HARRY HALL'S WORLD WAR ONE DIARY AND LETTERS TO VERA HALL
formerly http://freepages.genealogy.rootsweb.com/~kitwithers/hall/harry_to_vera.txt 29.4.2009
Harry in army gear (I guess before he left NZ) holding what looks like a riding crop.
A card from Camp in Cairo to one of his sisters. But which one? Who sent me this?
The inside page of his diary:
The rear page stamped 14 OCT.1915 AUCKLAND INFANTRY 8th Reinforcements
A COMPANY, D.R. KIRKER Capt., NZGA Officer Commanding A Company, 8th. :
A sketch of Harry smiling lying on corrugated iron on mud in trench; above are 5 rows marked sb (sandbag), b (brick), sandbag, brick, sandbag.
Caption: Side elevation of our dugout. HARCOURT, ARMITAGE & self - safe from
earth and flying fragments only:
Harry named his trench S.78 after his street: Beaconsfield St.
Here is Harry's portrait, Auckland Weekly News 1917:
Lieutenant Harry F HALL of Devonport, Killed in action.
Obtained from Auckland War Memorial Museum's War Memorial online cenotaph.
The addresses of relatives in England written by his mother Laura for Harry when he left for WW1 - "Your uncle John HALL [ID 5 in the HALL tree] who is in France ... your aunt Sarah Mrs & cousin Jack B? LONGWORTH [ID 41],
PS Send me your friends' full name & I will write & tell them." ;
an obituary card for him with a photo of him in army gear, (on the back is a
crest with "3rd Auck(land) Regiment NZ Infantry Battalion, Countess of
Ranfurly's own); and a copy of reg.jpg, the photo of Reg [36] in army gear taken in 1917.
.............................
THE WORLD WAR 1 DIARY OF SECOND LIEUTENANT HARRY FREDERICK HALL
9.10.1915-19.12.1916
(b 29.5.1888 Auckland, killed in action 9.6.1917 Messines, Belgium)
of A Company, 8th Reinforcements, & later of No. 2 Platoon, 3rd Company,
1st & 2nd Battalions, Auckland Infantry Regiment, NZ Expeditionary Force
AND LETTERS 13.9.1915-16.5.1917 TO HIS SISTER VERA RUSSELL
typed and edited by KIT WITHERS
101 Allington Rd, Wellington 6012, New Zealand. Tel +64 223685905 kit.withers@gmail.com
Vera [ID 37 in HALL tree] aged 2 or 3 with Harry [ID 35 in HALL tree].
After Vera's death in 1970, the diary & letters to her passed to Vera's
daughter Laurette WITHERS; on Laurette's death in 2010 they passed to her
grandson Manu WITHERS stroudeltd@gmail.com
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Harry has ID 36, and his father Henry ID 3 in their family tree,
HALL of Bristol, Denton & Stockport (c1814-1916) & New Zealand (1879-present), at
https://kitwithers.substack.com/p/hall-of-bristol-denton-and-stockport
Henry HALL's 1879 diary on the barque LEBU from England to Auckland
hall/TheDiaryofthebarque.doc typed by Charmaine HALL
is now at
https://open.substack.com/pub/kitwithers/p/henry-halls-1879-diary-on-the-barque
Appendix 1: ships herein,
Appendix 2: places herein,
Appendix 3: names & surnames herein.
At the back is the HALL family tree, available at
formerly at http://freepages.genealogy.rootsweb.com/~kitwithers/hall/hall.html
Its links provide further photos of Harry and Vera HALL and their family.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Harry Frederick HALL was born in Auckland in 1888, the son of
Henry HALL and Laura nee RATHBONE. His parents married in 1877 in Sheffield,
England and migrated to Auckland, New Zealand the next year. Their eight
children, whose births were spread over the next 20 years, were:
Laura (b 1878/9) who married Jim ASKEW,
Sylvia (b 1880) who married James FARRAR,
Florence "Flo" (b 1882) who married George BRAMBLEY,
Evelyn "Eve" (b 1883) who married Ernest TRAYES,
Reginald "Reg" (b 1896) who married Meryl MCLEOD,
Harry "Rix" (b 1888) whose diary and letters to Vera are presented here,
Vera "Bar" (b 1897) who married Rex RUSSELL, and
Leslie (b 1898) who married Mauva and moved to Melbourne.
This diary and letters to his sister Vera tell the story of his training in
Trentham and Tauherenikau near Wellington, his troop ship's journey via Hobart,
Albany and Aden to Suez, the journey to Armentieres - renowned for the the
war-time song "Mademoiselle from Armentieres, Parlez vous" - in northern
France, the horror of the trenches, officer training in England and visiting
his relatives there. The contrast between the trench life and the theatre life
of London is like night and day. He rose through the ranks from a private to
an NCO to a Lieutenant. Returning to France, he was killed in Messines, Belgium
on 9.6.1917. His mother died the following year in the great flu epidemic.
A face of the HALL plinth at Purewa Cemetery, Auckland is dedicated to
him. I have a button from his greatcoat. An obituary reads "ROLL OF HONOUR
... He died serving his country for the cause of humanity." Another obituary
notes "He enlisted as a private, promoted corporal before leaving NZ with
an early reinforcement. After service in Egypt & France he was recommended
for his command being sent to an officers' training camp in London to
continue his studies. 2nd Lieutenant HF HALL was educated at Grafton School
& at the Training College. He was a keen yachtsman & all round sportsman.
