Walter Sands
- Family History
- Military History
- Extra Information
- Photographs
Walter was born in 1898 in New Basford and was the son of Benjamin a gas works labourer and Emily Sands née Morton of 88 Eland Street, New Basford, Nottingham. His father Benjamin was born in 1861 in Sneinton and his mother Emily Morton was born in 1867 also in Sneinton, they were married in 1892 in Nottingham and went on to have 3 children all of whom were born in New Basford, Mabel b1893, Benjamin b 1896 and Walter born 1898. In the 1911 census the family were living at 51a Palm Street, New Basford, Nottingham and are shown as Benjamin 50 yrs a gas works labourerhe is living with his wife Emma 44 yrs and their children Mabel 18 yrs a hosiery worker (folder) Benjamin 15 yrs a hosiery sorter and Walter 12 yrs a scholar.
Lance Corporal Walter Sands, enlisted at Nottingham on 17th April 1915 , he gave his age as 19 yrs and 11 months, (he was under age, he correct age was 17 yrs ) his address as 88 Eland Street, New Basford, Nottingham, he gave his occupation as hosiery factory hand and his next of kin as his father Benjamin Sands of the same address. He was posted to the 8th Battalion King's Royal Rifle Corps, and joined his battalion at Winchester on 21st April 1915. He landed in France on 28th December 1915 and was promoted to Lance Corporal on 4th September 1916 . He died of wounds on 23rd December 1916 he was only 18 yrs of age and was buried in Avesne-le-Comte Communal Cemetery Extension.
Death notice published 4th January 1917 in the Nottingham Evening Post :- SANDS. – Died of wounds, December 23rd, 1916, Lance-Corporal W. Sands, K.R.R., 88, Eland-street, Old Basford, aged 18. We cannot understand God's purpose, but He knows best. – From father, mother, relations, and Renee.” In memoriam published 23rd December 1918 in the Nottingham Evening Post :- “SANDS. – In loving memory of my dear son, Lance-Cpl. Walter Sands, K.R.R., who died of wounds in France, December 23rd, 1916. Ever in our thoughts – Mother, sisters and brother Ben in France.” Above are courtesy of Jim Grundy and his facebook pages Small Town Great War Hucknall 1914-1918
