Edward Arthur Bright
- Family History
- Military History
- Extra Information
- Photographs
Edward Arthur was born in 1900 the son of Edward Arthur a body maker (motor) and Josephine Ann Bright (née Thomas). His father was born in 1865 at Barwick, Shrewsbury and his mother in 1871 at Hereford. Married in 1892 at Atcham Shropshire, they had six children one of whom died in infancy. Edward’s surviving siblings were Sarah b.1895 Shrewsbury, William b.1897 Birmingham, Eileen Josephine b.1903 Coventry and Norah b.1905 Beeston. In 1911 the family lived at 18 Beaconsfield Terrace, Harlaxton Street Nottingham. Edward’s father died on 22nd March 1916 aged 51 and his mother 27th January 1947 aged 75.
12th/13th Bn Edward Arthur Bright first enlisted on 9th October 1915 at Nottingham, giving his age as 19 years five months although he was under age (born in 1900 so was 15 yrs of age). He was posted to the 3/1st South Notts Hussars. Sometime later whilst he was training at Longmoor Camp his true age was discovered and he was discharged on 24th May 1916 under King's Regulations 392 'having made a mis-statement as to his age on enlistment'. At this time he was still only 16 years and 11 months old. He later joined up again and was serving with the Northumberland Fusiliers when he was killed in action. He has no known grave and his name is commemorated on the Vis En Artois Memorial Panel 3.
Inscription on headstone, Beeston Cemetery: 'Of your charity pray for the repose of the souls of Edward Bright who died March 22nd 1916 aged 51 years. Also Josephine Anna, his wife, who died Jan. 27th 1947, aged 75 years, and Pte. Edward Arthur Bright, Northumberland Fusiliers, killed in action in France Sept. 27th 1918 aged 19 years. On whose souls sweet Jesus have mercy.'
