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Wrexham

Telegraph

C O V E R I N G W R E X H A M , E A S T D E N B I G H S H I R E A N D F L I N T S H I R E ( D E TA C H E D ) THE GREAT WAR – COMMEMORATIVE EDITION

Printed at Caxton Buildings, Regent Street, Wrexham

TWO PENCE

FIRST SEND OFF FROM WREXHAM

BUSY SCENES AT BARRACKS

Early on Wednesday, it became known that the first batch of Army Reservists were to leave Wrexham for duty at Portland, where they will be attached to the 2nd Battalion R.W.F. Following the announcement, a state of enthusiasm and excitement began to spread amongst the people, until in the evening just before the departure of the reservists, one could feel the wave of enthusiasm passing over the large number of people like an electric shock. From the Barracks to the railway station the streets traversed were lined with people, and everywhere along the route ringing cheers were accorded the military men, who were headed and played to the station by the band of the R.W.F. The departure was accompanied by several pathetic incidents. At the

station, as the reservists entered the building, women and children who were bidding farewell to husbands and fathers and young ladies to their sweethearts, gave shrieks that were piercing which brought tears to the eyes of many of the more manly. The 359 men were given a civic send off with the mayor making a formal address. As the train steamed out ringing cheers went up from the large crowd and in these cheers we venture to say, those left behind with aching hearts, said a silent prayer 'that no harm might befall them'. The reservists called out 'for God and Country' as the train steamed away. And so there passed on Wrexham’s first quota to a fighting strength which every Briton today is proud of. (North Wales Guardian, 7.8.1914)

BRITAIN’S DECLARATION The terms of the declaration by Great Britain are as follows: "OWING TO THE SUMMARY REJECTION BY THE GERMAN GOVERNMENT OF THE REQUEST MADE BY HIS MAJESTY’S GOVERNMENT FOR ASSURANCES THAT THE NEUTRALITY OF BELGIUM WILL BE RESPECTED, HIS MAJESTY’S AMBASSADOR AT BERLIN HAS RECEIVED HIS PASSPORTS, AND HIS MAJESTY’S GOVERNMENT HAS DECLARED TO THE GERMAN GOVERNMENT THAT A STATE OF WAR EXISTS BETWEEN BRITAIN AND GERMANY AS FROM 11 P.M. ON AUGUST 4TH." (WREXHAM ADVERTISER, 8.8.1914)

BUSY SCENES AT RECRUITING HEADQUARTERS

A very promising response is being made for Lord Esher’s appeal for 30,000 Territorials to fill the gaps made by those who have volunteered for service abroad. Many well-known footballers have enlisted. Mr Edward Mobb, the Northampton rugby player, has obtained permission to raise a corps of 250 men for Lord Kitchener’s army with the guarantee that they shall be in the same detachment. An excellent suggestion is made by Mr J.T. Fripp who writes "I am told that a large number of otherwise acceptable young men are rejected on account of bad teeth. Some of these are hopeless but could be made fit by a few judicious extractions and the treatment and filling-in of remaining teeth to make them useful. I therefore appeal to every man of serviceable age to go at once to a

dental surgeon. Let him take this letter and ask him to put him right and give him a certificate of fitness without fee or charge." Mr Gibbins, a steel manufacturer of Neath, travelled to Cardiff with recruits comprising the whole of his unmarried male employees. After dining with the men, Mrs Gibbins presented each with cigarettes and a case. Lady Glenconner has taken up the role of recruiter by visiting farmers in the neighbourhood of her residence at Wilsford and inducing carters and agricultural labourers to join Lord Kitchener’s Army. Many firms are urging their employees between the ages of 18 and 30 to offer themselves as recruits. They promise them employment at the conclusion of the war. In the meantime arrangements are made for the adequate support of dependants. (Wrexham Advertiser, 5.9.1914)

THE ENEMY IN OUR MIDST ARRESTS IN WREXHAM AND DISTRICT

The wholesale arrests of German and Austrian subjects in all parts of the country, on Wednesday, made it clear that the authorities now intend interning all male alien enemies of military age and residing in this country, as prisoners during the period of the war. In common with other places, the police of Denbighshire effectively and quietly made arrests on Wednesday, and completed their work on Thursday, when sixteen Germans were detained at the County Buildings, Wrexham, pending their removal to a detention camp. They were arrested in the districts of Llangollen, Brymbo, Llay, Ruabon and Wrexham and those arrested include drapers’ assistants, men of the merchant service and navy, mechanics, waiters and a merchant’s clerk. Included in the arrests made by the Llangollen police were several Germans who have for some time been on a visit to the vale of Llangollen. (North Wales Guardian, 25.10.1914)

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A story was circulated in Wrexham on Saturday that there was a German spy in the town. We understand that the police received a description of the supposed spy, and later in the day, a man answering to the description was detained for a few minutes. The news spread like wild fire and no little commotion was caused.

SUPPOSED GERMAN SPY IN WREXHAM

(Wrexham Advertiser, 15.8.1914)

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YOUR KING AND COUNTRY NEED YOU - MOBILISATION

NOW is the time for the YOUNG MEN of the County who have not hitherto joined the Territorial Force, to show their Patriotism in the hour of the country’s urgent need, and rally round the flag. Any man between the ages of 17 and 35, not serving in the National Reserve, and anxious to give in their names, should go to the person whose name he will see on Posters which are about to be issued throughout Denbighshire. GOD SAVE THE KING!

LEGAL AND PUBLIC NOTICES

RETIRED MILITARY OFFICERS AND PENSIONERS from the ARMY are NOTIFIED THAT THEIR SERVICES ARE URGENTLY REQUIRED in the present crisis, to assist in obtaining RECRUITS FOR THE ARMY. Liberal terms are offered for their services Apply at once to the Recruiting Officer, Barracks, Wrexham (Wrexham Advertiser, 08.08.1914)

WREXHAM TELEGRAPH

THE GREAT WAR – COMMEMORATIVE EDITION

The WAR

THE WAR IN THE DISTRICTS

COEDPOETH After being mobilised during the week, the local Territorials returned home on Saturday afternoon, and assembling together at the Parish Hall at night, marched to Wrexham, being headed by a portion of the Coedpoeth Silver Band.

RUABON Great enthusiasm prevailed at Ruabon on Saturday night when the local company of Territorials left to join the Battalion at Wrexham. The streets were thickly lined people and the men, who looked very fit, were given a very hearty 'send off'. In the medical examination, only one member of the company was rejected, and two were certified as being temporarily unfit. RUABON VOLUNTARY AID DETACHMENT Mrs Pilkington, the Commandant of the Ruabon V.A.D., this week called the members together. It was decided to forthwith arrange sewing classes, where garments, etc., will be made for the use of the soldiers.

BRYMBO Scenes of remarkable enthusiasm and patriotism were witnessed in Brymbo. The local Territorials marched from their Headquarters, the Drill Hall, Black Lane, through the village and entrained for Wrexham. In many instances women were unable to suppress their feelings at the departure of their husbands and sons. On the other hand, their patriotism was made evident when the Brymbo Institute Band played the National Anthem. For some time past a number of Germans have been employed doing special work at the Brymbo Steel Works and they are still engaged there. (Wrexham Advertiser, 15.08.1914)

FORMATION OF "PALS" BATTALION

THRILLING SCENES IN WREXHAM

RESERVISTS RETURN TO THE COLOURS DEPARTURE OF DETACHMENTS Widespread Support & Enthusiasm WREXHAM MAYOR’S APPEAL

More Men for Kitchener’s Army: Wrexham’s Splendid Record: Two Battalions Completed. THE "PALS" BATTALION

WAR CRISIS "FOR THE HONOUR OF WALES"

The Mayor of Wrexham on Thursday afternoon issued the following appeal:

A group of Denbighshire Hussars, First World War (WREMA 87.49.25)

GALLANT RESPONSE IN WREXHAM

Welsh horse-trained men who have served in the mounted branches of His Majesty’s Forces and are not liable to serve in any existing organisation, are offered a chance of Active Service. Enrol Now. Hesitators not wanted, but men for the honour of Wales. Persons can enrol at the Town Clerk’s Office, Wrexham, on any weekday between the hours of 9 a.m. and 8 p.m. S.G. Jarman, Mayor of Wrexham, Guildhall, Wrexham 6th August, 1914 (Wrexham Advertiser, 8.8.1914)

ENTHUSIASTIC MEETING IN WREXHAM

The Church House was crowded to its utmost capacity last Friday evening on the occasion of a meeting to further the movement to form a "Pals" Battalion for North Wales. It was obvious from the tone of the meeting that Wrexham will provide its quota in an exceptionally short time. It was announced during the meeting that 75 had already joined, and a large number of names were taken at the close. (Wrexham Advertiser, 12.9.1914)

Parliamentary Recruiting Committee, Poster No.21 (WREMA 84.50.10)

CONCEALING A DESERTER FULL PENALTY IMPOSED POLICE COURT PROCEEDINGS AT RUABON

A Denbighshire Hussar, First World War (WREMA 87.49.30)

BACK FROM THE FRONT

One of Wrexham’s contributions to the fighting line, Private 79 Davies, (R.W.F.), who was wounded by a shell at the Battle of Mons, has returned to his home in Wrexham. He said "I was wounded by a shell in several places at Mons. We proceeded from Rouen into the open country. As soon as we got to the place appointed we set about digging trenches until two o’clock in the morning. We only started on the Saturday night and

the next morning we were in action. You talk about South Africa as a fight. This is a fight! South Africa is a tea-party compared to it. The aeroplanes around us were like a nest of bees. The Royal Welsh brought down one of them. It had two passengers, a Maxim gun and 1,000 rounds of ammunition. I am sorry I could not stay to see the job finished. We shall win all right; but we shall have to fight for it."

(Wrexham Advertiser, 12.9.1914)

This publication was produced by Wrexham Heritage Service (Wrexham County Borough Museum & Archives) to mark the centenary of the First World War.

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At Ruabon Petty Sessions yesterday (Friday), Wm. Davidson*, Stryt Issa, Penycae, was summoned by P.C. Shone for concealing a deserter. The Clerk said that as no solicitors were engaged in the case, he might explain that a man named Samuel Bright*, a private in the Cheshire Regiment, who was a reservist, had been called to rejoin the Colours. He reported himself, and was drafted to headquarters in Londonderry. It appeared that after being there for three days, he deserted and went into hiding in this district. It was further alleged that while he was a deserter his relatives received relief intended for the support of the relatives of those men serving their country. If that was correct, it was about as mean an act as anyone could commit. Private Bright was brought before the Court and handed over to a military escort from Chester, where he was taken and dealt with by court martial. P.C. Shone attested to arresting Pte. Bright in the house of the defendant at one o’clock in the early morning of Oct. 11th. He secured the assistance of Acting Sergt. Roberts and P.C. Lloyd, of Rhos, and the house was surrounded. Pte. Bright and the defendant were the only two people in the house. When he charged Bright with being a deserter, he did not say anything, but the defendant said "You might as well speak out, and tell the truth. It would have been better for you to have given yourself up than for them to come and fetch

Parliamentary Recruiting Committee, Poster No.23 (WREMA 84.50.1)

you like this." Defendant further stated that Bright came to the house on Sept. 29th and had not come out of the house at all since. P.C. Lloyd said that he concealed himself at the back of the defendant’s house near the window. Pte. Bright opened the window and was being helped through by the defendant. When he was getting through the window, Bright exclaimed "Oh, I am done for. There’s another one here." Sergt. Fox said that when received into custody, Bright admitted that he had deserted from Londonderry, and that he threw away his clothing. Defendant, on oath, said Bright came to his house at 11.55 one wet night, and asked if he could stay the night. Witness did not like to turn him away. Witness went to work the next morning, and when he returned Bright was still there. Bright assured him that he was on a temporary discharge, but witness told him he would have to go, as with such a large family he could not afford to keep him, whilst there was also no room in the house. He started crying and witness did not like to turn him out. Bright’s wife also promised to keep him in food. He could not get to know positively whether Bright was a deserter or not, as he said if he was a deserter his wife’s relief would have been stopped. The Chairman said the defendant would be sentenced to imprisonment for six months with hard labour. It was a severe sentence, in fact, the maximum penalty. The Bench were of the opinion that it was necessary in view of the circ*mstances. The present time was a time of war and by concealing this man he was practically aiding the enemy. They hoped the case would be a warning to others. *Names have been changed to ensure anonymity. (Wrexham Advertiser, 24.10.1914)

Parliamentary Recruiting Committee, Poster No.24 (WREMA 84.50.5)

THE BELGIAN RFUGEES IN WREXHAM

The 20 Belgian refugees who were

given such a cordial reception on their arrival in Wrexham, on Friday, last

week,

have

settled

down

comfortably in their new home in Chester-street. They appear to be

quite happy and contented, and are most profuse in their thanks for the

Volunteers outside County Buildings, Regent Street, Wrexham, 1914 (Wrexham Archives, 595/1)

hospitality extended to them. Two

houses in Grove Park have been lent by the trustees of the William and John Jones Hospital for temporary

use by the refugees. A considerable sum of money will be required each

week for the maintenance of our guests, but there need be little fear on

this score. Many generous offers of

help have been received, including donations of £1 per week from each of

two collieries, and a levy of 1d per head — to which the men heartily

agree — at two or three other collieries. (Wrexham Advertiser, 31.10.1914)

Belgian refugees arriving at Wrexham railway station (WREMA 90.28.632)

Res earchers & S ub-edi tors: Trevor Britton, Paula Plant, Sally Cresswell, Gordon Griffiths & Rob Jarvis Editor & Picture Editor: Jonathan Gammond D e s i g n : JPDS Creative

Volunteers outside County Buildings, Regent Street, Wrexham, 1914 © Denbighshire Archives, DD/W/869

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WREXHAM TELEGRAPH

THE GREAT WAR – COMMEMORATIVE EDITION

PUBLISHED BY THE PARLIMENTARY RECRUITING COMMITTEE, LONDON.

POSTER N O. 108.

.. LONDON, E.C. PRINTED BY SPOTTISWOODE & C O. L TD

PLEASE DO NOT REMOVE THIS NEWSPAPER FROM THE MUSEUM

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WREXHAM TELEGRAPH

LEGAL AND PUBLIC NOTICES NO GERMAN OWING to a RUMOUR which is gaining currency in Wrexham since the War commenced that T.W.DORROFIELD, CONFECTIONER, 8,CHURCH STREET AND 4, EGERTON STREET, is a German or Austrian, he wishes to state that he was BORN IN WARWICKSHIRE of Parents of SCOTCH and FRENCH EXTRACTION, who were both BORN IN HERTFORDSHIRE, therefore he cannot be of either German or Austrian descent.

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(Wrexham Advertiser, 15.08.1914)

WARNING

It has come to the knowledge of MRS LOVATT, Tobacconist and Hairdresser, of 31, Regent-street, Wrexham, that it is rumoured that she is of German parentage. This is quite untrue, as she is the daughter of Welsh and English parents. Her father was a Wrexham tradesman of many years standing, and was well-known to thousands of inhabitants. Mrs Lovatt is native born, and has lived in Wrexham all her life. As the rumour is calculated to do her much harm in her business and she will be reluctantly compelled to prosecute any person who continues the circulation of this pernicious rumour. (Wrexham Advertiser, 31.10.1914)

"GOD SAVE THE KING”

The Welsh Fusiliers

Following brilliant fighting against enormous odds, comparatively few of the 1st Battalion R.W.F. are left. Descriptions from soldiers show that the battalion was practically surrounded. Private Jack Ellis says the men were eager for the experience of battle and they advanced in artillery formation until they were in rifle range. The Fusiliers first dealt with a party of snipers in a farmhouse. Then, as they advanced, the shrapnel shells from the enemy’s guns soon wrought great havoc, and Lt Chance was killed in leading the men in action. The order was given for a further advance and Capt Skaife called upon a section to follow him and try to capture 2 of the enemy’s guns which were doing most of the mischief. Very successfully were the gallant Welsh making their way and they had got up to within 5 yards of the guns when Capt Skaife was killed by a shell. This section being much in advance of the main line, was ordered to retire when their goal was all but reached. The Germans took full advantage of the retreat and swept the gallant little band with bullets and shrapnel. Private George H Davis, who is now a prisoner of war in Gottingen in a letter to his mother says it was terrible to see the men die and he considers himself very lucky to have escaped death. Another survivor says:- "The battle was terrible to behold. Men were falling thick and fast. They had been caught in a trap and all that remains of the battalion was 40. The rest were all killed and wounded in the frightful carnage." It is stated the regiment has lost 25 officers killed, wounded and missing. (Wrexham Advertiser, 14.11.1914)

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ROSENEATH MILITARY RED CROSS HOSPITAL, WREXHAM

Roseneath, Grove Park, which belongs to the John Jones Foundation, is now quite ready for the reception of patients, it having been arranged as a Military Red Cross Hospital. There are seven wards, and these have been named the Kitchener, Albert, Joffre, French, Jellicoe, Haigh and Smith-Dorrien wards respectively. Beds of the latest hospital pattern are prepared for the wounded and lockers, also of approved surgical design, are placed between each bed. The floors are polished and a cheerful fire warms each room. There is an operating theatre and a sterilizing room and a complete X-ray apparatus is also to be provided. The kitchens are large and well-equipped. Adjoining the kitchens is a large common room for the nurses and upstairs is a smoke room for the patients. Sister Smith will be in charge and she will be assisted by four trained nurses and a number of ladies of the Wrexham detachment of the Voluntary Aid Organisation.

THE GREAT WAR – COMMEMORATIVE EDITION

The British Welterweight Boxing Championship Sergeant Basham Brings The Belt To Wrexham A Notable Victory

Sergeant Johnny Basham of the Royal Welsh Fusiliers, who resides at Whitegate Rd., Wrexham, set the seal on a brilliant career when at the National Sporting Club, London, on Monday night, he defeated Johnny Summers, the holder of the Welterweight belt, in the ninth round for the British Championship. The contest was witnessed by a large crowd, which included a number of enthusiastic friends from Wrexham, and although there was some disappointment amongst Londoners at the defeat of their favourite, who was thus preventing from becoming the permanent possessor of the belt and lost a life’s pension, there was not

the slightest doubt that he was beaten by a better man. In the words of an expert writer in the 'Sporting Life' he won in absolutely decisive style. For two rounds he had rather a bad time; for the next six he boxed with real artistry, his method being a happy combination of speed in attack and puzzling defence; then in the final round he did what few even of his own supporters believed him capable of doing, landed a punch that was hard enough and true enough to knock out any welterweight in the world. After being knocked down Summers slowly rose to his feet but Basham sent in another well-judged punch which again sent Summers

(Wrexham Advertiser, 5.12.1914)

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DEATH OF A BELGIAN SOLDIER IN WREXHAM THE FUNERAL

The internment of the remains of Joseph Verbeken, the Belgian soldier who died at the Wrexham Military Hospital, Croesnewydd, on Monday, as the result of wounds received in battle, took place at the Borough Cemetery, yesterday (Friday). He was buried with full military honours. The scene along the whole route from the Hospital to the Cemetery was an impressive one, the roadside being lined with thousands of people, who despite the inclement weather, assembled to pay their respects to one who had laid down his life for this country as much as for his own. About 400 troops of the 3rd Battalion R.W.F. took part in the mournful procession, and the Battalion Band played the "Dead March" in "Saul" with much effect. The coffin was covered with a Belgian flag and the Union Jack, and a number of beautiful wreaths, and the deceased soldier’s cap was placed upon it. The grave space, the gift of the Corporation, is in the Catholic portion of the soldiers’ corner. An impressive service, conducted by Rev Father Nightingale, was watched by a huge crowd of people, and at its close a party of the 3rd Battalion fired three volleys, followed by the sounding of the "Last Post" by six buglers. (Wrexham Advertiser, 7.11.1914)

Wounded veterans convalescing at Roseneath, the new military hospital in Grove Park. (DWL 654)

Nursing staff and convalescing soldiers, Wrexham Military Hospital (WREMA 85.270.8)

Wrexham Military Hospital – Arrival of wounded soldiers

Bersham Road cemetery – an unexpected final resting place for our Belgian hero (© Francis Frith)

Private Moses Jones, of the 2nd Battalion, R.W.F., writing to his mother from the front says: "It’s a dreadful sensation curled up in a trench, two feet, six inches wide, and six feet deep, listening to the shells bursting in all directions. But we make our situation as bright as possible with a puff of Woodbine and cracking jokes, and at the same time having a peep to see if the enemy is advancing under the cover of the artillery. We have had some wet nights, but are none the worse for it: mud up to our necks, the butts of our rifles clogging, and the voice of our commander shouting 'Keep up the fire!' It was kept up all the night, with our barrels red-hot... The tin of biscuits you sent is being used in the trench as a writing desk. I will write to all the kind friends when I return to the face of the earth from this mole-house."

