First World War Commonwealth War Grave - Private George James Devonshire, Royal Berkshire Regiment

 

"They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old.

Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.

At the going down of the sun and in the morning

We will remember them".

 

 

 

George James Devonshire was born in 1891 in Slough Buckinghamshire (now Berkshire) to William Herbert Devonshire, a butcher, and his wife Sarah Ann May.

 

 

In 1901 George and his family were living in Middle Green, Langley Marsh, Buckinghamshire.  However, in 1911 George can be found working as a cowman on a farm and lodging with Emma Plum a 66-year-old widow and her son Fred, in Hurley Village, Berkshire.

In 1915 in Maidenhead George married Edith Eaton, and they lived together in 58 Powney Road, Maidenhead.

George first enlisted with the Royal Berkshire Regiment, later being transferred to the Labour Corps.
 

Sadly, George was to pass away the day after World War I came to an end.  Edith gave birth to their only child, a son also named George James on 30th July 1919. Edith later remarried in 1926 to Frederick Gray.

 

 



Frances Louisa Comber - Night Watchman's Wife

Monument to Frances Louisa Comber, Bray Parish Cemetery, Holyport Berkshire.

"In loving memory of Frances Louisa beloved wife of Charles Comber who fell asleep April 28th 1907 aged 52 years.  Her end was peace."

Frances Louisa Comber was born Frances/Louisa Gardner on 19th July 1855 at New Street, Clapham, London to William Gardener, a whitesmith, and his second wife Frances Wilson.  I have been unable to trace Frances on the early Census returns. Frances appears int he 1871 Census listed as Louisa, aged 17, working as a kitchen maid in the home of Emily H Ragland at 5 Great Stanhope Street, Mayfair, London.

In 1878 Frances married Charles Comber, a police constable, in Wandsworth Surrey.  In 1881 the newlyweds can be found living at 35 Union Street in Clapham London with their two young daughters Louisa J aged 1 year, and Lucy aged just 6 days.  At that time Frances was using the name Louisa.

By 1891 family had moved to Oakley Green in Bray, Berkshire.  Charles is now a night watchman at New Lodge, and the family has expanded to include Charles William aged 9, Marther [sic] aged 4, Ernest aged 2, and baby Albert, just 11 months old.  Frances is now using the name Frances Lou.

1901 finds the family living at  Braywood Cottages in Bray, Berkshire.  Charles is still a Night Watchman, but Frances has now gone back to using the name Louisa.  Their family has expanded again to include Amelia aged 8, and Elizabeth aged 3.

Sadly, Frances was to pass away on 28th April 1907, the death index has her name listed as Louisa Frances.

The widowed Charles can be found on the 1911 Census living with his youngest daughters Louisa Jane, and Elizabeth, at Braywood Cottages, Bray, Berkshire. Charkes was to retire as a night watchman in 1913 on medical advice. The Maidenhead Advertiser reported on 5th July 1913:

"BRAYWOOD. RESIDENT.--Braywood has lost a familiar figure owing to the retirement of Mr. Charles Comber, who for 25 years has acted as night-watchman at New Lodge. Mr. Comber has been in bad health for some time, and under the doctor's orders was obliged to give up his work. He retires on a pension which it is hoped he will live long, with improved health, to enjoy."

He must have loved Frances very much to have such a beautiful monument made in her memory.

Cemetery Sunday - Roman Numerals

"Sacred to the memory of Mr. Thomas Smith

many years the landlord of the

Bull Inn Bisham

who died February the 1 - 1833 In the LXIX (69) of his Age.

Also

Elizabeth Smith

Wife of the above

who died Jaunuary the 25- 1849

In the LXVIII (68) of her Age."

Dray carts outside The Bull Inn (right)
(c) English Heritage

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Emma Hunt and Her Husband George Hunt - Our Mother, Our Father

Monument to Emma and George Hunt, Bray Parish Cemetery, Holyport Berkshire.

"In loving memory 

of

 our mother 

Emma Hunt 

who died May 13th 1925 

aged 78 years

also of

our father

George Hunt 

who died at Aldershot 

December 5th 1889 

aged 44 years"

 

George Hunt was born in St Pancras London in 1846 to James Hunt, a menagerie keeper at London Zoological Gardens, and Elizabeth Greenaway.  On the 1851 census, five-year-old George can be found living with his parents, older siblings, Elizabeth, and Martha, as well as his grandmother Elizabeth Greenaway, at the Zoological Gardens in Regent's Park, London.  By 1861 James had retired as a keeper and he, his wife Elizabeth, and son George had moved to 3 Eaton Place, Regent's Park, London. By 1871 James had taken up accountancy and the three family members moved to Upper York Place, Marylebone, London.  George was to later become a confectioner.

On 19th April 1873 George married Emma Misselbrook at St Pancras.  Together they had six children: James Benjamin, Elizabeth, Minnie, Kate Misselbrook, George James, and May.  James Benjamin, Elizabeth, and George James were to all die tragically young, Emma and George both aged 30 years and James in infancy. On the 1881 census the family can be found living at The Running Stream, a small public house in Weybourne Lane, Farnham, Surrey. George was to pass away on December 5th 1889 in Aldershot, Surrey. I have been unable to find anything on his death.

Emma Hunt was born Emma Misselbrook in 1847 to Benjamin Misslebrook, a head keeper at London Zoological Gardens, and Jane Goulden.  Emma first appears on the 1851 Census, aged 3, living with her parents and siblings in Marylebone, London. On the 1861 Census the family can be found living at the Head Keeper's Lodge, Zoological Gardens, Regent's Park, London. It's possible that Emma met George while his family was also living at working at the Zoological Gardens.

After George's death Emma went into domestic service with her daughter Kate Misselbrook Hunt. In 1901 Emma appears as a domestic housekeeper living in Holyport, with her daughter Kate.  By 1911 Emma is living with her youngest daughter May.  Emma remained in Holyport until her death

This one family really did suffer its fair share of tragedy .

Family Connections; Emma and George James Hunt, daughter and son.

First World War Commonwealth War Grave - Private George Grove, Worcestershire Regiment

 

 

"They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old.

Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.

At the going down of the sun and in the morning

We will remember them".

 

 

 

George Grove was born in Bray Berkshire in 1883 to John Grove, a gardener, and Emma Styles.

On the 1891 Census, George can be found living with his parents and siblings at 1 Martins Cottages, Boyne Hill, Maidenhead, Berkshire.

George's mother Emma was to pass away on March 7th 1899. After her death George and his brother Arthur went to live with their maternal aunt Mary Hunter, and her husband George at 4 Broadway, Maidenhead, Berkshire. By 1911 the family h ad moved to 7 Broadway, where both George and his brother Arthur were working as Jobbing Gardeners. Their father John Grove spent the years leading up to his own death in 1922, lodging in various public and common lodging houses.

Sometime after the outbreak of war George enlisted with the Worcestershire Labour Corps Regiment.  Labour Corps were generally made of men who were not fit for service in the trenches.

