First World War Private Monument - First Casualty Buried in Maidenhead - Private Frederick James Stevens - Died of Wounds, and his brother Acting Lance Sergeant Charles Stevens - Shot by a Sniper - Both 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".

 

 

Frederick James, and Charles Stevens were born in Maidenhead, Berkshire on 29th September 1895 and 13th October 1892, to Charles W Stevens, a labourer in a sewage works and later Cooper's Brick Kilns, Pinkney's Green, and his wife Elizabeth Susan Cole.

 

In 1901 Frederick aged 5 and Charles aged 7 are living with their parents and sister Lily at No 5 Dolman's Buildings, King Street in Maidenhead Berkshire.

 

1911 and Frederick, now 15 and a caddy at a local golf course, is still living with his parents at No 5 Dolman's Buildings.  Charles, now a private in The Royal Berkshire Regiment can be found at Fort Burgoyne, The Red Huts, Military Quarters at Castle Hill in Dover.

 

Sometime afterwards Frederick joined his brother in 1st Battalion of The Royal Berkshire Regiment.

It seems that their father didn't take to their joining the war effort too well.  On 3rd October 1914, The Slough, Eton and Windsor Observer reported -

"Maidenhead.  Attempted Suicide

Worried about His Son At The Front.

Lying face downwards with a razor in his right hand and three gashes in his neck, a man named Charles Stevens was discovered in a semi-conscious condition on the common at Pinkney's Green.  For reasons which at present are unknown he had attempt to take his life, but the wounds were not sufficiently severe to serve his purpose, and he is now at the Maidenhead Cottage Hospital making rapid progress towards recovery.  When he is in a fit condition he will be brought before the magistrates to answer for his foolish action.   The man is 44 years of age and is in lodgings at Pinkney's Green.  He is employed at Cooper's Brick Kiln.  It is thought that among other things he has been worrying about his son at the front."

 

Unfortunately I have been unable to locate any military records for either Frederick or Charles.

Frederick was wounded in battle and sent to The General Hospital in Nottingham.  From his hospital ward Frederick penned a letter home.  The Reading Mercury reported on 9th January 1915 -

"Maidenhead Man Wounded - The following is an extract from a letter sent by Private F. Stevens of the 1st Battalion Royal Berkshire Regiment (son of Mr. C. Stevens, 5, Dolman's-buildings, Maidenhead) who was badly wounded at the front,  and is now in the General Hospital at Nottingham: 'My upper jaw has been broken and my left eye is useless.  I have been in this hospital since November 22, and I am progressing as well as can be expected.  The hospital authorities cared for us very well this Christmas and I enjoyed myself very well under the circumstances.  The people of Nottingham are very good indeed to all the wounded here.'

 

Sadly, Private Frederick was to die as a result of his wounds on January 12th 1915, aged just 21 years.

The Nottingham Journal later reported on Friday 15th January 1915:

"The relatives of Private Frederick James Stevens, of the Royal Berkshire Regiment, who died in Nottingham General Hospital on Tuesday from wounds received at the front have arranged for his body to be conveyed to Maidenhead for burial. This will be done to-day. Stevens was only 21 years of age, his home being Dalman's Buildings, King-street, Maidenhead. He was shot through the right [sic] eye, and had been in Nottingham since November 22nd."

On 20th January 1915 the Maidenhead Advertiser reported on Frederick's funeral at All Saints' Church, Boyn Hill, Maidenhead:

"Mortally Wounded.

Military Funeral For Brave Berkshire Lad.

First War Victim Brought to Maidenhead for Burial

With their rifles pointed towards the setting sun, which transformed the western sky into a blaze of light, fourteen Royal Berkshires fired three volleys over the grave of a comrade laid to rest in All saints' churchyard on Monday afternoon last, thereby according him the last honours associated with a military funeral.

The brave young fellow, who was mortally wounded when fighting for King and Country in the great war, was Private Fred Stevens, of 1st Batt. Royal Berks. Regt., now fighting in the trenches. He was badly wounded a short time ago and was brought to England and taken to the General Hospital at Nottingham. Writing from this institution to his parents, who reside at 5, Dolman's buildings, High Town-road, Maidenhead, the soldier said:- 'My upper jaw has been broken and my left eye is useless.  I have been in this hospital since November 22, and I am progressing as well as can be expected.  The hospital authorities cared for us very well this Christmas and I enjoyed myself very well under the circumstances.  The people of Nottingham are very good indeed to all the wounded here, and I am well-cared for by the hospital staff.'  The latter statement is true, as the hospital staff did all they possibly could for the lad and his recovery seemed but a question of time, though permanent disablement seemed probable. Fortunately, however, Private Stevens passed away suddenly, a telegraph to this effect being received from the Sister at the General Hospital at Nottingham on Tuesday last. Needless to add, the sad news caused his parents much grief. We may here state that the deceased's brother is still at the Front with the 2nd Royal Berks and has also been in the thick of the fighting.

