Beaumaris Cemetery
Should you visit this cemetery, allow yourself an extra 5 minutes to sit on the wall in the upper section and look at the view. There is the town’s West End on your left and a panoramic view up the Menai Strait, towards Bangor, on your right. It is a beautiful spot from which to consider the world.
Beaumaris is a town that was created from conflict. The English king, Edward I, needed to subjugate the native Welsh ‘the present town originated there from a castell being built there, as a check upon the natives’ quoted Angharad Llwyd in ‘A History of the Island of Mona’. They started to build the castle in 1295, then the walled town and in time the town spread outside the walls. Edward had directed that the people of the existing township, Llanfaes, should be moved to Newborough, about 16 miles away. Master James of St George, a master mason, was brought in to supervise the construction and English craftsmen were brought in to build the castle. The town was carefully populated with English families, loyal to the king. And for much of the time since, the town of Beaumaris has been a centre of military activity and an ‘English’ community.
For centuries Beaumaris was the administrative centre for Anglesey: Garrison, Court House, Gaol, Grammar School; all were based here, as was the Anglesey Hunt. It was only after the opening of the Menai Bridge (road bridge) in 1826, the A5 Post Road and the Britannia Bridge (railway bridge) in 1850 that Beaumaris waned in importance. The Williams Bulkeley family of Baron Hill, seeing that Beaumaris was being side-lined by these developments, built the ‘Bulkeley Road’ to facilitate the journey by road between Beaumaris and Menai Bridge. Thanks to this, during Victorian times, the town became a popular tourist destination; visitors could come by road, rail or sea. It has continued to thrive.
The Church of St Mary and St Nicholas, built by the same men who built the Castle, had a churchyard for burials. However in time, the churchyard was full. Changes in thinking about public health were prompted by the cholera epidemics of the early nineteenth century. A new place for burials was needed, outside the town. From Graham Stephen: this cemetery was designed by J Francis Clerke. It was completed in 1863 on a plot of land at the western approach to the town, given to the town council by Sir Richard Bulkeley Williams-Bulkeley 10th Baronet (1801 – 1875). The cemetery chapel was consecrated in July 1863 by the Bishop of Bangor, James Colquhoun Campbell. He returned in October 1870 to consecrate the Hampton Lewis family Mausoleum in the churchyard of St Catherine, Llanfaes. Originally the cemetery was divided by religion: Church of England (later Church of Wales) on the right as you enter; Non-conformists and Roman Catholics on the left; hence the twin chapels of the building. The design of a Star of David, popular in Christian architecture at the time, is now predominantly associated with the Jewish faith.
The cemetery was in use as soon as it was completed, in fact the first burial of January 1864 is clearly marked: ‘Sacred to the Memory of John Jones, Father of John Jones Governor of the Anglesey Country Gaol . . . This was the first internment in this consecrated ground’. As Beaumaris was still a Garrison town, there are many military (Militia, Royal Anglesey Royal Engineers and naval) burials in the cemetery, some of which are distinguished by fine imagery. There are eight burials listed as Commonwealth War Graves, seven from the Great War and one from World War II.
The names that follow are of men and women; most died as a result of war service, some not. Some are remembered as war casualties by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission; but not all. Some have the CWGC typical headstones; but not all. Some are buried elsewhere, and remembered here on their family grave. What stands out in the notes that follow is that most served with the Royal Welsh Fusiliers during the Great War, whereas it became the Royal Air Force during the Second World War, particularly for Grammar School boys.
From this elevated position, you can almost hear the sound of marching feet, the RWF men of the local Battalion marching along the pier from Kingsbridge Camp early in 1915, to be carried to Bangor Pier on the ferry and then through Bangor to the Railway Station from where they went to Rushden in Northamptonshire. Late July 1915 they left again, to go to Southampton, from where they sailed to Gallipoli, via the Greek Island of Lemnos.
Here you will find some graves with unlikely sounding family names: Jeune, Perchard, Sauvey, Gallichan. These were Channel Island families brought to live in Beaumaris, for the purpose of cultivating oyster beds in order to supply the tables of the gentry. I am told it was not entirely successful as the water conditions were not quite right.
The Hidden Stories of Beaumaris Cemetery
There are 8 Commonwealth War Graves (marked with an asterisk * in this text). Four men have the typical Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC) headstone in either slate or Portland stone; one lies flat on a family grave; four have family headstones. Seven are from the Great War of 1914 – 1918 and one is for WWII of 1939 – 1945.
Most of the others listed here are buried elsewhere, but remembered on their family graves; however there are some whose death was caused by war, but who died too late to be a casualty. All marked by ✿ have poppy posies on Remembrance Sunday (30; 1 grave has 2 commemorations).
Note: the title line for each person is the wording on their headstone.
1 - Elizabeth Lester - widow of the late Rev. Canon Major Lester M.A. R.D.
Elizabeth Lester (née Maddock), her daughter Jessie and son in law Geoffrey Holme; Elizabeth, widow of Thomas Major Lester, Canon of Liverpool Cathedral and founder of Ragged School in Liverpool, mother of eight children, living in Beaumaris at the time of her death.
Her daughter Jessie Holme (née Lester) and Geoffrey Holme, he had been an Architect and Building Contractor in Liverpool, retired to Anglesey; volunteer in local battalion during Great War, contributed to the design of the Memorial Window in church of St Cawrdaf, Llangoed; they were parents of Lt Bertram Lester Holme RWF died on April 25 1916, whilst serving in Mesopotamia.
Kerb grave with cross lying on it - Elizabeth Lester widow of the late Rev. Canon Major Lester M.A. R.D. (Rural Dean) of Liverpool, died June 12th 1925 aged 96 years. Geoffrey Cossett Holme of Liverpool Died May 21st 1945 aged 86 years. Jessie, wife of Geoffrey Holme, died May 26 1957 aged 91 years.
