South Queensferry War Memorial

Home , Abercorn, Cramond, Kirkliston, Leith, South Queensferry

World War One Panel on the Jubilee Clock Tower, High Street, South Queensferry.

We believe that we have correctly identified all but two of the men on the memorial. The two in question are John McLean and George T Stewart. Please email [email protected] if you can help to identify them.

Private Louis Alfred Anderson, 2nd Royal Scots, born at South Queensferry in 1884, was the youngest son of Robert Anderson, a Licensed Grocer, and Catherine Marshall Anderson, of Bellstane, High Street, South Queensferry.

His siblings were Peter, Catherine, Robert, George, John, Lily and David. Robert became a Solicitor and David became a Medical Practitioner.

He was educated at George Heriot’s School in Edinburgh from 1897 to 1898, then enlisted in the Royal Scots at Edinburgh as a Regular soldier on 21 August 1906. After serving in the 1st Royal Scots in India from 16 February 1907 until 30 January 1913, he was transferred to the Army Reserve on 2 February 1913. He then emigrated to Australia where he was employed as a Clerk before being mobilized on 19 December 1914 whilst in New South Wales. After returning to the UK he was posted to the 2nd Royal Scots, entering France as a theatre of war on 4 January 1915.

He was killed in action on 28 April 1915, age 31, and is buried in Kemmel Chateau Military Cemetery. He was mentioned in a biographical note in The Linlithgow Gazette on 21 May 1915.

Private William Adie Bain, 1st Gordon Highlanders, born at South Queensferry in 1896, was the younger son of William Adie Bain, a Baker and then Life Insurance Agent, and Jane Bain, of 6 Catherine Terrace, South Queensferry, then 15 East Terrace, South Queensferry

His siblings were James, Margaret, Jane, Martha, Christina and Grace..

Before enlisting in August 1914 at Lochgelly in Fife, he was employed as a Weaver in a Linen Factory.

After entering France as a theatre of war on 17 December 1914, he was wounded at the Battle of Loos on 25 September 1915 and wrongly reported killed at that time.

He was killed in action on 2 March 1916, age 20 (the Commonwealth War Graves Commission website wrongly states 1915), and is commemorated on the Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial. He was mentioned in The Linlithgow Gazette on 17 March 1916 and 24 March 1916, a biographical note in The Scotsman on 16 March 1916, and a death note in The Edinburgh Evening News on 2 March 1918. He is remembered on the South Queensferry Memorial.

Private Alexander Begbie, 9th Royal Scots, born at Abercorn in 1898, was the elder son of Alexander Begbie, a Ploughman, and Mary Findlay Begbie, of 9 The Loan, South Queensferry.

His siblings were Hugh, Mary and Allan.

After enlisting at South Queensferry, he served initially in 2/10th Royal Scots, being later posted to “A” Company of the 9th Royal Scots. According to the Linlithgow Gazette on 8 September 1916, he was wrongly reported missing during the Battle of the Somme whilst attached to the Royal Scots Fusiliers.

He was killed in action on 21 April 1917, age 19, during the Battle of Arras and is commemorated on the Arras Memorial, Pas-de-Calais, France. He was mentioned in articles in the West Lothian Courier on 18 May 1917, in a casualty list covering four columns in The Scotsman on 26 May 1917, and a biographical note and death notices in The Edinburgh Evening News on 16 May 1917 and 20 April 1918.

Private James Findlay Campbell, Army Cyclist Corps (formerly Royal Scots), born at Dalmeny in 1896, was the son of William Campbell, a Shale Miner, and Marion Campbell, of 9 The Loan, South Queensferry.

His siblings were Jessie and Isabella.

Before enlisting at Kirkliston on 1 December 1913, he was employed as a Shale Miner. Initially he served as the 1st/10th Royal Scots (Cyclist Battalion), then transferred and served in the 52nd Lowland Division, Army Cyclist Corps.

He died of wounds on 12 June 1917, age 21, and is buried in Deir El Belah War Cemetery. He was mentioned in the Linlithgow Gazette on 22 June 1917, the West

Copyright 2014 © Garry A Ketchen and Alistair McEwen Lothian Courier on 29 June 1917, a casualty list in The Scotsman on 28 June 1917, and a death notice in The Edinburgh Evening News on 20 April 1918.

Private Melville Christie, 2nd King's Own Scottish Borderers, born at Leith in 1887, was the second son of Samuel Christie, a Slater, and Eliza Christie, of The Vennel, South Queensferry, then Hawthorn Bank, South Queensferry.

His siblings were William, Alexandrina, Robert, Melvina, and George.

He was the husband of Euphemia Leishman Hutton of Bathgate.

Before enlisting at Bathgate, he was employed as a Confectionary Van Salesman. He served as a Trumpeter in the Lothian and Borders Horse before being transferred and serving as a Private in the Royal Scots and finally in the 2nd King’s Own Scottish Borderers.

He was killed in action on 7 November 1917, age 30, after being hit by a shell whilst he and four others were trying to free a half buried colleague. He is commemorated on the Tyne Cot Memorial, Zonnebeke, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium and was mentioned in the Linlithgow Gazette on 30 November 1917, and the Edinburgh Evening Despatch on 28 November 1917.

Private Patrick Connelly (Connolly on the memorial), 1st/10th Royal Scots attached Royal Scots Fusiliers, born at Broxburn in 1895, was the only son of Patrick Connelly, a Shale Miner, and Annie O'Donnell Connelly, 9 Back Row, Dalmeny.

Before enlisting he was employed as a Shale Miner and lodged at 12 Catherine Terrace, South Queensferry.

He died of disease on 21 August 1916, age 21, and is buried in Daours Communal Cemetery Extension. He was mentioned in a casualty list in The Scotsman on 18 September 1916.

Private Harold Crawford, 11th Royal Scots, born at Devonport in 1895, was the third son of Charles Crawford, the Master of a Devonport harbour dredger, and Esther Crawford, of 19 Richmond Street, Southampton, and Lilybank House, South Queensferry.

His siblings were Charles, Richard, Frances, Winifred, Rose and Ethel.

Before enlisting at Edinburgh, he was employed by Messrs Topham, Jones and Railton and was a well known vocalist. He served in the 11th Royal Scots, entering France as a theatre of war on 11 May 1915.

He received a gunshot wound to his chest, died of his wounds at Colchester on 23 October 1915, age 19, and is buried in Colchester Cemetery, Colchester, Essex. He was mentioned in the Linlithgow Gazette on 8 October 1915, and a casualty list in The Scotsman on 25 October 1915.

Copyright 2014 © Garry A Ketchen and Alistair McEwen Second Corporal James Davidson, 1/1st City of Edinburgh Field Company, Royal Engineers, born at Muiravonside in 1892, was the son of John Davidson, a Colliery Winding Engineman, and Isabella Davidson, of 24 Dechmont, Uphall, then 21 Clark Place, South Queensferry.

His siblings were Mary and John.

Before enlisting at Edinburgh on 24 November 1914, he was employed as a Bricklayer, then served as a Sapper in the 1/1st City of Edinburgh Field Company, Royal Engineers. He was appointed Lance Corporal on 19 June 1915, then Acting 2nd Corporal on 7 August 1915, entered Egypt as a theatre of war on 5 January 1916, then was posted to France on 17 April 1916.

He received a gunshot wound on 20 September 1916, died of wounds on 24 September 1916, age 26, and is buried in St Sever Cemetery, Rouen, Seine- Maritime, France.

Private Thomas Hope Duncan, 9th Black Watch, born at Kirkliston in 1899, was the second son of William Duncan, a Builder, and Margaret Duncan, of Plewlands House, South Queensferry.

