If you want to know who all the soldiers are, then the names are on my Modella soldiers post, read it here.
Sunday, December 16, 2018
Modella Honour Roll
On Saturday, December 15 2018 a new honour board was unveiled at the Modella public hall, by Mr Colin Teese, the President of the Bunyip R.S.L. The wreath was laid by Mrs Dorothy Goodman, the niece of John Archibald (Archie) Lugton and Mr Wayne Rogers - the grandson of William Corbin. The original board had been destroyed when the hall burnt down in the late 1970s. The community, led by Mrs Mavis Martin, should be commended for their work in replacing the board and giving 'their boys', their place in the history of the town. Mavis also generously donated the Honour board. The event was attended by over 50 locals of all ages, a great turn out.
Monday, November 12, 2018
A Century After the Guns Fell Silent: Remembering the Pakenham District's WWI Diggers 1914-1918
On Sunday, November 11, 2018 Patrick Ferry launched his book on the men and women from the Pakenham area who served in the Great War. The book is called A Century After the Guns Fell Silent: Remembering the Pakenham District's WWI Diggers 1914-1918. A limited edition of 250 copies of the book was produced courtesy of a Centenary of the Armistice Grant from the Department of Veterans' Affairs. However, you can also access the information and download a free copy of the book on this new website https://www.pakenhamww1.com/
The book covers all the people listed on the Pakenham & District War Memorial, Pakenham Upper Roll of Honour, Pakenham Upper State School Honour book, St Patricks School Roll of Honour, Pakenham State School Roll of Honour and the Pakenham South War Memorial.
Patrick spent many hours talking to family members of the soldiers - sometimes it was easy to track down relatives as their family still lived in the area, at other times a fair bit of detective work went into finding family members, some of whom had no idea that their Digger was listed on a memorial in the Pakenham area. This has all resulted in a book with family photos and personal insights in the soldiers and their life after they returned home. The book was also produced with the assistance of members of the Berwick Pakenham Historical Society.The book and website is a great contribution to the history of our area and a tribute to the sacrifice that so many local families made to support Australia during the Great War.
The book covers all the people listed on the Pakenham & District War Memorial, Pakenham Upper Roll of Honour, Pakenham Upper State School Honour book, St Patricks School Roll of Honour, Pakenham State School Roll of Honour and the Pakenham South War Memorial.
Patrick spent many hours talking to family members of the soldiers - sometimes it was easy to track down relatives as their family still lived in the area, at other times a fair bit of detective work went into finding family members, some of whom had no idea that their Digger was listed on a memorial in the Pakenham area. This has all resulted in a book with family photos and personal insights in the soldiers and their life after they returned home. The book was also produced with the assistance of members of the Berwick Pakenham Historical Society.The book and website is a great contribution to the history of our area and a tribute to the sacrifice that so many local families made to support Australia during the Great War.
Screen shot of the website showing two of the Ellett brothers of Pakenham South
Monday, October 8, 2018
Soldiers Welcome - Pakenham Upper
A welcome home to local men was held at Pakenham Upper on June 29 1918. It was reported in the Pakenham Gazette of July 5, 1918.
A welcome home to local men was held in the hall on Saturday last, the 29th ult., when the following soldiers were entertained and each made the recipient of a handsomely framed certificate (except in the case of Pte. E. Cook, who received a framed enlarged photograph of himself, suitably inscribed), Ptes. E. Cook, B. Mullett and E. Johnstone. The following returned soldiers, who are newcomers
to the district, were also present, and were tendered a welcome: Lieut. Morris and Staff-Sgt. Lovell. The relatives of the following soldiers who have fallen also received certificates, except in the case of Pte. I. Slessar, in which instance a framed enlarged photograph was given; Captain Raleigh, Ptes. R, Copeland, H. Warner, - Cornwall, F. B. Doyle and R. Slessar. Pte. Ede and A. Doyle, who have returned, but were not present, are also to receive certificates.
Cook, Edward (SN 2423) Edward enlisted at the age of 29. He was an orchardist and his next of kin was his mother, Mrs M. Cook of Army Road, Pakenham East. Edward Returned to Australia January 10, 1918 and was discharged on medical grounds suffering from pleurisy and broncho pneumonia.
Copeland, Richard Baxter (SN 1097) Richard was 37 when he enlisted on January 4, 1915. His next of kin was his father, Ware Copeland of The Grange, Gembrook Road, Pakenham. Richard was Killed in Action on July 28, 1916.
Cornwall, Robert Charles (SN 1725) Robert was 19 he enlisted on December 18, 1914. His next of kin was his mother, Mary Grace Cornwall of Pakenham. Robert was Wounded in Action - gun show wound to buttock and arm - and died on August 4, 1916.
Doyle, Arthur James (SN 1374) Arthur was 28 when he enlisted on August 2, 1915. His next of kin was his mother Georgina. He was sent overseas but Returned to Australia January 1916 and was discharged on medical grounds on March 11, 1917 - Tubercular Pleurisy.
Doyle, Frank Bertram (SN 4165) Frank was 19 when he enlisted on July 22, 1915. His next of kin was his father, John, of Nar Nar Goon. Frank died on December 16, 1916 in the University War Hospital, Southampton after being wounded whilst fighting in France. Frank and Arthur were brothers. I believe their parents were separated as the notation on Frank's record says 'father away from home for ten years' Frank's mother Georgina Doyle (nee Kirk) gave her consent to Frank's enlistment. Her address was 'Hill View', Pakenham Upper.
Raleigh, George Hebden. Captain Raleigh has an entry on the Imperial War Museum website - Unit: Essex Regiment, Squadron Commander of the 4th Squadron, Royal Flying Corps. Death: 20 January 1915 Dunkirk fell out of plane on ground Western Front. You can see a photo of him and read more about his career here. George's parent - William Thorp and Matilda (nee Hebden) Raleigh, had a property 'Goronga' at Pakenham Upper. William and Matilda married in 1873 and they had a number of children including George, who was born in 1878.
Slessar, Robert (SN 3821) Robert enlisted on July 9, 1915. He was a 29 year old Engineer. His next of kin was firstly his father, Robert Slessar, of Pakenham East and after his father died in July 1916, his mother Mary Grierson Slessar of 'Oak Bank' North Nar Nar Goon. Robert was Killed in Action in France on August 27, 1916. He must have died almost the same day as his father - see report of father's death, below.
Warner, Charles Henry (SN 7081) Harry, as he was known, was 30 when he enlisted on October 19, 1916. He was a farmer and his next of kin was his father, Andrew, of Pakenham Upper. In September 1917 he was shot in the chest by a machine gun bullet and embarked for Australia, after treatment, on January 11 1918. He died on March 9, 1918.
A welcome home to local men was held in the hall on Saturday last, the 29th ult., when the following soldiers were entertained and each made the recipient of a handsomely framed certificate (except in the case of Pte. E. Cook, who received a framed enlarged photograph of himself, suitably inscribed), Ptes. E. Cook, B. Mullett and E. Johnstone. The following returned soldiers, who are newcomers
to the district, were also present, and were tendered a welcome: Lieut. Morris and Staff-Sgt. Lovell. The relatives of the following soldiers who have fallen also received certificates, except in the case of Pte. I. Slessar, in which instance a framed enlarged photograph was given; Captain Raleigh, Ptes. R, Copeland, H. Warner, - Cornwall, F. B. Doyle and R. Slessar. Pte. Ede and A. Doyle, who have returned, but were not present, are also to receive certificates.
