Cressy. If I find any further information on him, I will send it to you.’
I am sorry, I have not much either. Alfred was an able seaman, SS/2639. RFR/CH/B/10197. Royal Navy.
About Frank Vieland Parker (HMS Cressy)
Frank is presented by Len Parker: ‘Hi ... I am very very interested in this as my Great Grandfather was Chief Petty Officer Frank Vieland Parker who died onboard HMS Cressy. He was 39 years of age and lived in Ryde on the Isle of Wight. He was originally from Norfolk and his mother was Dutch. Tragically his son , Len Percy Parker died at Dunkirk in May 1940 , aged 28. My Dad is also named Len Parker , as am I. http://www.cwgc.org/find-war-dead/casualty/3049773/PARKER,%20FRANK%20VIELAND
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Here is some interesting information about Frank Vieland Parker , taken from a blog link about his Dutch grandfather. I have Frank's "medal" as shown in the blog. http://jnvlieland.blogspot.nl/2013/06/frank-vlieland-parker.html
Unfortunately I do not have a picture of him.’
About Percy Ernest Green (HMS Hogue)
Percy Ernest Green has been presented before by Mr Mark Sijlmans, from The Netherlands. Mr Sijlmans does research on the Dutch cemetary at Noordwijk, and Percy is one of them being buried over there. (Translation Mr F.L.)
Percy Ernest Green Seaman Royal Navy Reserve (RNR) 4171/A H.M.S. Hogue 22 september 1914, age 20
To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die * Mother
Percy is holding a toy sailing boat. He is about four or five years old. His curly hair he clearly inherited from his mother Florence who is in another picture, that was taken around 1910. They were living near the village of Wells-next-the-Sea in a little house by the seaside, called Sandpiper Cottage. This spot on the Norfolk coast, where Percy was
22 born 25 October 1894, is situated some 160 miles dead west of the northern Dutch naval base of Den Helder.
Percy’s great niece Linda writes about Sandpiper Cottage,
"They never changed the front door as when Florence waved her son goodbye her final glimpse of him was through the little diamond shape window in the door watching him walking to the quay".
Ernest, Percy’s father, followed various trades. He started out as a fisherman, and then became an innkeeper running the Lord Nelson Pub at Wells’ quayside to end up as a sack mender in 1905, after the pub failed. Apart from fishing Welss boasted one other major economic activity, the production and export of malt. The malt was transported in burlap sacks, which needed mending of course, from time to time. According to the 1911 census records Percy, at he age of sixteen, was a fisherman by occupation. On 8 February 1912 he presents himself at the Royal Navy Reserve (RNR). His Service Record states his height as 5ft10 or 1,78m. He has a fair complexion, dark brown eyes and a chest girdth of 37 inch or 94 cm. His left hand sports a tattoo that has been traced onto the record form.
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What we see here is a circle holding an intertwined anchor and arrow, the three uppermost quadrants showing the letters P, E, and G, for Percy Ernest Green.
The rest of the Service Record form contains all kinds of shipping related data, often just “Fishing.” And fishing he did mostly on the fishing boat Rose W., registration number L.N. (King’s Lynn) 132. At certain occasions fishing boats were even used to drill the RNR men.
At three different occasions Percy took part in naval exercises at Chatham. His first trip down there, presumably to fetch his RNR outfit, was probably on 16 February 1912 though this record entry is hardly legible. The second time he went to Chatham was on 14 July 1913 in order to take part in naval maneuvers on 9 August, carried out by the 7th Cruiser Squadron, including HMS Hogue. The day after the maneuvers, 10 August 1913, Percy returns home to his parents. Ultimately he left for Chatham again to board HMS Hogue on a Sunday, the 2nd of August 1914, followed by the eyes of his mother through that “diamond shaped window” in the front door. The previous day Germany had declared war on Russia, followed by their declaration of war on France the day after Percy’s arrival in Chatham, and finally on the 4th of August 1914 Great Britain declared war on Germany. The consequences of all these events are very curtly summarized on the form. In a preprinted box headed “Finally disposed of” it is stamped “Missing from H.M.S. Hogue sunk by torpedo 22nd September 1914”. Only the vessel’s name and the date were still to be completed by hand, which must have been quite convenient for the admiralty officials. However, it didn’t quite tally with the facts. Percy was not “missing”. Indeed, of all the 1,459 men that perished he was one of the few who hadn’t actually gone missing.
