Below is the research that has been carried out by Trevor Wright on men who served in WW1
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Men of Blundeston who served in WW1 – Roll of Honour
Navy
1. Bachelor I. – Isaac. He was born in Lound abt. 1879, and in 1901 he was living in Blundeston with his wife Alice. He was a general labourer. In 1911 he was recorded as a fisherman on board the Welcome (LT 713) which was fishing off Pembrokeshire. His wife and two children, Eliza (8) and George (1), were living in Blundeston. They also had an adopted child Hilda Wayland who was aged 10 and had been born in Oulton.
2. Balls A. – Arthur James. He was born abt. 1890 in Blundeston per censuses, but he wasn’t baptised there. He was the son of Samuel Balls and his wife Eliza (nee Horn). He was living in the village with his parents in 1891 and 1901, but he wasn’t with them in 1911.
He married Sarah Hooper, daughter of William Hooper, at St. Mary’s on 25 July 1917. He was then described as being in the Royal Navy Reserve.
3. Bowler C. – Charles Ambrose. He was baptised at Blundeston on 1st January 1899, the son of Charles Ernest and Ethel May Bowler, fisherman. In 1911 he was living in Blundeston with his parents. His father was a fisherman.
4. Bowler P. Francis John? He was baptised at Blundeston on 3rd October 1897, the son of James William and Ellen Elizabeth (nee Offord) Bowler, labourer. In 1901 and 1911 he was living in Blundeston with his mother and siblings. (In 1911 his sisters Ellen (17), Ethel (10) and Fanny (8) were at home.) His father was a fisherman.
5. Brooks J. – John? The Blundeston Gravestones List records the death of John Brooks on 26 December 1977, aged 88. His wife was called Violet Sarah. The 1911 census has two possible candidates.
a John Brooks aged 23 and a hostler born in Westbourne, Suffolk who was in the military in Egypt.
b John Brooks aged 23 and a fisherman born in Hopton, who was living in Gorleston with his aunt Harriet Gallant, aged 72 and a retired publican.
6. Cooper G. – George Albert. In 1911 he was aged 14 and a labourer in a brewery, living in Flixton Road, Blundeston with his parents George and Laura, and his brothers Henry (9) and Ingram (6). The family came from Norfolk, George having been born in Gunthorpe.
7. Coleby W. – William Ralph. In 1911 he was aged 11 living in Blundeston with his parents Ralph and Laura and four siblings. (The other children were Nora May (11), Olive Agnes (6), Ronald Malcolm (3) and Ena Winifred (4 months) – all born in Blundeston.) His father was a bricklayer. (See No. 43 below)
He signed up for 12 years with the Navy on his 18th birthday, 31 May 1918, and served on the Powerful, Temeraire, Victorious, Diligence, Warspite and other ships during his service.
8. Freeman W. – There is no mention of this surname on any Blundeston records available to me, but the Lowestoft Cemetery records have details of three men who had that surname and the second name of William.
a. William James Freeman died in 1913 aged 50. From census records he came from Fressingfield and he was a blacksmith. He and his wife Eliza had three children who were all alive in 1911, and there was a son Thomas William who was born in Lowestoft in 1887. In 1901 Thomas was also a blacksmith, but he doesn’t show up in 1911.
b. George William who died in 1961 aged 73. In 1911 he was living in Corton and was a fisherman.
c. George William who died in 1971 aged 75. In 1911 he was living at 54 St. Peter’s Street, Lowestoft with his parents. He was born in Norwich and was working as an errand boy. However he had a brother called William who was only 7 months old in 1911 and would not have been old enough to be in WW1.
9. Hovells E. – Ernest. He was described as a fisherman when his daughter Olive was baptised at Blundeston in 1909. In 1911 his wife Ethel, aged 31 from Lound, was living in Market Lane with their four children – Daisy (11), Ivy (8) and Viola (3). Their son Arthur Ernest, aged 11 and born in Hopton, was also there and would have been old enough to have enlisted for WW1. Ernest Sr. was away, presumably at sea.
(Per Medals Index – An Arthur E. Hovells is listed as being Private no. 56792 with the Lancashire Fusiliers. He was awarded the Victory and British Medals.)
10. James W. – William. In 1911, aged 30 and a farm labourer, he was living in Blundeston with his parents William and Ellen. He had been born in Gt. Yarmouth.
11. Knights C. – Charlie Benjamin. He was baptised at Blundeston on 5th June 1881, the son of Benjamin and Clara (nee Tuttill) Knights, fisherman. He was one of 15 children, and was living in Blundeston with his parents in 1891 and 1901. He was presumably at sea in 1911. He married Harriet Eliza Rudd, daughter of John Rudd, at St. Mary’s on 8 January 1917.
He was drowned when the drifter Shorebreeze – LT1140 – was lost with all hands on 5th January 1936 off the coast of Milford Haven. He is remembered on his wife’s gravestone in Blundeston Churchyard.
His brother Ambrose is remembered on Blundeston War Memorial.
12. Knights H. – Herbert Middleton. He was baptised at Blundeston on 3rd February 1889, the son of Benjamin and Clara Knights, fisherman. He was living in Blundeston with his parents in 1891 and 1901. He was presumably at sea in 1911. He married Maud Edith Fox at St. Mary’s in 1912.
His brother Ambrose is remembered on Blundeston War Memorial.
13. Knights R. – Robert Ernest. He was baptised at Blundeston on 24th October 1884, the son of Benjamin and Clara Knights, fisherman. He was living in Blundeston with his parents in 1891 and 1901. He was presumably at sea in 1911. He married Lily May Balls at St. Mary’s on 4 March 1919. He was then described as a sailor with RNR.
According to his gravestone in Blundeston Churchyard, he was born on 23rd October 1884. He died on 5 September 1976, aged 91. His brother Ambrose is remembered on Blundeston War Memorial.
14. Lown W. William Ernest. He was baptised at Blundeston on 4th April 1896, the son of Walter and Clara Lown, labourer. He was one of 8 children, and in 1901 and 1911 he was living in Blundeston with his parents. In 1911 he was working as an apprentice yard man. The Blundeston Gravestone list records that he was the chauffeur to Peto. He died in 1935.
He joined the Navy on 16 August 1916 as an Ordinary Seaman, and served on the Pembroke, Dido, Attentive and Woolwich, being demobbed on 2 March 1919.
His brother John is remembered on Blundeston War Memorial.
William Ernest Lown married Agnes Mary Sargent, daughter of Robert Sargent, at St. Mary’s on 21 June 1924.
15. Miller F. – Edgar George? He was baptised at Blundeston on 4th June 1876, the son of George and Eliza Miller, tailor. He had a brother Victor who was born in 1879. Edgar married Alice Eliza Bowler at St. Mary’s in 1899.
In 1911 he was living in Blundeston with his wife and children Edna (11), Eva (9) and Nora (2). He was a fisherman.
16. Myhill R. – Robert. In 1911 he was living in Lound Road with his wife Hagar and children Robert (6), Charles (4) and Gladys (1). He was aged 36, born in Rollesby, Norfolk, and he was working as a labourer in a market garden. (See also under 18 below)
17. Parker C. – There were three Parker families in Blundeston in 1911, but none of them had members with this initial. Two Charles Parkers were living at Pakefield, but neither of them had been born in or had any obvious connection to Blundeston.