Pakenham Gazette July 5 1918
These are the men listed with their Service Numbers (SN) so you can look up their full record on the National Archives of Australia website www.naa.gov.au
Cook, Edward (SN 2423) Edward enlisted at the age of 29. He was an orchardist and his next of kin was his mother, Mrs M. Cook of Army Road, Pakenham East. Edward Returned to Australia January 10, 1918 and was discharged on medical grounds suffering from pleurisy and broncho pneumonia.
Report on the death of Bob and Rich. Dandenong Advertiser November 2 1916
Cornwall, Robert Charles (SN 1725) Robert was 19 he enlisted on December 18, 1914. His next of kin was his mother, Mary Grace Cornwall of Pakenham. Robert was Wounded in Action - gun show wound to buttock and arm - and died on August 4, 1916.
Poignant letter from Mrs Cornwall about her 'laddie'
National Archives of Australia www.naa.gov.au
First Australian Imperial Force Personnel Dossiers, 1914-1920
Doyle, Arthur James (SN 1374) Arthur was 28 when he enlisted on August 2, 1915. His next of kin was his mother Georgina. He was sent overseas but Returned to Australia January 1916 and was discharged on medical grounds on March 11, 1917 - Tubercular Pleurisy.
Doyle, Frank Bertram (SN 4165) Frank was 19 when he enlisted on July 22, 1915. His next of kin was his father, John, of Nar Nar Goon. Frank died on December 16, 1916 in the University War Hospital, Southampton after being wounded whilst fighting in France. Frank and Arthur were brothers. I believe their parents were separated as the notation on Frank's record says 'father away from home for ten years' Frank's mother Georgina Doyle (nee Kirk) gave her consent to Frank's enlistment. Her address was 'Hill View', Pakenham Upper.
The letter from Georgina Doyle, giving her 19 year old son Frank permission to enlist.
National Archives of Australia www.naa.gov.au
First Australian Imperial Force Personnel Dossiers, 1914-1920
Ede, Harry (SN1634) Harry was 40 when he enlisted on November 20 1914. He was an Accountant and a widower and his next of kin was his friend, Mrs P. Fairbairn of Upper Pakenham. Harry Returned to Australia March 3, 1916 and was discharged on medical grounds in the September. He had Neurasthemia (a 'nerve complaint'). Harry has spent 6 months at Gallipoli and according to his file had lost four stone in weight whilst on Gallipoli and was very tremulous and completely run down. Harry had also served in the Boer War in the Second Battalion, Australian Commonwealth Horse.
Johnstone, E Not sure who this is - I cannot find a E. Johnson or Johnstone with a local connection.
Lovell, Francis (SN 7) Francis was 24 when he enlisted on December 13, 1914. He was a fuel merchant. His next of kin was his friend, a widow, Mrs Grace Goland of Collingwood. They were married in 1915. Staff Sergeant Lovell Returned to Australia January 19, 1916 as he was suffering from severe epilepsy. We know he lived in Pakenham Upper after his return as that was his address when his War pension was determined. Grace's son from her first marriage, William Martin Goland, had been born in 1903.
Francis Lovell's War Pension claims for himself, his wife Grace and his stepson, William.
National Archives of Australia www.naa.gov.au
First Australian Imperial Force Personnel Dossiers, 1914-1920
Morris, John Crisop. Lieutenant John Crisop Morris is listed in the Electoral Rolls at Pakenham Upper in 1919, his occupation is orchardist. He enlisted on September 24, 1914 at the age of 38. He had the unusual occupation of actor and he was born in Townsville, enlisted in Melbourne and his mother, who his next of kin, was also from Townsville. He Returned to Australia December 16, 1917 suffering from 'cardiac arythmia'. John had also served in the Boer War - he enlisted on May 1, 1902 in the '7th Battalion Australian Commonwealth Horse for service in South Africa'
Mullett, Bertram James (SN 599) There is a Bertram James Mullett, farmer, of Gembrook South in the Electoral Rolls from 1909 and I am assuming that he is the same Bertram James Mullet who enlisted on October 26, 1914 at the age of 31. His occupation was farmer and his next of kin was his father, James, of Marshall in Victoria. He served in Egypt, as we can see from the report in the Dandenong Journal, below. Bert had diptheria and Returned to Australia July 10, 1916 and was discharged on medical grounds in October 1916.
Under Pakenham Upper District News - Dandenong Advertiser March 25, 1915
Slessar, Robert (SN 3821) Robert enlisted on July 9, 1915. He was a 29 year old Engineer. His next of kin was firstly his father, Robert Slessar, of Pakenham East and after his father died in July 1916, his mother Mary Grierson Slessar of 'Oak Bank' North Nar Nar Goon. Robert was Killed in Action in France on August 27, 1916. He must have died almost the same day as his father - see report of father's death, below.
The death of Robert's Dad in the Dandenong Advertiser August 3, 1916
Warner, Charles Henry (SN 7081) Harry, as he was known, was 30 when he enlisted on October 19, 1916. He was a farmer and his next of kin was his father, Andrew, of Pakenham Upper. In September 1917 he was shot in the chest by a machine gun bullet and embarked for Australia, after treatment, on January 11 1918. He died on March 9, 1918.
Dandenong Advertiser March 14, 1918
Wednesday, July 18, 2018
Soldiers with a connection to Officer
The Officer Public Hall has an Honor Board from the First World War. It was unveiled on Saturday, November 16 1918, in front of a large gathering of residents, according to a report in the Pakenham Gazette. The report goes on to say Like most districts in Victoria, Officer has done its share in providing men who were willing to go overseas to fight for the British flag, and to maintain that liberty and freedom so dear to every Britisher.....The Honor Roll, which was given by Mrs Brunt, sen., is of tasteful design and is constructed of Australian blackwood, on which the names have been painted in gold lettering. You can read the full report in the Pakenham Gazette of November 22, 1918, here. A supplementary report was published in the next edition of the Pakenham Gazette, listing the three other men who made the Supreme Sacrifice. You can read this, here.There is another memorial to soldiers in Officer and that is the War Memorial Gates at the Recreation Reserve. They were unveiled on November 11, 1951 (Armistice Day) in front a crowd between 300 to 400 people. This event was reported in the Pakenham Gazette of November 16, 1951. The plaques record the names of ten local men who died in the First World War and five who died in the Second World War.
What follows is a list of the First World War soldiers on the Honor Roll and Memorial gates, plus a few others with an Officer connection, their fate (i.e. when they Returned to Australia after active service or when they were Killed in Action) and their Service Number (SN) so you can look up their full service record on the National Archives website (www.naa.gov.au).
The book Officer Primary School, No. 2742 Centenary 1886 - 1986 written by Eileen Williams was very useful in helping to identify the soldiers and is referred to as the Officer Primary School book.
Officer Honor Board at the Public Hall
Beadel, Percival Thomas (SN 820) Percival enlisted on March 29, 1915 at the age of 19. He was a labourer and his next of kin was his mother, Mary, of Officer. Percival Died of Wounds on January 17, 1917 - he had suffered multiple gun shot wounds to the abdomen and thigh. Percy is also listed on the Officer Recreation Reserve gates.