FUSILIER’S LIFE IN A 'MOLEHOUSE'

(Wrexham Advertiser, 21.11.1914)

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The people of Wrexham and district have been anxiously awaiting the arrival of 100 wounded soldiers. They were fully expected on Thursday and it is evident that a change was made in the arrangements as the majority of soldiers who came on Sunday were in the trenches as late as Friday. The Red Cross train was found to contain 102 wounded Belgian soldiers of which a very large proportion, fully 60 or 70, were stretcher cases. The approaches to the station were crowded with onlookers who watched in solemn silence. Three motor buses belonging to the Wrexham Transport Company and 10 motor cars were waiting for the conveyance of the soldiers to the Hospital. The progress of the wounded through the streets to the Hospital was the occasion for repeated outbursts of cheering and those who were able to do so freely waved their acknowledgements. Most of the men were in deplorable condition. They had come straight from the trenches where many of them had been for several weeks without relief and their uniforms were mud be-spattered, torn to shreds in places and stained with blood. (Wrexham Advertiser, 7.11.1914)

CHRISTMAS GIFTS FOR SOLDIERS’ CHILDREN, ETC.

Johnny Basham, Champion boxer and Royal Welch Fusilier (1227)

THE MAYOR AND MAYORESS of Wrexham invite SUBSCRIPTIONS for the purpose of presenting Christmas Gifts, to the Children of the Soldiers and Sailors now serving with His Majesty’s Forces. Subscriptions should be sent to the Borough Treasurer at the earliest possible moment, so as to enable suitable gifts to be purchased for distribution on Christmas Eve. If the subscriptions exceed the amount required, the surplus will be utilised for providing comforts for Soldiers and Sailors. LAWSON TAYLOR, Town Clerk Guildhall, Wrexham 9th December, 1914 (Wrexham Advertiser, 12.12.1914)

PLEASE DO NOT REMOVE THIS NEWSPAPER FROM THE MUSEUM

down to be counted out. That is how Basham won his honours. He is a very worthy holder of the championship title. He is a class boxer and may be better still in the near future. On his return to the town, he was met by a large crowd at the G.W.R. station, who formed in procession, and headed by the band of the R.W.F. marched through the town to the Barracks. The hero of the hour was carried shoulder high through the streets, which were lined by a large cheering crowd.

(Wrexham Advertiser, 19.12.1914)

WREXHAM TELEGRAPH

A Little Wet Home in the Trench

I’ve a little wet home in the Trench, Where the rainstorms continually drench; There’s a dead cow close by, With her hoofs t’wards the sky And she gives off a beautiful stench. Underneath in the place of a floor There’s a mass of wet wood and some straw And the Jack Johnsons flare * Thro’ the rain sodden air Of my little wet home in the trench. There are snipers who keep on the go So you must keep your napper low, And their star shells at night Make a deuce of a light Which causes the language to flow, Then bully and biscuits we chew, For it is days since we tasted a stew But with shells dropping there, There’s no place to compare With my little wet home in the trench.

* Jack Johnson was the name given by British soldiers to describe the German 15cm artillery shell that caused such damage. Jack Johnson was the world heavyweight boxing champion at the time. (Wrexham Advertiser, 30.01.1915)

THE GREAT WAR – COMMEMORATIVE EDITION

Corporal Punishment in Schools. Coedpoeth Head Teacher sued for damages.

Noiseless Pleasure Fair Wanted

Alderman Jones pointed out that permission to hold a Christmas Pleasure Fair in the Beast Market had been granted on condition that satisfactory arrangements were made for the suppression of noises. Whilst out on Christmas afternoon he could hear nothing but the whistles and organs from the Beast Market and it was not fair to obtain permission on certain conditions and then violate them. Councillor Williams (Chairman of the market committee) said - This is the first complaint I have heard, but it is true that the place was let on condition no noise was made and I regret to hear the understanding has not been observed.

Councillor Rowland - In my opinion a fair is no good without noise.

Royal Welch Fusiliers about to leave Wrexham Central Station © Denbighshire Archives, DD/DM/358/15/4

Alderman Jones - The application was granted upon the distinct condition that no noises were made.

Councillor Rowland - The condition is an impossible one. Alderman Jones - The people applying ought to know whether they can conduct the fair without noise.

Mayor - Was the condition imposed by us? Deputy Town Clerk - It was.

Councillor Savage - I do not think the fair people consider it noise.

Mayor - There is nothing we can do about it this year but we will certainly bear it in mind for next year. (Wrexham Advertiser, 02.01.1915)

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The Death of Mr A. N. Palmer

©Denbighshire Archives, DD/G/3924

News from Holt and Farndon

Damson buds – these are already put forth, and should fine weather prevail, will develop into blossoms in April. Rain fell on Tuesday and was welcomed by the farmers and growers.

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Potatoes – owing to the cold weather, very small quantities of early potatoes of any sort have been set. (Wrexham Advertiser, 27.03.1915)

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Arrival of swallows – These welcome birds of various species have arrived in greater numbers than usual. Neither the cuckoo nor the corncrake have yet been heard. (Wrexham Advertiser, 01.05.1915)

Recruitment posters, Salop Road, Wrexham © Denbighshire Archives, DD/G/3917

We deeply regret to record the death of Mr A .N. Palmer, the historian of Wrexham and its neighbourhood, which took place early on Sunday morning at his residence. Mr Palmer throughout his life suffered from precarious health and at the start of the winter he suffered from an attack of influenza, he seemed to be on a fair way towards recovery when he developed pneumonia and pleurisy, under which he sank. Mr Palmer was born in Thetford the son of a successful coachbuilder. He was educated at Thetford Grammar School. After school he was apprenticed to a chemist in Bury St. Edmonds. He continued to study diligently and won one of the two Jacob Bell Scholarships awarded yearly, by the pharmaceutical society. He worked for a short while in Bloomsbury and then moved to Manchester where he started as analytical chemist. In 1878 he married Esther, the youngest daughter of Mr John Francis. Whilst in Manchester Mr Palmer threw himself into the social work carried out in connection with the Mosley St. Schools but in 1880 he moved to Wrexham as his health was adversely affected by the atmosphere of Manchester. He was initially employed as an analytical chemist by the now defunct Zoedone Company, leaving soon after to take up a similar position at Brymbo Steelworks who were establishing their laboratory. Later he became the chemist for J. Meredith Jones and Company’s Cambrian Leather Works, and conducted many scientific researches for the firm. His health, which had never been robust became more precarious, he retired from active analytical work, and confined himself to the historical researches and antiquarian pursuits for which he has now become famous. From his boyhood he had been imbued with a love of historical study, and he enthusiastically turned to the untouched field of research presented by the local history of Wrexham and its surroundings. He learnt enough Welsh to be able to read Welsh books with ease and converse with the people of the countryside in whom he delighted. His first work entitled ‘The Townfields of Wrexham in the reign of James I’ was followed by ‘Ancient Tenures in the Marches of Wales.’ It may be said of the man who was laid to rest in a Wrexham grave last week, that he was the man who was truly the discoverer of Ancient Wrexham. (Wrexham Advertiser, 13.03.1915)

© Denbighshire Archives, DD/G/3932

Christmas Day in the Trenches

Writing to friends in North Wales a man who is serving in the London Territorials states – We had a memorable Christmas day in our trench, we had a truce with the enemy from Christmas Eve until Boxing Day morning. Not a shot fired. The truce came about this way. The Germans started singing and lighting candles at 7.30 on Christmas Eve, and one of them challenged any one of us to go across. One of our fellows accepted the challenge and took a cake. That started the ball rolling. We then met half way to shake hands and exchange greetings. There were some dead Germans in the ditch in front of our trench. The dead had been trying to get to our outpost some time ago. We helped to bury them and I could have had a German helmet but I did not fancy taking it from a corpse. The Germans seem to be very nice chaps and said they were awfully sick of the War. We were in the trench nearly all day collecting souvenirs. (Wrexham Advertiser, 09.01.1915)

Wrexham Man’s Experience A deadly bullet

Private Sam Palmer of the 19th Infantry Brigade writes from the front to Mrs. Davies, Bright St. Wrexham. Just a line to let you know that I am well and happy. The trenches are in a very bad state due to the recent heavy rains. It is very bad in the trenches at night but it won’t be so bad when the fine weather comes. We get plenty of 'fa*gs' and if you know of anyone who sends them in Wrexham please thank them. Things are quiet here at present, bar the sniping that goes on all the time. The condition of the trenches was so bad that at first that we could not fire without exposing ourselves. Whilst standing in a group boiling some water to make a cup of tea, I was scraping the mud off a coat when a bullet went through a poor chap’s head, past me and through the coat I was scraping. But we got our own back after dark. (Wrexham Advertiser, 30.01.1915)

In engaging a servant the matter of references is very important and if tackled thoroughly an after disappointment can be avoided. Whatever the faults of a servant the reference should point these out clearly to the mistress about to engage her. Unless the faults are very serious the mistress will be willing to overlook them because house mistresses are willing to put up with a good deal nowadays. It is very annoying when servants are thoughtless, forgetful, careless and unpunctual, but there are worse faults and a willing spirit will go far to compensate. Before taking a servant into your house advises a housewife of experience – You should never be satisfied with a mere handwritten letter – many have been forged. Phone or call the former mistress and ask her personally as to the qualities good and bad of the girl and bear in mind in the case of a general servant even if she is not a good cook she can be taught.

Engaging a Servant

(Wrexham Advertiser, 16.01.1915)

PLEASE DO NOT REMOVE THIS NEWSPAPER FROM THE MUSEUM

At Wrexham County Court on Tuesday before his honour Judge Moss, Mary Ann Jones sued through her stepfather Charles Edwards, Red Lion, of Coedpoeth, H. Ellis Hughes, Headmaster of the Higher Standard School, Penygelli, for £10 damages, for injuries allegedly inflicted through excessive use of corporal punishment. Emily Edwards, wife of Charles Edwards and mother of Mary Ann, said that at about 8.45am on Monday, June 22nd, 1914, she sent her daughter to go to the post office to get change. The girl was detained at the Post office, and fearing that her daughter would be late for school, Mrs. Edwards went to meet her, took the change from her and sent her straight to school. On returning home from school Mary’s middle finger of her left hand was found to be bleeding and much swollen. This had occurred as Mary had been caned by Mr Hughes for being late. The hand was dressed with boracic lint by her mother. Whilst at school Mary had shown the wound to Mr Hughes who was quite indifferent and callous and told her not to bother and just bathe it. She was a particularly sharp and brilliant pupil, well behaved and this was the first time she had been caned. In spite of Mr and Mrs Edwards regularly dressing the finger the child became more poorly and a lump had developed on her left elbow. The following week the finger became worse and Mrs Edwards was obliged to seek the opinion of a Doctor. Before taking her daughter to the Doctor, Mrs Edwards thought it only fair to see the defendant. She told Mr Hughes he had over-punished her child and Mary’s condition was the result of it. She pointed out that the child had only been late twice during the previous quarter, upon which Mr Hughes called her a liar. She replied “Oh no, Mr Hughes I am only going by your own report.” She showed him the child’s finger and told him she would hold him responsible for the condition of the child, to which he remarked, “I am not responsible for anybody: you can do just what you like.” Charles Edwards, stepfather, an ex-Acting Sergeant of the Denbighshire Constabulary having retired after 26 years of service, said that prior to being caned the child was quite lively and regular in attendance, but afterwards her health was much affected. The Chairman of the managers of Penygelli School was called by the prosecution team and asked whether he thought the punishment was excessive. The judge intervened and said that is a matter for me to decide upon! For the defence, the evidence was that the Headmaster punished all children who were late for school and Mary knew this was a rule of the school. There was no evidence that the stroke Mary received was more severe than that given to the other children. Dr Vaughn Griffiths called by the defence said that the punishment sustained was severe but whether it was excessive, he declined to say. Mr Hughes, the Headmaster, had been prepared to pay for the Doctor’s charges initially, but on hearing that that the matter had been communicated to the authorities he went no further with the matter. His Honour in giving the Judgement said it was an unfortunate case to say the least of it all. It was generally accepted that Mary was an obedient and good child and there was nothing provocative in her behaviour. His Honour felt bound to say he thought the punishment was excessive, the finger had split and bled, and the child complained all afternoon about the pain and that the finger had to be poulticed later that day. The Judge said it might be that the Headmaster was unconscious of his own strength when caning Mary, or struck harder than intended. He would give him the credit of not contemplating the injury he inflicted, but he thought the punishment excessive. He could not associate the whole condition of the child’s health to the caning. It was stated she had adenoids and boils and sores showing she was run down in health. He allowed the father £2, which would amply repay him for any special expense he had been put to, and he awarded the child £5 for the suffering she had gone through. (Wrexham Advertiser, 13.02.1915 & 13.03.1915)

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WREXHAM TELEGRAPH

Christmas Day in the Workhouse

Christmas Day was observed in the Workhouse in the usual festive manner and nothing was wanting on the part of Mr and Mrs Thomas and the officials to make the day as happy and enjoyable as possible for the inmates under their care. After a substantial breakfast, service was held in the chapel. Dinner was partaken in the large dining room – which was beautifully decorated with evergreens, flags and mottoes. Dinner consisted of roast beef, vegetables, plum puddings and coffee. Gifts were made to the inmates of apples and oranges for all; tobacco for the men, tea and sugar for the women and sweets and biscuits for the children. The cost of these being defrayed by a fund subscribed to by the guardians.

THE GREAT WAR – COMMEMORATIVE EDITION

Wrexham Women at Work

Correspondence has taken place between Councillor Huw T. Richards, Chairman of the Pontypridd Society, and the Army Council with respect to complaints made by Welshmen on active service being refused permission to write home in the Welsh language. A few days ago Mr. Richards communicated with Lord Kitchener, stating that his son, who is ‘somewhere in France’ wrote a postcard in Welsh, he was called before the regimental censor and told to write in English, otherwise it could not be passed. He was further informed that Welsh was not allowed to be written as they had no-one who understood the language to censor it. Mr. Richards received the following reply from the War office:‘I am commanded by the Army Council… to inform you that in future your son…will be at liberty to conduct his correspondence in Welsh if he desires to do so. Sir Jesse Herbert, secretary to the Parliamentary Recruiting Committee, states that proper arrangements have been made for dealing with all such communications.

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(Wrexham Advertiser, 02.01.1915)

Determined to Enlist

Whilst Rhos young men are sometimes twitted with indifference regarding the ‘call to arms’, a young man named George Jarvis has shown exceptional determination. Having been rejected at the Rhos and District recruiting office owing to a lack of inches, he determined to join the Bantam Battalion that is being formed at Birkenhead. Being short of the cash to pay his fare, Jarvis walked the whole distance, he left Rhos at midnight arriving in Birkenhead at 11am the next morning. His determination was rewarded and he was pronounced fit and accepted. He is now a Soldier of the King and is the only representative of Rhos in the Bantam Battalion. (Wrexham Advertiser, 09.01.1915)

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Rhos Territorials Killed in Action

In the early part of last week reports were freely circulated that a number of Rhos Territorials had sacrificed their lives in the recent severe fighting. Unfortunately this proved to be correct. On Thursday last official communications were received by the families of the Rhos Company that the following men had lost their lives: Corporal Robert Parry, who was married with three children; Private Edward Evans who leaves a wife and two children; Private William Fail who also leaves a wife and two children; Private John Griffiths and Lance Corporal Albert Prescott. (Wrexham Advertiser, 13.02.1915)

Tram conductors, Wrexham & District Electric Tram Co., 1915–18 (WREMA 90.28.560)

How Women Can Help

For the purpose of discussing women’s work during and after the war, a public meeting under the auspices of the Wrexham Women’s Suffrage Society, was held at the Free Library in Wrexham, on Friday evening and was largely attended. The Mayoress presided and in her opening remarks, stated that in the working women of Wrexham, they had got material of a superior kind. No body of women could have worked with greater efficiency and enthusiasm than the Wrexham ladies had. She had been privileged to work with them in many directions and more loyalty and energy could not be found in any town of its size in Great Britain. The Wrexham organisations were simply splendid. Early in the campaign they were met with the industrial problem and that brought forward the women’s question. Meetings were held which were very enthusiastic and satisfactory in the offers of help. Mr Hawkins, the tram manager, had taken an interest in the movement, and it had been agreed to employ women as conductors on the tram cars and omnibuses. Already

women had offered to go on that duty. They might think it would be rough work, say on a Saturday night, but the Chief of Police, who had taken a deep interest in the work, had placed his force entirely at their disposal, and if there was any mischief it would be handled completely by the police. Every effort would be made to ensure the women received respect, even from a drunken man. It was stated that in the aftermath of war the country must be prepared for a casualty list of over 250,000 and probably over a million permanently incapacitated. For a generation at least women must be prepared to be the breadwinners. It was understood that that the women of Gt. Britain would do what they could for the men who had stood between them and the evils that had fallen the women of Belgium. It was suggested the present was a splendid opportunity for women to fit themselves for occupations after the war. Dr Katherine Drinkwater pointed out various vocations in which women were urgently needed. (Wrexham Advertiser, 26.06.1915)

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The Lusitania Disaster A Coedpoeth Victim

The grave news that a well-known Coedpoeth man, Mr Thomas Williams, was among the victims of the Lusitania that sunk off the coast of Ireland last Friday have been verified. On Monday, May 3rd, Mrs Williams received a letter from her husband, to the effect that he was starting from New York on the Lusitania on May 1st, and desiring her to meet him at Liverpool. She prepared to comply with his request, and on Friday sent her brother to Wrexham to enquire what time the ship was expected to arrive. He returned with the staggering and tragic intelligence that the Lusitania had fallen victim to a German submarine attack. The anxious relatives instituted every possible inquiry. The following letter was received from the Cunard Steamship Co. Ltd. “With reference to your inquiry from our agent in Wrexham, we have to advise you that the name of Thomas Williams appears on the list of third class passengers from New York on the Lusitania. We are sorry that we have no further news of him.” As no further news was heard of him there was little doubt that he perished. Mr Williams’ son who enlisted with the R.W.F. soon after the outbreak of War is now a prisoner in Germany. (Wrexham Advertiser, 08.05.1915)

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Group photograph, Official christening of the Borough of Wrexham’s first motorized fire engine, 1915 © Denbighshire Archives, DD/G/2262

Wrexham’s New Motor Fire Engine Inauguration Ceremony

Yesterday (Friday) the new Motor Fire Engine which, the Wrexham Corporation has purchased, was named and its capacities exhibited. The new engine has an exceedingly fine appearance. It is a four-cylinder engine of 75 B.H.P, and has a 500 gallon turbine with hose tender combined. Fitted with a 40 gallon fire-aid equipment on the Morris system, it is admirably adapted for dealing with small fires, while it carries a 20 foot Ajax sliding fire escape. The machine is capable of carrying 14 men, and no less than 2,000 feet of hose, in addition to all the usual appurtenances of a modern fire brigade. All the lamps are simultaneously lit from the same switch on the dashboard and the current is generated by an electric dynamo which is also fitted. Undoubtedly one of the chief features of the engine is the absence of complicated mechanism, for every operation connected with it is simplicity itself. The chassis is specially designed and constructed for fire brigade work, and the great strength of the frame work, which has steel channel sides is very noticeable. The size of the engine cylinders, and the amount of reserve power of the engine makes it possible to propel the machine at practically any

Soldiers’ Letters Wrexham officer Welsh Language Permitted Decorated by Home Office Sanction His Majesty

speed, while it experiences no difficulty whatever in taking the steepest gradients found on any public roads. The power of the machine can be imagined from the fact that it is capable of delivering 500 gallons of water each minute at a pump pressure of 120lbs. to the square inch, and 600 gallons a minute at a pump pressure of 100lbs. A great point in the new engine is its capacity to deal with small fires. Upon arrival at a fire, the fireman can obtain instantaneously a small stream that will extinguish a very considerable fire. The engine was named in front of the Guildhall by Miss Elsie Taylor, daughter of Councillor T. Buchanan Taylor, Chairman of the Watch Committee of the Wrexham Corporation which Committee has charge of the Fire Brigade. The engine was named ‘Maud Elsie’, Miss Taylor’s own name and Miss Taylor very gracefully named the engine and expressed her best wishes for its future use. Mr. Taylor, on his daughter’s behalf, thanked the Corporation for the compliment paid to Miss Taylor in asking her to name the engine after her own name. He believed the engine would give satisfaction and prove of great use. It had been produced by a firm which came from a Welsh stock. (Wrexham Advertiser, 10.04.1915)

