The Circuit included the following Churches:-
High West Street; East Street; Durham Road; Low Fell; Mount Pleasant; Bill Quay; Felling; Wrekenton; Springwell; Washington; Usworth Colliery; Usworth Village; Team Colliery; North Biddick and Sunderland Road
The names included are as follows:
Adams Jas.; Aisbitt Thomas; Alexander Glasgow; Anderson - ; Arkle Leslie; Arkle Norman; Atkinson Rich.; Attwater A.; Attwater Albert;
Baggott Ruby; Bell E.; Bell F.; Bell R.; Bird R.T.; Bird T.M.; Bird W.T.; Blyth Adam; Blyth David; Blyth Jacob; Blyth William; Brass J.R.; Breckon Ralph; Brotherton Joseph; Browell James; Brown Cecil; Brown James; Brown Robt.; Bruce Jack; Bruce John; Burgess A.; Burgess F.; Burnitt Joseph; Burns Arch.; Burns Daniel; Burns John T.; Bush F.; Bush H.
Clark John; Clough William; Collins Thos.; Copplestone Sidney; Coulson (Coulon) Arthur; Coulson Jack; Coulson John Robert; Coulson R.; Coulson Rennison; Coulson W.; Coxon J.R.; Crabtree George; Crabtree Jack; Crooks John; Curry Wm.
Davidson A.; Davidson S.L.; Davison John G.; Davison Tom; Dick Thomas; Dickenson T.; Dickenson T.H.; Dickenson Wm.; Douglas E.; Douglas Tom; Dykes John
Elliott Arthur; Elliott Herbert; Elliott Tom; Embleton W.C.; Evans James
Ferry J.; Floyd Arthur; Forster William; Foster W., Fortune G.S.; French Pte.
Gardner G.; Gardner Hubert; Gaydon W.; Gibson Walter; Glasgow Alexander: Glasgow William; Goodfellow Thos.; Goodley Harold; Goodley Harold; Gorman Wm.; Gowland Wallace Henderson; Graham Herbert; Graydon W. ;Green T.; Green Thos.; Grundy Harry; Gustard Arthur; Gustard Hylton
Haddon F.; Hankin Jas.; Harle R.; Harle Robert; Harper W.; Harry Thompson; Henderson Robert; Henderson W.; Herrington Frank; Hetherington W.; Hogg Frank; Horsley Norman; Hounam Robert; Hughes Robt.; Hughes Thomas; Hughes W.E.;
Jackson A.; James N.; Johnston Geo.; Johnston John; Jukes F. Pte.
Keeley Glen; Keenleyside W.; Kennedy Allen W.; King Ed.
Lamb Cuthbert; Lamb Robert; Lamb Sergt.; Lamb Wheatley; Layton Reuben; Leslie Lumsden; Lewis F.; Lowes Richard; Lowes Robt. D.; Lowry James; Lumsden Leslie; Lunn Norman; Lunn Ramsey; Lunn Stanley H.
Mackay Mark; Marriner Matthew; Marshall Frank; Marshall Fred; Martin Wm.; McCall Alec; McCall Jas.; McGregor Robt.; McGregor Wm.; McPhail D.; Mearis T.; Melville M.; Moffatt W.; Mole Geoffrey; Mordue George; Morrison Thomas; Morrison William; Murray F.; Musgrave Geo.
Newton Harold; Nicholson Edmund; Nicholson H.; Nixon L.; Norman Pte.; Norris Ernest
Olds Harry; Olds Jos.; Olds Rich.; Olds Robt.; Ord Samuel
Platon Victor; Poulton Howard
Ramsay W.N.; Raw Tom; Reay Theo; Rennison R.; Rennison Wm.; Richardson -; Richardson Ernest; Richardson Parmley; Riddle Thos.; Riddle William; Robert Halliday; Robertson G.; Robinson Percy; Robson Geo.; Robson Robt. E.; Rogers J.; Rothera R.
Scott Arthur Sen.; Scott Wm.; Scrother F.; Scowther Fred; Shaw B.; Shaw Robert; Shaw Urwin; Short John; Sides Edward; Simpson J.H.; Skelton Geo.; Skelton John; Smiles T.C.; Smith David; Smith Garvie; Smith Thos.; Southern Robt.; Speed George T.; Spence Joseph; Stafford J.F.; Standing Arthur; Staplin Harold; Stead V.; Steele Wm.; Stephenson Chas.; Stephenson Norman; Sterling Frank; Stokoe John; Stott --; Suttie (Suttee) George; Swan W. Jnr.; Swinburne F.J.; Swinburne Fred J.
Talbot Peter; Taylor J.W.; Thompson Harry; Thompson R.C.; Thompson William; Thompson W.V.; Thompson R.C.; Treadwell Geo.; Tulip Robert
Urwin E.; Urwin Fred; Urwin H.
Walker B.; Walker W.; Walton Geo.; Watson Wm. E.; Wearmouth G.W.; Weedy John Joseph; White Richard; Whitfield Allan; Williams John; Williams Osman; Wilson John; Wilson N.; Wilson Stainton; Wood John; Wood Niel; Wraith C.L.; Wraith T.S.; Wright I.G.; Wright W.C.