✿ 2 - In Memory of Harold Samuel Peeke Lt.–Col RAMC
Not an official a war casualty; son of Samuel Peeke, Commercial Traveller and Emily, husband of Mary Ethel; Lieutenant Colonel Royal Army Medical Corps; served in Anglo Boer War, ‘Soudan’ and recalled to the Active List from the Reserve of Officers on 16th March 1915 to run the Liverpool Merchants’ Mobile Hospital (No 6 Red Cross Hospital) in Etaples, France; Mentioned in Despatches, awarded the Order of St John and Silver Badge; not on Beaumaris Cenotaph.
Distinctive St John’s Cross on the flat gravestone: In Memory of Harold Samuel Peeke Lt.–Col RAMC. Born Dec 17th 1864 Died Mar 21st 1926. “The Lord preserve us in the number of the faithful“.
✿ 3 - Sacred to the Memory of Pte. John Frederick Thomas (Fred)
John Frederick Thomas, born Beaumaris; son of Thomas and Eliza Frances Emma Thomas of 8 Stanley Street; one of three brothers who served, the others came home; Private 40037 South Wales Borderers 2nd Battalion (previously Royal Welsh Fusiliers); died at Battle of Arras; Beaumaris Cenotaph: J. F. Thomas Pte. R.W.F.
CWGC: Private John Frederick Thomas – Service No 40037 – Died Saturday 19.05.1917 – Age 22 – 2nd Bn. South Wales Borderers – Son of Thomas and E. F. E. Thomas, of 8. Stanley St., Beaumaris, Anglesea. – Commemorated on Arras Memorial, Pas de Calais (no grave).
Commemorated on slate family headstone (crossed rifles and military cap): “Thy Will Be Done” - Sacred To The Memory of Pte. John Frederick Thomas (Fred) 2nd Batt. S.W.B., late R.W.F. Killed in action at Mouchy-Le-Preux May 19th 1917. Aged 22 Years. Beloved son of Thomas and Emma Thomas, 8 Stanley Street. God grant him Eternal Rest. Also father of the above, Thomas Thomas, Died Dec 21st 1939, Aged 80 years. At rest. Also Eliza Frances Emma. Wife of the above Thomas Thomas. Who died November 28, 1951. Aged 91 years. “Peace, perfect peace.”
* ✿ 4 – In Loving Memory of Robert Vernon Eldest Son of William R and Emily Jones
Robert Vernon Jones, eldest son of Alderman William R and Mrs Emily Jones of Cremlyn, (later Tyddyn Fryar), brother W Havard Jones served as Lieutenant in RWF was seriously wounded; educated Beaumaris Grammar School; worked on the family farm near Beaumaris; joined up on 5th August 1914 (war declared on 4th August) Private 301869, 3rd Reserve Cavalry Regiment (previously 3153 Denbigh Yeomanry & 50395 Imperial Camel Corps); served in UK, Egypt and Palestine; died in Aldershot of influenza; age 27; Beaumaris Cenotaph: R. V. Jones Pte. D.H.Y.
CWGC burial in Beaumaris Cemetery, family headstone - marble cross on stepped pedestal with kerb: In Loving Memory of Eliza Maria Williams daughter of the late David & Susannah Williams (?). Martha Emily Jones who died on the 5th September 1933 (?). In Loving Memory of William Jones Born March 18th 1854, Died Jan 2nd 1921. At Rest. In Loving Memory of Robert Vernon, eldest son of William R and Emily Jones, who died on the 29th March 1919, aged 26.
✿ 5 – To the glory of God and in loving memory of Bruce Lindon Haynes Capt. R.A.
His grandparents lived at ‘Glanfa’ Beaumaris; born in 1919 to Percy and Alice Maude Haynes; attended Cheltenham College; was an Articled Clerk to become a Member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants; volunteered for the Royal Artillery; killed in action in Tunisia
CWGC: Bruce Lyndon Haynes - 117515 - Captain 71 Field Regt. Royal Artillery – Died Thursday 22 April 1943 – 24 years old – Steadfast. Greater love hath no man than this. “Floreat Cheltona” - Son of Major Percy Haynes, R.A.P.C., and Alice Maude Haynes – Buried Medjez-el-Bab War Cemetery, Tunisia.
Headstone - a cross on stepped plinth with kerb: In remembrance of my beloved wife Mary Emma Williams died Nov 9th 1915 aged 57 years. Also Lloyd Williams beloved husband of above died Dec 23rd 1936 aged 78 years. Stone on grave: To the glory of God & in loving memory of Bruce Lindon Haynes Capt. R.A. (Old Cheltonian) killed in action – N. Africa April 22, 1943. Only son of Major P. & A. M. Haynes & grandson of the above. Greater love hath no man.
* ✿ 6 - 68090 Private - J. Williams - South Wales Borderers
John Williams, South Wales Borderers 53rd Battalion; son of Catherine Parry (previously Williams) and the late John Williams of 2 Castle Row, Beaumaris; a Postal Worker before joining up; enlisted at Wrexham probably September 1918; died at Kinmel Park Training Camp near Rhyl of pneumonia; Beaumaris Cenotaph: J. Williams Pte. S.W.B.
CWGC burial in Beaumaris Cemetery, slate headstone lies flat on family grave: South Wales Borderers badge - 68090 Private - J. Williams - South Wales Borderers – 19th October 1918. Age 18.
Also commemorated on slate family headstone with kerb: In Loving Memory Of Catherine, Beloved Wife of Henry Parry, Bryn Lodge, Beaumaris, Who Died April 24, 1952, Aged 86 years. Also Son of Above, Pte. J. Williams (S.W.B.) Died Oct 9, 1918, Aged 18 years. Also Henry Parry. Who Died March 20, 1963. Aged 92 years.
✿ 7 - In beloved memory of Llewelyn Greenly Jones. Killed in Tunis
A Bangor lad; brought up in Bryn Difyr, Lon Pobty, son to Hector Greenly and Edith Jones of Bangor; husband to Vera Grace of Ewell in Surrey; sales assistant in the Lotus & Delta Shoe Shop, Bangor; signed up with the Welsh Guards before war broke out; to France in 1940, evacuated from Dunkirk; married February 1943; North Africa with Montgomery’s 8th Army; died after being shot by a sniper; commemorated Bangor Cenotaph; not on Beaumaris Cenotaph.