Bell, Thomas Stanley (SN 3773) Thomas was a 23 year old labourer when he enlisted on August 12, 1915. His next of kin was his mother, Mary Ann Bell, whose address was St Germains, Clyde. A notation on his file said that his father was 'not recognized'. Thomas Returned to Australia October 18, 1917 and was discharged on medical grounds in January 1918 - Gun shot wound to the thorax. Thomas was also honoured at Cardinia in 1917 when a memorial grove of trees was planted at the Cardinia State School. You can read about this, here.
Boase, Arthur Leslie (SN 7213) Arthur enlisted on August 2, 1915 at the age of 26 and his next of kin was his mother, Mrs H. Jolly of Garfield. He was discharged on September 16, 1915 due to suffering from pulmonary tuberculosis . He re-enlisted in July 1916 for ‘home’ not active service, but was discharged again on November 7, 1916. Obviously he was very persistent as he enlisted for the third time on November 10, 1916. He was sent to England but Returned to Australia on September 27, 1917 and was discharged as medically unfit on February 1, 1918 as he suffered from bronchitis. At the time of the second enlistment he was living in Officer and by the time of the third enlistment he was married to Linda and still living in Officer. Arthur is also listed on the Garfield State School Honor Roll, see here.
Brown, P Cannot specifically find a P. Brown from Officer - there is a Percy Brown (SN 2111) from Beaconsfield Upper and a Percy Brown (SN 7211) from Pakenham, so possibly one of those. I cannot find a Brown in the Electoral Roll at Officer nor is there a Brown listed in the list of pupils from Officer Primary School book, so Mr P. Brown is a bit of a mystery at the moment
Bromley, John (SN 1171)
Bromley, Harold (SN 22094)
Bromley, Norman John (SN 20024)
John was 44 when he enlisted on May 4, 1917. He was a farrier and his enlistment papers said he had already served 394 days in the AIF, but had not served abroad. He was sent overseas but Returned to Australia March 16, 1918 suffering from bronchitis and pleuresy. John and his wife, Susan, were living at Officer when their two sons, Harold and Norman, enlisted. The boys both enlisted on June 28, 1915 - Harold was a 22 year old engine driver and Norman was a 19 year old farrier. Harold Returned to Australia June 21, 1919 and Norman in January 1920. Norman married Florence Louise Batchelor in England on August 27, 1919.
Brunt, Archibald Andrew (SN 101) Archibald enlisted January 11, 1915. He was a 21 year old farmer. Archie Returned to Australia December 18, 1918.
Brunt, Trevor William (SN 358) Trevor enlisted at the age of 24 on August 20, 1914. Lieutenant Brunt Returned to Australia March 5, 1919.
Archie and Trevor were the sons of William and Sarah (nee Buckland) Brunt. William was the son of Ralph and Mary Jane (nee Funston) Brunt of Gin Gin Bean, Officer.
Clements, John William Henry (SN 5995) John was a 26 year old teacher at Officer State School when he enlisted on June 10, 1916. He Returned to Australia September 25, 1919.
Letter from the Education Department to John Clements giving him permission to enlist.
National Archives of Australia www.naa.gov.au
First Australian Imperial Force Personnel Dossiers, 1914-1920
Davies, Alan Cathcart Lieutenant Davies was 25 when he enlisted on July 8, 1915. Alan Died of Wounds on April 25, 1918. Alan is also listed on the Officer Recreation Reserve gates.
Davies, Basil Rayner (SN 804). Basil enlisted on February 25, 1916 at the age of 24. He Returned to Australia April 5, 1919. He was awarded the Military Medal. Alan and Basil were farmers from Officer. The name of their property was Jesmond Dene. Their next of kin was their mother, Jessie, of Toorak.
Report of Alan Davies' death
South Bourke & Mornington Journal May 9, 1918
Drummond, A I don't know who this is. I cannot find him in the Electoral Roll at Officer nor is he on the list of pupils from Officer Primary School. I thought he might be connected to the family, below, but I cannot trace an A. Drummond with the parents listed below.
Drummond, Daniel George (SN 3082) Daniel enlisted on July 12, 1915 at the age of 27, he was a farmer and his next of kin was his mother, Margaret, of Officer. He married Annie Hopkirk in Scotland before he Returned to Australia April 13, 1919. Daniel was granted a Soldier Settlement farm, you can read about it here. For some reason Daniel, is not on the Officer Honor Roll.
Drummond, Walter Neil (SN 2571) Walter enlisted at the age of 18 on June 28, 1915. He was a Blacksmith. His next of kin was listed as his father, William, of Officer. Walter Returned to Australia April 13, 1919
Drummond, William John (SN 2902) William enlisted on January 31, 1916 at the age of 29. He was a baker and his next of kin was his father, William Peter Drummond of Harkaway. He Returned to Australia on September 5, 1919. William was also granted a Soldier Settlement farm, you can read his file here. I presume he is the J. Drummond listed on the Honor Board.
Daniel, Walter and William are the sons of William and Margaret (nee Duncan). Daniel was born in Mitta Mitta and William and Walter were born in the neighbouring town of Eskdale. I presume that William and Margaret moved from Officer to Harkaway in 1916. The boys also have a tree in the Harkaway Avenue of Honour, you can read about this here.
Gregson, Arthur Henry (SN 1552) Arthur was born at Officer and he enlisted on October 6, 1914. He was a 30 year old bushman and his next of kin was his father of Fitzroy. Arthur Returned to Australia October 17, 1916 and was discharged on medical grounds - DAH - Disordered action of the heart, a stress syndrome. [If you are looking for Arthur's Service Record on the National Archives of Australia website then they have his Service Number incorrectly listed as 1597]
Handley, C I cannot find a C. Handley with an local connection (or a Hanley in case the name was spelt incorrectly), nor can I find a Handley who went to school at Officer or a Handley at Officer in the Electoral Roll - so another mystery.
Harris, Claud Alfred (SN 12451) Claud enlisted on February 2, 1916 at the age of 25. He was a mechanic. His next of kin was his mother, Rosetta Harris, of Edgevale, Beaconsfield Upper. Claud Returned to Australia February 5, 1920. His parents, Solomon and Rosetta Harris are in the Electoral Roll at Officer in 1909. Claud and his sisters Isa, Lucy, Marian, Ethel and May are listed as starting as pupils at the Officer State School between 1890 and 1900.
Heggart, Edward John (SN 3858) Edward enlisted on July 10, 1915 at the age of 22. His next of kin was H.Heggart - his father according to the Embarkation Rolls and his brother according to his enlistment paper. It was actually his brother Harry who was living at Officer at the time with his wife, Edith, according to the Electoral Rolls.Their parents were Thomas and Ellen Heggart. Edward was Wounded in Action (gun shot wound right leg and left forearm) in November 1916 and Returned to Australia December 4, 1918.
Hullet, Charles Franklin (SN 5690) Charles was born in Officer and was 26 year old electrician (an unusual occupation for the time, he worked at the City Council electric light supply) when he enlisted on March 23, 1916. His wife, Ivy, was his next of kin and her address was Chelsea. Charles was Killed in Action in France on August 9, 1918. According to the death notice, Charles and Ivy had two children 'little Charlie and Ivy'.
Hunter, A Another mystery person - I cannot find a A. Hunter (or any Hunter for that matter) with an obvious local connection.