18. Parker D. – David. In 1911 he was living in Market Lane with his wife Emma and her father Walter Jermay. David was aged 38, born in Rollesby, Norfolk, and he was working as a gardener’s labourer. Other searches reveal that he was born on 6 October 1872, and that he served in the RN Reserve as No. DA 9078. He died on 16 February 1960 at Lowestoft. (He was probably the half-brother of Robert Myhill (16 above). In 1881 they were both living with Robert and Mary Ann Myhill at Hassingham, Norfolk. David Parker (10) was described as Robert’s stepson, and Robert John Myhill (6) was his son.)
19. Parker H. – Harold Victor. In 1911 he was living in Market Lane with his mother Alice and four younger sisters – Dorothy (11), Hilda (10), Jessie (4) and Alice (6 months). Harold was 13 and was working as a farm boy. He was born in Lowestoft but his sisters were born in Blundeston. Alice’s husband was called Frederick, but he was absent in both 1901 and 1911, presumably at sea, and they weren’t from the Blundeston area.
OR – Harry Archibald. He was baptised at Blundeston on 5th May 1895, the son of Henry and Agnes (nee Spence) Parker, labourer. In 1911 the family was living at Kemps (or Camp’s) Heath, Oulton. Henry and his son Harry were both horsemen on farms, and the three children were all at home. (The other children were Marjory Agnes b,1899, and Ernest Edward Andrew b.1903, both in Blundeston.)
20. Parker W. – William. In 1911, aged 11, he was living with his grandfather Samuel Ward Parker and Samuel’s daughter Elizabeth (40). They had all been born in Somerleyton, but William wasn’t baptised there. Samuel was a fisherman. (See also No. 74)
21. Pearce P. – Phillip. He was baptised at Blundeston on 1st December 1901, the son of John and Agnes (nee Firman) Pearce, bricklayer. In 1911 John and Agnes were still living in Blundeston Street with their children Jack (12), Philip (9), Robert (7), Emily (5) and Hilda (3). John was still working as a bricklayer
22. Pearson D. – David Samuel. He was baptised at Blundeston on 2nd March 1879, the son of David Samuel Pearson, labourer. In 1881 and 1891 he was living in the village with his parents, but he was missing in 1901 and 1911, presumably at sea. However his parents continued to live there, and David married Alberta Clara Knights at St. Mary’s in 1916. He died on 22 October 1935, aged 55, and his wife died in Feb. 1956. They were both buried at St. Mary’s.
His brother Ernest is remembered on Blundeston War Memorial.
23. Rackham W. – William George. He was baptised at Blundeston on 2nd January 1887, the son of Samuel and Emily Rackham, fisherman. In 1901 he was living in the village with his mother’s parents William and Harriet Godbold.
No record in 1911. However he married Clara Nunn, daughter of Abram Nunn, at St. Mary’s on 11 September 1913. He was then described as a fisherman.
24. Rudd T. – Thomas Levi. He was the eldest son of Levi and Caroline Rudd who were living in Blundeston in 1911 (see also No. 91 below). Thomas was living with them there in 1901. He was born on 19 April 1893, and he joined the Royal Navy for 12 years on 19 April 1911. He served as a gunner on 19 ships during his service, on several occasions on the Pembroke 1, but during WW1 he was on the HMS Tyne for 3 years. His Service No. was J5534, and he was awarded the Star, Victory and British Medals.
25. Rushmere W. – William. In 1911 he was living in Blundeston Street with his wife Ellen and children William (4), Ellen (6) and Freda (2). William was a bricklayer aged 35, born in Pakefield. He died on 16 September 1933, aged 58, and his wife died in 1944, both buried at St. Mary’s.
26. Sarbutt J. – Jack Albert John. The Blundeston Gravestone List records the death of this man on 7 October 1917, aged 36, the husband of Eva. He was a fisherman lost at sea with the SD Reliance.
He appears to be Albert John, presumably known as Jack, who married Eva May Barnes in 1906. In 1911 she was recorded at Oulton Road, Lowestoft with her children Evelyn (3) and Jack (9 months). That son might well have been the Jack C. Sarbutt who died on 10 February 1991. He was then aged 80. Probate records confirm that when Albert John died at sea on 7 Oct 1917, he was of The Street, Blundeston, and Probate was granted to his widow Eva Mary May Sarbutt. His estate amounted to £741. 15s. 5d. (see also under no. 92)
27. Slater G. – Ambrose Charles? He was baptised at Blundeston on 4th September 1898, the son of Ambrose and Gertrude Slater, fisherman. His father was the brother of Simon below. In 1911 Ambrose Sr. was recorded at 129 Rotterdam Road, Lowestoft with his wife and children Wilfred (17), William (15), Ambrose (12), Daniel (10), Simon (4) and Gilbert (2).
His wife Gertrude completed the census form, and Ambrose’s name is crossed out and the entry is noted that he was away trawl fishing. The name of their son Simon T. is also crossed out and noted that he was dead. His brother William John is remembered on Blundeston War Memorial.
28. Slater S. – Simon. He was baptised at Blundeston on 6th August 1882, the son of John and Eliza (nee Balls) Slater, labourer.
In 1891 he was living with his parents in Blundeston.
In 1901 he was recorded as an ordinary seaman on HMS Hearty stationed on the North Sea Fisheries off Lowestoft.
In 1911 he was recorded as a Petty Officer stationed at Harwich.
He married Alice Bolton, daughter of George Bolton, innkeeper, at St Mary’s on 9 August 1913.
29. Sutton A. – Arthur George. In 1911 he was living at Norton Subcourse with his wife Irene Rebecca (from Gorleston) and their three children. He was aged 26, born at Thurlton, and he was a fisherman.
One of their children was called Arthur William, but he was only 5 in 1911.
Arthur George Sutton was buried at Lowestoft in August 1944, aged 59, stated to be a market gardener late of 1 Market Lane, Blundeston. Irene Rebecca Sutton was buried at Blundeston in May 1959, aged 73.
30. Taylor R. – Reginald Rounce. He was baptised at Blundeston on 17th April 1891, the son of Harry and Louisa Ann (nee Rounce) Taylor, carpenter. In 1911 he was recorded as a bricklayer living with his parents at the Crown Inn, Blundeston.
He married Ellen Celia Cook, daughter of Samuel John Cook, baker, at St. Mary’s on 9 June 1919.
31. Ward E. – Ernest. He was born abt. 1881 in Blundeston (but not baptised there), the son of Robert and Mary Ann (nee Porter) Ward. In 1891 he was living in Blundeston with his parents, but he does not appear in 1901 or 1911. However he married Lily Eliza Knights at St. Mary’s in 1907, and in 1911 she was recorded at Blundeston living with her mother Clara Knights and her two daughters Lily (2) and Bessie (1). They had both been baptised in Blundeston, and their father had then been described as a fisherman. Ernest died on 22 June 1925, aged 42, and his wife Lily died in August 1973, aged 90, both buried at St. Mary’s.
