Coddington Men who served in the
Armed Forces
in
World War I 1914-18
Samuel Alvey – Yorkshire Light Infantry
On the 1901 census he was 8 living in Queen Street, Balderton with his father Samuel 46 (blacksmith), mother Emily 41, brother Richard H 6.
Charles Beckett – Royal Garrison Artillery
He was the son of Samuel and Elizabeth Beckett and he was christened at Coddington Parish church on the 8th November 1896.
On the 1901 census he lived at Well Green, Coddington with his father Samuel 42, mother Betsey 37, Brother John Thomas 7, sisters Louisa 9, Mabel 12.
Thomas Beckett – Sherwood Rangers Yeomanry
He the son of Samuel and Elizabeth Beckett and he was christened at Coddington on the Parish church on the 3rd June 1894.
Frank Booth –Royal Navy
Frank was born on the 23rd February 1881; his parents William and Annie Booth had him baptised at the Wesleyan Chapel on the 5th April 1881.
On the 1881 census aged 1 month he lived in Coddington with his parents:- William 36 (bricklayer), Annie 27, brothers Harry 5, John Taylor 4, and sister Amy Helen 1.
On the 1891 census aged 10 he lived in Balderton Lane, Coddington with his parents William 46 (farmer & builder) Annie 38 sisters Nellie 11, Alice 2 and brothers Harry 15, Taylor 13, Ernest 6, George 4.
George Booth – Transport Service
He was born on the 13th June 1886 the son of William and Annie Booth and was baptised at Coddington Wesleyan Chapel on the 18th of January 1887.
Henry Brownlow – 7th Battalion Durham Light Infantry
Henry the son of Edward and Kate Francis Brownlow and was christened on the 22nd of October 1899.
On the 1901 census Thomas Henry Brownlow lived in Newark Road, Coddington with his father Edward 33 (Blacksmith), and mother Kate 35.
Edwin Briggs – Notts. & Derby Regiment
Albert Bryan – Northumberland Fusiliers
Wounded in France 15th September 1916.
He was christened in Coddington Parish Church on the 15th November 1896, his parents being Arthur & Elizabeth Bryan.
On the 1901 census he lived on Beckingham Road, Coddington with his father Arthur 28 (labourer iron foundry) mother Lizzie 31 brothers Cyril 10, George 7 and sisters Jessie 2, Florence 1.
Alfred Bryan M. M – 1st Battalion Lincolnshire Regiment
Killed Battle of Pozieres
Alfred was the son of Matilda and Joshua Bryan of Coddington. He was a Sergeant with 1st Btn the Lincolnshire Regiment (no.8950) and was 26 when he was killed during the battle of Pozieres on the Somme on Thursday 21st March 1918. He is buried in Pozieres cemetery Panel 23/4. Alfred was awarded the Silver Medal for Military Valour (Montenegro).
He was christened at Coddington Parish Church on the 13th November 1892.
On the 1901 census he lived in Church Lane, Coddington with his father Joshua 52 (Agricultural labourer), his mother Matilda 43, his brothers Joshua 14, Walter Leonard 2, Thomas 20 and sisters Alice E 12, Hannah H 18 (her son Frank 1), Mary A 6.
Joshua F Bryan M.M – 1st Yorkshire Regiment
Wounded in France
He was the son of Joshua and Matilda Bryan and he was christened at Coddington Parish church on the 17th October 1886.
On the 1891 census he lived in Church Lane, Coddington with his father Joshua 42, mother Matilda 33, brothers John12, Thomas 10, sisters Hannah 8, Ellen6, Alice 2.
Military Medal for Coddington Soldier
“Mr and Mrs Joshua Bryan, of Coddington, have the satisfaction of having two sons, each of whom now posses the Military Medal. The more recent award was made to Sergeant J.F. Bryan; the previous award was made to Sergeant A. Bryan. The gallant sergeant was born at Coddington, and at the age of 18 joined the Yorkshire Regiment and was for some time in India. Being on the reserve when war broke out, he was called up, and on October 4th 1914, sailed for France. He had only been out for a few weeks when he was wounded. He came back to England and was in hospital at Colchester, but not for long, for he was out at the front again in March, and was again wounded in July. This time he remained in France, and after a short spell was once more on the front line trenches. In February of last year he was granted a well earned week’s leave to come home. Sergeant J.F. Bryan was sent home no details as to the gallant deed he must have performed to obtain the coveted award of the Military Medal, except for stating that he captured a German machine gun.
Mr and Mrs Bryan are too be congratulated on the splendid records of their sons, and it may be mentioned that in addition to his Military Medal, Sergeant A. Bryan has received a silver medal, the 5th order of Merit of Montenegro”. Published in the Newark Advertiser
Walter Leonard Bryan – 1st Battalion South Staffordshire Regiment
Killed Battle of Loos
He was a private with the 1st Battalion South Staffordshire Regiment (No. 16193). He was killed on Saturday 25th September 1915 during the battle of Loos. His name is commemorated on the Loos Memorial, sited on Dud Corner Cemetery, in the village of Loos-en-Gohelle, about 5 kilometres North West of Lens.
Walter Leonard was the son of Matilda and Joshua Bryan and was christened at Coddington Parish church on the 5th March 1899
Joshua Bryan the father of Alfred, Joshua and Walter Leonard and husband of Matilda died aged 69 on the 27th December 1917 and is buried in Coddington Church yard.
Cyril Bryan – Sherwood Rangers Yeomanry
Cyril the son of Arthur and Sarah Elizabeth Bryan and they was christened at Coddington Parish church 5th March 1891.
On the 1901 census he lived on Beckingham Road, Coddington with his father Arthur 28 (labourer, iron foundry), mother Lizzie 31, brothers Albert 4, George 7 and sisters Jessie 2, Florence 1.
Ernest James Bryan – Army Service Corps (Motor Transport)
He was the son of Henry and Louisa Bryan and was christened at Coddington Parish church on the 8th March 1885.
On the 1891 census he lived at 12, Lime Grove, Long Eaton, Derby with his father 28 (Groom, Coachman), his mother Louisa 27, and brother Helby? 13 (groom).
On the 1901 census he lived at Ricket Lane Lodge, Blidworth with his father Henry 38 (Coachman), his mother Louisa 37 and sisters Elsie 8, Winifred 4.