Johnson, Raymond James (SN 2013) Raymond was born at Officer but was living in Lilydale when he enlisted on March 16, 1917 at the age of 24. He was an Assistant Station Master. His next of kin was his father, James. Raymond Returned to Australia July 1, 1919.
Johnston, William (SN 4740) Incorrectly listed as Johnstone on the Honor Board and the Memorial gates. William was 44 when he enlisted on February 1 1916 and his next of kin was his wife, May, of Officer. William was Killed in Action in France on November 12, 1916. William is also listed on the Officer Recreation Reserve gates.
Kenworthy, Lindsay (SN 1816) Lindsay was 19 when he enlisted on March 21, 1916. His next of kin was his father, Ben, of Officer. His Dad later had Mansfield House, Berwick as his address. Lindsay was Wounded in Action in September 1917 - a gun shot wound to his right leg which was amputated. He Returned to Australia December 13, 1918.
Lecky, James Alexander (SN 19922) James enlisted on February 25, 1916 at the age of 25. He died of 'wounds received in action' in France on November 14, 1918. The wound was a gun shot wound to the chest, which he sustained on October 25 1918.
Lecky, William Mervyn (SN 6612) William enlisted on June 15, 1915 aged 20. He was killed in Action in France on September 1, 1918.
James and William were the sons of James Lecky of Cardinia Park in Officer. James (1841 to 1939) was a Cranbourne Shire Councillor from 1876 until 1905. Their grandfather, also James (1802 to 1884) had taken up the Gin Gin Bean Run (later named Cardinia Park) at Officer in 1846 and he was a member of the Cranbourne Road Board and the Cranbourne Shire from 1860 until 1881. Lecky Road in Officer/Pakenham is named for the family. The boys are also listed on the Cranbourne Presbyterian Church Honor Roll, see here and the Officer Recreation Reserve gates.
Lever, Harry (SN 2833) Harry was 21 and a farmer from Officer, when he enlisted on October 31, 1916. His next of kin was his sister, Nellie, of South Yarra. Harry Returned to Australia August 27, 1919.
Maxwell, Henry Charles Kempson (SN 1923) Henry enlisted on February 16, 1917 at the age of 26. He was a grazier. He Returned to Australia May 6, 1919. When Henry enlisted his next of kin was his wife Eileen Josephine Maxwell, c/o G. Tavener, Kerang and Henry's address was Moondah Park, Longreach in Queensland. However on another page of his enlistment papers his address is 'Luckham', Officer - or I think it says Luckham. Henry is listed in the Electoral Roll at Cardinia in 1914 with a Harriet Lucy Maxwell. Harriet was his mother, he married Eileen (nee Tavener) in 1917.
From Henry Maxwell's service record, showing his address at Officer.
National Archives of Australia www.naa.gov.au
First Australian Imperial Force Personnel Dossiers, 1914-1920
McMahon, John Peter Daniel Muldrick (SN 4151) John and his siblings, Eileen, Leslie and Albert are listed in the Officer Primary School book. As the book and the Death notice for his brother, Alfred, who died in December 1916 (see below) calls him Jack, that's what we will call him. Jack enlisted on October 15, 1914 according to the Nominal Roll, October 15, 1915 according to the Embarkation roll or January 19, 1916 according to his date on his 'oath of enlistment' in his service record - so take your pick. He was a 20 year old carpenter when he enlisted and was actually born in 1895 so the 1915 may be the correct one. Jack Returned to Australia September 25, 1919. His parents were John and Mary Ann (nee Muldrick). Mary Ann died in 1912, her death is registered at Berwick.
Death notice of John McMahon's brother, showing the family connection to Officer.
The Argus January 3, 1917
Moss, Albert (SN 6150) Albert was 18, a labourer, when he enlisted on August 27, 1915. His address was Officer, he was living with his aunt, Mary Maybury, but his next of kin was his father who lived in London. Albert married Kathleen Abram on May 5, 1919 before he Returned to Australia July 26, 1919.
Nichols, A Not sure who this is - I cannot find an A. Nichols (or Nichol, Nicholls, Nicholl, Nicols, Nicol etc ) with a connection to Officer or neighbouring towns. Nor is there a Nichols listed in the Officer Primary School book or a likely candidate in the Electoral Rolls, so Mr Nichols remains a mystery at the moment.
O'Brien, Henry James (SN 3369) There is a Henry James O'Brien in the 1914 Electoral Roll at Officer, occupation Railway employee, so based on this information I decided that serviceman No. 3369 was 'our man' and this was confirmed by a letter in his file from his wife in February 1919 to Base Records, asking where her husband was. Mrs H.J. O'Brien's address was Officer, Gippsland. Henry enlisted on July 13, 1915, he was an Assistant Station Master, born in Kensington and his next of kin was his father, John, of Flemington. Henry Returned to Australia January 25, 1919, so he was on the boat when Mrs James wrote her letter.
Letter from Mrs O'Brien asking where here husband was.
First Australian Imperial Force Personnel Dossiers, 1914-1920
Osborne, James Patrick (SN 2733) James was 36 when he enlisted on August 2, 1915. He was Killed in Action in France on August 19, 1916. James' next of kin was his mother, Bridget, of 'Lower Beaconsfield' - I hadn't heard of Lower Beaconsfield before, I presume it was to distinguish the town on the railway line from Upper Beaconsfield and not a location south of Beaconfield, but as it is next to Officer, I believe I have the right person. James is also listed on the Officer Recreation Reserve gates.
Peterson, Frederick Victor (SN 4056) Fred was an 18 year old driver when he enlisted on March 23, 1915. Fred Returned to Australia November 20, 1918.
Peterson, Oscar Frederick (SN 12407) Oscar was 43 when he enlisted on May 2, 1916. He had been born in Sweden, was a storekeeper and the father of Frederick. Oscar Returned to Australia March 25, 1919. Fred and Oscar's next of kin was their mother/wife Elizabeth, of the General Store, Officer. Oscar and Elizabeth are in the 1914 Electoral Roll at Officer and they obviously operated the General Store together. Their employee, Leonard Whittney, also enlisted in the War, see below.
Pryor, William Alfred Ernest (SN 26734) William was obviously known as Ernest, so that's what we will call him. The 1914 Electoral Roll had an Ernest and Mary Jane Pryor listed at Officer in 1914, so I knew what the Officer connection was, it just took some time to find his service record under William. Ern enlisted on January 3, 1916 at the age of 29. He had listed his next of kin as his daughter, Violet, but his brother Thomas of Warwick in Queensland was also listed because Violet was a child. Mary Jane had died August 14, 1915 and Violet was their only child. Violet was born in 1907, had enrolled at Officer State School in 1913 and her guardian was Mrs Ellen Wilding of Canterbury. Sadly, Ern was Killed in Action in France on April 8, 1917. Ern is also listed on the Officer Recreation Reserve gates, although his name is incorrectly listed as Prior.
Report of Ern Pryor's death
Pakenham Gazette May 18, 1917
Rix, Henry James (SN 10918) Henry enlisted on July 19, 1915 at the age of 29. His next of kin was his father, Henry John Rix, of 'Fairview' Officer. Henry and his father were farmers. Henry Returned to Australia May 25, 1919, but before he returned he married Mabel Hill in Liverpool, on May 8, 1919. They were both 35 years old at the time (which doesn't tally with his age at enlistment, but never mind) and he was listed as being a widower. Rix Road in Officer is named for the family.