His siblings were Peter and Ebenezer

Before enlisting at Kirkliston, he was employed as a Labourer by his father and also served in the 1/10th Royal Scots prior to war. He initially served in the Seaforth Highlanders, entering France as a theatre of war during February 1918, then transferred to the 9th Black Watch.

He was killed in action on 28 March 1918, age 19, and is commemorated on the Arras Memorial, Arras, Pas-de-Calais, France. He was mentioned in the Linlithgow Gazette on 7 June 1918, the West Lothian Courier on 5 July 1918, and a casualty list in The Scotsman on 28 June 1918.

Private George Charles Earl (or Earle), 11th Royal Scots, born at Leith in 1883, was the son of Thomas Earl, a Painter, and Elizabeth Earl, of 10 Clark Place, South Queensferry.

His siblings were Charles, Elizabeth and John.

On 14 March 1903, he married Christina Hardie Rintoul and their children were Jessie, Albert, George, Gibson, William and Charles. They lived at 10 Clark Place, South Queensferry, and 11 Hopetoun Road, South Queensferry, then after his death, his widow lived at 18 Ferrier Street, Leith.

He had served for five months in the 3rd Volunteer Service Company, Royal Scots, enlisting at Edinburgh on 10 February 1902, then proceeding to South Africa on 24 February 1902, before being discharged on 14 July 1902 at the end of the Boer War.

Copyright 2014 © Garry A Ketchen and Alistair McEwen Before re-enlisting at Glencorse on 14 September 1914, he was employed as a Postman then a Shale Miner. He served in the 2nd Royal Scots, entering France as a theatre of war on 4 January 1915.

He was posted back to the UK on 6 March 1916 suffering from the effects of trench foot, returned to the front and was posted to the 11th Royal Scots on 2 August 1916.

After receiving multiple gunshot wounds, he died of wounds in No 45 Casualty Clearing Station on 23 October 1916, age 33, and is buried in Dernancourt Communal Cemetery Extension, Somme, France. He was mentioned in the Linlithgow Gazette on 3 November 1916, the West Lothian Courier on 17 March 1916 and 3 November 1916, and a casualty list in The Scotsman on 9 December 1916.

Sapper Thomas Fairley, 250th Tunnelling Company, Royal Engineers, born at South Queensferry in 1881, was the youngest son of William Fairley, a Fisherman, and Janet Fairley, of Church Place, South Queensferry.

His siblings were James, Alexander, Margaret, William, Barbara, Mary and Elizabeth

Before re-enlisting at Newhaven in Sussex on 26 August 1914, he was employed as a Shale Miner and had served in the 8th Royal Scots prior to war. He initially served as a Private in the 7th Battalion Royal Sussex Regiment, entering France as a theatre of war on 1 June 1915. He was transferred on 1 February 1916 and served as a Sapper in the 180th Company Royal Engineers. He was gassed on 9 June 1916, was hospitalised until 17 July 1916, and then posted to the 250th Tunnelling Company, Royal Engineers on 13 February 1917.

He died of wounds received in action on 2 November 1917, age 36, and is buried in Outtersteene Communal Cemetery Extension, Bailleul, Nord, France.

Private Robert Ford, 2nd King’s Own Scottish Borderers, born at South Queensferry in 1886, was the son of George Ford, and Isabella Ford, of Brewery Close, South Queensferry.

His siblings were Charles, Joan, George, William, Mary and John.

His widow was Alice Eva Ford, of 19 Sealscraig, South Queensferry,

Before enlisting, he was employed as a Waiter in the Queensferry Arms Hotel, and had served in the 8th Royal Scots Volunteer Battalion. At the outbreak of war he enlisted at Kirkliston and served as a Private in the 1st King’s Own Scottish Borderers, entering the Balkans as a theatre of war on 9 May 1915 and being wounded in the leg whilst fighting in Gallipoli. He was later posted to the 2nd King’s Own Scottish Borderers

He died of pneumonia on 26 January 1917, age 31, and is buried in Bethune Town Cemetery, Pas-de-Calais, France. He was mentioned in the Linlithgow Gazette on 9 February 1917, the West Lothian Courier on 9 February 1917, 16 February 1917 and 2 March 1917 and a casualty list in The Scotsman on 23 February 1917.

Private David Fossett (Fosset), 1st Black Watch, born at South Queensferry in 1896, was the youngest son of Robert Fossett, a Shale Miner, and Catherine McArthur Fossett, of Brown's Close, South Queensferry.

His siblings were John, Margaret and Robert. Initially serving as a Private in the Royal Warwickshire Regiment, he was wounded in 1916, and later transferred and served in the 1st Black Watch.

He died of a gunshot wound to the head at The Fort, Allahabad, on 20 November 1921, age 25, and is buried at Allahabad. He was mentioned in the West Lothian Courier on 6 October 1916, and a casualty list in The Scotsman on 2 October 1916.

Private Robert Fossett (Fosset), DCM, 7th Company, Machine Gun Corps (Infantry), born at South Queensferry in 1889, was the second son of Robert Fossett, a Shale Miner, and Catherine Fossett, of Brown's Close, South Queensferry.

His siblings were John, Margaret and David.

After enlisting at Edinburgh, he initially served as a Private in the 2nd Black Watch, entering France as a theatre of war on 12 October 1914. He was transferred on 1 December 1916 and served in the 7th Company, Machine Gun Corps (Infantry).

The citation for his Distinguished Conduct Medal read, "For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. He rescued a wounded man under very heavy fire, displaying great courage and determination".

He died on 24 October 1918, age 30, and is buried in Beirut War Cemetery, Lebanese Republic. He was mentioned in a casualty list in The Scotsman on 4 December 1918.

Sergeant Mounsey Robert Gardner, 13th Royal Scots, born at Morecambe in 1886, was the elder son of Edward Gardner, a Fisherman, and Elizabeth Jane Gardner, of 34 Clark Street, Morecambe.

His siblings were Ethel and Edward.

He married Rebecca Silloth on 7 November 1906, they had two children, Hilda and Edward, and lived at 4 Forth Terrace, Dalmeny, then 5 Stewart Terrace, South Queensferry.

Before enlisting at Edinburgh on 17 November 1914, he was employed as a Merchant Seaman (Mate). He served as a Private [qualified signaller] in “B” Company of the 13th Royal Scots, entering France as a theatre of war on 9 July 1915. He was appointed Lance Corporal on 18 July 1915, promoted Corporal on 17 June 1916 and then Sergeant on 15 September 1916.

On 23 April 1917, he received a gunshot wound (ankle) during the Battle of Arras, was sent to No 4 General Hospital on 24 April 1917, and returned to the UK where he was attached to the Royal Scots Depot.

He died suddenly of wounds in Edmonton General Military Hospital on 30 January 1918, aged 32, and is buried in Morecambe and Heysham (Morecambe) Cemetery, Lancashire. He was mentioned in casualty lists in The Scotsman on 24 May 1917 and 8 April 1918.

After his death, the following items were returned to his wife - pins, penknife, scissors, disc, pouch, wallet, photo, letters, book, ring, watch, handkerchief.

Private Daniel Robertson Gibson, 2nd Royal Scots, was the youngest son of Daniel Robertson Gibson, a Cooper, and Margaret Wilkie Clinton Gibson, of Glebe Street, Falkirk. After his father's death, his mother married Henry Ross, a Coach Wheeler, of Cockburn Street, Falkirk.

His siblings were David, Peter and Jane.

