Illustrated Chronicle 21/02/1916
Medal Index Card
James William was born in South Shields in October, 1872, to the late James William Hood, by his wife Elizabeth. They resided at 77 Adelaide Street, South Shields, Durham.
James was educated at the St Stephens School in South Shields. He then enlisted into the 2nd Battalion King's Own Scottish Borderers. James was involved in the Siege of Chitral (1895) and with the Tirah Expedition against the Afridis (1897). Being awarded the Indian Medal. His service number was 2931, then was transferred to the 1st Battalion, and was then sent to South Africa, and was in action at Puarduberg, Johannesburg and Cape Colony. Being awarded the Queen's South Africa Medal and 3 clasps. He then was discharged.
James married at North Shields on the 3rd April 1897, at Christ Church, Rebecca (16 1/2 Camden Street, North Shields), daughter of George Whiting. They had 5 children, but one of the children had died. William, born 10th November 1902, Stephen, born 15th September 1909, Elizabeth Ann, born 26th July 1900 and Rebecca born 6th October 1906. By 1911, the family were residing at 21 Camden Lane, North Shields. James was a General Labourer.
He re-enlisted on the 12th August 1914, at North Shields, but was turned down due to 'being not becoming an effective soldier', then went to South Shields, enlisted on the 21st September and was given a service number of 8025. Posted to the 8th Battalion, Special Reserve, then transferred to the 3rd Battalion. Age 41 years. His trade then was a Miner, and had worked at the Backworth Colliery.
On the 21st January 1915, James had a Medical Examination at Boldon and was declared fit for overseas service.
James was sent to the Dardanelles on the 25th October 1915, sailing from Devonport to Mudros arriving there on the 9th November 1915. Was in the 1st Battalion Royal Scots when he was killed on the 24th December 1915.
Rebecca received his personal effects which consisted of a Pocket Case, Letter, Torn photo and a pouch.
His widow Rebecca was granted a pension of 23 s a week from the 31st July 1916. This was being administered by the Borough of Tynemouth Committee which was then based at 22 Howard Street, North Shields. She remarried a James Greener on the 18th March 1917 at South Shields. She resided in 1923 at 7 Moon Street, South Shields, Durham.
De Ruvigny Roll of Honour
Note the CWGC entry shows the 15th Battalion.
James William Hood is remembered at Tynemouth in T36.14 page 14, and at North Shields on N34.03