Peterborough & The Great War

Biography

Harold was born in Manchester on 21 June 1892, to parents Alfred, a house painter and Martha Jane (nee Garside).  In 1901 Harold, aged nine, is living at 9 Charles Street, St George in the Fields, Manchester with his parents Alfred (44) and Martha Jane (38) and seven siblings.

By 1911 Henry (19) is a warehouse hand and living at 73 Hendham Vale, Harpurhey, Manchester with his parents and siblings, Ethel (26) domestic work at home, Alfred (24) painter, Lena (21) cap maker, Arthur (17) drapery shop assistant, Harry (15) errand boy, Walter (13) and William (11).

Harold enlisted on 27 November 1915, and initially joined the Manchester Regiment.  He was transferred to the 9^th Battalion Kings Shropshire Light Infantry on 13 February 1916, and then to the 2/4 Battalion on 1 May 1916.  He saw no duty overseas.

Harold was serving with the Kings Shropshire Light Infantry when he passed through Peterborough East Station on 21 November 1916.  He was stationed at Great Yarmouth.

On 7 March 1917, he was transferred to duty with Vickers Ltd, River Don Works, Sheffield with the Class W (T) Territorial Force Reserves.  This class was introduced in June 1916, for soldiers whose services were deemed more valuable to the country in civil, rather than military employment.  He was recalled to the colours on 30 July 1918, and discharged on 14 September 1918.  He was awarded the Silver War badge.

In 1939, Harold was still living at 73 Hendham Vale and is employed as a pickler, carrying out heavy work in the wire making industry.  He is living with his sister Lena, a fine wire worker.  They are both unmarried.  Harold died in Manchester in 1974, aged 81.

Do you recognise Harold’s story?  Please get in touch if you can tell us more.