Ernest’s father Henry died on the 2nd April 1925 aged 62 and his mother Mary Louisa died on the 28th January 1939 and they are buried in Coddington Church yard.
Ernest Bryan MM – 8th Battalion Royal Lancaster Regiment
He was the son of Robert and Annie Bryan (née Marshall), he was born on the 24th August 1899. On the 1901 census he lived with his parents and their five youngest children in Newark Road, his father was a farm labourer.
In 1915 he lied about his age and managed to enlist aged only 16 in the 8th Bn Royal Lancaster Regiment (Regt no 41078).
We believe that hr won his Military Medal for “goimg into no man’s Land to bring a wounded officer back to the lines”. He was wounded and sent to hospital.
Ernest Godfrey Burgess – 6th Battalion Lincolnshire Regiment
Ernest Godfrey was the son of John and Mary Ann Burgess of 116, Beacon Hill, Newark, born 8th April 1892 at Battersey, Surrey. In 1906 he started work at Ransome & Marles as an apprentice iron moulder.
Ernest enlisted on the 28th August 1914 (Reg No 10530), appointed Lance Corporal on the 5th October 1914, posted to the Balkans on the 18th July 1915 and was acting Corporal b on the 8th August 1915. He was seriously wounded and had is leg amutated because a GSW to his right thigh became gangrenous. He was discharged on the 14th June 1916 as permanently and totally disabled for military service.
In August 1923 he married Lily Henton, theyhad three daughters Edna, Sylvia Ann and Gillian. Ernest was eventually fitted with an articicial leg and used to ride to work on an adapted one-pedal bicycle to Ransome & Marles, where he was a ball bearing inspector. He died in 1972.
Charles William Cant – 2nd Battalion Yorkshire Regiment
Killed in France
Charles William was a Company Sergeant Major with the 2nd Battalion Yorkshire Regiment (no. 7897) and was 30 when he was killed in France on the 1st July 1916. He is buried at Dantzig Alley British Cemetery, Mametz, (Memorial 43). He was the husband of Alice Maud Cant, 64 Elphick Road, Newhaven, Sussex.
On the 1891 census he lived at Springs Farm, Harlaxton, Lincolnshire (where he was born in 1886) with his father John W 28 (Agricultural Labourer) his mother Sarah E 26, his brother Walter 2 and sister Annie 4.
On the 1901 census he lived in Church Lane, Coddington with his grandmother Sarah 66 (Charwoman) his brother Walter 12 and sister Annie 14.
Walter Cant – 2nd Leicestershire Regiment
On the 1891 census he lived at Springs Farm, Harlaxton, Lincolnshire (where he was born in 1889) with his father John W 28 (Agricultural Labourer) his mother Sarah E 26, his brother Charles William 5 and sister Annie 4.
On the 1901 census he lived in Church Lane, Coddington with his grandmother Sarah 66 (Charwoman) his brother Charles William 15 and sister Annie 14.
William Carby – Argyll & Sutherland Highlanders
George Henry Claricoates Petty Officer Stoker
Drowned with his ship “H.M.S. Hope”
“He drowned when his ship “HMS GOOD HOPE” was sunk on Sunday 1st November 1914. His death is recorded on Panel 3 of the Portsmouth Naval Memorial as Petty Officer Stoker George Henry Clarricoates.
His obituary in the Portsmouth Evening News 24/11/1914 page 4:- Clarricoates – On November 1st by the sinking of H.M.S. Good Hope, George Henry Clarricoates , P.O., aged 29, beloved husband of Ethel Clarricoates, 11, Haslemere Road, Portsmouth. Not lost, but gone before”.
“Special note: – “HMS Good Hope” was a Drake class armoured cruiser, the flagship of Rear Admiral Sir Christopher Craddock. Crewed mainly by reservists, she was sunk with all hands on board on 1st November 1914, in the first naval engagement of World War 1, at the Battle of Coroner off the coast of Chile. The German ships involved included the “Scharnhost” and the “Gneisenau” under the command of Count Maximilian von Spee”.
On the 1901 census George Henry aged 3 (born at Scopwick Heath, Lincolnshire) lived at Scopwick Road, Ashby de la Zouch with his father 36 (agricultural labourer) his mother Hannah 32, his brothers Harold 1, John Thomas 4 and sisters Ethel 8, Flora 10.
Thomas William Catton – 8th Battalion Sherwood Foresters
Military record: he was the Coddington Police Constable, joined 17 May 1915 Reg No 171267. After promotion through the ranks he was commisioned second lieutenant in the 3rd Bn Lincolnshire reg 30 May 1917, shot in the back and stomach at Ypres 4 Oct 1917 and graded as disbled. He fought on being posted to Ireland Jan 1918, promoted to Lieutant 30 Nov 1918. Demobed 13 Mar 1919 and awarded the Silver War (Wound) Badge.
Benjamin Crampton – Royal Marines
On the 1901 census he lived in Coddington aged 6 (born 1895 Donnington, Lincs.) with his father David 29 (employed malster) his mother Martha 26, his brother Cyril 2 and sister Minnie 10. Military Service record: joined the Royal Marine Light Infantry 22 Jun 1912 (Reg No PLY 15744).
George Edward Cullen – 2nd Light Horse Brigade (Australian)
He was born on 2nd December 1893, his parents were Richard and Sarah Ann Cullen and he was baptised at Coddington Wesleyan Chapel on the 31st December 1893.
On the 1901 census aged 7 he lived in Balderton Lane with his parents Richard 30 (bricklayers Labourer) Sarah A 28, sisters Alice M. 8, Mabel 5, Hilda 3 and brother Frederick 1 month.
Arthur Derry – 6th Battalion Black Watch
Arthur the son of William and Harriett Derry was christened at Coddington Parish church on the 14th March 1887.
On the 1891 census he lived in Main Road, Coddington aged 4 with his father William 37 (Waggoner) mother Harriett 33, sisters Mary E 13, Florence 11, Violletta 9, Minnie 6 and brother Frank 8 months.
On the 1901 census he lived in Main Road, Coddington with his father William 48 (agricultural labourer) his mother Harriett 43, sister Violet 19 and brother Frank 11.
Frank Derry – Yorkshire Regiment
Frank the son of William and Harriett Derry was christened at Coddington Parish church on the 31st August 1890. Military Sevice record: joined Sherwood Foresters 3 Nov 1915 (Reg No 29774). Transferred to Yorkshire Regiment and posted at hom,e until 5 Jun 1916. He served in France from 5 Jan 1916 – 20 Feb 1919.