Yates John
SEPTEMBER 1914
Washington
Washington has been badly hit by the war. The pits have only worked three days in the past three weeks. Already the Relief Committee on which our minister and other members of our Church are serving is dealing with cases of acute distress. Our Church sewing meeting has been temporarily replaced by a War Sewing Guild.
OCTOBER 1914
Durham Road
War Relief Fund – Retiring collections were taken on two Sundays and amounted to over £4. Collections were also made in the “Sisterhood” 10s and the “People’s Own” 7s in aid of the same fund.
Low Fell
The War – On August 23rd retiring collections were taken in aid of the Prince of Wales National Relief Fund and £5 7s was realised and forwarded.
Our Church Bazaar which was being arranged for November has been postponed indefinitely on account of the War. One of our rooms is used each Wednesday for Sewing Meetings in connection with our soldiers, and several of our lady workers assist in this patriotic work.
The Trustees and Committee of the Institute have granted the use of the Reading Room to any of the territorials attending our services. The Sunday School premises are at the call of the Army authorities and may be required at short notice, for a temporary hospital.
We are proud of the noble and ready response that our young men have made to the call of King and Country. No fewer than twenty four of those associated with our church have offered and have been accepted for training and service. They are: Messrs. N. Arkle, A. Coulon, J. Coulson, T. Davison, T. Douglas, E. Douglas, J. Evans, A. Floyd, (organist), G. Gardner, H. Gardner, W. Glasgow, W. Henderson, N. Lunn, S. Lunn, Frank Marshall, H. Poulton B.Sce., T. Reay, B. Shaw, U. Shaw, N. Stephenson, G. Suttee, H. Thompson, W.V. Thompson, and F. Urwin. Our united prayers are with them.
Sunderland Road
National Relief Fund: Special collections were made on Sunday September 14th. Prayers were offered invoking the help and guidance of Almighty God in this hour of crisis and our sailor lads were particularly remembered in the singing of the hymn “Eternal Father strong to save”; the collections amounted to £1 3s.
Bill Quay
Weeknight Service- On Tuesday August 25th one of our young men on trial Mr C. Parkin of Felling preached his trial sermon for full plan. The congregation was 41. We wish that all the week evening preaching services were as well attended. All our services have been influenced by the war. It is well for us to remember King and Country at this time, to offer prayers for our soldiers and sailors to seek a special blessing for all those whose hearts are wounded, whose life is darkened by the loss of loved ones in battle. Let us pray too that soon there may come honourable and lasting peace.
NOVEMBER 1914
High West Street
During this time of national crisis we would remind all who can attend, of the Friday night prayer meeting, which has for years provided a bright hour for prayer and praise. We cannot all respond to Lord Kitchener’s appeal but we can all answer God’s call to prayer.
Low Fell
The Brotherhood continues its good work on Sunday afternoons and has been addressed during the past month by Mr Jas. Jackson, Mr C.J. Good, Rev. W. Dawson, and Mr S. Easton to whom thanks are due. On Oct. 11th the meeting was quite military in its character. It was presided over by Driver Headon 2nd battery R.F.A.; the soloist was Lieut. J.J. Tinkler 6th D.L.I. and over one hundred were present including many territorials. Mr Tyas gave an able address.
Our Institute has been thrown open for the free use of our soldiers and the invitation has been met by the ready response and appreciation of the men in camp at Ravensworth. It is a pleasing sight of an evening to see the soldiers, sometimes numbering over a hundred, availing themselves of the welcome afforded and making themselves at home. Here a group at a table writing their letters, there a group reading, some enjoying a game of draughts or dominoes etc, a group around the fire’s hospitable blaze engaged in conversation, others disporting themselves upon the parallel bars and all occasionally bursting out in chorus with the cluster around the piano who are lustily wrestling with popular songs old and new.
At about 8.30 coffee and buns are handed round and “The National Anthem” rounds off each merry evening. The refreshments are well organised by Mrs Copplestone and the British Women’s temperance Association, four ladies sharing the cost and labour each evening while Mrs Greener, Miss Smith and Miss E. Poulton divide the duties at the piano.
On Sunday evening after service the gathering engages in singing favourite hymns, listens to a few words from Mr Bamford and partakes of refreshments provided.
The long list of those associated with our church who have entered into Army Service given last month requires to be extended by the following omissions and additions:- Messrs W. Clough, S. Copplestone, H. Goodley, R. Henderson, R. Lunn, G. Mole, E. Nicholson and F. Scrother.
A retiring collection was taken after the service last Sunday evening in aid of the distressed Belgians and over £2 10s was realised.
DECEMBER 1914
High West Street
The Old Lecture Hall has now been converted into a Soldier’s Home. There are writing materials, games, books and papers, and refreshments are provided at nominal prices. Since the room was opened (when the soldiers came to town) a very encouraging number have taken advantage of it, each evening. On Sundays the hall is open from 5 to 9 and at 8 o’clock a Social Hour is held. Short addresses are given, solos are sung and light refreshments are handed round.
It is with feelings of regret that we have to report the loss of our choirmaster and organist Mr G. Robertson jun. having enlisted. During the four years which they have been with us the choir has improved very considerably. We greatly appreciate the work they have done and wish them every success as they leave us.
