HMT Asia
HMT Asia. (No 652) 12/09/1917
Displacement: 309 grt.
Length: 44.7 m. Beam: 7.1 m. Draught: 3.5 m.
Propulsion: Steam, 1 x boiler Triple Expansion Engine.
Complement: 7 ? officers and men.
Men Lost: 7
Armament: 1 x 3pdr
Displacement: 309 grt.
Length: 44.7 m. Beam: 7.1 m. Draught: 3.5 m.
Propulsion: Steam, 1 x boiler Triple Expansion Engine.
Complement: 7 ? officers and men.
Men Lost: 7
Armament: 1 x 3pdr
The steel trawler Asia was built by Earle's Shipbuilding & Engineering Co. Ltd. (C. & W. Earle), Hull in 1905 for Hull Steam Fishing & Ice Co. Ltd., Hull and registered in Hull as H829.
HMT Asia was on duty as a minesweeper off Lerwick, Shetland. While escorting a convoy into Lerwick it struck a mine a mile off Kirkabister Light. There were reports of a second explosion which may have been depth charges going off as the trawler sank. Seven crew died in the explosion.
HMT Asia struck a mine that had been laid by UC40 on the night of 10/09/1917. Four mine lines were laid, line 2 had 3 mines while the other three consisted of 2 mines in each,
HMT Asia was on duty as a minesweeper off Lerwick, Shetland. While escorting a convoy into Lerwick it struck a mine a mile off Kirkabister Light. There were reports of a second explosion which may have been depth charges going off as the trawler sank. Seven crew died in the explosion.
HMT Asia struck a mine that had been laid by UC40 on the night of 10/09/1917. Four mine lines were laid, line 2 had 3 mines while the other three consisted of 2 mines in each,
Mine lines laid by UC-40 on 10/09/1917
Side Scan Sonar image of HMT Asia top right.
The Wreck Today.
UKHO wreck card 43.
The wreck of the HMT Asia sits in 69m of water and is badly damaged in position 60 06.052N 01 07.400W . The wreck is occasionally visited by technical divers. On one such dive local diver, Kevin Thompson, found the ships bell. It was Kevin's first technical dive after training. The bell was presented to Lerwick Museum where it can act as a memorial to those lost,
(Photos courtesy K.Thompson).
UKHO wreck card 43.
The wreck of the HMT Asia sits in 69m of water and is badly damaged in position 60 06.052N 01 07.400W . The wreck is occasionally visited by technical divers. On one such dive local diver, Kevin Thompson, found the ships bell. It was Kevin's first technical dive after training. The bell was presented to Lerwick Museum where it can act as a memorial to those lost,
(Photos courtesy K.Thompson).
The Crew of HMT Asia
Name - James Arthur Bell
DOB - 19th March 1882
Place of Birth - Hull, Yorkshire
Parents - William and Lucy
Rank - RNR ES 862, Engineman
Service History - James was 5’9” tall when he enlisted into the Royal Naval Reserve on 15th October 1914. His physical features included a tattoo of a sailors head with “Faith, Hope and Charity” on his right arm. A ballet girl, union jack, JB and clasped hands were on his left arm, as was the name Gertrude.
James’ first posting was to the Trawler ASIA, under HALCYON, a vessel which he would have a fatal association with. He served on her for 3 weeks before being attached to HMS VICTORY while a new posting was arranged. He was then sent to COLUMBINE for nine months before serving on the STEPHEN FURNESS for fourteen months. He spent a further fourteen months posted to THRUSH (attached to THALIA) before being sent to HMT ASIA again, tendered under HMS WALLINGTON.
The vessel struck a mine off Lerwick, Shetland and although the wreck was discovered, no bodies were ever found. He is remembered on the Chatham Naval Memorial.
His will stated his effects of £116 were bequeathed to his widow Gertrude Bell - their address given as 3 Harriets Terrace, Bean Street, Kingston-upon-Hull (he married Gertrude Foulds in the early part of 1903.
Pension records however state the claim to be awarded to “unmarried wife” as Elizabeth Sizer (or Todd). From his service records after his death, it was confirmed that James had separated from Gertrude “about” 15 years before - for some time he had been living with Elizabeth. Despite his separation, Gertrude received his war gratuity money, although the Admiralty did question whether any previous prize money should be paid to Elizabeth.
