John William Meakin
- Family History
- Military History
- Extra Information
- Photographs
John William Meakin was born in 1897 he was the son of John a lace maker and Mary Jane Meakin née Wilkinson and the brother of Mary Ellen and Anne Meakin. John was born in 1858 at Nottingham, Mary Jane Wilkinson was born in 1860 at Grantham, they were married in 1883 their marriage was recorded in the Basford registration district, they had 5 children. In 1911 the family lived at 68 Peveril Street, Radford, Nottingham, John is 53 yrs a lace maker he is living with his wife Mary Jane 51 yrs and two of their children, Mary Ellen 26 yrs a blouse machinist and John William 14 yrs an assistant undertaker.
John William Meakin enlisted in Nottingham and served with 'C' Coy, 1st Battalion Northumberland Fusiliers. He was killed in action on 26th March 1918 and is buried in Wailly Orchard Cemetery Grave Reference: II.A.3.
Inscription on family gravestone, Nottingham General Cemetery: ‘In loving memory of John, the beloved husband of Mary Jane Meakin, who died May 22nd 1919 aged 62 years. If affection could have saved thee thou wouldst still have lived. Also William the dearly loved son of the above killed in action in France, March 26th 1918, aged 21 years. Shattered hopes. Also Joseph & Elizabeth Meakin, father & mother of the above [John Meakin].’