The Master of SS Flora reports
“Captain Voorham is one of those intrepid seamen who are keeping up the reputation of the Dutch sailors. Unpretending, in the hour of danger he has found to be a most courageous and determined man. (…)
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‘Among the seamen that were rescued are two British physicians who tried to help the victims as much as possible. Nonetheless, one of the men died on board my ship, although they had tried artificial respiration for at least an hour’ ”.
De Telegraaf , Dutch daily newspaper, 23 September 1914
The patient who underwent artificial respiration for an hour was Percy. He doesn’t have a name yet in this early article, but this would be different in a subsequent item in the same journal, the next day,
SS Flora, flag flown at half-mast, by the quay-side, IJmuiden , September 1914
Burial of a British soldier
From IJmuiden it is reported,
“Today, Thursday morning by noon the funeral will take place of the British soldier named P. Green who died aboard SS Flora, about whom no further specifications are known as yet. Mr. Green will be buried with military honours. Apart from local authorities the ceremony will be attended by the British Clergyman Rev Chambers from Amsterdam “.
De Telegraaf, 24 September
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The observation in the quoted article that no further specifications regarding the deceased’s identity are known, can easily be explained. Many hundreds of crew members were drowned and the survivors had been brought to land on a number of different vessels. SS Flora sailed to IJmuiden, ss Titan moored at Hoek van Holland and then there were still many other men, picked up or changed to British warships, who had been taken to Harwich. There wasn’t much of a chance of encountering someone there on that moment that had met reservist Green in his lifetime.
Another daily newspaper, De Tilburgse Courant, in its edition of 24 Deptember also mentions Percy,
Report from IJmuiden
“Yesterday afternoon the Minister of the Crown for Naval Affairs quite unexpectedly paid a visit to the local Red Cross facility where currently 21 sick and wounded patients are being looked after. It was a short visit during which the local commander, Naval Captain Van Stockum, briefed the minister.
An accurate count now reveals that the total number of men that were rescued and landed here amounts to 289, not including the soldier P. Green who died on board ss Flora, about whom particulars about his rank and ship’s name are still lacking.
The British couldn’t complain about lack of interest; all day long an endless queue of very important, important and ordinary visitors who came either by their private cars, by train or on their bicycles paid a call to the Red Cross hospital, and caring hands handed out innumerable snacks and tidbits”.
At that moment the Tilburg newspaper makes no mention of the fact that by then Percy is already buried, as is revealed in an article that appeared in Het Algemeen Handelsblad of the same day,
Funeral British Seaman
“Today in IJmuiden, the funeral took place of the British seaman Green who was a crewmember of the cruiser “Hogue” that was sent to the bottom. The coffin, covered by the Union Flag and decorated with flowers, was carried from the mortuary and made a stop in front of the British Vice-Consul’s residence, where the cortège was lined up. Walking in front were two drummers carrying muffled drums and a sergeant-piper of the Royal Dutch Navy, followed by a so-called firing squad consisting of six armed marines and their commanding officer.
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Behind the hearse came a dozen unarmed seamen and an equal number of unarmed infantrymen belonging to the 10th Infantry Regiment quartered in IJmuiden, as well as other deputations of that regiment, of the Royal Dutch Navy and of the Armoured Artillery.