Previous to his enlistment he was assistant master of Epsom school."
For more information on his family see the HALL family tree at
http://freepages.genealogy.rootsweb.com/~kitwithers/hall/hall.html
where he appears as 15 (or before 21.1.05 as 46).
Harry named his trench after his street in Devonport: Beaconsfield.
Kay TRAYES (wife of 4222 on the HALL family tree) provided the following from
the Commonwealth War Graves Commission:
In memory of 2nd Lieutenant Harry Frederick HALL, 12/3343, 2nd Battalion,
Auckland Regt, NZEF who died aged 31 on Saturday 9.6.1917 ... son of Henry
and LE HALL of 71 Park Rd, Auckland. Native of Remuera, Auckland. Assistant
master, Epsom School. Remembered with honour, Messines Ridge (NZ) Memorial
to the Missing, Mesen, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium ... 9.5km S of Ieper town
centre on the Niuwkerekestraat, a road from the Rijselseweg, N365 which
connects Iaper to Wijtschate, Mesen and on to Armentieres. ... The NZ
Division spent the winter of 1916-17 on the Lys, within sight of Messines ...
Kay notes that his name is on the Devonport Cenotaph twice: once facing the
statue of the soldier looking out to the harbour, and also on LHS around the
corner with about 9 other names.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I have added some paragraph breaks and captitalized names. Other remarks by me
are inside square brackets [-], including references to PHOTOS, labelled [P1],
[P2], etc. These photos are nearly all of material Harry enclosed with his
letters to Vera.
I am told that Turnbull Library holds over 100 WW1 diaries, but only a few of
these have been typed and none are available on the web. Let us hope that some
day these too may be typed and so made accessible for their families and
students of history.
Each page of Harry’s diary measures 15cm by 8.6cm with a brown cover. Lines are 8mm apart and there are 2 or 3 lines of handwriting between blue lines!
Handwriting is in grey or purple pencil or black ink.
Note the 2 circular marks 7 cm apart on the rear cover, presumably from the
pressure of 2 buttons of his jacket.
=======================================================================
[P1] photo of 5 men and 2 women (the HALL boys & mother & Vera ??) in NZ:
Harry is on the right, and presumably his mother in front. The others may be
from L to R: a brother-in-law, Leslie, ?, Vera?, ?.
[P2]
undated: MESSAGES TO THE NEW ZEALAND TROOPS
- speeches by Field-Marshal ROBERTS, Earl KITCHENER and
J ALLEN, Minister of Defence
=======================================================================
[P3]
Photo of his platoon of 26. On back is written:
Taken September 5th 1915 at Trentham. Sorry I have no Infantry buttons
and Badges to make myself more decent. Rix.
=======================================================================
(Envelope with penny red stamped 13.9.15, labelled
NZ Expeditionary Force, Trentham Military Camp.)
Hut 77 No 2 Platoon, A Coy, 8th Reinforcements, Trentham
11.9.15
My dear Vera
Thanks very much for your interesting and livening letters Kid - they
were very decent. There is not much news from the ordinary here. The
weather has been bad today and of course we have been confined to our
huts most of the day.We had a half holiday because we could do no
drill outside. This morning I had to undergo an examination. I was
called to the Captain's office or rather common room at ten this
morning. When I got there I nearly dropped dead. There was a squad of
men line up and I was told to put them through squad drill. Three
officers were present at this Exam and 20 men were present also to see
if I was nervous. I managed the drill alright I think. Then the first
lieutenant put me through a verbal exam on military matters. I think I
did the questions alright too. Of course I have been studying things a
bit and have been making inquiries too. If I have passed I will
secure stripes. If I haven't, well I naturally wont. I only hope I
have. Don't say anything in case I have not passed [underlined]. The
exam was competitive & required some thought. I shall know in a couple
of days the results. I received the sleeping cap from home
today. Thanks very much. Draughts fly all about our hut and so it will
come in handy. Tonight we were playing cards. The swearing was getting
hot and so I suggested to the boys that every swear should cost 6d
which should go towards purchasing supper for our mess. The result was
3/- which will shortly be spent on hot pies & coffee. It cost me
nothing for I kept my wits & fortunately for my pocket did not swear.
Today we received our full welt gear, which comprises cartridge
pouches, waterbottle, haversack, trenching tool, coat carrier, bayonet
frog, belt, tucker tin and braces to bear these weights. They are all
made of khaki canvas coverings so as not to be too conspicuous in the
firing line. Our total equipment weighs over 60 pounds. We are now on
rifle work and company drill. Things are coming to hard graft down
here now. We now sometimes have nightwork - marching over all sorts of
ground which is not easy work. If you could only see me now you would
probably not know me. I am dressed in denhims with big hob-nail
boots. I have a nice little mo, but of course am going to cut it off
before I come to Auckland. Ask FLO if she go my p.c. I had a word from
EVE the other day - also word from the boys. CARL and RAY have written
to me too. We now have a piano in our hut & at evenings when we are
disengaged we enjoy ourselves in good style. Last Thursday night we
removed some of the bunks and fixed up a sort of a stage. We wrote out
a programme & carried it out decently. We also had a bit of a buck
dance. But the "lights out" bugle goes at 10pm & so we have to cut
things short. I saw FRANK SIMPSON, ARMITAGE and ROY FORDHAM today. The
latter is going away in a few weeks with the 7th. The former two are
here as noncoms for the 9th. Tomorrow LUNN, MCKENZIE & I have applied
for leave - from 3pm to 11pm. We have been invited to Mrs AINSLIE's
place for tea. She is G MCKENZIE's aunt. But whether we can get out is
a question not yet answered. We have all been instructed to have
close hair clips before Monday. There is one chap here - a Cockney
about 45 yrs old - who keeps us going with yarns and comic songs. How
is old UTTING And how are you Bar. I have been very selfdescriptive
so far in this scribble. Write and let us know how things are
floating. Tell all my pals to write. Thank Dad for the Herald which
was a luxury. Goodday & Good Wishes old Kid. Best luck to all.