John William Fryer – Transport Service
He married Sara Eliza Parker in August 1905. Military Service record: Bn Sherwood Foresters Machine Gun Corps Regt No 81773. Posted to France 12 Feb 1917, on the 22 Feb 1918 dischared and returned to Coddington with a weekly pension of 27s 6d.
Bertie Gash – 3/6 Cheshire Regiment
He was born on the 25th August 1891; his parents were James and Martha; he was baptised at Coddington Wesleyan Chapel on the 29th September 1891.
On the 1901 census he lived at Branston, Lincs. aged 9 with his father James 43 (agricultural labourer) and mother Martha 47.
Thomas Glanville – Royal Garrison Artillery
George Goodband – Canadian Rifles
George the son of William and Lavina was christened at Coddington Parish church on the 22nd March 1888.
On the 1901 census aged 13 he lived in Coddington with his father William 38 (agricultural labourer), his mother Lavina 36, sisters Lily 10, Grace 3, May 10 months and brother William 6.
William Goodband – 5th North Stafford Regiment
His father William died on the 9th August 1904 and is buried in Coddington Church yard.
Charles Gomer – Army Service Corps. Formerly Sherwood Rangers Yeomanry
Charles the son of Charles and Elizabeth Gomer was christened at Coddington Parish church on the 4th February 1884.
On the 1891 census Charles aged 7 lived in Newark Road, Coddington with his father Charles 42 (Butler for James Thorpe) his mother Elizabeth 38, sisters Edith 9, Elizabeth 4 and brother Thomas 1.
On the 1901 census aged 17 lived in Newark Road, Coddington with his mother Elizabeth 48, sisters Edith 19, Elizabeth 14 and brother Thomas 11.
On the 1901 census his father was living at 53, Lyall Mews, St. George Hanover Square, Knightsbridge (Butler for Henry Stevens; also living in at the house was Joseph Ragsdale13 houseboy from Coddington).
Thomas Gomer – Cyclist Corps
On the 1891 census Thomas aged 1 lived in Newark Road, Coddington with his father Charles 42 (Butler for James Thorpe) his mother Elizabeth 38, sisters Edith 9, Elizabeth 4 and brother Charles 7.
On the 1901 census aged 11 lived in Newark Road, Coddington with his mother Elizabeth 48, sisters Edith 19, Elizabeth 14 and brother Charles 17.
Horace Grocock – 20th Hussars
Wounded in France
On the 1901 census aged 7 he lived at Barnby in the Willows with his father J.T aged 39 (beer house keeper & farmer) his mother Theodosia 40 brothers R.T. 16, Felix 9 and sisters Adelina 4, Claniss A 13, Doclina 1, Maud Ruth 10. Military Srvice record: 20th Hussars, attached Royal Horse Gds; Machine Gun Corps; 13RCR, 14th Hussars, Regt No 6470, 41969, 6470, 7815988.
Harold Monarch Hendry – Army serrvice Corps – Transport Service
Albert Henton – 1st Lincolnshire Regiment Severely
Wounded in France
On the 1901 census he lived on The Green, Coddington aged 13 (born 1888 Langford Moor) with his father John 46 (malster employed) his mother Eliza 43, sister Ada 20 and brothers David 11, Harry 3 and John T 18.
Alfred Henton – 22nd Btn. Northumberland Fusiliers
Killed in France
The Commonwealth War Graves Commission lists Alfred as “Son of Arthur Henton of Kneeton, Past Bridgeford, Nottingham, late of Coddington, Newark”. He was a Private with 22nd (Tyneside Scottish) Btn. Northumberland Fusiliers (No. 60418). He was killed on Thursday 11th April 1918, aged 25. He was laid to rest with Charles Young in the Cabaret-Rouge British Cemetery in the village of Souchez, Grave ref. XX.C.5.
Alfred born on the 29th January 1893 the son of Arthur and Ellen; he was baptised at Coddington Wesleyan Chapel on the 26th March 1893.
On the 1901 census he lived in Coddington aged 8 with his father Arthur 29, mother Ellen 30 and Sisters Alice 5, Grace 6.
Arthur Henton – Notts & Derby Regiment
On the 1891 census he lived at Langford Moor aged 6 (born 1885 Langford) with his father John 38 (horseman), his mother Eliza 35, sisters Jane 11, Ada 10 and brothers John 8, Albert 4, David 2.
On the 1901 census he was a Waggoner for Robert Priestley living at Highfield House, Stapleford. he died in 1945 and is buried in Coddington Church yard.
David Henton – Notts. & Derby Regiment
David the son of John and Eliza was christened at Coddington Parish church on the 26th March 1891.
On the 1901 census he lived on The Green, Coddington aged 10 (born 1891 Langford ) with his father John 46 (malster employed), his mother Eliza 43, sister Ada 20 and brothers Harry 3, Albert 3 and John T 18.
Harry Henton – Notts. & Derby Regiment
On the 1901 census he lived on The Green, Coddington aged 3 (born 1898 Langford) with his father John 46 (malster employed), his mother Eliza 43, sister Ada 20 and brothers David 11, Albert 3 and John T 18. Military Srervice record:Regt No 305704
John Judson – Royal Artillery
On the 1891 census his family lived at Well Green, Coddington, William 37 (head) his wife Sarah R 33 (born Coddington) and their family Alfred W 11, Winifred 9, Flora 7, Daisy 5, Alice 3.
On the 1901 census aged 7 he lived in Main Road, Coddington with his father William 48 (agricultural labourer), and sisters Daisy 15, Ivy 5. (His mother Sarah R not found on this census).
He died on the 10th November 1962; his wife Annie died on the 18th March 1982 and they are both buried in Coddington Church yard, the inscription on his slate gravestone states “Served in France R.F.A 1914 – 18
Charles Richard Lee – Army Service Corps
Two sons of Reuben and Sophia Lee sered in the war. Charles richard and George Moore Lee. charles was baptised at Coddington Church 1 Oct 1880. The family lived in Newark road and farming 200 acres. Military Service record: Army Service Corps & Royal Army Service Corps (Transport Force) Regt No t/567,T4/249814,S/28115. He went to France in 1915 after being promoted to Sergeant.
