Brenda McMahon has submitted the following:-
Please note:-The information regarding this soldier has been examined as far as records have allowed. Unfortunately, the name Golden is a difficult name to research, as apart from family members other than Joseph, there are also many spelling of this surname. Some census returns have recorded the name as Goolden, Goulden and Goulding so it has not been easy to gather correct information.In Cologne Southern Cemetery, Germany is the Commonwealth War Grave of 21412 Private Joseph Golden serving with 18th Battalion Durham Light Infantry who died 24 December 1918 aged 31 years.
Joseph was born to his parents James and his wife, Mary Jane at Birtley in 1887. In 1891 /1901 James (father) was working as a coal miner hewer. Joseph’s siblings were M. Lizzy, J. William, Ellen and M. Jane.
He married his sweetheart, Louisa, in 1903 and the couple went on to have 3 sons James, William and Leslie. The 1911 census shows him as working as a coal miner hewer and living with his family at 16 Lindsley Road, Sheriff Hill Gateshead.
Joseph enlisted into the army and after serving with 2nd and 14th Battalions his last posting was to the 18th Pals Battalion, Durham Light Infantry.
It is uncertain how Joseph died but his demise happened after the Armistice ie 24 December 1918 at Homburg. He is buried at Cologne Southern Cemetery in Germany.
His wife, Louisa, later added the following sentiment to his grave :- “In memory of one who did his duty”
Medals:- British War Medal, Victory Medal and 1914-15 Star.
Joseph Golden is remembered at Gateshead on G39.004 and at Gateshead Fell on G39.064
He is also remembered in The DLI Book of Remembrance page 339