William Kirby and Brenda McMahon have submitted the following:-
Thomas was born at Seaham Harbour in 1875.
He married Barbara Douglas Turnes at Easington in 1897. There followed 5 children who all survived childhood although more have arrived at a later date.
The 1911 census shows Thomas working as a general labourer at the glass bottle work whilst his wife looks after the home. Their children are named Thomas William, Mary Ann, William, George, David, Louisa, Elizabeth Ellen. Also living with them is father in law, Benjamin Turns. He is an old age pensioner who also formerly worked general labourer at glass works. This family totals 8 folks living in 2 rooms at 7 Fenwicks Row Seaham Harbour.
When Thomas first enlisted he served with the West Yorkshire Regiment in several battalions - 7th, 8th and 2nd serving with the number 18024. He later was posted to 43rd Battalion, Royal Fusiliers when his number was altered to G/93822.
Thomas was sent to France on July 13th 1915. His service record is not available.
He died of pneumonia on December 5th 1918. He was 42 years of age.
Etaples Military Cemetery is the largest CWGC cemetery in France holding 11,516 graves. It is located near Boulogne on the former site of a large military hospital complex used by the Allies in WW1. The following inscription was added to his headstone :-God took him home it was his will But in our hearts we love him still.
Thomas was awarded 1915 Star, British War Medal and Victory Medal for his services.
Thomas William Wallace is not remembered at Seaham Harbour.