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(Wrexham Advertiser, 08.05.1915)

Captain A. H. Soames, of the Royal Flying Corps, had the honour of being received by the King on Thursday, when his Majesty decorated him with the Military Cross, awarded to him for his distinguished services in the present war. Captain Soames is the eldest son of Mr. and Mrs. Frederick Soames, of Bryn Estyn, Wrexham. (Wrexham Advertiser, 1915)

Welsh Fusiliers in Germany An Appeal

We have received a letter from Pte. R. Hanks, Royal Welsh Fusiliers, a prisoner of war in Germany, asking us to appeal for games, eatables and cigarettes for R.W.F. prisoners in Alltdamm. He states that “Anything will be acceptable in these hard times, and should any of your readers be kind enough to send parcels, I will try to thank each one by post-card.” (Wrexham Advertiser, 1915)

A Bradley Soldier’s Letter R.W.F and the recent fighting

A letter giving a graphic and interesting account of the recent severe fighting in which the Royal Welch Fusiliers participated with such valour, though at heavy cost, was received last week by Mrs Louisa Edwards, Beales Cottages, Bradley from her husband Mr Llew Edwards. In the letter which is dated May 19th, Mr Edwards after stating he was alright, proceeds “I have thanked God for being so, above once, this last three or four days. We had a terrible big battle last Sunday and Monday, but I have pulled through it; but there have been a big lot of our chaps killed and wounded. I shall never forget it, for it was terrible. The chaps were dropping around me shot dead, and wounded. I hope that when you and the children go to bed at night that you pray for me. I thought it was all over with me, but I suppose God was looking after me. The Germans won’t forget the R.W.F for we mowed them down like skittles. The General said he could not praise us enough for our splendid work. We have gone up the country today (Wednesday) for a rest, which I think we can do with. ‘Tom the Sands’ had his two shin bones broken with shell fire and Dai Evans’ lad from Gwersyllt got wounded; but I can’t say what became of Tom Tyler; he is missing I believe. There were me and Sam Crewe and Jack Lewis from the ‘Croppy’ pulled through without a scar, but the sights I saw I shall never forget. The battlefield was covered with dead and wounded men, but we kept on going and the Germans kept running away, but there was a terrible lot of Germans killed and wounded. Well we made the charge at four in the morning and by half past the R.W.Fus had taken three rows of trenches off the Germans. They will never forget us. Their bullets were flying around us like hailstorms, but on we went, and our chaps that fell wounded were shouting ‘Go on lads let them have it!’, but my word, Tommy Atkins does not want much telling to go when he gets warm. Lou, I must close for this time as I am tired after a long march, but will write again soon.” (Wrexham Advertiser, 05.06.1915)

(Wrexham Archives, 1061-64)

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Patriotic postcards, 1914/15 (1049/67)

WREXHAM TELEGRAPH

THE GREAT WAR – COMMEMORATIVE EDITION

Wrexham and the Making of Shells

Munitions workers and mortar shells, Wrexham, 1915–18 (WREMA 91.34.5)

The making of munitions, Wrexham, 1915–18 (WREMA 91.34.14)

Shell Making in Wrexham

Following a further meeting re:- manufacture of munitions in Wrexham it has been proposed and accepted by the Munitions Committee for the initiation and management of a shell factory at the Willow Rd., Depot, Wrexham. It was also agreed that a factory inspector be co-opted on to the Munitions Committee, and that a lathe, drilling and grinding machine be purchased at the cost of £275. (Wrexham Advertiser, 10.07.1915)

Waifs and Strays Society War teaches the value of child life

Capt. Eric Evans, 4RWF, killed in action 10.05.1915, aged 23, Grove Park County School for Boys Roll of Honour © Denbighshire Archives, DD/ED/GS/11/84

John Philip Price, killed in action 16.05.1915, aged 23, Grove Park County School for Boys Roll of Honour © Denbighshire Archives, DD/ED/GS/11/84

A meeting was convened on Thursday to discuss the progress that has been made in connection with the movement which has for its object the making of war munitions in Wrexham. To get the largest output of shells, it is proposed that all the lathes and drills in the locality should be obtained and brought together under one roof, and the fullest use made of them. It was thought that the owners of these machines would be extremely willing to lend them, for they recognise the urgent need there is to produce large quantities of munitions, and it would be a patriotic way to help King and country. When the machinery is installed it is essential to keep it going to the fullest extent. It is encouraging to see that in various parts of the country a hearty response is being made to the earnest appeals of Mr Lloyd George, Minister of Munitions. An appeal is being made for an auxiliary army of munitions workers. At about two hundred centres in the country a seven days campaign was opened “Your skill is needed. Shot and shell, ships and guns, munitions of war of every kind are required. Your brothers – your pals – your fellow countrymen – are fighting for you, for King, for Empire. They are fit and ready. Skill, courage and heroism are theirs, deserving the full support of the whole nation behind them. They must be supplied with munitions – it is urgent and imperative – and YOU can help to supply them.”

The Charge of the Royal Welsh Wrexham Man’s Vivid Description

Pte. J. Bevan, 4913, Royal Welsh Fusiliers, writing to his mother, Mrs E. Bevan, 42, Beast Market, Wrexham says:-

Dear Mother – Just a few words to let you know that my wound is not serious. When I think of that awful morning I cannot but wonder how I came off so lucky. It was not fighting it was murder. Our men fought like heroes, undaunted by the terrible fire from the German rifles and maxims. I see them in my mind’s eye, advancing in two’s and three’s stumbling over the bodies of their dead comrades – who lay all too plentiful on the field, their only objective, their only desire to get at grips with the Germans. I could write a dozen pages about their heroism, but I will not as it can hardly be described on paper. I will instead tell you of myself. It was breaking day when we had the order to attack and I must admit I was feeling far from brave, however, there was no holding back. It had to be done. I climbed over the parapet and dropped the other side and made for the German trench at a steady run. Much to my surprise I got there unhurt, although my colleagues were falling on either side. The first trench reached, we now had to get to the second, but I had hardly taken three paces before I felt an awful bang in my left shoulder and I dropped. My chum, a lad I was fond of who was following me was also hit and dropped by my side, but as he was dropping he was hit again and died instantly. His dead body shielded me or I should have been riddled. When our chaps had advanced further I was able to get out of it and was taken to hospital. Will finish now from your loving son – Bromley. (Wrexham Advertiser, 1915)

(Wrexham Advertiser, 26.06.1915)

The Bishop of Bangor, who presided on Monday afternoon, at the annual meeting of the Waifs and Strays Society said that a feeling seemed to spreading that children seemed to be an encumbrance, almost a misfortune, causing privations to their parents of comfort, of pleasure and of luxury. Children were often seen as a burden to the State generally. How to get rid of superfluous population was an important economic problem of the day. But the War has taught us to look at them in a different light. It had been found that the great strength of Germany was its great population. If France had had an equal population to Germany she would have been able to engage her enemy on equal terms without our assistance, and with our assistance would have been able to bring a preponderance of numbers to bear that Germany would now be invaded, and would probably have asked for peace long ago. (Wrexham Advertiser, 26.06.1915)

Embroidered Christmas card, made in France, 1914–17 (WREMA 85.270.29)

An animated discussion arose on a resolution by the House Committee to substitute margarine for butter in the diet of the paupers in the Workhouse. Mr T. Taylor expressed his entire disagreement with the suggestion to substitute margarine for butter; he said the residents received six to seven ounces of butter per week and the bread was three-quarters of an inch thick and it would take a microscope to spot the butter. There were fewer inmates than a year ago and Mr. Taylor hoped that if economies were to be made it would not be at the expense of the paupers. A heated discussion followed where the salaries of the officials at the workhouse were discussed, and questions asked whether these had been excessive. It was decided that for the present time butter should be kept on the table.

Margarine v. Butter

Medical Inspection of Wrexham Schoolchildren The dangers of bad teeth

In his annual report on the medical inspection of schoolchildren at Wrexham, Dr T.W. Jones furnishes information as to the physical condition of 1,171 who were examined during the year 1914. Decay of the teeth, he observed was by far the most widespread of all the defects that the children suffered; the importance of attending to their children’s teeth was not sufficiently appreciated by their parents. Only 18.7% of the children had sound teeth. It was suggested that extensive dental disease of this nature favoured the development of many ailments in later life through the constant absorption of poisonous material and this tended to weaken the natural powers of resistance in the body. Arrangements had been made at the school clinic, lately established near the Victoria School to deal more especially with the period of life at

which the permanent teeth appear. One hundred and eighteen children were found to have defective vision. Seventy eight children, or 6.66% were noted as being of sub-normal nutrition, the nutrition of the other children was normal or excellent. The adoption of the Education (Provision of Meals) Act by the Authority had had a beneficial effect on the children whose sub-normal condition had been due to a lack of food. The importance of ensuring schoolchildren’s health were emphasised by Professor Darroch “It is apparent that there is a gradual awakening of the nation to the fact that the care of the physical nature of the child during the school period is of fundamental importance from the point of view of the future welfare of the nation.”

(Wrexham Advertiser, 27.03.1915)

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(Wrexham Advertiser, 28.08.1915)

Entertainment at the Empire Week commencing June 28th 1915

Excellent pictures are being shown this week. The programme consists of pictures, including “Two Acts of True Life”, this is the portrayal of German brutality to a family of Belgians and will be lectured upon by M. Fermin De Moll, who lost an arm in saving a girl. The presence of Ray Western, a fine soprano vocalist, and George Young, a clever blind concertina soloist and musician, assisted by Mrs. George Young, serves to enhance further an extremely fine programme. (Wrexham Advertiser, 26.06.1915)

(Wrexham Archives, 1049/31-37)

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WREXHAM TELEGRAPH

Christmas at the Barracks

Christmas Day was celebrated at the Barracks with the usual festivities. Dinner was served in the Wynnstay Block, which had been beautifully decorated – indeed it was the opinion of experienced officers and others who saw the work of the men that never had they seen anything more tasteful and pretty. About 100 men sat down to a well-served and

THE GREAT WAR – COMMEMORATIVE EDITION excellently cooked meal, consisting of turkey with bread sauce, pork with apple sauce, boiled ham, plum pudding, mince pies and sweets. After dinner, tobacco, cigarettes and liquid refreshments were served. During dinner the King’s message to the troops was read to the men. There was a sing-song until tea and after that a very successful smoking concert. Special entertainment was also provided for the men in the hospital, where, it is agreeable to learn, the number is small.

(Wrexham Advertiser, 01.01.1916)

Wrexham soldier’s experiences in Gallipoli

Writing from the Tropical School Military Hospital, Liverpool, Co Sgt-Major Bert Davies, a well-known Wrexham printer says “I have been here a week and I don’t know how long I shall be here yet, as I am still very shaky. I have been suffering from the effects of frost-bitten feet and exposure to cold. We had a terrible time during the last few days I was in Gallipoli. We were flooded out of our trenches and lost all my

possessions. I don’t think I ever want to see it rain like it did that night. The lightning was awful and it was pitch dark, but by the morning the water had gone down and we were able to return to the trenches, which still contained 2 feet of water. To make things more lively it started to freeze and snow and the next day we were nothing but walking lumps of clay. I could scarcely walk, my feet, as well as my fingers, were awful. I

was sent to hospital and there to a hospital ship, where we were made very comfortable. We were transferred to another hospital ship and were brought back to Old England, arriving a little over a week ago. I am glad to say I am getting on very well, and hope to be fit again very soon. I suppose the biggest part of the boys have joined the army now.” (Wrexham Advertiser, 22.01.1916)

Hightown Barracks (RWF Depot), Wrexham (WREMA 90.28.44.1)

Dining Hall, RWF Depot, Wrexham (WREMA 90.28.442)

Fashion and Things Feminine – Three Belgian Recipes

The Belgian women are very good cooks and some of their cooking is worth noting. The following, for instance, has been given to us by a little Belgian housewife, whose cookery is most excellent. The weights stated are sometimes rather vague (I give them in her own words) but the recipes on the whole, are sufficiently definite to be worth passing on. There follows recipes for Currant Bread and Rabbit Pate but I’ll detail here the recipe for Speculation Biscuits. These biscuits are very nice for afternoon tea. The recipe is 5 cupfuls of flour, 3 cupfuls of brown sugar, quarter pound of butter and margarine, one egg, half a cupful of cold water, a pinch of cinnamon, a teaspoonful of bicarbonate of soda. Mix all ingredients overnight and the following day make up the mixture into flat biscuits and bake in a moderate oven til cooked. The biscuits should be the same as gingerbread nuts, or maybe somewhat larger, if preferred. (Wrexham Advertiser, 08.01.1916)

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In a letter to his wife, Pte S Shone, who is serving at the front with the 15th Service Battalion, RWF says: ‘While coming up country by train, another man and myself were in charge of some horses in a van. Two of them had colic and got on to the floor, upsetting the others. One of them plunged forward knocking me out on to the line, the horse following. No one in the train knew it had happened until it arrived at its destination, some 15 or 20 miles away. The train was travelling at a good speed. It happened at 10 o’clock at night, the second night after we landed in France. As luck had it, I fell clear of the metals. When I came to I saw a man with a lamp near the railway. I shouted and he came and took me to his house. His wife washed my face. They were French people and treated me very kindly. They afterwards took me to the nearest station, two miles away and handed me over to a British Officer. I lost the Battalion for 2 days, but I found them again after a lot of travelling about. It was a terrible experience but thank God I am nearly alright again. I was only in the hospital a day and a night.’

Wrexham Soldier’s Serious Accident

(Wrexham Advertiser, 15.01.1916)

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A housewife’s recipe for doughnuts made with potatoes is worth passing on. The ingredients are 4 tablespoonfuls of butter, one cupful each of mashed potatoes, milk and sugar, two eggs, 3 teaspoonfuls of baking powder, flour enough to make all into a soft dough and a flavouring of any spices preferred. Cream the butter, add the sugar, the eggs (beaten) and the potatoes; then add the milk and sift in the dry ingredients; turn the dough out on a floured board, pat and roll it into a slab half-an-inch thick and cut out rings of the size of the top of an egg-cup or larger. Then fry the doughnuts in boiling fat.

Doughnuts made with Potatoes

(Wrexham Advertiser, 28.10.1916)

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Bryn Garden Housing Scheme The Inauguration

On Monday the inauguration of the first housing scheme undertaken by the Wrexham Rural District Council took place at Bryn Gardens, the new suburb of Rhos, when a memorial stone was unveiled. The scheme designed by the Council Engineer, originally contemplated the erection of 66 houses on the excellent site which overlooks Johnstown and the great Cheshire Plain. It is high above the level of the surrounding country and commands a view which is extremely fine. Owing to the war, the original number of houses has been reduced and the portion of the scheme which was inaugurated on Monday represented 22 neat and well-designed workman’s dwellings. All have excellent kitchens and some have a parlour and kitchen. All save four have a bath in the back kitchen, which, when not in use, is covered and so acts as a table. Boilers for washing are provided and in the yard is a coalhouse and the usual offices. (Wrexham Advertiser, 15.01.1916)

Wrexham Gentleman’s Visit to the Front Interesting Interview

A small party of representatives of the Lancashire, Cheshire and North and South Wales districts of the Western Command – comprised of gentlemen who have rendered signal service to their country in the matter of recruiting – has paid a visit to the battlefield of France. The only representative of the 23rd Area Command was Mr A Seymour-Jones of Wrexham, whose indefatigable efforts in connection with recruiting in Denbighshire are so well known. Mr Seymour-Jones has courteously consented to relate a few of his impressions and experiences. “Our first visit to the trenches was absolutely unique. We arrived on the far south of the British lines when the French had lost – through gassing – a portion of their front line. A terrific bombardment, resembling a continuous roll of thunder, was proceeding at the time and it is now known that the Germans suffered greater losses in that engagement than they did at the battle of Loos. Needless to say it was an experience I shall never forget. Probably owing to our curiosity on endeavouring to see over the trenches we were evidently spotted, with the result that the Germans fired several “sausage” or trench bombs (which are about 30 inches in length) in our direction. The gyrations of the “sausage” in its flight struck me as very curious and I was reminded very forcibly of the jerky, twisting movement of the trout on the end of a line on being lifted out of the water. We ducked and sheltered as well as we could and fortunately no-one was hurt. We were able to witness the various methods of trench warfare – the rifle grenade, trench bombs, hand grenades, catapult bombs etc. and we visited all the headquarters and travelled about 5 miles of trenches. Before leaving, the British artillery, including the “heavies” was brought into action and we had the satisfaction of knowing that the trench from which the “sausages” had come was blown to atoms, a wonderful example of the accuracy of our fire. We were able to visit the battlefields on which the 4th RWF have performed so valorously and I can only describe that portion of the country as one of complete desolation. Woods had been absolutely mown down by shells and houses and farms were in ruins, but one thing which struck us as very remarkable was the large number of huge crosses containing the figure of the Crucified Christ – to be seen in many of the crossroads in France – which remained intact despite the fact that adjoining buildings were completely demolished. The most memorable event we participated in was a review of the Welsh Army under General Owen Phillips by Mr Lloyd George and ourselves within 2 miles of the trenches. Amid the roar of the cannon and the “rip” of the machine gun these brave chaps, just out of the trenches, marched past to the martial strains of “The Men of Harlech,” played by a brass band. Small wonder is it that the sight and the whole surroundings caused a lump to rise in our throats. The cheeriest optimism seemed to pervade the whole battle line and all the men I spoke to were absolutely confident of victory, but concluded with the inevitable remark ‘But when are the others coming?’ (Wrexham Advertiser, 19.02.1916)

(WREMA 84.90.9)

The following poem has been written by Pte. Albert Jones of Coedpoeth at the front:

POEM FROM THE TRENCHES

“SING ME TO SLEEP” Sing me to sleep where the bullets fall, Let me forget the world and all; Damps is my dug-out, cold are my feet; Nothing but ‘bully’ and biscuits to eat.

Sing me to sleep in some old shed A dozen rat-holes around my head Stretched out upon my waterproof Dodging the raindrops that fall from the roof.

Far, far from Ypres, I long to be, Where German snipers can’t ‘pot’ at me; Think of me crouching where worms do creep; Waiting the sergeant to sing me to sleep. PTE. ALBERT JONES (Y Golchwr) 2nd Batt. R.W.F. “Somewhere in France” (Wrexham Advertiser, 29.01.1916)

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©Denbighshire Archives, DD/G/3924

WREXHAM TELEGRAPH

THE GREAT WAR – COMMEMORATIVE EDITION

The Observer Abroad

The interesting discovery has been made that the fighting man has a bigger brain – if the size of the head is any criterion – than the man who stays at home. The shrinkage in the size of hats has reached its maximum at the present and a local clothier tells me that it is general throughout the country. The relationship between the size of the hat and brainpower opens an interesting point and the question whether a man chooses to march along the line of duty because he had a bigger brain or whether the other men in possession of a smaller, though finer, brain was able to perceive greater advantages in staying at home, is open to discussion.

R

(Wrexham Advertiser, 03.06.1916)

A correspondent writes “May I venture to ask you to make a suggestion. As you are aware at the close of all entertainments, picture shows etc. ‘God Save the King’ is played. In very many instances, the first note is a signal to the audience to put on coat, cloak and hat and move to the doors. I think we should stand whilst it is being played. It is a bit of a patriotic ritual we should all observe. At the picture shows a message on the screen would be useful. The children are probably taught at school what to do, but adults and children need reminding. Perhaps those in authority will take the hint.