George Moore Lee DSM – Royal Navy
George was born in Coddington on 10 Aug 1881. In 1901 aged 19 he was an Able Seaman based at Penzance Dock, Cornwall. In 1911 he was a Petty Officer 2nd Class (Seaman) No 190273 based at Southampton
William Lee – Notts. & Derby Regiment
On the 1901 census he lived in Balderton Lane, Coddington aged 4 (born 1897 Coddington) with his father Edward 42 (corn miller & farmer), his mother Hannah E 39, sisters Caroline M 6, Dorothy 5, Eleanor 7, Mabel 2, Mary 8, and brother Samuel 1. Military Service record: Regt No 47347, posted to Lancashire Fusiliers Regt No 2260, released from service 31 Oct 1919.
Charles Moss – Royal Engineers
On the 1891 census he was aged 4 living in Newark Road, Coddington living with his mother a widow, aged 39 (Laundress), his sisters Edith 15 and Blanche 14 (his father was Mathew Moss born in 1853 Newark, he must have died between 1881 and 1886).
On the 1901 census he lived in Newark Road aged 14 with his widowed mother Eliza 49 and sister Blanche 24.
Harold Mabbot – Army Service Corps.
Harold was christened in Coddington Parish church on the 28th July 1892; his parents were Richard & Fanny Mabbot.
On the 1901 census aged 9 he lived in Main Road, Coddington with his father Richard 50 (horseman), his mother Fanny 48, sisters Maggie 15, May 11 and brothers William 22, George 20.
George Noble – Durham Light Infantry
On the 1891 census aged 5 lived at “The Rymes”, Sutton on Trent with his father John 43 (farmer), mother Eliza 31, sisters Louisa 10, Bertha 6, Albert Edward 3, John Nathan 1.
On the 1901 census he was a farm servant aged 15 (born 1886 Sutton-on-Trent) living in Beckingham Road, Coddington with William & Mary Else.
Fred Parkes – Army Service Corps.
Fred was christened on the 17th March 1893 at Coddington Parish Church; his father was a local Publican along with his wife Emily.
On the 1901 census aged 8 he lived at “The Plough”, Coddington with his father Samuel 34 (farmer), his mother Emily 42, sisters Annie 17, Maggie 15, Mabel 13, Lily 5, Elsie 7 and brother Alfred 2.
Fountain Picksley – Grenadier Guards
He was born in Coddington in 1876, on the 1891 census he lived at Rosedale Farm, Balderton Lane with his father John 53 (farmer), his mother Sarah A 45 and sister Amy 15.
On the 1901 he lived at home with his parents. By 1912 he was a senior committee member of the NFU. Military Service record: Regt No Pte 26079
Fountain died aged 90 on the 2nd November 1966 and is buried in Coddington Church yard.
Arthur Ragsdale – Coldstream Guards
Arthur the son of George and Sarah Ragsdale was christened at Coddington Parish church on the 20th November 1892. On the 1901 census he lived at Well Green aged 8 with his father George 49 (agricultural labourer), mother Sarah A. 48 and sisters Charlotte 13, Rose 11. Military Service record : Regt No 20463
George Ragsdale MM – Royal Garrison Artillery
George the son of George and Sarah Ragsdale was christened at Coddington Parish church on the 19th October 1884. On the 1891 census aged 6 he lived at Well Green, Coddington with his parents George 38 (agricultural labourer), Sarah Ann 38 sisters Charlotte 5, Rose 1 and Brother Joseph 3. On the 1901 census he was an Agricultural Labourer at Hill Farm, Coddington for Charles R. Daybell.
Military Service record: Regt No 12662. Cpl Ragsdale rose to Sgt, and was awarded the Military Medal.
Joseph Ragsdale – Royal Garrison Artillery
Joseph the son of George and Sarah Ragsdale was christened at Coddington Parish church on the 3rd June 1888.On the 1901 census aged 13 he was a house boy for Henry W Stephens living in at 53, Lyall Mews, St. George Hanover Square, Knightsbridge.
Charles Robert Reynard – Transport Service
On the 1901 census he lived at Hillside House, Newark aged 8 (born 1893 Norton, York) with his father Henry L. 55 (born Eckington, Yorkshire) (“living on own means”), his mother Maria 50 (born 1851, Paris) sisters Helen E 18 (born Chile), Henrietta 16 (born Chile) and brother Henry William 10 along with three servants.
Henry William Reynard
On the 1901 census he lived at Hillside House, Newark aged 10 (born 1891 York) with his father Henry L 55 (born Eckington, Yorkshire) (living on own means), his mother Maria 50 (born 1851, Paris) sisters Helen E 18 (born Chile), Henrietta 16 (born Chile) and brother Charles Robert 8 along with three servants.
George Lancelot Reynolds – Notts. & Derby Regiment
He was christened in Coddington Parish Church on the 15th May 1898; his parents were Walter Erasmus & Phoebe Reynolds.
On the 1901 census he was aged 3 living in Church Lane, Coddington with his parents Walter 27 (malster worker) Phoebe 27, sister Annie E 1 and brother Raymond 4. Military Service record: Regt No 11996
Raymond Reynolds – 5th North Stafford Regiment
Raymond was born at Staythorpe, Notts in 1897, before the family moved to Chapel Lane, Coddington. In 1911 Raymond was a malster’s labouer. Military Srvice record: Regt No 203300 N Staffs; No 235168 (King’s Liverpool Regiment); T459554 Army Service Corps – Horse Transport.
Walter Ernest Reyolds – Notts & Derby Regiment
Walter Ernest was born at Averham, Notts in 1894. In 1911 he was a malster’s labourer living at home.
William Arthur Richards – Sherwood Rangers Yeomanry
Willam arthur was born on the 17 Apr 1899 and baptised at Coddington Church. In 1901 his parents Harry (Agricultural labourer) and Susannah (nee Daniel) lived at Beaconfield Farm, by 1911 the family had moved to Main Street. He joined the Sherwood Rangers in 1918 and the war ended whilst he was completing his training on the Lincolnshire Coast.
Thomas Smalley – Royal Flying Corps.
He was the son of William and Eliza Smalley and he was christened on the 8th October 1891 at Coddington Parish church.
On the 1901 census aged 10 he lived in Newark Road with his parents William 51 (woodman) Eliza 46 (née Johnson) and sisters Alice 25, Laura 22, Ethel 12, Ruth 9.