Before enlisting at Glencorse on 23 August 1899 as a Regular soldier, he was employed as a Grocer's Assistant. he served in the South African War, and at Nagpur in 1904, he was awarded the Certificate for Military Telegraphy.

After being posted to Reserve on 11 December 1907, he re-joined the 3rd Royal Scots on 23 August 1911. He was employed as a Grocer in the Co-operative Society at South Queensferry, lodging at Viewforth House, South Queensferry, with Mrs Elizabeth Roberts and her daughter, Margaret, who was a Bootmaker Shopkeeper.

On the outbreak of war, he was mobilised on 5 August 1914 at Glencorse and posted to the 2nd Royal Scots, entering France as a theatre of war on 7 September 1914.

He died on 31 October 1914, age 33, at No 10 General Hospital, St Omer, of tetanus following fracture wounds to his right arm, and is buried in Longuenesse (St Omer) Souvenir Cemetery, Pas-de-Calais, France.

On 23 March 1915, letters and postcards were returned to Margaret Roberts at 13 Church Place, South Queensferry.

He was mentioned in the Edinburgh Evening News on 12 November 1914, the West Lothian Courier on 13 November 1914, a death notice and biographical note in The Scotsman on 12 November 1914 and De Ruvigny’s Roll of Honour 1914-18.

Private James Henderson Grieve, 13th Royal Scots, born at Dunbar in 1877, was the second son of Peter Grieve, a Papermaker, and Janet Henderson Grieve, of 13 Paterson Terrace, Dunbar, and, after Peter Grieve's death, of New Halls Cottages, South Queensferry.

His siblings were George, Marion, David, Thomas and Robert.

Before enlisting at South Queensferry on 11 December 1915, he was employed as a Shale Miner. He served as a Private in the 2nd Garrison Battalion, Royal Scots, was posted to the 3rd Royal Scots on 6 January 1917 and then the 11th Royal Scots on 9

He was killed in action on 31 July 1917, age 41, and is commemorated on the Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium. He was mentioned in the Linlithgow Gazette on 17 August 1917, the West Lothian Courier on 28 September 1917, and a casualty list in The Scotsman on 11 September 1917.

Private Alfred Cornelius Hunter, 1st King’s Own Scottish Borderers, born at Leith in 1884, was the fourth son of Henry Hunter, a Ship Manager, and Charlotte McWilliams Hunter, of 93 Kirkgate, Leith.

His siblings were John, Marmion, Henry, David and Violet

He married Elizabeth Morrison McKenzie Levin on 17 January 1905 at the Queens Hotel, Leith, and they had two sons, George Olaf and Henry. After his death, his widow lived at 17 Buchanan Street, Leith.

He had relatives in South Queensferry, was employed as a Labourer in a Saw Mill, and enlisted at Kirkliston, serving as a Private in “A” Company of the 1st King’s Own Scottish Borderers and entering the Balkans as a theatre of war on 2 August 1915.

He died of wounds on 14 October 1917, age 33, and is buried in Dozinghem Military Cemetery, Poperinge, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium.

Private George Souter Kerr, 1st King’s Own Scottish Borderers, born at Leith in 1889, was the younger son of Thomas Kerr, a Forth Bridge Rigger, and Jemima Kerr, of Clark Place, South Queensferry.

His siblings were George, Elizabeth, Jemima and Isabella.

His widow, Margaret Kerr, and daughter, Mary, lived at 6 Clark Pace, South Queensferry. After the war, his widow remarried, becoming Margaret Bannister, of 19 Brearley Street, Beckitt Street, Leeds.

Before enlisting at Edinburgh, he was employed as a Shale Miner, the served as a Private in the 1st King’s Own Scottish Borderers, entering the Balkans as a theatre of war on 31 July 1915.

He died at sea, age 25, in the sinking of HM Transport Royal Edward on 13 August 1915, and is commemorated on the Helles Memorial, Turkey. He was was mentioned in the Linlithgow Gazette on 10 September 1915.

On 28 July 1915, Royal Edward embarked 1,367 officers and men at Avonmouth. The majority were reinforcements for the British 29th Infantry, with members of the Royal Army Medical Corps. All were destined for Gallipoli. Royal Edward was reported off the Lizard on the evening of the 28th, and had arrived at Alexandria on 10 August, a day after sister ship Royal George had sailed from Devonport. Royal Edward sailed for Moudros on the island of Lemnos, a staging point for the Dardanelles.

On the morning of 13 August, Royal Edward passed the British hospital ship Soudan, heading in the opposite direction. Oberleutnant zur See Heinz von Heimburg in the German submarine UB-14 was off the island of Kandeloussa and saw both ships. He allowed Soudan to pass unmolested, and focused his attention on the unescorted Royal Edward some six nautical miles (11 km) off Kandeloussa. He launched one of UB-14's two torpedoes from about a mile (2 km) away and hit Royal Edward in the stern. She sank by the stern within six minutes.

Royal Edward was able to get off an SOS before losing power, and Soudan arrived on the scene at 10:00 after making a 180° turn and rescued 440 men in six hours. Two French destroyers and some trawlers rescued another 221. According to some reports, Royal Edward's death toll was 935 and was high because Royal Edward had just completed a boat drill and the majority of the men were below decks re-stowing their equipment.

Private Robert Cooper Kerr, 4th Royal Scots, born at Leith in 1893, was the second son of Robert Kerr, a Spirit Cellarman, and Jane Kerr, of Viewforth House, South Queensferry, and later, 5 Bothwell Street, Edinburgh.

His siblings were William, Janet, Martha and John.

Before enlisting on 8 June 1915 at Edinburgh, he was employed as a Spirit Cellarman. He served as a Private in the 4th Royal Scots, entering the Balkans as a theatre of war on 8 October 1915.

He was killed in action on 27 September 1918, age 24, and is buried in Vis-En-Artois Memorial, Pas-de-Calais, France. He is also remembered on the Abbeyhill Baptist Church Roll of Honour.

Private William Fisher Kerr, 5th Royal Scots, born at Leith in 1892, was the eldest son of Robert Kerr, a Spirit Cellarman, and Jane Kerr, of Viewforth House, South Queensferry, and later, 5 Bothwell Street, Edinburgh.

His siblings were Robert, Janet, Martha and John.

Before enlisting at Edinburgh, he was employed as a Cooper at Haig's of Markinch. He served as a Private in the 5th Royal Scots, entering the Balkans as a theatre of war on 25 April 1915.

He died of wounds received in action on 24 September 1915, age 22, and is commemorated on the Helles Memorial, Turkey. He is mentioned in a biographical note and death notice in The Scotsman on 12 October 1915 and is also remembered on the Abbeyhill Baptist Church Roll of Honour.

Private James Lapsley, 23rd Middlesex Regiment, born at South Queensferry in 1880, was the elder son of William Lapsley, a Slater, and Margaret Garvie Lapsley, of Bellstane, South Queensferry.

His siblings were Elizabeth, Rose, Katherine and Robert.

Before enlisting in the Scots Guards, he was employed as a Slater and Plasterer and resided at 4 Harbour Lane, South Queensferry. After being discharged on 9 September 1914, he enlisted in the Royal Scots at Bathgate on 21 January 1915, was then discharged again on 12 February 1915, and on 26 November 1915 at Chatham, he enlisted in the 23rd Middlesex Regiment, entering France as a theatre of war on 3 May 1916.

He was killed in action on 15 September 1916, age 35, and is commemorated on the Thiepval Memorial, Somme, France. He was mentioned in the Linlithgow Gazette on 29 September 1916 and 10 November 1916, the West Lothian Courier on 29 September 1916, and a death notice in The Scotsman on 4 November 1916.

