First World War Commonwealth War Grave - Lieutenant Edward Norkett, Royal Army Service Corps

 

 

"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".

 

 

 

Edward Norkett was born in Maidenhead Berkshire on 29th March 1880 to Edward Norkett, an Art Metal worker and his wife Harriet Bissley.

Edward first appears on the 1881 census aged just a year old, living with his parents and maternal aunts Catherine, and Mary, at Broadway, Maidenhead. By 1891 the family had moved to All saint's Avenue in Maidenhead.

 

On the 1901 census, Edward is listed living with his parents and siblings at 6 All Saints Avenue, Maidenhead Berkshire.  Edward's occupation is listed as a blacksmith.

 

On 28th July 1904 Edward married Amy Ann Pattisson at St Mary's Le Park Chapel of ease in Battersea London, where Amy was living at the time in Bolan Street.  On 8th February 1906 their daughter Nora Frances was born, sadly she was to pass away on 19th February 1906.

On 21st February 1906 the following announcements appeared in the Maidenhead Advertiser:

"Births

Norkett- On February 8th, at 15 , Bolan-street. Battersea Park, S.W., the wife of Edward Norksett jun., of a daughter."

"Deaths

Norkett- On 19th February, at 15, Bolan-street, Battersea Park, S.W., Nora Frances, infant daughter of Edward and Amy Norkett."

 

Edward Norkett was an active member in St Luke's Church in Maidenhead, playing violin there as a child and later dedicating a wrought iron and gold leaf screen, made by himself, to the church in 1910. 

Decorative Wrought Iron Scene made by Edward
St Luke's Church, Maidenhead, Berkshire

On the 1911 census Edward is listed as the manager of an Art Metal Works, he is living at 16A King Street, Maidenhead with his wife Amy, and her younger brother Walter Lawrence Pattisson, who is Edward's Apprentice.

 

Sometime after the outbreak of World War I, Edward enlisted with the Royal Army Service Corps.  The Royal Army Service Corps were responsible for land, coastal, and lake transport; air dispatch; supply of food, water, fuel, and general domestic stores such as clothing, furniture and stationery; administration of barracks; the Army Fire Service; and provision of staff clerks to headquarters units. He was stationed in Christchurch, New Zealand.

Lieutenant Edward Norkett (right)
and his son Walter

 

Unfortunately, I cannot trace Edward's Military Service Records.  He died from kidney disease on 25th March 1919 at the military hospital in Wareham Dorset.  

On 2nd April 1919 the Maidenhead Advertiser reported:

"Death of the Ex-Mayor's Son.

A Military Funeral.

We deeply regret to announce the death in hospital of Lieutenant Edward Norkett, R.A.S.C., the elder son of the ex-mayor, Councillor E. Norkett, of All Saints'-avenue and High Town-road. He died on Tuesday in last week at the Wareham Military Hospital, after a useful career in the A.S.C. during the war, in which service he rose to a commission as a Lieutenant. We feel sure that all our readers will share our deep regret at the sad loss sustained by the ex-mayor and his respected family, and will concur in the public expression of condolence passed by the Town Council at their last week's sitting.

The late Lieutenant Norkett was widely known in the town and neighbourhood, and took a prominent part in the efficient maintenance of the Volunteer corps. He assisted his father in the motor business in High Town-road, and his loss to the business will be irreparable. The deceased, who was well-known in the Wareham district, was a member of the Ringwood Lodge of Freemasons.

The body was removed from the hospital to Wareham Station on Friday, preparatory to the internment at Maidenhead. The coffin was borne on a gun carriage drawn by six horses, and behind it followed the deceased's charger, with the deceased's riding boots reversed, and  Lieut-Colonel Maurice, R.A.S.C., Major Collier, Major Wilson, and Captain Lloyd. The pall-bearers were three of the deceased's brother officers and three officers of the Tank Corps (Wareham). The R. E. Training Centre at Christchurch were represented by Lieutenant Cooper; the Army Veterinary Corps by Sergeant-Major Tillett; the New Zealand Engineers by Sergeant-Major Brownlee, Sergeant-Major Dyson and Sergeant Duncan; Mr. J. W. Whiting represented the D O.R.E., Christchurch, and others present included Mr. D. Wilton, late of Maidenhead, who had known the deceased since boyhood.