CWGC: Llewelyn Greenly Jones – Guardsman 2736546 – Died Friday 08.05.1943 – Aged 23 – 3rd Bn. Welsh Guards – Son of Hector Greenly Jones and Edith Greenly Jones; husband of Vera Grace Jones, of Ewell, Surrey - Buried Enfidaville War Cemetery, Tunis.
Commemorated on slate family headstone (low headstone, decoration of ivy leaves, kerb) - family connection net yet established: Cherished Memories of my Beloved Husband Stewart Humphrey Owen. Died June 21 1945. Aged 57 years. “Until we meet again Darling.” Also Pansy Isabel Owen, Beloved wife of the above. Died Oct. 9, 1961, Age 65. “They’ve met”. Flower holder: From friends & neighbours of Walton Close. On kerb: In beloved memory of Llewelyn Greenly Jones. Killed in Tunis, May 8 1943. Aged 23. Plaque: Vernon J. H. Dibben – 1932–2001 – At Peace.
* ✿ 8 - 7007 Sapper – S. V. Hill - Royal Engineers – 9th May 1915
Samuel Vose Hill, 5th Siege Company, Royal Anglesey Royal Engineers; born Manchester; son (only child) of Emily Hill of ‘Brentwood’ Stockport Road, Altrincham, Cheshire and the late Samuel Vose Hill; enlisted Manchester and posted to RARE Depot, Kingsbridge, Llanfaes; one of the Royal Engineers party to repair Bangor Pier after SS Christiana damaged it; died Sunday 9th May 1915 by accidental drowning in a pleasure boat off Gallows Point, Beaumaris; buried about 29th June 1915 with full military honours; age 31; not on Beaumaris Cenotaph.
CWGC burial Beaumaris Cemetery, Portland stone headstone (Royal Engineers badge): 7007 Sapper – S. V. Hill - Royal Engineers – 9th May 1915.
* ✿ 9 – 6888 Sapper - L. Hemingway - Royal Engineers – 9th May 1915, Age 24
Lionel Hemingway, 5th Siege Company, Royal Anglesey Royal Engineers; born Stoke Prior, Bromsgrove, Worcestershire; son of Susan P Hemingway of 21 Prince’s Avenue, Witton, Droitwich Spa, Worcestershire and the late David Hemingway; a skilled Art Metal Worker, trained at the Guild of Applied Arts; enlisted Birmingham and posted to RARE Depot, Kingsbridge, Llanfaes; one of the Royal Engineers party to repair Bangor Pier after SS Christiana loosened from her moorings and rammed it night of 14th December 1914; died Sunday 9th May 1915 by accidental drowning in a pleasure boat off Gallows Point, Beaumaris; age 24; buried 5th June 1915 with full military honours; commemorated St Michael’s Church War Memorial, Stoke Prior, Worcestershire; not on Beaumaris Cenotaph.
CWGC burial Beaumaris Cemetery, slate headstone (Royal Engineers badge): 6888 Sapper - L. Hemingway - Royal Engineers – 9th May 1915 age 24.
✿ 10 - In Loving Memory of my dear father Francis Williams
Not an official war casualty; Merchant seaman, son of John and Ann J Williams of Steeple Lane, husband of Nellie Evelyn; lived 37 Church Street; Ordinary Seaman on SS Greypoint, accidentally drowned in Trafalgar Dock, Liverpool (described as a ‘Domestic Gardener’ at inquest); Beaumaris Cenotaph: F. Williams M.N.
Burial, slate family headstone (anchors in top corners) - In Loving Memory of my dear father Francis Williams. Died Oct. 14, 1939, Aged 35. Also Nellie Evelyn wife of the above died Oct. 1967. Interred in Oxford. “Resting where no shadows fall.” John Goodman Williams 1932 – 2016 A Beaumaris boy, loving father & grandfather. Sailed the world to return home.
✿ 11 - 3121432 Aircraftman 2nd Class - Harold E. Jones - Royal Air Force
A National Serviceman, recruited in Padgate, Warrington May 1949; possibly an Aircraft Assistant whose duties would include looking after Squadron stores, aircraft cleaning, towing aircraft in and out of hangars; died just before demob date; in 2019 a poppy cross on the grave: ‘Eddie Jones’.
CWGC burial in Beaumaris Cemetery, Portland stone headstone: RAF badge - 3121432 Aircraftman 2nd Cl. - Harold E. Jones – Royal Air Force – 7th April 1951 - Age 20 – In Loving Memory of my dear brother. Rest in peace.
* ✿ 12 - Also their beloved Grandson, L.A.C. Evan John Kite, Royal Air Force V.R.
Evan John Kite, son John Edward and Elizabeth Kite; educated Beaumaris Grammar School; Leading Aircraftman 983012, RAF Volunteer Reserve, 76 Squadron (Bomber Command) based at Linton-on-Ouse, flying Handley Page Halifax aircraft; son of John Edward and Elizabeth Kite of Beaumaris; ‘died on active service’; Beaumaris Cenotaph: E. J. Kite L.A.C. R.A.F.
CWGC burial in Beaumaris Cemetery; slate family headstone with Handley Page Halifax in roundel, ivy leaves on side pillars: Treasured Memories of Elizabeth Williams, Beloved wife of Hugh Williams, Departed this life Oct. 7, 1937, Aged 82 years. Also Hugh Williams, Departed this life July 27, 1940. Aged 83 years. Also their beloved Grandson, L.A.C. Evan John Kite, Royal Air Force V.R. Lost his life on War Operation, Serving his King and Country, April 28 1943, Aged 23 Years. At Rest.
Note: John Hudson Staples RAFVR has Mosquito aeroplane on his headstone at St Iestyn, Llanddona.