Team Colliery
We are having our numbers thinned by the war. Two of our teachers Messrs O. Williams and H. Grundy have entered H.M. Service and have gone to Newhaven. Our organist has also joined the forces but is training at home. Mr P. Talbot is leaving to join the ambulance section in France and doubtless will have seen some heartrending sights ere these notes are in print. The prayers of the Church follow our brethren who are helping to quench the power of the “Mailed Fist.”
JANUARY 1915
Local Preachers Meeting
It was decided to write brotherly letters to R.C. Thompson and Harold Goodley, two of our young men now serving their King and Country.
FEBRUARY 1915
Low Fell
Augmented by the presence of a large number of brothers in uniform, a capital congregation of worshippers assembled on Christmas morning to do homage to the Babe of Bethlehem and to express their gratitude for God’s great gift to men.
Lieut. Floyd being at home presided at the organ and also on the following Sunday.
The Lancashire Regiment that was billeted at Low Fell has been removed and our friends of the Durham Light Infantry have returned to take their place and the Institute continues to be their rendezvous each evening.
Our Chapel Organ has for some time needed serious attention but the expense has stood in the way. However, thanks to the Sale of Work the Trustees were able to offer to pay the greater part of the cost, if the Choir could undertake to raise £10 of it. This the Choir generously consented to do, and on January 6th arranged a Concert in the Southern Memorial Hall the programme being entirely given by the men of the popular Lancashires, under the buoyant leadership of Bombardier Robinson. There was a crowded audience and a most interesting programme of music and recitals, showing the versatility and artistic power of our friends in khaki was heartily enjoyed by all present. The proceeds supplemented from the Choir Fund have made it possible for the Choir to fulfil their good part of the undertaking. A letter from the Commanding Officer was read appreciating the kindness shown to the men during their sojourn at Low Fell and our thanks and appreciation of the splendid help the men had so freely given was ably voiced by Mr W.J. Greener and enthusiastically endorsed by the audience.
As a consequence to the above the organ is now being thoroughly cleaned repaired and improved. On Sunday last it had a distressful appearance and the choir stalls were deserted. The Choir with the aid of the American Organ led the singing from the corner of the Chapel downstairs near the vestry door.
During the past weeks many of our soldier boys connected with our Church have been home on furlough for a few days. It has been a delightful pleasure to see their familiar and healthful faces, and to find them bearing so nobly their part of the burden of national peril which presses upon us all in these unusual times.
Team Colliery
The Sunday School continues to hold its own though at present we are suffering somewhat owing to the shortage of experienced teachers.
The teachers who joined His Majesty’s Services have been presented with knapsack bibles which are very much appreciated by the brethren.
Mount Pleasant
The following, amongst others, now serving in the Army and Navy are either at present connected with the Mount Pleasant Church or have been in the past:- Geo. Robson Sergt. 2nd Rifle Brigade, F. Burgess, Corp. 2nd Northumberland Fusiliers, F. Bush, H. Bush and W. Gaydon 1st Commercial Battalion; B. Walker Army Service Corps; E. Bell 9th Durham Light Infantry; F. Lewis HMS Porpoise; A. Burgess HMS Otranto; W. Swan Jnr. Lieut. 9th Durham Light Infantry and W. Coulson.
On Wednesday 2nd December a Concert in aid of the Belgian Relief Fund was given by the children of the Sunday School in the United Methodist Schoolroom kindly lent by the Trustees for the purpose. Mr H. Lynn occupied the chair, and carried out his part of the programme admirably. The weather was not very favourable – wind and rain- but in spite of this the Schoolroom was crowded. People had to shut themselves up like telescopes so that two people could sit where one had sat. The children (trained by Mrs W. Downie) did wonderfully well, the very little ones being best of all. The effort realised £5 13s 9d which has been handed over to the Belgian Consul.
Sale Of Work – the net proceeds reached the satisfactory amount of £39 of which at least a fourth will be devoted to Patriotic Funds.
Bill Quay
War News- The Church has lost an earnest, useful and ardent worker (we hope only temporarily) in Mr F.J. Swinburne. He has been an active worker in every part of the Church’s life. We extend to him good wishes and good luck now he is serving King and Country in the R.A.M.C.
Springwell
We commend to the prayers of the congregation those of our brethren who are serving their country as soldiers and as St John’s Ambulance men.
Washington
The Sewing Meetings continue weekly. Since the war began about £40 has been raised by subscription and the weekly tea and spent on warm material for the troops. It has now been decided that the work on alternate Wednesdays shall be for our own Church Sewing Meeting to clear the money paid into the Clubs last year. The proceeds of the teas each week will still be devoted to material for soldiers and sailors.
North Biddick
The Choir – 3 members H. Nicholson, N. James and W. Walker have joined the new army and are at present stationed at Aylesbury. We were pleased to see them home on leave for a few days at Christmas. In addition to the above several old Sunday School boys and at least one faithful member of the congregation are serving with the colours.
MARCH 1915
Usworth Colliery
Roll of Honour – Four of our members have joined the colours, two of whom were Sunday School Superintendents, and two choir members. We pray that God’s grace may sustain them.