Hull Daily Mail - Wednesday 03 October 1917
Chief Engineer J._A. Bell, who lost his life at sea. His wife resides in Bean-street and not in Laurel-Grove, Eton-street, previously reported the "Mail." J. W.
Sources:
England & Wales, Civil Registration Birth Index, 1837-1915
England & Wales, Civil Registration Marriage Index, 1837-1915
England & Wales, National Probate Calendar (Index of Wills and Administrations), 1858-1995
UK, Royal Naval Reserve Service Records Index, 1860-1955 BT 377/7/130258
British Army and Navy Birth, Marriage and Death Records, 1730-1960 National Archives of the UK; Kew, Surrey, England; Admiralty: Naval Casualties, Indexes, War Grave Rolls and Statistics Book, First World War.; Class: ADM 242; Piece: 007 (1914 - 1919)
British Army and Navy Birth, Marriage and Death Records, 1730-1960 National Archives of the UK; Kew, Surrey, England; Admiralty: Naval Casualties, Indexes, War Grave Rolls and Statistics Book, First World War.; Class: ADM 242; Piece: 013 (1914 Jan 01 - 1919 Dec 31)
CWGC Register
WWI Pension Ledgers and Index Cards, 1914-1923 Western Front Association; London, England; WWI Pension Record Cards and Ledgers; Reference: 682/04D
Researched by Wendy Sadler
Name - John Duxfield Benjamin
DOB - 25th January 1886 and baptised on 16th May 1888 in Darlington, Durham
Place of Birth - Darlington, Durham
Parents - Samuel John Benjamin and Anne Isabella Duxfield Bell
Early History - John was the third of four children recorded on the 1891 England census, living at 2 Waverley Terrace, Darlington, with his parents; his father a cashier for a wine and spirits merchant. By the 1901 census the family had moved to 44 Cleasby Terrace, still in Darlington.
John attended Bondgate Higher Grade School and served at the Post Office as a Telegraphist for a year before serving his apprenticeship on SS Tullochmoor which belonged to Messrs Walter Runciman & Co Ship Owners, from Newcastle On Tyne. He gained his 2nd & 1st Mate certificates as well as Master, serving as First Officer on the SS Queensland before joining the Naval Reserve. He married his wife Margaret Leyton on 2nd August 1910. He joined the reserve as a Sub-Lieutenant in October 1916 and became a Lieutenant in January 1917.
Rank - Lieutenant, RNR, he is remembered on the Chatham Naval Memorial.
Stockton Herald, South Durham and Cleveland Advertiser - Saturday 22 September 1917
DEATH OF LIEUT. BENJAMIN, R.N.
Mrs J. D. Benjamin of 64, Eastbourne Rd, Darlington on Friday, received the following telegram from the Admiralty announcing the death of her husband:— " Admiralty deeply regret Lieut. John D. Benjamin killed yesterday. Letter follows."', Lieut. J. D. Benjamin. R.N.R.. was the son of Mr and Mrs S. J. Benjamin, of Fairholme, Cobden Street, Darlington. He joined the Royal Naval Reserve a year ago, and was promoted in January last to full Lieutenant and had been acting as a navigating lieutenant. He leaves a widow and two children. He was an excellent officer. and had a bright future before him. During his time in Navy he had been engaged in the dangerous work of patrol duty. He left home after a short leave on Sunday Iast.
Sources:
England & Wales, Civil Registration Birth Index, 1837-1915 Free BMD
England, Select Births and Christenings, 1538-1975
1891 & 1901 England Census
Postal Service Appointment Books, 1737-1969 British Postal Museum and Archive; London, England; Post Office: Staff nomination and appointment, 1831-1969; Series Number: POST 58; Reference: 97
UK and Ireland, Masters and Mates Certificates, 1850-1927
England & Wales, Civil Registration Marriage Index, 1837-1915
UK, De Ruvigny's Roll of Honour, 1914-1919
CWGC Register
England & Wales, National Probate Calendar (Index of Wills and Administrations), 1858-1995
Researched by Wendy Sadler
DOB - 25th January 1886 and baptised on 16th May 1888 in Darlington, Durham
Place of Birth - Darlington, Durham
Parents - Samuel John Benjamin and Anne Isabella Duxfield Bell
Early History - John was the third of four children recorded on the 1891 England census, living at 2 Waverley Terrace, Darlington, with his parents; his father a cashier for a wine and spirits merchant. By the 1901 census the family had moved to 44 Cleasby Terrace, still in Darlington.
