Whittle
Selected Biographies
Whittle, Albert – Born: Long Melford, Suffolk on 20.5.1876.[1] Parents: Thomas Whittle (Coconut Mat Maker) and Sarah Ann [née Hurrell] (Horsehair Weaver). Family Connections: Half-brother to George Thomas Hurrell [b1873]; also, brother-in-law of William James Sandford [b1888], Frederick Stewart Codling [b1884] and Arthur Elms [b1890]. Home: Back Meadow, Smaley Lane, Long Melford (1881), Hall Yard, Hall Street, Long Melford (1891), White Hart Inn, Little St Marys, Long Melford [1915]. Occupation: Coconut Mat Maker (1891), Carman [1915]. Service Record: Albert enlisted in August 1893 as Pte.3608 with 1st Battalion, Suffolk Regiment, within a matter of months however he was falling foul of army discipline receiving numerous periods of confinement for using insubordinate language and failing to appear on parade. By November 1894 he was again before the District Courts-Marital charged with stealing from a comrade for which he was discharged ‘with ignominy’.[2] Criminal Record: In July 1898 he was given two months hard labour at Bury County Quarter Sessions for stealing a watch from Mary Ann Susan Codling and a pair of boots from James Deeks, both residents of Long Melford. Days after his release he stole his brother Edgar’s watch and chain earning him four more months with hard labour.[3] Service Record: On 11.12.1915 he was conscripted at Sudbury as Pte.23580 with 3rd [Reserve] Battalion, Suffolk Regiment, transferring to 10th [Reserve] Battalion on 20.6.1916, and as Pte.TR/9/4567 to 26th Training Reserve Battalion on 1.9.1916. He does not appear to have seen active service and by 23.11.1916 had been discharged as unfit for duty due to poor eyesight.[4]
Whittle, Albert John – Born: Kingston-upon-Thames, Surrey in 1884. Parents: David Whittle of Long Melford (Fishmonger) and Mary Ann [née Wilson]. Family Connections: Brother to Herbert George Whittle [b1882] and Henry Charles Whittle [b1887]; also, cousin of Augustus Albert Whittle [b1891] and Warwick Neville Whittle [b1893]. Home: 14 Fairfield Place, Kingston-on-Thames, Surrey (1891), 58 Cambury Park Road, Kingston (1901). Occupation: Greengrocer (1901). Service Record: Albert enlisted in 1900 as Pte.1131 with 3rd [Militia] Battalion, The Queens [Royal West Surrey] Regiment. Although no definitive First World war record has been found he may have enlisted on as Pte. L/10415 with 1st Battalion, East Surrey Regiment. If this assumption is correct, then he was posted to France on 16.8.1914 as part of 14th Brigade, 5th Division, seeing action at the Battles of Mons, Le Cateau, the Marne, the Aisne and La Bassée in 1914.[5]
Whittle, Albert Poulter aka Albert Poulter* – Born: Long Melford, Suffolk on 4.5.1896.[6] Parents: Robert Thomas Whittle aka Robert Poulter [Engine Driver] and Emma Maria [née Younger]. Family Connections: Brother to Robert Harry Poulter Whittle [b1878], Thomas Harry Whittle [b1879], George Poulter Whittle [b1885] and Charles John Poulter Whittle [b1892]. Home: Hall Street, Long Melford (1901* to 1911*), 115 Queens Road, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk (1939). Occupation: Chemist’s Errand Boy (1911), Ministry of Labour Student at Springfield College (1921), Clerk [1928], Supervising Night Telephonist at the General Post Office Telephone Exchange (1939). Married: Daisy Hilda Thompson in 1923. Service Record: Albert served with the Royal Engineers and was posted to France from 1915 to 1916, transferring on 6.7.1918 as Pte.5002, promoted to Corporal and issued with a new number in 1917 as Cpl.201724 in 1/4th Battalion, Suffolk Regiment. He re-enlisted in 1928 as Gnr.778959 with the Royal Artillery.[7] Died: Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk in 1977.
Whittle, Archie William – Born: Long Melford, Suffolk on 20.5.1891.[8] Parents: James Robert Whittle (Coconut Mat Weaver) and Emma [née Prigg] (Horsehair Weaver). Family Connections: Brother to Walter Wallace Whittle [b1895] and Percy Harold Whittle [b1898]. Home: Liston Lane, Long Melford (1901), Little St Marys, Long Melford (1911), South Primrose Hill, Chelmsford, Essex [1915] to (1921), Lyston, 131 Writtle Road, Chelmsford, Essex (1939) to [1963]. Occupation: Cowman on Farm (1911), Ball Cutter [1915], Window Cleaner (1921 to 1939). Married: Ella Woodcraft Sparkes in 1922. Service Record: Archie was conscripted on 31.11.1915 as Dvr.124351 with the Royal Field Artillery and posted to France from 24.11.1916 and transferring to ‘C’ Battery, CX Brigade, RFA as part of 25th Division. He saw action at the Battles of Messines and Pilckem in June and July 1917, the latter engagement being the opening salvo of the Third Battles of Ypres. On 21.3.1918 the Germans opened their Spring Offensive, forcing British units to make fighting withdrawals miles to the rear. Whittle’s Battery was no exception, fighting a succession of desperate rear-guard actions during which Archie received a gunshot wound to his right arm, serious enough for him to be immediately repatriated to England. He never returned to the Western Front and in November 1918 was issued with a Silver War Badge and discharged as ‘unfit for further service’.[9] Died: Chelmsford, Essex on 7.9.1963.[10]
Whittle, Augustus ‘Albert’ – Born: Edmonton, Middlesex in 1891. Parents: George Whittle of Long Melford (Gardener) and Alice [née Chapman]. Family Connections: Brother to Warwick Neville Whittle [b1893] and cousin of Herbert George Whittle [b1882], Albert John Whittle [b1884] and Henry Charles Whittle [b1887]. Home: The Steamer Inn, Welwyn, Hertfordshire (1901 to 1921). Occupation: Gardener (1911). Service Record: Albert enlisted as Pte.25930 with the Bedfordshire Regiment, later transferring as Pte.149423 to the Machine Gun Corps.[11] Died: Hatfield, Hertfordshire in 1967.