JUNE 1915
High Street West
We have reason to believe that our “Soldiers’ Home” which we opened soon after war was declared has been much appreciated by many who were being trained for active service. Scores of young men belonging to various regiments billeted in our town have from time to time paid visits. Writing paper, games, literature, music and refreshments were provided for them; and several of them have said that but for such ?? their nights would have been spent at public houses. Thanks are due to the Committee and the Ladies who have worked so well for our brave lads.
Many of the “Durhams” passed through the “Home”. We regret that some were killed and were wounded in the recent battle at Ypres. It is a satisfaction to know that we have been of some service to those who a few days ago were complimented by General Sir John French upon the brilliant work they had done.
Durham Road
The wedding took place on Tuesday April 27th in our Church of Private G.W. Wearmouth and Miss Ida M. Wheatley, both teachers in our Sunday School.
A number of our young men have enlisted in the King’s Army and we hope to publish a Roll of Honour shortly amongst them are our organist Mr T. Mearis and one of our Poor Stewards Mr Ralph Breckon both having joined the R.A.M.C.
Mr Albert Attwater who used to be associated with our Church is an Artificer in the Royal Navy and is serving aboard HMS Sydney and was in action when the raider “Emden” was destroyed off Cocos Keeling Island on November 9th. We are sorry to note the death of Lieut. J.R. Brass 8th Batt. D.L.I. who was wounded in the Battle of Ypres. When billeted in Gateshead Lieut. Brass attended several of our services.
JULY 1915
Local Preachers’ meeting
Bro T. Dickenson was examined for Full Plan by the Superintendent, Mr W.P. Parker reporting on his final sermon after which our Brother was unanimously passed upon Full Plan. God bless our Bro. in this service. We are sorry we will not just at present have the services of Bro Dickenson who has just joined the Army. Mr R.C. Thompson who has been serving King and Country since the outbreak of the war is to be given the opportunity of taking his examination before a Committee so that he might have his name on Full Plan.
High West Street
Last month we referred to the High West Street Soldiers’ Home and what it sought to do for those who were in training for the front. Obviously the carrying out of such a home meant considerable expense. The Committee well knowing that the Trustees were already bearing heavy financial burdens arranged for a Concert, to be given on June 9th, so as to meet the liabilities incurred through lighting, heating etc of the home. The Concert was quite a success. The artistes acquitted themselves most creditably especially the ventriloquist. A good company was present and the Chairman was Ald. L.T. Penman.
Low Fell
Our rooms are still of service to the soldiers, at present the Third Northumbrian Brigade of the Royal Artillery (Second Line) are billeted at Low Fell and good numbers of the men are welcomed each evening. Letter writing, games, physical exercises, and music are the occupations of the visitors and light refreshments are handed round at the close. It is a pleasure to be able to render this little help. The soldiers continue to attend service each Sunday morning on parade and their presence is a stimulus. The singing of the National Anthem at the close of the service and the lining up of our soldier friends outside are pleasing features to which we have become quite accustomed.
Team Colliery
We are losing the services of other two of our teachers who have joined H.M. Forces. Their names being Robt. Harle and Thos. Green. We wish them God speed and a safe return at the close of the war.
AUGUST 1915
Durham Road
A special service was held on Sunday evening June 20th, in honour of the young men who have joined the colours from our Church. The service was conducted by the Rev. John H. Doddrell who took for his subject “Our National Heroes” and at the close of his discourse read the Durham Road “Roll of Honour” which contained 26 names. Special music was rendered by the Choir and the solo “Arm, Arm ye Brave” was sung by Private Robert Hounam R.F.A. a member of the Choir.
The members of Mr Watkin’s Class held a Social Gathering on July 6th, the object of which was to present bibles to the young men of the class who had joined the colours. Solos were sung by Miss Dunn and Private Allan Whitfield and at the request of the company the Rev J.H. Doddrell also sang a solo. Refreshments were handed round.
Low Fell
We have had many organists since our regular player Mr Floyd left on Army service last year.
During the past week many of the young men belonging to our Church have gone to the front with their regiments. Many anxious thoughts go out after them and prayers for their safety and return when the dread war is over are daily offered.
Felling
We still have the presence of a few of our soldier friends at our adult Bible Class, and we gladly report a sustained attendance of the members.
We are providing a concert party for our soldiers at the camp on July 16th and have secured a number of first class artistes who are giving their services gratuitously.
Our sincere and heartfelt sympathy is extended to Mr and Mrs Gustard and family in their sad lost and bereavement. Their son Hylton one of four brothers who are serving their country was recently killed at the front. May the family find succour and consolation in the sustaining power of Grace Divine.
Wrekenton
We have been very pleased to see a few men in khaki attending our Sunday evening services and think our Church ought to do something during the week to entertain the soldiers who have come to camp close to us.
Springwell
We have now thrown open our premises for the use of our soldiers, for reading and games etc, between the hours of 6pm and 9pm. We supply them with a light refreshment, to provide which I am sure the public of Springwell have responded well. The boy scouts are doing good work by collecting newspapers etc for the use of the soldiers.