Charles Whadcoat Smith – Chaplain to the Force
Charles was born at Great Woolstone, Buckinghamshire, the youngest son of Coddington’s future vicar, Rev Charles Penswick Smith & Mary Caroline. In 1890 the family moved to the new vicarage in Newark Road. Charles went to Cambridge and then took holy Orders. When war broke out Charles became a military chaplain (Padre), but we have no record of his wartime service.
Francis Herbert Smith C.F –
Mesopotamia Expeditionary Force Staff Bengal Ecclesiastical, India
Brother of Charles he was born Dagnall, Buckinghamshire 31 Jul 1877. He was educated at Queen’s College Cambridge, and by 1901 he was on Holy Orders Holy trinity Church, Stratford-upon-Avon. He marriedand emigrated to Mussoorie, a hill station town 2000m up in the Himalyan foothills of Uttarakhand, India. Mussoorie was the HG of 7th Meerut Division, Indian Army and Francis was on the staff of the Bengal Ecclesiastical Service.
He died on the 10th Oct 1948 and is buried in Coddington Churchyard.
Godfrey Edward Tallents DSO – 1st Royal Lancashire Fusiliers
Severely wounded at Gallapoli
He was the son of Godfrey and Eliza Caroline Tallents, he was christened at Coddington church on the 30 Aug 1883. His parents Godfrey & Eliza Caroline lived at Coddington House.
On the 1891 census aged 7 he was a school boarder at “Lyncourt”, Tormoham, Torquay .
On the 1901 census aged 17 he was a Gentleman Cadet at Sandhurst. Then Commisioned in the 3rd Battalion Lancaster Fusiliers (LF) and served with the regiment in West Indies, South Africa, St Helena, Gibraltar & Malta. At the outbreak of war he was Lieutenant with the 1st Bn LD in Karachi, they returned to England landing on the 2 Jan 1915. They were attached to 86th Brigade, 29th Division and assigned to the Gallipoli campaign. At dawn on 25th Apr 1s Bn LF landed on W Beach, to the west of Cape Helles the southernmost tip of the Gallipoli Peninsula. “The 2nd landing party under Capt Tallents were resposible for carrying all tools to the firing line as required”. Godfrey was shot int the jaw during the action, was awarded the DSO. Godfrey was sent to hospital in Malta, before returning to England. He later saw fighting in the 1916 Irish Easter Rebillion. Then in France be became Staff Captain, Brigadier Major and General Staff Officier. He was twice mentioned in dispatches.
He died on the 14th July 1967 and is buried in Coddington Church yard.
Hugh Tallents D.S.O – Sherwood Ranger Yeomanry
He was the son of Godfrey and Eliza Caroline Tallents and he was christened at Coddington Parish church on the 6th August 1885.On the 1901 census he was a boarder at Eton College.
D.S.O. for Major Hugh Tallents
“Major Hugh Tallents, who has been awarded the D.S.O.; is the second son of Mrs Tallents and the late Mr Godfrey Tallents, of Coddington. For many years past he has held a commission in the Sherwood Rangers Yeomanry. He came up with the regiment on embodiment in August 1914, and took part in Dardenelles campaign, the evacuation and the subsequent operations on Eastern battlefields. Although his many friends in Newark will regret the cause of his present stay in the town (the death of his respected father), they will be pleased to be able to personally congratulate him on his well merited honour. It will be remembered that Major Tallents, at a recent function in the Town Hall, made a very favourable impression when he addressed a few words to the company at the invitation of the Mayor. Major Talent’s elder brother (Major G. Tallents, Lancashire Fusiliers) and his brother in law (Liet-Colonel H. Thorpe) had previously been awarded the D.S.O.”.
In 1918 he was elected Town Clerk of Newark and office he held until c1950. Hugh was the senior partner in the Solicitors Godfrey & Tallents.
He died at Fardon Lodge on the 3rd of August 1978 and is buried in Coddington Church yard.
Gervase Thorpe DSO – Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders
Served through Boer war & severely wounded
Gervase The 5th son of James & Anne Thorpe was born on the 10th June 1877 in Argyll. The three years old was at home in Coddington Hall on the Census night 1881.
Gervase joined the Argyll & Sutherland Highlanders in 1897 and served in the Boer War. He took a distinguished part in the crossing of the Modder River (28th November 1899, as described in Mr Louis Creaswick’s history of the Transvaal War) and was at the Battle of Magersfontein (11th October 1899).
He was shot in the chest at Paardeberg (battle dated 18th February and on 27th February 1900 General Piet Cronje surrender of at Paardeburg).
He remained with the Regiment, becoming a Captain in 1904. By the end of 1915 he was a Major and about that time was mentioned in despatches and awarded a DSO. In 1916, at the time of his brother John Somerled death, he was a Colonel on the Headquarters Staff.
He married and had at least two sons; the elder son was called Ian.
In 1927 he was Colonel of the Argyll & Sutherland Highlanders, and in 1929 was a C.M.G. and a Brigadier- General commanding a Brigade at Bordeaux.
General Thorpe who lived with his sister Helen Thorpe in Hundley, Lincs visited Lunga often after his retirement. Nothing has been found of his later career or death, but in September 1944 Lieut. Ian Thorpe, Scots Guards, elder son of Major General and Mrs Gervase Thorpe was killed in action in N.W.Europe.
Major General Gervase Thorpe died in 1962.
Harold Thorpe DSO – Sherwood Ranger Yeomanry
He was the 3rd son of James and Anne Thorpe born on the 17th April 1875 at Pimlico, London and baptised at Coddington Parish church on the 8th June 1875.
Before the Boer War he was a Lieutenant in the Sherwood Rangers. He was promoted within the Sherwood Rangers Yeomanry in 1905 and 1910.
On the 12th July 1909 Captain Harold Thorpe, married Dorothy Marion Tallents of Coddington House at Coddington Parish church.
In World War 1 he saw service in Gallipoli, Palestine and Salonika. In 1914 he was in command of A-Squadron of the Sherwood Rangers Yeomanry. His second-in- command, brother-in-law, Hugh Tallents, took over the squadron at Gallipoli when Harold was promoted. By November 1915 Harold had become temporary Lieut.Colonel and was Commanding Officer of the Sherwood Rangers Yeomanry.