32. Ward F. – Frederick William. He was baptised at Blundeston on 4th March 1900, the son of Frederick William and Myra Elizabeth (nee Horne) Ward, bricklayer. In 1911 he was living with his parents and siblings (Sidney Leonard Frederick (12), Alec Ernest (8),Frances Edith Myra (4) and Agnes Mary (2).) in Market Lane. His father was a bricklayer.
Frederick William Ward, born on 15 January 1900, joined the Navy for 12 years on 15 January 1918. He served on the Powerful, Temeraire and Victory 1 as an Able Seaman, and then joined the RFR on 9 Jan 1920, being demobbed on 1 Oct 1938.
33. Wright S. – Noah Stanley? In 1911 he was living in Lound Road with his parents Noah and Julia Neta. He was 18 and had been born in Bedingham, Norfolk, and he was working as an apprentice printer. His father was an army pensioner and postman.
Army
34. Adcock J. – James. In 1911 he was living at Hopton with his parents William and Ellen and 11 siblings. He was then aged 16 and had been born in Carbrooke, Norfolk. He was a farm labourer.
35. Addy J. – Benjamin John. Known as John and Jack. He was born abt. 1883 in Sutton, Norfolk. In 1901 and 1911 he was living in Blundeston with his mother Emily and her husband Charles Henry Fox whom she had married at Somerleyton in 1888. Benjamin was a farm labourer.
His record of service states that he joined the Infantry Bantams, Suffolk Regiment in 1916 when he was 32. He was 5ft. tall, and gave his next of kin as his mother Mrs Emily Fox.
36. Balls H. – Herbert. He was born abt. 1887 in Blundeston (but not baptised there), the son of Samuel and Eliza (nee Horn) Balls. In 1911 he was living with his parents and sister Lily (17) and niece Nelly Pearce (1) in Market Lane, and he was working as a garden labourer.
He joined the 3rd East Anglian Brigade RFA in September 1914, when he gave his address as The Gardens, Blundeston Lodge. His Soldier No. was 1040, changed later to 426 and then 895126. He was promoted to Corporal in March 1916, and to Sergeant on 30 September 1917. He was awarded the Military Medal in 1916. His wife was named as Jane on his enlistment papers.
37. Balls S. – Samuel Edward. He was baptised at Blundeston on 1st May 1881, the son of Samuel and Eliza Balls, fisherman. From 1881 to 1901 he was living with his parents in Blundeston. He was working as a general labourer in 1901.
He married Emily Louisa Mallett in 1905, and in 1911 they were living in Blundeston Street with their two children Marjorie (7) and Samuel (1). They were all living with Emily’s father James Mallett, a waggoner aged 60 from Grundisburgh. Samuel was a farm labourer. Samuel and Emily went on to have 6 more children who were all baptised at St. Mary’s.
38. Boast S. – Samuel. In 1911 Samuel, a farm labourer aged 34 from Linstead, Suffolk, was living at Lodge Cottages with his wife Emily.
39. Brown J. – James. In 1911 James, a cowman aged 26 from Cantley, was living in Blundeston with his wife Hannah and children James (4) and Russell (1).
40. Burgess C.- Clement Charles. In 1901 he was recorded as a gardener, aged 21 and born in Burgh Castle, lodging in Blundeston with James and Ann Willimott. Later that year he married Dora Priscilla Dix who was the daughter of the village policeman Charles Dix and his wife Mary. In 1881 the Dix family was living in the village, and they were still there in 1891 and 1901, by which time Charles was a pork butcher. Clement and Dora had their daughter Iris Molly baptised at St. Mary’s in 1908, but by 1911 they were living at 111 Wollaston Road, Lowestoft with their daughters Olive (9) and Iris (3).
(Per Medal Index – A Clement C. Burgess was a corporal (no.67153) in the 2nd London Regiment, and then, as No. 57072, in the Labour Corps. He was awarded the Victory and British Medals.)
41. Chapman G. – William George. In 1911 he was living in Flixton Road with his uncle and aunt James and Florence Chapman who came from London. William George was aged 16, born in Cookley, Suffolk, and he was working as a farm labourer.
From the Royal Artillery Attestations – he joined up at Lowestoft on 25 November 1914, he was re-engaged in Nov.1926, and enlisted with the RAF on 4 April 1940.
42. Clifford J. – John. He was baptised at Blundeston on 6th July 1879, the son of Charles and Elizabeth Clifford, fisherman.
In 1881 and 1891 he was living with his widowed mother in Blundeston.
In 1901 he was lodging with his aunt Mary Wright and her husband in Blundeston.
In 1911 he was living near The Plough at Blundeston with his wife Annie (nee Debbage) and son Walter (8 months). John was employed as a bricklayer’s labourer.
43. Coleby P. – Ralph? He was baptised at St. Mary’s on 6th July 1873, the son of James Coleby/Colbey, a shoemaker, and his wife Mary Ann. In 1911 he was living in Blundeston Street with his wife Laura and 5 children aged 11 to 5 months, all born in Blundeston. He was a bricklayer. (See also No.7 above)
His brother Albert James was baptised at St. Mary’s on 2nd January 1870, and in 1911 he was a beer house keeper in the village, and was living there with his wife Hannah and seven children aged 15 to 3. His sons Albert Henry (15), Claude Reginald (13), and Stanley George (12) were all born in the village and of an age to join up later. Albert Henry is remembered on the Blundeston War Memorial. (The other 4 children in 1911 were Gladys Ruth (11), Harold James (9), Vera Marjory (5) and Gilbert Frank (3))
(Per Medal Index – A Ralph Coleby served as private No. 61747 in the Royal Army Medical Corps. He served in the Balkans, and was awarded the Victory, British and Star Medals.
A Claude R. Coleby served as Private No. 1202 then 355788 in the Hampshire Regiment. He was awarded the Victory and British Medals.)
44. Cook R. – Joseph Raymond. In 1911 he was living at 1 Framsden Cottages with his grandfather Samuel Joseph William Cook, a retired baker from Lowestoft, and his second wife Gertrude Mildred (nee Nayler). Joseph Raymond was aged 12 and had been baptised in Blundeston on 2nd October 1898, the son of Samuel John Cook, a baker and Fanny Eliza (nee Thurlow). His parents were living in the Street – see No. 45 below. (Fanny Eliza Thurlow was born in Framsden, Suffolk abt. 1871 – presumably the cottages of that name in Blundeston were named after her birthplace)
He joined up on 24 August 1916 as Soldier No. 4010 with the 8th Yeoman Cyclists, and gave his mother Fanny Eliza Cook of Orm House, Kirkley Cliff Road, Lowestoft as his next of kin. He eventually was re-posted as a sapper no. 350141 with the Royal Engineers.
He married Winifred Eliza Lacey, a widow aged 24 and the daughter of Peter Parry, at St. Mary’s on 28 March 1921.
45. Cook S. – Samuel George. In 1911 he was living with his parents Samuel, a baker, and Fanny (see 44 above) in Blundeston Street. He was aged 15 and born in Lowestoft, and he was working as a plumber and painter. His brother Lancelot William (8) was also there.