From your affec. pal, Rix x
=======================================================================
THE DIARY
This measures 15cm by 8.6cm with a brown cover. Lines are 8mm apart
and there are 2 or 3 lines of handwriting between blue lines!
Handwriting is in grey or purple pencil or black ink.
To view the cover, the first and last pages, and a sketch in the diary, see
http://freepages.genealogy.rootsweb.com/~kitwithers/2123/hall/harrycover.jpg 30kb
http://freepages.genealogy.rootsweb.com/~kitwithers/2123/hall/harryp1.jpg 10kb
http://freepages.genealogy.rootsweb.com/~kitwithers/2123/hall/harryp-1.jpg 20kb
http://freepages.genealogy.rootsweb.com/~kitwithers/2123/hall/harrysketch2.jpg 7kb
THE COVER: To Harry from Vera 14/10/15 "Good Luck" Please return to:
Miss Vera HALL, "Lebu", Dominion Road, Devonport, Auckland, New Zealand
(LEBU was the ship their parents came to NZ on from England in 1878.)
The rear cover has 2 circular marks 7 cm apart, presumably from the
pressure of 2 buttons of his jacket.
Page 1: Received this book 9 Oct 1915, Harry Fred. HALL,
No 2 Platoon, A Coy, NZ Reinforcements. Added later: 12/3343 NZEF
Page 2: diary Monday Oct 11th 1915.
In Tauherenikau again after Final Leave.
I am Orderly Sergeant for A Coy. Weather very warm. All very tired after
19 hour train trip from Auckland
Thursday 14 Oct 1915
Fine weather. Paid yesterday P3. 10/- Word from Bar yesterday. Wrote to Mum
today. 2 prisoners in Qr Gd. 9ths in camp on 12th. 7ths left on 12th.
14 Oct 1915
Took 2 prisoners up to Camp Commandant for trial and I acted as witness.
Oct 26th 1915
Wet afternoon. Attack 2nd & 3rd phases. Payday. Sent 24/Z4 home yesterday.
Went to Greytown last night - at dance. Marching to Trentham Thursday.
(PTO now)
=======================================================================
In envelope with 3 green 1/2d stamps addressed to
Miss Vera HALL, c/o UTTING & Coy, Ferry Buildings, Auckland:
NZ Expeditionary Force, A Company, 8th Reinforcements,
Tauherenikau Military Camp
Oct 26th 1915
My dearest Vera
Your usual brilliant epistle to hand the other day. I am sorry to have
kept you waiting so long for this letter, but I have been very busy
and we have had several night operations. So I am sure you will excuse
my defaults. Well Bar old Kid, It has been very wet and absolutely
Hell hot today. We have been out doing attack work today and had to
wear our greatcoats and full equipment and talk about sweat. It simply
rolled off us. When we got back for tea this evening everything was
either damp or properly wet. But never mind, it does not affect us now
we are well broken in.
Last night we three shoreboys got leave and went to Greytown. We
motored both ways and had a ripping charge/change. We dined at the pub
and afterwards had ham and eggs for supper with a small bowl of
English ale. During the evening we went to a dance. We were in full
dress so you can just guess how hot it was. I only had 6 dances & did
not wait for the supper as we had to be back at camp at midnight. The
road to Greytown is dead straight and level and is in very smooth
condition. Our motor should have held six but we had fifteen
aboard. The fare was 2/- per head and so the driver made 20/- each way
out of us.
Greytown is like Featherston and all these places - dead slow. It
consists of half a dozen pubs and the general run of shops. But
however slow it is it is a pleasure to get away from the harsh
commands and have some fun. Tomorrow afternoon we pack up and on
Thursday morning we start on our march to Trentham. We are to be on
the road three days. I hope it won't be raining because sleeping on
the roadside under trees won't be too sweet in the wet.
How are the boys, Bar? And Mum & Dad. Give them all my best love. Shake
LES & REG up and tell them I have only had a p.s. from LES so far. Did
Mum receive the 24/Z4 I sent up. I also sent a parcel up. Send word
whether they have arrived or not Bar. I say would you like my A8 badge
on a brooch pin? If you would I shall get it done. Ask Mum if she would
like one of them too. If she does I shall try and buy another one. If
Mum wants one and I can't buy it, I shall have to give her the one I
intended giving to you and you must be content with a button
brooch. Write & let us know Bar? I was pleased to hear you had had a
good spree at EVE's place. I have received sweets from LAURA and
CONNIE. Have you had more photos printed? Get more done and give them
to those who want them, will you? Get the enlargement for Mum too.