The funeral carriage itself was surrounded by four unarmed seamen, acting as pallbearers. Seated in the two funeral coaches that came behind were the Vice Consul of Great Britain, Mr Reigersborg, Rev Chambers of the English Church in Amsterdam, Naval officer 2nd Class Mr Jas, 2nd Lieutenant of the Artillery Mr Burgers, the latter two on behalf of the local army commander, the North Sea Canal harbourmaster, the head of the local Red Cross Committee Dr Van der Horst, the Old Catholic parish priest Rev Van de Pol, and Rev Huizing, minister of the Dutch Reformed Church.
The funeral procession, commanded by lieutenant commander Greve, who also was in charge of the funeral ceremony at the cemetery, set off and passed by the Red Cross and the White Cross buildings. At the cemetery entrance the firing squad volleyed once, whereupon the coffin was carried to the open grave. There, the English vicar read a chapter from the Bible, and after that funeral orations were held by Rev Van der Horst, rev Huizing, and lieutenant commander Greve who, on behalf of the Royal Dutch Navy, gave his speech in English.
After the speech of thanks by the Vice Consul on behalf of the British Government, lieutenant commander Greve closed the ceremony with a word of gratitude on behalf of the family.
Before, some of the officers and men had thrown a few scoopfuls of ground onto the coffin and the firing squad had loosed of the habitual salvo”.
We do not know whether at that time Percy’s parents had already been informed about Percy’s demise. However, according to one of the other family members, a daughter to Percy’s sister, a niece of his who is still alive, there ought to be a letter sent by a Dutch physician and addressed to Florence, Percy’s mother.
The weather on the day of the funeral
“Thermometer and forecast
Outlook till the evening of 25 September: wind easterly to southerly, calm to moderate, sky hazy becoming dull, dry weather, possibility of ground frost, daytime temperatures unchanged (18º Centigrade, 64,4ºF)”
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About William Wright (HMS Hogue)
Mr Paul Bendall did some investigation after William Wright. ‘Hello, I have found out about the society from a questions page in the Daily Mail regarding the U-boat captain who sank three British light cruisers off the Dutch coast. My great grandfather, William Wright from Nottingham, was on HMS Hogue when it was sunk, I believe he was a stoker. He was also on HMS Barham in 1919. I can remember him from when I was little, he died in 1968. There was a picture of HMS Hogue on his living room wall which is now proudly hanging in my hallway. I am not sure how he was rescued, he could not swim; I will have to ask my great aunt. I would be pleased if you could send me information about joining the society and anything further you may know about my great grandfather.
I have spoken to my Aunt and she has given me a more accurate description of events as well as she can remember them. I have also got a copy of his Naval record. William Wright number K10699, date of birth 29/11/1892, place of birth Redford Nottingham. Joined the Navy on the 28/3/1911 and was at Portsmouth shorebase HMS Victory II as a stoker 2nd class until 22/4/1911. 23/4/1911 until the 10/6/1911 HMS Renown, stoker training ship. Stoker 2nd class 11/6/1911 until the 31/12/1911 HMS Victory II. Stoker 2nd class 1/1/1912 until the 14/3/1912 HMS Jupiter gunnery training ship. Stoker 2nd class 15/3/1912 until the 18/3/1912 HMS Victory II Stoker 2nd class 19/3/1912 until the 12/6/1912 HMS Duke of Edinburgh Stoker 2nd class 13/61912 until the 2/3/1914 HMS Duke of Edinburgh Stoker 1st class 3/3/1914 until the 31/7/1914 HMS Victory II Stoker 1st class 1/8/1914 until the 22/9/1914 HMS Hogue Stoker 1st class 23/9/1914 until the 18/8/1915 HMS Victory II Stoker 1st class 19/8/1915 until the 24/7/1918 HMS Barham Stoker 1st class 25/7/1918 until the 2/4/1919 HMS Barham Acting leading stoker 3/4/1919 until the 31/3/1920 HMS Barham Leading stoker
After the Hogue was sunk he swam to the Cressy after that he was in the water for some time before being picked up by a Dutch trawler. I do not know which trawler picked him up or if he was taken to Holland, he was not injured. I do not know if there is any way to find out if he was on the Flora or on the Titan and was transferred to HMS Lucifer. He was the only survivor from Nottingham and when John Dane Player (Players tobacco company of Nottingham) heard he had a photograph commissioned which is hanging in my Great Aunts hallway. His next ship after the Hogue was the new battleship Barham, which was the 5th battle squadrons flag ship based at Scapa Flow. It was on this ship that he saw action in the battle of Jutland. I have also included some pictures of him.