Whittle, Charles John Poulter aka Charles Poulter* – Born: Long Melford, Suffolk on 23.5.1892.[12] Parents: Robert Thomas Whittle aka Robert Poulter [Engine Driver] and Emma Maria [née Younger]. Family Connections: Brother to Robert Harry Poulter Whittle [b1878], Thomas Harry Whittle [b1879], George Poulter Whittle [b1885] and Albert Poulter Whittle [b1896]. Home: Hall Street, Long Melford (1891* and 1911), Hall Street, Long Melford [1915], York House, Colchester Road, White Colne, Essex (1939). Occupation: Ostler at Hotel (1911), Motor Driver [1915], Gravel Pit Manager (1939). Married: Stella Ivy Morton in 1921. Service Record: Charles enlisted on 12.8.1914 as Dvr.MS/3373 with 66th [Mechanical Transport] Company of No. 7 Ammunition Sub Park, Army Service Corps, being posted to France from 5.10.1914 as part of VI Corps. On 5.7.1915 he was transferred to No. 8 Ammunition Sub Park as part of VIII Corps. This latter unit was stationed on the Somme during the Offensive of 1916 and at the Second Battle of Arras in 1918 among others. Driver Whittle returned to England in March 1919, receiving his discharge a month later.[13] Died: Colchester, Essex in 1983.
Whittle, Clifford Albert – Born: Colchester, Essex on 5.5.1896.[14] Parents: Albert Whittle of Long Melford (Boot Laster) and Jessie [née Sparks]. Family Connections: Cousin of Percy William Whittle [b1891] and Clifford Martin Whittle [b1893]. Home: 23 St Leonards Road, Colchester, Essex (1901), High Street, Dedham, Essex (1911 to 1921), 21 Cavendish Avenue, Colchester (1939). Occupation: Telegraph Messenger (1911), Boot and Shoe Repairer (1921 to 1939). Married: Maud E. Gibbons in 1930. Service Record: Clifford enlisted on 2.9.1914 as Pte.18994 with 3rd [Reserve] Battalion, Essex Regiment, transferring on 9.9.1915 to 10th [Service] Battalion and posted to France as part of 53rd Brigade, 18th [Eastern] Division. Within weeks however he had been transferred Spr.156035 to 179th Tunnelling Company, Royal Engineers in the Thiepval-La Boisselle sector of the Western Front, where the unit was employed digging under German front-line positions during the 1916 Somme Offensive. On 2.8.1917 he received a gunshot wound to his left arm and hand, transferring to 173rd Tunnelling Company on 18.4.1918 ahead of his discharge in February 1919.[15] Died: Colchester, Essex in 1968.
Whittle, Clifford Martin – Born: Bromley-by-Bow, London on 18.12.1893.[16] Parents: Alfred William Whittle of Long Melford (Railway Signalman) and Theodora [née James]. Family Connections: Brother to Percy William Whittle [b1891] and cousin of Clifford Albert Whittle [b1896]. Home: Fairport Road, Bromley-by-Bow, London (1901 to 1911), 31 Augusta Street, Poplar [1914], 42 Downhills Park Road, Tottenham, Middlesex (1921), 42 Stafford Avenue, Ilford, Essex (1939). Occupation: Tailor’s Trimmer (1911), Clerk [1914], Dock Labourer [1916], Shipping Clerk (1921), Dock Foreman (1939). Married: Florence Downey in 1914. Service Record: Clifford enlisted on 7.8.1914 as Pte.2131 with 1/17th [County of London] Battalion, London Regiment, transferring on 1.12.1914 to a Reserve Battalion before his discharge on 6.4.1916. He re-enlisted on 10.7.1916 as Pte.25227 in ‘G’ Company, 16th [Transport Workers] Battalion, York and Lancaster Regiment, being promoted on 24.5.1917 to Acting Sergeant receiving his discharge in February 1919.[17] During the Second World War he was an Air Raid Precaution Warden for the Port of London Authority.[18] (1939).
Whittle, Ernest Henry – Born: Long Melford, Suffolk on 11.1.1885.[19] Parents: William Harry Whittle of Long Melford (Coconut Mat Maker) and Emma [née Whittle] (Horsehair Weaver). Family Connections: Brother to Percy Albert Whittle [b1882]. Home: High Road, Rayleigh, Essex (1911), 19 Wratting Road, Haverhill (1921), 34 Habgood Road, Loughton, Essex (1939) to [1947]. Occupation: Railway Porter (1911), Railway Guard (1921 to 1939). Married: Ethel May Sizer in 1917. Service Record: Although no definitive military record can be found, Ernest may have been conscripted as Pte.203127 with 2/6th [Cyclist] Battalion, Royal Sussex Regiment. If this assumption is correct, then he may have been posted to Vladivostok in October 1918 and seen action against the Red Army in Siberia during the Russian Civil War.[20] Died: Forest Hospital, Buckhurst Hill, Essex on 4.7.1947.[21]
Whittle, George – Born: Long Melford, Suffolk in 1832. Parents: Thomas Whittle aka Plumm [see his details below] and Rebecca [née Bean]. Home: Smaley Lane, Long Melford (1841), living with Joseph Stevens (Innkeeper) in High Street, Hadleigh, Suffolk (1851), Hall Street, Long Melford (1861 to 1881), Babergh Hall, Acton Road, Great Waldingfield, Suffolk (1891), Pound Hall, Long Melford (1901). Occupation: Ostler (1851), Coconut Mat Manufacturer (1861) to [1907], Farmer (1891 to 1901). Married: Elizabeth Self (1831-1895) in 1855 and Mary Louisa Achurch (widow) in 1896. Commercial Record: George Whittle opened his Coconut Matting Factory behind his house in Hall Street in the 1860s. By 1871 he was providing employment for 70 men, 12 woman and 17 boys; ten years later the workforce had grown to 150. Died: Long Melford on 29.7.1907 and buried to Holy Trinity churchyard.[22]
Whittle, George Frederick – Born: Ipswich, Suffolk on 8.2.1879.[23] Parents: Harry Whittle of Long Melford (Railway Foreman) and Ursula [née Border]. Family Connections: Brother to Harry Edward Whittle [b1883] and Sydney Alexander Whittle [b1890]. Home: 24 New Cardinal Street, Ipswich, Suffolk (1891), 57 Wickham Road, Colchester, Essex (1911 to 1921), 26 Berechurch Road, Colchester (1939). Occupation: Shoeing Smith (1911), Blacksmith (1921), Master Blacksmith (1939). Married: Betsy Ford in 1901. Service Record: George enlisted on 4.6.1915 as a Shoeing Smith, Private later Cpl.89865 with the Royal Field Artillery. He was transferred on 19.10.1915 to 180th Brigade, RFA, being posted to France on 17.2.1916 as part of 16th Divisional Ammunition Column and seeing action at the Battles of the Somme in 1916 and Third Ypres the following year.[24] Died: Colchester, Essex in 1948.