On June 25th we gave a concert at the Heworth camp. The artistes did exceedingly well. We thanks Messrs Clifford, Bell, Alderson, Stephenson, Gibson, J. Gibson , Ranson and Anderson for their services trusting for their help again at some future occasion.
Correspondence
The following is an extract from a letter from one of our circuit friends who has been serving on a hospital train in France:-
We started from Boulogne to go to the front and broke down at a place called Saint Omer. We stayed about two hours until we got the carriages on to the other engine and then set off to go further up. We waited for orders near the front and then proceeded to Lillers where we started to load up with men from the trenches. A big battle was raging. It was awful to see the wounded men of the Black Watch. The big guns were firing and we could hear the bursting shells as we proceeded to Bethune where we hadn’t been long when the Germans started to shell the houses and the hospitals. It was pitiful to see the people running from their homes and the noise was dreadful. Three hospitals, the station and many houses were brought to the ground. The shells were bursting round us when we backed for safety to Lillers. We brought about 200 Germans wounded and many of the Black Watch from the trenches. We were carrying for about 16 hours. Just when we had got all loaded up an enemy aeroplane came over and dropped four bombs at us. One of them blew the line up about 36 yards in front of the train. One bomb dropped in the village and I went over to see the place. All the houses round the spot where the bomb fell were wrecked. I saw two women killed and a lame man lying dead. A little boy had his leg blown off and seven others were wounded it was awful to see them suffering. We next proceeded when the line was repaired to Poperinghe near Ypres. There about two in the morning we started to load about 410 wounded. Many were badly cut up. We had just got them in when the station was shelled and again the line was damaged. It was midnight before we got away. It was mournful to see 25 gravediggers burying the dead in the Belgian fields. It was heart breaking to see so many crosses erected in the fields. We started back for Boulogne in the morning and arrived about 3pm. As soon as we were unloaded we set off again for the front loaded 200 British and 300 Germans whom we took to Le Havre stopping at Rouen to put off eight who had died on the train.
Roll of Honour
Low Fell
Norman Arkle, Leslie Arkle (lost in HMS Viknor), William Clough, Sidney Copplestone, Arthur Coulson, R. Coulson, Jack Coulson, Jack Crabtree, George Crabtree, Tom Davison, John G. Davison, Tom Douglas, Arthur Elliott, Tom Elliott, James Evans, Arthur Floyd, William Forster, Hubert Gardner, Gordon Gardner, William Glasgow, Alexander Glasgow, Harold Goodley, -- Gowland, Wallace Henderson, Robert Henderson, W. Keenleyside, Robert Lamb, Reuben Layton, James Lowry, Ramsey Lunn, Norman Lunn, Stanley H. Lunn, Fred Marshall, Frank Marshall, Geoffrey Mole, George Mordue, William Morrison, Thomas Morrison, Edmund Nicholson, Howard Poulton, Victor Platon, Ernest Richardson, Tom Raw, Theo Reay, Percy Robinson, Fred Scowther, Urwin Shaw, Robert Shaw, Norman Stephenson, George Suttie, Edward Sides, Chas. Stephenson, -- Stott, William Thompson, Harry Thompson, Fred Urwin, H. Urwin, John Williams, John Wilson, Richard White.
Durham Road
Lieut. W.N. Ramsay 16th Batt N.F., Pte G.W. Wearmouth 13th Batt. N.F., Serg. Herbert Graham 84th Field Battalion R.E., Ptes. T Mearis R.A.M.C., W Hetherington R.A.M.C., Jas. Adams N.C.B., Jas. Knox 9th D.L.I., Ralph Breckon R.A.M.C., Wm. Dickenson 2nd Field Co. R.E., Allan Whitfield 1st Northumberland Brigade R.F.A., Robt. Hounam R.F.A., Jas. McCall R.N. Mine Sweeping, Herbert Elliott R.A.M.C., W. Harper R.A.M.C., Q.M.Sergt. E. Urwin 9th D.L.I., Artificer A. Attwater R.N. H.M.A.S. Sydney, Mr Leslie Lumsden O.T.C., Corp. T.S. Wraith N.H., I.Y., L.-Corp. C.L. Wraith 12th C.M.R., Ptes I.G. Wright C.G., W.C. Wright 9th Lancers, N. Wilson R.A.M.C., T.H. Dickenson N.F., W. Moffatt R.E., Capt. G.S. Fortune 18th N.F., Pres. Ed. King 18th Batt. D.L.I., Walter Gibson 6th N.F.
Team Colliery
O. Williams R.G.A., H. Grundy R.G.A., P. Talbot Hospital Trains, H. Staplin 9th D.L.I., T. Green R.N., R. Harle R.N.
Mount Pleasant
Geo. Robson Serg. 2nd R.B., F. Burgess Corp. 2nd N.F., F. Bush, H. Bush and W. Graydon 1st Com. Batt., B. Walker A.S.C., F. Bell 9th D.L.I., F. Lewis HMS Porpoise, A. Burgess HMS Otranto, W. Swan Jnr. Lieut. 9th D.L.I., W. Coulson, L. Nixon Merc. Marine Special Service
Sunderland Road
L-Corp. D. McPhail D.L.I., Sapper R. Rothera R.E., Pte R. Bell D.L.I.