Guardsman Robert Lapsley, 2nd Scots Guards, born at South Queensferry in 1893, was the younger son of William Lapsley, a Slater, and Margaret Garvie Lapsley, of Bellstane, South Queensferry.

His siblings were Elizabeth, James, Rose and Katherine.

Before enlisting at Edinburgh, he was employed as a Shale Miner and served in the 2nd Scots Guards, entering France as a theatre of war on 7 October 1914.

He was killed in action on 28 October 1914, age 21, and is commemorated on the Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium. He was mentioned in the Linlithgow Gazette on 25 December 1914, and the West Lothian Courier on 29 September 1916.

Guardsman Ralph Lawson, 2nd Scots Guards, born at South Queensferry in 1894, was the youngest son of James Lawson, a Baker, and Emma Lawson, of 28 West Terrace, South Queensferry.

His siblings were James, Henry and Francis.

Before enlisting at Glencorse, he was employed as a Forester by Lord Rosebery on the Dalmeny Estate. He served in the 2nd Scots Guards, entering France as a theatre of war on 7 February 1915. An article in the Linlithgow Gazette of 16 April 1915 reported that Ralph was wounded in the hand.

He died at No 10 Casualty Clearing Station of abdominal injuries on 26 July 1916, age 22, and is buried in Lijssenthoek Military Cemetery, Poperinge, West- Vlaanderen, Belgium. He was mentioned in the Linlithgow Gazette on 16 April 1915 and 4 August 1916, the West Lothian Courier on 4 August 1916 and 25 August 1916 and the Edinburgh Evening Dispatch on 17 August 1916.

Private Thomas Lee, 3rd Royal Scots Fusiliers, born at Edinburgh in 1898, was the elder son of Thomas Lee, a Bricklayer, and Elizabeth Thomson Lee, a Field Worker, of 15 Bellstane then 2E Harbour Lane, South Queensferry.

His siblings were Elizabeth, Agnes, William, Jessie and Mary.

Copyright 2014 © Garry A Ketchen and Alistair McEwen Before enlisting in the 3rd King’s Own Scottish Borderers on 8 April 1916 at South Queensferry, he was employed as a Sheet Driller. He was mobilized on 16 February 1917 and entered France as a theatre of war on 20 May 1917, being transferred and serving in the 2nd Royal Scots Fusiliers.

He received gunshot wounds in both thighs on 31 July 1917 and was hospitalised in the UK. He was then posted to Egypt on 28 November 1917 as part of a reinforcement from the 3rd Royal Scots Fusiliers.

He drowned on 30 December 1917, aged 19, when the troopship, ss Aragon, was torpedoed by the German Submarine UC-34, eight miles outside Alexandria harbour. He is buried in Alexandria (Hadra) War Memorial Cemetery, Egypt, and was mentioned in casualty lists in The Scotsman on 31 August 1917 and 12 February 1918.

Items returned to his mother after his death were discs, belt, cigarette case, wallet, book, razor and devotional book.

Private David Ley, 3rd Royal Scots, born at South Queensferry in 1894, was the youngest son of George Ley, a Shale Miner, and Margaret Smith Ley, of West Close, South Queensferry.

His siblings were Thomas, George, Ann, Margaret, William, Edward and John.

He was employed as a Shale Miner before enlisting at Glencorse on 13 November 1911 On 13 March 1912 he was posted to the Royal Scots, serving in India from 11 December to 15 October 1914.

He returned with his unit to the UK on 16 October 1914 and then entered France as a theatre of war on 19 December 1914.

After a Medical Board concluded that his health problems had been aggravated by active service and shell fire, he was discharged on 16 June 1915 as no longer physically fit for service.

He suffered from chronic left ear suppuration. His left ear had discharged since childhood after measles. He was in France when the discharge from the ear increased and deafness was much aggravated, probably due to exposure to shell fire as the hearing nerve had been damaged and he had only a mere trace of hearing in his left ear.

After his discharge he lived at the Blackness Inn, Blackness.

He died of emphysema and septicaemia in Edinburgh Royal Infirmary on 27 July 1916, age 22.

Copyright 2014 © Garry A Ketchen and Alistair McEwen Lance Sergeant Thomas Ley, MM, 17th Royal Scots (seated, right), born at Dundee in 1885, was the eldest son of George Ley, a Shale Miner, and Margaret Smith Ley, of West Close, South Queensferry.

His siblings were George, Ann, Margaret, William, David, Edward and John.

His widow was Margaret McArthur Ley, (a sister of the McArthur brothers below) of Post Office Close, South Queensferry, and his children were Emily, Margaret, Elizabeth, Jean, George and Thomas.

Before enlisting, he worked as a Distillery Warehouseman. From 1914 he served as a Lance Corporal in “A” Company, 10th Royal Scots, later serving in the 17th Royal Scots, was gassed and awarded the Military Medal in 1917.

His Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Colonel R E M Heathcote, in recommending him for the Military Medal, said, "In a raid on enemy trenches on the night of 16/17 September 1917, this NCO handled his men with great skill and courage throughout, especially so shortly after forming up when the party was subjected to heavy machine gun fire which might have caused confusion. Subsequently in the raid itself he did exceptionally good work and showed an excellent spirit to his men."

He died at home of phthisis (tuberculosis) on 6 December 1919, age 34, and was mentioned in the West Lothian Courier on 1 February 1918 and 5 December 1919.

Corporal William Ley, 17th Royal Scots, born at South Queensferry in 1891, was the third son of George Ley, a Shale Miner, and Margaret Smith Ley, of West Close, South Queensferry.

His siblings were Thomas, George, Ann, Margaret, David, Edward and John.

He was the husband of Jane Anderson Ley, of 2A Harkness Lane, South Queensferry.

Before enlisting at South Queensferry, he was employed as a Shale Miner.

He was killed in action on 18 June 1917, aged 25, and is buried in Heudicourt Communal Cemetery, Somme, France. He was mentioned in the Linlithgow Gazette on 29 June 1917.

Copyright 2014 © Garry A Ketchen and Alistair McEwen Second Lieutenant Adam Lindsay, 10th Royal Scots, born at St Monance, Fife, in 1885, was the second son of James Lindsay, a Baker, and Jane Lindsay, of Backgate, St Monance, Fife.

His siblings were James, Margaret and George.

On 11 July 1917 at Clifton, Anstruther, Fife, he married Jeanie Brown Gray Lindsay and their daughter, Elsie, was born in 1918.

He was educated at Waid Academy, Anstruther, and before enlisting, he was employed as an Accountant in the Queensferry branch of the Clydesdale Bank. Later he was employed as a Bank Accountant in the Anstruther and Queensferry branches of the Clydesdale Bank, residing at Hawes Cottage, South Queensferry.

After enlisting on 30 November 1915 at South Queensferry He initially served as an Acting Corporal in “C” Company of the 1/10th (Cyclist) Battalion Royal Scots at North Berwick . in the 10th Royal Scots, and was commissioned in the same battalion during June 1917. He was transferred to the Officer Cadet Battalion on 6 March 1917 and was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the 2/10th Royal Scots, entering France as a theatre of war on 27 June 1917, being attached to the 13th Royal Scots.

He died of wounds received in action on 1 August 1918, aged 33, at the 63rd Casualty Clearing Station and is buried in Senlis French National Cemetery, Oise, France. He was mentioned in the Linlithgow Gazette on 23 August 1918, and the West Lothian Courier on 23 August 1918.

Private James Lowe (Low), 11th Royal Scots, born at Dundee in 1887, was the only son of Thomas Low, a General Labourer, and Mary Low, 7 High Street, South Queensferry.