Whittle, George Poulter aka George Poulter* – Born: Long Melford, Suffolk on 16.9.1885.[25] Parents: Robert Thomas Whittle aka Robert Poulter [Engine Driver] and Emma Maria [née Younger]. Family Connections: Brother to Robert Harry Poulter Whittle [b1878], Thomas Harry Whittle [b1879], Charles John Poulter Whittle [b1892] and Albert Poulter Whittle [b1896]. Home: Hall Street, Long Melford (1891* and 1901), Servant at 40 Grosvenor Square, London (1911), Servant at 5 Ashley Place, London [1916] to (1939), 10 Upper Berkeley Street, Mayfair, London [1953]. Occupation: Grocer’s Assistant (1901), Footman (1911), Butler Valet [1916], Butler (1939). Married: Henrietta Cairn McLellan in 1912.[26] Service Record: George was conscripted on 12.12.1916 as Gnr.198043 with VI Reserve Brigade, Royal Field Artillery, posted to France from 17.3.1918 to 24.5.1918 with XCVI Brigade Ammunition Column, RFA as part of 21st Division. During his brief time at the Front the German Spring Offensive was gaining momentum, forcing his unit into a series of defensive actions from 22.3.1918 to the end of April, namely: the Battles of Bailleul, First and Second Kemmel and the Battle of Scherpenberg. On 26.5.1918 Gunner Whittle was transferred to 4th Reserve Brigade, receiving his discharge in January 1919.[27] Died: Westminster, London on 23.6.1953.[28]
Whittle, Harry Edward – Born: Ipswich, Suffolk on 10.4.1883.[29] Parents: Harry Whittle of Long Melford (Railway Foreman) and Ursula [née Border]. Family Connections: Brother to George Frederick Whittle [b1879] and Sydney Alexander Whittle [b1890]. Home: 24 New Cardinal Street, Ipswich, Suffolk (1891 to 1901), 8 Ruskin Road, Ipswich (1911), 6 Russell Road, Ipswich (1921), 35 Brunswick Road, Ipswich (1939), 528 Nacton Road, Ipswich [1951]. Occupation: Draper’s Clerk (1901), Commercial Clerk (1911), Accountant, later Secretary to the Eastern Counties Farm Cooperative Association (1921 to 1939). Married: Jane Annie Miles in 1908. Service Record: Although no definitive military record has been found Harry may have been conscripted as Pte.39253 with the Norfolk Regiment. If this assumption is correct, then he was later transferred as Pte.50432 to the Essex Regiment before moving as Pte.52780 to the Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Regiment.[30] Died: Ipswich, Suffolk on 16.6.1951.[31]
Whittle, Henry Charles – Born: Kingston-upon-Thames, Surrey in 1887. Parents: David Whittle of Long Melford (Fishmonger) and Mary Ann [née Wilson]. Family Connections: Brother to Herbert George Whittle [b1882] and Albert John Whittle [b1884]; also, cousin of Augustus Albert Whittle [b1891] and Warwick Neville Whittle [b1893]. Home: 14 Fairfield Place, Kingston-upon-Thames, Surrey (1891), 58 Cambury Park Road, Kingston (1901), 34 Fairfield Place, Kingston [1914], 25 Havelock Road, Brighton, Sussex (1921). Occupation: Fishmonger’s Assistant [1914], Electrical Work (1921). Married: Mabel Maud Pitfield in 1916. Service Record: Henry enlisted in 1906 as Rfn.9209 with 2nd Battalion, Royal Scots Fusiliers, serving South Africa and Gibraltar before the First World War. He was posted to France on 6.10.1914 as part of 21st Brigade, 7th Division being twice wounded; firstly on 20.10.1914 during the First Battle of Ypres and subsequently on 25.9.1915, the first day of the Battle of Loos. He was later promoted to the rank of Corporal, being issued with a Silver War Badge and discharged on 13.4.1916 as ‘no longer fit for War Service’.[32] Died: Northern Surrey in 1957.
Whittle, Herbert George – Born: Kingston-upon-Thames, Surrey in 1882. Parents: David Whittle of Long Melford (Fishmonger) and Mary Ann [née Wilson]. Family Connections: Brother to Albert John Whittle [b1884] and Henry Charles Whittle [b1887]; also, cousin of Augustus Albert Whittle [b1891] and Warwick Neville Whittle [b1893]. Home: 14 Fairfield Place, Kingston-upon-Thames, Surrey (1891), 34 Fairfield Place, Kingston (1911), 22 Mill Street, Kingston [1917], 83 Middlesex Wharf, Lea Bridge, Clapton, London [1923]. Occupation: Mineral Water Salesman (1911), Coal Merchant & Greengrocer [1917]. Married: Evelyn Steer in 1901. Service Record: Herbert was conscripted on 5.2.1917 as Pte.SE25540 with Army Veterinary Corps, being posted to France from 1917 until his discharge in March 1919.[33] Died: Kingston-upon-Thames, Surrey in 1933.