46. Cooper S. – Sidney John. He was baptised at Blundeston on 24th November 1892, the son of Arthur Sidney Cooper and his wife Elizabeth Pearce (nee Cooper). In 1911 he was living with his parents at The Mill. He died on 16 April 1990, aged 97, and his wife Ethel Mary died in 1967, both buried at St. Mary’s.
47. Cumby E. – Ernest. In 1911 he was living in Back Lane, Lound with his wife Alice and daughters Vera (2) and Dora (7 months). He was a farm labourer aged 28, born in Hopton.
48. Double E. – Edgar John. In 1911 he was living with his parents Alfred and Mary Jane Double at Lodge Cottage. He was aged 17 and working as a gardener. He was born in Ipswich.
He joined up at Ipswich on 17 November 1914, and gave his father’s name as next of kin. He enlisted as Private No. 2807 with the 4th Btn. Suffolk Regiment, and he later became Acting Corporal No. M2/167701 in the Royal Army Service Corps Motor Transport. He served in Salonica.
49. Double F. – Frank Ernest. In 1911 he was living with his parents Alfred and Mary Jane Double at Lodge Cottage. He was aged 13 and he was born in Ipswich. He died on 15 October 1962, aged 66. His wife Annie died in 1980, aged 82. They were both buried at St. Mary’s. Frank had been a gardener at The Lodge and Prison.
He joined up at Ipswich on 23 February 1916 with the Essex Regiment (No.202086). He gave his mother’s name as next of kin. He was discharged in 1918 with hypertrophy of myocardia and arterial sclerosis. He received a gratuity of £25.
He married Annie Elizabeth Farman, daughter of James Farman, police officer (see 53 below), at St. Mary’s on 4 December 1920.
50. Double H. – George Henry. From the 1891 census he was a brother of the men mentioned at 48 and 49 above. He was born abt. 1889 in Gorleston and was living there with his mother in 1891. He was in the RN Reserve, Service No. DA 15619.
(Per Medal Index- George H. Double served as Private No. 3272 with the Suffolk Regiment and No. 665206 Labour Corps. He was awarded the Victory and British Medals.)
There was also a brother Horace who was living in Ipswich with the family in 1901. He was then aged 10. In 1911 he was living at Sudbourne Hall, Orford where he was a gardener.
(A H. Double served as Private no.5183 with Honourable Artillery Company 1st Btn.)
51. Double W. – William James. From the 1891 census he was a brother of the men mentioned at 48 and 49 above. He was born abt. 1887 in Gorleston and was living there with his mother in 1891.
(Per Medal Index – William J. Double served as Private No. G/39292 with the East Surrey Regiment, and as No. G/106327 with the Middlesex Regiment. He was awarded the Victory and British Medals. )
There was also a brother Walter who was living in Ipswich with the family in 1901. He was then aged 8. In 1911 he was living at Framingham nr. Norwich and working as a chauffeur.
(Per Medal Index – Walter Double served as Company Quarter Master Sergeant No. 12907 with the Essex Regiment, and was Mentioned in Despatches. He was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal.)
52. Durrant E. – Edward William. He was baptised at Blundeston on 2nd June 1895, the son of Thomas William and Caroline Elizabeth (nee Soanes) Durrant, labourer. In 1911 he was living in Chapel Road with his parents and siblings Alice (18), Florence (13) and Albert (3). His father was a farm bailiff.
(Per Royal Marine Medal Roll – Edward William Durrant served as a gunner with the Royal Marine Artillery on HMS Valiant and was discharged invalided. He was awarded the Victory and British Medals.)
OR – Elijah Durrant, who was a bachelor and fisherman aged 23 of Lound, son of James Durrant, when he married Dorothy Elizabeth Parker, daughter of William Parker, at St. Mary’s on 9 July 1919.
53. Farman H. – Henry James. The Blundeston Gravestones List records the death of James Farman on 9 September 1938, aged 66. He was a policeman. His wife Mary Ann Esther died on 9 December 1929, aged 66.
In 1911 they were recorded at Mellis, Eye with their children Annie Elizabeth (13), Henry James (11), William George (9) and Jack Bloomfield (7). James was then a policeman.
54. Firman G. – George. He was baptised at Blundeston on 1st November 1874, the son of William and Agnes Firman, fisherman.
In 1881 he was living with his parents, and in 1891 he was living with his widowed mother in Blundeston.
In 1901 he was living in Blundeston Street with his wife Nellie (nee Lewis) and son George (11 months), and he was employed as a bricklayer.
In 1911 he was living in Blundeston Street with his wife and four children – William (9), Janet (8), Herbert (5) and Richard (3). George was employed as a bricklayer. He died on 19 August 1939, aged 64, and was buried at St. Mary’s. The gravestone also commemorates his wife who died in 1956 and four of their infant sons.
55. Gillings C. – Charlie Stanley. He was baptised at Blundeston on 3rd January 1897, the youngest son of Charles and Ellen Gillings, labourer. In 1901 and 1911 he was living in Blundeston with his parents. In 1911 he was working as an errand boy. He was baptised as Charlie but named as Charles on the censuses. His brothers Sydney Charles and Cornelius are remembered on the Blundeston War Memorial.
He signed up on 5 June 1916 as Private No. 23640 with the Suffolk Regiment, giving his mother Ellen as his next of kin. He was transferred to the Labour Corps as No. 603004 in 1918. He was awarded the British and Victory Medals.
56. Haddingham F. – James? In 1911 he was living in Blundeston with his wife Edith and son Albert (12) (see War Memorial for Albert). James was aged 36 and a team-man on a farm, and he was born in Weston. According to the 1891 census he had a brother Frederick who was then aged 6 – could be that Frederick also came to Blundeston.
(Per Medal Index – A Frederick D. Haddingham served as Private No. 20191 in the Suffolk Regiment, and as Sapper No WR/277311 and 310046 in the Royal Engineers. He was awarded the Victory, British and Star Medals.)
57. Gissing L. – Leonard. In 1911 he was living in Flixton. He was aged 21 and born in Leiston, and he was working as a cowman on a farm. He was boarding with Ernest Gissing (aged 27 from Theberton) and his wife Hannah, and was presumably a relative.
(Per Medal Index – Leonard Gissing served as Private No. 17926 in the Suffolk Regiment, then as Lance Corporal No. 97376 with the Liverpool Regiment, and then as Lance Corporal No. 42466 with the South Staffordshire Regiment.)
He married Eliza Ridgwell, daughter of Thomas Ridgwell (see 83 and 84 below), at St. Mary’s on 29 October 1919. He was then described as a horseman aged 30, the son of Joseph Gissing.
58. Horn L. – Leslie Peter. In 1911 he was living in Blundeston Street with his father James and step-mother Edith Jane (who was his mother’s sister – his mother being Mary Anna Boyce.) Leslie was then aged 17, and although his birthplace was given as Blundeston, he wasn’t baptised there. He was working as a house painter.
(Per Medal Index – Leslie P. Horn served as Private No. 2351 with the Norfolk Regiment, and then as No. 43524 with the Northamptonshire Regiment. He was awarded the Victory and British Medals.)