The body having been brought to Maidenhead, the funeral service was held on Saturday afternoon at All Saints' Church conducted by the Rev. J. F. S. Russell, and the internment was in the graveyard attached to the church. 

Mr. and Mrs. Norkett and the widow have received a number of letters from officers and others testifying to their deep respect for the late Lieutenant. Major M. C. Collier writes from the Wareham Headquarters:- "He was an officer that knew his duty and performed it with precision, and one that I could always trust implicitly. Christchurch during his tenure of command was always my model station. May I tell you that I sent his name up twice for inclusion in the 'honours' list, and I was always sorry that it was cut out by higher authorities, as if anyone deserved a 'mention' it was he."

Lieut.-Col. A. J. Maurice, in the course of a sympathetic letter to the young widow, says that though he had known Lieut. Norkett only six months "I had learned to appreciate his character, and value to the good and strenuous work he always did. I know that he endeared himself to all who came in contact with him, and he will be sadly missed."" 

Edward's World War I Medal Card suggests that Amy applied for his Territorial Forces Medal after his death on 3rd May 1920.  The Territorial Force War Medal was a campaign medal awarded to members of the British Territorial Force and Territorial Force Nursing Services who served overseas in World War I, it is the rarest of the five British Great War medals.

After Edward's death Amy and Walter moved to 36 Cromwell Road, Maidenhead, where they can both be found on the 1921 Census.

 

Edward and Amy's only surviving child Walter Edward Norkett was to serve with the Royal Army Service Corps during World War II, sadly he died during service sometime between 31st May and 4th June 1940, just two years after the death of his mother.  He is buried in Dunkirk Cemetery in France.

 

Maybe it was some small mercy that Amy died before Walter after losing Edward to war service.

 



Richard Gorton, Dairy Farmer at Chuff's Farm, Holyport, and his wife Mary Sarah Gorton.

Monument to Mary Sarah Gorton and Richard Gorton of Chuffs Farm, Bray Parish Cemetery, Holyport Berkshire.

"Sacred to the memory of Mary Sarah beloved wife of Richard Gorton (of Chuffs Farm Holyport) who died August 10th 1904 aged 76 years.

Also

Richard Gorton who died July 29th 1915 aged 85 years."

Mary Sarah Gorton was born Mary Sarah Snook in 1830 in West Knoyle, Wiltshire to William Snook, a farmer, and his wife Jane Ovens.

Mary can first be found on the 1841 Census, aged 10, living with her parents and sblings in West Knoyle, Wiltshire. By 1851 the family has moved to Byde Mill, in Hannington, Wiltshire.

On October 20th 1853 Mary married Richard Gorton, a farmer and baker, in Hannington, Wiltshire.

Richard was born in 1831 in Highworth, Wiltshire to Charles Gorton, a baker, and his wife Jane Yeats.

Richard first appears on the 1841 Census, aged 10, living with his parents and siblings in Sheep Street, Highworth, Wiltshire. In 1851 Richard has taken over the bakery in Sheep Street along with his sister Elizabeth, while his parents have taken over a Crouch farm in Highworth, Wiltshire. While working as a baker in Highworth, Richard was contacted to supply bread and flour to the union workhouse at 6½d per 4lb loaf and flour at £2.6s a sack.