The body was brought to Maidenhead for burial and the funeral took place on Monday afternoon, with military honours. The funeral procession was formed in  High Town-road, and its departure for Boyne Hill was witnessed by many hundreds of persons, this being the first funeral in Maidenhead of a victim of the present war. A bearer party was supplied by the 4th (Reserve( Batt. Royal Berks Regiment, stationed at Maidenhead, who also supplied the firing party, while about eighty of the rank and file attended to pay a last mark of respect for the deceased soldier.

The military party was under the command of Second-Lieut. R. C. V. Freeth, and Sergt.-Major Butler was also in attendance. The coffin was covered in the Union Jack, on which rested the deceased's cap and side-arms. There were many wreaths, including a handsome one in a large glass case sent from sympathising friends at Nottingham. As the body was brought from the house the firing party presented arms, and they made their way to the head of the procession. the main body of the Berkshires falling in behind the carriages after the latter and the funeral car had passed between the military lines. A great crowd accompanied the procession along King-street, up Castle-hill and along All Saints'-avenue to the church. Here there were assembled some hundreds of persons, a large number of whom entered the church. The coffin was removed from the car to the hand-bier and was met at the entrance of the church by the Rev. D. S. Chapman and Rev. E. Y. Dawson (curates), who officiated at the church and at the graveside. The service was very impressive. 

At the close of the service at the graveside, the firing party fired three volleys, and then the bugler sounded the "Last Post." After the mourners had taken a last look at the coffin, the soldiers passed round the grave, saluted their deceased comrade and then marched back to their headquarters."

 

Charles rose to the rank of Acting Lance Sergeant before he was killed at the battle of Bourlon Wood as a result of enemy action on 29th November 1917, aged just 25 years.  Charles is buried in the Moeuvers Communal Cemetery in France.  On 19th December 1917 the Maidenhead Advertiser reported:

"Acting Lance-Sergt. Charles Stevens, of the Royal Berks Regiment, eldest son of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Stevens, of 5, Dolman's Buildings, King-street [sic], Maidenhead, was killed in action on November 29th. He had distinguish himself for bravery in the field in the earlier part of the war and was the possessor both of the Distinguished Conduct Medal and the Military Medal. Lieut. E. C. de Vitre, writing to Mrs. Stevens says: By now you have doubtless heard the sad news of the death, in action, of your son, and I thought that you might care to hear from one who was with him when he was killed. Writing as his Platoon Officer, I can say without hesitation that he was by far the best N.C.O. in the platoon, and, more than that, I and all the men liked and trusted him completely. It will be quite impossible to ever find another as he was. The men would follow anywhere, and his coolness and bravery under fire were exceptional. He was killed by a sniper as he led his men to his objective and had begun to dig in. His death was instantaneous and entirely without pain, and the bullet went through his brain, it is impossible that he could have felt anything. We brought his body in that night and buried him beside two other men of his section who met their end at almost the same time as he did. He was buried by our Regimental parson and a wooden cross makes his grave. I hope I have not caused you any pain by what I have written, but I should like you to know how I and all the men miss him and sympathise with you in your great loss." 

Charles Stevens War Grave
Moeuvres Communal Cemetery

Charles Stevens Sr passed away on 15th November 1924 after collapsing in Maidenhead High Street.  On 19th November 1924 the Maidenhead Advertiser reported:

"Death In The Street.

On Saturday evening an elderly man named Charles Stevens, of Dolman's Buildings, King-street, was taken ill in the High-street, and before medical aid could arrive death had taken place, and the body was removed on the borough ambulance. The man's doctor was able to give a certificate, having attended Stevens for heart-disease, so that no inquest was necessary. Stevens had been for many years a Corporation employee." 

How heartbreaking for Elizabeth to lose two sons to war and then her husband not long afterwards. The widowed Elizabeth can be found on the 1939 Register living at 3 Hope Cottages, King Street, Maidenhead. Elizabeth finally joined her husband and sons in 1949 when she passed away aged 82.

 

 



Ruth Hawker, and Mary Ann Hawker, wives of John Hawker, Baker of King Street Maidenhead, and his son Albert Hawker

 

 

Monument to Ruth Hawker, Albert Hawker and Mary Ann Hawker, All Saint's Maidenhead Cemetery, Maidenhead, Berkshire, England.