59. Howes E. – Ernest William. He was baptised at Blundeston on 5th September 1886, the son of Frederick Robert and Hannah Ada (nee Holmes) Howes. In 1911 he and his brothers Frederick and William mentioned below were all living in Blundeston Street with their parents. Ernest was working as a gardener.
60. Howes F. – Frederick. He was baptised on 7th May 1899 – parents as at 59 above. In 1911 he was at school.
He joined the RAF as No. 165969 on 10 May 1918 when he was described as a motor boat builder.
He married Helena Beatrice Cooper, daughter of Robert Cooper, at St. Mary’s on 3 March 1923.
61. Howes R. – Robert George. He was baptised on 3rd May 1891– parents as at 59 above. In 1911 he was recorded at the Royal Artillery Barracks in Colchester as a Private with the Royal Engineers.
62. Howes W. – William Stanley. He was baptised on 6th August 1893– parents as at 59 above. In 1911 he was working as a gardener.
63. James H. – Herbert. In 1891 he was living at Bunkers Hill, Lound with his mother and siblings.
In 1901 he was living in Blundeston Street with his parents and siblings. They were living next door to the Willimott family although Herbert’s future wife Blanche was living at 194 London Road, Kirkley where she was a servant to Elizabeth Cornish, a draper and milliner.
In 1911 he was living in Blundeston Street with his parents and siblings William (30), Albert (21) and Laura (12). He was then working as a horse man on a farm, but when he married later that year he was described as a seaman.
His parents were William George James and Ellen Elizabeth (nee Helsdon), and he was baptised at Lound on 25 May 1884. He married Blanche Elizabeth Willimott at Blundeston on 26th December 1911. He died on 20 April 1980, aged 95. His wife had died in 1966. They were both buried at St. Mary’s. He was known as Toby.
He joined the Army Reserve on 14 September 1916 when his address was given as Woods Loke, Flixton. His birth date was 6 May 1884, and he was a grocer’s carter. He suffered a gun shot wound to his thigh on 17 Feb.1917 at Rouen, and then a severe GSW to his head and back on 24 April 1917, and was discharged as invalided in Nov.1917. His records are under the Royal Naval Division Service.
64. Jermy C. – Cecil Edward. In 1911 James and Amy Jermy were living in Blundeston with their 10 children. James, aged 43, was from Belton and was a nurseryman.
Their son Cecil Edward was aged 12 and had been born in Blundeston. He was at school in 1911. He was baptised at Blundeston on 2 October 1898. The surname was then spelled Jermay.
The 10 children in 1911 were – Walter (19), Violet (17), Amy (14), Cecil (12), Thomas (11), Lester (10), Laura (8), Gertrude (5), Charles (2) and Roger (1).
65. Jermy T. – Thomas was another son of James and Amy, (see No. 64 above) and he was aged 11 in 1911. He had also been born in Blundeston. He was at school in 1911. He was baptised as Thomas Hugh Lancelot Jermay at Blundeston on 3 December 1899. He died on 21 December 1967, aged 68, and his wife Evelyn Rose died in 1980, aged 81. They were both buried at St. Mary’s.
66. Jermy W. – Walter was another son, aged 19 in 1911 (see No. 64 above). He had been born in Lowestoft, and was working in the nursery for his father. Walter James Jermy died on 17 November 1964, aged 72.
He married Ellen Rose Rushmere, daughter of William Edward Rushmere (see 25 above), at St. Mary’s on 18 April 1923.
67. Larkin W. – This surname does not appear in any Blundeston records available to me, but in 1911 a William Larkins was living on the Rock Estate at Oulton Broad with his wife (Emma) Eliza and son Owen William. William Sr. was aged 48, born in Lowestoft, but his son Owen William was then 12. He was born at Oulton Broad on 11 June 1898, and baptised at Oulton on 10 July 1898 when his father was described as a gardener on the Rock Estate. William and Emma Eliza (nee Wigg) had married at Oulton in 1895. Her father was William Wigg, a seaman.
Per Medal Index – Owen W. Larkins served as Private No. 51975 with the Suffolk Regiment. He was awarded the Victory and British Medals.
68. LeWarne J. – John William. In 1911, aged 11, he was living at Flixton with his parents William John and Kate, and his two sisters – Winifred Irene (14) and Joyce Mary (9). His father came from Cornwall, and was working as a chauffeur. John was at school. He was baptised at Blundeston on 8 October 1899 when his father was described as a coachman.
69. Lown G. – Alfred George. In 1911 Walter George and Clara Lown were living in Flixton Road, Blundeston with their 8 children. Walter George was aged 36, born in Yarmouth, and he was working as a cowman on a farm. One of his sons was Alfred George who was 13 in 1911 and was working as an errand boy. He was baptised at Blundeston 3rd October 1897. Alfred George’s brother John is remembered on Blundeston War Memorial. (In 1911 the 8 children were named as Victor (17), William (15), Alfred (13), John (11), Edith (8), Ada (6), Walter (4) and Emily (7 months)
Per Medal Index – Alfred G. Lown served as Private No. 3/7930 with the Norfolk Regiment. He served in the Balkans, and was awarded the Victory, British and Star Medals.
He married May Emily Georgina Cooper, daughter of Robert Cooper, at St. Mary’s on 19 November 1921.
70. Lown V. – Victor William. In 1911 he was aged 17, and although his birthplace was given as Blundeston, he was baptised at Lound on 25 March 1894, the son of Walter George and Clara Lown of Blundeston. He was a farm labourer. He was living with his parents in 1911 (See No. 69 above.) His brother John is remembered on Blundeston War Memorial.
Per Medal Index – Victor W. Lown served as Private No.43039 with the Suffolk Regiment Depot. He was awarded the Victory and British Medals.
71. Middleton G. – George Whitfield. In 1911 he was aged 19 and working as a solicitor’s clerk. He was living with his parents Arthur William and Harriet and sister Daisy. His father was a fruit grower and they were all living at Earns Dale, Blundeston. George’s birthplace was given as Blundeston, but he wasn’t baptised there.
72. Naylor H. – Harry John Johnson. In 1911 he was living in Blundeston with his widowed father Harry John Johnson Naylor (62). Harry jr. was aged 33 and was born in London. He was working as a groom.
Per Medal Index – Harry J.J.Naylor served as Private No. 546 with the Royal Irish Regiment, and then as No. 108957 with the Labour Corps. He was awarded the Victory and British Medals.
He married Clara Ann Woodcock, daughter of Robert Woodcock, on 29 July 1916 at St. Mary’s.
73. Osborne P. – Percy. He was baptised at Blundeston on 2nd October 1881, the son of James and Ellen Jane (nee Cone) Osborne, bricklayer. In 1901 he was living with his parents in Blundeston.
In 1911 Percy and his wife Leah (nee Richmond) were staying with Charles and Priscilla Jennings at Powers Hall End, Witham, Essex. Percy was employed as a bricklayer. Percy died on 29 December 1966, aged 85, his wife Leah having died in April 1966. They were both buried at St. Mary’s.