Whittle, Herbert Tom – Born: Liston, Essex in 1889. Parents: Edgar Charles Whittle of Long Melford (Rural Postman) and Ellen [née Smith]. Home: Church Cottage, Liston, Essex (1891 to 1911), 30 Gough Road, Stratford, West Ham, Essex (1921), 8 Graham Road, West Ham (1939), 18 Ingate, Beccles, Suffolk [1964]. Occupation: Brewer’s Labourer (1911), unemployed (1921), Railway Plate Layer (1939). Married: Ethel Genevieve Dade in 1934. Service Record: Despite being diagnosed with tuberculosis in the previous year, Herbert was considered fit enough by 1915 to be eligible for military service. He was attested as Pte.3726 with 5th Battalion, Suffolk Regiment, being issued with a new service number as Pte.241215 in 1917. It is not known if he was posted overseas.[34] Died: Beccles, Suffolk on 18.1.1964.[35]
Whittle, Oliver – Born: Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk 7.9.1899.[36] Parents: Albert Whittle (Tailor) and Emma Amelia [née Mitchell] (Horsehair Weaver). Family Connections: Brother to William Whittle [b1894]. Home: Westgate Street, LM (1901 to 1911). Died Oliver drowned while bathing in the river Stour at Long Melford near the Stafford Allen Drug works on 9.8.1916 and was buried in Holy Trinity Church, Long Melford on 12.8.1916.[37]
Whittle, Percy Albert – Born: Haverhill, Suffolk on 22.5.1892.[38] Parents: William Harry Whittle of Long Melford (Coconut Mat Maker) and Emma [née Whittle] (Horsehair Weaver). Family Connections: Brother to Ernest Harry Whittle [b1885]. Home: 18 Chauntry Road, Haverhill, Suffolk (1901 to 1911), 4 Church Villa, Church Road, Great Clacton, Essex (1921), 2 Cowland Road, Haverhill (1939), 12 Chainey Pieces, Haverhill [1966]. Occupation: Baker (1911), Assistant Baker and Confectioner at the Clacton Cooperative Stores (1921), Baker and Confectioner (1939). Married: Ivy L. Wilson [d1948] in 1924 and Gertrude Mary Radford in 1949. Service Record: Percy enlisted as Pte. S/4/094791 with the Army Service Corps, transferring as Pte. GS/53274 firstly to 32nd [Service] Battalion, Royal Fusiliers [City of London Regiment], then to 20th, 4th and 2nd Battalions, finally as Pte.127699 to 17th [Service] Battalion, being posted to France on 6.11.1915 as part of 5th Brigade, 2nd Division.[39] Died: Newmarket, Suffolk in 1966.
Whittle, Percy Harold – Born: Long Melford, Suffolk on 14.3.1898.[40] Parents: James Robert Whittle of Long Melford (Coconut Mat Weaver) and Emma [née Prigg] (Horsehair Weaver). Family Connections: Brother to Archie William Whittle [b1891] and Walter Wallace Whittle [b1895]. Home: Liston Lane, Long Melford (1901), Little St Marys, Long Melford (1911 to 1921), Wents Estate Post Office, Sudbury, Suffolk (1939), 6 Humphry Road, Sudbury [1973]. Occupation: Moulder at David Ward & Son Iron Foundry (1921), General Stores and Sub-Postmaster (1939). Married: Phoebe Marguerite Stammers in 1935. Service Record: Percy was a member of the Long Melford Volunteer Training Corps in 1915. He was conscripted on 6.6.1916 as Pte.19996 with the Suffolk Regiment, transferring as Pte.605453 to Prisoner of War Company, Labour Corps and being posted to France from 29.3.1917.[41] Died: Sudbury, Suffolk on 3.10.1973.[42]
Whittle, Percy William – Born: Bromley-by-Bow, London on 17.8.1891.[43] Parents: Alfred William Whittle of Long Melford (Railway Signalman) and Theodora [née James]. Family Connections: Brother to Clifford Martin Whittle [b1893] and cousin of Clifford Albert Whittle [b1896]. Home: Fairport Road, Bromley-by-Bow, London (1901 to 1911), 31 Augusta Street, Poplar, London (1921 to 1939), 7. Melrose Road, Pinner, Middlesex [1969]. Occupation: Dock Labourer (1911 to 1939). Married: Sarah Ann Downey in 1915. Service Record: Percy is recorded as a serving Soldier at his marriage in 1915.[44] Although no definitive First World war record has been found he may have enlisted as Pte. SS/2022 with the Army Service Corps. If this assumption is correct then he was posted to France on 10.10.1914, transferring as Pte.8863(S) to the Royal Marine Labour Corps on 1.2.1917. This latter unit was formed specifically to unload military supplies shipped to continental ports.[45] During the Second World War he was an Air Raid Precaution Warden for the Port of London Authority.[46] Died: Pinner, Middlesex on 26.7.1969.[47]
Whittle, Robert Harry Poulter aka Robert Poulter* – Born: Long Melford, Suffolk on 15.6.1878.[48] Parents: Robert Thomas Poulter Whitte aka Robert Poulter (Engine Driver) and Emma Maria [née Younger]. Family Connections: Brother to Thomas Harry Whittle [b1879], George Poulter Whittle [b1885] Charles John Poulter Whittle [b1892] and Albert Poulter Whittle [b1896]. Home: Smaley Lane, Long Melford (1881), Hall Street, Long Melford (1891*), The Rectory, Church Walk, Long Melford (1901*), Lower End, Daglingworth, Gloucestershire (1911), Gardeners Cottage, Stanstead, Suffolk (1921), Lackford, Suffolk (1939), 7 Dovedale Walk, Bury St Edmunds [1958]. Occupation: Footman (1901), Butler (1911), Gardener (1921 to 1939). Married: Ellen Panes in 1908. Service Record: Robert was an Air Raid Precaution Warden during the Second World War.[49] Died: Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk in 1958.
Whittle, Stanley Clifford – Born: Long Melford, Suffolk on 25.2.1903.[50] Parents: William Rutter Whittle (Brewery Hand) and Rosina Ford [née Ford] (Horsehair Weaver). Home: St Catherines Road, Long Melford (1911), 5 Distillery Lane, Colchester, Essex [1920], 10 Branch’s Cottages, Mersea Road, Colchester [1924 to 1927],[51] Royston Turner Road, Colchester, Essex (1939). Occupation: Carman [1920], Builder’s Labourer (1939). Married: Eva Bessie Balls in 1922. Service Record: Stanley enlisted in 1920 as Pte.7178672 with Leinster Regiment. It is not known if he saw service during the Second World War. Died: Brentwood, Essex in 1980.