 

 

"In Loving Memory of 

Ruth Hawker wife of John Hawker 

Died Nov 4th 1865 aged 47 

- Interred in Wesleyan Churchyard -

 

Albert Hawker fourth son of 

Ruth and John Hawker 

Died July 8th 1892 aged 42.

 

Mary Ann Hawker second wife of 

John Hawker 

Died May 26th 1896 aged 83"

 

 

Ruth Hawker was born Ruth Hester in Ascot, Berkshire in 1818 to Giles Hester, a wheelwright, and his wife Susannah Redrup.  In 1838 Ruth married John Hawker, a baker from Boyn Hill, Maidenhead.  In 1839 they celebrated the birth of their first child, a son, John Giles Hawker.

 

In 1841 the young family can be found living in Boyn Hill Maidenhead.  However by the 1851 Census Ruth and family had moved to Maidenhead High Street.  The family had since welcomed the births of Fanny, Mary Ann, William, and baby Albert.  Living with the family at the time was 17 year old George Smith, a baker's apprentice.

 

In 1861 the family were still living in Maidenhead High Street, young John Giles, Albert, and Frederick had joined the family bakery business and Fanny contributed to the household as a milliner (hat maker).  William has since become an apprentice draper in the household of Julius Neve.  Young Louisa, Frederick, and baby Robert had joined the family. 

 

Sadly in 1862 Fanny passes away.

 

In 1863 Ebenezer, the last child of John and Ruth Hawker was born.  Sadly two after her youngest son's birth, Ruth passed away on 4th November 1862.  

 

In 1869 John married his second wife, Mary Ann Brant, a dressmaker, in Eton, Berkshire.

 

Mary Ann Brant was born in Cookham Berkshire in 1812 to Thomas Brant and his wife Mary Maria Duckett.

Mary Ann first appears on the 1841 Census, aged 25, living with her widowed mother Mary Maria, and her younger brother Thomas Brant, in Market Street, Maidenhead. Mary, her mother, and brother Thomas were still living and working in Market Street in 1851.

1861 finds Mary living on her own in Park Street, Maidenhead, Berkshire.

 

By 1871 John and his second wife Mary had moved to King Street along with Albert, Louisa, Frederick, and Ebenezer.

 

1881 the family has moved again to 3 Lansdowne Villas, Norfolk Road, Maidenhead.  John is now listed as a retired baker, young Ebenezer is now an architect.  Living with John and Mary Ann is Louisa, her husband Henry and their two young children. 

  

Albert, now 29 years old, is a pauper patient at Berks County Moulsford Lunatic Asylum, listed as a lunatic, where he remained until his death on 8th June 1892

 

John and Mary Ann had moved again by 1891, into Holly Cottage on Norfolk Road. 

 

Mary Ann passed away on 26th May 1896. On the 27th May 1896 the Maidenhead Advertiser reported:

"DEATH OF AN OLD RESIDENT.

—The death has occurred, at the ripe age of 83, of Mrs. Mary Ann Hawker, wife of Mr. J. Hawker, who formerly carried on business as a baker and confectioner in King-street, but some years since retired and now resides in Norfolk park. Mrs. Hawker was well-known, having lived in Maidenhead for very many years. The funeral will take place at the Cemetery tomorrow (Thursday)."

John was to pass away three years later on 3rd December 1899. On 13th December 1899 the Maidenhead Advertiser reported:

"DEATH AND FUNERAL OF AN OLD TOWNSMAN. 

On Thursday last the funeral took place, at the Cemetery, of Mr. John Hawker, of St. Luke's-road Maidenhead, whose death ( on the 3rd inst.) we announced in our obituary column last week. The deceased gentleman was of independent means, having retired from business upwards of 21 years ago. He was in his usual good health up to within a few days of his death, and was to be seen in the streets on his tricycle, but he became ill somewhat suddenly and succumbed practically to senile decay, having attained the patriarchal age of 83 years. 

He was widely known and universally respected. The deceased gentleman had been closely associated with the trade of Maidenhead for well-nigh 60 years, for though be himself retired from active business life a couple of decades ago, he was succeeded by his son, Mr. Fredk. Hawker, as baker, &c., in King-street, who so developed the business that he now occupies one of the finest blocks of shops in the town, known as " Hawker's Market." Mr. John Hawker commenced business as a baker at Boyn Hill. He subsequently took a shop in High-street, where Mr. A. C. Rippon's tobacconist's shop now stands, and where his son Fredk. was born. When Queen-street developed into a business thoroughfare Mr. Hawker's establishment was pulled down, and the business was removed to King-street, where the "Royal Dairy" now is. The late Mr. Hawker owned a good deal of property in Maidenhead. The deceased leaves four sons, viz., Mr. John Hawker, a missionary in India; Mr. Fredk. Hawker. Mr. Wm. Hawker, and the Rev. Ebenezer Hawker. The funeral took pace on Thursday afternoon last, at the cemetery, the Rev. T. F. Lewis officiated."