National Anthem

R Letter from the front

(Wrexham Advertiser, 28.10.1916)

One of our local residents, signing himself “Tommy Atkins” * sends me the following letter from the front:On behalf of myself and other Wrexham fellows I would be very pleased if you would publish the following: Well, sir, some people may think that we don’t see any football out here. But we do. We have the team of all talents. George Ground, goal; Tom Sandbag (who never gives an inch of ground) and Gilbert Barbed Wire (a good tackler), backs; Starlight (who enlightens the players), Billy Machine (a good feeder) and Fred Sniper (who never misses a chance), half backs; Billy Rifle (always potting at goal), Joe Whizz Bang, Bob Grenade (who is dangerous at close quarters), Walter Bayonet and Jack Shrapnel, forwards. Any chap wishing to see the 4th Batt RWF v Krupps, call at the Administrative Centre, Poyser St, Wrexham, or at any Recruiting Office, where you will get a suit of khaki, a bob and a free pass to enter the football field in Flanders. (Wrexham Advertiser, 15.01.1916)

Appalling Bomb Tragedy at Moss

Four killed, three injured

A shocking accident occurred at Moss on Thursday resulting in a child being killed outright and in six other persons being terribly injured, three of whom subsequently died. It appears that Pte Bagnall, 4th RWF, 2 Red Lion Cottages, Moss, who returned home from the front on Monday after 18 months service, was cleaning an unexploded German fuse shell, which he had brought with him as a souvenir. Six persons were in the house: his wife, Mary, daughter, Sarah, aged 2, a niece, Violet Williams, aged 7 and sister-in-law, Mrs Sarah Roberts with her 2 children, Mary and Ethel, aged 5 and 15 months. The shell slipped from his hand on to the floor and exploded with terrific force. Ethel, who was sitting on her mother’s knee, was blown through the door into the yard and died almost immediately. The remaining six received shocking injuries and most of the contents of the room were smashed to atoms. The reports of the explosion reported through the Moss Valley and the crowd of people who speedily rushed to the scene beheld a sickening scene of mangled limbs among the debris.

During the evening, two deaths took place in the Infirmary, the victims being Violet Williams and daughter, Sarah. Pte Bagnall lost one leg and the other may have to be amputated. Subsequently (Friday) Mary Roberts succumbed to her injuries. Mrs Roberts has lost both legs and Mrs Bagnall, the whole of one foot and half the other. The house is a chamber cottage, with a living room and bedroom on the ground floor, immediately above are two rooms which constitute another chamber dwelling and above these are another two rooms belonging to the Red Lion Inn. The window of the kitchen, in which the accident occurred, was completely blown out. It was exceedingly fortunate that the number of victims was not greater than it actually proved to be. At the time of the accident, the little son of Mrs Roberts was standing in the doorway eating a piece of bread and butter and the noise of the falling bomb caused him to lurch forward suddenly, clear of the entrance. He was immediately under the window outside, when it was shattered and he probably owes his life to his smallness of stature. Mrs Hughes, the occupant of the room above, had an exceedingly narrow escape, a piece of shell penetrated the flooring, missing her face by a hair’s breadth. The fragment passed through the ceiling into the room of the Red Lion, where the daughter of the licensee also marvellously escaped injury. The shell penetrated the ceiling of this room also and carried away a couple of slates in the roof.

(Wrexham Advertiser, 11.03.1916)

* Tommy Atkins was the name used in official documents to describe a private in the British Army. Whether a local resident actually wrote the letter or was even a soldier on active service is open to question.

R

It will be noticed that many of the soldiers walking about our streets wear differently shaped pieces of blue cloth on each arm just below the epaulette. These badges, which have puzzled the public a good deal are simply classification marks given by doctors. Each soldier is examined by a medical board and placed into one of five classes according to his progress in recovery from wounds or illness. A whole battalion can be paraded in its classes, showing at once the various stages of fitness of the men. It may be interesting to give the meaning of the marks:- Oblong: Fit for active service. Triangle: Garrison duty abroad. Diamond: Home service only. Circle: Unclassified for further treatment. Square: Discharged. The vertical gold stripe worn by the wounded soldier to distinguish him from the home service man is now very much in evidence. The number of stripes worn indicates not, as many believe, the number of wounds received, but the number of times the wearer has been sent home with wounds. I am told these stripes are purchased by the Tommies themselves. If this is so, then it is quite conceivable that they may be worn by men not entitled to them. I do not say they are, but as a safeguard they should be issued by the military authorities alone.

Soldiers’ Badge of Fitness

(Wrexham Advertiser, 19.08.1916)

Wrexham Borough Tribunal – Conscientious Objectors

Robert Roberts BSc aged 28 of 45 Princess Street, schoolteacher, claimed absolute exemption as far as military service of any kind was concerned for the following reasons: “War is organised murder which I could neither approve of nor participate in without being criminally guilty before God. War is a flat contradiction of the teaching of Jesus Christ. True patriotism is working for the highest national good, educating the young does that.” The chairman of the board and the Military representative then asked a series of questions of the applicant. The applicant was a Baptist and followed the teachings of Christ. Supposing you saw a wounded soldier lying by the road, would you raise finger to help him – I would. Supposing two men came along and the life of another man was threatened and by a simple action on your part you saved that life, even though by it you destroyed one of the other two? - That would only be killing one to save another. But there may be justice on one side and injustice on the other. We contend that this war is a just war and that if we had not undertaken it, we should have gone down in the eyes of the world and her sons for all times would have been ashamed of her. Don’t you think it is up to you to protect your country? – I am doing my duty to my country by doing what I consider according to my conscience to be national work. The applicant later made it clear he objected to doing anything connected with the war machine, including digging trenches, but would dig trenches for the Corporation for the defence of the town if thought necessary. What is the difference between digging a trench for your country in France and digging a trench, say in Rhostyllen? I have been unable to understand from the beginning of the war, how digging a trench in France will save this country. The tribunal decided to exempt the applicant from combatant service, but not from non-combatant service. The applicant intimated he would appeal against the decision. (Wrexham Advertiser, 18.03.1916)

With the Welshmen to Berlin On the road in stricken Flanders There’s a place that’s vacant still There’s a rifle lying silent There’s a uniform to fill Those at home will hate to lose you But the march will soon begin On the road through stricken Belgium With the Welshmen to Berlin

The Military Service Act – Local Tribunal at Wrexham

The first meeting of the Local Tribunal for the Borough of Wrexham under the new regulations was held at the Guildhall last (Friday) evening. The Clerk explained there was no question of postponement to later Groups. Any exemptions granted must be temporary, conditional or absolute. An application was made in respect of a clerk who was employed in the preparation of income taxes, land taxes and house duty assessments for total exemption on the ground that he was indispensable. The court mused whether this would be an advantage (Laughter). His employer had discussed the possibility of a substitute with his staff and they were at a loss to know what would happen if he went. If he went it would impose terrific burdens on other people. A temporary exemption

of 4 months was granted. An application was made in respect of a machine hand at Messrs Aston’s Manufacturing Works, Johnstown, on the ground that he was the sole support of his mother, who was a widow. Applicant said he earned 23s per week and gave his mother £1 of it. He had been the support of the home for 12 years and if he were called up he believed it would mean a breakdown in his mother’s health. The tribunal replied that his mother would be better off with the War Office allowance. The applicant had no personal objection to becoming a soldier. A three months exemption was granted. Several other cases were heard and various periods of exemption were granted. The Tribunal sat from 6.30pm to 11pm.

(Wrexham Advertiser, 19.02.1916)

Wrexham District Military Service Tribunal © Denbighshire Archives, DD/DM/343/35

EDITORIAL The Holidays

It is difficult to imagine that a single British workman can be found to turn a deaf ear to the earnest appeal of Mr Lloyd George to abstain from taking a holiday during the coming Whitsuntide. Hard workers though they are, it is absurd to think their lot comparable to the gallant fellows at the front. Their daily tasks concluded, they can return to their homes in peace and comfort under remunerative conditions they have never before experienced, whilst their brothers are liable at any moment to be blown to atoms. A little cross may mark the spot where some poor brother is sleeping his last sleep having given his all to his native land. To think that this brother may be living today in the full vigour of young manhood but for an extra quarter of an hour not put in at the lathe by the ammunition worker at home, is well-nigh unendurable. Men of Britain arise and shake off your lethargy and toil on every minute available. This is no time for laying down tools and resting. (Wrexham Advertiser, 03.06.1916)

Wrexham Board of Guardians – The Margarine Question

There was an animated discussion on a resolution moved by Mrs Fenwick “That the best quality margarine be substituted for butter in the diets of the inmates of the Workhouse”. She said that when a similar resolution was moved some months ago, she stood against it, but she did not realise then what price the butter would reach, nor did she realise how many of the ratepayers – in large and small houses – used margarine. In discussion it was pointed out that they had to economise and that it was impossible to detect it from butter. (Cries of “No, no.”) It was argued that the use of margarine would mean only £43 a year of saving and that they were going to economise at the expense of the poor people who were unfortunate in life. It meant taxing the poor people whose only luxury in life was good, wholesome bread and butter. One member advised that they were using margarine at the County Asylum, which earned the rejoinder “They do not know what they eat there.” After much discussion, the resolution was defeated by 20 votes to 18. (Wrexham Advertiser, 26.02.1916)

In your home securely resting Are you there content to stay While the others guard your honour While the Germans toast ”The Day” For your King and country need you And we want to count you in On the road through stricken Belgium With the Welshmen to Berlin When at length the foe is vanquished When the boys come home at last Won’t you wish that you had listened Ere Old England’s need had passed But the gate of manhood opens You your part can still begin On the road through stricken Belgium With the Welshmen to Berlin In the lonely wayside graveyards Sleep the boys whose work is done Don’t you hear the voices calling To complete the work begun There are ghostly fingers beckoning There are victories yet to win On the road through stricken Belgium With the Welshmen to Berlin When from Mons they fought each footstep When their lips with pain were dumb ‘Twas their hopes which held the trenches Always thinking you would come Thro’ the frozen hell of winter Thro’ the shrapnel’s racking din – They have waited, never doubting That you’d join them to Berlin THOMAS WILLIAMS 11 Watery Lane, Wrexham (Wrexham Advertiser, 11.03.1916)

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WREXHAM TELEGRAPH How a Broughton soldier met his death in the present great push provides a stirring narrative of British pluck and bravery. The hero concerned was Pte Hywel Price of the RWF. From a letter received from a sergeant in the same Company, it appears that they were engaged in a particularly hot part of the line. Pte Price was wounded, but after having his wound hastily dressed, he returned to the trench. He was again wounded and stubbornly refusing to be conveyed to safety, he again returned to the fray. The third time, however, he was fatally wounded and died in a short time. This happened on July 20th and, according to the letter, the deceased was recommended for gallantry. A native of Bwlchgwyn, Pte Price was 27 and was attached to the RWF for many years, having served for a long period in India. He arrived at the front in August 1914 and had come through practically scatheless.

A Broughton Hero

(Wrexham Advertiser, 05.08.1916)

-------------Gwersyllt Soldier’s Escape from the Germans Mrs Dooley of Gwersylt has received a letter from her son, who is serving at the front in which he relates an exciting story of capture and escape. He states that after a heavy British attack he was engaged in bandaging a colleague when a big German caught hold of him. “I had to give in for the time being, because there were three more with him, but I said to myself ‘I am going to fight and never will be a prisoner.’ I was watching my chance all the time and before I got to the German trenches I kicked the German down and ran for 20 yards, where I found a German rifle and shot him. I then ran as hard as I could to my own lines. A good many shots came after me, but thank God for His good will, I got here alright.”

(Wrexham Advertiser, 05.08.1916)

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“DAILY MAIL” AND LOCAL TRIBUNALS From the Special Correspondent of the “Daily Mail”:In the busy, bustling town of Wrexham, the metropolis of North Wales, a most curious state of affairs presents itself. It is a town of fierce military and anti-military contrasts. Two tribunals sit at different times. The borough tribunal – commercial and business like – is avid to feed the Army with men. It is strict, but just and therefore it is accused of tyranny. The hard working business men who are responsible for its conduct take care there shall be no holes in the fine mesh of the net they are dragging the town with. Each case is considered according to its merits, the history of every man is fully and properly compiled and the consequent “bag” is good. Everything is subordinated to the needs of the nation. Wrexham has outgrown its old boundaries to such an extent that many of its inhabitants live outside the borough. One side of one street is in the borough and the other beyond it. And so, by the shock of municipal circ*mstances, you have the odd numbers, whose businesses have been depleted by the necessary “tyranny” of the borough tribunal, envying the even numbers across the way, who are dallying in ease by the grace of the district tribunal. The members of this august body are familiarly known as “the six monthers” by reason of their readiness to grant wholesale exemptions over that period practically for the asking for. For three hours I sat with the “six monthers” yesterday. It was more like a pleasant assemblage of the Royal and Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes than a meeting of supreme and serious import. The members lolled at half-moon spread of tables smoking and taking their ease. One old gentleman in buckskin gaiters turned his back on his brethren and sat haunched over the fire. Throughout the afternoon a procession of sheepish young men, brushed up and titivated for the occasion and chaperoned by either their fathers, or their masters, filed in and out of the room and not a single one was booked. They were mostly little men, but as tough as ratting terriers. Nearly everyone produced Class A certificates. The very sight of them would have broken the heart of the stoutest recruiting sergeant. When this jovial family party broke up at six o’clock for tea, they had not netted a single man for the Army. But they had a merry afternoon and seemed very pleased with themselves. [Editor: May 25, 1916 - The era of the all-volunteer British Army ended as universal conscription takes effect requiring all eligible British men between the ages of 19 and 40 to report, excluding men working in agriculture, mining or the railroads.]

(Wrexham Advertiser, 28.10.1916)

10

THE GREAT WAR – COMMEMORATIVE EDITION Pte William Finnigan has been killed in action. The deceased, who was 19, was formerly employed at Gresford Colliery. He had been serving at the front with the RWF for 11 months and on the day of his death he had parted from his regiment in the course of battle and when killed was operating with the Royal Hussars. A letter from a comrade says “He was shot in the head after he got his bayonet in a German. There were six German dead in front of him, so he must have done a great bit before he went under. I expect he would have sooner died like that than on his bed, for he had a pleasant smile on his face when I found him”

Wrexham Soldier Killed

(Wrexham Advertiser, 28.10.1916)

It is interesting to note that the pancake bell was rung at Wrexham Parish Church on Tuesday. It was the ancient custom that after confession and absolution on Shrove Tuesday (the ‘shriving day’), people should feast and enjoy themselves before the beginning of Lenten fast. The only vestige of the feasting seems to be the pancake, a very mild concession to the things of the flesh. The pancake bell which was at one time rung at most places on Shrove Tuesday, was originally a summons to confession. Later, however, it was the signal for the commencement of all kinds of festivities, including, of course, the eating of pancakes. Wrexham still retains the old custom of ringing the bell.

Observer Abroad - The Pancake Bell

(Wrexham Advertiser, 11.03.1916)

The Health Munition Workers Committee has prepared four new Memoranda dealing with ‘Industrial Fatigue and Its Causes,’ ‘Special Industrial Diseases,’ ‘Ventilation and Lighting,’ and ‘Sickness and Injury’. Dealing with special industrial diseases, the committee mention that operatives in the manufacture of tri –nitrotoluol (Editor: now commonly called TNT) have been found affected by unusual drowsiness, frontal headache, eczema and loss of appetite. If the exposure is continued then the symptoms tend to become more severe, while in a few cases profound jaundice with danger to life has superseded and even death has resulted.

Health in the Munition Factory

(Wrexham Advertiser, 01.04.1916)

The Escaped German Prisoners Captured Near Wrexham An Exciting Chase

Considerable excitement prevailed in Wrexham and district over the weekend caused by the news that 4 German prisoners, who had escaped from their internment camp at Frongoch, near Bala, on Thursday, had been recaptured not far from Wrexham. The prisoners must have left the camp a good time before their escape was discovered on Saturday. Search parties were promptly organised and set to work in every direction. Although the surrounding country afforded excellent hiding places, it was clear that the minute description which had been published of the men, coupled with the fact that none of them could speak English fluently, would not enable them to remain at large for any considerable time and least of all effect an escape. Information reached Wrexham about half-past five on Saturday evening that the fugitives had been seen on the broad expanse of moors which lie between the villages of Bwlchgwyn and Llandegla and Deputy Chief Constable Tippett accompanied by a special constable, motored up immediately. Meanwhile, it seems that about 5.20 PC Howell Edwards of Bwlchgwyn was informed by the postmaster of Llandegla, Mr Hugh Jones that four men answering to the descriptions of the four escaped Germans had passed through Llandegla village at about half past three the same afternoon. Mr Jones had endeavoured to find the Llandegla constable, but he not being at home, Mr Jones followed the men at a distance, up to a place called Maes Maelor, about halfway between Llandegla and Bwlchgwyn. At this point the fugitives left the road and proceeded across the moors in the direction of Rhydtalog. Mr Jones was accompanied by his young brother, Tom, and they arranged that the latter should watch the movements of the Germans whilst the other continued his way to Bwlchgwyn to obtain the assistance of PC Edwards whom he fortunately found at home. PC Edwards at once telephoned Wrexham Police Station and afterwards succeeded in obtaining the assistance of about ten men from the village, including two soldiers of the 2nd RWF. In the meantime at Wrexham, Inspector Rees organised a strong party of special constables and proceeded to take part in the search. Extending from Mold Road to Bersham Road, they gradually worked their way to Minera hills and effectually blocked the way of escape in that direction. Arrangements had been made to keep in touch with Wrexham by telephonic communication from various residences and railway stations and after operations had been in progress a considerable time, news was received that the prisoners had been caught.

Basham Wins Belt Outright

At the National Sporting Club on Monday, Sergt Johny Basham RWF, of Wrexham, was called upon to defend his title against Beattie of Castlecary, Scotland. The event was one of great importance for Basham as a victory gave him the belt as his absolute property and a pension for life after attaining the age of 50 of £1 per week. He had previously won the championship on two occasions, his opponents being Johny Summers and McCormick. The men were boxing for side stakes and purse amounting in all to £475. Basham had trained very quietly in Wrexham on this occasion and was without the help of his usual sparring partners, but he had indulged in any amount of hard work and his condition was splendid. He passed the scale at 10st 5lbs whilst Beattie was 1¼1bs heavier. At the half way stage neither showed up much the worse for wear. Both men carried through the 12th round very strongly with the advantage, if any, to Basham. In the 13th Beattie showed signs of tiring. In the 14th Basham gave him a terrible gruelling and it was as much as Beattie could do to last the time out. The concluding rounds saw Basham boxing superbly. He had quite reversed the tables and was always first in the attack, but Beattie hung on with great reserves. Towards the end of the 18th round Beattie was given a terrible drubbing and time found him tottering to his corner in a beaten manner. He came up for the penultimate round but was quickly floored, taking a count of eight, after which the referee intervened, giving the contest to Basham, who still retains the championship and now possesses the welterweight belt as his absolute property. (Wrexham Advertiser, 06.05.1916)

The Bwlchgwyn party, under the charge of PC Edwards having proceeded some distance along the moors, met the young man, Tom Jones, who was still at his post, vigilantly watching the movements of the Germans. Whether or not the fugitives by this time were aware of the fact that they had been “spotted,” they seemed to content themselves with lying down in the heather. The height and thickness of the heather rendered it impossible for the men to be seen, but Constable Edwards having been informed of the spot where they were seen to settle themselves down, set about surrounding the spot. The plan worked admirably and the fugitives upon looking up found a formidable ring surrounding them. PC Edwards asked them what they were doing there and received the reply they had come from Ruthin where they had been on a trip. Two of the men stated that they were Welshmen. The appearance of the four men tallied almost exactly with the published description except for the fugitive called Breakmann, who seemed to have taken the precaution of ridding himself of his “imperial” beard. The constable told them he was going to arrest them because they were escaped German prisoners. After denying it, one remarked “It’s all right. We have made the mistake of walking in the daytime.” When near Mount Pleasant Bridge, the party were met by the motor car containing DCC Tippett and the special constable and almost simultaneously another police motor car arrived, the occupants of which were two policemen from Ruthin who had been on the track of the fugitives for over 24 hours. The prisoners were promptly taken to Wrexham Police Station, where they arrived about 7.30 on Saturday night. The 6ft 6in giant, named Koch, was placed in one motor and the three others in the other car. The prisoners said their intention was to make their way to Liverpool. In this they were helped by a pocket compass and a “home-made” folding map of North Wales. Upon arriving at the Police Station in Wrexham, they were asked to rid themselves of their belongings and their captors were surprised by the fact that they were plentifully supplied with money and provisions. Amongst their belongings were a large sum of money and treasury notes, amounting in all to almost £10 and various provisions including yards of German sausage. The prisoners left for Frongoch camp by the 9.25 GWR train on Monday morning. Their progress to the Station was watched by a considerable crowd. There was no demonstration and they were removed to their destination without the slightest hitch. (Wrexham Advertiser, 22.04.1916)

Honour for Wrexham Soldier

Courtesy of Mr W.A.Williams

Pte Frank Pickering of the RWF, a well-known Wrexham man, has been awarded the Military medal for gallant conduct on the field of battle. Pte Pickering has had a remarkable experience during the present campaign. He went to France in August 1914, with the first expeditionary force. He fought at Mons, during the retreat towards Paris, in the battle of the Marne, in Neuve Chapelle, Loos and in all the severe fighting on the Somme and up to the present has not received a scratch. During the two years he has been on active service, he has been home on leave twice. His wife, who lives at Buckley, has quite a lot of German souvenirs brought her by her husband when on leave. (Wrexham Advertiser, 19.08.1916)

