Roll of Honour - Kent - Tunbridge Wells - World War 1

The Royal British Legion

Frank had enlisted for service at Maidstone. He was a L/Corporal (#29772) with the Norfolk Regiment 7th Battalion, who died of wounds in France April 11, 1917 at Vimy Ridge. He had been born 1893 at Wyborne Cottage, Tunbridge Wells. He was the son of Albert and Lucy Baitup of 51 Nelson Rd., Tunbridge Wells. His brother Frederick Henry Baitup (#3671) with the Queens West Kent Regiment had also served in the war but survived.

Arthur was born in Tunbridge Wells 1891 and living in the town at his time of enlistment at Maidstone, Kent. He died in France October 5, 1916 and was a Private (#7967). At the time of his death he was with the London Regiment, 13th (County of London) Battalion (Princess Louise’s Kensington Battalion) but was formerly 12500 with the 8th Middlesex Regiment. Before the war he worked as a greengrocer. He was the son of Edward and Jane Baker of 12 Culverden Square, Tunbridge Wells.

No further information currently available

Charles was born in Tunbridge Wells and was living in the town at the time of enlisting in Tunbridge Wells. He was a Private (#228099) with the London Regiment, 1st (City of London) Battalion, (Royal Fusiliers) at the time of his death in France November 2, 1918. He had formerly been 880, The Queens Royal West Kent Regiment.

Ernest was age 36 when he died in France February 9, 1917. He was at the time of his death a Private (#G/23407) with the Duke of Cambridge’s Own (Middlesex Regiment), 11th Battalion, He is recorded at the Arras Memorial (Bay 7). Ernest was the son of Stephen Baker (1853-1933) of 3 Bayham Rd., Tunbridge Wells and the husband of Annie Kate Baker of Ivy Cottage, Tangier Lane, Frant Forest, Tunbridge Wells. Ernest had been born at Frant, Sussex and was living in Tunbridge Wells when he enlisted there. His mother was Harriett Baker (nee Underhill (1855-1893). Ernest was baptised July 11, 1880 at Frant. Before the war Ernest worked as a gardener’s labourer and his father was a carpenter. He is also recorded on a plaque at St Marks Church in Tunbridge Wells.

[In most records he is listed as Herbert Fullerton BAKER] Corporal 554396, 16th (County of London) Battalion (Queen's Westminster Rifles), London Regiment formerly 2912, 5th Battalion, London Regiment. Killed in action 30 April 1918. Born Brentford, resident Tunbridge Wells, enlisted London. Prior to volunteering for service he was the Landlord of the Swan Public House, the Pantiles, Tunbridge Wells. Awardfed the Military Medal [London Gazette 10 April 1918]. No known grave. Commemorated on Jerusalem Memorial, Israel and Palestine (including Gaza). Panel 48.

Extract from Kent & Sussex Courier - Friday 31 May 1918, page 8:

KILLED IN ACTION.

BAKER. Corpl. H F. Baker. MM killed in action on April 30th, 1918, at Palestine "R.I.P." "Greater love hath no man"

Harold was age 27 when he died December 30, 1917 while serving with the Army Service Corp, 103 1st M. T. Coy. He was a Private (#T4/197702) and is recorded at the Chatby Memorial at Alexandria, Egypt. He was the son of Frederick William and Jane Baker of #1 Cobden Cottages, London Rd., Tunbridge Wells. At the time of enlistment he was an optician and living in Tunbridge Wells. He was born in Tunbridge Wells and enlisted there. Military records state he died at sea. Records show that Harold married Lily Rogers (1891-1924) in September 1916. Harold Valentine Baker was one of 2, 700 people aboard the HMT ARAGON. The 9, 588 ton liner ARAGON under the command of Captain F. Bateman was taken over by the Government from the Royal Mail Steam Packet Company during WW1. She was employed as an auxiliary transport and in December 1917 he was bringing reinforcements to the army operating in Palestine under General Allenby. The vessel sailed via Marseille on her way to Alexandria. On arrival at Alexandria on December 30, 1917 the ship was permitted to enter harbour but was later ordered out again. She anchored outside without protection from submarine attack, for which she was an easy target. The ship was torpedoed and sunk by a submarine with a total loss of 610 persons (including Harold) of whom 19 were crew, including Captain Bateman. The British destroyer ATTACK was also mined and sunk off Alexandria by German UC34 while rescuing the survivors of the ARAGON.

George was born April 1892 in St Barnabas, Tunbridge Wells and enlisted there. He died in France November 19, 1917 and was a Private (#72028) with the Royal Army Medical Corp. In 1901 he was living at 14 Granville Rd., Tunbridge Wells with his parents John and Mary A. Balcombe (nee Langridge) and seven siblings, all of whom were born in Tunbridge Wells. In 1911 he was living with his parents at the same address as 1901 and working as a gardener. His father was a coachman. George enlisted for service October 1915 at age 23 while living at Tower Lodge Cottage, Sundown Park, Tunbridge Wells. He was described in his service records as being 5 ft 7" tall and that his next of kin was his wife Sarah Elizabeth Balcombe (nee Haymon) of Tower Cottage, Tunbridge Wells, whom he had married December 5, 1914.

His personal effects were sent to his wife Sarah who was residing at the time at 49 South View Rd., High Brooms, Tunbridge Wells. He is also listed on the St James Church plaque as George W Balcombe.