Sackett, Edmond Herbert (SN 1138) Edmond was a 19 year old farmer when he enlisted on June 20, 1915. His next of kin was his mother who lived in Kent in England. He worked on a farm at Officer, Luckham, the same property as Harry Maxwell, listed above. Edmond was Killed in Action in France on October 8, 1918.
Edmond's Roll of Honor, which proves his connection to Officer. In Question 3 someone has written Luckham, then crossed it out. Luckham, Officer was the same address as Harry Maxwell, see above.
Skellett, Albert John Kempson (SN 997) As he is listed as K. Skellett, I presume he was called Kempson, so this is what we will call him. Kempson enlisted on February 24, 1915 at the age of 26. He was a farm manager and his next of kin was his mother, Mary, of Clunes. Kempson Died of Wounds on April 20, 1917 having being shot in the abdomen. What was the connection to Officer? I don't know - he was born in Picton in New South Wales, his mother's maiden name was Kempson and the Kempson family had a connection to Clunes. I am presuming he managed a farm in the area. Kempson is also listed on the Officer Recreation Reserve gates.
Waldon, H There are two H. Waldons who enlisted - Harold Victor, a printer from New South Wales and who enlisted in N.S.W and Harry Mansfield a 21 year old horse driver, who was born in Western Australia and enlisted in W.A. Neither of them seem likely candidates to be on the Officer Honor board. There are also no H. Waldrons that I can find with an Officer connection, the Electoral Rolls were no help, so this man is another mystery.
Were, Clive Wellington (SN 521) Clive enlisted on August 17, 1914 at the age of 25 and was Killed in Action at Gallipoli on April 25, 1915. His next of kin was his father, who lived in Hawksburn, in Melbourne and as we can see by his obituary, below, he had a farm at Officer. Clive is also listed on the Officer Recreation Reserve gates.
Clive Were's obituary
The Argus June 18, 1915
Whiteside, Thomas Clair (SN 2821) Known as Clair. Clair was born in California and his father was the Presbyterian Minister at Berwick. Clair was a 21 year old orchardist when he enlisted on July 17, 1915. He Returned to Australia December 4, 1918. The family lived on Whiteside Road at Officer or Beaconsfield Lower as it was sometimes listed in his service record. Thomas went back to the family farm after the War and was also a Shire of Berwick Councillor for ten years. Thomas' daughter, Elizabeth, has complied her father's letters and they were published as A Valley in France : World War I letters to his parents and sister while on Active Service from Egypt, France and Great Britain, 1915-1918.
Whittney, Leonard James (SN 3935) Leonard enlisted on July 22, 1915 at the age of 35. His occupation was storekeeper. Leonard was born in Kapunda in South Australia and his next of kin was his father, who also lived in South Australia. Leonard Died of Wounds (compound fracture of the skull) on February 13, 1917. What was his connection to Officer? Leonard worked at the Peterson's store (see Fred and Oscar Peterson's entry above) and this is confirmed by a letter Elizabeth Peterson wrote to Army Records asking for an address for Leonard and she wrote inter alia 'he enlisted from our house in Officer' Leonard is also listed on the Officer Recreation Reserve gates, although his name is incorrectly listed as Whitney.
Elizabeth Peterson's letter about an address for Leonard Whitney.
First Australian Imperial Force Personnel Dossiers, 1914-1920
Williams, Thomas Henry (SN 5776) Thomas was born at Officer and enlisted on February 14, 1916 at the age of 26. He was a farm labourer and his next of kin was his mother, Sarah Ridgway, of Clyde. Thomas died on April 18, 1917 when he was a Prisoner of War, held by the Germans. Sarah Ridgway was the grand daughter of Sarah Fagan and the daughter of Sarah and George Hall, you can read about the family, here.
Woods, Frederick (SN 5773) Frederick enlisted on March 14, 1916. He was 25 year old sawyer and his next of kin was his wife, Hazel. Fred was born at Officer. He Returned to Australia January 25, 1919.
Monday, June 4, 2018
The Dawes Brothers of Iona
In our series of Brothers who Enlisted are the Dawes' brothers of Iona - Albert, Clifford, Gladstone, Victor and Walter - the sons of Alfred and Elizabeth Dawes. Or were they the sons of Alfred and Elizabeth? First of all we will look at their enlistment details, then I have done some research into their family tree.
Dawes, Albert (SN 736) Albert was a 24 year old carpenter when he enlisted on October 20, 1914. His next of kin was listed as 'Father and Mother' Kirwan's Post Office, via Garfield and as 'Mr Dawes' on the Embarkation Roll. He sustained a bullet wound in the left wrist and Returned to Australia on February 9, 1916 for a medical discharge. Albert was a Soldier Settler - you can read his file on the Battle to Farm website here.
Dawes, Clifford Gordon (SN 5086) Clifford was an 18 year old farmer when he enlisted on January 26, 1916. His next of kin was his father, Alfred, of Iona. He Returned to Australia on July 21, 1917 for a medical discharge - 'Gun shot wounds multiple' was the reason. Clifford is listed on the Bunyip War Memorial.
Dawes, Gladstone (SN 4178) Gladstone enlisted on July 20 1915 aged 18. His next of kin was his mother, Mrs A. Dawes of Iona, and his father was listed as Alfred Dawes, Senior. Gladstone was Killed in Action in France on June 17, 1918.
Dawes, Victor (SN 3080) Victor enlisted on July 20, 1915 aged 21 and his next of kin was his mother, Mrs Elizabeth Dawes of Garfield. He Returned to Australia on July 3, 1919.
Dawes, Walter (SN 4093) Walter enlisted on January 10, 1916. He was a 22 year old carpenter and his next of kin was his father, Albert. Albert's address was Kirwan's Post Office, via Garfield. Walter Returned to Australia June 4, 1919.
Alfred and Elizabeth (nee Morgan) Dawes are listed in the Electoral Roll in 1914 at Iona. Were these boys brothers? According to the Indexes to the Victoria Births, Deaths and Marriages - Albert was born with the surname Morgan in 1890 to Louise Morgan, unknown father, but the middle name was Dawes, so that's a clue. When he died in 1962 he had Dawes as a surname, Alfred Henry as the father and Louise Morgan as his mother.
Walter was born in Richmond in 1893 as Walter George Dawes Morgan to Louise Morgan, no father listed.
Victor was born in 1896 at Bunyip South (old name for Iona), with Dawes as the surname, to Alfred Dawes and Elizabeth Morgan.
Gladstone was born with Morgan as the surname in 1898 to Louise Morgan, father unknown. Clifford was also born in 1898 with Morgan as the surname to Frances Morgan and unknown father, however when he died in 1972 he was listed as a Dawes, father Alfred and mother Elizabeth Morgan.
So what does all this tell us? I believe they were raised as brothers. However, there are a few unanswered questions such as - was Elizabeth also known as Louise and/or Frances? Why was the third child registered as a Dawes but the two born in 1898 registered as Morgans - or were Louise and Frances Morgan relatives of Elizabeth and she took the three boys in and raised them with her only child Victor? I don't know.
Dawes, Albert (SN 736) Albert was a 24 year old carpenter when he enlisted on October 20, 1914. His next of kin was listed as 'Father and Mother' Kirwan's Post Office, via Garfield and as 'Mr Dawes' on the Embarkation Roll. He sustained a bullet wound in the left wrist and Returned to Australia on February 9, 1916 for a medical discharge. Albert was a Soldier Settler - you can read his file on the Battle to Farm website here.
