DANIEL SMITH 1887–1919

Born 1887, High Wycombe, Bucks.

Married 20th November 1915 to Eliza Chamberlain, Wesleyan chapel, Radcliffe on Trent. Occupation on marriage chauffeur

Daughters: Vera Annie born 1916 and Alma born 18 September 1919, after he had died. Both children baptised at Wesleyan Chapel, Radcliffe on Trent.

Died February 28th, 1919, aged 32

Buried Radcliffe on Trent Cemetery. Epitaph: ‘Thy Way Not Mine O Lord’

Commemorated on Radcliffe on Trent War Memorial

1891 Census

Age two living in Wycombe, Bucks with father William, an agricultural labourer, mother Sarah, brothers George 18, Thomas 14, Harry 12, William 10, Charles 1 and sisters Elizabeth 6, Jane 4 and Ada 1 month.

1901 Census

Age thirteen living with parents, brothers George, Harry, William, Charles and sisters Elizabeth, Jane and Ada at Green Street, Hughenden, Buckinghamshire. Father was a farm worker.

1911 Census

Age 24 a domestic groom boarding with the Holmes family in West End Villas, Radcliffe on Trent.  The other boarder in the household was William Fryer, a general labourer.

Military Service

Rank: Private

Service Number: M2/134234 (‘M’ indicates he served in Motor Transport)

Military Unit: Royal Army Service Corps

Theatre of War: Unknown, served overseas

Daniel Smith died on February 28th 1919 in Radcliffe on Trent. His death was caused by influenza and double pneumonia. It was certified by Dr Allaway and registered the same day. His sister-in-law Annie Vickerstaff was present at the death. He is buried in Radcliffe cemetery. Epitaph: ‘Thy Way Not Mine O Lord’. His age on his death certificate is given as thirty two.

Annie Vickerstaff was his wife’s sister and married to William Bates Vickerstaff

A £6 grant was made to Eliza his widow but there is no record of pension payments.

Article: The influenza pandemic and its impact on Radcliffe on Trent

Medals Awarded: British War and Victory. Note on Medal Rolls Index Cards requesting authorities to dispose of the medals.

Other information

Daniel Smith was a staunch Methodist. The family lived at West End Villas, Radcliffe on Trent. His widow Eliza and their 2 daughters were still living at West End Villas in 1939. Vera married William Thornhill and Alma married Arthur Standbridge.

Reasons for inclusion on Radcliffe on Trent Roll of Honour

Lived, died and buried in Radcliffe on Trent.

Radcliffe on Trent Cemetery