Felling
Lieut. Frank Hogg A.V.C. 1st Indian Calvary, Lieut. Geo. Treadwell, E Lancs., W.O. John Dykes E. Yorks, Serg. R.C. Thomson A.S.C., Sergt. Wm. McGregor D.L.I., Corp. Stainton Wilson A. & S. High., Corp. Wm. Scott Tyne. Scot., L-Corp. Richardson D.L.I., Bomb. Harry Olds R.F.A., Bomb. John Bruce R.G.A., Bomb. Robt. Southern R.F.A., Ptes. Robt. Brown D.L.I., John Crooks R.A.M.C., Rich. Olds D.L.I., Robt. Olds D.L.I., Jos. Olds A.S.C., Thos. Smith A.S.C., Niel Wood A.S.C., John Wood A.S.C., Ruby Baggott D.L.I., David Smith D.L.I., Garvie Smith D.L.I., Geo. Musgrave R.F.A., Jas. Hankin Con. Rang., Parmley Richardson Tyne. Irish, Robt. Hughes R.F.A., Norman Horsley D.L.I., Bugler Thos. Usger R.E.; Ptes. Jack Boyd 9th D.L.I.; Ezra Collins, Wm. E. Watson R.N.F.C., Arthur Scott Sen. E.R.A., Thomas Hughes Naval Camp, W.E. Hughes R.N.D.
Springwell
Thomas Aisbitt, S.J.A.B.; Frank Sterling R.A.M.C.; John Joseph Weedy S.J.A.B.; John Robert Coulson R.F.A.; Glen Keeley N.F.; Thos Riddle D.L.I.; William Riddle D.L.I.; Joseph Burnitt A.S.C.; Geo. Walton D.L.I.
SEPTEMBER 1915
Hospital life in England
There are comparatively few people who really understand the work that is being carried on in our hospitals at home. Up and down our land are numerous hospitals all of which are efficiently equipped and are staffed by well experienced doctors, nurses and RAMC men. Their work consists of receiving and attending to the needs of the sick and wounded soldiers from our Home and Overseas forces. During the last year in one hospital alone over 22,000 men were treated, nearly 3,000 operations were performed and out of that number only 137 men died. This speaks loudly for the efficiency of the staff. Nor is this any singular instance for similar work is carried on throughout the country.
It is surprising that whilst there is so much pain and suffering how much merriment and cheerfulness abounds amongst the men. I have found it a rule that the men who have suffered the most seems to be the most cheerful. On one occasion whilst assisting in unloading an ambulance train I found a man smoking a cigarette whilst lying on his stretcher and I noticed him cracking a joke with a comrade nearby. When I asked him how he was he told me that his arm was badly smashed and that he had left his right leg in France. Another , a broad Scotch man, told me in a very jocular mood that he had been in collision with some shrapnel which had given him a permanent pass for England. Such are the characteristics of the British Tommy and one continually comes in contact with these men who even though badly disabled can smile through it all and are thankful that they are alive. When you enter a ward in the hospital at any time of day you will find the men enjoying themselves at a game or singing a song.
Everywhere you go you meet this cheerful spirit. Officers, nurses and orderlies find it their only duty to make the men happy and comfortable in their suffering. It is a daily occurrence to find a Sister or Nurse writing a letter to a soldier’s mother or wife to tell her how he is progressing. They put themselves to many inconveniences to help a soldier who is far from home by innumerable acts of kindness. Such is the spirit which abounds. Such kindness is greatly appreciated and much can be done by the public outside by sending little necessities which tend to alleviate the long hours. The Christian spirit finds itself everywhere. Every soldier is a Christian at the bottom of his heart and when he approached in the right manner one finds that he takes more than an outward interest in religious matters. One brave lad who endured much suffering before he was taken from this life was found to possess two New Testaments. At the back of one of these was found his promise signed by himself wherein he took the oath of allegiance to the Master and promised to carry a testament wherever he went and read it every day. He had kept his promise to the end, and had brought his Testament through all the travails of the battlefield.
Other similar instances occur when a dying soldier has assured the Chaplain that he was quite happy and that he would soon reach the brighter day.
The work of the Chaplain is much appreciated, he goes quietly about chatting to the men and talking of their home life. When a lad is reported to be dangerously ill he attends at his bedside and ?? him up. A word of prayer and a few words of comfort bring joy to many a soul. Sometimes a comforting letter goes to the mother at the lad’s request. One finds that a soldier always turns to his mother when in suffering. “If you would only let my mother come and see me then I shall be happy” said one man. A touch of home does much to restore a man and help him to bear his pain cheerfully.
Much might be said of the good work that is being done but is sufficient for every anxious parent to know that though their son may be far away in some Hospital miles from home that he is being well cared for and that every effort is made to restore him to health and to make his lot the happier. H.G.
High West Street
The Committee of the Soldiers’ Home held a meeting under the Chairmanship of the Rev. C.R. Butcher and decided to hand over to the Trustees the sum of £10 so as to meet a portion of the liability incurred through the opening of the Home last winter.