Charles was living in Tunbridge Wells when he enlisted for service there. He was injured and sent back to England and died at home October 13, 1918. At the time of his death he was a gunner (#245336) with the Royal Horse Artillery and Royal Field Artillery but before had been TT/0843 with the A. V. Corps, T. F. He is also listed on the plaque in St James Church as Charles E Baldock.

James was a Private (#G/4643) with the 1st Battalion, Queens Own Royal West Kent Regiment who at age 29 died in France July 22, 1916. He is recorded at the Thiepval Memorial (pier and face 11c). He was the husband of Harriett Baldwin (nee Sherlock) of 29 George St., Quarry Hill, Tonbridge. He was a resident of High St., Tonbridge at the time of enlisting at Maidstone. He had enlisted for service in November 1914 and described as being 5" 4" tall. He had married Harriett December 25th at Tonbridge and the couple had two children George and Elsie Annie. James had been in hospital during the war on two occasions due to problems with varicose veins and bronchitis.

William was born at Christchurch, Tunbridge Wells 1895 and was living in Tunbridge Wells at the time of his enlistment. William was a Corporal (#T/6054) with The Buffs (East Kent Regiment) 5th Battalion, when he was killed in action with the Mesopotamian Expeditionary Force in the Asiatic Theatre of war January 11, 1917. He had formerly been #982 with the 4th Battalion, The Queens Royal West Kent Regiment. He was the son of William Alfred (a jouyneyman butcher in 1901) (1867-1924) and Frances Baldwin (nee Peerless (1867-1939).

No further information currently available

Hugh was a Sapper (#797) with the 1st/3rd Kent Field Coy Royal Engineers who died at age 21 October 28, 1915 at the Hythe disaster. He is recorded at the Helles Memorial (Panel 23 to 25 or 325 to 328). He as the son of Edward M and Hannah Jane Banks of 6 Denbigh Rd., Tunbridge Wells. He is also listed on the plaque of St James Church as Hugh Banks. There is also a Private H. Banks listed on the High Brooms memorial plaque. See also HMS Hythe 1/3rd Field Company Royal Engineers

Alfred was born in Tunbridge Wells 1889 and at the time of enlistment was living at Notting Hill. He was a Private (#1713) with the Household Cavalry of the Line (including Yeomanry and Imperial Camel Corps) 3rd Battalion, Dragoon Guards (Prince of Wales) who was killed in action June 2, 1915 in France. In 1901 he was living at 52 Lower Green Rd, Tunbridge Wells with his parents William and Rose Barber and his sister Caroline. His father was a groom and his mother at laundress. In 1911 Alfred was living in barracks at Aldershot and was with the 1st Cavalry Brigade 3rd Dragoon Guards, Wellington Lines and was single. He is also recorded on the Rusthall War Memorial.

Frederick was born and lived in Tunbridge Wells and enlisted for service at Southborough. He was with the 423rd Field Coy Royal Engineers with the rank of Corporal (#540161). He was killed in action in France April 11, 1918. He was born 1897 or 1898. He is also listed as a Corporal F. C. Barber on the High Brooms memorial plaque.

Frederick was born 1882 at Chelsea, London. In 1901 he was living at 8 Albert St., Tunbridge Wells with his mother Annie E. Barnes (widow) and three siblings. Frederick at that time was working as a milk carrier. He enlisted for service at London and was a Private (#G/18809) with the Queens Own West Kent Regiment who died in France November 18, 1916. He was formerly #4900 with the Middlesex Regiment. He is also recorded on the Rusthall War Memorial.

Frederick was a Private (#G/13764) with the 1st Battalion, Royal Sussex Regiment who died in the Asiatic Theatre of War (India) June 5, 1919. He had been born in London 1881 but later lived in Tonbridge. He was the son of James and Lucy Barnett of Tonbridge.

Likely James B. Barnett, born 1899 at Tonbridge, living 1901 in Rusthall at 16 Harmony St, Tunbridge Wells with his father James Herbert and mother Maria Barnett. In 1911 James was living on Harmony St in Rusthall with his parents and three siblings. His father was a greengrocer.

William was a Lance Serjeant (#S/26074) with the 9th Battalion, Rifle Brigade who died in France May 3, 1919. He is recorded at the Arras Memorial (Bay 9). William was born 1889 at Tonbridge and in 1901 was living with his parents James (a house painter) and Lucy and ten siblings at 13 Apoly St in Rusthall. In 1901 William was working as a drapers errand boy.

Robert was 27 when he died May 14, 1918. He was a Steward with the Mercantile Marine on the S. S. WOOLSTON. He is recorded on the Tower Hill Memorial. Robert was the son of Emily Barnfather of 4 Southwood Rd., Rusthall, Tunbridge Wells and the late Robert Barnfather. Robert was born at Fulham. He is also recorded on the Rusthall War Memorial.

Cecil was born at Midhampstead, Herts 1897 and was a resident of Walworth Surrey but enlisted for service at Tunbridge Wells. Cecil was a Private (#G/15547) with The Buffs (East Kent Regiment) who at the age of 20 died in France May 3, 1917. He is recorded at the Arras memorial (Bay 2). He was the son of the late Harry Wilcox Barsley and Elizabeth Florence Barsley. He had formerly been $969 with the 2/1st Kent Cyclist Battalion and had been wounded December 1916. In 1911 Cecil was living at 11 George St. Staines, Middlesex with his parents and three siblings.