✿ 13 – Er Gof Annwyl am Robert . . . Hefyd y dyweded C. William Jones, a fu farw chwef. 25. 1940, yn 45 mlwydd oed.
Brought up in Holyhead; career Merchant Seaman before WWI; served with Royal Anglesey Royal Engineers during WWI; 1917 married Selina Roberts, a Beaumaris girl from Felin Cichle (sister of David Roberts who also served with the Royal Engineers and John Griffith Roberts, served with the RWF 8th Battalion, killed in action 15 Feb 1917 at Mesopotamia); after 1918 with London and North Western Railway - Royal Mail Ships; John’s burial record states death was on board R.M.S. Cambria, Holyhead (Royal Mail Ship); children had been living with grandparents Grace and William, at 13 Stanley Street, since Selena’s death in 1927
✿ 14 - And their son Ft. Lt. Emlyn Parry reported missing over Germany.
Born in 1917; son of Henry and Martha Parry; educated Beaumaris Grammar School; joined up as ground crew, transferred to air crew; part of Battle of Britain and Bomber Command; lost over Germany on a mission to bomb Krupps factory in Essen, flew in Halifax aircraft; Beaumaris Cenotaph E. Parry P.O. R.A.F.
CWGC: Flying Officer (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner) Service No 137569 – Died Friday 28.05.1943 – Aged 26 – 10 Sqdn. Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve - Son of Mr. and Mrs. Henry Parry of Beaumaris Anglesey - Buried Reichswald Forest War Cemetery.
Commemorated on family headstone (flat, polished granite): In Memory of Martha Parry, 1883 – 1949 and her beloved husband Henry Parry 1880 – 1960. Also their daughter Elizabeth Mary Parry 1911 – 1929 and their son Ft. Lt. Emlyn Parry reported missing over Germany 1909 - 1941. Leslie Schofield grandson died 1953 aged 2 days. (Note: dates as seen.)
✿ 15 – Also Hugh their youngest son who fell in action at Suvla Bay
Youngest of five and a professional soldier, son of a professional soldier; father, Staff Sergeant with the Royal Anglesey Royal Engineers, died young; mother, Eliza, later listed as victualler, then ran a lodging house (one child born Chelsea Barracks, one in Tower of London); Hugh born Beaumaris, in Guards Barracks, London in Census 1901 – served in South Africa 2nd Boer War
CWGC: Serjeant Hugh Hughes - Service No 3/9199 – West Yorkshire (Prince of Wales’s Own) 9th Bn. - Died 9th August 1915 – Commemorated Helles Memorial
Commemorated on the family grave, rough granite kerb grave; cross and plaque lie on top: In Loving Memory of Father and Mother, Robert Hughes Sergt. R.A.R.E. died Dec 21 1897, aged 57 years and Eliza his wife, died April 9 1922 aged 80 years. Also Eliza Anne their youngest daughter, died Sept. 21St 1931 aged 50 years; Also Margaret Elizabeth May, died Dec 26, 1948. Also Hugh their youngest son who fell in action at Suvla Bay with the 9th West Yorkshire Regt. August 9th 1915, aged 37 years.
Plaque on grave: Also in loving memory of William Hugh Hughes, died April 14 1977 aged 76 years. Cross on grave: “Thy will be done”.
✿ 16 - In loving memory of . . . and Emma Henderson, Legion d‘Honneur, Medaille Militaire (née Tattersall) his wife
Not war casualties: grave for Emma Elizabeth Tattersall, her sons Charles Edward Owen and Hugh Herbert, others are commemorations. Emma Lilian Tattersall, active in the French Resistance with her husband Mario Nikis; both caught, interrogated and sent to concentration camp, he died on the way there; she survived, later remarried (Charles Henderson) and continued to live in France.
Commemorated on family grave (cross with scroll, rough hewn plinth with new slate inscription and kerb): In memoriam - Charles Edward Owen youngest son of William Alfred Tattersall M.A. Vicar of Oxton. And Emma Elizabeth his wife Died March 5, 1888, Aged 20. Also of the above Emma Elizabeth Tattersall Died March 11, 1912. Aged 83. Also of their son Hugh Herbert Tattersall Died April 24, 1933. Aged 73. (and plaque on the grave) In loving memory of Lilian Elizabeth Tattersall, Born 21 Jan. 1874, Died 9 March 1966. Vera Toler, Born 1 April 1898, Died 19 Jan. 1989, Daughter of Hugh Herbert Tattersall. Charles James Henderson K.B.E. Born 9 Nov. 1882, Died 31 May 1974, Son of Henry Henderson. And Emma Henderson Legion d’Honneur, Medaille Militaire (née Tattersall) his wife, Born 9 March 1905, Died 3 March 2004, Daughter of Hugh Herbert Tattersall.
17 - Sacred to the Memory of John Jones Father of John Jones, Governor of the Anglesey County Gaol who departed this life on the 16th day of January 1864. Aged 83 years. This was the first internment in this consecrated ground.
Not a war casualty; had served in British Navy, gunner at the Battle of Copenhagan (1807); first cousin of father of Lieut Col Morris, 17th Lancers, survived ‘The Charge’ at Balaclava
18 - In Memory of Richard Norman, formerly Captain 7th Royal Fusiliers. Died 18th March 1886 aged 78. He walked with God and he was not for God took him. Maria the wife of Richard Norman late of Tan-y-Coed Anglesey - Died November (?)
Neither are war casualties; he was son of Richard Norman of Melton Mowbray and Rt Hon Lady Elizabeth Isabella Manners, daughter of 4th Duke of Rutland; married first to Maria (died 1862, burial registered Llandegfan) and secondly to Mary Anne Sandys of Craig yr Halen, Menai Bridge
✿ 19 - In memory of my beloved husband Evan P. Thomas (late Canadian Infantry)
Not an official war casualty; Evan Pritchard Thomas; son of Evan and Catherine (née Pritchard) Thomas, brother of W Eric Thomas, husband of Hannah Mary; educated Beaumaris Grammar School; served for two years with Royal Welsh Fusiliers; 1912 emigrated to Winnipeg, Canada to work as a Carpenter; October 1914 volunteered for service in Canadian Infantry; badly injured, evacuated back to Canada March 1919, discharged as unfit October 1919; returned to Beaumaris to work as a Building Contractor; married 1921; died November 1924 from the effects of his wounds; not on Beaumaris Cenotaph.