In January 1917 Harold won the D.S.O. and in November was mentioned in despatches. He was then “of Coddington Hall”, and a member of the firm of J. Thorpe & Sons, Malsters’.
After the war Harold lived in Coddington until he died on the 1st of December 1953 and is buried in the family grave in Coddington Church yard.
John Somerled Thorpe MC – 2nd Battalion Scots Guards
Killed in action France
He was the second son of James and Annie Thorpe and he was christened at Coddington Parish Church on the 30th March 1873.
On the 1881 census aged 8 he lived at “Beaconfield Hall”, Coddington with his father James 57 mother Annie 34 sister Cicely Richmend 3, brothers Harold 6, William D 4, Gervase 4 and 13 servants.
On the 1891 census he lived at “Coddington Hall” aged 18 with his father James 67, sisters Helen M 6, Elspeth M 3 and brothers Harold 15, William 14, Gervase 13, Archibald 9 and 8 servants.
The memorial tablet to John Somerled Thorpe can be seen at the back of the village church. John was a Major with the 2nd Btn.Scots Guards, and was killed while acting as temporarily commander on Friday 15th September 1916, aged 44. His wife is listed as Elizabeth Cecilia Thorpe, of “Coomelands”, Pullborough, Sussex. He is buried in the Cornoy Military Cemetery grave ref. Q39, located just north of the D938 from Albert to Peronne, about 10 kilometres east-south-east of Albert, Somme, France. He lived at Coddington Hall and Ardbrecknish, Argylleshire. John joined the Scots Guards in 1893 he served throughout the Boer War and was severely wounded, he rejoined the Scots Guards in 1914 and was twice wounded. Mentioned in dispatches, was awarded Military Cross “For gallantry and coolness in collecting groups of men at Loos and holding a defence position for 3 days and nights until relieved”.
The following article was in the Newark Advertiser:-
“KILLED AFTER MOST GALLANTLY LEADING HIS COMPANY” “BURIED TO THE DIRGE OF THE PIPES”
A wave of sadness and sorrow passed over the town and district on Wednesday evening, when the official, news was received that Major J.S.Thorpe, of Coddington Hall, had been killed in France. Unlike his father, the deceased officer was not widely known in the town as he had chosen the career of a soldier and had not taken an active part in local affairs. But those who knew him best honoured and loved him most. He bore a name of note in this town, a name closely associated with its progress and prosperity. When he succeeded to the family estates, Captain J.S. Thorpe resigned his Commission in the Scots Guards and came to Coddington. Shortly afterwards he married Elizabeth Cecilia Mead, daughter of Canon the Hon. Sidney Mead, of Frankleigh, son of the third Earl of Clanwilliam; sometime British Ambassador at Berlin. There was great rejoicing at Coddington over the event, and the bride and bridegroom were welcomed with much pleasure and festivity.
Mr John Thorpe was always a favourite with tenants and villagers. They recognised and appreciated his genuinely modest and gentle nature, and looked forward to his settling down to the life of the country squire amongst them. For a short term he represented the Balderton Division on the Notts. County Council. He also joined his fathers old regiment the Sherwood Rangers Yeomanry in which he attained the rank of Major. At this period the annual encampment was several times by his kindness held in the Coddington Park or at the Moor, and on these occasions Newark was gay with the green and gold of the popular regiment, which owed much of its strength and efficiency to the Thorpe family. When the Great War broke out, Major J.S.Thorpe was for a time stationed at Retford in charge of the Sherwood Rangers Reserve Regiment. But actuated, as always by a high sense of duty he soon felt called upon to take a more active part in the struggle in which his country was engaged, and in December 1914, he rejoined his old regiment, the Scots Guards, as Captain, soon afterwards taking his place in their ranks at the Front. It was with the Guards he went through the Boer War, and received the Kings Medal with two bars, and the Queens Medal with six clasps for Belfast, Diamond Hill, Johannesburg Driefontein, Modder River, and Belmont. He came through that campaign unscathed, so far as wounds were concerned, but his health suffered and for a time he went to recuperate at Cape Town.
Major Thorpe was a Justice of the Peace for the Counties of Nottinghamshire and Argyllshire and was the owner of the estate of Ardbecknish; in the latter county, in addition to his Nottinghamshire property. He was head of the firm of Messrs Thorpe and Sons, Malsters, and a director of the Newark Advertiser Co. Ltd.
Much sympathy is felt throughout the town and district for Mrs Thorpe and the deceased’s family of young children, two sons and a daughter, in the irreparable loss which has befallen them”.
Concerning the manner of Major Thorpe’s death, and the moving scene of his burial, hard by the field of battle, the following letter in simple terms informs us. It is written by one of the deceased’s fellow Officers:-
Scots Guards: Saturday (Finished Sunday 17/09/1916)
Dear Mrs Thorpe, – John was killed instantaneously by a bullet at short range in the middle of the fight yesterday. Officers near him say he was walking about looking after the men just as unconcernedly (with a rifle over his shoulder) as if he was out on a stroll – not in the thick of battle. No wonder the men of right flank company loved him and carried his body back from the line to bury it in the Military cemetery behind. He is buried – with pipers and his company all out in —. The pipers played the “Flowers of the Forest” marching in, and after the service the “Land of the Leal”. I’ve known John since joining as a very young Ensign in 1900 – it’s a long time ago – but since he has been with the – Battalion I have seen much more of him, and shall miss him so badly.
Yours very truly (signed) J.A. Stirling
Martin Toogood – 26th Manchester Regiment
On the 1891 census aged 6 (born Coddington) he lived at North Killingholme, Lincolnshire with his parents, Henry 45 (gardner), Diana 46, brother George 20 (railway engine cleaner) and sister Edith 8. On the 1901 census he was a “Hall Boy” for Mr Charles B.E. Wright and family; Martin was one of eight servants living in the “Cedars”, Castor, Peterborough.
Military Service recird: Reg No 17510 address 69, Coddington. Transferred to 1st Battalion Manchester Regiment, posted to France. .Promotede to Cpl 13 Nov 1920, later promoted to Sgt. Discharged with a 20% disblement pension 9s 4d.
Arthur W.Walster MM – Sherwood Rangers Yeomanry
Arthur W. (Joe) the son of George and Mary Walster was christened at Coddington Parish church on the 22nd March 1891. On the 1891 census aged 4 months lived in Church Lane, Coddington with his parents George 32 (joiner) Mary 36 sisters Edith 6, Maggie 5, Sarah 4,Louisa 2 and brothers John Thomas 12, James 11, Rowland10, and Fred 8.