Henry was a Serjeant (#G/1532) with the Queens Own Royal West Kent Regiment 7th Battalion, who died at age 25 in France July 13, 1916. He is recorded at the Thiepval Memorial (pier and face 11c). He was the son of Mr Henry Edward Bartholomew (1863-1932) of 4 New Wharf, Tonbridge, Kent (also of 47 Nursery Rd, High Brooms). Henry's mother was Amelia Harriet Cane (1868-1936). Henry had been born in Tunbridge Wells September 1891 and enlisted for service there. He was one of eight children in the family. A Courier article dated August 11, 1916 announced his death. He joined the army in September, a month after the outbreak of war and went to France July 25, 1915. He had been working as compositor at the Whitefriars Press in Tonbridge and locally was known for his reputation as a good athlete. He had been a goalkeeper for the Whitefriars team and held 6 medals and was also an excellent cricketer. He was an old St. John's School Boy. He is also recorded on the Southborough Memorial. In 1915 Henry married Dora J. Leigh (1890-1968) in 1915 at Tonbridge but the couple had no children. In 1911 Henry was living at 3 Florence Place, Priory Rd., Tonbridge and was working as a compositor.

Albert was born in the 3rd quarter of 1891 at Tunbridge Wells and was living in Tunbridge Wells before the war. Albert was a Lance Corporal (#G/5282) with the Queens Royal West Kent Regiment 7th Battalion, when he died in France November 19, 1915. He is recorded at the Thiepval Memorial (pier and face 11c). He was the son of Mr and Mrs Bass of 24 Bayhall Rd. Tunbridge Wells. In 1911 he was living with his parents Thomas and Mary Margaret Bass and five siblings at 2 Holly Bank Stables, Crescent Rd and was working at the time as a grocer’s porter. His father was a chauffeur.

He was Private (#44) with the 11th Battalion Middlesex Regiment who died April 5, 1918. He is recorded at the Warloy-Baillon Command Cemetery Extension, Somme. The local newspaper reported 'Mrs E. Farrant of 43 Southview Rd High Brooms has received news that her brother Pte E. Bachelor of the Machine Gun Corps was killed in action in france April 5th. He joined the Middlesex Regiment August 1914. He had been in France 3 years being transferred to the Machine Gun Corp December 1917. Previosu to joining the army he was a transport driver and worked for the Tunbridge Wells Corporation. He was an old High Brooms School boy and was home on leave in November to bury his father. From his Lieut. " He was the best of my drivers, and I feel his loss very much. His team of horses (one of which was killed with him) was always greatly admired by everyone. He stuck faithfully to his duty to the last. He was killed by a shell.

Edward was born in Tunbridge Wells in 1893. In 1911 he was residing at Shorncliffe Camp at Folkestone, age 18. He enlisted for service at Tonbridge and served as Driver (#63688) with the Royal Horse Artillery and Royal Field Artillery. He died June 15, 1915 in Mesopotamia and is recorded at the Basra Memorial (panel 3 and 60).

Most likely Henry Batchelor born at Rusthall, Tunbridge Wells, who was residing in Tunbridge Wells at the time of enlistment. Henry was a Lance Corporal (#G/3704) with the Queens Royal West Surrey Regiment who died in France November 3, 1916. He is recorded at the Guards Cemetery in France (XIII. AA. 5). He had formerly been #4340 with the Royal West Kent Regiment. He may also be Leslie Batchelor whose name is recorded on the Rusthall War Memorial. There is also a L. Batchelor with the Royal Garrison Artillery who appears on the original Roll of Honour but only his regiment is given with no next of kin, address or other particulars noted that would assist researchers in proper identification of the man.

William was born at Groombridge, Sussex but was living in Tunbridge Wells at the time of enlistment. He was a Lance Corporal (G/3704 with the Queens Royal West Surrey Regiment 6th Battalion, and died in France August 13, 1918. He was formerly #4328 with the Queens Royal West Kent Regiment. He is also recorded on the Rusthall War Memorial.

Charles was a Private (#34907) with the 1st/4th Battalion, Loyal North Lancashire Regiment who died in France November 20, 1917. He is recorded at the Villers-Faucon Communal Cemetery Extension at Somme, France (I. D. 13). His death was announced in the Tunbridge Wells Advertiser December 7, 1917 in which was said he died in action by shrapnel and was formerly a resident of 51 High Brooms Rd, and that he had joined the army in June 1916 and went to France June 1917. He had been working before the war as a chemist with Boots The Chemist's shop at the Pantilles branch in Tunbridge Well for over eight years. He was an old Grosvenor School Boy. His name is also recorded on the Southborough Memorial. He is also listed on the High Brooms memorial plaque as Private C. E. Baxter.

John was an Able Seaman (#J/20292) with the Royal Navy H. M. S. QUEEN MARY who died at age 19 May 31, 1916. He is recorded at the Portsmouth Naval Memorial (12). He was the son of John and Annie Beadle of 35 Albert St., Tunbridge Wells.