Buried in family grave (rough granite cross on stepped pedestal, with kerb): In memory of my beloved husband Evan P. Thomas (late Canadian Infantry) who died Nov 16 1924 from wounds received in the Great War 1914-18 aged 38 years. Also his wife Hannah Mary Thomas died Feb 20th 1975 aged 88 years.
✿ 20 - And their daughter Menna Lloyd Jones 1905 – 1970, widow of Capt. Morris Jones M.N. 1900–1941
Not an official war casualty; Master Morris Jones, born Penrhyndeudraeth; husband to Menna of Orwell House; Captain of Merchant Navy vessel SS Colon; accidentally drowned Tuesday 22.03.1941, age 41; buried Ismailia War Cemetery, Egypt; Beaumaris Cenotaph: M. Jones Captain M.N.
Commemorated on slate family grave (simple, clear design): In memory of Amelia Lloyd Evans 1871 – 1936 widow of David Lloyd Evans 1861 – 1912 and their daughter Menna Lloyd Evans 1905 – 1970 widow of Capt. Morris Jones M.N. 1900 – 1941.
21 – Long: 30 49’ 2” W – Benarth Hall – Lat: 530 16’ 18” N - Woodgarth - May Tattersall 1940 - Thomas Frederick Tattersall 1943 (sundial style headstone)
Neither are war casualties; Thomas Tattersall and his wife, Helen May born in Pernambuco, Brazil; for many years lived at Benarth Hall, Conwy Valley (Longitude 30 49’ 12” W, Latitude 530 16’ 18”) before moving to ‘Woodgarth’ in Beaumaris (now Ael y Bryn); he was a Cotton Trader, vice-chairman Williams Deacons Bank, High Sheriff of Carnarvonshire 1920, Mayor of Beaumaris 1942.
✿ 22 - In Loving Memory of John Henry Sloman
Not an official war casualty; son of Francis Sloman and Ellen; first marriage 1909 to Pauline Woollock (she died 1910; baby survived, was brought up by his parents); husband to Olive Mary (née Roberts) of Ogwen View; Sapper RARE, at Kingsbridge Depot, Llanfaes; February 1917 was acting as Bombing Instructor when a grenade accident caused him to be medically unfit for the front line; not on Beaumaris Cenotaph.
Buried in family grave (white marble cross on stepped pedestal, and kerb): In Loving Memory of John Henry Sloman who died January 21st 1922 Aged 35 years “We cannot with our loved ones be, But trust them Father unto thee”. Tablet on grave: Also his dear wife Olive Mary Sloman Died Nov 29, 1971, Aged 80 “Come home to eternal rest”.
✿ 23 - William George Owen . . . Also their youngest son Donald Uvedale Owen
Family lived at Plas Coch Terrace Beaumaris; attended the Grammar School; trained in Medicine at Liverpool University; worked as surgeon at Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, and Royal Southern Hospital (specialised in heart disease); was in Territorial Army, called up in 1939 and sent to Egypt in charge of a General hospital; developed aplastic anaemia, sent to Johannesburg for treatment which continued till his death in 1943; not on Beaumaris Cenotaph.
CWGC: Donald Uvedale Owen – Major 75838 Royal Army Medical Corps – Died 7 December 1943 - Age 43 – Buried at Johannesburg (West Park) Cemetery, South Africa - Mentioned in Despatches – Son of the Revd. William George Owen and Mary Ellen Owen, of Liverpool, England M.D., F.R.C.P., D.T.M.
William George Owen, for 47 years English Presbyterian Minister, born 1841, Died 1913. Mary Ellen Owen, widow of Rev W. G. Owen – died 7 Nov 1947 age 85 years. Also their youngest son Donald Uvedale Owen M.D.D.T.(?) M.I.F.R.(?) C.P.(?) died on active service December 7 1943, aged 43 years. Buried at West Park Cemetery Johannesburg.
✿ 24 - Hefyd, er gof am eu meibion Robert, R.W.F. a gwympod yn y Rhyfel Mawr
Robert Jones, son of Mary and Richard Jones of 18 Wexham Street; worked as a Labourer; Private 24719, 14th Battalion Royal Welsh Fusiliers; killed in action, battle of Ypres; Beaumaris Cenotaph: R. Jones Pte R.W.F.
CWGC: Robert Jones, Private 24719, 14th Battalion Royal Welsh Fusiliers - Died 5th October 1916, age 21 - Son of Richard and Mary Jones of 18 Wexham Street, Beaumaris, Anglesey - “Hwn o’i wirfodd a ymroddodd ei hunan, 2 Chron. 17. 6” (Who willingly offered himself) - Buried at Essex Farm Cemetery, Belgium.
Commemorated on slate family headstone grave (joined hands): Er Gof Annwyl am Mary Priod Richard Jones, 18 Wexham St. Beaumaris bu farw Tachw. 1939, yn 66 mlwydd oed. Hefyd, er gof am eu meibion Robert, R.W.F. a gwympodd yn y Rhyfel Mawr, Hud. 5. 1916, yn 21 mlwydd oed. Edward a gyfarfu a damwain angeuol un Ffrainc, Mawrth, 18. 1940, yn 40 mlwydd oed. A gladdwyd yn Warloy, Baillon. Hefyd y dywededig, Richard Jones, bu farw Tach. 13. 1944, yn 87 mlwydd oedd.
And his brother - Edward a gyfarfu a damwain angeuol un Ffrainc, Mawrth, 18. 1940, yn 40 mlwydd oed - Edward Jones - not a war casualty; a civilian who worked for the Imperial War Graves Commission; married to a French national; thought to have died in a car accident; buried in Warloy Baillon Cemetery, France; commemorated on his parents’ grave (see above); not on Beaumaris Cenotaph.