John attended Bondgate Higher Grade School and served at the Post Office as a Telegraphist for a year before serving his apprenticeship on SS Tullochmoor which belonged to Messrs Walter Runciman & Co Ship Owners, from Newcastle On Tyne. He gained his 2nd & 1st Mate certificates as well as Master, serving as First Officer on the SS Queensland before joining the Naval Reserve. He married his wife Margaret Leyton on 2nd August 1910. He joined the reserve as a Sub-Lieutenant in October 1916 and became a Lieutenant in January 1917.
Rank - Lieutenant, RNR, he is remembered on the Chatham Naval Memorial.
Stockton Herald, South Durham and Cleveland Advertiser - Saturday 22 September 1917
DEATH OF LIEUT. BENJAMIN, R.N.
Mrs J. D. Benjamin of 64, Eastbourne Rd, Darlington on Friday, received the following telegram from the Admiralty announcing the death of her husband:— " Admiralty deeply regret Lieut. John D. Benjamin killed yesterday. Letter follows."', Lieut. J. D. Benjamin. R.N.R.. was the son of Mr and Mrs S. J. Benjamin, of Fairholme, Cobden Street, Darlington. He joined the Royal Naval Reserve a year ago, and was promoted in January last to full Lieutenant and had been acting as a navigating lieutenant. He leaves a widow and two children. He was an excellent officer. and had a bright future before him. During his time in Navy he had been engaged in the dangerous work of patrol duty. He left home after a short leave on Sunday Iast.
Sources:
England & Wales, Civil Registration Birth Index, 1837-1915 Free BMD
England, Select Births and Christenings, 1538-1975
1891 & 1901 England Census
Postal Service Appointment Books, 1737-1969 British Postal Museum and Archive; London, England; Post Office: Staff nomination and appointment, 1831-1969; Series Number: POST 58; Reference: 97
UK and Ireland, Masters and Mates Certificates, 1850-1927
England & Wales, Civil Registration Marriage Index, 1837-1915
UK, De Ruvigny's Roll of Honour, 1914-1919
CWGC Register
England & Wales, National Probate Calendar (Index of Wills and Administrations), 1858-1995
Researched by Wendy Sadler
Name - William Cummings
DOB - 14th January 1883
Place of Birth - Peterhead, Aberdeen
Parents - James and Jane
Rank - Trimmer, RNR TS 6219
Service History - William joined the RNR for service on the 6th December 1916, recorded as 5’11” tall with a scar under his right nostril and had grey eyes and a dark complexion. His home address was given as Culter Cullen,Udny, Aberdeen.
He was posted to THALIA on 6th December 1916 until May 1917, then transferred to HMT ASIA, under WALLINGTON on 12th May 1917. His body was never recovered so he was listed for remembrance on the Portsmouth Naval Memorial. He was awarded the Victory and British War Medals which were claimed by his mother.
Sources:
British Army and Navy Birth, Marriage and Death Records, 1730-1960 National Archives of the UK; Kew, Surrey, England; Admiralty: Naval Casualties, Indexes, War Grave Rolls and Statistics Book, First World War.; Class: ADM 242; Piece: 007 (1914 - 1919)
British Army and Navy Birth, Marriage and Death Records, 1730-1960 National Archives of the UK; Kew, Surrey, England; Admiralty: Naval Casualties, Indexes, War Grave Rolls and Statistics Book, First World War.; Class: ADM 242; Piece: Piece 013; Piece Description: Piece 013 (1914 Jan 01 - 1919 Dec 31)
CWGC Register
Royal Navy and Royal Marine War Graves Roll, 1914-1919 TNA Series: ADM 242/7; Scan Number: 0982
UK, Royal Naval Reserve Service Records Index, 1860-1955 BT 377/7/116142
Naval Medal and Award Rolls, 1793-1972 Class: ADM 171; Piece: 120
Researched by Wendy Sadler
DOB - 14th January 1883
Place of Birth - Peterhead, Aberdeen
Parents - James and Jane
Rank - Trimmer, RNR TS 6219
Service History - William joined the RNR for service on the 6th December 1916, recorded as 5’11” tall with a scar under his right nostril and had grey eyes and a dark complexion. His home address was given as Culter Cullen,Udny, Aberdeen.
He was posted to THALIA on 6th December 1916 until May 1917, then transferred to HMT ASIA, under WALLINGTON on 12th May 1917. His body was never recovered so he was listed for remembrance on the Portsmouth Naval Memorial. He was awarded the Victory and British War Medals which were claimed by his mother.