The other chaps are all playing cards as it is too wet to be
outside. The snow has all gone from the Rimutaka Mountains now and the
river is well loaded with the snow and rain waters. I was going to
ring you up on the phone this afternon but when I found it would cost
me thre bob for three minutes I cut it out like a sport. This
afternoon we all were paid again. I am sending home more money to be
put away or else used if anyone wants it.
Yesterday we were all four miles from camp along the road
drilling. It came on to rain and as we had no overcoasts with us we
all got wet to the skins. Our clothes are all out of the trees in the
rain and God knows when we shall get them dry. I am thankful I have
several changes to wear.
The ninth came to Tauherenikau on Saturday last and they are living in
a new sort of tent. They are not bell-shaped like ours but are like
ordinary tents. We have all received our regimental numbers. Mine is
12/3343. In future we are not known by our name at headquarters but by
these numbers. Sounds like prison doesn't it. What do you think of
this scrawl. I am lying down doing it and so you must not roar if it
is crook to read. I say, you are crook, telling me about going to
COOKES for icecream. You more than made my mouth water the day I
received your letter. Did I tell you about one of our tents being
burnt down. It happened about one in the morning. One poor bloke (MICK
ENGLISH) from the Shore had some of his things burnt. Well dear old
Bar, You must write now. Shake all the tents & chapies up and make
them do it too. Give my best love to Mum & Dad & Boys & all.
With best love, hugs and all sorts of brotherly things,
I remain, Your most affec. pal, Harry X
=======================================================================
[P4]
The Camp Courier Vol 1, No 1 Trentham, New Zealand, Saturday October 30th 1915
[a 4 page newspaper with names and nick-names of many soldiers]
=======================================================================
DIARY p3
October 30th (Saturday)
Just going to Wellington. Finished march from Tauherenikau at lunch today.
=======================================================================
Envelope with grey 1 1/2d stamp to
Miss V B HALL, c/o UTTING, Ferry Buildings, Auckland
Stationary labelled
NZ Expeditionary Force, A Company, 8th Reinforcements, Trentham Military Camp.
Nov 1st 1915 (sketch of someone bending over).
My dearest Bar,
Your decent letter to hand. I must first ask your pardon for not
writing sooner. I suppose you have heard about our route march from
Tauherenikau. It took three days and we had a good time. We had two
dam cold nights in the titree and were called out at at 2am Saturday
morning to indulge in a sham fight. Yesterday I spent on the rang
shooting and put up a good scare. Today I spent in the butts marking
or rather helping to mark another Company's shooting. Each company has
its turn at marking. In the butts, which are like trenches, we have to
look up at the cardboard targets and then signal with flags on the end
of long poles the result of the firing. You see, if we bobbed up our
heads we would probably get shot. hence the long signalling poles. I
sat down and read most of the time as I was in charge of a dozen men
who were doing the actual marking. When the bullets whiz overhead they
sound like violin strings which have been hit. What do you think of
the local paper? A bit dry I guess. We are leaving in 13 days from
yesterday, ie on Nov 13th. This week we are to receive our final
inspection and second suit of clothes. We are now in Hut 123. Vera, I
wrote a letter to Uncle per favour of Mum's kindness in addressing
it. I omitted to put on it my proper address. Ask Mum to let him know
in case he wishes to repond.
L/Corp Harry Fred HALL,
12/3343 No 2 Platoon, A Company, 8th Reinforcements, Trentham MC.
Well old dear Kid, news is slack and I am dam lazy and tired. I am
sending some photos soon, so expect them. How are the extra photos of
me you ordered? We were called up at 5.20am this morning and went on
to the range at 7am and stopped there until 5pm tonight. Well Bar,
write long letters now and liven things up. Give my best of love to
all. Accept best love & hugs & kisses. I will write something decent
next time I correspond.
I remain
Your old pal & brother
Harry xx
=======================================================================
Envelope stamped 5 Nov 1915 with penny red and green halfpenny stamp
overprinted WAR STAMP
Miss Vera B HALL, c/o UTTING, Shipping Agent, Ferry Buildings, Auckland
Stationary labelled
NZ Expeditionary Force, A Company, 8th Reinforcements, Trentham Military Camp.
Nov. 4th 1915
My dearest Bar,
Your stacks of news arrived today. For four days I had not received a
single word from anyone excepting a letter from dear old Mum which
also contained letters from the two boys. By Jove things did hum when
I got your letter today. I went careering around the hut and causing a
fearful disturbance of the peace until I was quietened with a
multitude of phrases qualified by numerous long adjectives from the
boys. Things as far as getting and giving news down here have been
absolutely flat for days - weeks so it seems. All this week our
company have been shooting "eyes out" getting as much practice as
possible. I did fairly well and was well up in the average although,
of course, I did not compare with the cracks. Today was very wet and
dull and consequently our scores suffered. I shall send my scoring
book home and then you will be able to judge for yourself my
results. I secured what is called a first class shot in the shooting records.