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He is the one seated at the front 3rd from the left. Not sure when this photo was taken.
He is the one standing at the back 1st on the left. Not sure when this was taken.
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About John Brading (HMS Hogue)
Mr John Matthews writes about his grandfather:
John Brading (1869 – 1938)
‘John Brading was my grandfather and what I know of him is through my mother. I never knew John as he died in 1938, seven years before I was born. My mother, Ena Matthews died in 1970. Apprentice to a Blacksmith, John was not always paid due to the Blacksmiths drinking habits. On finishing the apprenticeship he left the Blacksmiths to join the Royal Navy. He travelled the world visiting glamorous places in the Pacific Ocean such as Tahiti. A cupboard at home contained numerous fishing reels, rods and lines, together with a number of swordfish swords, of different shapes and sizes, trophies from his time abroad. Many years later, and with a world war looming, he spent the summer of 1914 on the south coast of England constantly swimming as practice, least his ship be sunk. He also memorised escape routes through the ship on which he was serving, in the event of the ship turning over. At the time of the war John would have been 45 years of age. John was on the Hogue when torpedoed. He was rescued by the Cressy only to be shipwrecked a second time. All three ships were sunk within an hour. The Hogue Survivors List shows:- "Brading, John, Chief Armourer (Pens) 160478, Slightly Injured". John hit the bilge keel whilst jumping off the side of one of the ships and damaged his legs/pelvis. According to his daughter Ena, he was in the water for 9 hours holding on to drift wood, whilst singing the hymn "Fight the good fight with all thy might" to maintain morale. Later, after rescue, his wife walked straight past him in the hospital, not recognising him. His hair had turned completely white due to the shock. During the war years the family home for John, Flora (John’s second wife), Bert (son from John’s first wife ) and Ena (my mother) was in Gillingham. Subsequently they moved to Edwin Road, Rainham living initially in a shed at the bottom of the garden whilst a bungalow was built. Flora Brading (nee Flora Coffin) was from the Isle of Wight, and John met her at a party in 1900 celebrating the Relief of Mafeking. Flora died in 1932 aged 58 and John in 1938 aged 69.
John Matthews
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About Glen Kidston (HMS Hogue)
Glen Kidston was a cadet aboard HMS Hogue and he survived. Glen became rather famous afterwards. He is on Wikipedia and on the Kidson website. You can find some great photo’s and an amazing story of his life. www.kidston.com
About Lt Lanty Ingham (HMS Hogue)
Mr Jim Hodder sends the story written by Lt Inham himself! ‘My grandfather, Lt LG Ingham was Gunnery Officer on board the Hogue when she went down on September 22nd 1914. Fortunately, he was picked up by the Flora and lived to tell the tale. He was one of two officers (Lt “Nyham” on p150 of your book) who was kindly put up at Mr Cremer’s home near Ymuiden. He made it back to England a few days later and wrote up his account. I have typed this up and attach herewith. I thought you might find this of interest’.
I have also read your book – “The Live Bait Squadron” and visited your website with interest. I note that my grandfather’s account resembles closely that of others you describe in the book.
Sinking of Aboukir, Hogue and Cressy 22 September 1914
We were on patrol off the coast of Holland. Normally the patrol included a destroyer flotilla, but on Sept.22nd, owing to recent bad weather which had driven them into the harbour, they were on their way out to rejoin. During the previous night we had been closed by a pilot vessel which made weird signs by flashing. Nothing was done about it.