George was to pass away on 24th October 1918 of Pneumonia, in Wareham Dorset, Possibly Worgret Camp, the location of Wareham Miliary Hospital.

 



Emma Hunt and Her Brother Geroge James Hunt - Both Passed Away Aged 30 Years

Monument to siblings Emma, and George James Hunt, Bray Parish Cemetery, Holyport Berkshire.

"In

 loving memory of 

Emma 

daughter of 

George and Emma Hunt 

who fell asleep March 21st 1905 

aged 30 years 

- I came to Jesus as I was - 

and 

George James Hunt 

only son, 

who died May 31st 1910 aged 30 years

- we loved them well but Jesus loved them best."

 

Emma Hunt was born in 1875 in Aldershot, Hampshire to George James Thomas Hunt, a confectioner and Emma Misselbrook. George James Hunt was born in 1880 in Farnham, Surrey.

On the 1881 census six-year-old Emma and eleven-month-old George can be found living with their parents and their sisters, Minnie aged five and Kate aged three, at The Running Stream, a small public house in Weybourne Lane, Farnham Surrey.  In 1889 George James Thomas Hunt passed away in Aldershot in Farnham, by 1891 the recently widowed Emma moved with her daughters to 61 Ifield Road, Kensington, London, for some reason the eleven-year-old George is not with them.  It is possible that he is either staying with relatives elsewhere or at school, however I have been unable to find him from 1881 until his death in 1910. By 1901 Emma and her daughters Kate, and Emma had moved to Holyport, Emma was working as a parlourmaid at Chuffs House, Holyport Berkshire for the Fremantle family.

Emma was to pass away on 21st March 1905 after a long illness. The Maidenhead Advertiser reported on 29th March 1905:

"HOLYPORT. FUNERAL.—On Friday last, the remains of Miss Emma Hunt, who died at Holyport, after a long illness, on March 21, were interred in Bray Cemetery, in the presence of a large number of sympathising friends. The mourners were Mrs. Hunt (mother) and the brothers [sic] and sisters. Mr. J. B. Westropp and Mr. W. Webb were also amongst those present. The coffin, which was of polished elm, with brass fittings, bore the following inscription: 

" Emma Hunt, died March 21, 1905, aged 30 years."

There were a large number of beautiful wreaths, contributed by the following Mr. and Mn. Webb, Mr. and Mrs. J. Pithers. " The Estate Employees, The Lodge, Holyport," Mr. J. B. Westropp, Mr. and Mrs. Bann, "A Friend " (Ada Fulford), Mrs. Fremantle, " Aunt Sarah and cousins." Mr. aid Mrs. J. Blake, Mr. and Mrs. Tozer, Miss Crombie, Mr. and Mrs. Norgrove and family, "Nellie and Emmie," " Kate and J. Milers," Mrs. White, "Percy and Alice," "8, Carlos-place, with loving thoughts." The funeral arrangements were well-carried out by Mr. F. Sexton, undertaker, of Holyport."

F Sexton was the son of Frederick Sexton of Holyport. 

George James Hunt was to pass away on 31st May 1910 in Middlesex Hospital, London. The Maidenhead Advertiser reported on 8th June 1910: 

"HOLYPORT. DEATH OF MR. G. J. HUNT.—We regret to record the death of Mr. George James Hunt, which occurred at Middlesex Hospital. London. on May 31, at the age of 30 veers. Deceased had been in the service of Mr. S. Heilbut, of The Lodge, Holyport, and 8. Carlos-place, London, for 16 years, ans was much respected by his master and mistress and fellow-workers. The funeral took place on Saturday last at Bray Cemetery, the service being conducted by the Vicar of Bray (Rev. C. A. Raymond). The coffin, which was of polished oak, with brass fittings. bore the following inscription: 

' George Thomas Hunt [sic], died May 31. 1910. aged 30 years.' 

The mourners were : Mrs. Hunt mother Mrs. Thomas (sister). Mrs. Pattenden (sister). Miss May Hunt (sister)., Mr. Thomas (brother-in-law), fellow servants at 8 Carlos Place, and employees at "The Lodge" Holyport Estate. There were a large number of beautiful floral tokens contributed by the following :—His sorrowing mother, Mr. and Mrs. S. Heilbut. Sir Douglas Straight, Mr. J. B. Westropp. employees at The Lodge," Friends at 8. Carlos Place, Friends at 8. Mount Row, Servants at 16a, New Cavendish-street, Mr. and Mrs. W. Webb, Mr. and Mrs. Hearn, Mr. and Mrs. J. Blake. Mrs. A Jefferson. Mr. and Mrs. Brown. Mr. and Mrs. P. White. Mr. and Mrs. D. Pithers, Mrs. Gray, Amy and Dolly, Mr. and Mrs. Rose, Mr. and Mrs. J. Norgrove, Messrs. Wheer, Aunt Kate Misselbrook, and Cousins. Isabel and May, Mrs. Beldam and family. Rose and Arthur. Rene and Rollie, H. Knight. B. Langford. Jess and Alf, Aunt Sarah, May and Annie. Kate and Jim. Jack and May. Minnie and Tom, and Alf and Amy.—The funeral arrangements were well-carried out by Mr. F. Sexton, undertaker, Holyport."

The grapes and vine that adorn Emma and George's final resting place is said to represent the blood of Christ.

Family Connection: George and Emma Hunt, parents.

Cemetery Sunday - Verse

"Here lieth the body of Elizabeth Rolls who died May 4th 1777 aged 21 years

Grieve not for me my mother dear, I am not dead but Sleeping here.  Your great Afflictions pray restrain.  For we in Heaven may meet again."

"In Memory of Stephen Mason who died April 13th 1800 aged 35 years.

Early in life I left my wife, And my children dear; Unto my God and Great Redeemers Care."


They don't write verse like that anymore.  Two examples of beautiful verse on early gravestones at All Saints Churchyard, Bisham Berkshire.



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John and Elizabeth Day of Moor Farm, Holyport, Berkshire - Christmas Eve Burial

Monument to John and Elizabeth Day, Bray Parish Cemetery, Holyport Berkshire.

"In loving memory of John Day died January 13th 1906 aged 56 years - at rest- 'Thy will be done'.

And of Elizabeth Day died December 21st 1938 aged 85 years."

John Day was born in 1849 in Shottesbrooke, Berkshire to John Day, a Farmer of 133 acres, employing 12 labourers, and his wife Mary Ann Ashton.  John can first be found on the 1851 Census, aged 2, living with his parents and baby sister Harriet, at their farm in Shottesbrook, Berkshire. Living with the family is John's maternal grandmother Frances Ashton, and visiting is Mary Aston, John's cousin. The family are still living in Shottesbrooke, Berkshire in 1861 and 1871. However, I have been unable to locate John on the 1871 Census.

John's mother Mary Ann passed away in 1874. John and the family. along with widower John Snr can be found on the 1881 census living at Pond Wood Farm in Shottesbrooke Berkshire.  Visiting the family is Elizabeth Newport.