William was born at Groombridge Sussex and was living in Tunbridge Wells at the time of his enlistment. He was a Private (#S/III) with the Queens Own Royal West Kent Regiment 1st Battalion, who died in France February 22, 1915. He is recorded at the Tuileries British Cemetery, Belgium (Special memorial A. 1). He is also recorded on the Rusthall War Memorial.

Maurice was a Private (#19493) with the 2nd Battalion, Coldstream Guards who was killed in action August 27, 1918 at age 28. He is recorded at the Croisilles British Cemetery in France (III. A. 16). He was the son of William and Emily Beasley of 21 Little Mount Sion, Tunbridge Wells. Maurice was born at Fulham, London.

Charles was a Private (#201295) with the 2nd Battalion, Royal Scots Fusiliers who died in France at age 27 April 11, 1918. He is recorded at the Hoverskerque British Cemetery, France (C. 9). He was the son of Charles and Alice Eda Beecher of 37 Grosvenor Rd., Tunbridge Wells. Charles had been born in Tunbridge Wells and was a resident of the town but enlisted at Derby. He is also recorded on the plaque at Skinners School.

Frank was born in Tunbridge Wells and enlisted for service there. He was a Private (#46126) with the 2nd Battalion, York and Lancaster Regiment and died in France September 18, 1918. He is recorded at the Vis-En-Artois Memorial (panel 9). He was formerly #38949 with the West Riding Regiment.

Charles was a 3rd Writer (#M. 19797) Petty Officer with the Royal Navy H. M. S. VICTORY who died of disease September 9, 1918. He is recorded at the Tunbridge Wells Cemetery (C. 2. grave 420). He was the son of Mr and Mrs R. Bench of 24 St Peters St., Tunbridge Wells and the husband of Maud Eveline Bench of 19 Bayhall Rd., Tunbridge Wells. Charles had been born September 16, 1890 at Handcoss, Sussex.

Stanley (#23496) was a Lance Corporal with the King's Own Yorkshire Light Infantry, 2nd Battalion, when he died, at age 27, on November 18, 1916 in France. He is recorded at the Ten Tree Alley Cemetery (Puisi A. 22). Stanley was the son of Frank and Annie Bending of 6 Grosvenor Park, Tunbridge Wells. He was born at Chelmsford, Sussex.

He is given as Herbert Henry in military records and Henry Herbert in census/probate records. He was a Private (#G/7795) with The Buffs (East Kent Regiment] who died in France October 13, 1915. He is recorded at the Loos Memorial (Panel 15 to 19). He was born 1883 at St Stephens, Cornwall. He was the son of John and Hannah Benoy. Before the war Henry was working in Tunbridge Wells as a house painter/builder and his father was a Naval Pensioner. In 1911 Henry, his parents and his sister Elle Mary were living at 21 Eridge Rd, Tunbridge Wells. Probate records confirm his date of death in France and the Eridge Rd address and that Henry died in active service and that his estate of 1190 pounds was left to his father John Benoy, the executor.

Percy was a Driver (#2241) with the Corp of Royal Engineers 1st/3rd Kent Field Co. who was a soldier who died at sea during the Hythe disaster October 28, 1915 at age 19. He is recorded at the Helles Memorial (panel 23 to 25 or 325 to 328). He was the son of James Frederick and Emily Benton of 26 Birling Rd., Tunbridge Wells. Percy had been born in Tunbridge Wells and living there before the war but enlisted at Gillingham, Kent.

He is also recorded on the plaque at St Marks Church in Tunbridge Wells. See also HMS Hythe 1/3rd Field Company Royal Engineers

Maurice was a Temporary Major (formerly Captain)with the 27th Ammunition Park Army Service Corp who at age 32 died January 1,1918. He as born at Sydenham,London in 1886 and was the son of Essex Digby Berleley and Mary Ann Berkeley and the husband of L.M. Berkeley of 1 Somerville Gardens, Tunbridge Wells. He came from a long line of men of a military background. He was in the army with the 40th Foot (South Lancashire Regiment) in 1907 and had a long and distinguished military career, working his way up through the ranks. He died in England after a long illness contracted in France. His remains were interred at the Beckenham Crematorium and Cemetery at Bechenham, Kent (V4.7489). He is remembered in a book entitled ‘Wisden in the Great War’ in which he is recorded as having played cricket for the A.S.C. He is also recorded on the plaque of St Marks Church in Broadwater, Down,Tunbridge Wells. In March 2016 a collection of memorabilia pertaining to him was sold at auction. Among the items sold were his Memorial Plaque.; his 1914 Star and British War Medal; copy of documents relating to his being mentioned in despatches January 15,1914; ribbons for a trio; a photograph of him in his military uniform; a letter sent by him from the front dated September 24,1914; his scrapbook containing various photographs, verse and sketches; a large collection of hospital material and other ephemera..The following transcription relates to the St Marks Church plaque……BERKELEY, MAURICE HENRY FITZHARDINGE. Major.27th Ammunition Park, Army Service Corps.Died Tuesday 1 January 1918. Aged 32.Born Sydenham, Kent.Son of Essex Digby Berkeley and Mary Ann Berkeley.Husband of Lucy Millicent Berkeley (néeGofton-Salmond) of 1, SomervilleGardens, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent.Buried Beckenham Crematorium & Cemetery, Elmers End Road, Beckenham,Kent, BR3 4TD. Grave Ref: V4. 7489. Maurice was educated at Fauconberge School, Ballygate Street, Beccles,Suffolk. At the time of the 1911 census Maurice was serving as a Lieutenant inthe Army Service Corps, at Buller Barracks (Area 5), Stanhope Lines, Aldershot,Hampshire. He was serving as a Lieutenant in the Army Service Corps when he arrived on the Western Front for service with the British Expeditionary Force on Saturday 15 August 1914. As a Captain in the Army Service Corps, Maurice had been Mentioned in Despatches as was published on page 1669 of The London Gazette dated Wednesday 17 February 1915. The final reading of the Banns prior to the marriage of Maurice to Lucy Millicent Gofton-Salmond were read out on Sunday 11 April 1915 at the parish church of Christ Church, Norwood, London, at which time his address was recorded as St. Marks, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent. The marriage of Maurice and Lucy was recorded in the Ticehurst, Sussex, Registration District during the second quarter of 1915. Maurice died at St. Thomas’s Nursing Home, Surrey on Tuesday 1 January 1918, at which time his home address and that of his wife Lucy, who was his next of kin, was at 22, Primrose Mansions, Prince of Wales Road, Battersea Park, Surrey, prior to which Maurice and his wife had resided at 30, Frant Road, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent. Born at Camberwell, London on Friday 1 January 1886, Maurice’s widow Lucy never remarried, and she died at Bournemouth, Dorset in December 1973.