Dawes, Clifford Gordon (SN 5086) Clifford was an 18 year old farmer when he enlisted on January 26, 1916. His next of kin was his father, Alfred, of Iona. He Returned to Australia on July 21, 1917 for a medical discharge - 'Gun shot wounds multiple' was the reason. Clifford is listed on the Bunyip War Memorial.
Dawes, Gladstone (SN 4178) Gladstone enlisted on July 20 1915 aged 18. His next of kin was his mother, Mrs A. Dawes of Iona, and his father was listed as Alfred Dawes, Senior. Gladstone was Killed in Action in France on June 17, 1918.
Dawes, Victor (SN 3080) Victor enlisted on July 20, 1915 aged 21 and his next of kin was his mother, Mrs Elizabeth Dawes of Garfield. He Returned to Australia on July 3, 1919.
Dawes, Walter (SN 4093) Walter enlisted on January 10, 1916. He was a 22 year old carpenter and his next of kin was his father, Albert. Albert's address was Kirwan's Post Office, via Garfield. Walter Returned to Australia June 4, 1919.
Gladstone Morgan Dawes, standing.
Photo possibly taken in Egypt. The two seated soldiers are said to be Gladstone's cousins perhaps Raymond Oswald Dawes (SN 430) and Edmond Withers Dawes (SN 2368)
Alfred and Elizabeth (nee Morgan) Dawes are listed in the Electoral Roll in 1914 at Iona. Were these boys brothers? According to the Indexes to the Victoria Births, Deaths and Marriages - Albert was born with the surname Morgan in 1890 to Louise Morgan, unknown father, but the middle name was Dawes, so that's a clue. When he died in 1962 he had Dawes as a surname, Alfred Henry as the father and Louise Morgan as his mother.
Walter was born in Richmond in 1893 as Walter George Dawes Morgan to Louise Morgan, no father listed.
Victor was born in 1896 at Bunyip South (old name for Iona), with Dawes as the surname, to Alfred Dawes and Elizabeth Morgan.
Gladstone was born with Morgan as the surname in 1898 to Louise Morgan, father unknown. Clifford was also born in 1898 with Morgan as the surname to Frances Morgan and unknown father, however when he died in 1972 he was listed as a Dawes, father Alfred and mother Elizabeth Morgan.
So what does all this tell us? I believe they were raised as brothers. However, there are a few unanswered questions such as - was Elizabeth also known as Louise and/or Frances? Why was the third child registered as a Dawes but the two born in 1898 registered as Morgans - or were Louise and Frances Morgan relatives of Elizabeth and she took the three boys in and raised them with her only child Victor? I don't know.
Thursday, April 19, 2018
The Gabbett brothers
In this post, in our series of Brothers who enlisted, we are looking at the Gabbett brothers who had an association with Garfield and Pakenham. Edward (b. 1880), Ernest (1882) and Norcliffe (1896) were the sons of John Norcliffe Gabbett and Marion Auriol Lintott. There were also three daughters - Annie Auriol (1885) possibly a Denise (b. c. 1885) and Eda Marion (1892). John and Marion were married in Buln Buln in 1879 and the marriage notice in The Argus of December 29, 1879 states that he was the second son of the late Major R.P Gabbett, Royal Artillery, and she was the only child of Edward Lintott, Esq. Marion's parents were pioneers of the Brandy Creek (Warragul) area and in her father's obituary it said that the name of Captain Lintott could not be disassociated with that of Brandy Creek. You can read his obituary in the Warragul Guardian, here. Marion's mother came from equally illustrious stock, you can read her obituary in the Warragul Guardian, here. Edward Linnott's obituary said that Marion's husband was Captain Gabbett of the Mounted Rifles.
What else do we know about Captain Gabbett? He resigned his commission in the Victorian Mounted Rifles in November 1889 and the same year he was appointed Deputy Registrar of Births and Deaths in Drouin. In 1902 he was appointed as a Commissioner for taking Declarations and Affidavits at Toora. In September 1904, Captain Gabbett, went missing. He was on a fishing excursion and when he went to board the boat in the evening, it is believed that he slipped and possibly hit his head. A search was undertaken but his body was not found - I couldn't find an Inquest record or a death registration, so it's all a bit of a mystery. As for Marion, in 1926 she married Henry St Leger Skinner and died at the age of 90 in 1943.
By now you are probably thinking - what is the Casey Cardinia connection? Here it is - Marion and her son Norcliffe were living in Pakenham when he enlisted. As well, son Ernest and his wife Eveline are listed in the Electoral Rolls at Garfield in 1914, his occupation was merchant, Marion was also listed at Garfield. They must have moved to Pakenham around 1914 and opened a drapers shop which Eveline operated when her husband was away at the War. In 1919 Ernest and Eveline are in the Electoral Roll at Pakenham - his occupation is a tailor and Eveline was listed as a draper.
Gabbett, Edward Norcliffe (Service Number 845) Edward was 34 years old when he enlisted on July 8, 1915 and his next of kin was his wife, Lilian, of Stratford. His occupation was Agent. Edward was wounded in action - gun shot wound to left leg - and had to have the leg amputated. He was sent back to England for recuperation and Returned to Australia November 25, 1917 and was medically discharged. In spite of this set back he lived until the age of 91 and died in 1972.
Gabbett, Ernest Poole (SN 2846) Ernest was a 32 year storekeeper when he enlisted on August 25, 1914. His next of kin was his wife, Eveline. He was wounded in action - shot in the arm - and after a time spent recuperating in England he Returned to Australia October 7, 1918. Ernest also lived to a good age and died in 1962 aged 80.
Gabbett, Norcliffe Esca (SN 1167) Norcliffe was only 18 when he enlisted on March 15, 1915. His next of kin was his mother of Pakenham. Sadly, only 8 months after he enlisted Norcliffe Died of Wounds on the Gallipoli Peninsula on November 5, 1915. I have called him Norcliffe, but he seems to have been known as Esca and he is listed on the Drouin State School Honor Roll as Esca Gabbett. You can see the list of names from this roll, here.http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article136653646
What else do we know about Captain Gabbett? He resigned his commission in the Victorian Mounted Rifles in November 1889 and the same year he was appointed Deputy Registrar of Births and Deaths in Drouin. In 1902 he was appointed as a Commissioner for taking Declarations and Affidavits at Toora. In September 1904, Captain Gabbett, went missing. He was on a fishing excursion and when he went to board the boat in the evening, it is believed that he slipped and possibly hit his head. A search was undertaken but his body was not found - I couldn't find an Inquest record or a death registration, so it's all a bit of a mystery. As for Marion, in 1926 she married Henry St Leger Skinner and died at the age of 90 in 1943.
By now you are probably thinking - what is the Casey Cardinia connection? Here it is - Marion and her son Norcliffe were living in Pakenham when he enlisted. As well, son Ernest and his wife Eveline are listed in the Electoral Rolls at Garfield in 1914, his occupation was merchant, Marion was also listed at Garfield. They must have moved to Pakenham around 1914 and opened a drapers shop which Eveline operated when her husband was away at the War. In 1919 Ernest and Eveline are in the Electoral Roll at Pakenham - his occupation is a tailor and Eveline was listed as a draper.