 

 

  

Cemetery Sunday - Cobweb Angel

 

Spider webs on angel monument at All Saint's Maidenhead Cemetery, Maidenhead, Berkshire, England.

 

 

 

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Second World War Private Monument - Pilot Officer Gerard Hamilton Maffett, Royal Air Force

 

"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".

 

Gerard Hamilton Maffett was born 11th June 1916 in Murree, India to Lieutenant-Colonel Reginald Ernest Maffett and his wife Gwendoline Mary de Rutzen.

Gerard first appears on the 1921 Census, aged 5, living with his father and siblings at York Road, Bognor Suessex. His mother Gwendoline was away from the home at the time of the Census.

Gerard was educated at Imperial Service College in Windsor, Berkshire.  In 1934 he finished his education and took a job with the Daily Mail in London.  Four years later Gerard enlisted with the Royal air Force Volunteer Reserve (RAFVR) as a U/T Pilot.  He started out flying Tiger Moths from White Waltham airfield near Maidenhead, Berkshire.  

On the 1939 Register Gerard can be found living with his parents at Wellington Lodge, Ray Park Road, Maidenhead Berkshire

On 22nd June 1940 Gerard converted from Tiger Moths to Hurricane aircraft and joined 257 Squadron at Northolt on 7th July 1940.

Gerard Hamilton Maffett

Gerard flew on his first operation on 18th August 1940 where he is credited for destroying a Dornier Do17 aircraft and damaging a Heinkel He111.

On 31st August 1940, nine Hurricanes took off from Martlesham Heath at 8:25am ordered to patrol Debden at 15,000 feet.  The Squadron climbed towards Debden, but encountered two large formations of Junkers Ju88 aircraft at 14,000 feet with several formations of Messerschmitt Bf110s at 16,000 feet.  Unable to catch up with the Junkers Ju88s the squadron pursued the Messerschmitt formations.  At least six Messerschmitt Bf110s were destroyed, however the squadron suffered the loss of two Hurricanes.  One of those was Gerard's P3175, which crashed into the foreshore at Stone Point, Walton-on-the-Naxe, Essex at around 8:50am.  Gerard was able to bail out of his stricken aircraft but his parachute failed to open due to the low altitude.  Gerard was killed on impact.

Gerard's elder brother John Francis Maffett, Wing commander with the R.A.F was also killed in action on 12th February 1942.  He is commemorated on the Runnymede Memorial, Egham, Surrey.

Reginald Ernest Maffett passed away on 12th August 1950 and Gwendoline Mary on 2nd October 1975 aged 100 years.

Between 1972 and 1973 the remains of Gerard's crashed Hurricane, including the instrument panel and windscreen, together with an almost complete engine and the remains of the three wooden propeller blades were recovered.  *They're now displayed in The Battle of Britain Museum in Hendon, London.

*No longer on display.

Charles Quibell Rogers, Pork Pie Maker from Melton Mowbray - Rests Alone at All Saints' Maidenhead Cemetery

 

 

 

Monument to Charles Quibell Rogers, All Saints Maidenhead Cemetery, Maidenhead, Berkshire, England.

 

"In 

Memory

Of 

Charles Q. Rogers 

Died March 9th 1950 

Aged 73"

 

Charles Quibell Rogers was born in 1876 in Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire, to Charles Rogers, a pork pie maker, and his wife Mary Quibell, a provisions dealer.

 

Charles first appears on the 1881 Census, aged five years, living with his parents, elder sisters Elizabeth, and Sarah, twin sister Emma Rachel, and younger sister Edith, in Sage Cross Street in Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire.

 

In 1891, fifteen year old Charles, now a pie maker, is boarding in the home of Arthur Barrett, a confectioner and baker at 109 Charmwood Street, St Margaret's, Leicestershire.  Charles's twin sister Emma is working as a general domestic servant in the home of Charlotte Rose at 65 Princess Street, Leicester, Leicestershire.

 

In 1898, Charles married Emma Holmes, the widow of Frederick Holmes, in Shardlow, Derbyshire, taking on Emma's two children from her previous marriage, Frank, and Florence Holmes.

 

A year later in 1899, Charles's twin sister Emma Rachel married John Wayness Cheyne, a plumber and gas fitter, in Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire.

 

Charles's new family can be found on the 1901 Census, living at 12 Oakleys Road, Long Eaton, Derbyshire, where Charles's occupation is now listed as a bread maker.