At the time of the attack the 3 ships were spread. We were rather expecting to see mines, as we were to the South East of a minefield, and a Nor*wester had been blowing. I personally turned in at 5.30, and was awoken at 6.30 by a lot of noise outside my cabin. Hands were usually turned out at 7. I put on a coat and went out and asked what the buzz was, and was told that the Aboukir had struck a mine. I went on deck, and found that we had closed the Aboukir, who was heeled over and sinking slowly. Boats were manned and main derrick was being worked to hoist out the boom boats. The boats were then sent away and the order was then passed to get all available wood ready for going over the side. This was done and ladders and rope ends were then passed over the side ready for the Aboukir’s men. I went round to see that these ladders and things were ready. So far nobody had really thought seriously of submarines, although extra lookouts etc. had been placed. I had got as far as the Quarter Deck when we were hit – apparently the Starboard side of the Quarter Deck. Two explosions occurred one after the other. There were 2 torpedoes, and one must have made the hole while the other must have burst inside.
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I was pushed across the deck under the guns by the water. I went forward. Ship sinking fast. There was never any doubt about our fate. I went aft again, quarter deck awash, and shortly afterwards went over the side and got a piece of wood and got clear of the ship. She went down very shortly afterwards (in about 7 mins). The Cressy then began to open fire and by cheers indicated that she thought she had sunk a submarine. Shortly afterwards she was hit, the torpedo passing underneath some of our fellows in the water. She heeled over then stopped. She was then torpedoed again, turned turtle, remaining in this position for some minutes before sinking.
After being about ½ an hour in the water I got aboard one of our steamboats which had floated off the ship as she sank and which was practically empty. She gradually filled up with men. We lit the fire and started to raise steam and incidentally got warm. We then found that our propeller was foul. But by this time the Flora, a Dutch tramp, had closed us, and after about 2 ½ hours in the steamboat we got aboard her. The flotilla came up at this time, and we nearly got aboard a destroyer, but as 2 submarines appeared at this moment our Captain sent her off to chase them and refused to allow any more transporting to be done. This rather frightened the skipper of the Flora who then refused to take us to England, and set off for Holland. We signalled to the destroyer telling her if possible to come after us and take us off. However she never appeared. There were about 23 officers and 200 men aboard the Flora. Among the officers were 2 of the Hogue’s who could not swim and went down with the ship, came up again and got hold of bits of wood. Also the Engineer Commander who had one leg broken and one dislocated and who had gone down with the ship, come up again and clung on to bits of wood. We reached Ymuiden about 4p.m. We fed on the way on whatever we could sneak from the Flora’s larder, which included Dutch cheese and schnapps, and one or two of the more naked were clothed as far as was possible. We disembarked at Ymuiden and paraded through the streets as we were – self in pyjamas and one shoe – and were eventually billetted off for the night. I was sent with one of the midshipmen (Pleydell-Bouverie) and about 40 men to the house of one Mr Cremer, a millionaire (!), who lived about 2 or 3 miles off, where we existed on the fat of the land, but unfortunately had to leave at 7.45 next morning. Mrs Cremer being an Englishwoman we felt quite at home.
Next morning the sailors were clothed in Dutch sailors rig and we left about 9.15 by train for Amsterdam. On arrival at Amsterdam, we were sent on to the internment camp in Gaasterland – a district in Friesland. We finished our train journey about 4.15. Had ¾ of an hour in a steam train, and then a march. We eventually fetched about 8.40. and the march seemed to have been quite 16 miles. It couldn’t have been more than 12. The men went to a Camp, and were under canvas. The officers had their meals at a pub about 2 miles off, and slept that night in a neighbouring farm, packed somewhat tight. Next day (Thursday) we were told off for separate farms – two to a room – and were very well looked after. Everything beautifully clean. In the evening we got the joyful news that we were at liberty and the guests of the Dutch government. We did not leave till Saturday morning, and passed Friday in a state of uncertainty as to when we should leave. We left about 9 on Saturday and returned the way we came, eventually going by train to Flushing, which we reached about 11 p.m. and went straight on board the boat which left next morning and took us to Sheerness.