Yes, I shall send those things to HIX TRAYES [EVE's husband Ernest?] and
then he can make them into what Mum and you need and you can pay for them
out of my account which Mum has authority to draw upon. I have just returned
from a hot and a cold shower. We have here now a proper up-to-date
arrangement for so doing and it is very decent under same. One is under
the warm water enjoying the temperature when suddenly the water is
changed to cold. The change is very sudden but very good. I am sending
you (for Mum this time) a PHOTO OF OUR COMPANY taken while resting in
Upper Hutt during our route march. EDDY BUDD is in Auckland I knew a
week ago. I was acting orderly sergeant that week and so had the
handling of his medical papers to and from the doctor. You must say
nothing about his complaint, but you can guess what it is. But not a
word, Bar, in true promise to me. I don't think, as he says, that
there is much chance of losing my stripe. Of course, we have been
given to understand, that when reaching the front, all noncommissioned
officeres are disrated. This is only natural as the leading of the men
is left to men who have had experience and who are much older than we
are. We may not, though, lose them if they are short of leaders. I
don't care much Bar if I do lose them when I reach the front. If I am
not suitable for them, then, in all fairness, let more efficient take
them. I am not sorry a gulf has been formed in your and Chub's
friendship. I never cared much for her owing to many things including
her disposition. But keep my sentiments to yourself, Bar. I think we
get our seakits and second lot of equipment tomorrow morning. We go on
the 15th. Yes I wish you could come to Wellington and Mum too. If you
two like, come down & take costs out of my banking account, if there
is enough. It would be very decent. We three boys are probably going
to Wellinton tomorrow night until 11pm What for I don't know as it is
a crook place. We start on our active pay on Monday. That is to say we
get 2/- a day and the remainder is remitted to our next of kin. Tell
Mum to expect government vouchers for same. I shall find out how she
is to proceed in order to draw the money. Please give Mum the
enclosed. It is a PHOTO but I could only get one. Others of our
company will be sent next week for you. How is EVE? Tell those others
to write and shake up all I know. Give that dort? a photo if she wants
one. I forget what RONA SHARPLES is like. Was she the fair one - a
chemist or some such lady? Did you get the Trentham Raj I sent? Well
Bar, dear old Kid, write again - now, and accept my very best
brotherly affection. Give it also to the Boys. Give Mum my very best
possible love. Remember me to Dad and ask him to write if he can find a
few moments for me. I am writing soon to all. In anticipation of long
letters from all, I must now "Right Turn" and "Dismiss"
and still be,
Your affec. Pal,
Rix the 'umble soldier.
XXXX
-Contains:
[P5] photo of company taken while resting in Upper Hutt during our
route march; marked on back "highest up on left" referring to himself marked x
[P6] Drawings on NZEF Tauherenikau stationary:
1 Poor old Rix doing it hard after 10 miles route march
2 Our Sergeant (JC CRAIG of Auckland reputation)
3 Rix bashed? his hair cut according to military law.
4 charging
5 Rain inside our tent tonight - wet as hell
=======================================================================
[P7]
undated postcard of HMNZ T(Troopship) No 35 - Best Love from Harry
=======================================================================
Envelope stamped NZ Military Post Office, 14 Nov 1915, Troopship No 35.
On Active Service
Miss Vera B HALL, c/o UTTING, Shipping Agent, Ferry Buildings, Auckland,
New Zealand
12/3343 No 2 Platoon, A Coy, 8th Reinf. NZEF, c/o GPO Wellington.
Sunday Nov 13th. 15. On board HMTS WILLOCHRA.
My dearest Bar,
Received your letter on board last night. We left Wellington at about
5pm yesterday and had a calm trip to Lyttleton. We are on board the
WILLOCHRA which is a very decent ship. I managed to secure a bunk in a
cabin which opens out on deck. Very handy I should say when the rough
weather comes, that is if I prove a crook sailor. Today I am ship's
orderly corporal and have to attend to various duties such as helping
to supervise the mess and so on. Most of the troops have gone by train
on to C. Church to attend a parade there. I am sorry I missed
same. Orderly corporal always seems to be my lot when anything good is on.
I have not yet received yours and ERNIE's [EVE's husband?] parcels, but perhaps
they are aboard somewhere. During my last week in Wellington I had a real good
time. PERCY BRAMBLEY [brother-in-law of 43 FLO] (10th NCO) introduced me to
some people to whom he was better introduced. One friend in particular proved
a very nice companion during my short time there and I had more than a good
time. I want you to write to her Vera. She is
Miss ELLA BLOMFIELD, Telegraph Bureau, Wellington.
She and her friends gave me several packages and came down to the
wharf when our vessel cast off. They gave me a real good time and send
off, and as you see a lonely parting was not my lot as it was in the
case of many other chaps. I opened their parcels today and they were
filled with chocolates, lollies and a variety of other luxuries. Well
Bar, introduce yourself by mail, and I am certain you will like
them. I showed them your photo and they reckoned you were a lovely
girl. Eh Wot!
Tonight we leave for ALBANY and I shall write you from there. I don't
expect we shall receive any mail again after today until we reach our
base, wherever that is to be. But nevertheless write, Bar, and then
when the letters do come I shall have a good stock of news to
read. Tell all the pals to write. Well I shall have to pass on now and
do some work. Our ship is like a cramped town and it takes some
considerable time to discover where places are. We have a dentist, a
hospital, a canteen, and many more conveniences. LYTTLETON is a pretty
little place, but very hilly. Tell REX & LES I am doing alright and
that I expect letters from them soon after I arrive at Egypt or ? It
is great travelling on a fairly large steamer when one is accustomed
to small boats. The sensation is altogether different. Well Bar give
my very best love to all and accept same for yourself.
I remain,
Your affec. pal & brother
Rix xxxx
=======================================================================
DIARY p2
Nov. 15th 1915
Just left Foveaux St[rait] Co 7/.. Fairly rough. GILL & DAVIES cabin mates.