Sources:
British Army and Navy Birth, Marriage and Death Records, 1730-1960 National Archives of the UK; Kew, Surrey, England; Admiralty: Naval Casualties, Indexes, War Grave Rolls and Statistics Book, First World War.; Class: ADM 242; Piece: 007 (1914 - 1919)
British Army and Navy Birth, Marriage and Death Records, 1730-1960 National Archives of the UK; Kew, Surrey, England; Admiralty: Naval Casualties, Indexes, War Grave Rolls and Statistics Book, First World War.; Class: ADM 242; Piece: Piece 013; Piece Description: Piece 013 (1914 Jan 01 - 1919 Dec 31)
CWGC Register
Royal Navy and Royal Marine War Graves Roll, 1914-1919 TNA Series: ADM 242/7; Scan Number: 0982
UK, Royal Naval Reserve Service Records Index, 1860-1955 BT 377/7/116142
Naval Medal and Award Rolls, 1793-1972 Class: ADM 171; Piece: 120
Researched by Wendy Sadler
Name - Ephraim Fearnley
DOB - 14th February 1881
Place of Birth - Bradford, Yorkshire
Parents - John and Ann
Early History - Ephriam was just one month old when recorded on the 1881 census. He lived with two older siblings and his parents at 25 Pine Street, Bradford, his father worked as a Carter. John sadly died aged 36, in September 1887, leaving Ann a widow with another child after Ephraim. On the 1891 census Ephraim was aged eleven and attending school. Ann supported her family working as a pattern maker and also had a lodger at 6 Sun Street, Bradford. Ten years later, in the spring of 1901 Ephraim married Alice Dixon, in Hull with the couple having four children during their marriage.
Rank - Gunner RNR SA 1972
Service History - Ephraim enrolled with the Royal Naval Reserve on 28th May 1915, giving his home address as 10 Hereford Street, Hull, Yorkshire. He was sent to HMS PEMBROKE Naval Base leaving a month later to serve with HMS COLUMBINE until the end of December 1915. While waiting for another ship’s posting Ephraim was attached to HMS WALLINGTON, but didn’t wait for his next vessel as he deserted the Navy. He was found serving on the Steam Trawler CAPE TOWN by Hull Police, subsequently arrested and sent to RN Depot Immingham to “be dealt with for desertion”. He was recovered on 27th March 1916 and sentenced to 60 days hard labour at Hull Prison. On returning to the reserve in May 1916 he spent some time with H.T ISAAC WALTON before his posting to HMT ASIA.
Following his death, his pension was awarded to his widow and four children as was his Victory and British war medals.
He is remembered on the Chatham Naval Memorial.
Sources:
England & Wales, Civil Registration Birth Index, 1837-1915
1881 & 1891 England Census
England & Wales, Civil Registration Marriage Index, 1837-1915
UK, Royal Naval Reserve Service Records Index, 1860-1955 BT/377/7/88307
British Army and Navy Birth, Marriage and Death Records, 1730-1960 National Archives of the UK; Kew, Surrey, England; Admiralty: Naval Casualties, Indexes, War Grave Rolls and Statistics Book, First World War.; Class: ADM 242; Piece: 008 (1914 - 1919)
British Army and Navy Birth, Marriage and Death Records, 1730-1960 National Archives of the UK; Kew, Surrey, England; Admiralty: Naval Casualties, Indexes, War Grave Rolls and Statistics Book, First World War.; Class: ADM 242; Piece: Piece 013; Piece Description: Piece 013 (1914 Jan 01 - 1919 Dec 31)
British Army and Navy Birth, Marriage and Death Records, 1730-1960 National Archives of the UK; Kew, Surrey, England; Admiralty and predecessors: Office of the Director General of the Medical Department of the Navy and predecessors: Service Registers and Registers of Deaths and Injuries. Registers of Reports of Deaths
CWGC Register
WWI Pension Ledgers and Index Cards, 1914-1923 Western Front Association; London, England; Pension Record Cards; Reference: 069/0314/FAY-FEL
Naval Medal and Award Rolls, 1793-1972 Class: ADM 171; Piece: 121
Researched by Wendy Sadler
DOB - 14th February 1881
Place of Birth - Bradford, Yorkshire
Parents - John and Ann
Early History - Ephriam was just one month old when recorded on the 1881 census. He lived with two older siblings and his parents at 25 Pine Street, Bradford, his father worked as a Carter. John sadly died aged 36, in September 1887, leaving Ann a widow with another child after Ephraim. On the 1891 census Ephraim was aged eleven and attending school. Ann supported her family working as a pattern maker and also had a lodger at 6 Sun Street, Bradford. Ten years later, in the spring of 1901 Ephraim married Alice Dixon, in Hull with the couple having four children during their marriage.