Mary Low was born in Markinch which may explain why he was educated at Preston Public School, Markinch, and Kirkcaldy High School.

He initially worked as an Auxiliary Postman, then the Bank of Scotland in Kirkcaldy, and became a Reporter for the Linlithgow Gazette residing at 6 East Terrace, South Queensferry.

Enlisting on 11 December 1915 at South Queensferry, he served in “A” Company of the 11th Royal Scots, entering France as a theatre of war on 1 December 1916.

He was killed in action on 6 June 1917, aged 30, and is commemorated on the Arras Memorial, Pas-de-Calais, France, Bay 1 & Bay 2. He was mentioned in the Linlithgow Gazette on 6 July 1917, the West Lothian Courier on 6 July 1917 and 13 July 1917, and a casualty list in The Scotsman on 10 July 1917.

Copyright 2014 © Garry A Ketchen and Alistair McEwen Lieutenant William Mackie, 3rd/6th Royal Scots, born at South Queensferry in 1892, was the son of William Mackie, a Bonded Stores Manager, and Annie Bonar Mackie of Burnshangie, South Queensferry.

His siblings were Ethel, Helen, Ann, James, David, Isabella and Charles, and a step- sibling, Robert Yule.

He was educated at Daniel Stewart’s College and was employed as a Distiller's Clerk.

The 3rd/6th Royal Scots was formed at Peebles during July 1915, serving at Galashiels then shortly afterwards at Peebles.

He died of sarcoma of the lung, cardiac and respiratory failure on 29 April 1916, aged 23, in Craigleith Military Hospital, Edinburgh, and is buried in South Queensferry Cemetery. He was mentioned in the Linlithgow Gazette on 5 May 1916, and a biographical note in The Scotsman on 1 May 1916.

His brother, James, served in the Veterinary Corps in Egypt. After the war he went into Veterinary practice, and one of the present partners is his grandson.

Sergeant David Mackintosh, 18th Battalion, Canadian Infantry (Western Ontario Regiment), born at South Queensferry in 1893, was the third son of Hugh Mackintosh, Queensferry Arms Hotel Keeper, and Janet Mackintosh, of High Street, South Queensferry, then Fortha, Cramond.

His siblings were Helen, Elizabeth, Hugh, James, Catherine and Russell.

On 23 August 1913, he left Glasgow on ss Scandinavian, bound for Quebec, and was then employed as a Machinist. He enlisted at Stratford, Ontario, Canada on 30 October 1914.

He was killed in action on 15 September 1916, aged 23, and is commemorated on the Vimy Memorial, Pas-de-Calais, France. He was mentioned in a death notice in The Scotsman on 10 October 1916.

Private George Duff Marshall, 1st Royal Scots Fusiliers, born at Cockermouth, Cumberland, in 1897, was the only son of Robert Marshall, a Joiner, and Elizabeth Marshall, of Back Road, South Queensferry.

In 1911, he was living with his grandmother, Williamina, and aunt, Alison, who was the Shopkeeper of Lily Bank Dairy in the Vennel, South Queensferry.

He enlisted at Kirkliston and initially served in the Royal Scots before being transferred and serving in the 1st Royal Scots Fusiliers.

He was listed as missing presumed killed in action on 3 May 1917, aged 19, and is commemorated on the Arras Memorial, Pas-de-Calais, France. He was mentioned in casualty lists in The Scotsman on 11 June 1917 and 27 June 1917, the Linlithgow

Lance Corporal Peter Marshall, 11th Battalion, Tank Corps, born at South Queensferry in 1893, was the son of William Marshall, a Carting Contractor, and Grace Marshall of The Craigs, South Queensferry.

His widow was Isabella Gibson Lees Marshall of Dalmeny Village, Dalmeny.

Before enlisting at South Queensferry, he was employed in his father’s Carting business.

He served as a Gunner in the Royal Field Artillery, then transferred and served as a Lance Corporal in the 11th Battalion, Tank Corps.

He was listed as missing, presumed killed in action, on 3 September 1918, aged 25, and is commemorated on the Vis-en-Artois Memorial, Pas-de-Calais, France. He was mentioned in the Linlithgow Gazette on 13 September 1918, the West Lothian Courier on 13 September 1918, and a death notice in The Scotsman on 29 November 1919.

Private William Marshall, 12th Royal Scots, born on 22/10/1891 at South Queensferry, was the youngest son of William Marshall, a Shale Miner, and Agnes Knox Marshall, of Harbour Lane, South Queensferry.

His siblings were John, David, Peter, George and Catherine

His widow was Marion Fyfe Marshall, of 22 Engine Row, Hill of Beath, Crossgates, Fife.

After enlisting at Dunfermline, he served in the 1st Royal Scots, entering France as a theatre of war on 6 March 1915, being later posted to the 12th Royal Scots.

He was killed in action on 23 November 1915, aged 24, and is commemorated on Special Memorial H.21 in Maple Copse Cemetery, Ieper, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium.

Private Norman Mathieson, 4th Seaforth Highlanders, born at Leith in 1883, was the son of John Mathieson, a Merchant Seaman, and Mary Mathieson of 1 Wilkie Place, Leith.

His sibling was Margaret.

Before enlisting at South Queensferry, he was employed as an Assistant Pharmacist, then served in the 4th Seaforth Highlanders.

He was killed in action on 4 December 1917, aged 34, and is mentioned on the Cambrai Memorial, Lonveral, Nord, France.

Copyright 2014 © Garry A Ketchen and Alistair McEwen Private James McArthur, 2nd Seaforth Highlanders, born at South Queensferry in 1895, was the sixth son of John McArthur, a Florist, and Amelia McArthur, of Brown’s Close and Hill Square, South Queensferry.

His siblings were William, John, Peter, Margaret, Elizabeth, Robert, Alexander, Ellen, Colin and Catherine.

Before enlisting as a Regular Soldier on 22 December 1911, he was employed as a Shale Miner. He served in the 2nd Seaforth Highlanders, entering France as a theatre of war on 23 August 1914, and was wounded in the hand at La Bessee around April/May 1915. Due to a medical condition that had affected him for many years he was posted from the front to the Seaforth Highlanders Depot at Fort George and was eventually discharged on 3 May 1918.

He died of pulmonary tuberculosis on 9 January 1923, aged 28, and is buried in the UK. He was mentioned in the Linlithgow Gazette on 1 January 1915 and 21 May 1915.

Private John McArthur, 1st Royal Scots Fusiliers, born at South Queensferry in 1881, was the second son of John McArthur, a Florist, and Amelia McArthur, of Brown's Close and Hill Square, South Queensferry.

His siblings were William, Peter, Margaret, Elizabeth, Robert, Alexander, James, Ellen, Colin and Catherine.

Before enlisting, he was employed as a Driver’s Assistant, and in the 1st Royal Scots Fusiliers, entering France as a theatre of war on 14 August 1914, where he was wounded around December 1914.

He died of tuberculosis on 27 May 1921, aged 39, and is buried in the UK. He was mentioned in the Linlithgow Gazette on 1 January 1915.

Sergeant William McArthur, DCM, 13th Royal Scots, born at South Queensferry in 1879, was the eldest son of John McArthur, a Florist, and Amelia McArthur, of Brown's Close and Hill Square, South Queensferry.

His siblings were John, Peter, Margaret, Elizabeth, Robert, Alexander, James, Ellen, Colin and Catherine.

His widow was Janet Fossett McArthur, of 22 Watt Street, Addiewell, Midlothian.