No further information currently available. He is also listed as Private A. E. Berry on the High Brooms memorial plaque.

No further information currently available

Sydney is also recorded on the Southborough War Memorial. He was a Sapper (#743) with the 1st/3rd Kent Field Coy Royal Engineers who died during the Hythe disaster on October 28, 1915. He is recorded at the Helles Memorial (panel 23 to 25 or 325 to 328). He was a soldier that died at sea. Sydney was living 1915 at 11 Meadow Rd, Southborough. He was the adopted son of Mr and Mrs H. Groombridge of 10 Albion Square, Tunbridge Wells. He was later residing at 81 Silverdale Rd., High Brooms with his wife and two children. He had received a prize for musketry in 1913. He was an employee of the Cadena Cafe on the Pantilles, Tunbridge Wells and had formerly been a student at St John's School. The Courier of July 21, 1916 announced his death and that he was one of three sons of H. Groombridge who had died in the war. The newspaper said he was a Driver but military records have him as a Sapper. Sydney. The same newspaper reported that a fourth son of H. Groombridge was lying seriously wounded at Endell St Military Hospital in London but since his name does not appear on the memorial he must have recovered from his injuries. The other sons are listed on this memorial. See also HMS Hythe 1/3rd Field Company Royal Engineers

Frederick was a Sapper (#149295) with the Railway Operating Division Royal Engineers who at age 30 died in Francre November 16, 1917. He is recorded at the Rocquigny-Equancourt Road British Cemetery Manancourt France (I. F. 21). He was the husband of Ada Maria Bird of Tunbridge Wells. Frederick had been a resident of Tunbridge Wells before the war. He is also recorded on the Rusthall War Memorial.

John was born in Tunbridge Wells January 11, 1898. He was the son of John Gordon Birney (1871-1899) and Sarah Duncroft Birney (nee Worthington). In 1911 he attended Temple Grove School Compton Place Rd, Eastbourne. John was a Lieut. (no service number given) with the 1st Battalion, Highlanders Light Infantry who was killed in action in Mesopotania January 11, 1917 on his 19th birthday. His probate records give that he was of Killarney Culverden Down, Tunbridge Wells and his executor was his mother Sarah Duncroft (given as Duncuft) Birney, widow leaving an estate value of about 1531 pounds. He is recorded at the Basra Memorial (panel 35) in Iraq. He is recorded in records as the son of Sarah D. Dirney of Sandes Soldiers Home, Meerut, United Provinces Indian and the late Lt. John R. Birney (R. E. ).

William was a Gunner (#169456) with the 66th, Trench Mortar Battery, Royal Field Artillery who died in France. William was born March 23, 1879 at Bognor, Sussex.William was raised by his grandparents Charles Bishop, a bathchair proprietor, born 1821 Sussex, and Eliza Bishop, born 1823 at Havant, Hampshire. William is found in the 1881 and 1891 census with his grandparents at 12 Chapel Street, Bognor, Sussex, where he attended school. Sometime before 1901 William moved to Tunbridge Wells and worked as a postman. The 1901 census, taken at 23 St Peters Street in Tunbridge Wells recorded him as a postman and living as a boarder with the George Carpenter family.On April 1, 1907, at Edenbridge, William married Annie Ashby who had been born 1887 at Chiddington, Kent and was the daughter of the late Robert Ashby.The 1911 census, taken at 43 Nelson Road, Tunbridge Wells gave William as a postman.Living with him was his wife Annie and his two children, Reginald William, born April 6, 1908 in Tunbridge Wells and Nora Annie, born in the town August 5, 1909. The family were living in premises of four rooms. William continued to work for the post office up to the time of his enlistment for service in WW 1. He had enlisted in the Royal Field Artillery on September 13, 1916 and served with the Expeditionary Force in France and Flanders from March 4, 1917. He was wounded and taken prisioner at Hagicourt on March 21, 1918 and was later reported to have died of wounds in a German field hospital between April 21 to 24, 1918. His commanding officer wrote: “ He will be greatly missed in the battery, as he was the most cheerful man we had there”. His effects were forward to his wife Annie December 16, 1919. William is recorded at the Honnechy British Cemetery (II.C.51). See also Tunbridge Wells Post Office