* ✿ 25 - Er Gof Serchog am Ellis, Anwyl Fab Robert ac Esther Jones
Ellis Jones, Driver 1855887 R.E.N.D. Royal Engineers; son of Robert Jones and his wife Esther of Henllys Lodge, Beaumaris; born Gyffin, Conway; a career soldier; died at Aldershot Monday 21st March 1921, age 21; not on Beaumaris Cenotaph.
CWGC burial in Beaumaris Cemetery, private headstone in slate (palm frond): Er Gof Serchog am Ellis, Anwyl Fab Robert ac Esther Jones, Henllys Lodge, Beaumaris. A Fu Farw Mawrth 21, 1921.Yn 21 Mlwydd Oed. “Fel blodauyn y daw allan, An y torrir ef ymaith. Efe a cilia fel cysgod, ac nisaif .” Hefyd y diwydedig Robert Jones, A fu farw Hydref 17. 1941. Yn 52 mlwydd oed. Hefyd y dywededig Esther Jones, A fu farw Mehfin 11, 1946. Yn 70 Mlwydd Oed. “Gorffwyso Maent Mewn Hedd”.
* ✿ 26 - 3009 Private – T. Owen – Royal Welch Fusiliers – 8th December 1920
Thomas Owen; Private 32082 Royal Defence Corps (previously Private 3009 Royal Welsh Fusiliers), possibly wounded or gassed on active service then transferred to ‘Home Service’; age 59; family resident at 22 New Street, Beaumaris; died Wednesday 8th December 1920; not on Beaumaris Cenotaph.
CWGC burial in Beaumaris Cemetery, slate headstone: Royal Welsh Fusiliers badge - 3009 Private – T. Owen – Royal Welch Fusiliers – 8th December 1920.
✿ 27 - Also, in loving memory of Harry, son of the above named, who was killed in France
Henry (Harry) Williams, son of William and Jane Williams; served with the Australian Imperial Force; had probably emigrated to Adelaide in 1898 where he worked as a Labourer; signed up in December 1916; appears to have had poor health; died of wounds received in action; records show a burial in France, since lost; Beaumaris Cenotaph: H. Williams Pte. Aus Imp. Forces.
CWGC: Private Henry Williams – Service Number 7313 – died Wednesday 18.09.1918 – 19th Bn. Australian Infantry, A.I.F. – Commemorated Villers-Bretonneux Memorial (no grave).
Commemorated on slate family headstone (weeping palm): In Memory of William Williams, Mariner Died March 3rd 1885 Aged 29 years “Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord: for they rest from their labours” also William, son of the above died 15th Aug. 1883. Aged 16 months. Also of Jane, wife of the above died 17th October 1885 aged 34 years. Also, in loving memory of Harry, son of the above named, who was killed in France, when serving in the A.I.F. September 18, 1918. Aged 38 years. And was interred at the Military Cemetery, Jeancourt.
✿ 28 - In loving memory of Henry Eardley 6th R.W.F. Killed in action at the Dardanelles
Brought up in Menai Bridge, lived in Beaumaris after his marriage to Martha; enlisted in Caernarfon 1st /6th Carnarvonshire & Anglesey Battalion Royal Welsh Fusiliers; landed Gallipoli 8th August 1915, killed in action on the 19th; St Tysilio Cenotaph; Beaumaris Cenotaph: H. Eardley Pte. R.W.F.
CWGC: Private Henry Eardley – Service Number 2893 – Died Thursday 19.08.1915 – Aged 34 – 1st/6th Bn. Royal Welsh Fusiliers – Husband of Martha Eardley, of 19 Stanley St., Beaumaris, Anglesea; Commemorated Helles Memorial (no grave).
Commemorated on slate family headstone (shield flanked by palm fronds, clasped hands): In loving memory of Henry Eardley 6th R.W.F. Killed in action at the Dardanelles Aug 19th 1915. Aged 34 years. Pan clywodd udcorn trwy y tir, Yn calw’r dewr i’r gad; Brysiodd y ymladnodd dros y cwir; Bu farw dros ei wlad; Pe buasai human canddo’n not; Gallasai fod yn fwy; Ond gwell oedd marw’n mhell, Dros cartref, gwlad, a duw. Also children of the above Willie died May 16th 1905 Aged 3 years Henry died July 5th 1905 aged 9 weeks also Martha Jane Eardley died April 11 1955 aged 74 years.
✿ 29 - In memory of my beloved husband Hugh Rowlands D.S.O. M.C.
Not an official war casualty; Hugh Rowlands, born Beaumaris; Head Teacher at Llaniestyn Council School, Lleyn, Carnarvonshire; enlisted as Private 17139, 13th Battalion Royal Welsh Fusiliers; promoted 2nd Lieutenant 7th Battalion RWF; later attached to the London Regiment, then transferred to the London Regiment; awarded Distinguished Service Order, Military Cross and Bar, Mentioned in Despatches; left as Captain and Company Commander 1/2nd Battalion London Regiment; returned to teaching; 1939 returned to live at Manora, Beaumaris. Not on Beaumaris Cenotaph.
Buried in family grave (light grey, rough granite, with low headstone and kerb): In memory of my beloved husband Hugh Rowlands D.S.O. M.C. of this town, died May 16, 1940, aged 56. The path of glory leads but to the grave. Also his loving wife Jeannie M. Rowlands. Died Aug. 28, 1973.
* ✿ 30 - John Newton Williams, Cpl 2/6 R.W.F. and Hugh 16th R.W.F.
John Newton Williams, Corporal 266790 Depot, Royal Welsh Fusiliers; eldest son of the late Peter and Anne Williams of 27 Castle Street, Beaumaris; educated Beaumaris Grammar School; worked for National Provincial Bank, latterly in Wolverhampton; died of pneumonia at Blackrock Military Hospital, Dublin, following operations on his leg; Beaumaris Cenotaph: J. N. Williams C.Q.M.S. R.W.F.