Prior to the war he had served for 10 years in the 8th Royal Scots Territorial Battalion, and was employed as an Oil Refiner. He enlisted on 5 December 1914 at Edinburgh and served in the 16th Royal Scots, being appointed Lance Corporal on 29 December 1915 and entering France as a theatre of war on 8 January 1916. He was promoted to Corporal on 2 July 1916 and later received a gunshot wound to his left wrist on 2 August 1916. He was to remain hospital in the UK until 23 November 1916 after which he was posted to France serving with the 13th Royal Scots from 18 September 1917, being promoted to Sergeant on 29 March 1918.

Copyright 2014 © Garry A Ketchen and Alistair McEwen In 1916, he was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal. The citation read, "For conspicuous bravery when bombarding a dug-out. With the assistance of another man, who guarded the exit, he entered the dug-out alone, and forced all the occupants, forty unwounded and three wounded, to come out and surrender.

He was killed in action on 24 July 1918, aged 39, and is commemorated on the Soissons Memorial, Aisne, France.

John McLean, born 1894 at Brackla, Nairnshire, was the youngest son of Thomas McLean, a Cooper, and Mary McLean, of Brackla, Nairnshire, then Lily Bank, Stony Croft Road, South Queensferry.

His siblings were Andrew, Jane, William, Margaret, Mary and Alexander. Andrew was employed as a Gas Works Clerk, Jane and Margaret as Domestic Servants and Alexander as a Railway Clerk.

Before enlisting, John was employed as an Apprentice Engineer in Dalmeny Crude Oil Works.

Private Peter McLeary, 1st Scottish Rifles, born at Kirkliston in 1896, was the elder son of James McLeary, a Shale Miner, and Mary McLeary of Westerton Rows, Kirkliston.

His siblings were Sarah, Martha, Janet, Peterina and James.

After enlisting at South Queensferry, he initially served in the Royal Scots before being transferred and serving in the 1st Scottish Rifles.

He was killed in action on 23 October 1918, age 22, and is commemorated on the Vis-en-Artois Memorial, Pas-de-Calais, France.

Private Cornelius (Neil) McPhillips, 3rd Royal Scots, born at Dalmeny in 1876, was the third son of George McPhillips, a Platelayer and later a Casual Labourer, and Ann McPhillips, Covenanters' Lane, South Queensferry

His siblings were George, Edward and James.

He served in the Boer War as a Private in the 1st Scots Guards, was awarded the Queen’s South Africa Medal with six clasps and the King’s South Africa Medal with two clasps, and after being discharged on 23 July 1907, he became a Miner, living at Bellstane, South Queensferry.

He enlisted at Glencorse into the Special Reserve on 15 June 1908, serving as a Private in the 3rd Royal Scots, being appointed Lance Corporal on 2 September 1914. He was posted to the 2nd Royal Scots on 7 October 1914 and entered France as a theatre of war on the same date. He received a shrapnel wound to the chest at Ypres on 28 May 1915 and was posted back to the UK on 10 June 1915. Reverting to the rank of Private on 11 June 1915, he served in the 3rd Royal Scots. A Medical Board concluded that his chest wound caused his left lung to thicken, he was emaciated and anaemic, and suffered from shortness of breath and a cough.

He died of pneumonia on 2 December 1916, age 41, at the Hopetoun House Military Hospital, South Queensferry, and is buried in the UK. He was mentioned in the Linlithgow Gazette on 18 June 1915, and the West Lothian Courier on 25 June 1915.

Private David Moig, 1st Gordon Highlanders, born at Edinburgh in 1887, was the elder son of David Moig, a Flour Miller, who died in 1888, age 29, and Mary Moig. Mary Moig married James Kinmond, a Jobbing Gardener, and lived at 8 Donald's Court, Aberdeen.

His siblings were Elizabeth, Jane and James.

He married Susan Burness, they had two daughters, Jennie and Mary, and lived at Donaldson's Close, Dalkeith.

Before enlisting at Dalkeith, he was employed as a Coal Miner then a Chain Runner and served as a Private in the 1st Gordon Highlanders, entering France as a theatre of war on 29 September 1915.

He died of wounds received in the field on 31/01/1916, age 29, when a shell exploded in his trench, and is buried in La Clytte Military Cemetery, Heuvelland, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium. .

Private John Murray, 8th Seaforth Highlanders, born at Langholm in 1888, was the son of Robert Murray, and Jane Murray of Llama Cottage, Aspatria, Cumberland.

He married Mary Anne Murray of 7 Rosevale Street, Langholm, Dumfriesshire.

Before enlisting at Edinburgh, he was employed as a Manager at the Hillwood Co- operative Store, South Queensferry. He initially served as a Private in the Scottish Rifles, being later transferred and serving as a Private in the 2nd/4th then 8th Seaforth Highlanders.

He was killed in action on 22 August 1917, aged 29, and is commemorated on the Tyne Cot Memorial, Zonnebeke, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium. He was mentioned in the Linlithgow Gazette on 28 September 1917.

Lieutenant Robert Elder Murray, 5th/6th Royal Scots, born at Edinburgh in 1896, was the younger son of William Murray, a Hotel Manager, and Jessie Robertson Elder Murray, of the Stags Head Hotel, South Queensferry.

His siblings were William, Janet, Georgina and Charlotte.

He was educated at Alexandria Academy and a Private School, and became a Dental Student.

He enlisted on 21 May 1915 at Edinburgh and initially served as a Private in the 3/9th Royal Scots, being appointed Lance Corporal on 24 July 1915. He was

Copyright 2014 © Garry A Ketchen and Alistair McEwen commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the 3/5th Royal Scots on 15 October 1915, entering France as a theatre of war on 23 March 1918, being posted to the 5th/6th Royal Scots.

He was killed in action on 11 August 1918, age 22, and is commemorated on the Vis-En-Artois Memorial, Pas-de-Calais, France. He mentioned in the Linlithgow Gazette on 23 August 1918, and a biographical note in The Scotsman on 20 August 1918.

Lance Corporal Walter Pearson, 2nd Royal Scots, born at South Queensferry in 1886, was the only son of Janet Pearson, a Laundry Worker, of West Terrace, South Queensferry.

Before becoming a Regular Soldier, he was employed first as a Grocer's Message Boy, then as a Plumber, and resided at 14 Rosshill Terrace, Dalmeny. Prior to joining the army he had served in the 8th Volunteer Battalion, Royal Scots, then enlisted on 12 October 1903 at Edinburgh and served as a Private in the 3rd Royal Scots. He joined the regular army on 24 November 1903 and served as a Private in the 1st Royal Scots in India from 28 February 1906 to 17 January 1912, being transferred to the Army Reserve on 19 January 1912. After the outbreak of the Great War he was mobilized on 5 August 1914 and appointed as a Lance Corporal, serving in the 2nd Royal Scots, entering France as a theatre of war on 11 August 1914.

He was killed in action on 26 August 1914, aged 29, and is commemorated on the La-Ferte-Sous-Jouarre, Memorial, Seine-et-Marne, France.

Private Alexander Fraser Peddie, 1st King’s Own Scottish Borderers, born at Edinburgh in 1873, was the younger son of Andrew Peddie, House Painter, and Jessie Mc Peddie, of 63 Montgomery Street, Leith.

His siblings were Robert and Jessie.

His widow was Elizabeth Peddie of Viewforth House, South Queensferry.

Before enlisting at Kirkliston, he was employed as a Painter at Dundas Castle. He served as a Private in the 1st King’s Own Scottish Borderers, entering the Balkans as a theatre of war on 8 May 1915.

He was killed in action on 4 June 1915, age 42, and is commemorated on the Helles Memorial, Turkey. He was mentioned in the Linlithgow Gazette on 30 July 1915.