74. Parker W. – Wesley. He was the son of James William and Ellen Fanny (nee Bunn) who had married at St. Mary’s in June 1898, both being from well-established local families. However James and Ellen then moved to Shoeburyness in Essex where James opened a business as a greengrocer. Wesley was born there in 1899, and was living there with his parents in 1901 and 1911. However grandparents and many other relatives were still in Blundeston which might account for his name being on the list. (See also No. 20)
75. Pearce H. – Herbert. He was baptised at Blundeston on 3rd December 1877, the son of Dykes Alexander and Martha Ann Pearce, farmer.
In 1881 and 1891 he was living with his parents in Blundeston.
In 1911 Herbert was recorded as a widower living in Blundeston Street with his son Stanley (5). He was then working as a team-man on a farm. His sister Ethel was living with him as his housekeeper. His wife Nellie (or Ellen) May (nee Balls) had died in 1910.
He joined up at Woolwich on 22 January 1915, and served in France as Soldier No. 191554 with the 122nd Brigade of the Royal Garrison Artillery. He gave his next of kin as his niece Lilly Balls of Market Lane, Blundeston, and named both his surviving children on his Enlistment papers.
76. Pearce J. – Jack William. He was baptised at Blundeston on 4th September 1898, the son of John and Agnes (nee Firman) Pearce, bricklayer. In 1901 and 1911 he was living with his parents in Blundeston.
Jack William Dykes (sic) Pearce of Blundeston Street signed up on 7 August 1916. He was over 6ft. tall, and said to be growing rapidly. He gave his father’s name as next of kin. He qualified as a shoeing smith at the School of Farriery, Woolwich. He served with the Royal Garrison Btn. of the Suffolk Regiment (No. 48561), the Royal Engineers, the Hampshire Regiment and the Grenadier Guards (No.31988) in France.
77. Pearman R. – Ralph Randell. He was baptised at Blundeston on 5th September 1886, the son of Henry and Jesse Pearman, painter. In 1911 he was working as a painter and living with his parents and brother Stewart (23) in Blundeston. His father was then working as a builder.
78. Pearson J. – Robert John. He was baptised at Blundeston on 5th November 1883, the son of David Samuel and Harriet Pearson, labourer. In 1911 he was recorded as John, a gardener’s labourer aged 28, living with his widowed father and brother Ernest (24) in Blundeston. His brother Ernest is remembered on Blundeston War Memorial.
79. Pearson W. – William George. He was baptised at Blundeston on 7th December 1884, the son of David and Harriet Pearson, labourer. In 1901 he was living in Blundeston with his parents. In 1911 a George Pearson, aged 25 from Blundeston, was recorded as a dining car attendant on the GWR lodging in Yardley, Warwickshire. His brother Ernest is remembered on Blundeston War Memorial.
80. Punchard H. – Herbert. In 1911 he was recorded as a farm labourer, aged 34 from Gillingham, living in Blundeston with his wife Agatha and 6 children,- Florence (8), Agatha (7), Herbert (5), Mabel (4), William (2) and Robert (6 months).
81. Ribbens W. – William Ribbans? In 1911 he was living in Gorleston with his parents Thomas and Ruth and 6 siblings – Ada (23), Annie (21), Herbert (20), Marguerite (17), Alfred (16), and Elsie (13). William was aged 19, born in Gorleston, and he was working as a grocer’s assistant.
82. Richmond P. – Philip Tom. He was baptised at Blundeston on 4th June 1882, the son of James and Martha (nee Miller) Richmond, brickmaker. In 1911 he was living with his parents in Blundeston Street, and he was working as a bricklayer’s labourer. He married Phoebe Bolton at St. Mary’s on 25 June 1911. He died on 26 February 1949, aged 66, and his wife died in 1952. They were both buried at St. Mary’s.
83. Ridgewell E. – Ernest John. In 1911, aged 21, he was living near the School House in Blundeston with his parents Thomas Walter and Julia and four siblings – Walter (29), Ronald Bertie (25), Maud Mabel (23) and Elsie (15). He had been born in Blundeston, and was working as a shepherd. He was baptised at St. Mary’s on 6 October 1889, the son of Thomas Walter and Julia Ridgewell, coachman.
84. Ridgewell R. – Ronald Bertie. In 1911, aged 25, he was living near the School House in Blundeston with his parents Thomas Walter and Julia and four siblings (see No.83 above). He had been born in Beccles, and was working as a gardener’s labourer.
Per Medal Index – Ronald B. Ridgwell (sic) served as a driver (No. T4/143217) in the Army Service Corps. He was awarded the Victory and British Medals.
85. Rix A.E. – Alfred Ernest. Born abt. 1890 in Blundeston. (Bapt. 1 June 1890, the son of William and Eliza Rix, bricklayer.) In 1911 he was recorded as a footman to Conrad Meyendorff, an attache to the Russian Embassy in London. He married Eleanor Bullen in 1913, and joined the Machine Gun Corps (Reg’t. No. 192768) in 1915. When he joined up he was described as an omnibus conductor.
Per Medal Index – he served as Private No. 28935 in the Middlesex Regiment as well as serving in the Machine Gun Corps. He was awarded the Victory and British Medals.
86. Rix A.V. – Albert Victor. Born abt. 1888 in Lowestoft. In 1911 he was living in Toxteth Park, Liverpool with his wife Evelyn Agnes. He was employed as a ship’s steward.
87. Rix E.J. – Edward James. Born abt. 1876 at Merton Colliery, Easington, Durham. He married Mary Edith Coles on 2 November 1912 in Brackley, Northants., and he joined the Royal Garrison Artillery on 8 November 1915 as No. 65457. He died on 6 September 1947, and his wife Mary Edith died in 1974, aged 92. They were both buried at St. Mary’s.
88. Rix G.F. – George Frederick. Born abt. 1884 in Lowestoft. In 1901 he was living in London and working as a kennel boy. In 1911 he was living at West Eaton Place, London as the butler to Richard Von Arkovy from Hungary. He died on 28 December 1966, aged 81. He had been a valet to the Rothschild family. His wife Blanche had died in 1942. They were both buried at St. Mary’s.
He joined the Royal Army Service Corps (No.14/127621) and was batman to Major T M Langton in 1915. He served in Egypt in 1918, and was awarded the British, Star and Victory Medals.
89. Rix H.C. – Henry Charles. Born abt, 1894 in Blundeston. (Bapt. 3 June 1894, the son of William and Eliza Rix, bricklayer.) In 1901 he was living with his parents in Blundeston.
He joined the RAF (No. 61495) as a pilot in 1918 and was demobbed on 5 Feb 1919. His address was 6 Albion Hill, Lewisham, SE13. His birth date was given as 25 Jan 1894.
90. Rix S.W. – Sidney William. Born abt.1880 in Lowestoft. He married Sarah Ann Lee at St. Mary’s on 22 Dec. 1906 when he was described as a seaman RN. In 1911 he was living in Forest Gate, London with his wife Sarah Ann (nee Lee) and two children. He was working as a bath attendant for LCC.
He served as an Able Seaman Gunlayer in the North Sea and Mediterranean Theatres from 1914 to 1919.
(N.B. Rix family. All the above were sons of William Henry and Eliza Rix. William was from Lowestoft, but by 1891 the family had settled in Blundeston, and they were still there in 1911 by which time only two daughters – Beatrice Ellen (26) and Grace Maud (8) (out of 13 children) were still at home. William was described as a bricklayer.