Elizabeth Day was born Elizabeth Newport in 1853 at 28 Bush Lane, Middlesex, London, to Philip Newport, a general dealer, and his wife Sarah Osbourne.  Elizabeth first appears on the 1861 Census, aged 8, living with her parents and siblings at 28 Bush Lane, Middlesex, London. Elizabeth's father Philip was to pass away just a year later in 1862. Again, I am unable to locate Elizabeth or her family on the 1871.

John married Elizabeth Newport on 13th July 1883 at St Barnabas Church in Islington Middlesex.  Together they had six children, four sons, Robert (known as Bobbie), John, Arthur Newport, and Frank, and two daughters, May, and Hattie Rose. 

John's father John Snr was to pass away on 2nd February 1888. The Reading Mercury carried the following announcement on 11th February 1888:

"Day-On 1st inst., [sic] at Pond Wood Farm. Shottesbrook. John Day, aged years." 

On the 1891 Census John, Elizabeth and their family can be found living in Holyport. Johne was an active member of the Bray Parish Council, becoming the Vice Chairman. 

John passed away on 13th January 1906 leaving Elizabeth to take over their farm in Holyport.  Her sons John and Arthur Newport Day returned to the family home at Moor Farm in Holyport to help their mother run the family business.  The Slough, Eton Observer reports at the time;

"Holyport.  Death of well-known local farmer.-  We regret to have to record the death on Saturday afternoon of a well-known and highly respected local farmer-Mr. John Day, of Moor farm, Holyport- after a short illness. Mr Day, who formally lived at white Waltham, had farmed at Holyport for a number of years.  He was of a genial disposition, and had many friends.  He took a keen interest in local affairs, and at the time of his death he was a member of the Bray Parish Council.  Much sympathy is felt with Mrs. Day and her family in the great loss in which they have sustained."

John's Funeral was held at St Michael's Church, Bray, Berkshire on 17th January 1906, The Maidenhead Advertiser reported on 24th January 1906:

"FUNEREL OF THE LATE MR. J. DAY. 

The remains of the late Mr. John Day, farmer, of Moor Farm, Holyport, whose death, after a short ill- ness, occurred on the 13th last, were interred in Bray cemetery, on Wednesday afternoon last, in the presence of a very large gathering of sympathising friends. The first part of the funeral service was held at St. Michael's Church, Bray, the officiating clergyman being the Rev. H. J. F. Tringham (curate of Bray). The coffin, which was of polished Canadian elm, with brass furniture, bore the following inscription on a brass plate 

JOHN DAY, 

Died January 13th, 1906, 

Aged 56 years. 

It was covered with a large number of beautiful wreaths. The funeral arrangement& were well carried out by Kr. G. Hooper, undertaker, Maidenhead."

Poor Elizabeth was to experience more tragedy in 1906 when her eldest daughter May was to pass away on 28th May, after complications from an Appendectomy, aged just 16 years old. The Maidenhead Advertiser Reported on 6th June 1906:

"HOLYPORT. DEATH AND FUNIRAL OF MISS MAY DAY.—Much sympathy is felt with Mrs. Day, of Moor Farm, Holyport, in the loss which she has sustained by the death of her eldest daughter—May, aged 16 years—which occurred on May 28th, after undergoing an operation for appendicitis. The funeral took place at Bray cemetery on Tuesday last. The coffin, which was of Canadian elm, with brass fittings, bore the following inscription 

" May Day, died 28th Mey, 1906, aged 16 years."

The funeral arrangements were well-carried out by Mr. G. Hooper. undertaker, Broadway, Maidenhead."

On the 1911 Census widowed Elizabeth can be found living at Moor Farm with her two sons, John, and Arthur Newport Day, and her remaining daughter, Hattie Rose.

Elizabeth was to pass away on 21st December 1938 after a short illness. The Maidenhead Advertiser reported on 29th December 1938:

"THE LATE MRS. E. DAY

The death of Mrs. E. Day, of 47, The Crescent, Maidenhead, removed a well-known from our midst. The deceased lady was an active member of The Women's Unionist Association, Belmont Ward, and her cheery presence will be missed at the meetings. Mrs. Day, who was in her 86th year, was taken seriously ill in her home on December 8th, and was conveyed unconscious to Maidenhead Hospital, but despite medical skill and good nursing she passed away on December 21st without regaining consciousness. She leaves one daughter and four sons to mourn her loss. Two of the sons are living in the U.S.A.

The remains of the deceased lady were laid to rest in the grave of her late husband John Day, at Bray Cemetery, on Christmas Eve, the Rev. Canon A. J. Jones (Vicar of Bray) officiating." 

Moor Farm is a 13th Century farmhouse that was first owned by John Atte More in 1270.  It is now a bed and breakfast with holiday cottages attached.

First World War Commonwealth War Grave - Sapper Charles Edward Cox, Royal Engineers

 

 

"They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old.

Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.

At the going down of the sun and in the morning

We will remember them".

 

 



Charles Edward (known as Charlie to his family) Cox was born on 3rd October 1891 in Ireland to Charles Edwards Cox Snr, a retired Army Lance Sergeant and postmaster, and his wife Elizabeth Stacey. 

Charles's little sister Ada Agnes was born on 24th December 1892 but sadly passed away on 10th June 1893 aged just five months. A little brother Thomas Henry was born in the spring of 1895 but sadly he too was to pass away, aged just 6 weeks old in the May of 1895. Charles Edward Snr and Elizabeth had no further children together.

In 1901 Charles Edward is residing at Oxford Wood Barracks with his mother and father.   

The 1911 Census finds Charles lodging at the house of Albert Rippington in Compton, Berkshire, where Charles is working as a railway porter for the Great Western Railway.

In 1915 in Maidenhead Berkshire Charles Edward Cox married Elsie Elizabeth May Groves, before moving into her family's home at 27 Grenfell Place Maidenhead.

Charles served with the Royal Engineers as a Sapper, a soldier who performs a variety of military engineering duties such as bridge-building, laying or clearing minefields, demolitions, field defences and general construction.

27 Grenfell Place, Maidenhead,
Berkshire.

On 29th February 1920 Charles died of influenza, acute pneumonia, and heart failure at his home, 27 Grenfell Place, aged just 28 years old. Elsie was refused his war pension as the disease he died from was contracted after he was discharged from the Royal Engineers at the end of the war

Charles's father also re-enlisted to fight for his country in 1914 at the age of 49.  He was later discharged as not being fit for any military action due to rheumatism in his wrists, elbows, back and hips.

Sarah Milbourne, Wife of Edward Milbourne of Oakley Place Farm - Her Body Found in a Pond.

Monument to Sarah Milbourne, Bray Parish Cemetery, Holyport Berkshire.

"In loving remembrance of 

Sarah Milbourne

who entered into rest 

Feb 16th 1911 aged 63 years."