CWGC burial in Beaumaris Cemetery, private headstone (white marble, distinctive pink stain, with kerb and chain) - In Loving Memory of Peter Williams 27 Castle St. Beaumaris, who departed this life January 27th 1903, aged 55 years. “In the midst of life we are in death”. “And as thy servant was busy here and there, he was gone”. Also Margaret Beatrice, Infant daughter of the above named (Peter) and Anne Williams, who departed this life Oct 29th 1902. Also, John Newton, Cpl 2/6 R.W.F. eldest son of the above who died at Blackrock Military Hospital, April 19th 1919, aged 28 years. In Loving Memory of Hugh 16th R.W.F., 2nd son of the above who fell in action, near Mametz Wood, France, July 10th 1916, aged 24 years. “Thy will be done.” Also, Anne beloved wife of the above named Peter Williams, died on the 28th day of June 1938, aged 75 years.
✿ And his brother - Hugh 16th R.W.F.
William Hugh Williams, Acting Lance Corporal 21523, 16th Battalion Royal Welsh Fusiliers; second son of Peter and Anne Williams of 27 Castle Street (7 children lived, 6 boys); educated Beaumaris Grammar School; worked as a Tailor in Amlwch and London; killed in action at Mametz Wood in France; Llangoed War Memorial, Beaumaris Cenotaph: W. H. Williams L.Cpl. R.W.F.
CWGC William Hugh Williams - Lance Corporal - Service No: 21523 - Date of Death: Tuesday 11.07.1916 - Royal Welsh Fusiliers 16th Bn. - Commemorated Thiepval Memorial, France (no grave).
✿ 31 - In Loving Memory of Percy 13th R.W.F.
Born Beaumaris 1894; son of Edwin and Elizabeth Williams of the Bulls Head Inn; educated Beaumaris Grammar school; intended to become an Electrical Engineer, meanwhile was working in local ironmongery business; volunteered for service, killed in action at Mametz Wood; Beaumaris Cenotaph: P. Williams Pte. R.W.F.
CWGC: Private P. Williams – Service Number 17370 – Died Monday 10.07.1916 – Aged 21 – 13th Bn. Royal Welsh Fusiliers – Son of Edwin and Elizabeth E. Williams, of 36, Castle St., Beaumaris, Anglesey – Buried Dantzig Alley British Cemetery, Mametz.
Commemorated family headstone (simple cross on stepped pedestal): In loving memory of Edwin Williams who departed this life June 21st 1898 aged 38 years. Also Elizabeth his beloved wife who departed this life May 2nd 1928 aged 65 years. Nora Jones – died Feb 18, 1955 – Aged 58 years. In loving memory of Percy 13th R.W.F. the only son of Edwin and E. Williams, who fell in action near Mametz Wood France.
✿ 32 - Also, in loving memory of John, his beloved son, Tel. R.N.V.R. H.M.S. Ermine
John Parry, born April 1893, a Beaumaris lad; son of John and Annie Parry; 1901 the family lived at 12 Town’s End, in 1911 at Glandon; a Grocer’s assistant/traveller; joined RNVR July 1915; rated Telegraphist October 1916; killed in action, HMS Ermine sank after contact with a mine, close to Stavros in Greece; commemorated Plymouth Naval Memorial, Devon; Beaumaris Cenotaph: J. Parry Telt. R.N.V.R.
CWGC: John Parry Telegraphist - Service Number Mersey Z/541 – Died Monday 02.08.1917 – Aged 24 – M.F.A. “Ermine” – Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve – Son of John and Annie Parry, of 1, Alma St., Beaumaris, Anglesey – Commemorated Plymouth Naval Memorial (no grave).
Commemorated on family headstone (IHS design): In Memory Of Mary the beloved wife of John Parry 4 West End, Beaumaris, who died May 14th 1890, Aged 60 years. Also John Parry son of the above. who died June 27th 1930 Aged 57 years. Also, in loving memory of John, his beloved son, Tel. R.N.V.R. H.M.S. Ermine who fell in action in Aegean Sea August 2nd 1917, Aged 24 years “Ai Hun Mor Dawel yw”. Also Ann Parry, who died Oct 17th 1950 aged 84 years.
✿ 33 - In loving Memory of Lieut. A. Trevor Williams of the R.W.F. attached R.F.C.
Born Liverpool, mother had been brought up at Olinda, Beaumaris; he attended Liverpool College and was studying medicine at Liverpool University when he signed up in the RWF, November 1916; transferred to Royal Flying Corps; killed in action; buried Lapugnoy Military Cemetery; Beaumaris Cenotaph: A. T. Williams 2nd Lieut. R.E.C.
CWGC: Arthur Trevor Williams - Second Lieutenant - Died: Tuesday 4 September 1917 - Age: 21 – 25th Sqdn. Royal Flying Corps & 15th Bn. Royal Welsh Fusiliers - Son of Henry E. and Margaret A. Williams, of 94, Anfield Rd., Liverpool – Buried Lapugnoy Military Cemetery, Pas de Calais.
Commemorated on family headstone (stone carved like rustic wooden logs): Beaumaris Cemetery, Family Grave: Er serchog gofadwriaeth am Thomas Hughes Olinda. Yr hwn a hunodd Ionawr 28ain 1908 yn 75 mlwydd oed hefyd Thomas Henry Williams wyr yr uchod yr hwn a hunod Chwefror 20fed 1862 yn 13 mis oed. In loving memory of Lieut. A. Trevor Williams of the R.W.F. attached R.F.C. The only beloved son of A. E. & M. A. Williams of Anfield Rd. Liverpool & Olinda Beaumaris who fell in action at Lens, France September 24th 1917 aged 21 years. He gave his life for his country. Also the above named H. E. Williams who died Nov 2 1929, aged 76 years (poem in Welsh, illegible) Also the above named M. A. Williams who died June 18, 1950 aged 90 years.