Now a corporal. PTO.
Left WELLINGTON on Sat 13th. Good farewell. At Lyttleton Sunday. I was Ships
Ord. Corp. & so could not go. Permanent Dormitory Sergeant for voyage. Band
plays regularly. Received many gifts from Mrs CLAYTON, LE MARQUAUD & Miss
BLOMFIELD. They saw me off. Last bit of NZ seen at 8 oclock on Monday 15th -
viz. BLUFF Lighthouse. TOFUA well behind. We have to slow down to enable her
to catch up. Dr WHEELER on board as Major Doctor. Received parcels from Home
& books from CONNIE LLOYD.
p4 Nov. 17th (Wed.) 1915
Time 2.50pm 4 days out - we must be somewhere SSE of Tasmania now. Blowing a
gale and sea rough. Many down with seasickness. Great dearth of cigarettes
which are prohibited but nevertheless secretly indulged in. Canteen opened
yesterday. Coupon system of selling. TOFUA is making heavy weather of the
seas. We have 1400 aboard. TOFUA has 1200. Wind very cold. Have not been sick
yet - seem to be getting sailorised properly now.
18th:- Great storm and gale blowing. Sea very rough. [Crossed out: TOFUA
stopped today to bury a dead man so it is said.] We made 2 circles today
(Thursday) so as to give the TOFUA a chance to catch up to us. We are only
doing 5-6 knots at times - so rough. Propeller racing in troughs of waves.
Many down with seasickness. TOFUA had her 2 bathrooms broken it is rumoured.
Friday 19th Nov. 1915:
Put into HOBART - a very nice place. Calm & warm. Ferries across waters like
Auckland. Messroom again crowded. Wrote several letters home & friends &
posted on board.
=======================================================================
Envelope stamped NZ Military Post Office, 19 Nov 1915 Troopship No 35,
PASSED BY MILITARY CENSOR, and addressed On Active Service
Miss Vera HALL c/o UTTING, Ferry Buildings, Auckland, New Zealand.
12/3343 No 2 Platoon, A Coy, 8th Reinf. NZEF, c/o GPO Welln.
19/11/15
Dearest Bar
Just a line from on the way. We are at present in a beautiful harbour
well sheltered from the storms we have had for the last week. Since we
left NZ we have experienced nothing else but a succession of
gales. The sea has been frightfully rough and caused much
sickness. Several minor pieces of damage were done to our ships. We
are being treated as well as can be expected, but of course, being
crowded on a transport associating with all sorts & conditions, one
feels the change. But for all this I am having a good time. We do not
know what place is our destination. I shall write from all our ports
of call. Thanks very much for the decent box of goods. They were
apreciated. Give my love to all and to the boys. They will probably be
interested in this if you care to show it to them. Well, love old
dear, Write.
From your affec. pal & Bro.
Rix xxxx
=======================================================================
DIARY p5
Saturday 20th Nov. 1915
Arose early - 5am - went for a route march around HOBART - a grand place.
Leave from 2pm until 7pm, went to Moonah - met Col. SCHOFIELD at some fair
which we accidentally ran across. Had afternoon tea with same. Ran across
Misses CLEARY and YOUNG and were invited to Sunday tea. But I don't think
I can go as I think we are leaving or else pulling out into the stream.
HOBART a beautiful place - climate beautifully warm. Electric cars, light, etc
- lovely houses, streets tarred or else paved - good wharves and 40 feet of
water at low water. Only 4 ft of rise here. We coaled here and took on extra
provisions. Very tired after our march and leave. Ground very shakey after our
rough trip across the Tasman. Going to ALBANY, we believe, at tomorrow early.
Sunday Nov. 21st 1915.
Left HOBART at 5am. A beautiful morning - warm & calm. Crossed DERWENT BAY
and the weather became colder and rough. Wind arose. Snow on mountains on
Tasmania. Now it is 6pm. The wind is a gale from the west and the ship is
pitching and rolling fairly heavily. Not so many ar sick today. I feel tiptop.
They treated us to roast pork for dinner today which is worth mentioning.
Yesterday I omitted to say that I posted several letters on Board ship for
delivery. We are now out of sight of land & must be south of ST VINCENT BIGHT.
=======================================================================
Envelope stamped NZ Military Post Office, 26 Nov 1915 Troopship No 35,
PASSED BY CENSOR, and addressed On Active Service,
Miss Vera HALL c/o UTTING, Ferry Buildings, Auckland, New Zealand.
12/3343 No 2 Platoon, A Coy, 8th Reinf. NZEF, c/o GPO Wellington.
Tuesday Nov. 23rd. 1915.
My Dearest Bar,
Here I am at our four o'clock on Tuesday afternoon, writing to some of the old
sports. I wrote, as I promised, from our first port of call. Ever since leaving
New Zealand we have had a fairly rough time. But now the weather has calmed
considerably and things are quite pleasant. Our correspondences is now censored
and so I shall not be able to tell you a great deal about our vessels and the
places we visit. The place we were at last week afforded us a relief from this
continual rolling motion. We had a route march and after that we had a few
hours leave. You can well imagine the times we spent during that time. Along
with two pals I pushed along the street and boarded a tramcar. We went to some
place and pushed into a concert. Later we had a look about and indulged in the
usual fun on such occasions. We have a fair amount of sport among ourselves
here. Sometimes we give the "500" a good go. There is a canteen aboard and by
a system of tickets we are able to buy common things. Tobacco is cheap and the
1/- tin here costs 6d. We are not permitted to smoke our favourite weeds and we
miss them very much indeed. I still have your wallet and keep a casual diary
every three or four days. Today our Platoon were lined up for drill. We
started skating about four feet at every roll and so the attempt was abandoned
and we were dismissed. It is great watching some, in fact a big some, walking
about on a rough day. Things get very rusty aboard and we find some difficulty
in keeping clean our rifles and bayonets. Have you written to those friends, or
rather that friend, of mine in Wellington yet? If you did not get my previous
letter, let me know, and then I shall know Bar. I have not, of course, had word
from you or the others for some time now, and don't expect to now we are away.
