Harold Andrew Smith

Harold Andrew was the second son of Andrew Clifford and Eva Olive Smith. Eva's maiden name was given as 'Willsher' on the marriage registration but other civil records have her maiden name as 'Wiltshire' or 'Willshire'. Andrew Clifford Smith was born in Birmingham in 1862. Eva Olive was born in Westerleigh, near Chipping Sodbury, Gloucestershire, in about 1861/62. Harold's parents were married in 1889. They had at least three children who were born in Birmingham: Clifford Aidan (Aidan), Harold Andrew b. 8 September 1893 and Howard Michael.In 1891 Andrew (29), a hatter, and Eva (29) were living in Westerleigh. They employed a domestic servant, Elizabeth Adams (15).By 1901 they had moved to 188 Charles Road, Aston, Warwickshire, and were living there with their three sons, Aidan (9), Harold (7) and Howard (4). Andrew was a shopkeeper (hatter). He and Eva employed a domestic servant. Harold's family emigrated to New Zealand, apparently for his father's health, although Harold himself remained in England as in 1911 at the age of 17 he was a pupil at Lancing College, Sussex. Lancing College was founded in 1848, the first of over 30 schools established by Nathanial Woodward; the schools were based on 'sound principle and sound knowledge, firmly grounded in the Christian faith.' Harold's younger brother, Howard Michael, served in the Welington Infantry Battalion, 'B' Company (33465 lance-corporal). He embarked with the 21st Reinforcements, New Zealand Expeditionary Force, date not known. His next of kin was his father, Andrew C Smith, of 24 Roy Street, Newtown, Wellington. Howard survived the war.