 

Emma Rachel and her husband John Wayness can be found living at 68 Granstead Road,  Colchester, Essex.

 

By 1911 Charles and his family had moved to 57 Oakleys Road in Long Eaton, Derbyshire.  Charles is now working as a confectioner for the Co-operative.  Frank, and Florence are working in the lace making and mending industry. 

On 7th May 1912 Charles' sister Emma and her husband had emigrated to Australia. 

 

Charles Quibell Rogers was to pass away on 9th March 1950 in Maidenhead, Berkshire.  His twin sister Emma Rachel Cheyne died aged eighty five years old in Chelmsford, Essex on 28th July 1961.

 

I wonder what brought Charles to Maidenhead and why he lies alone in All Saints Maidenhead Cemetery.

 

 

 

 

 

Cemetery Sunday Blog Hop - All Saints Maidenhead Cemetery

 

All Saints Maidenhead Cemetery, Maidenhead, Berkshire, England.

 

 

 

 

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Robert Smith, Hair Dresser of Marlow, Buckinghamshire, and his wife Ledger Julia Smith

Monument to Roger Smith and Ledger Julia Smith, St Peter's Churchyard, Marlow, Buckinghamshire, England.

"In Memoriam.  

Of your charity, 

pray for the souls of 

Robert Smith 

who died March 23 1884 

aged 79 years 

and of his wife 

Ledger Julia 

who died June 2 1888 

aged 84 years.  

The oldest members of this congregation.  

The first received into the Church after the establishment of the Mission in 1845. 

- Jesu, Mary, Joseph Mercy - R. I. P."

Robert Smith, a hair dresser, was born in Portsea, Hampshire in 1806 to Robert Smith and his wife Margaret.  Robert was Christened on 9th July 1806 at St Mary's church in Portsea.

On 6th October 1823 in the same church, Robert married Ledger Julia Hayes.

Ledger Julia Hayes was also born in Portsea, Hampshire around 1804 to Lawrence Hayes and his wife Elizabeth Bungay.

The couple celebrated the birth of their first child, a son Robert Hayes, in 1826, followed by a daughter Julia Ledger in 1828.  A second son, Henry Seymour Hayes was born in 1831, followed by a third son, Rueben Nereus in 1833.  Stephen was born in 1836 ,and Lawrence John followed in 1838.  Finally just before the 1941 Census, baby Rosa was born.

Robert and Ledger appear on the 1841 Census living in Spittal Street in Marlow, Buckinghamshire.  Sadly just two years after the Census was taken, little Rosa Smith passed away.  But joy came to the family again in 1844 when little Georgina was born. Sadly in 1848 Henry Seymour was to pass away in Southwark, London

By 1851, Robert and Ledger, along with their younger children Stephen, and Georgina, had moved to Exmouth Street in Finsbury, London.  Robert Hayes Smith ,and his younger brother Lawrence John, both hair dressers had remained at Spittal Street in Marlow, Buckinghamshire.  Reuben, a shop boy is lodging in the home of Thomas Daniel in Cass Street, St George in the East, Stepney, London. I have been unable to locate Julia Ledger post 1841

By 1861, Robert, Ledger and their youngest daughter, Georgina had moved to St Peter's Street in Finsbury, London.  Stephen had left the family home and married his wife, Jane Savel in Bethnal Green in 1857.  They celebrated the birth of their daughter, Georgina in 1861.  On the Census they can be found running the Lord Raglen Arms in Tranmere, Cheshire.

By 1871 Robert and Ledger had moved to 10 Stanhope Street, St Pancras, London, where Robert now aged 65 is still working as a hair dresser.  Georgina has left the family to work as a school mistress at 16 Whitehall Street, Birmingham.

In 1881, now both in their mid seventies and retired, Robert and Ledger have returned to Marlow, living in Cambridge Place.  Sadly just three years after the Census was taken, in 1884, Robert passed away.  On 29th March 1884 the Bucks Herald carried the following announcement:

"Deaths-

Smith- At Great Marlow, on the 23rd inst., Mr. Robert Smith, in the 79th year of his age."

His wife Ledger Julia followed him to the grave just four years later in 1888.

Blog Hop - Cemetery Sunday - Resting

 

'Resting', All saints Maidenhead Cemetery, Maidenhead, Berkshire, England.

 

 

 

 



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First World War Commonwealth War Grave - Driver William John Thomas Hall, 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".

William John Thomas Hall was born in 1873 in Kilburn, London, to William Thomas Hall, a fly proprietor, and his wife Ruth Shepard

A fly proprietor or flyman was a man who drove a one horse, light two wheeled carriage (a Fly).  Much like today's mini cabs.  Being a Fly Proprietor, William would have owned several Flys and employed people to drive them.