The Mayor, Councillor L. B. Rowland, addresses troops from the balcony of the Guildhall, Chester Street, Wrexham, 1916 (WM71/3/8)

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WREXHAM TELEGRAPH

Bigamy Charge in Wrexham Sad Story of Two Women

At Wrexham County Magistrates Court on Wednesday, Henry Rigg, stated to be a deserter from the Army was charged on remand by DCC Tippett that on December 23rd 1916 he feloniously did marry one Hettie Esther Morgan of 9 Springfield Terrace Rhosddu, his former wife, Alice Rigg, Being then alive. Considerable public interest was taken in the case and the Court was crowded. Mrs Alice Ann Rigg of Daub Hill Bolton identified the prisoner as her husband and said she was married to him at Bolton Registry Office on July 25th 1908. She produced her marriage certificate. He had been working at Parsonage Colliery, West Leigh. There were three children of the marriage. About January 1915 the prisoner enlisted in the Royal Field Artillery and she received a separation allowance of, she thought 23s per week. About six months afterwards she was informed he had deserted and her pay was stopped. Four or five months after that she received a letter from him asking her to meet him. She did so and in the same evening he re-enlisted in the 3/5 Loyal North Lancashire Regiment and again she received the separation allowance. This was stopped and her “ring paper” was called in, the military authorities at the same time informing that her husband had deserted. From that time until she now saw him in the court she had not heard anything of him. Mrs Hettie Esther Morgan, 9 Springfield Terrace, Rhosddu, said she was the widow of Pte Edward Morgan, Royal Welsh Fusiliers who was killed at the battle of La Basse on January 25th 1915. There were two children of the marriage. She said she made the acquaintance of the prisoner, whom she knew by the name of James Robert Roberts about August of last year when he was lodging at 8 Springfield Terrace. They walked out together a few times and she asked him on two occasions whether he was a married man and he said ,”no”. About November he asked her to marry him and the banns were put up in St James Church, Rhosddu. Samual Jones, collier said he knew the prisoner as Robert Roberts, but had only known him since about the middle of November last. Prisoner asked him to be best man at the wedding and he attended church and signed the register. Police Sergeant Wm Williams said that in pursuance of military inquiries he arrested the prisoner as a deserter from the Loyal Lancashire Regiment. He knew the prisoner as Roberts. The man said he had a discharge certificate from the Royal Welsh Fusiliers but failed to produce it. Witness said “Your name is Private Harry Rigg” but he denied it. In consequence of something that had come to his knowledge he returned to the house and Mrs Morgan showed him the marriage certificate. Witness then charged the prisoner with the bigamous marriage of Mrs Hettie Morgan, but he made no reply. However a statement made by the prisoner was read out by the magistrate and was signed “H Rigg” Prisoner was then charged and was committed to the next Assizes. On his application, bail was allowed in £100 and two sureties of £50. (North Wales Guardian, 07.09.1917)

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WREXHAM SOLDIER ON A SINKING SHIP RE-ASSURING NEWS

News was recently received in Wrexham to the effect that Regimental Quartermaster Sergeant Tom Rogers of Wrexham was on the transport Ivernia which was sunk in the Mediterranean on the first day of this year. Re-assuring news has however come to hand that Mr Rogers was amongst the rescued, a fact which no doubt will cause great relief and pleasure to a large circle of his old acquaintances. Mr Rogers was returning to Egypt on the ill fated Ivernia after home leave and has now arrived safely in Egypt and writing to a friend states that he has no ill effects from his immersion in the Mediterranean. (Wrexham Advertiser, 17.02 1917)

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RUABON NAVAL OFFICER’S DARING DEEDS

Naval Flight Commander Howard Saint (son of Mr T.R.W.Saint, mining engineer, Ruabon) has been decorated with the Distinguished Service Cross. The citation in the London Gazette for November 2nd 1917 is as follows: “For conspicuous bravery in attacking superior hostile formation of aircraft. On 21st September 1917 he with three other machines attacked five hostile scouts. After getting to close quarters with one of them he fired three bursts from his machine gun and drove it down completely out of control. On 23rd September 1917, while leading a patrol of eight scouts he attacked a hostile formation of ten machines. One of them he drove vertically out of control – one of them in flames and has also shown great courage in attacking enemy troops and aerodromes with machine gun fire from very low altitude.” (Wrexham Advertiser, 10.11.1917)

THE GREAT WAR – COMMEMORATIVE EDITION

MILITARY CROSS FOR CEFN SOLDIER

Soldier’s Tragic Death at Wrexham

Mr J Hopley Pierce conducted an inquest, on Thursday, to inquire into the death of Pte Arthur Hyslop (48), Royal Welsh Fusiliers, who was based at the Depot, Wrexham. Mr Pierce said it appeared that Hyslop been in the habit of getting out of bed and going through the window, returning the same way. On Friday last they had been moved a storey higher. Deceased apparently forgot this and went to get out of the window and fell. He was found on the ground below, and was removed to the Infirmary under the charge of Dr Moss until he died. Dr Moss saw deceased first on Saturday about nine o’clock in the morning at the infirmary. He was in a very collapsed state and had a fractured right thigh. He complained a great deal of pain over the lower part of the abdomen. He operated on him on Saturday night at about nine and found he had a ruptured bladder and he was not fit for any further interference that night. He contracted peritonitis from which he died on Monday night. Corporal Harry Newey R.W.F. gave evidence of identification and said that he was awakened at 1.30 a.m. on Saturday morning on hearing cries and groans. He slept on the ground floor in the Company stores opposite the Ellis block. He went outside and it was dark but he saw something lying on the ground. He went across to it and found it was a man. He did not recognise him until he got a light. He informed the Sergeant of the Guard. He asked him how it happened and he replied, “I came from up there”. He also said,” I have had a drop of beer but know what I am doing”. He did not appear drunk. Witness knew nothing about his habits, not knowing him personally, but that he knew he was sleeping on the top floor. None of the other men in the room knew anything about it. Quartermaster Sergeant Roger Metcalf R.A.M.C said he took charge of his case when it was brought to hospital. He seemed fairly comfortable except for the fractured thigh. He asked how it happened and then he became abusive and would not give any information. He was undressed and put to bed. He was seen by the Doctor and removed to the infirmary. He had had a little drink and his breath smelt a little of it. The jury returned a verdict of “Accidental Death”. (North Wales Guardian, 18.05.1917)

WHEN THE BATTLES ARE OVER What be thy mood, oh Europe When cannon thunder cease. When clouds of war retire, Before the Sun of Peace

What be thy fate and fortune, When stems the mighty flood. What will thy sands resemble, When ebbs the tide of blood. How many a stately castle, Built on the sands of time. Will stand erect to harken. The peace bells joyous chime. Will those rejoice and gladden And wax on pleasure mad; Or will the woes of nature For ages make thee sad? Canst they forget the thousands, That will return no more. Who lay on field of battle, Like pebbles on the shore? How green today their laurels, But ah! The sacrifice. Will Europe of the future Be worthy of such price? When thirsty graves and billows, Are satisfied at last, What be thy rock of marble, To mark the dismal past. From this infernal furnace, That smelts thy very soul. Wilt thou emerge the better, Wilt thou attain some goal?

Courtesy of Mr W.A.Williams, Worthenbury, Flintshire

The news that another “coveted” distinction had been won by a Cefn soldier has given immense satisfaction to the people of the district. It was known for some time that a deed of considerable bravery had been performed by a Cefn Officer but not until this week did it become definitely known that the officer referred to was Lieut H. Pritchard, the son of Mr and Mrs W.H. Pritchard of King St. Cefn. He had not been long at the front, but in the great attack on Ancre, about the middle of November Lieut. Pritchard was in command of a platoon of Royal Welsh Fusiliers and his courage and resourcefulness under very trying times evoked the highest praise from the military authorities. For nearly eight hours he and his men stubbornly held a fourth line German trench against fearful odds, and during this encounter a Sergeant was badly wounded. Lt. Prichard

The RWF Barracks, Hightown, Wrexham, c.1914 (WREMA 90.28.259)

decided to carry the wounded Sergeant to the British lines for medical attention. It was a risky and perilous job with shells dropping in all directions and making dreadful havoc. He carried his comrade away and sought temporary refuge in a shell hole. After a short rest he again shouldered his burden but before getting clear of the shell hole another shell dropped close by and lifted the gallant officer into the air many yards high. Miraculously both escaped further injury and after a long and anxious journey reached a place of safety. The Sergeant’s wounds were dressed and his recovery is assured. For this conspicuous deed of gallantry Lt. Pritchard has been awarded the Military Cross and promoted to Captain.

(Wrexham Advertiser, 13.01.1917)

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Proposed New Infirmary for Wrexham: Fitting Memorial for R.W.F. Heroes

We are glad to know that matters relating to the proposed new Infirmary for Wrexham and District and referred to by the President at the Infirmary meeting about three weeks ago, are taking practical shape. The belief is growing both in the Borough and the surrounding districts that such a building would form a worthy Memorial to the Heroes of the War. The scheme provides for a totally new Hospital on an improved site, with new equipment, and having accommodation for not fewer than 100 patients. There is no need to refer to the able work which has been carried on at the present institution for the best part of a century but has for several years past the accommodation has been found to be altogether inadequate to meet the needs of the large and increasing number of cases seeking admission. As a result many patients who might otherwise have been treated in the Wrexham Infirmary, have through force of circ*mstances been obliged to enter other institutions. The proposed new scheme is meeting with considerable amount of favour, and it is safe to predict that, when the official appeal is made for funds, it will liberally responded to by all sections of the community. We understand that a gentleman, who for the time being does not wish his name to be disclosed, has promised the very handsome sum of £2,000 towards the fund. His

generosity forms a very valuable nucleus to the movement and cannot fail to enthuse the many others interested in the sick and suffering. It is not intended to undertake building operations until the war is over as for the present it is not an opportune moment for appeals which would necessitate a further strain on the public. It has been agreed the new infirmary will be known as the Wrexham and East Denbighshire War Memorial Hospital. (Wrexham Advertiser, 24.03. 1917)

Wrexham Infirmary, Regent Street, c.1914

Wrexham & East Denbighshire War Memorial Hospital, Rhosddu Road, officially opened 1926

Will treaty when accomplished, Lay low the God of War, Or fashion fatal arrows, To slaughter millions more?

Pte. H. Idris Williams 23rd King’s Liverpool, Registration office, Barracks, Wrexham (Wrexham Advertiser, 07.07.1917)

Angelo Valentino, 40 Mount street was summarily summoned by Sergt. Jones and pleaded guilty. Sergeant Jones said that at 9.25pm on the previous Wednesday he was on duty in Mount street and saw several young people entering and leaving the defendant’s shop. He went inside and saw the defendant in the act of serving two with two penny worth of ice cream with wafer and the other with one penny worth. They left the shop and consumed the wafers outside. Defendant said he considered he had the right to sell ice cream at any time as it was perishable and would be bad the following day. The shop should have been closed at 8 o’clock. Fined 10s.

ICE CREAM AFTER HOURS

The officers’ barracks, RWF Depot, Hightown, Wrexham, c.1914 (WREMA 90.28.501)

SAD BANGOR-ON-DEE TRAGEDY Officer found shot dead, Verdict of Suicide

The sad shooting tragedy which occurred at Bangor-on-Dee on Thursday last week was subject of an inquest held in the Royal Oak Hotel on Saturday afternoon. The deceased, an officer to the Black Watch had seen service in France and although a complete stranger to the neighbourhood, his death under tragic circ*mstances caused a sensation. The deceased calling himself, Lieut D.McKinlay*, arrived at the Royal Hotel about 8 o’clock Monday evening, January 1st. He said to the proprietor “Look here. I called at the Buck Hotel and asked whether they could accommodate me for the night, and the landlord told me it was inconvenient. Do you think you could put me up for the night? He also went on to say that he had to be quite candid as his car had broken down about four miles from Whitchurch and he had given all his money to the chauffeur for the repairs and he did not have a halfpenny piece on him.” On Thursday morning the proprietor’s brother in law and McKinlay, who had shared a room in the hotel were in the kitchen when through the kitchen window the deceased said he saw a rat outside. They got a gun and cartridge and searched for the rat without success, they ate breakfast and afterwards went in search of the rat. The deceased held the gun and decided to search in the stables at this point his companion went for a smoke but on returning to the stables he found McKinlay lying on the ground. The deceased was found lying in the first stall in the stable with his right shoulder against the partition. The

gun was between his legs, butt downwards. There was a hole underneath his chin, the front part of his face was completely blown away and the shot appeared to have gone through the top part of his head. The Coroner in summing up to the jury said, “There is no evidence as to the condition of his mind which would suggest in any way morbid or depressed, on the other hand they had the story of him being wounded, from which over a period of six days he was practically blind and was extremely anxious about being deprived of his sight. Also there was the complaint in the stomach from which he was suffering. The experience from which he had gone through might have created a lack of equilibrium, and they should be in a position more to sympathise with him than to blame him.” The jury, after about 15 minutes deliberation, returned a verdict of “Suicide during temporary insanity” and expressed deep regret that one who had served his country should have come to such an unfortunate and untimely end.

(North Wales Guardian, 12.01.1917 & Wrexham Advertiser, 13.01.1917) *The surname has been changed to ensure anonymity.

(North Wales Guardian, 03.08.1917)

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CULTIVATION OF LAND BY SCHOOL CHILDREN

At a meeting of the County Schools managers on March 12th the Clerk reported that he had arranged for the ploughing of the girl’s playing field, for the purposes of growing food, at Alexandra County School and that the Food Control Committee had set apart two allotments at the junction of Victoria road and Ruthin road west for the cultivation by the boys attending the Victoria County School. A letter had been received from the head teacher of the boys department of Alexandra School stating arrangements had been made for the gardening instructor at the school to give instruction at the Church School on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday mornings. (North Wales Guardian, 30.03.1917)

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NEW POTATOES SERVED IN RESTAURANTS

The bridge at Bangor-on-Dee, Flintshire (©Wrexham Archives)

PLEASE DO NOT REMOVE THIS NEWSPAPER FROM THE MUSEUM

As it appears that in certain hotels and other establishments, subject to the Public Meals Order, new potatoes have been served on more than one day a week, the Ministry of Food point out that by the terms of the order: “no potatoes or any food of which potatoes form part shall be served or eaten on any day except Friday”. This applies equally to all kinds of potatoes. (Wrexham Advertiser, 23.06. 1917)

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WREXHAM TELEGRAPH

THE GREAT WAR – COMMEMORATIVE EDITION

RHOS MINERS AND THE FOOD SHORTAGE A PUBLIC MEETING

The general shortage in food stuffs which been exceedingly acute in the Rhos district during the last two weeks gave rise to a considerable amount of dissatisfaction. Many of the chief articles of food were not procurable and butter and margarine presented a particularly sore point. Hundreds of colliers had perforce to submit to dry bread for their usual meal down the pit. The dissatisfaction eventually developed to such an extent that threats to “down tools” began to be apparent. The question was discussed at a crowded meeting at the Pavilion on Monday evening presided over by the convenor Mr J.T.Edwards. A conspicuous feature of the meeting was the large attendance of women as well as the workmen themselves. The chairman in explaining the object of the meeting remarked that it was impossible for colliers doing hard manual work to subsist on dry bread. They were greatly dissatisfied at the inequality and the speaker spoke of one family receiving several pounds of butter, while a working family of six in the next house had to live on half a pound for eight days. The workers were called upon to face the difficulty calmly and to see that as far as possible there was uniformity in sacrifice. The following resolution was passed unanimously. “That this mass meeting of the residents of Rhos and district protest indignantly against the shameless profiteering which has been permitted in many directions since the outbreak of war, and especially regarding the people’s food supplies. In view of the increasing shortage of many commodities and their high prices, which places them beyond the reach of the poor and the grave danger of an approaching world famine. This meeting declares that the Government in its handling of the food problem should have regard only to the public welfare; should establish the distribution of available supplies on a family basis of share and share alike; should eliminate the taint of profiteering completely, and insist on an equality of sacrifice between all classes. To achieve this object we are of opinion that the only sound economical method is for the State to purchase and control all the essential raw materials and food stuffs. We also request that better transport facilities should be made in the case of perishable goods and consider the period of 14 days is far too long for goods to be conveyed from Southampton to this district.” (Wrexham Advertiser, 15.12.1917)

© Denbighshire Archives, DD/G/3924

Sir.- I have been told of late by several prominent people that it is the miners who are to blame chiefly for present position regarding the high cost of living owing to their organisations claiming advances in wages. May I through your courtesy put the miners’ true position before the public. The Miners Federation said that if the Government were prepared to limit prices and keep them on the same scale as before the war, they were prepared to work for no increase in wages. The Government as usual did nothing. The coal owners alleged their costs had risen fifty per cent between December 1914 and February 1915, but there were no increase in wages. The fifty percent increase was bogus and merely an excuse to raise prices. The Board of Trade inquiry reported whereas the total increase in the cost of production and distribution was at most 3s per ton. The owners and distributors had raised prices from 7s to 11s per ton. I hope however that I have proved sufficiently that it is not the miners who desire to make the nation’s hour of distress and extremity their beer of great opportunity. Yours &c. EDWARD WILLIAMS West Grove, Rhostyllen. November 3rd 1917

Miners Wages and the Price of Coal

(Wrexham Advertiser, 10.11.1917)

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The RWF marching along Regent Street, Wrexham © Wrexham Archives

A sad but beautiful spectacle was witnessed on Thursday evening week at Trawsfynydd when the bardic chair won by soldier poet Pte. Ellis Evans, at the Birkenhead Eisteddfod was brought home. Evans, a shepherd, who was known in bardic circles as Heddwyn, was killed in France. Large crowds assembled at the railway station and formed into a procession headed by several eminent bards. The company proceeded to the village hall where a memorial meeting was held by the Rev J Richards, Dyffnant presiding. Several eminent bards delivered addresses.

THE “BLACK CHAIR” BROUGHT HOME

(Wrexham Advertiser, 22.09.1917)

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THE DISPOSAL OF ACTON PARK Diamond cutting, small holding and Housing Scheme

We are able to make known highly important developments with regards to the use of Acton Park, which was recently purchased provisionally by Wrexham Corporation for £20,000. A few weeks ago Mr John Hodge MP Minister for Pensions and Mr Oppenhiemer of diamond fame, visited Acton Park in connection with the diamond cutting project and the subsequent negotiations and arrangements entered into make it practically certain that the establishment of this highly interesting and important industry in our midst will soon become a fait accompli. The position at present is that Sir Neville Cunliffe Bart., and his trustees will be asked to permit Mr Oppenheimer to “step in the shoes of the Corporation as regards the purchase of the whole park and nine acre field outside the corner of Rhosnessney Lane and Chester Road, subject to Mr Oppenhiemer reselling to the Corporation land for housing purposes viz. a belt of some 60 acres running along the whole length of the south of the estate to the full length of Rhosnessney Lane. Mr Oppenhiemer intends to utilise 20 to 25 acres of land for an experimental school for diamond cutting, polishing &c. The remainder of the land some 129 acres is to be used for the benefit of disabled soldiers being used as an agricultural training centre and let as smallholdings or other purpose the Ministry of Pensions may decide. The arrangement with Mr Oppenheimer was completed at an interview at the Headquarters of the Ministry of Pensions on Monday last and will go ahead in due course. (Wrexham Advertiser, 10.11.1917)

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MINERS WAGES CONTROLLER CONCEDES AN EXTRA 1s.6d A DAY

The Miner’s Federation of Great Britain held another meeting in London on Thursday to consider the negotiations with the Coal Controller regarding the demand for an increase in wages of 25 per cent. At the first sitting the terms offered by the Controller were rejected and the decision communicated to the Controller. Another offer was made and it was decided to accept the amended offer of an increase of 1s.6d per day for all workers over 18 years of age and 9d per day for those under that age. (Wrexham Advertiser, 29.09.1917)

At a special meeting of the Wrexham Town Council on Tuesday night the following resolutions of the Council in committee were adopted. “That the Town Clerk be directed to forthwith apply to the Local Government Board for sanction to borrow the sum of £20,500 for the purchase of Acton Park and a field on the southerly side of Rhosnessney Lane at its junction with Chester Road for the erection thereon of houses for the working classes and the provision of allotments.” That when the application is sent to the Local Government Board, the Board be asked to receive a deputation consisting of the special sub-committee as to Acton Park, the Town Clerk, Councillor Major Roberts and Mr Ormsby Gore MP join the deputation. The purchase will include the Hall, gardens and grounds and the land bounded by Chester Rd., Rhosnessney Lane, Borras Road, Jeffries Road and Box Lane.