Whittle, Sydney Alexander – Born: Ipswich, Suffolk on 18.12.1890.[52] Parents: Harry Whittle of Long Melford (Railway Foreman) and Ursula [née Border]. Family Connections: Brother to George Frederick Whittle [b1879] and Harry Edward Whittle [b1883]. Home: 24 New Cardinal Street, Ipswich, Suffolk (1891 to 1901), 33 Blandford Square, Marylebone Road, London (1911), 27 Lancaster Road, Ipswich (1921), 111 Alan Road, Ipswich (1939). Occupation: Waiter in Spencer Turner and Bolderos’s Drapery Warehouse (1911), Timber Yard Labourer (1921 to 1939). Married: Ada Florence Nice in 1919. Service Record: Sydney enlisted as Pte.23320 with 7th [Service] Battalion, Suffolk Regiment, the unit seeing action during the Somme Offensive of 1916 and at the Battles of Arras and Cambrai the following year, as part of 12th (Eastern) Division’s 35th Brigade.[53] Died: Ipswich, Suffolk in 1953.
Whittle, Thomas aka Thomas Plumm* – Born: Long Melford, Suffolk in 1791.[54] Parents: Thomas Plum and Mary Whittle. Family Connections: Father to George Whittle [b1832]. Home: Smaley Lane, Long Melford (1841), Back Meadow, Long Melford (1851* to 1861). Occupation: Labourer. Married: Rebecca Bean in 1829. Service Record: Thomas enlisted under the surname Plumm in January 1809 as a Private with 4th [King’s Own] Regiment of Foot, giving his age as fifteen. During his seventeen years with the Colours, he saw action during the Peninsular Campaign of 1810 to 1814; at Badajoz and Salamanca in 1812, and Vittoria and San Sebastián in 1813, being wounded in this latter battle. On 18.6.1815 he was part of a reserve brigade, which was not brought into the front line opposite La Haie Sante until late afternoon. The French had fortified the farmhouse with artillery which bombarded Thomas and his comrades, killing 12 and wounding 122 others. Following the defeat of Napoleon the regiment stayed in France until 1818 as part of the army of occupation, moving in 1819 to the West Indies where he was garrisoned until his discharge in April 1826 ‘being worn out by fever and rheumatism in the West Indies’.[55] Died: Long Melford, Suffolk in 1862 and is buried in Holy Trinity Churchyard.[56]
Whittle, Thomas Harry aka Thomas Poulter* – Born: Long Melford, Suffolk on 29.8.1879.[57] Parents: Robert Thomas Whittle aka Robert Poulter (Engine Driver) and Emma Maria [née Younger]. Family Connections: Brother to Robert Harry Poulter Whittle [b1878], George Poulter Whittle [b1885], Charles John Poulter Whittle [b1892] and Albert Poulter Whittle [b1896]. Home: Smaley Lane, Long Melford (1881), Hall Street, Long Melford (1891*), 37 Cleveland Street, Marylebone, London (1901*), 103 Bicklow Road, Hammersmith, Middlesex [1908], 83 Bowker Street, Newton Heath, Manchester [1914], 7 Pearl Street, Osborne Street, Rochdale Road, Manchester [1916], 151 Sudell Street, Manchester [1919]. Occupation: Barman (1901), Labourer [1914]. Married: Minnie Isabella Bricknell in 1908 and Ann Margaret Blackman [widow] in 1914. Service Record: Before the First World War Thomas was a member of 3rd [Militia] Battalion, Suffolk Regiment. He enlisted on 15.9.1914 as Pte.3/9878 with 9th [Service] Battalion, Suffolk Regiment, transferring to 2nd Suffolks and posted to France from 11.11.1914 to 27.4.1915 as part of 8th Brigade, 3rd Division. On 28.4.1915 Thomas was transferred to 10th [Reserve] Battalion, Suffolks based in Colchester, being discharged on 8.7.1916 as ‘no longer physically fit for War Service’ due to chronic myalgia.[58]
Whittle, Walter Wallace – Born: Long Melford, Suffolk on 4.12.1895.[59] Parents: James Robert Whittle of Long Melford (Coconut Mat Weaver) and Emma [née Prigg] (Horsehair Weaver). Family Connections: Brother to Archie William Whittle [b1891] and Percy Harold Whittle [b1898]. Home: Liston Lane, Long Melford (1901), Little St Marys, Long Melford (1911), 108 Upper Bridge Road, Chelmsford, Essex (1939), 10 Widford Close, Chelmsford [1983]. Occupation: Ploughman and Milker for C. H. Westropp of Melford Place (1901) to [1917], Window Cleaner (1939). Married: Margaret Edwards in 1929. Service Record: At the Melford Military Service Tribunal in May 1916 Walter’s employer Charles Westropp applied for his exemption. He argued that it was difficult to get men for this class of work, but said he had some women being taught milking. The outcome is not recorded, however in October exemption was refused. In March 1917 a further application was made by Westropp but was then withdrawn. Walter was conscripted as Pte.202713 with 4th Battalion, Suffolk Regiment. It is not recorded if he served overseas, however this is highly likely as 1/4th Suffolks was stationed near Ypres in Belgium from September 1917 as part of 98th Brigade, 33rd Division; the 2/4th and 3/4th Battalions had either been disbanded or amalgamated with other units by this time. If the assumption that Walter was posted to 1/4th Suffolks is correct, then he would have seen action during the Third Battles of Ypres in September 1917 and at the Battle of the Lys in the following April.[60] Died: Chelmsford, Essex on 17.7.1983.[61]
Whittle, Warwick Neville – Born: Winchmore Hill, Middlesex in 1893. Parents: George Whittle of Long Melford (Gardener) and Alice [née Chapman]. Family Connections: Brother to Augustus Albert Whittle [b1891] and cousin of Herbert George Whittle [b1882], Albert John Whittle [b1884] and Henry Charles Whittle [b1887]. Home: The Steamer Inn, Welwyn, Hertfordshire (1901 to 1911), 54 Bridge Street, Swindon, Wiltshire [1914], Combe End House, Marlborough, Wiltshire [1966]. Occupation: Gardener (1911). Married: Elsa Anne Saunders in 1918. Service Record: Warwick enlisted on 3.9.1914 as Pte.10980 with 1st Battalion, Wiltshire Regiment, being briefly posted to France from 27.1.1915 to 25.2.1915 and again from 20.7.1915 to 14.9.1915. He was returned to England and on 31.3.1917 transferred as Pte.83383 to 166th Protection Company, Royal Defence Corps, moving to 615th [Home Service] Company. Labour Corps by the summer of 1918, receiving his discharge in May 1919.[62] Died: Marlborough, Wiltshire on 12.11.1966.[63]