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The Dutch people seemed very friendly indeed, and all the school children and so forth had a habit of turning out and cheering us at the places we passed through. During the train journey we were met at the stations by various kindly residents who supplied us with fruit, cigars and what nots. The weather in Gaasterland was lovely while we were there, but it must be extremely damp in winter time. It is surrounded by lakes and intersected by canals in all directions, and extremely flat. They did not intend to keep us there during the winter. The roads are quite good and all the people go about on bicycles. The people all seemed very well to do, and there appeared to be no poverty. L.G.Ingham
(LGI was Gunnery Lieutenant in the Hogue. Queen Wilhelmina sent a present of tobacco to each sailor and a box of cigars to each officer; the cigar-box, and the Dutch sailor’s shirt that he was given, remained as souvenirs in the family for many years.)
My grandfather carried on with the Navy through the war and served on the Caroline (I think at the Battle of Jutland, but not absolutely sure) and later the Queen Elizabeth (see attached photo of him being presented to King George V on board in 1922). He later spent time in Hong Kong and South Africa and eventually left the Navy in 1934.
About Tom Bellerby (HMS Hogue)
Mrs Lesley Vingoe sends me a marvellous emailexchange
‘My grandfather, PO Tom Bellerby, 187039, went down with the Hogue. Two days later (24th) my mother, Jessie Kathleen Bellerby, was born. PO Bellerby already had a son Tom. It is impossible to imagine the terrible time my grandmother, Florence, must have gone through. Waiting for news of survivors and then the birth of a daughter with the knowledge that she was a widow. Until her death in 1997 my mother treasured the memory of the father she had never known and a photo of him in a silver frame always stood on the bookcase, with a Remembrance poppy attached. Inevitabley my sister and I grew up well versed in the story of our grandfather's death and the sacrifice he had made for his country.
Please find attached herewith various items relevant to my grandfather, Tom Bellerby, who was lost in the sinking of HMS HOGUE.
I possess a number of other documents relating to him, including a Certificate of Identity/Naval Gratuity for which his widow was awarded £3 in respect of his good conduct. Various letters re pension in particular one dated 30.13.1918 whereby she was awarded an alternative pension of 29s.2d. a week in lieu of her widow's pension of 16s.3d. and allowance for 2 children of 11s.8d. a week. Unfortunately too large to photo-copy is a Certificate of Seamen's Wills dated 22nd June, 1915, which grants £5.5.0. for compension for loss of effects, additional compensionation of £2.15.2, residue of wages £4.2.3, prize bounty HMS HOGUE, Heligoland Bight action 28.8.14, war gratuity £8.0.0., Naval prize fund £20 and Naval prize fund final £30.
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Tom Bellerby was born in Hull on 25th August, 1878, of what would appear to be a long standing east Yorkshire family. He married Florence May Holt on 5th October, 1910, when he was serving on HMS INFLEXIBLE as a leading seaman (?). Around 1912 they had a son, also named Thomas. Sometime after their marriage they moved to Gillingham in Kent (the HOGUE was a Chatham ship).
Two days after the HOGUE was sunk Florence gave birth to my mother, Jessie Kathleen. My grandmother never remarried a lived most of her life in Regent Road, Gillingham. As PO Bellerby had been a Freemason, the Masons paid for the education of both children in local grammar schools.
When my mother died I became keeper of the family papers and photos and have enjoyed looking through them to provide the above information. As a result I have retrieved the sadly neglected photo of my grandfather in its silver frame, cleaned it and it now stands (as it did in my mother's and grandmother's time) in a place of honor in my lounge.
Just putting my papers away when I found the attached hidden in the bottom of the file. Obviously a letter from PO Bellerby to his son Tom who would have been a baby at the time it was sent. I do not for one minute think that he composed it, but it is nonetheless very poignant.
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