Peter Wise and Brenda McMahon have submitted the following:-
Harold was the youngest son of Thomas and Annie Elizabeth (nee Sayer) born at Barnard Castle on July 18th 1897 and was baptised a few weeks later on August 4th 1897. The couple went on to have 9 children but 3 died. Both parents predeceased their son. Father Thomas died in 1910 whilst his mother Annie died August 2nd 1915.In 1901 father, Thomas, has work as a joiner/carpenter/builder on his own account. The family living at their home at 46 Newgate included wife Annie, Martha, Annie, Wilfred and Harold. There was also a boarder named Elizabeth Cave, a school mistress. Two brothers had died namely Thomas in 1898 age 17 then Robert in 1897 age 10.
By 1911 his father had died on January 24th 1910 at the age of 60 years. His mother was the head of the household at their current address 20 East Parade, Harrogate which was a nine roomed accommodation. She is listed as being an apartment house keeper. His sister Annie has now married and is now Mrs Watson. During the last 2 months she had given birth to a new son, George Ernest. Also living at home were also Martha and of course, Harold.
Harold appears to have worked for the Post Office at some time.
Harold enlisted at his birthplace of Barnard Castle. He served with City of London Regiment, Royal Fusiliers. He died of wounds on July 30th 1916. From his date of death it is apparent that he is one of the fallen of the Somme.
His brother Wilfred Matthew also served in the Great War with the Royal Engineers however Wilfred survived the war.
His will amounted to £135.12.2d which was left to his brother, George William.
See David Charlesworth’s Roll of Honour on B135.01 which carries a photo.
Harold Robert Lumley is also remembered in Barnard Castle on B135.02, B135.23 where his rank is given as Sergeant and B135.25 at Darlington on D40.017 and at Shildon on S122.02 and S122.02