Gabbett, Edward Norcliffe (Service Number 845) Edward was 34 years old when he enlisted on July 8, 1915 and his next of kin was his wife, Lilian, of Stratford. His occupation was Agent. Edward was wounded in action - gun shot wound to left leg - and had to have the leg amputated. He was sent back to England for recuperation and Returned to Australia November 25, 1917 and was medically discharged. In spite of this set back he lived until the age of 91 and died in 1972.
A report of the return of Ernest Gabbett, whose wife has conducted a drapery business here [Pakenham] during the greater part of Mr Gabbett's absence with the A.I.F abroad.
South Bourke and Mornington Journal November 28, 1918
Mrs Gabbett's advertisement from the Pakenham Gazette June 15, 1917
A welcome home to Ernest Gabbett and other Pakenham soldiers.
Dandenong Advertiser December 12, 1918.
Gabbett, Norcliffe Esca (SN 1167) Norcliffe was only 18 when he enlisted on March 15, 1915. His next of kin was his mother of Pakenham. Sadly, only 8 months after he enlisted Norcliffe Died of Wounds on the Gallipoli Peninsula on November 5, 1915. I have called him Norcliffe, but he seems to have been known as Esca and he is listed on the Drouin State School Honor Roll as Esca Gabbett. You can see the list of names from this roll, here.http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article136653646
A report of the death of Norcliffe Gabbett
Bunyip Free Press December 2, 1915
Wednesday, April 11, 2018
Tooradin State School Honour Roll
The Cranbourne Shire Historical Society is the custodian of the Tooradin State School Honor Board - you can view it at the Fishermans Cottage Museum, Foreshore Road, Tooradin. They are open Sunday afternoons 12noon to 4.00pm or by appointment.
The Honor Board lists the names of men from Tooradin who served in the Great War who had an association with the Tooradin State School. Here are the soldiers, who are listed on the Board. I have listed their Service Numbers (SN) so you can look up their full record on the National Archives of Australia www.naa.gov.au
Alford, J According to the book Tooradin: 125 years of Coastal History* a Joe Alford was at the school around 1908 - 1910, so you would have to assume that this is J. Alford listed on the Honour Board. The 1908, 1909 Electoral Roll has a William Alford listed at Tooradin, so that fits in with Joe's commencement date at the School. There is a funeral notice in The Argus on March 23, 1909 for Annie Alford, 'late of Tooradin' this was most likely Ann Eliza Alford (nee Rogers) whose death was registered at Cranbourne - she was 72 years old. She was married to a William Alford, but at that age clearly was not the mother of a school age Joe, but possibly the grandmother. There are a number of Joseph Alfords who enlisted but none that I can find with a connection to Tooradin. Even allowing for the fact that the Joe Alford listed as a pupil in the book is a red herring, I still cannot find a J. Alford with a local connection.
Amos, Victor Anthony (SN 2868) Victor and his siblings, Cyril and Daisy enrolled at the school in 1893. Their brother, Eric, started in 1900. Victor enlisted on June 13, 1916 at the age of 32. He was a farmer and his next of kin was his wife, Margaret, and they were living at Leongatha. Victor Returned to Australia May 6, 1919.
Cole, William Preston (SN 3629) William, a clerk, enlisted on July 19, 1915 at the age of 25. His father was William Cole of Lang Lang. William Returned to Australia May 8, 1919. William's father, also called William, was a Police Constable and he was shifted from Tooradin to the newly established Police Station at Lang Lang in 1910. His mother was Charlotte Catherine Cole.
The Age April 30, 1910.
Duff, Charles Alexander (SN 859 and 237) Charles enlisted on May 31, 1915 at the age of 19, then returned to Australia because of illness and the enlisted again May 16, 1916 when he was 20. Charles was Killed in Action in Belgium June 8, 1917. Charles was the son of William Tucker Duff and the grandly named, Alice Laura Constance Beauchamp Hobart. He was also the grandson of the Reverend Alexander Duff and his wife, Annie Tucker.
Duff, T - I can't find a T. Duff with a connection to Tooradin. Charles' brother, William Vere Hobart Duff (SN 860) enlisted on January 6, 1916 aged 23. His next of kin was his wife, Brenda, of East Malvern. William Returned to Australia on January 10, 1918.
Cardinia State School established a tree plantation in honour of local soldiers in July 1917 and both Charles and William were honoured with a tree, so he is a likely candidate to also be on the Tooradin Honor Roll. You can read about the Cardinia plantation, here.
George Denham's Royal Navy enlistment paper - you can download a copy from the Australian War Memorial website https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/R1427719
Denham, George Dunlop. George was a stoker in the Royal Navy, he enlisted in 1908
Denham, Robert Alexander (SN 392) Robert was born in Koo Wee Rup and was living in Carlton and he was a fireman when he enlisted at the age of 28 on February 17, 1915 (that's the date according to the Embarkation roll and July 17, 1915 is the date according to the Enlistment papers). His next of kin was his friend Annie Ritchie. Robert Returned to Australia July 10 1916 and was discharged on medical grounds due to a form of rheumatism.
George and Robert were the sons of John and Janet Denham. John Denham was the Cranbourne Shire Secretary from 1909 to 1911 and the Rate collector for nine years, he also had a store at Yallock and a dairy farm at Koo Wee Rup. Janet's father, Alexander Dunlop, had the Harewood Mains property at Tooradin and had a successful cheese making business.
Evans, Matthew Lance (SN 7006) Matthew was 21 when he enlisted on October 27, 1916. He was a picture framer and his next of kin was his father, Lance, of South Melbourne. Matthew was Killed in Action in France on September 18, 1918. Matthew was the son of Lance and Mary (nee Petch) Evans and the grandson of Matthew Evans. Matthew Evans (1836-1909) was an early resident of Tooradin. You can read more about Matthew Evans, here.
The Age October 12, 1918
Hardy, Horace Robert (SN 19995) Horace enlisted on June 20, 1917 at the age of 21. He Returned to Australia July 13, 1919. Horace was the son of William John Hardy (c. 1855 - 1940) and Sophia Wells Cadd (1856 - 1919) of Dalmore. His paternal grandparents, Emling and Emily (nee Gregory) Hardy took up land at Clyde North in 1856 - Hardy Road is named after the family. His maternal grandparents were Thomas and Sarah (nee Wells) Cadd who took up land at Clyde in 1862.
Henderson, Leslie Rupert (SN 369) I presume that as this man is listed as R. L Henderson that he was known as Rupert, so I will call him that. Rupert enlisted on September 15, 1914. He was a 27 year old tram conductor. His was born in Tooradin and his next of kin was his mother, Mrs D.M Henderson (Mrs David Metcalf Henderson, nee Christina McKay) of Tooradin. Rupert Returned to Australia November 15, 1918.
Irvine, H.R You would think this would be easy to find but I cannot find a H.R Irvine or H.R Irving who enlisted; there are no Irvines/Irvings listed in the Tooradin: 125 years of Coastal History and I can't find an Irvine/Irving in the Electoral Rolls, so I am not sure who this is.