Low Fell
During this time of unrest the Church is as a whole being constrained to pray earnestly for the welfare of its sons who are engage in the conflict. In the 9th Batt. Northumberland Fusiliers there are a large number of Low Fell young men serving in the ranks many of whom are closely associated with our Church and Sunday School. As this regiment is now with the Expeditionary Force in France there are many homes over which a cloud of constant anxiety hangs. We therefore call for a special prayer and more earnest prayer on behalf of these lads and the Christian families they represent. Whatever else we do or we do not do, the call to Prayer must be first. We appeal therefore to our people to help us and take every opportunity to attend the Prayer Meetings to ask for God’s care over all the young men from our Church who are now serving on foreign soil. The experience of faith has taught us that our prayers will not only sustain and comfort the hearts of anxious parents at home but that they will be a means of grace and strength to the youths themselves as they face the dangers of battle.
Sunderland Road
We regret to report that Corp. D. McPhail 6th Batt. N.F. (T.F.) has been killed in action. He was keenly interested in his military duties and had he survived would undoubtedly have secured further promotion. The atrocities perpetrated on the Belgian people seemed to stir his very soul and when the call came to serve his King and Country on the battlefield he nobly responded. He has fallen at the post of duty and somewhere in France or Flanders beneath the spreading branches of a chestnut tree a wooden cross marking his last resting place he sleeps “until the trumpet shall sound and the dead shall rise incorruptible.” Our prayers are extended to Mrs McPhail nee Dodsworth and family and we trust that in their great sorrow they may be cheered by the presence of the Master. “ Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends”.
East Street
The following members and adherents of our society have joined His Majesty’s forces Bro. Robt. McGregor D.L.I.; Thomas Dick; John Yates, Geo. Yates, Geo. Skelton, John Skelton, Geo. Johnston, John Johnston, Arch. Burns, Daniel Burns, John T. Burns, Joseph Brotherton, Harold Newton, Adam Blyth, Jacob Blyth, David Blyth, William Blyth, John Clark.
Bill Quay
Roll of Honour – our friends will find in this month’s magazine the first list of those who are now serving King and Country who have association with our Church. Many of the names which will appear have passed through our Sunday School or Band of Hope. We have lost sight of many for some time now but we remember them as having volunteered their life for our sake. We would like our Roll to be as complete as possible so will all who have friends or relations in the Army or Navy please to give their names rank and regimental number to the Society Stewards or Mr Fred Grunton.
Roll of Honour
2nd Lieut. Wm. Rennison 17th Lancashire Fusiliers; 2nd Lieut. J.F. Stafford (9th Durhams, Corp. Fred J. Swinburne R.A.M.C.; Corp. J.W. Taylor 8th Batt. D.C. Somerset L.I.; Pte. V. Stead Machine Section A.S.C. North; Pte. Richard Lowes 9th Durhams; Sapper Robt.D. Lowes R.E.; Pte. S.L. Davidson R.A.M.C.; Pte. A. Davidson 1st Australian L.H. Brigade; Pte. A. Jackson 4th West Yorks.; Seaman J.H. Simpson B.D.T.T. Anson Batt.; Artificer W. Foster R.N.; Gunner Mark Mackay Tynemouth R.G. Artillery; Pte. T.C. Smiles R.A.M.C.
Springwell
In connection with the Soldier’s Welcome held in the school room we are delighted to say that our efforts are being well appreciated by our soldier friends. They are making themselves at home and enjoying our hospitality to the full. On August 11th we gave them and the public a grand Concert for the benefit of the funds. The following artistes contributed to the evening’s entertainment:- Miss C. Stanners accompanist; Miss L. Brown soprano; Miss J. Watson contralto; Mr T. Hall reciter; Pte. Staplin piano; Mr R.D. Harland baritone; Mr C. Watson chairman. We desire to thank them all and the waiters for their services.
Washington
Roll of Honour
The following are serving with the Colours from our Church:- Pte. James Brown R.A.M.C.; Pte. Rennison Coulson R.F.A.; Pte. Thos. Goodfellow R.A.M.C.; Pte. Norman Herrington R.A.M.C.; Corp. Mat. Marriner R.F.A.; Pte. Matthew Marriner R.A.M.C.; Pte. Joseph Spence N.F.; Pte. John Stokoe R.E.
OCTOBER 1915
Low Fell
The War- our rooms continue to be a popular rendezvous for the soldiers stationed at Low Fell and every evening good numbers of the men of the 3rd R.F.A. 63rd Northumbrian Division encamped near Harlow Green and those of the Army Service Remounts Department billeted in the Council Schools gather for a social hour. Thanks are due to the many ladies and gentlemen who provide refreshment, writing materials and entertainment for the men and look after the successful management of the effort.
We have to add to our Church’s creditably long Roll of Honour the names of Messrs T.M. Bird; R.T. Bird and W.T. Bird brothers on Army service.
We are grieved to learn that Harry Thompson whilst serving at the front in the 48th Brigade D Battery 14th Division of the R.F.A. has been wounded by a bursting shell and is now in hospital at the base. We trust he may speedily recover.
Bill Quay
Roll of Honour
Seaman Allen W. Kennedy No 4321 2nd Res. Batt. R.N. Div.; Corp. Robt. E. Robson R.A.M.C. (Canadian Contingent) Corp. James Browell No 396 3rd Co. R.E.; Pte. F. Jukes No 3991 6th N.F.; L-Corp. Wm. Gorman No 50407 R.A.M.C.; Pte. W.C. Embleton No 118 16th Service Batt. N.F.