Whittle, William – Born: Long Melford, Suffolk 26.9.1894.[64] Parents: Albert Whittle (Tailor) and Emma Amelia [née Mitchell] (Horsehair Weaver). Family Connections: Brother to Oliver Whittle [b1899]. Home: Westgate Street, Long Melford (1901 to 1911), High Street, Long Melford (1921), 12 Westgate Street, Long Melford (1939) to [1962]. Occupation: Agricultural Labourer (1911 to 1939). Married: Alice Maud Butcher in 1920. Service Record: Although no definitive military record has been found, Will is mentioned in a letter home from Hayward George Miller Bixby [b1897] as being ‘further back on guard’, suggesting he is serving on the Western Front and may even be a member of Bixby’s own unit, 1st Battalion, King’s Royal Rifle Corps.[65] During the Second World War he was a member of the Local Defence Volunteers in Long Melford, being part of ‘H’ Company, 10th Battalion, Suffolk Home Guard when it was formed in August 1942. His name is recorded in the official tribute to the organization entitled The Lion Roared his Defiance, photographed in and around Long Melford in 1944. He was also a contact point for villagers to report any sightings of enemy parachute or aeroplane landings in the area.[66] Died: Long Melford, Suffolk on 8.4.1962.[67]
Related Biographies
Ambrose, Ernest – Born: Long Melford, Suffolk on 17.1.1878.[68] Parents: John Ambrose (Foreman in Coconut Matting Factory) and Hannah [née Hubbard] (Laundress). Family Connections: Brother to George Ambrose [b1879] and John Ambrose [b1882]; also, brother-in-law of William Charles Sewell [b1881], Maud Sewell [b1882], Edmond Sewell [b1887], Margery Sewell [b1889] and Bernard Esmond Thomas [b1889]. Home: The Green, Long Melford (1881), Church Walk/Row, Long Melford (1891 and 1901), 5 Westgate Terrace, Long Melford (1911 to 1939), 58A Friar Street, Sudbury, Suffolk [1975]. Occupation: Clerk at Whittle’s Coconut Matting Factory in Long Melford (1901 and 1911), Photographic Supplies Dealer [1937], Estate Agent (1939); also, the author of Melford Memories [1972]. Married: Katie Sewell Whittle in 1909 [d1948] and Emily Rebecca Andrews in 1950. Service Record: Ernest joined ‘D’ Company, 2nd [Volunteer] Battalion, Suffolk Regiment in 1895, transferring in 1908 as Sgt.139 to 5th Battalion, Suffolks [Territorial]. He served during the First World War as Company Quartermaster Sergeant No. 139 initially with 3/5th Battalion, Suffolks, transferring on 1.9.1916 to 4th [Reserve] Battalion, Suffolks and later moving to 1/1st Battalion, Cambridgeshire Regiment. Ernest Ambrose was posted to France from 2.11.1917 transferring shortly after as CQMS.205898 to 4th [Extra Reserve] Battalion, Bedfordshire Regiment, as part of 190th Brigade, 63rd [Royal Naval] Division at that time billeted in the town of Poperinghe near Ypres. The Battalion did not move close to the battle zone until 16.12.1917 when it occupied support trenches on Highland Ridge, holding ground won in the previous month, during the Battle of Cambrai. The actual front-line ran along the crest of Welsh Ridge, a parallel feature a mile further east; even at this distance, three men had been killed and ten wounded in their ten days on duty. By Christmas a cold snap had taken hold of the battlefield, lasting to the end of the month, with six inches of snow falling on Boxing Day alone. At 6:30 on the morning of 30.12.1917 the Germans pounded the Division’s position on the snow-covered crest of Welsh Ridge with a short burst of well-aimed artillery fire, over-running the trench as soon as the barrage lifted. The Machine Gun Company of 190th Brigade was already manning the reverse slope of the Ridge as Ernest’s unit was hastily moved up to strengthen the line and halt any further German advance. At least five other Melford men were involved in the defence of Welsh Ridge: Hubert Roy Barnes [b1898], Bertie Alfred Piper [b1893], George Henry Sansum [b1892], Owen Charles Sewell [b1897] and Arthur Edward Whent [b1889]. Their stories are to be found elsewhere in this Roll.[69] In March 1918 Ambrose’s medical status was reclassified as Bi, moving him from front-line combat to a series of units in the rear echelons. He was transferred initially as CQMS.596326 to 951st [Area Employment] Company, Labour Corps, transferring on 20.5.1918 to No. 2 Company, 17th Garrison Battalion, Worcestershire Regiment. During Ernest’s three months with this unit, it was mainly engaged in digging and repairing trenches interspersed with intense periods of training. By the end of August, he had been moved yet again this time as CQMS.616148 to 187th [Prisoner of War] Company, Labour Corps. He remained in France until February 1919 receiving his discharge a week or later. By the terms of his engagement however, he could have been discharged as early as April 1916. His decision to stay on was as a personal favour to his wife’s brother Edmond Sewell [b1887], by acting as his substitute when Sewell received his notice of conscription in March 1916.[70] We can never know if any pressure was brought to bear on Ernest Ambrose to act as Edmond’s substitute, although it should be noted that when the application was brought before the Melford Military Tribunal for consideration, it was Robert Sewell, Ernest’s boss at the Matting Factory, who took on the role of advocate for his nephew Edmond. Died: Long Melford, Suffolk on 5.5.1975.[71]
Hurrell, George Thomas – Born: Long Melford, Suffolk on 3.8.1873.[72] Parents: Sarah Ann Hurrell (Horsehair Weaver) [married Thomas Whittle (Coconut Mat Maker) in 1877]. Family Connections: Half-brother to Albert Whittle [b1876]. Home: Back Meadow, Smaley Lane, Long Melford (1881), Hall Street Yard, Hall Street, Long Melford (1891), Sargents Yard, Long Melford [1895], Crown Inn, Hall Street, Long Melford (1911). Occupation: Coconut Mat Maker (1891 to 1911). Married: Sarah Ann Sargent in 1893. Service Record: Enlisting in 1893 as Pte.3608 with 1st Battalion, Suffolk Regiment George was discharged ‘with ignominy’ 1894. His previous conduct notwithstanding he re-enlisted in August 1895 as Pte.4259 with 1st Battalion, Lincolnshire Regiment, however his time with the Lincoln’s was short-lived being convicted four months later of ‘having made a false answer at attestation’ and was summarily discharged.[73] It is not known if he called for service during the First World War.
