Arthur Edwin Howgate

Arthur was born in 1893 at Retford the son of John Robert a gardener and Alice Howgate nee Whittam, he had 7 siblings one of which his younger brother Alfred Thomas was also killed in the Great War both within a few days of each other in April 1917. In the 1911 census we find Arthur living with his family at 21 Moorgate, Retford he is 17 years of age and a shop assistant in a boot and shoe shop.He married Edith Eliza Dawick in September 1916 and they lived at Meech House, Ollerton Road, Retford, however by the time of his death she was living at 22, Northfield Way, Retford,

Arthur was severely wounded above the elbow of his right arm in action on the 5th April but was able, using his left hand, to write home on the 14th to his wife. He succumbed to his wounds and exhaustion on the 15th. His wife received notification of his death in the same post as she received his last letter. He had, prior to joining up, been employed by Mr Iremonger, boot and shoe maker. He was known locally as a good vocalist winning prizes with a quartet at the North Notts Music Festival. Arthur’s wife Edith had 2 brothers serving overseas and has also lost a brother. In July 1917 Edith acknowledged receipt of his few possessions being returned to her :- letters, photos & cards, 1 pipe, 1 medal, 3 metal rings, 2 pocket wallets, 1 match box case, 1 purse, 1 tobacco pouch. He is buried in St Sever Cemetery extension, Rouen, France

Information has been provided courtesy of Alan Laurie