The 1861 Census finds Richard and Mary living in Market Place, Highworth, Wiltshire with their children Sarah Jane, William Charles, and Henry George. Also living with the family was Thomas Austin, a baker, John Ely, and apprentice baker, Charlotte Llot, a housemaid, Elizabeth Johnson, a nursemaid, William Moulden, an agricultural labourer, and his 10-year-old son George, who is listed as being a plough boy. By the 1871 Census the family had moved to Upper Inglesham Road, Inglesham, Wiltshire, where Richard is listed as just a farmer. The family had grown to include Mary, Ellen, Elizabeth, Agnes, Fanny, and Lucy. Living with the family is Franny Grub, a general domestic servant, and Elizabeth Clark, a dairymaid. Visiting the family at the time of the census was Sarah Winter. Later in 1871 Richard and Mary were to suffer the loss of their 2 year old daughter, Fanny.

By 1881 the family had moved to 22 Newport Street, Swindon, Wiltshire, where Richard is now listed as just a baker. The family had grown to include their daughter Stafford Louise. 

1891 finds Richard, his wife Mary, and daughters Mary, and Stafford living at Temple Dairy, Hurley Berkshire. 

By 1901 Richard, Mary, and their daughter Mary had moved to Chuff's Dairy (Chuff's farm), in Holyport, Berkshire. However, Mary Sarah was to pass away three years later on 10th August 1904. The Maidenhead Advertiser reported on 17th August 1904:

"Death of Mrs. Gorton- 

We regret to have to record the death of Mrs. Gorton, wife of Mr. Gorton, of Chaff's Farm, Holyport, which occurred somewhat suddenly on Wednesday last. Mrs. Gorton, who was 74 years of age, had been ailing for some time. She was much respected by all who knew her. The funeral took place on Monday afternoon at Bray cemetery, the officiating clergyman being the Rev. H. J. F. Tringham. The coffin, which was of polished elm, with brass furniture, bore the following inscription

" Mary Sarah Gorton, died Aug. 10, 1901, aged 74 years." 

The mourners were Mr. Gorton (husband), Mr. and Mrs. Sharps (son-in-law and eldest daughter), Mr. end Mrs. Charles Gorton (son and daughter-in-law), Mr. and Mrs. Georg* Gorton (son and daughter-in-law), Miss Mary Gorton (daughter), Mr. and M. Snowden (son-in-law and daughter), Mrs. Millington (daughter), Mr. and Mrs. Parker (son-in-law and daughter), and Mr. J. Snook (deceased's brother).

Floral tokens were contributed by the following Mr. and Miss Gorton (Holyport), Mr. and Mrs. Sharpe (South Manton, Swindon). Mr. and Mrs. C. Gorton (London), Mr. and Mrs. G. Gorton (Holyport), Mr. and Mrs. Snowden (Woking), Mrs. Millington (London), Mr. and Mrs. Parker (London), Mrs. Horton (Down Ampney, Cricklade). and Mrs. A. Willson (Holyport). The funeral arrangements were very satisfactorily carried out by Mr. F. Sexton, undertaker, Holyport."

Mr. F. Sexton is Frederick Sexton, son of Frederick Sexton of Holyport.

Later that year, Richard sold the dairy farm and retired. The Maidenhead Advertiser carried the following announcement on 21st December 1904:

" HOLYPORT DAIRY. ESTABLISHED 1870. J. GOOD & SONS, 

Cowkeepers, Dairy Farmers and Poulterers,

Beg to announce that they have Purchased the CHUFFS PARK DAIRY BUSINESS of Mr. R. GORTON, and hope by strict attention to business to obtain the support lately extended to Mr. R. Gorton. 

Pure New Milk from our own Farms, and all kinds of Dairy Produce Delivered Twice Daily in Maidenhead and Bray." 

The 1911 Census shows widowed Richard living with his spinster daughter Mary at 8 Broadway, Maidenhead, Berkshire.  Richard was to pass away on 29th July 1915.

Mary can be found on the 1921 Census, boarding with Frederick and Daisy Fountain at 58 Bell Street, Maidenhead. Berkshire. Mary was to pass away in 1929

Cemetery Sunday - Together

Two gravestones share a secret at All Saints Cemetery, Maidenhead Berkshire.

 

 

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William Langley of Fifield Road, and his wife Emily Langley - Sweethearts Re-United

Moneument to William Langley and Emily Langley, Bray Parish Cemetery, Bray, Berkshire.