Kenney, Morton – Born: Barking, Essex in 1897. Parents: William Henry Kenney (Inland Revenue Officer) and Eleanor [née Whittle] of Long Melford. Home: The Green, Long Melford (1901), Hall Street, Long Melford (1911) to [1934]. Occupation: Booking Clerk for Great Eastern Railway at Clare, Suffolk (1921). Service Record: Morton was conscripted as Spr.229572, later renumbered as WR.263637 with the Railway Section of the Royal Engineers. It is not known if he served on the Western Front.[74] Died: Long Melford on 7.6.1934.[75]
Sandford, William James – Born: Belchamp Walter, Essex on 24.12.1888.[76] Parents: William Sandford and Mary Ann [née Deal]. Family Connections: Brother-in-law of Albert Whittle of Long Melford [b1876]. Home: 2 Croft Cottages, Belchamp Walter, Essex (1891 to 1911), 45 Lower Anchor Street, Chelmsford, Essex (1921), 16 Nursery Road, Chelmsford (1939) to [1963], Hinton Wood, Moor Hall Lane, Danbury, Essex [1981]. Occupation: Agricultural Labourer (1911), Driver for the Anglo-American Oil Company [1915], Engineer’s Clerk (1921), Electrical Engineer’s Progress Chaser (1939). Married: Charlotte Whittle of Long Melford in 1915. Criminal Record: At the Castle Hedingham Petty Sessions on 22.11.1904 the 15-year-old William Sandford was convicted of stealing a pair of stockings and gaiters value three shillings and sentenced to three years and one month in Kerrison Reformatory School for Boys at Thorndon in Suffolk.[77] Service Record: William was conscripted on 10.12.1915 as Pte.18315 with 11th [Service] Battalion, The Queen’s Own [Royal West Kent] Regiment, being posted to France from 6.9.1916 as part of 122nd Brigade, 41st Division. During the September 11th Royal West Kent’s saw action at the Battle of Flers-Courcelette and in October at the Battle of Transloy Ridge; both important phases of the Somme Offensive of 1916. On 7.6.1917, the opening day of the Battle of Messines, Private Sandford received a gunshot wound to the forehead probably from hostile machine-gun fire as the Battalion left its start position at ‘Dammstrasse’ trench. The injury led to the loss of his right eye. On 4.10.1918 he was transferred as L/Cpl.160615 to 587th [Home Service] Employment Company, Labour Corps, being issued with Silver War Badge and discharged in February 1919, because of wounds he had received.[78] Died: Danbury, Essex on 23.7.1981.[79]
Notes – [1] Baptism Register 25.12.1876, Holy Trinity Church, Long Melford.3 [2] Chelsea Pensioners British Army Service Records 1760-1913 [WO 97]. [3] Registers of Habitual Criminals and Police Gazettes, 1834-1934 [ref: MEPO 6/010] and Calendar of Prisons [HO 140/188]. [4] Soldiers’ Documents and Pension Claims, First World War [WO 364]. [5] Service Medal and Award Rolls 1914-1918 [WO 329], and Service Medal and Award Rolls Index Cards 1914-1922 [WO 372]. [6] Baptism Register 6.9.1896, Holy Trinity Church, Long Melford. [7] Soldiers’ Documents, First World War ‘Burnt Documents’ [WO 363], Service Medal and Award Rolls 1914-1918 [WO 329], Service Medal and Award Rolls Index Cards 1914-1922 [WO 372], and Royal Artillery Attestation Record. [8] Baptism Register 4.10.1891, Holy Trinity Church, Long Melford. [9] For details of 110th Brigade’s movements see War Diary [WO 95/2233/3]. See also his Soldiers’ Documents, First World War ‘Burnt Documents’ [WO 363], Service Medal and Award Rolls, First World War, Silver War Badge [WO 329] record [ref: B41916], Service Medal and Award Rolls 1914-1918 [WO 329] and Service Medal and Award Rolls Index Cards 1914-1922 [WO 372]. [10] National Probate Calendar. [11] Service Medal and Award Rolls 1914-1918 [WO 329] and Service Medal and Award Rolls Index Cards 1914-1922 [WO 372]. [12] 1939 Register for Halstead Rural District, Essex, and Death Index. [13] For details of No. 7 and No. 8 Ammunition Sub Park’s movements see War Diaries [WO 95/802/1-2] and [WO 95/833/3-6]. See also his Soldiers’ Documents, First World War ‘Burnt Documents’ [WO 363], Service Medal and Award Rolls 1914-1918 [WO 329] and Service Medal and Award Rolls Index Cards 1914-1922 [WO 372]. [14] 1939 Register. [15] Soldiers’ Documents, First World War ‘Burnt Documents’ [WO 363], Pension Record Cards and Ledgers [ref: 11/M/330547], Service Medal and Award Rolls 1914-1918 [WO 329], and Service Medal and Award Rolls Index Cards 1914-1922 [WO 372]. [16] 1939 Register. [17] Soldiers’ Documents, First World War ‘Burnt Documents’ [WO 363]. [18] 1939 Register. [19] 1939 Register. [20] Service Medal and Award Rolls 1914-1918 [WO 329] and Service Medal and Award Rolls Index Cards 1914-1922 [WO 372]. [21] National Probate Calendar. [22] National Probate Calendar. [23] 1939 Register. [24] Soldiers’ Documents, First World War ‘Burnt Documents’ [WO 363], Service Medal and Award Rolls 1914-1918 [WO 329], and Service Medal and Award Rolls Index Cards 1914-1922 [WO 372]. [25] Baptism Register 6.12.1885, Holy Trinity Church, Long Melford. [26] Suffolk and Essex Free Press 14.2.1912. [27] For details of the unit’s deployment in the Spring of 1918, see 21st Division: Commander of the Royal Artillery’s War Diary [WO 95/2138/4]. See also his Soldiers’ Documents, First World War ‘Burnt Documents’ [WO 363], Service Medal and Award Rolls 1914-1918 [WO 329], and Service Medal and Award Rolls Index Cards 1914-1922 [WO 372]. [28] National Probate Calendar. [29] 1939 Register. [30] Service Medal and Award Rolls 1914-1918 [WO 329]. [31] National Probate Calendar. [32] Soldiers’ Documents, First World War ‘Burnt Documents’ [WO 363], [WO 329 – Silver War Badge ref: 7602], Service Medal and Award Rolls 1914-1918 [WO 329], and Service Medal and Award Rolls Index Cards 1914-1922 [WO 372]. [33] Soldiers’ Documents, First World War ‘Burnt Documents’ [WO 363], Service Medal and Award Rolls 1914-1918 [WO 329], and Service Medal and Award Rolls Index Cards 1914-1922 [WO 372]. [34] Herbert contracted tuberculosis on 5.11.1913 and 14.3.1914; see Tuberculosis Register of Notification from Medical Practitioners, Long Melford [Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk Record Office ref: EF501/4/23]. See also his Service Medal and Award Rolls 1914-1918 [WO 329] and Service Medal and Award Rolls Index Cards 1914-1922 [WO 372]. [35] National Probate Calendar. [36] Baptism Register 27.7.1900, St Marys Church, Bury St Edmunds. [37] Bury Record Office [ref: FL509/4/17] and report of the accident in East Anglian Times 11.8.1916. [38] 1939 Register. [39] Service Medal and Award Rolls 1914-1918 [WO 329], and Service Medal and Award Rolls Index Cards 1914-1922 [WO 372]. [40] Date of birth from Admission Register 10.9.1901, St Catherines Infants School, Long Melford. The Death Index however gives his date of birth as 14.3.1899. [41] For Training Corps article see Suffolk and Essex Free Press 10.3.1915. My thanks to Aubrey Whittle for bringing his father’s record to my attention. See also his Service Medal and Award Rolls 1914-1918 [WO 329] and Service Medal and Award Rolls Index Cards 1914-1922 [WO 372]. [42] National Probate Calendar. [43] 1939 Register. [44] Marriage Register, 30.10.1915 St Matthias Church, Poplar, London. [45] Service Medal and Award Rolls 1914-1918 [WO 329] and Service Medal and Award Rolls Index Cards 1914-1922 [WO 372]. [46] 1939 Register. [47] National Probate Calendar. [48] 1939 Register. [49] 1939 Register. [50] 1939 Register. [51] Electoral Roll. [52] 1939 Register. [53] Service Medal and Award Rolls 1914-1918 [WO 329], and Service Medal and Award Rolls Index Cards 1914-1922 [WO 372]. [54] Baptism Register 10.7.1791, Holy Trinity Church, Long Melford. [55] Chelsea Hospital British Army Service Record [WO 97/0265]. [56] My thanks to Anne Grimshaw for her research and for bringing this man to my attention. [57] Baptism Register 5.9.1880, Holy Trinity Church, Long Melford. [58] For details of 2nd Suffolk’s movements see War Diary [WO 95/1424/1] and Murphy, Lieutenant-Colonel C. C. R. The History of the Suffolk Regiment 1914-1927 [London: Hutchinson and Co, 1928], pp.42-44 and 56-60. Also see his Soldiers’ Documents, First World War ‘Burnt Documents’ [WO 363], Service Medal and Award Rolls 1914-1918 [WO 329], and Service Medal and Award Rolls Index Cards 1914-1922 [WO 372]. [59] Baptism Register 13.2.1896, St Catherines Mission Church, Long Melford. [60] For the Tribunal’s proceedings see Suffolk and Essex Free Press 17.5.1016, 25.10.1916 and 28.3.1917. For details of 1/4th Suffolk’s movements see War Diary [WO 95/2427/2] and Murphy, Lieutenant-Colonel C. C. R. The History of the Suffolk Regiment 1914-1927 [London: Hutchinson and Co, 1928], pp.225-32. Also see his Service Medal and Award Rolls 1914-1918 [WO 329] and Service Medal and Award Rolls Index Cards 1914-1922 [WO 372]. [61] National Probate Calendar. [62] Soldiers’ Documents, First World War ‘Burnt Documents’ [WO 363], Service Medal and Award Rolls 1914-1918 [WO 329], and Service Medal and Award Rolls Index Cards 1914-1922 [WO 372]. [63] National Probate Calendar. [64] Baptism Register 17.4.1895, Holy Trinity Church, Long Melford, however the birth date on the 1939 Register is recorded as 28.9.1894. [65] For evidence of a possible military career see article ‘From the Front’ Long Melford Parish Magazine, September 1916. [66] Published by Marten & Son, Ltd., of Market Hill, Sudbury, Suffolk in 1946. [67] ‘Deaths’ Suffolk Free Press 12.4.1962. [68] Date of birth from Baptism Register 7.4.1878, Holy Trinity Church, Long Melford. [69] For details of 4th Bedford’s and 17th Worcester’s movements see War Diaries [TNA – WO 95/3118/2] and [TNA – WO 95/2601/4]. For an impression of the conditions on the day of the assault on Welsh Ridge see John Nash’s painting Over the Top at the Imperial War Museum in London. [70] For a first-hand account see Ernest Ambrose Melford Memories: Recollections of 94 Years [Long Melford Historical and Archaeological Society, reprinted 2013] pp.118-20. See also his Soldiers’ Documents, First World War ‘Burnt Documents’ [WO 363], Medal Roll [WO 329], and Medal Index Card [WO 372]. [71] National Probate Calendar. [72] Date of birth from Baptism Register 7.12.1873, Holy Trinity Church, Long Melford. [73] Chelsea Hospital British Army Service Record [WO 97] to 1895. The age recorded on enlistment suggests a birth year of 1876. [74] Medal Roll [WO 329] and Medal Index Card [WO 372]. [75] National Probate Calendar. [76] 1939 Register and Death Index. [77] National School Admission Registers and Logbooks 1870-1914 [ref: GB13/13/14]. [78] For details of 11th Royal West Kent’s movements around the time of William’s wounding see War Diary [WO 95/2634/4]. See also his Soldiers’ Documents, First World War ‘Burnt Documents’ [WO 363], Service Medal and Award Rolls, First World War, Silver War Badge [WO 329] record [ref: B186983], Service Medal and Award Rolls 1914-1918 [WO 329] and Service Medal and Award Rolls Index Cards 1914-1922 [WO 372]. [79] National Probate Calendar.
Genealogical Tables