34 - Anne Thomas. Born May 1 1826. Died January 5 1892 - Also In Loving Memory of her son John Lloyd Thomas Deputy Surgeon General Royal Navy. Born 3rd September 1856, died 8th June 1913. Imbued with the high (?) traditions of the Service to which he belonged, Skilled in (?) and faithful to his duty, He served his Country well in many lands. He was a Man of Singular character A good Man, a loyal Friend and a trusty Counsellor in Time of Trouble
John Lloyd Thomas, son of a Beaumaris butcher; career Royal Navy Surgeon who rose to be Deputy Surgeon General; news in the local paper that he was serving on the ‘Temeraire’ in 1886, the Royal Navy’s third vessel of that name; died at 97 Canning Street, Liverpool at the age of 56.
✿ 35 - Also, in loving memory of W. Eric Thomas Sec. Lieut M.G.C. who fell in the Great War
William Eric Thomas, born Beaumaris 1897; son of Evan and Catherine (née Pritchard) Thomas of ‘Angorfa’ 5 Raglan Street, brother of Evan Pritchard Thomas; educated Beaumaris Grammar School; worked in Coal Exporter’s Office in Cardiff; served as Private 16191 13th Battalion Royal Welsh Fusiliers; commissioned Second Lieutenant May 1916, 20th Battalion RWF, transferred to Machine Gun Corps; missing, killed in action; Beaumaris Cenotaph: W. F. Thomas 2nd Lieut. Machine Gun Corps.
CWGC: William Eric Thomas – Second Lieutenant – 118th Coy. Machine Gun Corps (Infantry) - Died Tuesday 31st July 1917 – Age 20 – Son of the late Evan and Catherine Thomas of 5 Raglan St., Beaumaris, Anglesey; Commemorated Menin Gate, Ypres (no grave).
Commemorated on family flat headstone (slate, lettering only): In Loving Memory of Eunice Mary, Daughter of Evan and Catherine Thomas, Angorfa, Beaumaris. Died February 27th 1896. Aged 2½ years. “For of such is the Kingdom of God” And, in loving memory of the above named Evan Thomas. Late Borough Surveyor. Died January 25th 1913 Aged 63 years. “With Christ which is far better”. Also, in loving memory of W. Eric Thomas, Sec. Lieut. M.G.C. who fell in the Great War July 31st 1917, Aged 20 years. Also, in loving memory of Catherine, beloved wife of the above named Evan Thomas who passed away September 6th 1921 Aged 63 years. “At rest”.
✿ 36 - Dr Jim Davies O.B.E. 1923 - 2007
Born Pembrokeshire, served with the Royal Air force Volunteer Reserve, 8th man on a 7 crew Lancaster, he carried specialist equipment to block radar from German HQ to aircraft – an inexact science; plane shot down over Netherlands, passed along the line of Collaborators until betrayed, imprisoned in Antwerp then to Prisoner of War Camp, liberated by Russians and home after war; had been deputy Director of Education in Montgomeryshire, retired as Principal of the Normal College, Bangor (now part of the University); Chairman of NSPCC Cymru, Committee to raise money for a CT Scanner at Ysbyty Gwynedd and other projects.
Slate headstone with (deliberately) chipped corner: Dr. Jim Davies O.B.E. - 1923 – 2007 - Bewydrodd yn ddewr - Dros Ryddid - Dros Addysg - Dros Blant - Dros Elusen.
✿ 37 – Darren Amos Charlton. Aged 19 years.
Member of Beaumaris Lifeboat Crew; two trips as crew on supply ship to Antarctic Station; he won a design award with his design of the anchor now on his headstone; son of Shirley and Keith Charlton; brother of Abigail and Robert; grandson of Amelia and Ethel. A Beaumaris lad who had had been educated locally; he was crew on the Beaumaris Lifeboat from the age of 17; also crewed on British Survey Antarctic supply ships; his death was accidental.
Black granite headstone showing a lifeboat as it launches: Darren Amos Charlton – Aged 19 years. – 16th October 1970 – 26th April 1990. – Who sailed away to spread his love – Chosen for God’s voyage in heaven above – Everloving son of Shirley and Keith – Beloved brother of Abigail and Robert – Treasured grandson of Amelia and Ethel – Always thoughtful loving and kind – Memories to us all you’ve left behind – Broken hearts can never heal – You will God know how we all feel.
Compiled from the Cymdeithas Hanes Teuluoedd Gwynedd Family History Society - Memorial Inscriptions
Researched and compiled by Bridget Geoghegan to the memory of John Reilly, RSM 4th Hussars at the Battle of Balaclava; Lt 8th Hussars at the Battle of Gwalior; killed in action 21st June 1858.
Photograph of Beaumaris Cemetery Chapel looking towards the town; courtesy B Geoghegan
My grateful thanks to the following people for their help and advice: Karl Simpson whose idea I was allowed to copy; Anne Pedley, Clive Hughes and Al Poole, associated with the Royal Welch Fusiliers Museum; Dave Gallichan, Angie Hennessey, Alwen Ingledew and Edward Evans who live locally; Michael Burkham RWF retired who has answered many questions; Barry Hillier and others at the Holyhead Maritime Museum who helped with all things maritime; Steve of The War Graves Photographic Project (twgpp.org) who suggested other graves that should be on the list; Richard Edwardes-Evans (Commander RD* RNR) for his advice on matters Royal Navy and their casualties; members of the North Wales branch of the Western Front Association who have willingly given of their expertise; descendants who have read and approved my wording; Jo Gordon and Nigel Hargreaves (RAF retired) who read everything I have written and found it to be ‘appropriate and respectful’; Graham Stephen of https://geotopoi.wordpress.com/2015/05/03/beaumaris-cemetery.
Researched and compiled by Bridget Geoghegan, to the memory of John Reilly, Regimental Sergeant Major 4th Hussars at The Charge of the Light Brigade, my grandfather’s uncle. Without the discovery of this man in the family, I might never have started on this project.