Thomas was a private (#48003) with the Northumberland Fusiliers, 20th Battalion, (Tyneside Scottish) when he was killed in France at the age 0f 28 on April 11, 1917. He is recorded at the Aubigny Communal Cemetery (II. A. 77). He was the son of James William and Mary Ann Bishopp of Tunbridge Wells and the husband of Amelia Jane Bishopp of the Barracks, Nutley, Uckfield, Sussex. He is also recorded on the plaque at St Marks Church in Tunbridge Wells.

William was a Driver (#2052) with the 1st/3rd Kent Filed Coy. Royal Engineers who was a soldier that died at sea as a result of the Hythe disaster October 28, 1915. He is recorded at the Helles Memorial (panel 23 to 25 or 325 to 328). He was the husband of Eliza Annie Bissell of 4 Holly Bank Crescent Rd. Tunbridge Wells. William had been born in Edinburgh but was a resident of Tunbridge Wells before the war but enlisted for service at Gillingham, Kent. See also HMS Hythe 1/3rd Field Company Royal Engineers

Ernest was a Private (#41293) with the 1st/7th Worcestershire Regiment who at age 27 died of wounds in October 10, 1917. He is recorded at the Dozinghem Military Cemetery (V. I. 2), Belgium. He was the son of the late William James and Esther Bissenden and the husband of Sarah Ann Bissenden of 21 Aldershot Rd, Kilburn, London. Ernest had been a native of Tonbridge, Kent. He was formerly #32190 with the Norfolk Regiment. See also Tunbridge Wells Post Office

Henry was a Private (#11499) with the Grenadier Guards No. 4 Cyclist Battalion, when at the age of 34, he was killed in France. He is recorded at the Thiepval Memorial (Pier and Face 8). He had been wounded December 1914 but returned to service. Henry was the son of Eliza Blackman of 44 Napier Rd., Tunbridge Wells, late of Meopham, Kent and the late Henry Blackman. Henry had enlisted for service in May 1904.

James was a Sapper (#2194), age 31, when he died in Turkey (including Gallipoli) with the Royal Engineers 1st/3rd Kent Field Coy. He is recorded on the Helles Memorial (Panel 23 to 25). James was the son of Henry Blackman, late of Rusthall, Tunbridge Wells. He was the husband of Minnie Blackman of Maplesden Cottages, Station Rd., Horsmonden, Kent. he is also recorded on the Rusthall War Memorial. See also HMS Hythe 1/3rd Field Company Royal Engineers

Frederick was a Private (#270982) with the 10th (Royal East Kent and West Kent Yeomanry) Battalion, The Buffs (East Kent Regiment0 who died in the Palestine (Egyptian theatre of war) December 8, 1917. He is recorded at the Jerusalem War Cemetery (B56). He had formerly been #2685 3/1st West Kent Yeomanry. He had been a resident of Tunbridge Wells but enlisted at Maidstone. He is also listed on the plaque at St James Church as Frederick Bloomfield.

James was a Serjeant (#L/8917) with the 20th Battalion, The Buffs (East Kent Regiment) who died at age 29 August 29, 1918 in France. He is recorded at the Daours Communal Cemetery Extension (VII. B. 39). He was awarded the MM. He was the son of Curtis and Margaret Bloomfield of 119 High St., Hythe, Kent.

Arthur was a Private (#TF 203668) with the 16th Battalion, Duke of Cambridge's Own (Middlesex Regiment) who died in France August 12, 1917. He is recorded at the Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial (Panel 49 and 51).

Herbert was a Rifleman (#48465) with the Rifle Brigade (The Prince Consults Own) 1/28th Regiment Battalion, who was posted to the London Regiment (Artists Rifles) and who died in France August 27, 1918. He is recorded at the A. I. F. Burial Ground Flers in France (X. E. 7). He had formerly been #G/26079 with the Queens Own Royal West Kent Regiment. He was born and lived in Tunbridge Wells before the war and enlisted for service there.

John was a Corporal with the Queens Own Royal West Kent Regiment, A Coy., 8th Battalion, (#G/5441), when, at the age of 22, he was killed in Belgium on June 27, 1917. He is recorded on the Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial (Panel 45 and 47). He was the son of Harriet Bolton, of 32 Gladstone Rd., Rusthall, Tunbridge Wells and the late John William Bolton. John was awarded the MM. He was born at Nutfield, Redhill but a resident of Rusthall, Tunbridge Wells before the war. He is also recorded on the Rusthall War memorial.

Reginald was a 2nd Lieut. with the Royal Air Force who at the age of 19 died of injuries June 1, 1918. He is recorded at the Tunbridge Wells Cemetery (B. 3. grave 300). He was the son of Robert John and Laura Alice Bourner of 74 Calverley Rd., Tunbridge Wells. He is also recorded on the plaque at Skinners School.

