Harry Towlson
- Family History
- Military History
- Extra Information
- Photographs
Harry was born in 1888 in Nottingham and was the son of William and Sarah Towlson his siblings were: Ernest, Arthur, Clara, Alfred, Eliza and William (d. 19 April 1932). His father William died on 4 August 1909 aged 71 years. In the 1911 census he is living with his widowed mother Sarah at 196 High Street, Old Basford. He is single 23 years of age and a wheelwright. His mother Sarah died on 13 June 1925 aged 78 years. Harry married Florence Henrietta Chilton (born 12th May 1890) in Nottingham in 1914. According to the probate record of 1917, their home address was 196 High Street, Basford. The probate record proven in Nottingham on 5th October 1917 shows him as Harry Towlson of 196 High Street, Old Basford, an air mechanic in HM Army, died on 29th June 1917 at Ayr in North Britain. Effects £270. Probate was awarded to his widow Florence Henrietta. Commencing 31st December 1917 his widow as awarded a pension of 13 shillings and 9 pence a week.
AMII H Towlson of No 2 (Auxiliary) School of Aerial Gunnery at Turnberry was killed in an accident while flying as observer in FE2b 4926 on 26 June 1917. The pilot, 2Lt Cyril Ashley Cooper (formerly East Yorks Regt), died on 29 June from injuries received when the aeroplane crashed near Maidens when it stalled during a turn. Harry is buried in Nottingham (New Basford) Cemetery (grave ref. F.1.3).
Inscription family gravestone, Basford Cemetery, Nottingham Road, Nottingham: 'In loving memory of William Towlson, who died August 4th 1909 aged 71 years. Also of Harry, beloved son of the above and husband of Florence H Towlson, who was killed in flying test (RFC Scotland) June 29th 1917, aged 30 years. Not our will but thine O Lord be done. Also Sarah Towlson wife of the above, who died June 13th 1925, aged 78 years. At rest. Also William, the dearly loved husband of Clarice Towlson, and son of the above, who died April 19th 1932, aged 47 years. Sometime we’ll understand.’
