Thomas Arkwright
- Family History
- Military History
- Extra Information
- Photographs
Born in Wigan, Lancashire, Thomas Arkwright was the first child born to James and Elizabeth Alice Hollinsworth. The event happened in 1899 whilst the mother and father were resident at 6 Jockey Terrace, Wigan. After the second son, John was born, the family moved to Worksop which was around 1905/6. By 1911, 2 more siblings had been born, James Arkwright was employed as a miner, the family home was 37 James Street, and Thomas was attending school.
Pte Tom Arkwright Worksop Guardian 11 July 1919 In our issue of Aug 2nd 1918, we reported that Pte Tom Arkwright, Durham Light Infantry, eldest son of Mr and Mrs J Arkwright, 37 James Street, Worksop, had been missing since March 21st and we reproduced his photograph in the hope that it would be the means of his parents learning something more concerning him. Unfortunately this has not been the case and this week they received a letter from the War Office regretfully announcing that he was killed on or about that date. The late Pte Arkwright was well known and greatly liked. He was a well conducted youth and had the best of characters. Before enlisting, which he did on May 2nd 1917, he was employed as a porter at Shireoaks Station. He was 18 years old when he joined up, so that he was only a lad when he died fighting against the Germans. All honour to his memory. He was drafted to France in January last year and two months later, the days of his warfare had been accomplished. His last letter home was dated March 12th 1918, and we may be sure that it will be treasured by his parents as the farewell of their gallant son.
Commemorated on the Arras Memorial, France. Research by Colin Dannatt