Rank - Gunner RNR SA 1972
Service History - Ephraim enrolled with the Royal Naval Reserve on 28th May 1915, giving his home address as 10 Hereford Street, Hull, Yorkshire. He was sent to HMS PEMBROKE Naval Base leaving a month later to serve with HMS COLUMBINE until the end of December 1915. While waiting for another ship’s posting Ephraim was attached to HMS WALLINGTON, but didn’t wait for his next vessel as he deserted the Navy. He was found serving on the Steam Trawler CAPE TOWN by Hull Police, subsequently arrested and sent to RN Depot Immingham to “be dealt with for desertion”. He was recovered on 27th March 1916 and sentenced to 60 days hard labour at Hull Prison. On returning to the reserve in May 1916 he spent some time with H.T ISAAC WALTON before his posting to HMT ASIA.
Following his death, his pension was awarded to his widow and four children as was his Victory and British war medals.
He is remembered on the Chatham Naval Memorial.
Sources:
England & Wales, Civil Registration Birth Index, 1837-1915
1881 & 1891 England Census
England & Wales, Civil Registration Marriage Index, 1837-1915
UK, Royal Naval Reserve Service Records Index, 1860-1955 BT/377/7/88307
British Army and Navy Birth, Marriage and Death Records, 1730-1960 National Archives of the UK; Kew, Surrey, England; Admiralty: Naval Casualties, Indexes, War Grave Rolls and Statistics Book, First World War.; Class: ADM 242; Piece: 008 (1914 - 1919)
British Army and Navy Birth, Marriage and Death Records, 1730-1960 National Archives of the UK; Kew, Surrey, England; Admiralty: Naval Casualties, Indexes, War Grave Rolls and Statistics Book, First World War.; Class: ADM 242; Piece: Piece 013; Piece Description: Piece 013 (1914 Jan 01 - 1919 Dec 31)
British Army and Navy Birth, Marriage and Death Records, 1730-1960 National Archives of the UK; Kew, Surrey, England; Admiralty and predecessors: Office of the Director General of the Medical Department of the Navy and predecessors: Service Registers and Registers of Deaths and Injuries. Registers of Reports of Deaths
CWGC Register
WWI Pension Ledgers and Index Cards, 1914-1923 Western Front Association; London, England; Pension Record Cards; Reference: 069/0314/FAY-FEL
Naval Medal and Award Rolls, 1793-1972 Class: ADM 171; Piece: 121
Researched by Wendy Sadler
Name - John Laing
DOB - 1st or 4th March 1875 and baptised on 12th July 1876 at St Hilda’s in South Shields
Place of Birth - South Shields, Durham
Parents - John and Hannah
Early History - John was recorded and was to be registered on 9th May 1878 as an apprentice in the Merchant Navy for a term of three years, bound to James Young of South Shields. John was just three years old and the apprenticeship was cancelled three months later on 26th August 1878.
John was aged six on the 1881 census, the third of five children to John, Captain of a steam tug, and Hannah. The family lived at Wellington Street, Westoe in Durham. By 1891 the family had moved north and were recorded on the 1891 Scotland census, living at 48 Victoria Road, Nigg - his older siblings had left home making him the eldest child, and John had gained a further two younger siblings. John was then aged sixteen and worked as a cook on a steamship. On the 1901 Scotland census John had moved further along the same street to 116 Victoria Road with his parents and four younger siblings. He was aged 26 and worked as a marine stoker
Rank - RNR Engineman, ES 1840
Service History -
5’4” tall with grey eyes, a dark complexion and a tattoo of a tombstone “in memory of father and sister” on his right arm, John gave his address at the time of signing up as 36 St Clair Street, Aberdeen, on 15th January 1915. He served on “Stephen Furness'' until 8/5/1916, transferred to “Thalia” until 17/05/1917 then discharged to HMT ASAI, under WALLINGTON as an Engineman.
Upon his death he left a widow and four children. He is remembered on the Portsmouth Naval Memorial.