Lewitzka, Herbert John (SN 28415) Herbert was 18, a student, when he enlisted on May 11, 1916. He was born in Beulah and his mother, Mary Schneider of Murrayville, was his next of kin. Herbert Returned to Australia July 1, 1919. What was his connection to Tooradin? There are only two Lewitzkas who enlisted in the War, the other is his brother, Frederick James (SN 32297) who was a 24 year old farmer when he enlisted in September 1916. Mary Schneider was born Mary Jane Jeffrey and married Frederick Lewitzka in 1891, they were divorced in 1903 on the grounds of his 'habitual drunkedness' and she then married Johann August Schneider also in 1903. Mary and Johann (or John as he was listed) are in the 1909 Electoral Roll at Tooradin, with his occupation as storekeeper.
McCulloch, David Stuart (SN 2107) David, who was born in Melbourne, was a 22 year old farmer from Parkes in New South Wales when he enlisted on June 26, 1917. His next of kin was his father, David, of Tralee, Parkes. David Returned to Australia May 11, 1919. David McCulloch senior purchased the Tooradin Estate in 1880 and built the existing brick house, he was married to Janet Margaret McDonald Craik, the daughter of Mr George Craik, owner of Kincraik in Beaconsfield Upper. Kincraik, opened in 1888, was a 32 room guest house, which had views to Western Port and the Morningon Peninsula. The name was changed to Salisbury House in 1896 and after various changes of ownership it became a nursing home in 1989. You can read an account of their 1890 wedding, here.
The obituary of David McCulloch senior, which lists his extensive land holdings including
Tooradin Estate and Tralee, Parkes.
The Argus October 2, 1944
Milburn, John (SN 966) John was born in Tooradin and his next of kin was his mother, Emily, whose address was State School, Tooradin. John's father, William, was the Head Teacher at Tooradin from 1886 to 1917. John enlisted on May 6, 1915. He was a 23 year old sleeper hewer. John suffered a severe bullet wound to the right arm in September 1918, recuperated in hospital in England and Returned to Australia March 31, 1919.
Moore, C Not sure who this is. There was a Cornelius and a Richard Moore at the school in 1893, but I cannot find a Cornelius who enlisted. There is a Thomas and Mary Moore listed in the Electoral Rolls at Sherwood (which is in the region of where the Tooradin-Baxter Road intersects with the South Gippsland Highway and along to Fisheries Road) in 1905 and 1906, so this person may be connected to them.
Mundy, William James (SN 1637) William was a 21 year old carpenter when he enlisted on May 8, 1916. His next of kin was his wife, Jessie, of Dandenong. William was wounded in action - gun shot wound to the neck - in September 1918 and after a period of time in hospital in England he Returned to Australia April 19, 1919. William was born in Hastings and he was the son of Henry and Amelia (nee Kernot) Mundy. Henry Mundy was a professional fisherman at Tooradin as were members of the Kernot family. You can read about the Kernot's family long connection to Tooradin, here.
Porter, J.C Another mystery - I cannot find a J.C Porter who enlisted with any local connections, they are not in Tooradin: 125 years of Coastal History and no local Porters on the Electoral Roll.
Robins, Arthur Welsley Underwood (SN 35 and 2271) Arthur was a 19 year old sawmiller when he enlisted on October 5, 1914. He fought at Gallipoli, was shot in the left arm and sent back to Australia and was discharged on medical grounds on April 28, 1916. Arthur then enlisted again on May 31, 1917 and Returned to Australia January 24, 1919.
Robins, Rufus Roy (SN 64558) Roy, is what he seems to have been known as, enlisted on June 25, 1918. He was 20 years old and an orchardist. He was sent overseas in September 1918 and Returned to Australia July 10, 1919.
Arthur and Roy were the sons of Edwin and Alice (nee Underwood) Robins. Edwin was the licensee of the Bridge Hotel at Tooradin from 1909 to 1917. When Roy enlisted in 1918 the family were living in Glen Waverley. The Robins' had another son who went to war, Henry Albert (SN 5185), he was 28, an engine driver, when he enlisted in January 1916, so too old to have attended the Tooradin State School in the time frame the family was there. Henry was wounded in action - gun shot wounds to left arm and left thigh and Returned to Australia August 1917 and was medically discharged. Bit of family history: Edwin and Alice had sixteen children between 1879 and 1905. Arthur and Roy were born in Barramunga, in the Otway Ranges, south of Forrest, and Henry was born in Sale, so the family shifted around a fair bit. Another son, Charles, married Molly Milburn in 1912, the sister of John Milburn, listed above.
Report of Roy Robins' enlistment in the Dandenong Advertiser June 13, 1918
Stredwick, Ralph Edmund (SN 35910) Ralph was 22 when he enlisted on September 25, 1916. He was a labourer. Ralph Returned to Australia February 28, 1919. You can read a letter that Ralph sent back to his parents in 1918, published in the Benalla Independent on March 29, 1918, here.
Stredwick, Roger Charles (SN 218) Roger was a 21 year old dentist when he enlisted on August 19, 1914. Roger Returned to Australia July 7, 1916 and was discharged on medical grounds in February 1917 (Malaria). It appears that becoming a dentist at that time was done as an apprenticeship as Roger was listed as an apprentice to Dr Vandenberg of Benalla.
Roger and Ralph, both born at Benalla, were the sons of William Stredwick and Ada Mary Walter, who operated the Tooradin Store from 1906 to 1909, but were living in Benalla when the boys enlisted. Roger was born in 1893 so was his stated age of 21 when he enlisted, however Ralph was born in 1898, so was actually only 18 when he enlisted, not 22 like he claimed.
Strudwicke, George Poole (SN 7305) Surname is listed as Stredwick on the Honor Board. George was a 29 year old farmer when he enlisted on October 7, 1916. He was born in Tooradin and his next of kin was his mother, Catherine Strudwicke, of Lang Lang. George was wounded in action and had his left leg amputated and was in hospital in England for over a year before he Returned to Australia December 13, 1918. George was the son of Mary Catherine Strudwicke (nee George) and her 'partner' George Poole. You can read about George Poole and his relationship with Mrs Strudwicke, here.
Is there a connection between the Stredwick boys and George Strudwicke? They are both unusual surnames and perhaps one branch of the family changed the spelling.
Warnes, William Edward (SN 505) William enlisted at the age of 24 on September 14, 1914. His next of kin was his mother, Elizabeth, of Cranbourne. William enrolled at Tooradin State School in 1900. William Died of Wounds, whilst a Prisoner of War, on the Gallipoli Peninsula on August 8, 1915.
From William Warnes' file
National Archives of Australia www.naa.gov.au
First Australian Imperial Force Personnel Dossiers, 1914-1920
William Warnes was the adopted son of Elizabeth Warnes. She wrote this letter to the Army in August 1920 and she said, in part, the Neglected Childrens Department at Royal Park handed him to my care at the age of about sight months and when he was seven years old I adopted him and he lived me with me and my family until he enlisted and went to the War.
From William Warnes' file
National Archives of Australia www.naa.gov.au
First Australian Imperial Force Personnel Dossiers, 1914-1920
A touching letter written by William's friend James Pasmore to Mrs Warnes about William's death. James Pasmore (SN 486) enlisted on September 14, 1914 and Returned to Australia in February 1919.
*Tooradin: 125 years of coastal history - Blind Bight, Cannon's Creek, Sherwood, Tooradin North, Warneet 1875-2000 State school No. 1503 compiled by John Wells and the 'Tooradin Celebrates Together 125 Years of Education Committee', published by the Committee in 2001. The book has a list of students who attended Dalmore, Tooradin and Tooradin North State Schools.
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