Sarah Milbourne was born Sarah Morgan in 1848 in Norton St Philip, Somerset to William Morgan a labourer, and his wife Martha Meader.

Sarah first appears on the 1851 Census, aged 4, living with her parents and siblings at Ringwell, Somerset. In 1861 Sarah can be found living with her mother in Norton St Philip, Somerset. Sarah's father William is away from the family home and living in Leigh, Westbury Wiltshire.

On the 1871 census return Sarah is listed as a cook and domestic servant for the Rev Henry Burney and his family at Vicarage House in Norton St Philip, Somerset. In 1872 Sarah married coachman Edward Milbourne.  By 1881 they had moved from somerset to Langley Berkshire with their three children, Edith Elizabeth, Martha, and William Edward.  By 1891 the family had moved to Old Slade Farm in Iver, Buckinghamshire. 1901 saw another move for the family, they're now living and farming at Oakley Place Farm in Bray Berkshire.  The family had now expanded to include Walter, Herbert, Annie, and Ethel. However, their daughter Martha was a patient at the Berkshire District Lunatic Asylum, in Cholsey, Berkshire.   In 1901 Edward was charged with cruelty to a horse, the Reading Mercury reported on 11th May 1901:

"WINDSOR PETTY SESSIONS. Monday. (Before the Mayor, and A. T. Barber, and T. Dyson, Esqrs.)

Cruelty to Horse.

Edward Milbourne was summoned for cruelty to horse by working it whilst in an unfit condition. Inspector Watling, R.S.P.CA., proved seeing the defendant with the animal in Alma-road, and considered that it was illtreating the horse work in its present condition. The defendant was fined 5s."

Sadly, on July 15th 1902, Martha Milbourne passed away at the Berkshire District Lunatic Asylum, aged only 26 years old. The Maidenhead Advertiser reported on July 23rd 1902:

"Death of Miss. Milbourne - The death occurred (after a long and painful illness), on Tuesday in last week, of Miss. Martha Milbourne, daughter of Mr. and Mr. Milbourne, of Oakley Place, Farm, Oakley Green, at the early age of 26. The funeral took place at Bray cemetery on Monday last, the officiating clergyman being the Rev. H. J. F. Tringham (curate of Bray). The mourners were the father and mother, brothers and sisters. The coffin, which was polished elm with brass furniture, bore the following inscription on a plate: 'Martha Milbourne, died July 15, 1902, aged 26 years.'

The funeral was carried out by Mr. F. Sexton of Holyport."  (The son of Frederick Sexton of Holyport)

They were also to experience the loss of their eldest son William Edward at the age of 29 on 30th January 1910. The Windsor and Eton Express carried the following announcement on 2nd April 1910:

"Deaths -

Milbourne— On the 30th ult.. at Oakley Place Farm. near Windsor, William Edward. eldest son of Edward and Sarah Milbourne, age 29 years."

Sarah passed away on 16th February 1911 not long before the 1911 census was taken in April. The manner of her passing caused quite a stir in the village. The Maidenhead Advertiser reported on 22nd February 1911: 

"Woman Found in Pond at Oakley Green.

A sensation was caused throughout the village of Oakley Green and district on Thursday. when it became known that the wife of Mr. Edward Milbourne, a farmer, of Oakley Place Farm, had been found dead in a pond about a hundred yards from the house. For some time Mrs. Milbourne had not been in the best of health, suffering from influenza, and she appeared to be distressed. She arose about six o'clock on Thursday morning and left the house, telling her daughter that she was going to an outhouse. At 6.50 a.m. she was found dead her son Herbert in the pond, in about five feet of water. Police-constable Huse was sent for and got the body out of the water. 

The coroner's inquiry was conducted by Mr. W. Weedon, Coroner for East Berks. at Oaklev Place Farm, on Friday afternoon. Annie Elizabeth Milbourne, daughter of the deceased, said her mother was sixty-three years of age. She slept with her and early in the morning of the 15th inst. [sic] deceased woke up and asked for a lighted candle, which was given to her. She then said she was going to an anteroom and proceeded if to go there. She did not return and witness went downstairs and found that her mother was not where she said she was going. An alarm was raised. Witness called for her mother all over the place, but received no reply. She then told her Dick, who afterwards found deceased in a pond about a hundred yards away from the farm. deceased was quite sane and clear-headed, but she had been depressed lately. Witness's brother, died about twelve months ago and her sister died eight years ago.

Herbert Milbourne, son of the deceased, gave evidence of going in search of his mother and finding her in the pond at about 6.50 p.m. She was quite dead, and artificial respiration was not restored to as it was considered to be of no use. Where the body was found there were about three or four feet of water, but there was a lot of mud at the bottom. He saw his mother the night previous end she was the same usual. She had been somewhat depressed and had not been well since her son died last March.

A Juryman: :Do you not think your father's conduct had a great deal to do with the action?

Witness: I cannot tell you.
The Coroner: Is your father of intemperate habits?

Witness: No; his habits did not affect her.

The Jury returned a verdict of suicide during a fit of temporary insanity." 

The Windsor and Eton Express reported in the funeral on the 25th February 1911:

"The funeral took place on Tuesday afternoon in Bray Cemetery, amid every sign of sorrow and esteem, as deceased was very highly respected in the neighbourhood. Much sympathy is felt for the family in their great bereavement, as it only some ten months since a son, Mr. W. Milbourne, died after a long and painful illness. The body was enclosed in a shell and placed in an outer coffin of polished elm with brass fittings. It bore the following inscription "Sarah Milbourne, died February 16th, 1911. Aged 63 years." The immediate mourners were Mr. E. Milbourne (husband), Misses C. and D. Milbourne (daughters), Messrs. W. and H. K. Milbourne (sons), Mr. and Mrs. J. King (son-in-law and daughter), Miss Hobbs (niece), and employees on the farm. Most of the inhabitants of Oakley Green were at the graveside. Deceased, who was of a kindly nature, was beloved by all.

The funeral arrangements were efficiently carried out by Mr. F. Sexton, Holyport." 

Not long after the passing of Sarah, there was to be another sudden passing at Oakley Green Farm. Tom Harper Jones, a farm worker, collapsed and died. The Maidenhead Advertiser reported on 15th March 1911:

"BRAY FARMER'S DEATH.

An Inquest was held by the Deputy-Coroner of Windsor (Mr. F. W. Randle Forth, at the King Edward VII. Hospital, on Monday evening, on the body of Tom Harper Jones, aged 49 years, a farmer, late of Oaklev Green Farm, and who belonged to a very old Gloucestershire family, who died suddenly on Friday evening last, at Oakley Green. 

Mrs. Charlotte Jones, of Bray, identified the body as that of her husband, who had been living at Oakley Place Farm. 

Herbert Milbourne, farmer, of Oakley Place Farm, said deceased came to his farm about a month ago, when he appeared to be in good health. He only complained of a cold. Deceased was a sober man. On Friday evening he was found lying underneath a hedge. groaning. He said "Leave me alone; l shall be all right presently" Witness and several men got deceased down to the gate and put him into a trap, in which he was driven to ding Edward VII. Hospital. 