THE ACTON PARK ESTATE

(Wrexham Advertiser, 22.09.1917)

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GROVE PARK BOYS SCHOOL Unveiling Ceremony

On Saturday a memorial to the late Second Lieut. J.A.Jones was unveiled in the Central Hall of the school. The memorial took the form of an enlarged photograph of the late Mr Jones. It was the work of Mr T. Wills Jones of Rhyl and is an excellent portrait. The ceremony took place at the close of morning school. Mr Dodd MA, Headmaster, briefly announced the purpose of the meeting and as the memorial was subscribed to by the boys entirely he decided to let the boys conduct the ceremony. Mr Jones had been geography master at the school from 1907 – 1916 and gave his best in all the duties which fell his lot. He made the supreme sacrifice on September 20th 1917. The inscription read:-“2nd Lieut. J.A.Jones, 9th Welsh Regiment killed in action Sept. 20 1917. Geography Master Grove Park School 1907-17.” (Wrexham Advertiser, 24.11.1917)

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It may not be generally known that the Food Controller, on the interpretation placed by his department on the Potatoes (1916) Main Crop (printed order No2 1917), has announced that a person by the way of retail sales is required, although he is the grower, to charge the maximum price of 1 3/4d per lb. Acting apparently on this order a large farm wagon consisting of an exceptionally large number of potatoes weighed up in small quantities stayed on the Guildhall Square on Thursday morning and the man in charge(who is bailiff to Mrs Bellis Hafod y Wern) immediately began to sell them to all comers. The news spread like wild fire through the town and in an incredibly short space of time the cart was besieged by a crowd of people, mostly women anxious to get a supply of the precious tuber. With the assistance of the police that distribution was made in an equal a manner as possible and the action of the farmer was greatly appreciated.

POTATO “SCRAMBLE” IN WREXHAM

(Wrexham Advertiser 07.04. 1917)

Chester Road and Acton Hill, Wrexham, c.1900 (WREMA 90.28.543)

As many readers are aware Mr Arthur Acton has devoted much time in excavating the site of a Roman settlement at Holt, where some interesting pottery has been discovered. Mr Acton has just presented to the Free Library a large number of specimens, and they are being preserved for the Museum which Wrexham will one day possess. Among the pottery are samples which bear the mark of the XX Legion which lay at Chester during a period of the Roman occupation. It is interesting also to note that contributions to the Wrexham War Museum are growing; among them are photographs of the brave boys of the town who have laid down their lives.

INTERESTING GIFTS

(Wrexham Advertiser, 22.12.1917)

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Gresford Miners Demand for Increased Wages

At a general meeting of the miners at Gresford Colliery the following motions were passed. 1 That unless the 25% increase in wages applied for by the Miner’s Federation is immediately granted we hereby empower the General Secretary to tender 14 days notice on our behalf to terminate contracts. 2 That our secretary be instructed to write to the Prime Minister and Food Controller asking them to take the necessary steps to prevent profiteering as it is impossible to procure adequate necessities of like at the greatest prices and wages. 3 That we are against the present constitution of the local food committee as there is inadequate labour representation on same. (Wrexham Advertiser 08.09.1917)

PLEASE DO NOT REMOVE THIS NEWSPAPER FROM THE MUSEUM

WREXHAM TELEGRAPH

THE GREAT WAR – COMMEMORATIVE EDITION

HOW WREXHAM SENT THEIR COMPLIMENTS TO THE GERMANS

We have received a letter from the front signed “A Wrexham boy Canadian Field Artillery France” in which he says, “I have received a parcel from the Wrexham Patriotic Fund, and just at present I am in doubt as to who to thank for this consideration so if you would kindly inform the committee and subscribers that on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day I sent over a few shells to Fritz with the compliments of the Wrexham Patriotic Fund. I am sure they would be tickled to death to know that their compliments were being received.” (Wrexham Advertiser, 12.01.1918)

Munitions workers and mortar bombs, Wrexham, 1918 © Denbighshire Archives, DD/W/870

NATIONAL UNION OF WOMEN WORKERS A BRANCH FORMED IN WREXHAM

A meeting attended by a large number interested in women’s work, from religious and political societies in the Wrexham Borough and surrounding district, was held at the Guildhall Wrexham on Thursday afternoon. The object of the gathering was to consider the proposed formation of a branch in Wrexham and district of the National Union of Women Workers of Great Britain and Ireland. Amongst the objects of the Union were the promotion of the social, civil, moral and religious welfare of the community; to promote sympathy of thought and purpose among women; to focus and distribute information; and to affiliate organisations whose work is in harmony with its objects. Each branch would consist of members and societies working locally, to promote such objects in their respective district. Rather than forming a new society, the objects would be more effectively attained by the utilisation and co-ordination of existing women’s societies whose advice in re-construction work after the war would be invaluable. The resolution to form a Branch of the Union in Wrexham and District was passed unanimously, it being decided that the annual subscription of members should be 1s. The Mayoress undertook the presidency of the Branch; Mrs Ogwen Jones (North and South Wales Bank) was appointed secretary; and Miss Howell Davies, Wrexham, treasurer. (Wrexham Advertiser, 16.02.1918)

PEACE MEETING AT WREXHAM BROKEN UP BY SOLDIERS Mayor’s Vigorous Reply

Lively scenes were witnessed at a meeting held at the Pavilion, Maesgwyn Road, Wrexham on Friday night, under the auspices of the Women’s Peace Movement. The chair was occupied by Miss Calvin Thomas of Wrexham, who said that the actual causes of this war were only the inevitable result of selfishness, which was an inbred tendency of human nature, and so long as the individual was selfish the nation must be correspondingly selfish, and they must surely fall. This war might be ended to-day, but so long as nations went on striking for Number 1 Europe must bleed to death. They were looking for the power to crucify selfish aims and motives and that power was love – deep and infinite. Up to this point the audience had listened attentively, and without a single interruption, but immediately Mrs Bruce Glazier, the well known Socialist, rose to speak it was evident she was not destined for an easy passage. “It seems incredible” said the speaker, “that two nations who were foremost in the work of Christian Missions – Britain and Germany – should be seeking to discover which was the more powerful in the world of killing,

burning and destroying.” “Are you a German?” interposed a burly sergeant. “No I am an Englishwoman,” was the rejoinder, “whose son is at the moment a sailor in danger.” “What about the Glenart Castle Hospital Ship which has just gone down?” “A dastardly outrage, I agree,” conceded the lecturer. “Then don’t bring Germany in as a Christian country, and don’t compare it with England.” (Applause). Mrs Glazier said her great desire was that these terrible differences should not be settled by brute force, but by an appeal to the consciences of the world to secure peace by negotiation. A veteran soldier stepped forward saying “but you surely have not read your papers lately. Germany settled peace with Russia, and yet Germany are advancing. You cannot negotiate with liars.” “The one hope for the whole of Europe,” said the speaker, “is that the men in Germany who detest the Kaiser ---” “Stop,” interrupted a Tommy, “I don’t think you detest the Kaiser or you would not be holding this meeting to have peace with him. The people who

appreciate this meeting are pro-Germans like yourself. Go and ask the lads in khaki if they want a German peace.” (cheers). Mrs Glazier: “I am doing my utmost to get --“To get Germany to lick us that’s what you are doing. Look here madam, I am one of seven brothers who went up on mobilization and so long as there is a bit of khaki left we are going to fight for an honourable peace, a peace that will make it impossible for our children to have to go through what we are going through. I am a Welshman, and to think that here in Wales I should be listening to a woman talking like this to us br-r-r-r-r.” (Laughter and uproar) A heated argument ensued between the members of the audience and the soldiers. The Mayor stepped forward and said “I sympathise with my friends at the back many of whom have done glorious deeds in our darkest hours, and I admire them as much as anyone on earth but an amendment will be moved by myself on behalf of the Mayoress, and I appeal to the generosity of my friends to wait until then and gauge between us.”

(Wrexham Advertiser, 09.02.1918)

On Saturday, Mrs Thomas, of Stansty Golf Lodge, received the sad news that her only son, Pte John Thomas had fallen in action in France, on August 13th. Pte Thomas who was 21 years of age, was well known to golfers in the district, having for several years been engaged on the Golf Links. He joined the colours two years ago, and had served about 20 months on the battlefield. He was wounded about three months ago, but was soon in the trenches again. How Pte Thomas met his death is told in a letter from a comrade who was near him at the time. He writes “Whilst we were proceeding down from the front line after conveying rations to the men, the Hun opened a very heavy bombardment. Presently, a shell of heavy calibre burst about 10 yards away from us, and a piece of shrapnel embedded itself in your son’s forehead. I was on the opposite side of the road and walking about two yards in front. I saw him fall, and he just succeeded in saying “Send my things home lad, and tell them how it happened.” This was all he was able to say. He was leaning on my shoulder, and with a sigh he fell back to rise in a better land. The incident was over in two minutes, and about half an hour later his body was conveyed by stretcher bearers to the British burial ground behind the lines, where he now lies with a wooden cross bearing his name over the grave.”

GWERSYLLT – ONLY SON KILLED

(Wrexham Advertiser, 31.08.1918)

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This week the Old March or Pleasure Fair is being held in the Beast Market. The chief attractions are swings, round-abouts, shooting galleries, palmists, and hoop-las. And there is a wild beast show. It is remarkable to note the large number of palmists who have little tents, and to observe the very large number of people who consult them. Most of the clients are women, and there is little doubt that the burden of their anxiety to know what the future holds, is that they have some dear one in France or on some other battle front. Wrexham, like other places, shows an anxiety to raise the curtain which obscures the coming months.

THE FAIR

(Wrexham Advertiser, 20.04.1918)

--------------

It is practically decided that jam will be rationed in the autumn. Jam, golden syrup, honey and all similar substances which are spread on bread will be rationed as one article. The Food Controller will shortly announce new meat prices which, it is understood, will be about 2d per lb. more for all joints.

JAM AND SYRUP

(Wrexham Advertiser, 24.08.1918)

Edward Archibald, 14RWF, Killed in action 07.03.1918, aged 21, Grove Park County School for Boys Roll of Honour © Denbighshire Archives, ED/GS/11/84

'Munitionettes', Wrexham, 1918 (WREMA 91.34.13)

RHOS FAMILY’S SACRIFICE EIGHT SOLDIER SONS

There are probably very few families in the country who have attained the military record of Mr and Mrs George Roberts of Ponkey, all of whose sons volunteered to serve their country. Three of them were out in France as early as November 1914, whilst a fourth joined the colours in December 1914, not long afterwards three others enlisted, whilst the youngest joined up a few months ago. Two have paid the supreme sacrifice – Pte Jack Roberts and Pte Wm. Roberts. Another, Pte Albert Roberts, after three and a half years in France, has been missing since April 13th and his parents are still anxiously awaiting news of his whereabouts. Pte Peter Roberts is lying gassed and wounded at a base hospital; whilst two others, Ernest and George, are also gassed. Pte Alfred Roberts, of the Welsh Regiment, arrived home from the King George’s Hospital, London, having been badly wounded in the head. The youngest, who enlisted a few weeks ago, is stationed in Ireland. A sad feature of the case is that the father is seriously ill and whilst the troubled mother has borne her many afflictions with great courage, it is one of those cases which proves that the greatest sacrifice receives the smallest recognition. Whilst the Government have lately been scattering honours of various grades with an unprecedented lavishness all this brave and sacrificing woman receives from a grateful country is an allowance of 7s 9d in respect of each of two of her sons which is supplemented by the princely weekly sum of 10s from the National Insurance – all this to sustain herself and to restore the fast ebbing health of her husband. Had the sons remained in their protected employment at the collieries, the wages now prevailing would have enabled the family to live in a high standard of comfort. (Wrexham Advertiser, 29.06.1918)

Mrs Prince, Ruabon Road, Johnstown, widow of Farrier E. Prince, who was killed on active service recently, has received the following letter from his officer, Lieut W Freeman Richardson A.S.C.: “Dear Madam, I am writing on behalf of the Officer Commanding No. 6 Reserve Park, to tell you how distressed we all are at your husband’s death, which occurred, as no doubt the War Office has informed you, on the night of the 16/17. Everybody liked him immensely, because of his kind and generous nature. All ranks admired and respected him for his sterling qualities, and for his conscientious devotion to his duties. It may be some little consolation to you in your terrible loss to know that all his comrades (Officers, N.C.O.’s and ranks) mourn his loss, and to be assured that he suffered no pain, but remained unconscious to the end. It was my sad privilege to follow, with a party of his comrades, your husband’s body to the graveside and to pay, in the cemetery of an Old-World French town – set among green fields and meadows, quite unspoiled by war – homage to our dear dead friend. A Church of England chaplain performed the sad rites and his body enclosed in a coffin, was borne to the grave, covered with the flag of the land he served loyally and well. You must not picture him to yourself as lying among strangers in a foreign land, but rather – as is really true – among many other gallant Englishmen who will keep watch with him till the Resurrection Morning. His personal effects will be forwarded to you, and you will notice that some of them (including his pay-book) bear marks of the missile that deprived you of such a good husband, and us, who are left, of so gallant and faithful a friend.”

JOHNSTOWN - A FINE LETTER

(Wrexham Advertiser, 20.07.1918)

The following is taken from the “Star”

I know a man of industry, Who made big bombs for the R.F.C. And pocketed lots of £.s.d.And he (thank God!) is an O.B.E.

I know a woman of pedigree, Who asked some soldiers out to tea, And said, “Dear me!” and “Yes I see”And she (thank God!) is an O.B.E.

Soldiers marching along Regent Street to Wrexham General (G.W.R) railway station (© Wrexham Archives)

On Monday (Bank Holiday), a fete in aid of the Comforts Fund was held in the park. The weather in the early part of the day was brilliantly fine, but in the evening a very heavy shower of rain fell which disturbed the arrangements, but on the whole the fete was a success and no doubt a considerable sum has been raised for the excellent cause. Since February 1916, 33,364 articles have been sent to our soldiers. Last week 1,000 pairs of socks were sent to six different battalions, and this week ten battalions will receive 30,000 cigarettes. The things sent are socks, towels, gloves, mits, handkerchiefs, mufflers, thirst-quenchers, candles and the ever welcome cigarettes.

THE BADGE OF HONOUR

I knew a fellow of twenty-three, Who got a job with a fat M.P., Not caring much for the infantree – And he (thank God!) is an O.B.E.

FETE IN THE PARK

Lieut. R.C.Evans, killed in action 24.08.1918, Grove Park County School for Boys Roll of Honour © Denbighshire Archives, ED/GS/11/84

I had a friend, a friend , and he Just held the line for you and me, And kept the Germans from the sea, And died – without the O.B.E. Thank God! He died without the O.B.E. - A LT A I R (Wrexham Advertiser, 22.06.1918)

(Wrexham Advertiser, 25.05.1918)

The Home Secretary replying to questions said sweets picked up after an air raid had been examined and no traces of poison had been discovered. Some sweets picked up at Southend had been found to contain traces of arsenic, which probably arose from impurities in the materials used. These sweets were certainly not dropped from air-craft.

Poisoned Sweets Story

(Wrexham Advertiser, 02.03.1918)

PLEASE DO NOT REMOVE THIS NEWSPAPER FROM THE MUSEUM

13

WREXHAM TELEGRAPH

THE GREAT WAR – COMMEMORATIVE EDITION

MISS ELLEN TERRY AT WREXHAM

PERFORMANCE IN THE AID OF RWF PRISONERS On Wednesday last at a special matinee held in Wrexham in aid of the Royal Welsh Fusiliers Prisoner of War Fund Wrexham people were privileged to hear recitals by the most distinguished actress of the age, Miss Ellen Terry. Miss Terry has for some time past been the guest of Mrs Bertram Brooke in the Ceiriog Valley – a lady who is unstintingly devoting her time and purse to the promotion of theatrical entertainments for the purpose of assisting deserving war charities. It was announced that Miss Ellen Terry was suffering from bronchitis, following a severe cold, and was present against the advice of her doctor. Miss Terry’s kindly act in fulfilling her promise under these trying circ*mstances was fully appreciated by the audience, and her appearance on the stage was the signal for an outburst of applause. The great actress gave Portia’s address in Act IV Scene 1 of the “Merchant of Venice”, “The quality of mercy is not strained.” and a recital from Scene III, Act IV of Romeo and Juliet. At the conclusion of the recitals Miss Patricia Crawshay, the little daughter of Major Crawshay D.S.O., presented a beautiful bouquet to Miss Terry, who acknowledged the gift in her most charming manner.

(Wrexham Advertiser, 28.09.1918)

--------------

I have received a letter from a lady stating that whilst herself and a few companions were picking blackberries in this district “for the Government and our soldiers,” the farmer on whose land the bushes were situated peremptorily demanded their business. They replied “We are picking blackberries to make jam for our poor soldiers.” The farmer remarked “I don’t care a --- for the soldiers,” and took them from them. “ I think it a great shame,” says the writer “that at a time when the country is in need of every ounce of fruit it should be allowed to rot rather than give us a chance of picking them. This man is of military age, and his place ought to be in France.”

THE OBSERVER ABROAD

(Wrexham Advertiser, 21.09.1918)

--------------

SERIOUS STABBING AFFRAY AT RHOSTYLLEN SIX MEN INJURED, RUSSIAN SAILORS ARRESTED

At Wrexham County Police, on Monday, before W. B. Phillips Esq., Paul Goldberg (28), Elmas Ilvice (29), and Wasil Korochki (24), stated to be torpedoed Russian seamen, now engaged in timber work in the parish of Bersham, were brought up in custody charged with having caused grievous bodily harm to Benjamin Lloyd, Rees Lloyd, Rd. Ed. Griffiths and Chas. Morgan all of Rhostyllen. D.C.C. Tippett said that it was one of the most difficult cases the police had yet had to deal with. A number of Russians came to Wrexham on Saturday night and at least five of them were found to be a bit rowdy in Hope Street, some difference having apparently arisen between them and local people. They were moved on by the Police and put on an electric tram-car for Rhostyllen. Apparently everything went well until Rhostyllen was reached, when it seemed they came in conflict with some of the residents. The result was serious inasmuch as two of the Russians were lying in Wrexham Infirmary suffering from very severe knife wounds, and four Rhostyllen men were also badly injured in a similar way. One Russian and one Rhostyllen man were in a critical condition. Inspector Rees brought the three prisoners to Wrexham at about 1 a.m. They were still under the influence of drink. At 3 a.m. he charged Goldberg and Ilvice with causing grievous bodily harm to four Rhostyllen men. D.C.C. Tippett said that other men would be brought before the court in due course. The Defendants were remanded until Thursday next week. (Wrexham Advertiser, 23.11.1918)

14

First World War tank, presented to the Borough of Wrexham War Bond Committee, Parciau (WREMA 93.38.12)

We regret to state that news has been received that another assistant master of the County School for Boys, Grove Park, Wrexham, has been killed in action – Lt. T. Roberts, M.A. (Wales). The sad event took place on the 11th inst. Lieut. Roberts was educated at the University College, Aberystwyth, and for eight years he was at Grove Park School as Welsh and Form master. He enlisted voluntarily in February 1916, and in 1917 he was commissioned to the Yorkshire and Lancashire Regiment. He had over a year’s service in France and was wounded in October 1917. For some months he was acting Captain. Lt. Roberts was the founder and secretary of the Wrexham Welsh Society. He was a noted Welsh scholar and was a successful competitor at the Eisteddfod with metrical translations from Horace. His death will be greatly regretted especially by the old boys of Grove Park School, by whom he was greatly esteemed. Deep sympathy is felt with his wife and mother.

WREXHAM MASTER KILLED

(Wrexham Advertiser, 19.10.1918)

--------------

The influenza epidemic which has been raging in our midst for the past few weeks shows little sign of abatement, and the local Authority has agreed, on the recommendation of the Medical Officer, to close schools for a further period of seven days. The death toll is a heavy one, and amongst those who have succumbed to the dread disease is Mr Settle, licensee of the Royal Oak. Many prominent townsmen have contracted the malady and some of them are in a sad condition.