On the 1901 census aged 12 lived in Church Lane, Coddington with his parents George 42 (joiner) Mary 46, sisters Edith 17 (dressmaker), Louisa 12, Annie 6, Eleanor 5 and brothers John Thomas 22 (bricklayer),James R 21 (joiner),George R 20 (joiner), William 11 and Harry.1.
Military Service record: Reg No 275025. He served with Major Hugh Tallents in the Gallipoli Campaign and mentioned in the regimental memoirs by Hugh Tallents. The Regiment were evacuated on 2 Nov 1915 to Alexandria, and served in Egypt (1915-16), Macedonia (1916-17), and Palestine (1917-18). Joe was wounded at Mosque Hill near Suffa on 28 Nov 1917. Joe was wounded again on 30 Apr 1918 in an action at Nimrim on the east side of the Jordan Valley. Sgt 275025 William A Walster was awarded the Military Medal.
Fred Walster – Notts & Derby Regiment
Frederick the son of George and Mary Walster was christened at Coddington Parish church on the 12th November 1882. On the 1901census he was a baker living with William H. Ash (grocer & baker) at 2, Queens Road, Newark.
Military Service record: Regt No 15418, 616162 Sgt. He served in the Gallopli campaign.
John Thomas Walster MM – Royal Field Artillery
John Thomas the eldest son of George and Mary Walster was christened at Coddington Parish church on the 8th September 1878. In 1901 he was a proffesional cricketer. By 1911 he lived at Barnby with his wife and four children. John was now a gardener.
Military Service record: enlisted 19 Jan 1915 Regt No L23207. Promted to Cpl 2 May 1915 transferred to Royal Field Artillery. 12 Jan 1916 disembarked at Havre, Army B213 France. 29 Jun 1918 admitted to hospital Boulogne with an R1 Hernia injury. He returned to England 31 Mar 1919. MM (London Gazette 29.8.1918)
William Walster – Sherwood Rangers Yeomanry
William (Billy) the son of George and Mary Walster was christened at Coddington Parish church on the 31st July 1892.
Military Service record: Regt 1744 Pte: Corps Hussars Regt No 275182 Pte, Egypt.
John Ellis Ward – York & Lancaster Regiment
The son of John Ellis and Lizzie Ward born on the 13th November 1892 and baptised at Coddington Wesleyan Chapel on the 8th January 1893. On the 1901 census aged 5 he lived with his parents John E 37 (shepherd), Annie 36, George 5, Robert 11, William 11. He was a moulder at the iron foundry aged 18. He played football for Coddington FC.
Military Sevice record: Reg No 57586
George Ward – Royal Navy
The son of John Ellis and Ann Elizabeth Ward born on the 23rd of December 1895 and baptised at Coddington Wesleyan Chapel 27th January 1896.
Robert Ward – 2nd Lincolnshire Regiment
Dangerously wounded, both Legs Amputated
Robert & William were twins, born 1890 to John Ellis & Annie. At 18 he chose a career in the army. By 1911 when he was 21, a soldier living at Victoria Barracks, Portsmouth.
Military Service record: Regt No 8360, enlisted 14 Jan 1908. Posted to Bermuda 5 Aug-19 Oct 1914. Returned to England 4 Nov 1914, posted to France 5 Nov 1914 until 27 Sep 1017
He was severley wounded 3 Sep 1917; Amputated right thigh and “G.S.W. Lt Leg” (gunshot i.e. artillery wound on the left leg). Discharged 20 Nov 1919 with 100% disability and awarded a pension of £2 per week. Robert died aged 95.
William Ward – 4th Battalion Grenadier Guards
William was born in 1890, one of twin sons of John & Annie (see John Ellis above). He was employed as a maltings labourer. Military Record: Regt No 10212,14371, 33521
James Weston – Sherwood Foresters
Charles Wiles – Army Service Corps, Remount Squadron
On the 1891 census aged 10 (born Newark 1881) he lived in Newark Road, Stapleford with his father Charles E 34 (Gardner), his mother Alice 38, and sisters Alice 11, Jessie 7, Agnes 5, and brother Edward 3.
On the 1901 census employed as a woodman he lodged in Newark Road, Coddington with the Smalley family. By 1911 he had married Laura, still emplyed as a woodsman. Military Service record: Regt No 57519, RX/4/215492 & 73119. On the 2 Aug 1916 he was posted to Remount Depot at Romsey. This was set up to train horses & mules for war. It openeed in Mar 1915 and trained c120,000 animals (about 10% of the ASC’s total) during the war.
Robert Henry Worthington – 3rd Bn Lincolnshire Regiment
On the 1901 census he lived in Newark (born 1890 Newark) with his father William 47 (agricultural labourer), his mother Mary 31 and sister Florence 8. Missing record of his military service, he married Mabel and they christened their dughter on 11 Jan 1918 at Coddington Church, when Robert listed his occupation as “soldier”.
Charles William Young – Sherwood Rangers (Notts & Derby Regiment)
Charles was the son of Charles Young, a maltings worker from Coddington, was born at Nettleham, Lincolnshire. His grandmother, Frances (widow of George Young), had remarried Samuel Beckett in 1998. In 1901 & 1911 Charles W and his father were at the Beckett’s home on Balderton Lane.
Military Service record: Regt 275042, arrivede in Egypt on 27Apr 1915. he was in the Household Cavalary & Cavalry of the line (incl. Yeomanry & Imerial Camel Corps).
Died in Palestine
L/Cpl Charles William Young died in Palestine on the 28th November 1917. He was buried in Jerusalem, Yerushalayim (a Jerusalem District), Isreal.
Charles Young – 2nd/8th Battalion Sherwood Foresters
Killed in France
Charles was the son of Frederick & Ellen Young of 28, Lombard Street, Newark. He was a Corporal (No. 305875) with the 2nd/8th Battalion Sherwood Foresters (Notts & Derby Regiment). He was killed on Wednesday 31st October 1917 at the age of 19. He is buried in the Cabaret-Rouge British Cemetery grave ref. XV.N.39, in the village of Souchez, 3.5 kilometres north of Arras on the main road to Bethune.