He was a Private (#215730 who at the age of 38 died in France while serving with the East Surrey Regiment, 4th Battalion, He is recorded at the Fouquescourt British Cemetery (III. B. 10). He was the son of William and Emma Bournes of Tunbridge Wells and the husband of Charlotte Bournes of 21 Denbigh Rd., Tunbridge Wells. There is also a Private E. Bournes listed on the High Brooms memorial plaque.

Frederick was a Private (#2300), age 35, with the Australian Infantry, A. I. F., 44th Battalion, when he was killed in France on July 4, 1918. He is recorded at the Villers-Bretonneux Memorial. He was the son of Emma Bournes of 1 Whitefiled Rd., Tunbridge Wells and the late William Bournes, J. P.

Charles had been born in Tunbridge Wells and enlisted for service there. He was a Private (#G/19021) with the 8th Battalion, Queens Own Royal West Kent Regiment who at the age of 22 died in France March 27, 1918. He is recorded at the Pozieres Memorial (Panel 58 and 59). He was the son of Mr W. T. Box of 3 Hope Terrace St., St John's Tunbridge Wells.

George was a Lance Corporal (#17960) with the 6th Battalion, Linconshire Rifles who died in the Balkans (soldier died at sea) December 10, 1915. He is recorded at the Helles Memorial (Panel 44 to 46). He is also listed on the plaque at St James Church at George Brasier.

Herbert was a Lance Serjeant (#10489) with the 14th Battalion, Machine Gun Corp (Infantry) who died at age 21 in France March 21, 1918 and was awarded the MM. He is recorded at the Pozieres Memorial (Panel 90 to 93). he was the son of George and Mary Brasier of 3 Dukes Rd., Tunbridge Wells. Herbert had been born in Hastings, Sussex but was a resident of Tunbridge Wells before the war. He had formerly been #3087 with the Middlesex Regiment. He is also listed on the plaque at St James Church as Jack Brasier.

George was a Private (#G/19155) with the 6th Battalion, Queens Own Royal West Kent Regiment who did in France at age 21 March 21, 1918. He is recorded at the Pont-De-Nieppe Communal Cemetery (II. E. 7). He was the son of Sarah Brawn and the late George Brawn and the husband of Daisy Alice Brawn of 27 Cranbrook Park Wood Green London. He had been born at Walthomstow but had been a resident of Tunbridge Wells before the war.

Herbert was a Sapper (#1009) with the 1st/3rd Kent Field Coy Royal Engineers who died age 20 October 28, 1915. He was a soldier lost at sea during the Hythe disaster. He is recorded at the Helles Memorial (panel 23 to 25 or 325 to 328). He was the son of Mrs Amelia Brewer of 84 Aukland R., Tunbridge Wells. Herbert had been born in Tunbridge Wells and was a resident there before the war but enlisted for service at Southborough, Kent. See also HMS Hythe 1/3rd Field Company Royal Engineers

Frederick was a Sapper who was killed in action at age 35 in France April 12, 1918. He is recorded at the Cabaret-Rouge British Cemetery Souchez. He was with the 497th Field Coy Royal Engineers. He was the son of William Bridger of Frant, Sussex and the husband of Sarah Elizabeth Baker (formerly Bridger) of 14 Stanley Rd., Tunbridge Wells.

John was an Ordinary Seaman (#London/Z/7827) when he died at age 18 with the Royal Navy Volunteer Reserve H. M. S. OTRANTO. He is recorded on the Chatham Naval Memorial (31). He was the son of John Payne Brooker and Alice Brooker of 42 Dukes Rd., Tunbridge Wells. He is also listed on the plaque at St James Church as John R. Brooker.

Thomas was a Gunner (#358589) with the 352nd Siege Bty Royal; Garrison Artillery who died. age 39, August 5, 1917. He is recorded at the Canada Farm Cemetery in Belgium (II. E. 28). Thomas was born at Speldhurst February 3, 1878 and enlisted for service at Tunbridge Wells. Thomas was the grandson of Mr Richard and Charity Brooker of Speldhurst. Thomas attended Speldhurst School and later worked as a farm labourer. He had enlisted for service June 1916 and served at Ypres Salient. He was killed in action at Waesten near Armentieres. In the 1881 census he was living with his family at Waterfrets Farm, Speldhurst. Thomas is also recorded at the Speldhurst Memorial at St Marys' Church.

No further information currently available

Ernest was born at Crowborough, Sussex but was a resident of Tubnridge Wells before the war. He enlisted for service at Maidstone. Ernest was a Private (#L/9230) with the Queens Own Royal West Kent Regiment, 2nd Battalion, who died July 24, 1915 in the Asiatic Theatre of War Mesopotamian Expeditionary Force. He was the son of Annie Edwards (formerly Brown) of 40 North St St Peters, Tunbridge Wells. He is buried at the Basra War Cemetery, Iraq (plot II. R8).

[Accidentally listed in some places as Frederick] Frank was a Private (#12432) with the 9th Battalion, Royal Sussex Regiment who at age 32 died of injuries June 23, 1918. He is recorded at the Southborough Cemetery (4. 135). He was the husband of Florence Victoria Brown of 46 Nursery Rd., High Brooms, Tunbridge Wells. Frank had been born in Tunbridge Wells and was a resident there before the war. He is also recorded on the Southborough Memorial. He is also listed on the High Brooms memorial plaque as Private F. Brown.