Mrs. Annie Knight. of Oakley Green, gave evidence of seeing deceased just after 5 p.m. coming from Oakley Place Farm. He went through a gate into a meadow and she saw him fall on to the bank. She went up to deceased and asked him if he was unwell. He replied "Go away and don't worry me: leave me alone." Witness went home to light a fire and returned, when she found the witness Milbourne with deceased. Frederick Sexton, builder of Holyport, said his attention was called to deceased in the meadow. Witness asked him what was the matter and he replied that he did not feel well. He complained of pains in the chest. Brandy was fetched for deceased, who was exhausted and groaning. Dr. Morris, house-surgeon at the hospital, said deceased was admitted to the Institution at about 7.30 p.m. on Friday. Witness examined him and found that he was dead. There was extensive kidney disease. and the heart was abnormal. Death was due to apoplexy. A verdict in accordance with the medical evidence was returned."

Recently widowed Edward can still be found at Oakley Place Farm along with his four younger children.  During the Great War Sarah and Edward's youngest daughter Ethel Milbourne, a governess for the Mameretoff was made a prisoner of war whilst passing through Austria with her employer on the way to Russia. The Windsor and Eton Express reported on the 19th December 1914:

"ENGLISH LADY PRISONER Of AUSTRIA. 

Miss Milbourne, daughter of Mr. E Milbourne, of Oakley Place Farm, Oakley Green, near Windsor, who when war was declared was on her way to the Caucasus, in the South of Russia, via Berlin and Warsaw, was made prisoner together with Madame Mameretoff (a Russian lady) and her daughter, to whom Miss Milbourne is governess. The family are in communication with the Foreign Office in order to obtain her release from a prison in Austria. Mrs. J. King, wife of Mr. J. King (a son of Mr. F. King, watchmaker, late of St. Leonard's-road, Windsor), who is now in Tonypandy, has received a letter from her sister, which is dated from the Carlton Hotel, Marienbad, 19th November, in which she says:

I am a war prisoner, and cannot leave here until the war is ended. Madame starts for Switzerland to-morrow, and is taking this letter to post from there, as I cannot send a letter direct to England. I shall be quite alone when they go away. I don't know a soul here and I am the only English girl in this town, although there are four Englishmen here as prisoners. They have been in prison, but are let out now, as I see them walking about sometimes. It is very cold here, with snow on the ground. It is snowing now. People tell me that it will be much colder than this, that the snow will be a yard high, and the people driving about in sledges. I am having a thick coat and skirt made. as I only brought summer things with me. Madam hopes that I shall be able to rejoin them in Switzerland. I hope it will he soon. but alas !I do not think so. I shall be glad to have a little news from you soon. Please put your letter in a blank envelope without name, address or stamp on it, and enclose it in another addressed to the address in Switzerland which you will find enclosed, and Madam will send it on to me ; but do not put anything about war or polities, as all letters arriving here are opened. This Christmas I shall not be able to pay you a visit. Please give my kind regards to all the South Walians." 

Ethel was eventually released, the Windsor and Eton Expressed followed up the report on 30th January 1915:

"LOCAL LADY'S EXPERIENCES AS A PRISONER OF WAR. 

Miss Milbourne, of Oakley Place Farm, near Windsor, who, as we stated some weeks back, was a prisoner of war in Austria, has been released through the good offices of the American Embassy in Austria, who were requested by the Foreign Office to do all they possibly could in the matter. Miss Milbourne is now in Geneva, Switzerland. The following letter has been received at Oakley Place Farm from Miss Milbourne: 

" I arrived in Geneva late last Thursday evening after travelling 2 and a half days and sleeping two nights at hotels en route. As I told you in my last letter, I have been a war prisoner. They would not let me leave Austria because I was English, and they allowed no English people to leave, not even women, because they said England allowed I no Austrian women to leave there. I was quite a prisoner for a little while. A soldier came to see me and read out what I must do. I was not to leave my room before 6 o'clock in the morning, or go out after 8 o'clock at night. I must go to no theatre, or eat in any public place: and if I disobeyed I should at once be put in prison. There were three Englishmen in Marienbad, but shortly after I became acquainted with them they were sent away to prison. Goodness knows when they will be let free. I must say the people in Marienbad were very nice to me; I was the only English girl in the town, although there were many Russian men and women prisoners there, but they did not put them in prison only the English. The Mayor of Marienbad was very nice. I used to go and report myself to him every week, and he said he would do all he could to obtain permission for me to go away, which at last I received. I was very pleased, as it was so dull for me in Marienbad; I was quite alone and knew scarcely anyone. The weather was awfully cold, with much snow, but I bought a warm coat. 1 used to go for long walks every day. I also had two pupils for English, and I went for my German lesson every day to the Convent, so that I was fairly busy. Many wounded soldiers came to Marienbad, which made me realise there really was a war; otherwise it was very quiet there. I also visited three hospitals. I was so pleased to hear you were all quite well. Of course, during that long time I thought something dreadful had happened. I knew you would not get my letters, so did not attempt to write. I tried to telegraph, but the postal authorities said it was impossible to England. I have many souvenirs of the war postcards, maps, etc., and also German papers telling how bad the English are to the German prisoners. Madame's son is still a prisoner in Austria, as, of course, they let no men leave the country. " I am so pleased to be here to be able to read the French and English papers, as the only news I had of England was from the German papers; and it was not always true what they wrote. The American Consul was very kind. He wrote and offered to lend me money for my journey to Switzerland, but as I had money already with me it was not necessary to borrow from him. I should like to come home and see you all, but at present it is impossible; and also I think it is rather dangerous to travel just now."

Edward was to eventually join his wife and elder son at the age of 70 on 30th May 1916.  The Windsor and Eton Express carried the following announcement on 3rd June 1916:

"Deaths

MILBOURNE.—On the 24th ult., at Oakley Place Farm, near Windsor, Edward Milbourne, aged 70 years."

After Edwards passing the Farming stock was sold at auction on 25th October 1916. The Windsor and Eton Expressed carried the following advertisement:

"LIVE AND DEAD PARKING STOCK. BUCKLAND and SONS 

Having let the Farm, have received instructions from the Trustee of the late Mr. E. Milbourne to SELL by AUCTION, on the premises, on WEDNESDAY NEXT, 25th October, 1915, at I o'clock precisely, 

THE WHOLE of the FARMING STOCK comprising:-4 Powerful Working Horses, 18 Dairy Cows and Heifers, 33 Head of Store Cattle, Shorthorn Bull, 30 Berkshire Pigs. The Farm Implements: Ploughs. Harrows. Scarifier, Horse Hoes, 3 Iron Rolls, Corn and Seed Drill, Market Waggons and Dung cart, Milk Float, Pony Carts, Mowing Machine, Hay Tedder, Hay Rake, Elevator by Pratt, Self Binder, Root Pulper, Cake Breaker, Chaff Cutter, Iron Horse Gear, Grindstone, Pig Troughs, Sewage Pump, Corn Bins, Ladders, Hurdles, Harness, and other effects. Four Ricks of Meadow Hay. A quantity of Household Furniture including a MASSIVE CARVED OAK WARDROBE. Catalogues may be obtained on the premises and of the Auctioneers. Windsor. Slough and 4. Bloomsbury-square, London."