William first appears on the 1881 Census, aged 7, living with his parents and younger siblings at 28 Red Lion Yard, Watford, Hertfordshire, at that time his father's occupation is listed as a hatter.

By the 1891 Census, William snr has changed his occupations to fly proprietor and his son William has joined in the family business, which is now in Hastings, Sussex.

In 1896 William married Annie Elizabeth Saunders in Hastings Sussex. In 1897 they celebrated the birth of their first child, a daughter, Elise.  In 1900 twins Ivy and Dorothy were born.

In 1901 the young family can be found living at 134 London Road, Hastings, Sussex.  Living at 132 is William's parents and younger siblings and at 138 is William's brother Henry and his young family.  All are working the in the coaching industry.

In 1905 William and his wife Annie celebrated the birth of another daughter, Winifred.

By 1911 the family has moved to 31 Tower Road, St Leonards by the Sea, Hastings, Sussex

William served as a Driver for the Royal Engineers until his death on 11th November 1917, a year before the war was to end.



Richard John Smith, infant son of Humphrey Hugh Smith, R.N., and Mary Ranger, daughter of Alfred Ranger - Together in Sweet Slumber

Monuments to Richard John Smith and Mary Ranger, St Peter's Churchyard, Marlow, Buckinghamshire, England.


"Richard John son of Humphrey Hugh Smith R.N.  Born 1st August died 20th 1897."


Little Richard John Smith was the first child born to Humphrey Hugh Smith, a Vice Admiral in the Royal Navy and author of A Yellow Admiral Remembers and An Admiral never forgets, and his wife Blanche Scott Murrey on 1st August 1897 in Kensington, London.  Vice Admiral Humphrey and Blanche went on to have two surviving children from their marriage.

On 26 August the following announcement speared in the Freeman Journal:

"Deaths-

Smith - August 20th, 1897, at Prince's gate, London, Richard John, infant son of Humphrey Hugh Smith R.N."

Vice Admiral Humphrey remarried after his first wife's death to Jean Ellis Hugh Mackintosh.  He served in the Royal Navy throughout World War One and sadly died on 26th September 1940 when the merchant steam vessel he was aboard, the S.S. Manchester Brigade, was sunk by U-Boat U-137 just off the coast of Malin Head, Ireland.  Of the 60 aboard, only 4 survived the sinking.

 

***

"In Loving Memory of Mary Ranger of Woodburn who departed this life on the 24th day of Sepr 1887 aged 14 years."


Mary Ranger was the third child born to Alfred Ranger, an engine fitter, and his wife Martha, in 1876 in Stantonbury, Buckinghamshire.

Mary first appears on the 1881 Census, aged seven years, living with her parents and siblings at 46 Buckingham Street, Wolverton Station, Buckinghamshire.  Sadly young Mary was to pass away six years later aged just fourteen.

Little Richard and young Mary now lie side by side in a small but pretty churchyard in the village of Marlow.

Cemetery Sunday - St Peter's Church, Marlow, Buckinghamshire

Spooky Carved Stone Face, St Peter's Church, Marlow, Buckinghamshire, England.

 

 

 

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Edwin Rogers proprietor of the Maidenhead Steam Laundry, Furze Platt, and his wife Elizabeth Rogers

 

 

Memorial to Edwin Rogers, St Luke's Churchyard, Maidenhead, Berkshire, England.

 

 

"In Loving Memory of 

Edwin Rogers.  

Born December 18 1834.  D

ied April 16 1890.  

A faithful servant of Jesus Christ and His Church.  

And for many years a ringer in the belfry of All Saints, Boyn Hill.  

This stone was erected by his family and friends.  

Be Ye Also Ready.

 

Also Elizabeth Rogers. Born September 29 1835.  Died January 19 1921."

 

 

Edwin Rogers was born on 18th December 1834 in Hughenden, Buckinghamshire to Edward Rogers, a farmer, and his wife Elizabeth Hall.

 

On the 1841 Census 7 year old Edwin is living at Holmer's Farm in Great Marlow, Buckinghamshire with his parents and siblings, Sophia, Eliza, Elizabeth, and Hezekiah.  Sadly that same year Edwin's father, Edward, was to pass away.

 

By the 1851 Census, Edwin was an apprenticed blacksmith to Thomas Fox in Nettlebed, Oxfordshire.

 

In 1857 Edwin married Elizabeth Exlar in Henley.  In 1859 they celebrated the birth of their first child, a son, Edward.  In 1860 another son was born, Hezekiah.