"In loving memory of 

William Langley 

1874 - 1939 

also his wife 

Emily Langley 

1876 - 1958

Sweethearts Re-united."

William Langley was born in Fifield Berkshire in 1874 to John Langley, a farm carter, and his wife Eliza Goom.  

William first appears on the 1881 Census, aged 7, living with his parents and siblings near Stroud Farm in Fifield, Berkshire. William's mother Eliza was to pass away in 1890. 

By 1891 William can be found living with his widowed father, his older brother John, and elder sister Louisa in Fifield, Berkshire William's occupation is listed as a shoemaker.  William was to later become a farm cartman.  On 15th November 1898 William was assaulted at the Queen's Head Public House in Water Oakley, not farm from Fifield. On 16th November 1898 the Maidenhead Advertiser reported:

"AN UNPROVOKED. 

William Stevens, of no fixed abode, was charged with having assaulted and beaten William Langley, at Water Oakley, on the previous day. He pleaded not guilty. 

The complainant, who is a farm labourer in the employ of Mr. F. C. Hands, of Water Oakley Farm, said that on the previous afternoon he saw the prisoner at the Queen's Head, Water Oakley, at about half-past 5. Mr. Hands had given him a sovereign to get some small change and he went to the Queen's Head to get it from the landlord. Prisoner was in the taproom along with another man. Whilst at the house the man prisoner was with offered him some nuts, but he said that he did not want any. Shortly afterwards the prisoner started pushing him and knocked his head against a post, which made his nose bleed. He had not spoken to the man before and did not know him. 

Prisoner denied that he hit complainant and added that he did not remember having seen him before. 

Edward Upton, landlord of the Queen's Head, Water Oakley, said that the prisoner was in his house at about quarter-past 5 the night previous and at the time complainant was in the house. He saw prisoner bumping complainant's head against a post. He did not know what caused the prisoner to assault Langley. There were three men and two women with the prisoner. 

Inspector Holding said that at about 6.30 he received a telephone message that an assault bad been committed at Water Oakley, and with assistance he proceeded along the Bray-road and met prisoner, two other men and two women. He enquired where they had come from and prisoner replied  - " Windsor." he then told them that an assault had been committed and he should detain them until the prosecutor identified his assailant. He then brought the five to Maidenhead where, later in the evening, complainant identified the prisoner as the man who had assaulted him. 

Prisoner admitted that he had been to the Queen's Head. 

The Magistrates' Clerk : Do you know anything about prisoner Inspector Holding : He's a tramp, sir.

Prisoner said that he was very sorry, but he did not remember having struck complainant, although he had had a little drop of beer. He added "I assure you that if I had assaulted him I did not do it intentionally."

Mr Whitebread said that they looked upon it as a very unprovoked assault and they intended to putting a stop to this sort of thing; he would have to go to prison for 14 days, with hard labour."

William is living with his father, Older sister Emily, and her young son William, on the 1901 Census at 1 Fifield Road,

Emily Langley was born Emily Harris in Navestock, Essex on 5th April 1876 to Mary Ann Harris.  

Emily first appears on the 1881 Census aged 4, where she can be found living with her grandparents George and Mary Ann Harris, and her uncle Cornell Harris in Curtis Mill Green, Navestock, Essex. In 1891 Emily is still living with her grandparents and uncle but they have moved to Paulille Hall, South Weald, Essex. Emily's grandfather George was to pass away that same year.  By 1901, Emily and her elderly grandmother had moved to 47 The Village, South Weald, Essex

William and Emily Langley

In 1902 in Maidenhead, Berkshire, William married Emily Harris.  By 1911 they had two children, Gladys aged 7, and William aged just one year.  Living with them at the time was the 85-year-old widowed John Langley.

William's father, John Langley, was to pass away in 1914.  

William and Emily are still living in Fifield Road on the 1921 Census. Living with them at the time is William's older brother John.