Cemetery Sunday - Grave Offerings

During my time photographing cememtery and graves have have come across many 'grave offering' and personal items.  Some are more usual than others, flowers, toys for children and babies and even the occasional windmill.  The other day I came across a mug happily sitting in a little alcove on a gravestone.  I wonder if the mug had special meaning to whoever left it behind.

Below are some examples of the other grave offerings I have come across.



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Mary Ann Seabury and Her Infant Son Maurice Henry Seabury.

Monument to Mary Ann and Maurice Seabury, Bray Parish Cemetery, Holyport, Berkshire.

"In 

loving remembrance 

of 

Mary Ann Seabury 

born March 4th 1858 

died January 6th 1923

Also Maurice Seabury 

born March 16th 1900 

died July 23rd 1904

In The Hand of God."

Mary Ann Seabury was born Mary Ann Coombs on 4th March 1858 in Fifield, Bray Berkshire to Thomas Coombs/Hopkins, a labourer, and his wife Sarah Lovejoy.

Mary Ann first appears on the 1861 Census aged 3, listed as Mary Ann Hopkins, living at her 72-year-old grandfather John Coomb's home in Fifield, Bray, Berkshire, with her parents and siblings. Living with the family is 63-year-old Ann Maria Hopkins, who is listed as a housekeeper.

On the 1881 Census Mary Ann is listed as a housemaid with the Duncombe family of 8 Ashwood Road, Chelsea.  Mary married Joseph Seabury, a coachman and groom in 1887.  Their first son Joseph Neville Seabury was born in 1889, followed eleven years later by Maurice Henry Seabury.

In 1891 Mary Ann, Joseph, and their 2-year-old son Neville at living at 15 Warwick Street, London.

On the 1901 census, three years before Maurice was to pass away, the one-year-old boy can be found living with his parents and elder brother at 88 Ebury Mews in St George Hanover Square, London.  After Murice's death on the 1911 Census, the family can be found living at 205 Pavillion Road, Chelsea London. Mary Ann was to pass away on January 6th 1923 in London.

Joseph Seabury was to live without his wife for a further eighteen years, he passed away in 1941 aged 82.

How did Mary Ann and her son Maurice come to be buried in a small village cemetery not far from her place of birth?  A family plot passed down the generations or did Mary simply want to rest in her 'home'?

The ferns carved into the top of Mary and Maurice's gravestone symbolise sorrow and sincerity.

Buried next to Mary Ann and Maurice is Mary Ann's father Thomas Coombs, who passed away on 18th March 1903.  Thomas was born in Fifield, Berkshire in 1834 to John Coombs a farmer.  Unfortunately, I cannot seem to find any information on Thomas's mother. It is possible that Ann Marie Hopkins was his mother since he switched between the name Hopkins and Coombs throughout his life.

First World War Commonwealth War Grave - Corporal Ronald Victor Smith, Royal Air Force

War Grave of Corporal Ronald Smith.
All Saint's Churchyard, Maidenhead, Berkshire.

 

 

"They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old.

Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.

At the going down of the sun and in the morning

We will remember them".

 

 

Ronald Victor Smith was born in Maidenhead Berkshire in 1893 to Issac Smith, a builder's foreman, and Louisa Morgan.

In 1901 the eight-year-old Ronald is living at 60 All Saint's Avenue, Maidenhead, Berkshire with his parents and his older sisters Elsie May, and Blanche Maude.

On Friday 23rd November 1906 little Ronald broke his arm. The Maidenhead Advertiser reported on Wednesday 28th November 1906:

Broken Arm. - A lad names Ronald Smith, living at All Saint's-avenue, broke one of the bones in his left arm on Friday last. with some other lads, Smith, after school, went to Kidwell's-park, and indulged in a game of football. In a rush, another and heavier lad fell upon Smith and the latter in putting forward his arm to save to fall, doubled the limb under him, with the above result. He was taken to the surgery of Drs. Plumbe and Montgomery, where he received surgical attention." 

In the June of 1907 Ronald's father Isaac passed away.

 

1911, aged 18, Ronald is living with his aunt and uncle, George Henry, and Amelia Knott, along with his brother Sydney Herbert Smith, at 31 Bristow Road, Hounslow, Middlesex.  At that time Ronald's occupation was listed as an electrician. Ronald's widowed mother and two sisters remained at 60 All Saint's Avenue in Maidenhead.

 

Sometime after 1911, Ronald enlisted with the Royal Air Force and was stationed at 5th Aeroplane Repair Depot in Henlow. On the 18th November 1918 Ronald was transferred from Henlow to hospital where Ronald was to pass away from pneumonia on 28th November 1918, just seventeen days after the end of the war. 



Jack Clayton, British Film Director - You Walked Tallest Amongst Men My Love.

Memorial to Jack Clayton, St James the Less Churchyard, Bisham, Berkshire.

"Jack Clayton 1921 - 1995 film director

You walked tallest amongst men my love."

Jack Isaac Clayton was born on 1st March 1921 in Brighton to Beatrice Clayton.

Jack first appears on the 1939 Register living with his retired mother and siblings at Yew Tree Cottage, Eton, Buckinghamshire.

He started his career in film as a child actor in 1929 on the film Dark Red Roses.  Later he worked at Denham Film Studios, working his way up from tea boy to assistant director.

In 1944 while serving with the Royal Airforce during World War II, Jack shot his first film.  A documentary Naples is a Battlefield.  His first feature was the internationally acclaimed Room at the Top in 1959, a harsh indictment of the British class system, which won two Oscars and earned Clayton a Best Director nomination.

Other films directed by Jack Clayton include, The Innocents (1961), The Pumpkin Eater (1964), Our Mother's House (1967), The Great Gatsby (1974), Something Wicked This Way Comes (1983), The Lonely Passion of Judith Hearne (1988).  In 1993 he produced and directed a Film for the BBC, Memento Mori.

Jack married actress Christine Norden (born Mary Lydia Thornton) in 1947, they divorced in 1953, in the same year he married Katherine Kath (born Lily Faess) who he was to divorce also.  Finally, he married actress Haya Haraneet, who he remained married to until his death on 26th February 1995 in Wexham Park Hospital in Slough, Berkshire. The Scotsman reported on Monday 27th February 1995:

"Jack Clayton, film director. - Born: 1921, in Brighton. Died: 25 February, in hospital in Slough, aged 73. 