 

Elizabeth (Bessy) Exler was born in Nettlebed, Oxfordshire in 1835 to Thomas Exler, a labourer, and his wife Ann Blackall.

 

In 1841 3 year old Elizabeth was living in Nettlebed Common with her parents and siblings, Thomas, William, Moses, and Richard.

 

1851 13 year old Elizabeth, listed as Bessy is still living with her parents and siblings in Nettlebed Common, Oxfordshire.



1861 finds the not long married Edwin and Elizabeth Rogers living in Chaddleworth, Berkshire where Edwin is listed as being a blacksmith and ironmonger employing one man and one boy.  Apprenticed to Edwin at the time was 15 year old George Barney.

 

By 1871, Edwin and Elizabeth had moved their family, which had since expanded to include, Eliza born in 1862, Ann born in 1865, Sophia born in 1867, and Martha born in 1870, to live in the High Street in Maidenhead, Berkshire.  Edwin worked as an iron monger, employing five men.

 

In 1881 the Rogers family was living and working at 94 High Street, Maidenhead, Berkshire where Edwin is listed as being a Master iron founder.  By now the family had expanded to include, Elizabeth born in 1872, Rose born in 1876, Frederick born in 1878 ,and baby Edith born in 1880.

 

Sadly in 1883, Eliza Rogers passed away aged just twenty two.

 

Unfortunately in 1884 at the age of five, poor little Edith was assaulted by a fifteen year old bot by the name of Thomas Saunders, whilst she and her older brother Frederick were playing in Boyn Hill fields.  On 24th September the Maidenhead Advertiser reported:

"Serious Charge-

Thomas Saunders, a lad of 15, residing in Ray-street, was charged with having, on the 13th inst., criminally assaulted a little girl named Edith Rodgers, aged 5 years. The 'Bench hesitated at first to accept the complainant's evidence, on the ground that she she not understand the nature of an oath. The subsequent test was, however, held to be efficient. The Acting Magistrates' Clerk (Mr. R. A. Ward) asked the child if she knew it was naughty to tell stories. She replied in the affirmative, and the oath having been explained and administered, she went on to state that on Saturday morning she was playing with her brother in Boyn Hill fields, and saw the prisoner there. 

She described in detail the nature of the assault, and added that Saunders promised her twopence, but ran away without giving it to her. Frederick Rogers, brother of the child, said he saw Saunders push his sister down on the grass, and he corroborated her account of the assault, and stated that he went home with his sister and told their mother what had happened.

The mother gave evidence as to what she was told, and the result of her examination of the child. She sent for Superintendent Taylor on Monday and told him what had occurred. Saunders came to her, she said, on the previous (Tuesday) night and admitted the offence, and said he was sorry, and asked for her forgiveness.

Supt. Taylor said Yesterday morning Mrs. Rogers made a statement to me and gave me a description of a lad. I found that the prisoner was in the neighbourhood of Boyn Hill shortly before one o'clock on Saturday. I sent for Saunders to the station, and placed him with four other lads about his own size and age. The two children at the time were in my office, and the door was closed. I first called out the little girl and said to her, "Do you see anyone there who you have seen before?" She went direct to  the prisoner, and she said "That is the one'" I then told the defendant he could change his position if he liked and he did so, and stood on the extreme right. I then called the little boy out of my office, and he pointed out the prisoner as the one he had seen before. 

I dismissed the other lads, and had the defendant in my office. I said to him, "Those children make a serious complaint against you, and you  had better be very careful what you state." He replied. 'lt is quite true what they say, and I am sorry for it." I allowed him to return to his work. but subsequently a warrant was issued, and when I arrested him this morning he said," I am. very sorry." - The boy asked no questions of the witnesses, pleaded guilty. The Bench amended the charge to one of common assault. and sentenced Saunders to two months' herd labour." 

 

In 1886 at the age of 52, Edwin embarked on a new business venture when he opened Maidenhead Steam Laundry in what was previously a chicken farm in Furze Platt, Maidenhead, which later traded as Clean Linen Services.

 

Sadly on 16th April 1890 aged fifty six, Edwin passed away, leaving Maidenhead Steam Laundry under the control of his widow, Elizabeth.  On 23rd April the following announcement appeared in the Maidenhead Advertiser:

"Deaths-

Rogers- April 16th, at Mossy Hill, Maidenhead, Edwin Rogers, after a long painful illness, aged 56. Deeply lamented."

Edwin's obituary appears in the same issue:

"Obituary-

Mr. Edwin Rogers, proprietor of the Steam Laundry, Furze Platt, died on Wednesday last, after a long illness. Mr. Rogers was an old inhabitant of Maidenhead. He was for many years connected with the Iron Works, High-street, which he carried on in association with Mr. Bulstrode, and in that capacity his ability and integrity won him A large circle of friends.