But nevertheless write. I shall write again later.
With best love
I remain
Your old pal
Rix xxxx
=======================================================================
DIARY p6
Saturday Nov. 27th 1915, 7.30pm
Landed in ALBANY yesterday at noon. Some navigating across the shallow
banks of sand - channel into sound well marked with beacons, lighthouses
and land beacons. Shallow at wharves. Railway from Perth. Very poor country.
Some parts sandy like Hokianga. Silver sand abundant. Had a route march to
town which is a couple of miles from wharf. General leave from 5 to 9pm. Went
for a motor car ride with J CRAIG to KING RIVER which is 14 miles out.
Called at Esplanade Hotel on way out - a very nice place. Left tonight at 6pm
for incognita terra. Sea fairly smooth. Saw 2 whalers. Passed whaling station
& saw 5 whalers. There was great excitement when land was first sighted at
9.30 on Friday morning.
Nov. 30th Tuesday 2pm 1915.
Paid 1P 10/- today at rate 1/6 per day - 1/- a day to draw at disembarkation.
3/6 per day for home. We are now just about in the Tropics and are steering
a course NW by W. The weather is now much warmer. Most of us are going about
with bared feet and are wearing only shirt & trousers. The TOFUA still keeps
within sight. We expect 3 weeks of this. The water since we left ALBANY has
been very calm - as calm as a harbour almost. We had a concert last evening -
piano, violins, songs, etc Sports on deck this week. Had Boat drill today.
I have not drawn a place in any boat.
December 2nd Thursday 4pm
Wind dead aft with sea fairly calm. The ship is rolling a little. The weather
is daily getting warmer. Some of us are in shorts - having cut down our denim
trousers. Several cases of measles aboard. Awnings are now covered over all
the decks. We have concerts almost every evening now. Lights have now to be
blocked. We are now well into the INDIAN OCEAN. I think we are going to ADEN.
We are still going NW by W. Two chaps have gone insane aboard. Had washing day
yesterday - 2 buckets of water for four men. TOFUA still abreast. Had a spree
- 3 of us deck today - bought at canteen lemonade, biscuits, chocolates
& tinned peaches. Tobacco 6d a tin.
Saturday Dec 4th 1915 4.30pm
Weather still beautiful - sea dark blue in Tropics. Small flying fish - some
only a couple of inches long - seen often. They can fly, turn, rise and move
their wings just as birds do. They are very quick in so doing. Course NW.
Lime juice for dinner now. Bar runs out tomorrow - change of diet tomorrow.
Weather very uncomfortably warm - shorts, shoes & singlets now. Canvas baths
on deck daily in the mornings now. Sports in progress. Officers on Bridge look
well in their whites and tunics with gold trimmings. Some are sleeping on deck
at nights now.
p8 Monday 6th Dec. 1915 4pm
Sitting on Promenade deck at stern - perched on a coil of rope enjoying
breeze. Will cross EQUATOR on Friday - Neptune dips. There is a great rush for
the baths at all times. Daily swimming canvas baths. Coaling from holds today
on. When teens from soldiers do this at 2/- extra a day. Several of our chaps
are seamen and one of A Coy 6th platoon is 4th officer for the trip. Heavy
showers last night and early a.m. today. We now do nothing daily except a
little physical excercise, rollcalls, rifle etc inspection. Runaround several
boats are about - converted drivers/business? Vaccinated yesterday. Canteen
tickets given out as profits from Trentham Canteen on Saturday. Most of us go
about in trousers only now - and hat. Sun overhead directly now - no twilight
- dark quickly. Sunsets beautiful on sea - fresh water & nasty. Very heavy
tropical showers - 2 waterspouts seen close by - saw .. falling into sea and
making quite a hole and geyser.
Tuesday 7th pm.
Washed this morning - towing a target - still coaling - plenty of measles.
=======================================================================
Envelope stamped NZ Military Post Office, 13 DEC 1915 Troopship No 35,
PASSED BY MILITARY CENSOR, and addressed On Active Service,
Miss Vera HALL c/o UTTING, Ferry Buildings, Auckland, New Zealand.
If astray please send to [as previous line]
Indian Ocean
Wednesday 3.30pm Dec. 8th. 1915.