Private Michael Quigley, 1st Royal Irish Fusiliers, born at West Calder in 1884, was the third son of Edward Quigley, a Shale Miner, and Anne Quigley, of 5 Stone Row, Dalmeny.

His siblings were Edward, Patrick, Philip, James, Peter, Ellen, Mary and John.

His widow was Elizabeth Quigley of 5 Stone Row, Dalmeny, then Post Office Buildings, South Queensferry.

Copyright 2014 © Garry A Ketchen and Alistair McEwen He was employed as a Shale Miner before he enlisted at South Queensferry and initially served aa a Private in the 1st Royal Dublin Fusiliers, being later transferred and serving as a Private in the 1st Royal Irish Fusiliers.

He was killed in action on 11 April 1917, age 33, and is buried in Brown’s Copse Cemetery, Roeux, Pas-de-Calais, France. He was mentioned in the West Lothian Courier on 19 April 1918, and casualty lists in The Scotsman on 24 May 1917 and 30 June 1917.

Private William Ritchie, 2nd Royal Scots, born at South Queensferry in 1886, was the only son of Cecilia Mason (Ritchie), Agricultural Labourer, of Harbour Head, South Queensferry.

His sibling was Cecilia.

His widow was Agnes Lynch Ritchie, of 24 Catherine Terrace, South Queensferry.

Before enlisting at South Queensferry on 22 September 1903, he was employed as a Shale Miner. and served in the UK as a Private in the 2nd Royal Scots, being transferred to the Army Reserve on 21 September 1906. He was mobilized on 5 August 1914 and was again posted to the 2nd Royal Scots, entering France as a theatre of war on 11 August 1914.

He was killed in action on 15 October 1914, age 29, and is buried in Vieille-Chapelle New Military Cemetery, Lacouture, Pas-de-Calais, France. He was mentioned in the West Lothian Courier on 13 November 1914.

Private William McDonald Ronaldson, 2nd Queen’s Own Cameron Highlanders, born at Edinburgh in 1891, was the second son of John Ronaldson, a Railway Surfaceman, and Jessie Ronaldson, a Shopkeeper of 2 Little Brick Row and also Williamson Place, Dalmeny.

His siblings were John, Peter, Alice, Donald Robert and Jessie.

After enlisting at Edinburgh he served as a Private in the 2nd Queen’s Own Cameron Highlanders, entering France as a theatre of war on 19 December 1914.

He was killed in action on 23 April 1915, age 24, and is buried in Larch Wood (Railway Cutting) Cemetery, Ieper, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium. He was mentioned in the Linlithgow Gazette on 28 May 1915, and a biographical note in The Edinburgh Evening News on 3 June 1915.

Private Charles Sandercombe, 2nd/10th Royal Scots attached 7th/8th King’s Own Scottish Borderers, born at Dalmeny in 1896, was the third son of Charles D Sandercombe, a Merchant, and Christina Sandercombe, of 3 Rosshill Terrace, Dalmeny, and Trafalgar Cottage, South Queensferry.

His siblings were James, William, Daisy, Christina and Roderick.

He was killed in action on 18 August 1916, age 20, during the Battle of the Somme, and is buried in Caterpillar Valley Cemetery, Longueval, Somme, France. He was mentioned in the Linlithgow Gazette on 4 October 1918, the West Lothian Courier on 29 September 1916, the Edinburgh Evening Dispatch on 7 July 1917, and a casualty list in The Scotsman on 25 September 1916.

Private James Sandercombe, 17th Royal Scots, born at South Queensferry in 1882, was the eldest son of Charles D Sandercombe, a Merchant, and Christina Sandercombe of 3 Rosshill Terrace, Dalmeny, and Trafalgar Cottage, South Queensferry.

His siblings were William, Daisy, Christina, Charles and Roderick.

Before enlisting at South Queensferry, he was employed as a Cooper, and served as a Private in the 17th Royal Scots.

He died of wounds received in action on 25 September 1918, age 36, at No 2 Canadian Casualty Clearing Station and is buried in Lijssenthoek Military Cemetery, Poperinge, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium. He was mentioned in the Linlithgow Gazette on 4 October 1918, the West Lothian Courier on 4 October 1918, and a casualty list in The Scotsman on 29 October 1918.

Private John Sanderson, 2nd Royal Scots, born at Penicuik in 1885, was the second son of John Sanderson, an Agricultural Labourer, and Ann Margery Sanderson, of Viewforth Terrace, South Queensferry.

His siblings were James, Margaret and William

His widow was Mary Ann McIntosh Sanderson of Viewforth House, South Queensferry, later of Rumeldry Mill Bank, Kingskettle, then Back Dykes, East Wemyss, Fife.

Before enlisting at Kirkliston on 21 September 1914, he was employed as a Shale Miner at Oakbank Oil Company, then served as a Private in the 2nd Royal Scots, entering France as a theatre of war on 4 January 1915, later suffering from shell shock on 16 March 1916.

He was listed as missing presumed killed in action on 22 July 1916, age 31, during the Battle of the Somme and is commemorated on the Thiepval Memorial, Somme, France. He was mentioned in the Linlithgow Gazette on 29 June 1917.

Gunner William Scott, 179th Brigade, Royal Field Artillery, born at Dalmeny in 1896, was the second son of William Scott, a Shale Pit Contractor, and Agnes Scott, of Bankhead Cottage, Dalmeny.

His siblings were Sarah, James, Catherine, John and Agnes

He was killed in action on 21 April 1918, age 22, and is buried in St Fuscien Communal Cemetery, Somme, France. He was mentioned in a casualty list in The Scotsman on 6 June 1918.

Guardsman James Sellar, 1st Scots Guards, born at South Queensferry in 1881, was the only son of Alexander Sellars, a Carter and Railway Surfaceman, and Agnes S Sellars, of Bellstane, South Queensferry.

His siblings were Agnes, Margaret and Christina.

His widow was Kathleen Sellar (later Cox), of Catherine Terrace, then 14 Stewart Terrace, South Oueensferry.

As a Regular Soldier, he initially served as a Private in the 2nd Scots Guards seeing action during the Boer War before being later transferred to the Army Reserve. At the outbreak of the Great War he re-enlisted at South Queensferry and served as a Guardsman in “B” Company of the 1st Scots Guards, entering France as a theatre of war on 15 September 1914.

He was killed in action on 1 January 1915, age 34, and is commemorated on the Le Touret Memorial, Pas-de-Calais, France. Throughout his military career he was awarded the Queen’s South Africa Medal with 3 clasps, the 1914 Star & clasp, British War Medal & Victory Medal and was mentioned in the Linlithgow Gazette on 8 January 1915.

Guardsman James Shade, 2nd Scots Guards, born at Liberton in 1885, was the only son of Henry Shade, a Colliery Fireman, and Jane Shade, of 2 Railway Row, Dalmeny. Jane Shade died in 1898 and Henry's second wife was named Henrietta.

On 24 December 1911 at St Leonards, Shoreditch, London, he married Minnie Winifred Croft, and they had three children.

Before enlisting at Edinburgh, he was employed as a Retortman and resided in Clark Place, South Queensferry then The Rows, Dalmeny.

He served as a Guardsman in the 2nd Scots Guards, entering France as a theatre of war on 7 October 1914.

He was killed in action on 16 May 1915, age 29, and is mentioned on the Le Touret Memorial, Pas-de-Calais, France. He was mentioned in the Linlithgow Gazette on 23 July 1915, a casualty list in The Scotsman on 30 June 1915, and in a biographical note in The Edinburgh Evening News on 26 July 1915.