He is recorded on the plaque at Skinners School. Robert was a Lance Corporal (#L/11051) with the 13th Battalion, Royal Sussex Regiment who died at age 20 July 31, 1917. He is recorded at the Buffs Rd Cemetery (D23). He was the son of Jesse and Emma Brown of 9 Avon St., Tunbridge Wells.

William was a Driver (#2024) with the 1st/3rd Kent Field Coy Royal Engineers who at age 19 was a soldier lost at sea during the Hythe disaster october 28, 1915. He is recorded at the Helles Memorial (panel 23 to 35 or 325 to 328). He was the son of Mrs W. Brown of 87 Silverdale Rd., Tunbridge Wells. He is also recorded on the Rusthall War Memorial. See also HMS Hythe 1/3rd Field Company Royal Engineers

William was a Lieut with the 387th Siege Bty 103rd Bde Royal Garrison Artillery who at age 29 died of injuries November 7, 1918. He is recored at the Rusthall (St Paul) Churchyard (2. 71). He was the son of William and Alice Brown of 38 Erskine Park Rd., Tunbridge Wells and the husband of Emma Elizabeth Brown (nee Bonnage) of 19 Union Rd., Dover and formerly also 32 Templar St., Dover.

He had been called up when the war began. He was a reservist, having left the Royal West Kents in 1911. Given his commissions in 1917, he joined the 387th Siege Bty. William had contracted dysentery in the trenches and was sent home to recover. Sadly he developed pneumonia and died a month later at Sandy Lane VAD. The Brown's had three other sons serving in the war, all of whom survived. William and Emma were married in Dover in 1908. After her husband death Emma brought up their three sons, Peter, Stanley and Leslie on her own. Emma died in 1949 at age 59, Williams son Leslie went on to be a keen swimmer and member of the Dover lifeguards club, gaining many trophies for individual and team events and in 1955 was awarded the George medal of saving a man’s life who had been trapped by an explosion in an ammunition store. William is recorded at the Dover War Memorial.

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Wilfred was an Engine Room Artificer 4th class (#M/18517) with the Royal Navy on the H. M. S. VIVID and was killed at the age of 21 on February 13, 1916. He is recorded at the Ford Park Cemetery (formerly church S. 3. 13). The cemetery name is Plymouth Devonport & Stonehouse Cemetery. He was the son of Ethel S. Cockburn (formerly Burfield) of 164 Upper Grosvenor Rd., Tunbridge Wells and the late F. G. Burfield. He was born August 20, 1894 at Lewisham, Middlesex. Wilfred died of disease. His notice of death was sent to his mother Ethel at 203 Upper Grosvenor Rd., Tunbridge Wells.

Initial of middle name incorrectly given on the plaque. William Henry Burfoot was a Private (#G/4178) with the 8th Battalion, Queens Own Royal West Kent Regiment who died in France September 26, 1915. He is recorded on the Loos Memorial (panel 95 to 97). William was born at St. Stephens, Tunbridge Wells and enlisted for service in Tunbridge Wells.

Extract from Kent & Sussex Courier - Friday 19 November 1915, page 3:

TUNBRIDGE WELLS MEN KILLED

Pte. William Henry Burfoot, of the 8th West Kent, youngest son of Mr. A. E. Burfoot. of Auckland-road, died from wounds in France on September 26th. He was aged 20, and formerly worked at the Wellington Hotel. He has two brothers there and a brother-in-law serving in the Army.

William was a Private (#17663) with the 7th Battalion, East Surrey Regiment who died in France August 13, 1916. He is recorded at the Thiepval Memorial (pier and face 6B and 6C). See also Tunbridge Wells Post Office

He was a Captain with the Royal Army Service Corps who served in France and died of injuries March 9, 1919. He is recorded at the Tunbridge Wells Cemetery (A. 11. grave 209). He is also recorded on the plaque at St Marks Church, Tunbridge Wells.

John was a Boatswain with the Royal Navy, H. M. S. GOOD HOPE, who at age 29 died November 1, 1914. He is recorded at the Chatham Naval Memorial (1). He was the son of Mary Ann Bushell of 43 Auckland Rd., Tunbridge Wells and the late Robert John Bushell. He was the husband of the late rose Bushell (nee Beal). John was born in London.

He was a Gunner(#147656) with the 166th Siege Battery,Royal Garrison Artillery who died age 35 September 26,1917 in Belgium. He is recorded at The Huts Cemetery (VII.C.13). John was born at Leighton Buzzard, Bedfordshire and was one of several children born to George Butcher (1849-1928), an ironmonger, and Mary Ann Maria Butcher, nee Turney (1852-1928). John began his career as a furniture dealers apprentice in 1901 at Leighton Buzzard. In the 4th qtr of 1905 at Dover, Kent he married Sarah Annabella Riddell (1882-1941) and with her had one son and two daughters between 1908 and 1912. He had enlisted at Tonbridge in 1914 and saw action in France and Belgium. While he was serving in WW 1 his wife continued his furnishers business in Tunbridge Wells at 60 and 62 The Pantilles. His effects were sent to his widow in 1918 and his medals in 1920. His wife never remarried and died in Tunbridge Wells while a resident of 1 Park Road. See also Leighton Buzzard