91. Rudd W. – Walter Pearman. In 1911, aged 15, he was living in Blundeston with his parents Levi and Caroline Eliza (nee Pearman). He was working as a garden labourer, and his birthplace was given as Blundeston but he wasn’t baptised there.
He joined up at Bury St. Edmunds on 23 August 1914, and served as Soldier No. 12201 with the Suffolk Regiment. He was awarded the British War Medal and Victory Medal. He served in France, and received a gunshot wound to the side of his head in 1917.
92. Sarbutt H. – Henry William? A search for Albert John (See also No. 26) in 1891 reveals him aged 9 living at Redisham (where he was born) with his parents Charles and Mary Ann and 5 siblings, one of whom was a brother Henry William, then aged 5 and born in Brampton.
Another Sarbutt brother, William Charles, married Lavinia May Hambling at St. Mary’s on 1 January 1913. He was then aged 37 and a fisherman, and she was 26.
93. Soanes H. – Harry. In 1911 he was living in Blundeston with his wife Emma and six children – Royal (8), Harry (7), Ellen (6), Elijah (5), Anna (3), and Lilly (8 months) (all born in Aldeby). Harry was aged 28 and had been born in Aldeby, and he was working as a horseman on a farm.
94. Spindler S. – Samuel. The Blundeston Gravestones List records that Samuel died on 16 Dec. 1965, aged 73. His wife Mabel Edith died in 1957. A birth year of 1892 ties in to a Samuel who was recorded in 1911 aged 19 living in Westleton with his mother Maria and brother Thomas (22). Samuel was working as a farm labourer and had been born in Westleton. There is a possible further link to Blundeston in that in 1911 an Emma Spindler aged 63 from Westleton was visiting the Gissing family in Flixton Road.
Per Medal Index – Samuel Spindler served as Private No. 17650 with the Suffolk Regiment. He served in France, and was awarded the Victory, British and Star Medals.
95. Taylor H. – Horatio. In 1911 he was living with his parents Harry and Louisa Anne at The Crown Inn where his father was described as a beer-house keeper. Horatio was aged 26 and was a carpenter. He was baptised at Blundeston on 17 April 1885 at which time his father was a carpenter.
He died on 23 February 1957, aged 71, and his wife Gertrude Eliza died on 11 February 1963. They were both buried at St. Mary’s.
96. Turner H. – Herbert William. In 1911 he was living at Hall Cottage with his widowed mother Mary Louisa. He was aged 30 and had been born in Ipswich, but his mother was from Blundeston. He was a farm bailiff.
He joined up at Lowestoft on 14 January 1916. He gave his address as Hall Cottage, and his next of kin was his wife Annie Elizabeth (nee Henry) who he had married at Mutford Registry Office on 3 September 1914. They had a daughter Olive Annie who had been born at Oulton on 4 May 1915. His wife had a son Edward Henry who had been born in 1905. He served as Soldier No. G/19692 with the 13th Btn. of the Queen’s (Royal West Surrey Regiment) in France, and was discharged as medically unfit in February 1918. He was awarded a short term war pension for a year.
97. Venn R. – Robert. In 1901 he was living in Lowestoft with his mother Rene and her brothers John and James Flaxman. Robert was then aged 17 and had been born in Colchester, and his mother gave her birthplace as Flixton, although her brothers were from Haddiscoe. She wasn’t baptised at Blundeston. In 1911 Rene, a widow aged 48, was living in Blundeston Street with her brothers, but Robert wasn’t there and doesn’t appear elsewhere. (There is a marriage in 1885 in the Mutford area between Frederick Venn and Reena Flaxsmith (sic).)
98. Waller A. – Walter Allan. He was baptised at Somerleyton on 22nd January 1888, the son of Walter John and Ellen (nee Turrell) Waller, shopkeeper. In 1911 he was living with his parents in Blundeston where his father was a grocer and draper, and he was an assistant in the shop.
He joined up on 10 December 1915, giving his father’s name as next of kin. He served as Soldier No. 26555 in the Suffolk Regiment, and as Soldier No. 40744 in the 313th Protection Company of the Royal Defence Corps.
99. Ward F. – Frederick William. The father of Frederick William listed at No. 32 above. He was baptised at Somerleyton on 12th December 1875, the son of Sarah (sic) Ward.
In 1881 and 1891 he was living in Blundeston with John and Susan Wilson and described as their son.
In 1901 he was living with his wife and two sons in Market Lane, Blundeston. He was working as a bricklayer.
The family, now with five children, was still in Market Lane in 1911. Frederick was working as a bricklayer, and he had been married to Myra (nee Horne) for 12 years.
OR – Frank Robert. He was baptised at Somerleyton on 7th October 1883, the son of Robert Ward and Susannah (nee Vincent) of Blundeston, labourer.
In 1891 he was living with his parents in Blundeston. In 1901 he was working as a carter on a farm and living at Mundesley in Norfolk with his parents.
In 1911 Frank Robert Ward, aged 27 and born in Somerleyton, was recorded as a chauffeur living at Vorwood (Garage) New Malden with his wife Daisy Gertrude. She was 22 and had been born in Peckham, London. They had been married a year.
100. Ward L. – Lavington Thomas. He was baptised at Blundeston on 3rd August 1873, the son of Thomas and Martha Ward, fisherman. He was living in Blundeston with his parents from 1881 to 1901. He was described as a general labourer in 1891 and 1901.In 1911 he was living at 23 Bertie Road, Norwich with his wife Grace (nee Garwood) who he had married at Somerleyton in 1910. He was working as a miller in 1911. His brother Hubert William is remembered on Blundeston War Memorial.
OR – Lambert. In 1891 and 1901 he was living with his parents Robert and Mary Ann (nee Porter) in Blundeston. He was described as a fish curer and gardener in 1901. In 1911 he was recorded as a fish curer living in Blundeston with his wife Edith (nee White). They had been married at St Mary’s in 1910.He died on 22 November 1950, aged 67. His birthplace was given as Blundeston, but he wasn’t baptised there.
Per Medal Index – Lambert Ward served as Private No. G12869 in the Queen’s Regiment. He was awarded the Victory and British Medals.
101. Ward S. – Sidney Leonard Frederick. He was baptised at Blundeston on 5th February 1899, the son of Frederick and Myra Elizabeth (nee Horne) Ward, labourer. In 1911 he was living in Market Lane with his parents and siblings. (See No. 32 and No. 99 above)
Per Medal Index – Sidney Leonard Ward served as an Able Seaman (No. 4/3436) in the RNVR. He was awarded the 1914 Star and Clasp, Victory and British War Medals.
102. Warnes S. – Robert Samuel? He was born on 15 December 1892 at Kessingland, the son of Robert and Margaret (nee Moyes). His father was a fisherman who had been born in Somerleyton, the son of Elijah and Caroline, and the family was living in Kessingland in 1901 and 1911. Robert Samuel married Louie Mary Stannard in 1920, and died in Lowestoft in 1951.
Per Medal Index – Robert S. Warnes served as Private No. 17285 in the Suffolk Regiment. He was awarded the Victory, British and Star Medals.