Aberdeen Evening Express - Monday 17 September 1917
Roll of Honour
LAlNG.—Killed at sea, the 12th inst.. John Laing, engineer, H.M.T.------- , dearly beloved husband Mary Pirrie, 36 St Clair Street—Deeply mourned and sadly missed.
Sources:
England & Wales, Civil Registration Birth Index, 1837-1915
England, Select Births and Christenings, 1538-1975
1881 England census, 1891, 1901 Scotland census
Apprentices Indentured in Merchant Navy, 1824-1910 National Archives of the UK; Kew, Surrey, England; Collection: Registry of Shipping and Seamen: Index of Apprentices; Class: BT 150; Piece Number: 44
Royal Naval Reserve Service Records Index, 1860-1955 ADM BT 377/7/131248
British Army and Navy Birth, Marriage and Death Records, 1730-1960 National Archives of the UK; Kew, Surrey, England; Admiralty: Naval Casualties, Indexes, War Grave Rolls and Statistics Book, First World War.; Class: ADM 242; Piece: 009 (1914 - 1919)
CWGC Register
Royal Navy and Royal Marine War Graves Roll, 1914-1919 TNA Series: ADM 242/9; Scan Number: 0021
WWI Pension Ledgers and Index Cards, 1914-1923
Researched by Wendy Sadler
DOB - 1st or 4th March 1875 and baptised on 12th July 1876 at St Hilda’s in South Shields
Place of Birth - South Shields, Durham
Parents - John and Hannah
Early History - John was recorded and was to be registered on 9th May 1878 as an apprentice in the Merchant Navy for a term of three years, bound to James Young of South Shields. John was just three years old and the apprenticeship was cancelled three months later on 26th August 1878.
John was aged six on the 1881 census, the third of five children to John, Captain of a steam tug, and Hannah. The family lived at Wellington Street, Westoe in Durham. By 1891 the family had moved north and were recorded on the 1891 Scotland census, living at 48 Victoria Road, Nigg - his older siblings had left home making him the eldest child, and John had gained a further two younger siblings. John was then aged sixteen and worked as a cook on a steamship. On the 1901 Scotland census John had moved further along the same street to 116 Victoria Road with his parents and four younger siblings. He was aged 26 and worked as a marine stoker
Rank - RNR Engineman, ES 1840
Service History -
5’4” tall with grey eyes, a dark complexion and a tattoo of a tombstone “in memory of father and sister” on his right arm, John gave his address at the time of signing up as 36 St Clair Street, Aberdeen, on 15th January 1915. He served on “Stephen Furness'' until 8/5/1916, transferred to “Thalia” until 17/05/1917 then discharged to HMT ASAI, under WALLINGTON as an Engineman.
Upon his death he left a widow and four children. He is remembered on the Portsmouth Naval Memorial.
Aberdeen Evening Express - Monday 17 September 1917
Roll of Honour
LAlNG.—Killed at sea, the 12th inst.. John Laing, engineer, H.M.T.------- , dearly beloved husband Mary Pirrie, 36 St Clair Street—Deeply mourned and sadly missed.
Sources:
England & Wales, Civil Registration Birth Index, 1837-1915
England, Select Births and Christenings, 1538-1975
1881 England census, 1891, 1901 Scotland census
Apprentices Indentured in Merchant Navy, 1824-1910 National Archives of the UK; Kew, Surrey, England; Collection: Registry of Shipping and Seamen: Index of Apprentices; Class: BT 150; Piece Number: 44
Royal Naval Reserve Service Records Index, 1860-1955 ADM BT 377/7/131248
British Army and Navy Birth, Marriage and Death Records, 1730-1960 National Archives of the UK; Kew, Surrey, England; Admiralty: Naval Casualties, Indexes, War Grave Rolls and Statistics Book, First World War.; Class: ADM 242; Piece: 009 (1914 - 1919)
CWGC Register
Royal Navy and Royal Marine War Graves Roll, 1914-1919 TNA Series: ADM 242/9; Scan Number: 0021
WWI Pension Ledgers and Index Cards, 1914-1923
Researched by Wendy Sadler
Name - Malcolm John MacDonald
DOB - 18th May 1894
Place of Birth - Lairg, Dornoch, Scotland
Parents - George and Elspeth
Early History - Malcolm was first recorded on the 1901 Scotland census, aged 6, living at Shin House along with his parents and seven siblings. The family remained at the same address, Malcolm giving it when he joined the Naval Reserve.