With only six feature films to his name in a quarter of a century, Jack Clayton was not the most prolific of British film directors. Perhaps this was because his meticulous techniques: and his beady-eyed, almost obsessive involvement with each’ picture could not lend themselves to pot-boilers. “When I am working on a film,” he said, “I do not exist other than on the film; I have no private life. So that when the film is finished, it is really like a kind of life finishing.” 

Jack Clayton began working at London Films in the mid- Thirties. He volunteered for wartime service and gained valuable experience with ‘the RAF Film Unit, where he was cameraman, editor, director and finally officer in command. His film of the liberation of Naples, Naples is a Battlefield, was released by the Ministry of Information.

The film director. Michael Winner said last night: “There is no question England has lost one of its great creative geniuses. Jack-was a very close friend of mine. He was outside the ‘normal director-both as a talent and as a human being. He was an exception. Jack was' the -most gentle, quiet, wonderful man. He was a meticulous craftsman with enormous heart and sensitivity."

Jack Isaac Clayton

Cemetery Sunday - Celtic Cross

Legend tells how St. Patrick, whilst preaching to a group of people he wished to convert to Christianity, was shown a sacred standing stone that was marked with a circle symbol of the moon goddess. Patrick then made the mark of a Latin cross through the circle and blessed the stone making the first Celtic Cross.

To the Christian and Catholic faith the Celtic Cross symbolises the enteral endless love of God as shown through the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross.  But what ever their meaning, I find Celtic Crosses to be some of the most beautiful cemetery art.

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Sextons of Holyport, Frederick Sexton, Mary His Wife, and Annie Elizabeth Their Daughter.

Monument to Frederick, Annie Elizabeth and Mary Sexton, St Michael's Churchyard, Bray, Berkshire.

"In loving memory of Frederick Sexton of Holyport, who died July 1st 1883 in the 40th year of his age. 'Thy will be done'. 

Also Annie Elizabeth Sexton the beloved daughter of the above, who died September 25th 1886 at Caracas South America in the 21st year of her age. 'In the midst of life we are in death.' -  'It is the Lord let him do what seemeth him good.' 

Also of Mary Sexton, wife of the above, who died Aug 17th 1928 in the 88th year of her age.  Her end was peace."

I was immediately drawn to this gravestone because of the surname Sexton.  Sexton has another meaning other than simply a name.  Sexton - an occupation: A person who looks after a church and churchyard, typically acting as bellringer and gravedigger.  Although it turns out the occupants are Sexton's in name only.

Frederick Sexton was born in Bray, Berkshire in 1844 to James Sexton, a carpenter and wheelwright, and his wife Elizabeth Sargent Smith.  Frederick first appears on the 1851 Census, aged 7, living with his parents and younger brother Henry On the 1861 census Frederick can be found as a Private in the 10th (Prince of Wales Own) Royal Hussars at the Cavalry Barracks, Barrack Street, East Wymer, Norfolk.

On 18th November 1865 at St Mark's Church, Islington, Middlesex, Frederick, now a carpenter, married Mary Fenemore. The Reading Mercury held the following announcement on 9th December 1865:

"On the 18th inst., at St. Mark's, Islington, Mr. Frederick Sexton, of Holyport, to Mary, second daughter of J. Fenemore, Esq.. of Bray. No Cards."

Mary Sexton was born Mary Fenemore in Oxfordshire 1841 to James Fenemore, a pound keeper (a person who owned the local pound where stray livestock were kept), and his wife Caroline Eaglestone. Mary first appears on the 1841 Census, aged 1, living with her parents and siblings in Hampton Gay, Oxfordshire. By the 1851 Census the family had moved to Pound House, Windsor Road, Bray, Berkshire. On the 1861 census, Mary is a housemaid in the home of Charlotte Eleanor Seracold on the Holyport Green, Holyport, Berkshire.  

In 1871 Frederick and Mary can be found living with their children Annie Elizabeth, and Frederick Jr, at Hawthorn Hill, Warfield, Berkshire. By 1881 Frederick and Mary had moved to Holyport, a few houses away from Frederick's parents in Holyport. The family had expanded, welcoming Caroline, James, and Ellen Elise. Annie Elizabeth is living with her grandparents James and Elizabeth.

When Frederick passed away in 1883, Mary became a young widow of 45 with six children to support, the youngest only being 2 years old.  Mary remained in Maidenhead until sometime around the 1911 Census when she can be found living in Clacton on Sea with her youngest daughter Ellen and her husband, Leonard Phillips. Mary was to pass away on 17th August 1928. The Maidenhead Advertiser carried the following announcement on 22nd August 1928:

"Deaths

Sexton- On August 17th, 1928, at Upper Richmond-road, Putney, Mary Seston, who peacefully passes away; aged 88 years."

Annie Elizabeth died in Caracas, Venezuela, South America on 25th September 1886.  Unfortunately, I am unable to find out what Annie was doing in South America or why she died.

First World War Commonwealth War Grave - Sapper Jospeh Henry Edwards, Royal Berkshire Regiment - Royal Engineers

War grave of Sapper Joseph H Edwards.
All Saint's Churchyard, Maidenhead, Berkshire

 

"They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old.

Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.

At the going down of the sun and in the morning

We will remember them".

Joseph Henry Edwards was born in Cox Green, Maidenhead Berkshire in 1889 to Thomas Edwards, a gardener, and Sarah Ann Hollins. 

Joseph first appears on the 1891 Census, aged just two years old, living with his family and older siblings at 3 Prospect Place in Maidenhead, Berkshire. By 1901 the family had moved to 2 Boyn Terrace, Maidenhead. However, he was soon to be in trouble with the law. On the 14th November 1901, aged just 12 years old Joseph and some other boys were charged with having stolen apples valued at 3d, from the orchard of Mr. David Wilton. It seems Mr. Wilton's orchard had an inescapable draw for Joseph, who was again charged with stealing from the orchard on 12th October 1901, this time 52 walnuts. During the trail Mr. Thomas Edwards was quoted as saying, "He had 9 children and this was the first time any of them had been brought to a police-court. His boy had been a very good boy up until now and had attended school regularly." Joseph's bad behaviour was to continue.


On Wednesday 6th July 1904 the Maidenhead Advertiser reported: 

"Wilful Damage. - Having been informed that Joseph Edwards on 3 Courthouse Lane, has committed damage to a tree In Boyn Hill Avenue by cutting his initials thereon, the committee have required his attendance before the Council for admonition."

In 1910 Joseph was charged and convicted of being drunk and disorderly and assaulting a police officer.  1911 he was again in the Magistrates Court, charged with drunk and disorderly and assaulting two police officer and one Geroge Rhodes of Cordwalles [sic] Street on New Year's Eve 1910. The Maidenhead Advertiser Reported on Wednesday 4th January 1911,

"A Scene on New Year's Eve

Police Officers Brutally Assaulted.

Assailants Sent to Gaol.