103. White T. – Thomas. He was baptised at Blundeston on 2nd June 1889, the son of William Benjamin and Eliza White, tradesman. In 1911 he was living in Lound Road with his widowed mother and working as a labourer.
104.White W. – William Benjamin. Brother of Thomas above, born abt. 1876 in Hull. From 1881 to 1901 he was living in Blundeston with his parents. He was described as a bricklayer in 1891 and 1901.
There is no trace of William In 1911, but his wife Alice (nee Pearson) was living in Blundeston Street with their four children, all under 5. There was a burial of William White, a bricklayer aged 90, in January 1967. His wife Alice Mary had died in 1949.
He joined up on 6 June 1916, giving his next of kin as his wife Alice May (nee Pearson) who he married at Blundeston on 21 March 1903. He also listed his five children: William Benjamin, Stanley John, Alice May, Frank Arthur and Marjery Annie. He served as Private No. 201772 with the Suffolk Regiment, as No. 29483 with the 4th Northants., and as No. 75459 with the Royal Defence Corps (466th Protection Company) in France, and received a severe gunshot wound on 23 April 1917. He received the Victory and British Medals.
105. Wigg K. – Kerry. He was baptised at Blundeston on 22 March 1896, the son of George and Eliza Wigg of Flixton, farmer. In 1901 he was recorded as Kerry aged 5 living at Hall Farm, Flixton with his mother and siblings Campbell (25), Beckham (23), Maud (20), Hilda (18), Ada (17), and Elsie (14). His father was away in Cumberland. In 1911 he was at private school at 142 North Parade, Lowestoft where the headmaster was John Clegg, a clergyman.
He served in the Royal Horse Artillery as Gunner No. 153821, and received the Victory and British Medals.
106. Wilson A. – I have been unable to trace any Wilson’s with these initials in Blundeston. George Albert was baptised there on 3 Jan 1897, the son of Oscar and Lizzie, and they were all living in the village in 1911. There was also Albert Benjamin who was born in the village in 1901, the son of Albert and Alice. All the Wilsons who were living in the village were related.
George Albert Wilson married Edith May Lown, daughter of Walter Lown (see 69 and 70 above), at St Mary’s on 8 September 1923.
OR – An Albert Arthur is mentioned on the Somerleyton list, as is Egremont, both sons of Henry and Clarissa. They were a Somerleyton based family over many years, but perhaps the sons had worked in Blundeston.
OR – In 1911 an Arthur Wilson, aged 14 and born in Oulton, was living in Lowestoft with his mother Jane. He was an apprentice coach builder. In 1901 he was living in Oulton with his parents Jacob and Jane. Jacob was born in Blundeston in 1863, the son of James and Elizabeth (nee Sewell), and he was working as a smacksman in 1901. From the Oulton Parish Register they had other sons – George Arthur was born on 9 August 1893 and baptised on 28 August 1895. His brother John Samuel was baptised on the same day, and there were other brothers – George Alfred born on 6 October 1891 (but died in 1892 aged 5 months), and Charles William born on 8 September 1889, and Walter Edward born on 6 September 1887. Arthur wasn’t baptised at Oulton. Jacob was a cousin of the Wilson’s who were living in Blundeston at the turn of the century.
107. Wilson E. (See 106 above)
OR – Ernest Edward Wilson who was born in Somerleyton in 1872, the son of Robert and Thirza (nee Heavers). In 1911 he was a single man and iron turner aged 32 lodging in Gainsborough with Edward Samuel Wilson (sic) and his wife Edith Emma, who was Ernest Edward’s sister.
108. Woodcock H. – Harry. In 1911, aged 15 and a cow boy on a farm, he was living in Lound Road with his parents Harry and Helen (nee Lincoln) and four siblings – Robert (14), Gladys (12), Doris (11) and Lewis (3). He had been born in Battersea, but his parents were both local, his father having been born in Blundeston in 1869. Harry Woodcock was buried at St. Mary’s in May 1961. He had been a slaughterer and milkman.
109. Woodcock R. – Robert. In 1911, aged 14 and an errand boy, he was living in Lound Road with his parents Harry and Helen and four siblings (See No. 108 above). He had been born in Battersea, but his parents were both local, his father having been born in Blundeston in 1869.
110. Wright H. – Harold. From the Blundeston Gravestone List, he died on 5 October 1925, aged 28 and was buried at St. Mary’s. He was another son of Noah and Neta Wright – see no. 33 above. In 1911 he was named as Albert Edward Harold, aged 13 and born in Weymouth, and he was working as a farm labourer, living with his parents in Lound Road. He died on 5 October 1925, aged 28. There is a family grave for him and his parents and brother Herbert in the churchyard.
Per Medal Index – Albert E.H. Wright served as a Gunner No. 115716 with the Royal Garrison Artillery. He was awarded the Victory and British Medals.
OR – an Albert H.E.Wright served as Private No. 49980 with the Northamptonshire Regiment, and as No. 42381 with the Suffolk Regiment. He was awarded the Victory and British Medals.
111. Youngman W. – William? The Blundeston Gravestone List records the death of Lily Youngman on 15 February 1964, aged 85. She was the licensee of The Plough.
In 1911 a Lily Youngman aged 32 from Haddiscoe was recorded there with her husband William, a night watchman aged 34 from Haddiscoe. They had a son Arthur aged 11 months.
However also in 1911 a Lily Mary Youngman (nee Hunn) aged 28 from Lowestoft, was living at 18 John Street, Lowestoft with her husband William James, a drift net fisherman aged 33 from Lowestoft. They had a son William, aged 10, and a daughter Irene Vera, aged 4.
On balance the first alternative seems to be the most likely family as that Lily’s age would tie in to the burial age mentioned above.
(N.B. All the above details have been sourced from the Blundeston and other local Censuses and Parish Records and my own family history research. The original list from which the names were taken is displayed in Blundeston Village Hall, but it gives only surnames and initials so many of the identifications are simply based on the fact that the families were living in the vicinity in 1911 or before. Some of the links are tenuous, particularly to the families which didn’t have any clear link to Blundeston, but the families listed were the only ones with the relevant surname in the area. If anyone has more detailed information or can identify the men who have not been traced I would be pleased to hear from them.
The references to 1891, 1901 and 1911 are to the censuses which were taken in those years on the following dates – 5 April 1891, 31 March 1901 and 2 April 1911.)
Trevor Wright
Driffield
August 2014.
Additional Note – September 2014
Some of the initials quoted on the Roll of Honour Board do not tie in to the men of that surname who were linked to the village.
It must be borne in mind that we do not know the sources of the information given to the person who painted the Board, so it is quite possible that errors occurred at that time.
I have now been able to identify other possible contenders for the men who were listed, and further research of the Military Records on the FindMyPast and Ancestry websites has revealed more details about the service records of some of the men on the list.
References to the “Medal Index” are to the WW1 Medal Index Cards which generally provide only the name and Regiment details, and it isn’t possible to tie those details to an individual without more information. I have included such information in those cases where it seems most likely to relate to the person on this list because of the uncommon names or the link to a local regiment, but the information must be considered in that light and not as conclusive evidence that it does relate to the person listed.