Francis George Swann Walters

Francis George Swann Walters (Frank) was born in 1896, he was baptised on 20th August 1896 at St Mary's church, Ilkeston he was the only child of Joseph Middleton Walters, an elementary school headmaster, and Harriett Walters née Swann of 33 Drummond Road Ilkeston Derbyshire. Joseph Middleton Walters was born in 1867 at Smalley, Derbyshire, Harriett Swann was born in 1866 at Nottingham, they were married on 25th July 1895 at Nottingham. In the 1911 census the family were living at 33 Drummond Street, Ilkeston, Joseph 44 yrs is an head schoolmaster, he is living with his wife Harriett 45 yrs and their son Francis George Swann 14 yrs a scholar.

He worked at Boots No. 11 Branch.

Rifleman Francis George Swann Walters enlisted at Nottingham, he served in France from 3 August 1915. Killed in action on 13th March 1916 he is buried in Cabaret-Rouge British Cemetery, Souchez (grave ref. XVll.N.6). He qualified for the 1915 Star, British War Medal and Victory Medal.

Boots Memorial gives his name as F Gibson Walters, Lance-Corporal KRR. Boots 'Comrades in Khaki', April/May 1916, 'Dead on the Field of Honour' (photograph): 'Rifleman FG Walters. The laurel wreath of faithful service has been achieved by Rifleman FG Walters of the 7th King's Royal Rifles, who fell in action during March last. Full details of the sad event are not yet known. FG Walters, who prior to the war was serving his apprenticeship at Branch 11 of Boots, had won the highest regard among his colleagues. He was of cheerful disposition and fine character and the deepest sympathy is felt for his sorrowing parents.' (Nottinghamshire Archives, ref. RB.38) In memoriam published 13th March 1917 in the Nottingham Evening Post :- “WALTERS. – In proud and loving memory of Frank (7th K.R.R.), the dearly beloved only son of Joseph M. and Harriett Walters, killed in action March 13th, 1916.” Above in memoriam is courtesy of Jim Grundy and his facebook pages Small Town Great War Hucknall 1914-1918