Jospeh Henry Edwards of Courthouse Lane was charged with having been drunk and disorderly, and also with having assaulted Geo. Rhodes, of 1, Cordwalles-street on Dec 31. He pleaded guilty to the first offence but denied the second.

P. S. (Police Sergeant) Miles stated that at about 11.5 on the evening of Saturday, dec 31, he was on duty at the junction of Marlow-road, King-street, and High-street, when he saw the prisoner, who was drunk, go up to Rhodes and hit him on the face, knocking him down. Witness went up to the prisoner and requested him to go home, but he refused to do so. Witness therefore too him into custody."

Unfortunately for P.S. Mills, Joseph was not about to go quietly.

"He was further charged with having assaulted P. S. Miles on the same evening while the sergeant was in the execution of his duty. He again pleaded "not guilty".

P.S. Miles said that he saw the prisoner on the night in question behaving in a disorderly manner and proceeded to take him into custody. When near the Rose Hotel, King-street he saw P.C. Tubb, whom he called upon for assistance. On the wat to the police station through Moffatt-street, prisoner's brother, a sailor, came rushing down the street and struck P.C, Tubb, In the scuffle which ensued, prisoner broke away from the witness, whom he struck twice in the chest."

Witnesses to the assault testified that after Joseph broke free from P.S. Miles, he then assisted his brother in attacking P.C. Tubb. One witness described Jospeh and his brother as, "kicking and hitting out in all directions." P.S. Miles commenting on the attack of P.C. Tubb described Joseph's actions as that of a madman.

The magistrates found the prisoner guilty of the assault on the police-sergeant, and a further charge was then preferred against him of having assaulted P.C. Tubb, at the same time and place, while he was in the execution of his duty. 

Thomas Edwards, brother of the prisoner and a sailor on the H.M.S Excellent, now appeared int he dock, and pleaded guilty to being drunk and disorderly and having assaulted P.C. Tubb."

Thoams was sentenced to 21 days hard labour for being drunk and disorderly, 1 month for the assault on P.C. Tubb, and 1 month for the assault on P.S. Miles, a total of 2 months and 21 days imprisonment. Joseph was sentenced to 21 days hard labour for being drunk and disorderly, 2 months for the assault on Goerge Rhoads, 1 month for the assault on P.C. Tubb, and 1 month for the assault on P.S. Miles, a total of four months and 21 days imprisonment.  Upon being taken from the court Joseph was heard to quip, "Can't you make it up to six months?"

Jospeh can be found on the 1911 census serving his time in Reading Gaol.

Seems Joseph did not learn his lesson, in 1912 he was again charged with being drunk and disorderly.  The Chronicle reported,

"Too Many Drinks

At Maidenhead Police Court on Wednesday, before Mr. T G Wyatt and Mr. C A Vardy, a baker named Joseph Henry Edwards, of Courthouse Lane, [now Courthouse Road] was charged with being drunk in incapable in Boyne Hill Avenue, Maidenhead, in the early hours of that morning.  He was found by P.C. Gunter at 1.15 lying in the road, helplessly drunk.  The constable picked him up and brought him to the police station.

Prisoner told the Bench that he supposed he must have had one or two drinks too many.  There was a previous conviction against him in 1910 for being drunk and disorderly and assaulting the police.  A find of 2s 6d and costs or 7 days hard labour was imposed. Defendant said he had no money and was removed in custody."

 

On 31st August 1914 Joseph signed up to serve in the Royal Berkshire Regiment.  Unfortunately, Joseph's questionable behaviour continues throughout his service with the Royal Berks.  On 20th July 1915 Joseph was sentenced to, '14 days detainment for breaking out of the billet' (soldiers sleeping quarters).  Then on 15th November 1915 Joseph was found to be, 'Absent from the Corps Parade when proceeding to the trenches'.  Joseph was Court Martialled on 3rd December 1915 and given a 9 month suspended sentence, to be reviewed on 28th May 1916.

Joseph returned to active duty, however from the 25th August - 14th September 1916 he spent time at Bellahouston Military Hospital in Glasgow Scotland with Valvular Disease of the Heart.  Joseph was then discharged from the army as no longer being physically fit for service on 27th October 1916, he was awarded a pension of 10s.

It wasn't long before Joseph was serving his country again.  Three months after being discharged due to heart disease, Joseph re-enlisted on 3rd January 1917 with the Royal Engineers in Reading Berkshire.  Later that month on 16th Joseph married Lydia Kate Palmer.  Joseph's war service records indicate that on 27th August 1917 he was again sentenced to 56 days, which was later mitigated to 28 days, unfortunately the records are unclear as to why.  However, Joseph was again discharged due to no longer being physically fit for war service on 28th August 1918. He was awarded a pension of 11s for 13 weeks.

Joseph died on 10th February 1921, he left behind his widow Lydia and their three children, Kathleen Ellen, Frederick John, and Joan Cecily.  Joan was born after her father's death on 21st April 1921.

Vivian Charlotte Lewis - Died in Her Racing Car at the 28th Brighton Speed Trial.

Monument to Vivian Charlotte Lewis, All Saints Churchyard, Bisham Berkshire.

"In Loving Memory of Vivian Charlotte wife of David Lewis Born 22 April 1923 - Died in her racing car at Brighton Speed Trials 14th September 1963"

 

Vivian Charlotte Lewis was born Vivian Charlotte Hordern on 22nd April 1923 to Charles Hordern, and his wife Cecil Pearl Beeching.  Search on her life has proved difficult as the spelling of her first name constantly changed throughout official records.  All that is known of Vivian's life is that she married David Lewis in 1952 in Westminster, London.


Sadly, due to the manner of her passing, a lot is known about her death. The Sydney Morning Herald reported on 15th September 1963:

"London, Saturday holiday markers saw a woman racing driver killed when her car somersaulted and burst into flames at Brighton today. The car hit a kerb, exploded and crashed into a children's playground on the promenade. The driver Mrs Vivenne [sic] Lewis, 35 [sic] of Cookham Dean, Berkshire, was competing in the Brighton speed trials when her Jaguar hit the kerb and went out of control.

Damaged.

Flames shot 20ft into the air as it exploded. Two timing marshals narrowly escaped as parts of the wreckage landed a few yards from their desk. Some of the timing equipment was damaged.
Racing was stopped for 40 minutes after the crash - the first fatality in the 58 year history of the trials.
Mrs Lewis was married but had no children" 

An inquest was opened into the accident. The Daily Herald reported on 20th September 1963:

"Metal fatigue in death car.

Experts told a Brighton inquest yesterday that metal fatigue fractured the front suspension of the Jaguar sports car in which competitions driver Mrs. Vivian Lewis was killed last Saturday. A verdict of accidental death was recorded on Mrs. Lewis. aged 40. of Cookham Dean. Berks. who died when the car crash into a children's playground ed during the Brighton speed trials." 

On that day Vivian was racing a 1958 Tojeiro sportscar that was fitted with a Jaguar engine.  The actual car that was involved in the accident was sold, restored and resold at auction.

Vivian's car restored