A clever practical engineer, and a man of enterprise and industry, he built, fitted  up, and successfully worked the Steam Laundry, an undertaking of considerable magnitude. He was a man of simple,  self denying and honourable character, and ardent member of the Diocesan Guild of Bell Ringers, and an active and valued supporter of the little church at Furze Platt. *I think this may have been St Peter's not far from the laundry*

In the autumn of last year he underwent in London an operation for a most painful and dangerous malady. The result was such as to leave no hope for his recovery, and his has been virtually confined to the house since his return. He bore his great affliction with exemplary resignation and fortitude, sustained by high conviction and the sympathy of all who knew him. The internment took place at St Luke's churchyard on Monday afternoon. In the evening a muffled peal rung on the bells of All Saints'"

 

The 1891 Census shows the recently widowed Elizabeth living at Maidenhead Stream Laundry along with her children, Elizabeth (listed as Lily E), Frederick, and Edith.

  

By 1901 Elizabeth had moved to The Oaks, Courthouse Road, Maidenhead, Berkshire, where she is living with her son Frederick and his wife Mary.  Frederick's occupations is listed as laundryman.

 

In 1911 Elizabeth, still living at The Oaks, Courthouse Road is listed as the caretaker of Maidenhead Laundry.

 

Sadly Elizabeth was to pass away on 19th January 1921.

 

Cemetery Sunday - Buried Beneath The Holly Tree

 

St Luke's Churchyard, Maidenhead, Berkshire, England.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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The Children of John and Jane Neighbour, Lucy, Joseph, and Emily, and their Grandmother Ann Neighbour

Monument to Ann Neighbour, Lucy Neighbour, Joseph Neighbour and Emily Neighbour, St Luke's Churchyard, Maidenhead, Berkshire.

'In Loving Memory Of 

Ann Neighbour 

Who Died March 31st 1886 

Aged 92 years.  

Also 

Lucy Neighbour 

Who Died April 24th 1885 

Aged 6 months. 

Also 

Joseph Neighbour 

Who Died July 15th 1885 

Aged 22 years.  

Also 

Emily Neighbour 

Who Died September 19th 1886 

Aged 4 months.  

The Beloved Children of John and Jane Neighbour.'

Ann Neighbour was born in 1795 in Henley on Thames, Oxfordshire, wife of Joseph Neighbour, an agricultural labourer.

Ann can first be found on the 1841 Census living in Hambledon, Buckinghamshire (now Hampshire) with her husband Joseph,13 year old daughter Martha, who is employed as a sack maker, 4 year old son Joseph, and one month old John.

In 1851 Ann and her family are still living in Hambledon where she and her husband Joseph are working as field labourers.  The younger Joseph is making his living as a teacher in a school, and young John is attending school himself.  Sadly Ann's husband Joseph passes away in 1855, leaving her destitute with a young son to care for.

On the 1861 Census Ann is listed as an almswoman, a person in receipt of poor aid.  Living with her is her youngest son John, now 19 and working as an agricultural labourer.  In 1862 John marries Jane Willis.  You can read more about their lives together here.

Ann continued to live with her son and daughter in law, Jane, until her death in 1886.

**

Joseph was born in Henley in 1863 to John Neighbour, an agricultural labourer, gardener and later publican, and his wife Jane Willis.

He first appears on the 1871 Census aged seven years, living with his parents, younger brothers Walter and Henry and his paternal grandmother Ann in Aldershot, Hampshire.

In 1881 Joseph, aged eighteen, is lodging in the home of Thomas Stedman and his wife Sarah at Gay's House Cottage, Holyport, Berkshire, where Joseph is working as a domestic groom for horses.  Sadly just four years after that Census was taken, Joseph died at the age of twenty two.

The Slough, Eton and Windsor Observer reported on August 1st 1885 -

"Forester's Funeral - The remains of Joseph Neighbour, aged 22, a member of the local Court of Foresters, were interred on Tuesday last in St. Luke's churchyard.  About 24 of the Foresters attended as a last mark of respect to the deceased, in addition to nearly 20 relatives.  The Rev, W. G. Sawyer officiated.  A large number of wreaths were sent by various friends."


Lucy Neighbour was born in the October of 1884 in Maidenhead to John and Jane Neighbour, sadly she passed away in the April of 1885 aged 6 months

Emily Neighbour was born in May 1886 to John and Jane Willis, sadly she passed away in September of 1886.


Family Connections:

Jane Neighbour nee Willis