Gunner John Smith, 119th Battery, 27th Brigade, Royal Field Artillery, born at Gilmerton in 1894, was the third son of John Murray Smith, Shale Miner, and Elizabeth Remnant Smith of 10 Church Row, Dalmeny then Hamilton's Close, South Queensferry.

His siblings were William, Catherine, Charles, Elizabeth, Margaret and Grace..

Gunner Smith served in the 119th Battery, 27th Brigade, Royal Field Artillery, a regular army unit, and entered France as a theatre of war on 19 August 1914.

He died of bronchitis on 31 January 1915, aged 21, according to one source whilst another states that he “died from shock brought on by continual artillery fire”. He is buried in St Sever Cemetery, Rouen, Seine-Maritime, France. He was mentioned in a biographical note in The Edinburgh Evening News on 13 March 1915.

Private John Smith, 11th Scottish Rifles, born at South Queensferry in 1884, was the younger son of John Smith, a Distiller's Labourer, and Ann Smith, of 8 McArthur's Buildings, South Queensferry.

His siblings were Peter and Catherine.

Before enlisting at Kirkliston, he was employed as a General Labourer then a Retortman.

He served as a Private in the 11th Scottish Rifles, entering France as a theatre of war on 19 September 1915.

He died of malaria on 17 September 1916, age 32, and is buried in Salonika (Lembet Road) Military Cemetery, Greece. He was mentioned in the West Lothian Courier on 6 October 1916 and 20 October 1916, and a casualty list in The Scotsman on 30 October 1916, .

Private Peter Smith, 8th Royal Dublin Fusiliers, born at South Queensferry in 1878, was the elder son of John Smith, a Distiller's Labourer, and Anne Smith, of 8 McArthur's Buildings, South Queensferry.

His widow was Mary Smith, of 5 Farquhar Terrace, South Queensferry.

Before enlisting at Inverkeithing, he was employed as a Shale Miner.

He served as a Private in the 8th Royal Dublin Fusiliers.

He was killed in action on 8 September 1916, age 38, during the Battle of the Somme and is commemorated on the Thiepval Memorial, Somme, France. He mentioned in the West Lothian Courier on 20 October 1916, and a casualty list in The Scotsman on 16 October 1916.

Lance Corporal Charles Stevenson, 3rd/1st Lowland Field Ambulance, Royal Army Medical Corps, born at Milngavie in 1874, was the eldest son of Charles Stevenson, a retired Hotel Proprietor and Provost of South Queensferry, and Jennie Stevenson, of East Terrace, South Queensferry.

His siblings were Robert and David.

He enlisted at Glasgow serving as a Lance Corporal in the 3rd/1st Lowland Field Ambulance, Royal Army Medical Corps, entering Egypt as a theatre of war on 11 August 1915.

He died at sea, age 42, in the sinking of HM Transport Royal Edward on 13 August 1915, and is commemorated on the Helles Memorial, Turkey (see the entry for Private George Souter Kerr). He was mentioned in a biographical note in the West Lothian Courier on 3 September 1915, in The Scotsman on 29 September 1915, and The Edinburgh Evening News on 29 September 1915. He is also remembered on the Cramond Kirk Memorial.

Lance Sergeant George James Stewart, 16th Canadian Infantry (Manitoba Regiment), born at South Queensferry in 1879, was the younger son of John Stewart, Burgh Officer, and Agnes Stewart, of Back Road, South Queensferry.

His siblings were Catherine, Archibald, Agnes and Elizabeth.

His widow was Eveline Alice Stewart, of 41 Clock House Road, Beckenham, Kent, and their children were Ronald John and Agnes Doreen.

Before the family emigrated to Canada on ss Empress of Ireland from Liverpool to Quebec, arriving on 8 June 1912, he was employed as a Brewer's Clerk and they lived at 30 Grove Place, Bedford.

He became a Canadian citizen, was employed as a Clerk and the family lived at 116 Lydia Street, Winnipeg. He enlisted in Manitoba Regiment at Winnipeg on 23 December 1914.

He was killed in action on 7 August 1916, age 37, and is buried in Larch Wood (Railway Cutting) Cemetery, Ieper, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium.

Stewart, George T. [All that is on South Queensferry Memorial] Rank, Regiment, Number. Special Awards Died, date, age. Comm/Buried Born: ? Roll: ?

Private Martin Tierney, Depot, Royal Scots, born at South Queensferry in 1889, was the second son of Patrick Tierney, a Shale Miner, and Margaret Tierney, of 17 East Terrace, South Queensferry.

His siblings were Terence, John, Margaret and Catherine.

His widow was Marjory Mathieson of Dowie's Mill, Cramond Bridge.

Before enlisting at South Queensferry, he was employed as a Shale Miner, and served as a Private in the Royal Scots Depot.

He died of influenza on 5 December 1918, aged 30, and is buried in Queensferry Cemetery.

Private Charles Stewart Watson, 8th Royal Scots, born at London in 1898, was the son of Charles Watson, a House Painter, and Christina Watson of the Liberal Club, Edinburgh.

In 1911, he was boarding with the Thornton family at 20 New Quebec Street, Marylebone, London, and attending school. Later, he resided with his sister, Hilda Watson, at the Forth Bridge Hotel, South Queensferry.

He enlisted at Kirkliston and served as a Private in the 8th Royal Scots, entering France as a theatre of war during July 1916. One source suggests that Charles was latterly attached to the 2nd Royal Scots.

He died of wounds received in action on 3 September 1916, age 18, and is buried in Abbeville Communal Cemetery, Somme, France. He mentioned in the Linlithgow Gazette on 8 September 1916 and 22 September 1916, the West Lothian Courier on 16 June 1916 and 29 September 1916 and a casualty list in The Scotsman on 19 October 1916.

Private John Wilson, 1st Coldstream Guards, born at South Queensferry in 1887, was the third son of Alexander Wilson, a Joiner, and Mary Wilson, of 13 The Loan, South Queensferry and later Rosshill Terrace, Dalmeny.

His siblings were James, Walter, Henry, Alexander, Euphemia, Isabella, William and Daniel.

Before enlisting at Rothesay, he was employed as a Footman at Newbattle Abbey, and served as a Private in the 1st Coldstream Guards, entering France as a theatre of war on 8 December 1914.

He was killed in action on 22 December 1914, age 27, and is commemorated on the Le Touret Memorial, Pas-de-Calais, France. He was mentioned in the Linlithgow Gazette on 29 January 1915.

Private George Woods, 2nd/5th Royal Warwickshire Regiment, born at Dalmeny in 1896, was the second son of Henry Woods, a Painter, and Henrietta Woods of The Vennel, South Queensferry, and also Hawthorn Bank, South Queensferry.

His siblings were William, Catherine and Clara.

Before the war he was an Amateur Lightweight Boxer, and was employed as a Plumber. He enlisted at South Queensferry and initially served as a Private in the Royal Scots, being later transferred and serving as a Private in the 2nd/5th Royal Warwickshire Regiment, entering France as a theatre of war during April 1916. He was wounded in the thigh around Sept 1917 and returned to the front nine weeks later.

Copyright 2014 © Garry A Ketchen and Alistair McEwen He died of wounds on 6 December 1917, aged 21, at No 21 Casualty Clearing Station, a few days after returning to the front, and is buried in Rocquigny- Equancourt Road British Cemetery, Manancourt, Somme, France. He was mentioned in the Linlithgow Gazette on 3 August 1917 and 21 December 1917, the West Lothian Courier on 28 December 1917 and 4 January 1918, and a casualty list in The Scotsman on 11 January 1918.