On the 1901 census Charles aged 3 (born Torpoint, Cornwall) lived in Stapleford Lane, Coddington with his father, Frederick 30 (born Coddington) (gamekeeper), his mother Ellen 25, sister Ethel 5 and brother Frederick 8.
George Richard Young – 2nd/7th Battalion Sherwood Foresters
Killed in action at Flanders
He was a private (no. 202532) in the Sherwood Foresters (Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire Regiment) 2/7th Battalion. He was born in Coddington, enlisted in Newark and was killed in action on the 26th of September1917 in Flanders, France. He is remembered at Tyne Cot Memorial, Northern France panel 99 to 102 and 162 to 162A.
George Richard the son of George and Frances Young was christened at Coddington Parish church on the 29th April 1886.
This list of names is reproduced by kind permission of Coddington Church (now in Alphabetical order) by Fred REED 7th July 2006.
It is hoped that this “Role of Honour” contains wholly accurate information. If you believe this not to be the case, please contact Fred REED at Coddington History Group.
The History Group recognises that people on this list clearly “belong” to their families and the inclusion of their details is meant to be respectful of their sacrifice. As such there is no intention to cause any distress to any of the families involved.
Photographs of any of the people on this list would be appreciated.
Fred REED 01636 671955 fred.nora@tiscali.co.uk 7th July 2006
The following soldiers had connections in Coddington but are not on the Role of Honour
Septimus George Backhouse – 1st Battalion Sherwood Foresters
Killed in action Flanders
Private Backhouse No. 10393 was born in Coddington; enlisted in Newark and killed in action on the 17th November 1914.
On the 1901 census he lived at 16, Baldertongate, Newark aged 17 with his father Joseph 58 (occupation job master stable), mother Mary Ann 58 and brother Digby H 12.
How Corporal George Backhouse Died
“Some few weeks ago we received the bare fact that Corporal George Backhouse of Newark, had been killed in action. His father was a former partner in the Baldertongate livery stables, and two at least of his brothers are still in the town, one of them being Mr F. Backhouse, butcher, Barnbygate. Corporal Backhouse was in the 1st Battalion Sherwood Foresters, and was well known to Pte. Barratt. The Corporal was in the first lot to enter the trenches. Pte. Barratt, during what might be termed those waiting days, was by no means idle, and was told off on the escort of rations, which meant that, others, he went with the supply of food to the trenches, in part of which was Corporal Backhouse. A comrade was on the look out for a tea canteen and having procured it, went to Backhouse, his pal and said ”Now then, old chap, have a drink”. But there was no response, although the young Corporal was still standing in the trenches, with his hands resting on the earthwork and a cigarette between his lips. The comrade repeated the call to “have a drink” and tapped Backhouse upon the shoulder, the impact of which caused the latter to reel and he fell dead, as he evidently had been, though only for a little time. It was evident that the poor fellow had taken a glance through the loop hole, not because he was imbued with a spirit of mere curiosity, but because it was his duty to do so when a “Germhun” bullet, either by management or good luck, on their part, had struck him immediately just beneath the nose and had passed through his head and clean away from near the base of his skull! They reverently laid him down in the trenches, calm and tranquil in the peace of death. At night a number of his comrades were told to bury him and this they did in a grave to himself, just at the back of the trenches., where his remains lay a silent memorial of another gallant sacrifice of one more of Newark’ sons in the fight for freedom and for the destruction of accursed militarism”.
Harry BOOTH – Army Service Corps 666HT Co.
On the 1891 census he lived in Balderton Road, Coddington with his family father William 46 (Farmer & Builder) mother Annie 38, brothers George 5, Taylor 13, Frank 10, Ernest 6 and sisters Nellie 11, Alice 2.
From the Newark Herald Saturday 16th Nov 1918 – “Much sympathy will be extended to Mrs. BOOTH and family, of the Spring House, Newark, in the death of her husband Private Harry BOOTH, of the A.S.C. He was the eldest son of Mr and Mrs W. BOOTH of Coddington, and came to Newark five years ago when he took over the Spring House, and also carried on an extensive business as carting contractor. He was called up on August 25th and stationed at Park Royal. On Tuesday Mrs BOOTH had a letter from her husband, stating he was suffering from influenza, but not seriously; on Thursday, however, a telegram arrived at one o’clock, stating that he was seriously ill at Fulham Hospital. Mrs BOOTH was preparing to travel to London when a further telegram arrived at ten to five, informing her of her husband’s death at two o’clock. The deceased, who was 43 years of age served for two years in the South African war in the Sherwood Rangers Yeomanry”.
Matthew Henry Hart – 6th Battalion Lincolnshire Regiment
Died of wounds Gallipoli
Private Matthew Henry Hart no. 9837 was born in Coddington; enlisted in Market Rasen and died of his wounds at Gallipoli on the 9th December 1915.
On the 1901 census aged 4 he lived in Well Green, Coddington with his patrents William H 46 (malster worker) his mother Selena 28 sister Gertrude 6 and brothers Ernest 8, Charlie 1.
Thomas Marsden – 2nd Battalion Cheshire Regiment
Died of wounds Flanders
Private Thomas Marsden number 28423 was born in Coddington; enlisted in Newark in the 2nd Battalion Cheshire Regiment (formerly 5045, Notts & Derby Regiment). He died of his wounds on the 3rd October 1915 at Flanders.
Fred Tregidge – Corps of Royal Engineers
Killed in action Flanders
Fred Tregidge number 86972 was a Pioneer in the Corps of Royal Engineers (82nd field Coy.,R.E.) he was born and enlisted in Falmouth, Cornwall but his residence was Coddington. He was killed in action at Flanders on the 29th July 1916.
In the Second World War 1939 – 1945;-
Albert Thompson
He was the Son of Arthur and Florence Thompson of Coddington, and the husband of Ivy Joy Thompson and their baby daughter of Coddington. He was a Gunner (No. 145786) with 53 (The Worcestershire Yeomanry) Air landing Lt. Regiment, Royal Artillery. He was wounded in the fighting with an Airborne Division in Normandy; he was sent to a Military Hospital in the South of England but sadly died from his wounds on Friday 7th July 1944, aged 26. He was buried in Coddington Churchyard on the 19th July 1944.
Prior to joining the forces he was on the staff of Lincolnshire Road Car Co.
Fred Reed 7th July 2006