Rank - Wireless Telegraph Operator, RNR WTS 172
Service History - Malcolm enlisted with the reserve on 19th September 1914 several weeks after war was declared. He was recorded as 5’10” tall with brown eyes and a slight “deformity” of his left little finger. He was attached to HMS VERNON on joining but transferred to HMS VICTORY shore base on 8th October 1914 to await a posting position which came a week later when he joined HMS AGAMEMNON. He remained with the vessel until 20th November 1914, was briefly “returned” to VICTORY before joining COLUMBINE on 23rd November 1914, remaining until 18th January 1915, then joined the STEPHEN FURNESS until 8th March 1916. He served another fourteen months aboard THALIA before joining HMT ASIA on his birthday, 18th May 1917.
He was awarded the 14-15 Star, Victory and British war medals, his pension claimed by his mother.
Sources:
1901 Scotland Census
UK, Royal Naval Reserve Service Records Index, 1860-1955 BT 377/7/127085
British Army and Navy Birth, Marriage and Death Records, 1730-1960 National Archives of the UK; Kew, Surrey, England; Admiralty: Naval Casualties, Indexes, War Grave Rolls and Statistics Book, First World War.; Class: ADM 242; Piece: 009 (1914 - 1919)
CWGC Register
Royal Navy and Royal Marine War Graves Roll, 1914-1919 TNA Series: ADM 242/9; Scan Number: 0236
WWI Pension Ledgers and Index Cards, 1914-1923 Western Front Association; London, England; WWI Pension Record Cards and Ledgers; Reference: 542931
Researched by Wendy Sadler
Name - William Pattullo
DOB - 8th August 1890
Place of Birth - Arbroath,Scotland
Parents - David and Margaret
Early History - William, aged just eight months old, lived with his parents and four older siblings at 40 St Vigeans Road, Arbroath during the 1891 Scotland census. Ten years later, on the 1901 Scotland census the family had moved to 45 Culloden Rd and William additionally had two younger sisters.
Rank - Trimmer RNR (Po) TS 6242
Service History - William enrolled with the Naval Reserve on the 14th December 1916, giving his address as 35 Howard Street, Arbroath and being recorded as 5’8” tall with blue eyes and fair complexion. On joining he was attached to HMS VICTORY II but served on HT PRINCESS VICTORIA until 20th March 1917, transferring to THALIA on 21st March. He was then moved to HMT ASIA, tendered to HMS WALLINGTON on 17th May 1917, remaining aboard the trawler until it was sunk.
He was awarded the Victory and British War medals following his death; his body not recovered he was listed on the Portsmouth Naval Memorial to be remembered in perpetuity. His pension was awarded to his mother while his sister Christina was granted the value of his estate, £111.00.
Dundee Courier - Wednesday 19 September 1917
ARBROATH R.N.R. MAN DROWNED. Information has been received by Mr and Mrs D. Pattullo, 35 Howard Street, Arbroath, that their elder son, William Pattullo (27), R.N.R., lost his life at sea on 12th inst. as the result of the vessel on which he- was engaged having been sunk. Prior to the war he was a turner in Arbroath. and latterly Carnoustie.
Arbroath Herald and Advertiser for the Montrose Burghs - Friday 21 September 1917
Death on Service. PATTULLO. —At Sea, on the 12th inst., William Pattullo, R.N.R., beloved and elder son of Mr and Mrs Pattullo, 35 Howard Street, aged 27. —Deeply mourned.
Arbroath Herald and Advertiser for the Montrose Burghs - Friday 21 September 1917
ARBROATH MEN LOSE THEIR LIVES AT SEA The sad news has been received in Arbroath this week of the death at sea of two local men—Seaman William Pattullo, R.N.R., and Second-Engineer Alexander Smith, of the Mercantile Service. Seaman Pattullo is the elder son of Mr D. Pattullo, retired ironmonger, 35 Howard Street, and was 27 years of age. He lost his life at sea on 12th September. He served his apprenticeship at Westburn Foundry, and after some time at Carnoustie was employed an iron turner with Messrs D. Corsa. & Sons. A younger brother. John Pattullo, formerly assistant machine man at the Herald Office, is with the Navy.