William was to pass away in 1939, just before the 1939 England and Wales Register was taken. The widowed Emily can be found still living in Fifield at 4 Fifield Road, Fifield, Berkshire with her son William Herbert, and his wife Alexina. Emily was to pass away in 1958.

.

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 on 3rd February 1892 in Stoke Poges 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 from Broncho Pneumonia at Reading War Hospital 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 and George Jr can be found on the 1921 Census living at 58 Powney Road, Maidenhead. Living with them is Edith's orphaned nephew Henry Eaton. Later Edith and George Jr moved to 11 Belfast Avenue, Slough, Buckinghamshire, where George Jr is working in the local milk factory. George Jr remained in Slough until his death in 2017

Edith later remarried in 1926 to Frederick Gray.

 

Connections: Edith Eaton's uncle George Eaton.

 



Frances Louisa Comber, wife of Charles Comber, Police Constable and Night Watchman.

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 in the 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.  

On the 1881 Census, the newlyweds can be found living at 35 Union Street, Clapham, London ,with their two young daughters Louisa Jane aged 1 year, and Lucy aged just 6 days.  At that time Frances was using the name Louisa.

In 1884 another son Frederick Comber was born but sadly passed away that same year.

By 1891 the family had moved to Oakley Green, Bray, Berkshire.  Charles is now a night watchman at New Lodge, and the family has expanded to include Charles William aged 9, Walter 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, 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. Charles 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."

By the 1921 Census, Charles and his daughter Louisa Jane had moved to 77a The Crescent, Slough, Berkshire. Charles was to pass away in 1923, aged 78.

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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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 on "0th May 1882 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 had 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 - Died at Maidenhead Hospital - 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 on 29th August 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:

"FUNEREAL 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 FUNERAL 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 May, 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. By 1821 Arthur had left the farm leaving Elizabeth, John, and Hattie together.

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 - Maidenhead Station Ticket Collector

 

 

"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 Middleton, 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 was residing at Oxford Wood Barracks with his mother and father.  On 14th July 1906 Charles entered the employ of the Great Western Railway, Swindon Division as a Shed Boy,  resigning the position on 1st March 1907

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. Later the couple moved to 29 Grenfell Place, Maidenhead, Berkshire.

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, 29 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.

On 10th March 1920 the Maidenhead Advertiser reported:

"Two Funerals for Railwaymen.

Two very impressive funerals took place last week, each being that of a member of the staff at Maidenhead G.W.R. Station.

The second funeral was that of Ticket-Collector Charles Edward Cox, of Grenfell-place, who passed away after only a few days' suffering from pneumonia, following influenza. He had been about 13 years in the company's service, and the last eight years were spent at Maidenhead. He had only been released from the Colours about three months, after having served some three years in the R.E.s' in France.  The funeral took place at All Saints' Church on Thursday, the Rev. J. F. S. Russell officiating. In this case also, about forty of the deceased's colleagues from Maidenhead and neighbouring stations attended to pay a last mark of respect. Four of his late comrades acted as bearers, namely, Ticket Collectors Cook and Hall, and Porter Ball, and Lampman Ramsey. Mr. Wills, the station master, was represented by Messrs. Fletcher, Calcott, and Jacques, of the office staff.

The mourners were, Mrs. C. E. Cox (widow), Mfr. and Mrs. Cox (father and mother), Mr. G. W. Groves (father-in-law). Mrs. Eason (aunt), Mr. and Mrs. G Groves, Mr. and Mrs. J Wheeler, Miss. D Groves, Mr. A Groves, Mr. T Wheeler, and Mr. F Groves, (brothers and sister-in-law), Mr. Bowyer (friend)." 

The now widowed Elsie can be found on the 1921 Census living with her father George Groves, and siblings Arthur Groves, and Daisy Groves, at 27 Grenfell Place. Elsie never remarried and passed away on 27 July 1973 at her home, 184 Cookham Road, Maidenhead.

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, Farmer 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 Oakley 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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