INFLUENZA IN WREXHAM

(Wrexham Advertiser, 02.11.1918)

--------------

On Monday morning the welcome news came through that Germany had accepted the terms of the Allies in respect of the armistice. So after more than four years of terrible struggle the arch-enemy of mankind has been brought to heel. In order to escape the righteous vengeance of most of his own subjects for his failure to bring about what he confidently told them to believe was well within his grasp, the humiliated and crest-fallen War Lord has fled and sought sanctuary in a neutral State. Boasting of pride, power and invincibility, he, when the time came, had not the courage to face the music but elected carefully to continue to protect himself from risks which during the war he had been equally determined to avoid. Thus has ignominiously fallen one of the most monstrously cruel and inhuman monarchs that ever ascended a throne. Happily for the peace of the world, the reign of this monster in human guise has been brought to an inglorious end and his dreams of conquest have been permanently shattered. The world would be better if it were rid of the fallen monarch and of all those parasites on human progress who have allied themselves with him and his mad, bloodthirsty and unavailing efforts to rule the universe.

THE ARMISTICE

(Wrexham Advertiser, 16.11.1918)

Really Good Women Workers

At intervals we are gradually discharging between 500-600 women who have been employed on Munition Contracts. Without exception they are all splendid workers and if you need a Cook, Shop Assistant, Maid, Nurse, Farm Help, Lady Clerk, Typist, Laundress, Printer’s Assistant, Teacher, Milliner, Dress-maker, Tailoress, Lady’s Companion, Governess or Waitress --- then you should write or call at the Labour Exchange at once. If very urgent, then write us direct, and we will do our best to help you. Powell Brothers Ltd., WREXHAM (Wrexham Advertiser, 21.12.1918)

Munitions workers, Powells Cambrian Works, Wrexham, 1915–18 (381/1)

Our readers’ attention is called to an earnest appeal for funds to provide a Hostel for Disabled Soldiers or Sailors, who come into the district to take advantage of the splendid training facilities now available at Acton Hall Gardens. On Saturday last, Mr Bernard Oppenheimer generously presented the Gardens at Acton to the Management Committee of the Training Colony and 40 men are now undergoing their 12 months’ course of training in market gardening, under fully qualified instructors. We are sure it is unnecessary for us to do more than simply call attention to this appeal to the public, to provide the necessary funds for equipping the Hostel, so that it can be opened in a week or two. (Wrexham Advertiser, 04.05.1918)

HOSTEL FOR DISABLED SOLDIERS

Commemorative china tankards and cups, now available for purchase at Rogers & Jacksons, Wrexham (WREMA 87.141.3 & 87.56.5)

© Denbighshire Archives, DD/G/3959

PEACE REJOICINGS IN WREXHAM

The joyful news of peace was received considerably earlier than anticipated and the people were somewhat unprepared for it. The persistent buzzing of a hooter at a local works at about 10.30 am was the harbinger of the good tidings and a few minutes later small knots of people were seen in the streets in their eagerness to obtain information. This was quickly forthcoming and by noon the town was crowded with delighted citizens, whilst almost every building in the town, including the smallest dwelling, was decorated with every available article of festoonery. By common consent tools were “downed” in all workshops of the Borough and lorry loads of munition girls in their overalls, and groups of male workers on foot were soon to be seen parading the streets of the town. The Mayor addressed the gathering crowd from the balcony of Wynnstay Hotel. “We meet this morning,” said his Worship “on a very joyful occasion – the most joyful we could possibly imagine or think of. After four years of the most tremendous conflict in the history of the world, I have the pleasure of announcing that a complete victory has been obtained for the forces of right against the power of evil.” (Loud applause). The Band of the R.W.F. played the National Anthem and “Hen Wlad Fy Nhadau,” after which three cheers were given for his Majesty’s forces.

Naturally the occasion was not allowed to pass unnoticed in the schools of the town. The Union Jack was hoisted and saluted by the children who sang the National Anthem and gave vent to their feelings by repeated rounds of cheering. At 7 p.m. a service of thanksgiving was held at the Parish Church. The sacred edifice was filled to overflowing with large numbers being unable to find seats. On Wednesday a general holiday in honour of the event and business was suspended for the day. Thousands of people congregated in the streets and rejoicings were kept up with the utmost enthusiasm.

(Wrexham Advertiser, 16.11.1918)

© Denbighshire Archives, DD/G/3959

PLEASE DO NOT REMOVE THIS NEWSPAPER FROM THE MUSEUM

WREXHAM TELEGRAPH I very much regret to hear that some people have such little respect for the feelings of the bereaved as to interfere with the floral tributes places on the Borough Memorial to our fallen heroes. A young lady who deposited a beautiful bunch of flowers on the shrine in memory of her fallen lover was very much grieved to find, shortly afterwards, that it had been stolen, presumably for the sake of the silk ribbon, with which it was tied. It is impossible to describe one’s detestation of such conduct, and it is to be hoped the public will assist in bringing future culprits to book. OBSERVER

THE GREAT WAR – COMMEMORATIVE EDITION

THE OBSERVER ABROAD

R

(Wrexham Advertiser, 23.03.1918)

I understand the Old Guildhall in Brynyffynnon Lane is at last to be demolished. The building is in a shocking state of dilapidation, and has certainly become an eyesore. Its historic associations are almost unequalled in the town, and although it has long since passed the utilitarian stage, one regrets, sentimentally, its removal. Architecturally it has always been an object of great interest, and the pity is it could not have been taken in hand in time, purchased and restored by the Corporation, and converted into a museum, or something of the kind. It would of itself form one of the town’s most valuable relics. OBSERVER (Wrexham Advertiser, 16.11.1918)

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WEARING A DISCHARGED SOLDIER’S BADGE

SIX MONTHS’ IMPRISONMENT WITH HARD LABOUR AND A FINE OF £21 At the Wrexham Borough Police Court, Thomas Collins, The Fair Ground, Wrexham was brought up on remand charged with unlawfully wearing a discharged soldier’s badge. Prisoner pleaded guilty. Sergeant Jones said at three p.m., on 20th April he was on duty in the Beast Market, searching for men of military age attached to the Fair. He saw the prisoner, who was wearing the silver badge for services rendered, and called him to one side, and asked him if he could produce discharge papers. They went into a shelter and the prisoner bolted; they gave chase and he was subsequently intercepted by P.C. Arkinstall. He then appealed to one of his friends for his papers, but he refused. Prisoner became violent, feigned fainting, and said he wanted a conveyance, and witness told him that unless he walked to County Buildings, he would be strapped to an ambulance. On the way there he gave his name as Thomas Collins, but when asked for his Regimental number, he replied, “That’s enough.” Prisoner denied asking anyone for the loan of their discharge papers. He said he was 23 years of age, and was now quite willing to offer his services, and he was sure he would be good. The Chairman called the man’s attention to the wording on the badge “For King, Country and Empire, for services rendered” and said it was a most despicable offence for him to wear that badge. After a retirement of a few minutes, the Chairman said the Bench considered the case a bad one. That a young man of his age should shun his responsibility to his country was a disgrace, especially considering his physique (prisoner being a well-built man). Looking at the gravity of the offence, he would have to be convicted, and he would be committed to prison for six months with hard labour, and in addition would be fined £21; in default of which he would have to serve an extra three months with hard labour. Prisoner, on hearing the sentence, said his name was not Collins, but Thomas Hughes, and that he was a deserter, and had done his bit but did not wish to go back to his old Regiment. Prisoner was warned that he would only make matters worse for himself by making such statements.

(Wrexham Advertiser, 04.05.1918)

DISTRICT NEWS BRYMBO

Enlisted For the Fifth Time — A Brymbo

soldier

who

has

been

discharged five times from the army on medical grounds provides an

example of unflagging determination

to “do his bit”. A member of the Territorials prior to the war, Pte. J.

Davies, of the Green, rejoined in September 1914, and was drafted to

Ireland with the R.F.A. After a few

months he was discharged on medical grounds, but again joined the South Wales Borderers.

The same thing

happened on three further occasions, he being discharged each time after a

few months’ training. Last week, not to be deterred he offered himself

again, and has been accepted for a machine gun position.

BROUGHTON

Accident — Whilst proceeding along Hope Street, Wrexham, on Monday morning,

Miss

Primrose

Buffy,

Francis Road, Moss, was attacked by

a passing cow, which appears to have

been frightened by the traffic. She was thrown down, and sustained

bruises and a severe shock. Miss Buffy was taken home, and is recovering.

On Leave — Lce.-Corpl. Wm. Ed.

Edwards, eldest son of Mr and Mrs E.

T. Edwards, Bryn Tirion, Brynteg, is home on leave. He went to France,

August 1914, with the Wiltshire Regiment, and was at the Mons, Alsace and other battles.

He was

LATEST

WAR NEWS

Late last night the British Government had not received news of the signature of the armistice between Italy and Austria, and there was reason to suppose that this stage had not then been actually reached. Count Tisza, the ex-Hungarian Premier, one of the main culprits for the war, has been assassinated by a soldier.

CHAOS IN AUSTRIA

(Wrexham Advertiser, 02.11.1918)

R

From the Allied Headquarters, the General Armistice Mission yesterday sent the text of the terms to the Imperial Chancellor and the German High Command by a courier who had to cross the French lines beyond Guise in the evening and proceed to Spa, in Belgium, not far from the German frontier. The terms must be accepted or refused by eleven o’clock on Monday morning. Marshal Foch refused the German request for an immediate suspension of hostilities and the Allied advance continued yesterday vigorously. Prince Max has resigned the German chancellorship “owing to the changed Parliamentary situation.”

ARMISTICE ULTIMATUM

(Wrexham Advertiser, 09.11.1918)

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A BELGIAN SOLDIER’S GRATITUDE

rather than any sensational outburst

LETTER TO A WREXHAM LADY A lady in Wrexham has received the following letter from a Belgian soldier, who was wounded and who was in a hospital in Wrexham. Armée Belge, 11eme Nov 1918 My Dear ----TE DEUM LAUDAMUS Today, at 11 o’clock we had a great solemnity at the place in the village to celebrate the Armistice. I cannot tell you the joy which is in our hearts. In the next days we will have to go into our towns and we will have many emotions. Today I am very nervous and I am writing you these few words to tell you all my sympathies for the English Soldiers who have been so splendid in the delivery of our dear Country and to all the English people who been so good to all the Belgian wounded and refugees. Yours, R De C.

Monday, which was announced in so

RETURNED FROM GERMANY

recently awarded the Mons ribbon,

and will be awarded the Mons “Star” on his return.

(Wrexham Advertiser, 01.06.1918)

CEFN MAWR

The Armistice— When the news that

the hostilities had ceased arrived in Cefn, the whole village assumed a holiday spirit, shops were closed, and

Messrs Graesser’s employees were granted a holiday until Wednesday. RHOS

Peace Rejoicings — It was with heartfelt

but

innocent

rejoicing

that Rhos received the great news on unmistakeable a fashion by the hooters

and

whistles

of

the

neighbouring works. There was an obvious feeling of intense relief for

the village has had a substantial

quota of fighting men, and a heavy roll of fallen heroes.

The colliers

immediately the news was conveyed to them down the pit broke out and

sang Praise God From Whom All Blessings Flow.

The management

announced that Tuesday would be observed as a holiday, but urged the men to return to their work on Wednesday, which they did with the

exception of a small minority. On Monday

presented

evening, a

lively

the

streets

aspect,

the

Salvation Army Band parading the district

playing

the

National

Anthems and hymns of rejoicing, and

followed by hundreds of children carrying banners and singing to their

hearts’ content. But the inhabitants did not forget their allegiance in

another manner, and services of thanksgiving held during Tuesday at

Capel Mawr, Penuel, Bethlehem and

Seion, Ponkey were reminiscent of the revival days of 1904.

(Wrexham Advertiser, 16.11.1918)

(Wrexham Advertiser, 16.11.1918)

--------------

Pte. Jos. Wilson, 1/10th Liverpool Scottish, has returned to his wife and family, at 39 Saxon-street, on his release from Germany, where he had been imprisoned for 12 months. He was captured at Cambrai, after having been severely wounded. Two of his fingers were amputated by a German doctor, and he was afterwards moved to the prison camp at Friedrichsfeld, near Wesel. He looks remarkably well, and attributes this entirely to the fact that he was confined to camp the whole time (owing to his low category caused by the injuries), and received his food parcels regularly. He says that the men in a high category were sent to work in the mines or behind the lines, and consequently never received their parcels, with terrible results. The rations supplied by the Germans consisted of ‘rookie’ bread — which is stated to consist of sawdust, glucose and other mysterious ingredients — barley water and cabbage water which received the title of soup. He says but for the parcels from this country, they would most certainly have starved. The Russians in the camp were very badly treated and suffered severely from malnutrition, with the result that the slightest illness carried them off. But for food given them by the British soldiers, they would have been almost wiped out. Referring to the treatment of the prisoners by the German Guard, Pte. Wilson said the most human were those who had previously been to England. (Wrexham Advertiser, 14.12.1918)

EXHIBITION AT WREXHAM A highly interesting and instructive exhibition illustrating the work and conditions of employment in the various branches of Women’s War Service, was opened at the Church House on Wednesday. The immense value of women’s war services is increasingly being recognised, and the exhibition forms part of an extensive campaign to bring home to the women of the country of the necessity for further recruits. The following stalls were arranged around the room: V.A.D. (Red Cross and St John’s), Queen Mary’s Army Auxiliary Corps, Women’s Royal Naval Service, Women’s Royal Air Force, Women’s Land Army, Navy and Army Canteen Board, Air Constructional Instruction Stall, Munitions Stall, Queen Mary’s Needlework Guild, and a stall in connection with Lady Palmer’s Guild for the supply of bandages and other hospital requirements. Demonstrations are taking place daily in fruit and vegetable bottling and canning by Miss Prothero of the Food Production Department, in thatching by Miss Luxmore and Mrs Jones-Mortimer, in V. A. D. Work by members of the Roseneath V. A. D. Staff; in shell drilling, core making, gauging, &c by a party of munition girls. Operations which proved a special attraction and provoked much interest.

WOMEN’S WAR SERVICE

R

(Wrexham Advertiser, 20.07.1918)

— Information has been received that Sister Edith Hewitt (Q.A.I.M.N.S.R.), daughter of the late George Hewitt and Mrs Hewitt, of 79 Norman Road, Wrexham, has been mentioned in dispatches for good work in Mesopotamia. It will be remembered that Sister Hewitt was awarded “The Order of the Royal Red Crown” some months back. Sister Hewitt is taking a short rest in India, prior to returning to active service.

HONOUR FOR WREXHAM NURSE

(Wrexham Advertiser, 24.08.1918)

A WREXHAM SAILOR HONOURED The great episode of the Navy in the never to be forgotten operation at Zeebrugge was called to mind on Monday when Lieut. Harold Vivian Rogers, R.N.R., Navigating Officer of the ‘Daffodil’, a Wrexham boy, son of Mr and Mrs W. J. Rogers, Harddin Villa, Bersham Road, Wrexham, was the recipient of a presentation sword and a gold watch. Lieut. Rogers, who took part in the Great Adventure, is a native of Wrexham, and was educated at the Victoria Schools and at Grove Park School, and a subscription list was opened to present him with a token of high regard in which his fellow townsmen held him. The presentation was made in the Council Chamber at the Guildhall on Monday evening. His Worship The Mayor presented the sword, watch and a cheque for £7 10s, the balance left over from the subscription list. The gifts were then handed over amid the greatest applause, the audience rising. Lieut.Rogers, who was loudly cheered, said on behalf of the Service to which he had the honour to belong, he desired to thank them for the gifts. He gave an account of the great work the ‘Daffodil’ did in sealing up the harbour at Zeebrugge, and in assisting the ‘Vindictive’ in its work. He detailed the incidents, and spoke of the enthusiasm of the men, none of whom expected to return safely. He referred to a youth who fought hard to get in the expedition, and did so. This boy used to spend his holidays at Holt, but he was killed by a shell. Lieut Rogers then resumed his seat amid loud cheers. ...The Mayor said that Lieut. Rogers had most generously presented the cheque for £7 10s, the balance of the subscription, to the Mayoress for her Comforts Fund.

THE ZEEBRUGGE EPIC

LOST, on Tuesday, between Rhosrobin and Wrexham, a WRIST WATCH. Finder rewarded — 1, James Terrace, Old Rhosrobin

LOST AND FOUND

LOST, on Monday, June 16th, between Gresford Offices and New Rhosrobin, FIVE £1 NOTES. Finder rewarded — John Collins, Garden Cottage, New Rhosrobin

WILL the Person who took the wrong TRAVELLING CASE, from the 8 p.m. Chester-Wrexham bus, on Saturday night last, please communicate with — Jones, 2, Aelybryn, Brymbo. Objects of value to owner only £2 REWARD — Lost on Friday afternoon, between Queen-street, Wrexham and Pentre Broughton, a LEATHER POUCH containing about £20 in Treasury Notes. — Apply, Police Station, Wrexham (Wrexham Advertiser, 21.06.1919)

THE ROLL OF HONOUR which records the NAMES of the MEN FROM WREXHAM who have fallen in the war IS NOW ON VIEW IN THE CHURCHES IN THE BOROUGH, IN THE GUILDHALL, and IN THE FREE LIBRARY. Any CORRECTIONS or ADDITIONS should be sent to the Secretaries by Feb. 7th. DANIEL DAVIES, Vicarage, Wrexham FRANK P. DODD, The Groves, Wrexham, Hon. Secretary

NOTICES

(Wrexham Advertiser, 01.02.1919)

(Wrexham Advertiser, 19.10.1918)

A WREXHAM PRISONER OF WAR DIED ON RETURN FROM GERMANY

A very sad case which is considered due to ill treatment received in Germany, is that of a Wrexham soldier. He withstood for several months what is stated to have been very harsh treatment, and succumbed very soon after his arrival home. At the outbreak of war, Pte. Ward T. Mills, son of Mrs and Mrs Mills, 6 Trevor Street, joined the colours when only 16 years of age. He saw lengthy service in France, but along with thousands of others he was taken prisoner during the German offensive of March last. The first information of his whereabouts was a postcard received by his parents in August. Numerous letters and parcels of food were sent to him, none of which apparently reached their destination. After the conclusion of hostilities, and the announcement that all British prisoners were to be returned, there were naturally high hopes of seeing his return. No word was however received from him but on Monday evening he arrived home unexpectedly, but in such an exhausted and critical condition that medical assistance was immediately obtained. Dr Geoffrey Williams upon examining him, found that he was suffering from influenza, which soon developed into acute pneumonia, and despite all endeavours, death took place on Wednesday. From a physical point of view the deceased was in a very bad condition. His body from head to foot was emaciated. His starving condition and low vitality rendered his recovery practically hopeless. From what he told his parents, he and others had to subsist on food that was uneatable. But most inexcusable feature of the case is that on his arrival at Dover, he was pronounced by the Medical Board, who examined him as “fit for travelling”, and that he would have recovered within a fortnight. On his arrival at Wrexham Station, the fatigue of travelling had rendered him almost too week to stand and how he succeeded to walk to his home, loaded with heavy kit, is a mystery. The circ*mstances of the case have aroused a strong feeling that some arrangements ought to be made for the reception of the men who arrive from Germany, as a helping hand from the station might save the lives of men placed in similar circ*mstances. (Wrexham Advertiser, 30.11.1918)

STORY OF A WREXHAM PRISONER

The following story has been published in the ‘Liverpool Courier’: Pte. Howell Williams, R.W.F. who has just arrived home from Germany relating the prisoners’ need for food, tells a story of the mysterious disappearance of a pup belonging to a German officer: — “A party of men” he says, “were walking along the road when a pup belonging to a German officer came up and one of the prisoners, a soldier from Wrexham, smartly picked it up and thrust it into his pocket. When we arrived at our camp the Wrexham man killed the pup and after boiling it ate it himself. He offered me a joint, but though I was very hungry, I drew the line at boiled dog. What we lived on was mostly potato peelings.” (Wrexham Advertiser, 14.12.1918)

PLEASE DO NOT REMOVE THIS NEWSPAPER FROM THE MUSEUM

Fundraising Poster, St David’s Day, 1918 (DWL 1058/7)