Sources:
1891 & 1901 Scotland Census
UK, Royal Naval Reserve Service Records Index, 1860-1955 BT 377/7/116165
British Army and Navy Birth, Marriage and Death Records, 1730-1960 National Archives of the UK; Kew, Surrey, England; Admiralty: Naval Casualties, Indexes, War Grave Rolls and Statistics Book, First World War.; Class: ADM 242; Piece: 009 (1914 - 1919)
British Army and Navy Birth, Marriage and Death Records, 1730-1960 National Archives of the UK; Kew, Surrey, England; Admiralty: Naval Casualties, Indexes, War Grave Rolls and Statistics Book, First World War.; Class: ADM 242; Piece: Piece 013; Piece Description: Piece 013 (1914 Jan 01 - 1919 Dec 31)
CWGC Register
Royal Navy and Royal Marine War Graves Roll, 1914-1919
WWI Pension Ledgers and Index Cards, 1914-1923 Western Front Association; London, England; WWI Pension Record Cards and Ledgers; Reference: 641/01D
Researched by Wendy Sadler
DOB - 8th August 1890
Place of Birth - Arbroath,Scotland
Parents - David and Margaret
Early History - William, aged just eight months old, lived with his parents and four older siblings at 40 St Vigeans Road, Arbroath during the 1891 Scotland census. Ten years later, on the 1901 Scotland census the family had moved to 45 Culloden Rd and William additionally had two younger sisters.
Rank - Trimmer RNR (Po) TS 6242
Service History - William enrolled with the Naval Reserve on the 14th December 1916, giving his address as 35 Howard Street, Arbroath and being recorded as 5’8” tall with blue eyes and fair complexion. On joining he was attached to HMS VICTORY II but served on HT PRINCESS VICTORIA until 20th March 1917, transferring to THALIA on 21st March. He was then moved to HMT ASIA, tendered to HMS WALLINGTON on 17th May 1917, remaining aboard the trawler until it was sunk.
He was awarded the Victory and British War medals following his death; his body not recovered he was listed on the Portsmouth Naval Memorial to be remembered in perpetuity. His pension was awarded to his mother while his sister Christina was granted the value of his estate, £111.00.
Dundee Courier - Wednesday 19 September 1917
ARBROATH R.N.R. MAN DROWNED. Information has been received by Mr and Mrs D. Pattullo, 35 Howard Street, Arbroath, that their elder son, William Pattullo (27), R.N.R., lost his life at sea on 12th inst. as the result of the vessel on which he- was engaged having been sunk. Prior to the war he was a turner in Arbroath. and latterly Carnoustie.
Arbroath Herald and Advertiser for the Montrose Burghs - Friday 21 September 1917
Death on Service. PATTULLO. —At Sea, on the 12th inst., William Pattullo, R.N.R., beloved and elder son of Mr and Mrs Pattullo, 35 Howard Street, aged 27. —Deeply mourned.
Arbroath Herald and Advertiser for the Montrose Burghs - Friday 21 September 1917
ARBROATH MEN LOSE THEIR LIVES AT SEA The sad news has been received in Arbroath this week of the death at sea of two local men—Seaman William Pattullo, R.N.R., and Second-Engineer Alexander Smith, of the Mercantile Service. Seaman Pattullo is the elder son of Mr D. Pattullo, retired ironmonger, 35 Howard Street, and was 27 years of age. He lost his life at sea on 12th September. He served his apprenticeship at Westburn Foundry, and after some time at Carnoustie was employed an iron turner with Messrs D. Corsa. & Sons. A younger brother. John Pattullo, formerly assistant machine man at the Herald Office, is with the Navy.
Sources:
1891 & 1901 Scotland Census
UK, Royal Naval Reserve Service Records Index, 1860-1955 BT 377/7/116165
British Army and Navy Birth, Marriage and Death Records, 1730-1960 National Archives of the UK; Kew, Surrey, England; Admiralty: Naval Casualties, Indexes, War Grave Rolls and Statistics Book, First World War.; Class: ADM 242; Piece: 009 (1914 - 1919)
British Army and Navy Birth, Marriage and Death Records, 1730-1960 National Archives of the UK; Kew, Surrey, England; Admiralty: Naval Casualties, Indexes, War Grave Rolls and Statistics Book, First World War.; Class: ADM 242; Piece: Piece 013; Piece Description: Piece 013 (1914 Jan 01 - 1919 Dec 31)
CWGC Register
Royal Navy and Royal Marine War Graves Roll, 1914-1919
WWI Pension Ledgers and Index Cards, 1914-1923 Western Front Association; London, England; WWI Pension Record Cards and Ledgers; Reference: 641/01D
Researched by Wendy Sadler