Felling
News has reached us from the front that one of our young men who responded to his country’s call had been killed whilst carrying out a duty which he had volunteered to do for his officer. In the act of carrying the message entrusted to him Bombardier Jack Bruce was overtaken by a shrapnel shell and instantly killed. Much sympathy is felt towards his relatives and friends. This was expressed by the President of the Adult Bible Class of which he was a member, he was also a member of our Choir and frequently took solo parts. He was of bright cheery disposition and his presence will be missed. At the Sunday evening service many of his relatives and friends had gathered, at which service the Rev. Frank H. Lowther in a very choice manner paid tribute to his memory, testifying to the Church’s deep sympathy with the sorrowing friends.
NOVEMBER 1915
Felling
We have further to add to our Roll of Honour the following names;
Arthur Standing S.J.A.B., Robert Tulip R.N., Rich. Atkinson A.S.C., Arthur Gustard 8th D.L.I., Cuthbert Lamb R.A.M.C., Alf. Audis (Canadian Contingent).
The Adult Bible Class has this month sent £1 to the funds of the Northumberland War Hospital and parcels to the Front.
Khaki! Khaki! The brighter side of which was seen on Thursday afternoon, October 7th in our Church when the Rev. F.F. Bretherton, B.A. joined together in matrimony Miss Martha Lamb and Corp. Ernest Norris of the Military Mounted Police. The bride was given away by her father Sergt. Lamb of the St. John’s Ambulance Corps. The Wedding March was played on the Organ by Mr Tom Lamb and a large company was present to watch the happy event. The bridegroom had travelled from Aldershot for the occasion and was under orders to proceed to the seat of war. The bride has been from infancy associated with our Church. On leaving the happy couple received the usual baptism of confetti and rice. They along with their guests proceeded to the home of the bride where a reception was held. We wish all joy to the newly wed in the coming days.
Springwell
On September 22nd we were favoured with a Grand Concert in aid of “Soldiers Welcome”. The following artistes contributed to the evening’s programme:- Miss E. Stanners accompanied by Miss E. Storey contralto; Miss J. Elder, soprano, Miss Tiplady reciter, Mr W. Chipchase baritone, Mr M. Ranson concertina, Mr Sweetland piano selections and club exercise, chairman Mr C. Watson, Mr J. Ranson accompanied concertina.
We had a delightful time and a good company, we desire to thank all who helped us on this occasion.
We have to notice that Mr J.R. Coxon has enlisted in the R.A.M.C. He was a teacher in our school. We trust that he may still continue to work for the King of Kings and that he may be spared to come back to his village chapel again.
Bill Quay
Roll of Honour continued
2nd Lieut. Wm. Martin 19th West Yorks., Sapper F. Murray No. 1105 No 2 Field Co Durham Fortress R.E., Seaman Wm. Curry No 2011 R.N.V.R., Tyneside, Seaman Jos. Anderson, No 2009 R.N.V.R. Tyneside, Private M. Melville 16th Batt. N.F. (Commercials), Sergt. J. Ferry No 379 C Co. 17th Service Batt. N.F. (Pioneers)
DECEMBER 1915
Baptisms
On November 4th by Rev. F.F. Bretherton B.A., Ronald son of the late Corp. D. and Annie McPhail of 104 Moore Street Gateshead.
Durham Road
The following names are added to our Church Roll of Honour:-
Wheatley Lamb L.R.B., Alec McCall R.G.A., Cecil Brown A.S.C., Robert Halliday N.F., F Haddon N.C.C.. We are pleased to learn that Leslie Lumsden has received a commission. A scheme is on foot to send Christmas presents from the Church to those men whose names appear on our Roll.
Low Fell
Intercession Sunday was duly observed on October 31st when able and appropriate discourses were delivered by Mr Fallaw in the morning and Rev G.H. Bamford in the evening. At the evening service each name on our long Roll of Honour was read out from the pulpit and a special prayer was offered for the gallant sons of our Church as well as the many others bravely bearing the brunt and burden of the war.
Sunderland Road
Intercession Day the collections for the War Emergency Fund amounted to 6 shillings and 5 pence.
Team Colliery
The Sunday School has lost all the young men as they have joined His Majesty’s service. The entire list is as follows;- Osman Williams, Harry Grundy R.G.S., Peter Talbot Ambulance trains – returned home, Harold Staplin 9th Durhams, Wm. Steele !6th N.F., Robert Harle, Thos. Green R.N., George T. Speed 9th Durhams, Samuel Ord R.F.A. We pray that they may all be kept. We commit them into God’s care and trust they may return safely.
Bill Quay
Intercession Sunday - During the evening service our Roll of Honour was read to the congregation. Roll of Honour continued Sapper John Short R.E., Private R. Rennison NF, Pte. J. French No 27863 3/5 D.L.I.
Springwell
We had our Harvest Thanksgiving Service on October 17th along with our children’s services. We were favoured with a visit from Pte. J. Rogers from Leam Camp. We had a splendid time together. He was assisted by a friend of his at night which had good results.