WREXHAM MAN’S EXPERIENCE IN GERMANY

Pte. G. Monslow, a well-known Wrexham man arrived home on Monday after eight months’ captivity in Germany. But despite his trying and hard times, his health is fortunately good. Relating some of his experiences, Pte. Monslow remarked, “During the recent advance, we were forced to work for 3d. a day which we very rarely received. We were constantly under the fire of our own guns, and many of our men were gassed and killed. The tasks we had to perform consisted of damming the rivers and canals, flooding the country and pulling up the railway lines to stop our boys from advancing. The worst of all my experiences was conveying German wounded into hospital and holding them down on the operating table, which consisted of a strip of canvas, whilst the doctors amputated their limbs. These operations they carried out without the use of any chloroform and the screams of the sufferers were terrible to hear. Our food consisted of a small daily ration of bread, made from a little wheat, grass and sawdust, with coffee which was made from burnt wheat. On armistice day we were turned into a field and told to find our way to England the best manner we could. We were compelled to tramp 80 miles with no soles to our boots. Many of our boys died on the road, and we buried them on the roadside. (Wrexham Advertiser, 07.12.1918)

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WREXHAM TELEGRAPH

WREXHAM’S NATIONAL SHELL FACTORY INTERESTING FIGURES

On Friday week, in the National Shell Factory, a presentation was made to Mr Simpson, the highly acclaimed and respected manager, on the occasion of the closing down of the factory. Miss Francis, one of the first employees of the factory, then presented Mr Simpson, on behalf of the workers, with an illuminated address, executed in book form, and containing the names of all the employees — a total of about 220 women and 32 men. Mr Simpson in returning thanks, said he would like to say something of the success of the factory, which was better known to him than to most of them. In November 1916 the output of shells was 1,400 per week. In Nov. 1917, this had increased to 2,000 per week, and in Nov. 1918 to 4,500 per week. (Applause) In addition, the high explosive shells from all the works in North Wales, with the exception of Messrs Powell Brothers, passed through the factory, thus making the total weekly output into 12,000 shells. That showed a very steady increase, particularly during the last twelve months, and the secret of their success was, he felt, due to the co-operation between the workers and himself, for they had all been working together for one common aim, to produce as many shells as possible. (Applause) The result had been that in their production they had exceeded the highest hope of the North Wales Board, and the cost of their shells was the lowest of all National Shell Factories that worked upon 18 lb. shells. (Applause) The reason for their success was, of course, well known to him, but was pointed out by a representative of the Ministry of Munitions, that the men seemed to be doing two jobs and the women and girls 50% more than was expected of them. Touching upon the subject of War Savings, Mr Simpson said that munition workers had been charged with spending their money with great lavishness on useless luxuries, but he understood that the War Savings Association at that factory had contributed £2,000, and £1,000 of this was invested in one week, during the special effort made in the town on behalf of War Savings a few months ago. In conclusion the speaker expressed his sorrow at having to part with them, but thought it fitting that they should separate at the factory, among the machinery, where they had all worked together so amicably for the common cause. (Applause) (Wrexham Advertiser, 04.01.1919) --------------

THE RETURN OF THE 1ST BATT. R.W.F. TO WREXHAM

On Friday night the remnant of the 1st Batt. R.W.F., four officers and 46 men all that were left of the Battalion on active service returned to Headquarters at Wrexham Barracks. This is the first time during this war of the return of any body of soldiers to North Wales as a unit, and the occasion was therefore an eventful one. The welcome was of the heartiest description, but was tinged with sadness from the thought that as a result of the many heroic deeds performed against terrible odds the ranks have been reduced to a mere handful and that hundreds of the original force which entered the fight in 1914, now lie in honoured graves beyond the seas. The Battalion which left Italy, on Monday, reached the G.W.R. Station at 10.30 p.m. and was met by the Mayor and members of the Town Council. There was also a large gathering of townspeople, who cheered heartily. Outside the station, the troops were lined up near the Mold-road steps and were addressed by the Mayor as follows “Officers, Non-Commissioned Officers and men of the 1st Batt. R.W.F., in the name of the Corporation and people of Wrexham, I welcome you back to your old town. We have followed your fortunes during the last four years with anxious, sorrowful yet proud hearts. We know how great has been your trials, how terrible your dangers, and how inflexible your courage. Your wonderful patience, your splendid discipline, and of British valour in the field. This town of Wrexham is proud of you — Fusiliers, well done!” The Mayor invited all of them to meet him the next day at the Wynnstay Hotel to partake of the hospitality of the Borough. (Applause) (Wrexham Advertiser, 08.02.1919)

Unveiling of the R.W.F. Memorial, Grosvenor Road, Wrexham, 15 November 1924. Sculptor: Sir William Goscombe John (DWL 1049/21-24)

THE GREAT WAR – COMMEMORATIVE EDITION

IN MEMORIAM D AV I E S — k i l l e d i n a c t i o n F e b . 5 t h 1 9 1 8 P t e J . D a v i e s ,

K . S . L . I . , a g e d 2 0 , the dearly beloved son of Charles and Lily Davies, Pentre Cottage, Kings Mills. I think I see his smiling face As he bade his last goodbye And left his home forever, In a foreign land to die. He sleeps besides his comrades In a grave across the foam But his name is written in letters of love On the hearts he left at home. — Deeply mourned by Mother, Father, Brothers and Sisters E VA N S — I n l o v i n g b i r t h d a y r e m e m b r a n c e o f m y d e a r h u s b a n d , P t e F r a n k E v a n s , 3 / RW F, d i e d o f w o u n d s i n 2 0 General Hos pi tal, Camiers , France, Oct. 28th 1918, aged 23 years, Feb. 4th 1919. If only I could have raised his dying head, And heard his last farewell, The blow might not have been so great, To me, who loved him well. Dear Frank, you are sleeping your last long sleep; And your grave I may never see; May some loving hand in that distant land, Gently place some flowers for me. — Always remembered by his sorrowing wife, Hannah, Castletown-road, Moss (Wrexham Advertiser, 08.02.1919)

WREXHAM’S FESTIVE DAY Celebrating Peace BRILLIANT SCENES, GREAT REJOICINGS

Women’s Auxiliary Army Corps, Women’s Land Army and Sunday School Children, Peace celebrations, Bellevue Park, July 19th 1919 (© Wrexham Archives)

Over the length and breadth of the British Empire, Saturday last was consecrated to the rejoicings for the celebration of peace and to say the very least Wrexham rose magnificently to the occasion. The town was gorgeously decorated with colour, and from everywhere people crowded to the centre for the never-to-be-forgotten occasion. Never in the history of the Borough has there been such great rejoicings and the day was evidently a climax to all other events; and never has such a carnival been witnessed before with such an outpouring of patriotic enthusiasm when the manhood of the borough assembled to receive the homage of the people, for their services so well and deservedly rendered. Khaki was plentiful in the gathering crowd, but one could not fail to recognize the deep mourning, which in these days at all events is the sad but glorious compliment of the colours of the country. High-street and Regent-street were never before at such a high pitch of lightheartedness and from an early hour it was difficult for pedestrians to get about. The bells of the Parish Church commenced to peal at 9 o’clock in the morning, and continued at intervals towards late in the afternoon. The Beast Market presented a striking military appearance, Ex-servicemen commenced to assemble soon after ten o’clock. Markers were put out for the different units, which included the Navy, Infantry, Artillery, R.A.F., R.A.C., R.A.M.C., Q.M.A.A.C., Girls of the Land Army and Red Cross Nurses. The initial formation in company order was quickly got over, and the men responded with true military discipline to the orders which for the past five years have been ringing in their ears. The Mayor (Councillor L. B. Rowland) and members of the Corporation made their way to the stand in the High-street. Promptly at the stated time, the old command “Shun, form fours, right!” was given and the procession marched off. First came the men who were unable to walk through wounds, who were accommodated in motors and the bands of the 1st & 2nd Batts. R.W.F. Immediately afterwards came the men of the Navy, Artillery etc. The troops were cheered to the echo, and particularly so when Major Crawshay (mounted) came in front of the Infantry. The members of the Q.M.A.A.C., Nurses and Land Girls were given an enthusiastic welcome, and lastly came the R.A.M.C. and the A.O.C, who received some unpleasant gesticulations, such as “Here come the No. 9s etc”, but these were taken in a sportsmanlike manner. As each unit passed, the salute was taken by the Mayor. After the procession, which

numbered over a thousand, had passed, the Mayor read to the people the King’s Message. The route taken was Charles-street, High-street, Hope-street, Regent-street, Grosvenor-road, Rhosddu-road, to the “Wm. Jones” Recreation Ground where the ex-servicemen were given a splendid luncheon, which was very much enjoyed.

AFTERNOON PROCEEDINGS The Park presented a joyful appearance in the afternoon. The children of the Sunday Schools in the Borough had assembled around the band stand. When all had assembled, the bands of the R.W.F. commenced to play ‘O God, our help in ages past’ which was responded to by no less than 10,000 voices. Then came one of the finest sights ever witnessed in the Borough. Over 7,000 children marched in procession through the town. The procession proceeded as follows: The Mayor and Corporation, County and Borough Magistrates, Fire Brigade, Women’s Auxiliary Army Corps, Women’s Land Army, Girl Guides; Hightown, Brynyffynnon, Victoria-road and Egerton-street Wesleyan Schools; Chester-street, Rhosddu, Penybryn, and Bradley-road Baptists; Zion, Calvinistic Methodists; Victoria Hall, Smithfield-road, Trinity and Bersham-road Presbyterians; Salisbury Park, Queen-street and Chester-street, Congregationalists; Salvation Army Band; Salvation Army; Poyser-street Primitive Methodists; Talbot-road, Church of Christ; Boy Scouts, with bugle band; St. John’s, St. David’s, St. Mark’s, St. Michael’s, Smithfield-road, Poplar-road, St Giles’ Church Army – Church of England schools; St. Mary’s Roman Catholics; Gresford Colliery Band and the children from Acton and Stansty parishes. The route taken was Bradley-road, Regent-street, Hope-street, and High-street, where the different schools broke off, and proceeded to the individual Sunday Schools for tea. EVENING PROCEEDINGS From 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. the Band of the 2nd Batt. R.W.F. played in the park. During the evening the Mayor accepted from Mrs J. Stanford a clocked presented by Councillor Stanford for the Bowling Green Pavilion. The remainder of the evening was spent in dancing on the tennis courts. THE FIREWORKS A spectacular display of fireworks brought the day’s proceedings to a close. Rockets and fireworks, crackers etc were freely let off, and continued until a late hour. Flares were fired on the hills, and the outskirts of town were brightly lighted. (Wrexham Advertiser, 26.07.1919)

A SOLDIER’S TERRIBLE STORY

At 9.30 p.m. on Monday Dec. 16th, Corpl. Eli Banks, son of Mrs S. J. Williams, Woollam’s Cottages, Moss, returned home from Germany, where he has been a prisoner. His arrival home was an unexpected and delightful surprise to his mother. Corpl. Banks, who is 24 years of age, was a member of the Broughton Coy., of the Territorials, and joined the army in August, 1916. He went to France, and on Nov. 30th 1917 was taken prisoner near Cambrai. He had been wounded, and was taken to a German Hospital. After being in hospital for about a month he was sent, along with 600 other prisoners of war, to Germany. The day before starting they were kept out in the snow from 8 a.m. to 5.30 p.m. at which point they were packed into cattle trucks – 45 to a truck. They received no food, and the first meal the poor fellows had was at 11 o’clock the following morning, and consisted of boiled turnips. No bread was served out. The next meal was at 11.30 the next morning when each man had a small ladleful – a small cupful – of cooked barley. The journey was resumed, and at 4.30 p.m. the following day, they received a smaller ration of cooked barley. Next morning at 4.30 a.m. they reached their destination in Westphalia, and were sent to Dolman Camp, which was a march of six miles. Here they were kept the whole day, but no food was given. Here they came in contact with parcels from England and but for these they must unquestionably have starved. On Aug. 24th 1918, the men were sent to another camp called Cottbus, and it was here that the prisoners heard the joyous news that the Armistice had been signed. The news was translated from a German newspaper by an Australian officer. After this some 250 prisoners were sent to Stettin for two days. The camp here was very dirty, and there were no beds to lie on. But from here the men embarked on boats for Denmark. The prisoners were hospitably entertained by the Danes and at 1.30 p.m. on Dec. 14th they set sail for Hull, and from Hull, Corpl. Banks left for Ripon en route for home, where he arrived as said on Dec. 16th. In civil life he was a collier at Brynmally, and is an old pupil at Pentre Schools. (Wrexham Advertiser, 11.01.1919)

E x - Ser vi c e M en in H os pi tal Sir, — May I, through the medium of the “Advertiser” draw the attention of the people of Wrexham, to, shall I say, a ‘small’ item? I am very much surprised to find that so soon they seen to have forgotten the ex-Service men in Hospital. At Roseneath, a number of these men are undergoing treatment for wounds received the Great War that has just drawn to a successful close. No one seems to care for them. Visitors do not call round now with their sympathy, cigarettes or papers, as they did only a few months ago, when the war was at its height. On the whole, things appear to have been slightly neglected by the inhabitants of Wrexham. Where are the motor trips? Why not the concerts as before? On summing up, I feel that the following lines are not too severe: When the war arose and trouble was nigh, God and the soldier was the cry; Now war is o’er and troubles righted God is forgotten, and the soldier slighted. Yours &c., A COMRADE

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

R e t u rn i ng So l d i e r s U n e m p l o y e d Sir, — May I say that there are boys in the town for whom the Peace rejoicings fell flat; men who gave up all they had — home, kindred, health and wife, to fight because Kings willed it so, and not for love of strife. Some have been spared wounds, but they have faced the horror out in France for years. And what is their reward, while munition workers and others who stayed at home have been able to invest their savings in the Victory Loan? The returned soldier has found on his return to civil life that his home and work have been taken up by strangers, sometimes by foreigners. His dependents could not, in some cases, keep the home fires burning on the allowances, sometimes through sickness and other causes. The good times for which he suffered and endured, came to him in dug-outs and shell-holes, of a living wage and a comfortable cottage, seem farther off than ever. He is homeless and workless. If he should visit a Labour Exchange he may hear of vacancies many miles away. What irony to a man who has lost his joy of home comforts and the companionship of wife and child for 4½ years? Our town recently made appeals to rejoice and to invest. What has the returned soldier to invest? He invested his all in 1914 and what has it brought him? All that some of us ask is the right to work. We are as willing to work as we were to fight in 1914. Yours, &c., 7th DIVISION (Wrexham Advertiser, 02.08.1919)

Memorial for Next-of-Kin to those Who Fell THE KING’S MESSAGE

In connection with the Government’s decision to issue a memorial plaque and scroll to the next-of-kin who have fallen in the war, the War Office announce that the work of distributing has now begun. In the case of officers, the scroll will be issued from the War Office, in the case of other ranks from the Record Office of the unit concerned. The scroll is of thick paper in the form of a rectangle, approximately seven by seven inches. It bears the following inscription: “He whom this scroll commemorates was numbered among those who at the call of King and country left all that was dear to them, endured hardness, faced danger and finally passed out of the sight of men by the path of duty and self-sacrifice, giving up their own lives that others might live in freedom. Let those who come after see to it that his name be not forgotten.” The scrolls will be accompanied by the following letter from Buckingham Palace, over the King’s signature: “I join with my grateful people in sending you the memorial of a brave life given for others in the great war.” The scrolls will be distributed as they become ready, and no special

application for them should be made, as in view of the large number involved it is impossible to say when their issue in individual cases may be expected. (Wrexham Advertiser, 28.06.1919)

DISTRICT NEWS

(Wrexham Advertiser, 08.02.1919)

B R O U G H T O N ANOTHER GIFT — Mr D .E. Rees, headmaster of Broughton School, has by now a very fine war museum, contributed by his former pupils. He has just received another gift, this time from Sapper E.E. Roberts, Ffrwd (a former pupil), in the shape of a pickelhaube — German helmet — which is practically new. (Wrexham Advertiser, 08.03.1919)

R H O S THE LEAGUE OF NATIONS — A meeting has been held at Capel Mawr to establish a branch of the League of Nations’ Union in the parish. The following resolution was moved: “That the inhabitants of Rhos, in public meeting assembled, heartily approves of the general objects and aims of the League of Nations’ Union, and pledges itself to support the movement for the League of Free Peoples for the securing of international justice, mutual defence and permanent peace, and declares its willingness to join a national union organized on a voluntary basis for the establishment of a League of Free Nations which will provide the machinery for the abolition of war and for bringing about democratic control over international relationship. Further that it pledges itself to form a branch of the Union in Rhos, and hereby requests the following bodies to elect members to serve on the committee, viz: Free Church Council 8 members, Church in Wales 3, Baptists 3, Hafod Lodge 4, Vauxhall Lodge 2, and Bersham Lodge 2. The vicar, Rev. J. H. Thomas proposed the motion; seconded by Rev. W.Wynn Davies and the resolution was adopted.

(Wrexham Advertiser, 17.05.1919)

R H O S REFUSAL — As was announced some time ago, the Rhos Parish Council refused the offer of a machine gun. That the refusal was justified remains to be seen. There is a strong feeling in the district, particularly amongst several of the discharged and demobilized men that the machine gun should have been accepted. They think that it would have proved an interesting memento of the war, and also would be a slight acknowledgment of what the district did in the war. Others are of a different opinion altogether and contend that they have seen enough of the war and its horrors of destruction to life. UNEMPLOY MENT Unemployment in the district still keeps at a high level, and a large number of men are continually to be seen standing at the corners of the streets. As far as can be ascertained, the majority of the unemployed are men who have returned from the Army, and owing to the lack of vacancies, they are thrown out of employment. (Wrexham Advertiser, 21.06.1919)

W R E X H A M MARBLE STEP FROM NAMUR — Just before the outbreak of war a new floor and steps were being placed in the chancel of Wrexham Parish Church, but owing to hostilities, the marble steps were detained at Namur. Here they remained hidden all through the war, but they have now been delivered, and are being placed in position.

(Wrexham Advertiser, 31.05.1919)

Scroll presented to the next-of-kin of Pte John Daniel Williams, killed in the Third Battle of Ypres, 1917 (WREMA 2014.32)

YOUR OPPORTUNITY TO ASSIST A GREAT CAUSE

COMPETE IN THE GRAND FETE ON WHIT-MONDAY

In Aid of Wrexham and East Denbigh War Memorial, etc. ATHLETIC SPORTS - Open Events. Prizes £40 CHORAL CONTESTS - Prizes £55 MALE VOICE CHOIR Test piece – ‘Welsh Airs’ (by Harry Evans) CHILDREN’S CHOIR Test piece – ‘Soldiers and Sailors’ (by Dr D. Evans) BAND CONTEST Test piece ‘Songs of the Sea’ (by W.Rimmer) DAIRY SHOW – Prizes £45

For Farms under 100 acres, under 150 acres and over 150 acres. Classes for Butter, Eggs, Poultry, Bread, etc OPEN RABBIT SHOW AMBULANCE COMPETITION THE CINDERELLA CONCERT PARTY (Mr Walter Roberts) For further particulars, apply Gen. Sec. C. R. B. Jones, Cambrian Iron Works, Wrexham (Wrexham Advertiser, 19.04.1919)

The Editor wishes to acknowledge the kind assistance of Mr T. Britton, Mrs Plant, Mrs Cresswell and Mr R. Jarvis (Industrial Correspondent) and Mr J. K. Plant, the County Archivist, in the preparation of this publication. Typesetting: Mr J. P. Richards

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M I N E R A GERMAN PRISONERS — A gang of ten German prisoners are now being employed at the Minera Lime Works, where they are doing labouring tasks. They are billeted in a hut in the works, and are under military guard. Work is reported to be very brisk in the lime trade generally.

PLEASE DO NOT REMOVE THIS NEWSPAPER FROM THE MUSEUM

-------------PEACE FESTIVITIES IN THE DISTRICT Coedpoeth - A sad feature of the peace celebrations at Coedpoeth was a heavy downpour of rain in the afternoon, delaying the children’s procession for a long time. In the morning a religious service was held on the War Memorial Ground. After the procession, tea was provided in the different Sunday schools, provision having been made for the children not connected with any Sunday school. A reception was given to the ex-servicemen in the Parish Hall. The menu consisted of roast beef, pork, lamb, new potatoes, peas, pastry, salad and tea. Each man was presented with a pack of cigarettes. A procession of ex-servicemen afterwards took place from the Memorial Ground to Plas Power Park. The park had been kindly lent for the occasion by Mrs Fitzhugh, and a long list of sports was gone through, and greatly appreciated, valuable prizes being offered. To commemorate the occasion each parishioner in receipt of an old age pension was presented with five shillings, and those in receipt of out-door relief additional allowances. The whole of the peace celebrations funds amounting to £150 had been raised voluntarily. In the district 400 men from the parish joined the colours, out of which 56 made the supreme sacrifice. (Wrexham Advertiser, 26.07.1919)