My dearest Bar,
We are now twelve days out from our port of call. At present our time
is 3.30, but yours must be about 8pm or perhaps later. For twelve days the sea
has been as calm as old Chilty [Chiltenham Beach, Devonport] except for the
usual ocean swell. We are gliding along at a fair pace and I for one, am just
about full up of nothing but water and water. We have not seen much in
the way of excitement for some time now. Last Monday night we saw a
couple of waterspouts during a storm. They were quite near enough to
make us secure a good view of the falling mass of water. There are
thousands of silvery flying fish in this ocean. They are wonderful
fish and are able to glide and flutter along just like
birds. Porpoises we see in thousands at times. they are much smaller
than the ones I have seen in the Hauraki Gulf. The old currant bun is
overhead at noon now and he shines and makes things as hot as an
oven. It is a good job no girls are about as a great number of chaps
myself included, are running and sitting around attired in nothing but
a pair of short strides. Socks, shoes, shirts and coats have [been]
absolutely discarded for the time being. I have resort to the bath
several times a day as this has a tendency to cool me. We, of course,
wash in salt water and it seems to make me stickier than ever. Every
morning the ship's sailors rig up for us canvas tubs about 12 feet
long and 6 feet wide. Water about 3 feet deep is put into these and
hundreds of us quickly turn it into soup by jumping in it and washing
ourselves. At night we (in our lines, on our deck) slap on our rugs
and not under them. Even then I am only one of a great number who
cannot sleep on account of the heat. Our mess room is very very hot
too at meal hours. This is how hot it is on a transport in the
Tropics. We expect to pass the Equator in a couple of days. We do not
know where we are going, but our NW by W course gives us a fair idea
of our next port of call. Every body is complaining of sore bottoms
caused by sitting on the hard decks. There are nearly 1800 of us here,
I barn?, and so you can imagine there is little room, especially when
you think that we are built to accomodate only 300 passengers.
I still keep a casual diary in your notebook and hope to return it to
you filled some day. The other day our Coy. were vaccinated and the
lymphs just beginning to take. Mine is itching like a son of a gun.
Yesterday we had washing day. Imagine me right into a bucket of water
with a heap of very dirty clothes soaked, scrubbed and rinsed in the
same water. Then the clothese are dried by tying them on any available
place with any available string - stolen or otherwise. Then they are
taken in a little cleaner. Well old dear, I don't know when you will
get this, or yet where it will be dispatched from. We have been a long
time out now - nearly a month, and so must be nearing our
destination. Don't forget to write me long decent letters and shake
the fence? up and have a good time for there is a better coming when I
return. A Merry Xmas & Happy New Year to you.
With very best love,
I remain,
Your old pal
Harry xxxx
=======================================================================
DIARY
Monday 13th 1915 10am
Land sighted this morning at sunrise - the CAPE at the North East point of
AFRICA or else IOCOTRA? ISLAND. Passing steamers now. Two steamers' smoke
and funnels and mast visible on Horizon. Saw sharks. Land very barren. Heading
up G[ulf] of ADEN to ADEN now. Last Sat. we had Neptune's Day and many were
ducked. A lot of us are very bad with vaccination results. Temperature not so
high now. Mail closed on Sat. at 10am for censors - I sent many letters home
and elsewhere. The sea has now lost its blue and its green. We expect to be in
camp next Sunday if lucky. The removal of coal has apparently finished. Made
2/6d and 1d into identification discs yesterday to send home as mementoes.
[See P8.]
p9 Tuesday Dec 14th.
Stopped at ADEN for an hour to [get] mail - absolutely barren craggy hills and
sand. .. big verandahs on houses - prison - winches - signal stations.
Continued up RED SEA. Passed some arab dowh. At 3.15pm. We did not anchor but
just hung about ADEN - arrived there at 11.30am. Yesterday afternoon and
this morning constantly passed big steamers on way out. Saw a native skin
village of several hundreds - a camp. ADEN Town is 4 miles or so from where we
stopped.
Friday Dec. 17th 1915 10.15pm
We often pass steamers now. Had our Field Service dressings issued yesterday.
Our kits returned from hold yesterday. We passed some islands this morning.
Got paid 30/- on Wednesday. Final concert and Fancy Dress ball this evening.
Medical exam today. Wrote to Dad yesterday.
Saturday Dec. 18th 1915. 2pm
We are now at anchor at SUEZ having arrived there at noon. Weather perfect.
Passed Australian troopship yesterday. She and the NAVUA arrived about 1pm
today. An Indian troopship passed on its way out about 11.30am. In the port
are several men'o'war - Italian, French and British - also an Indian troopship
(apparently). Only cactus trees on shore - country absolutely barren - all
sand. Asiatic coast hilly - we can see many ships slowly steaming down canal -
dowhs in abundance. Some are around bartering - cigarettes, etc. Large oil
tanks on shore. [crossed out: leaving by train today at 5pm.]
Wednesday Dec. 22nd 1915. 11am.
Left SUEZ by train for ZEITOUN on Monday last - passed while in train decent
gardens - had much fruit - gauge railway 4'6" - arrive at midnight.
Have done no drill yet - we are re-organising - very big camp - Australians,
Indians & NZrs. Went to CAIRO by rail yesterday - 20 minute journey - better
than NZ carriages - natives employed. Drove around for 2 hours - saw all the
bad & good - unless there one has no idea of it. We saw the Wazzaa in all its
filth - and were shown all by a guide for 10 piastres.
SKETCH: Arab dowh as seen at SUEZ, Suez Canal etc.
p10 Friday Dec. 24th 1915. 10.30am.
On Wednesday afternoon we had a route march of about 12 miles all around
ZETOUN - some very dirty crowded parts as well as some very clean beautiful
gardens and buildings. Although mid-winter here it is as hot as our NZ summer.
Arrived back at 5pm and went straight on Quarter Guard at 530pm until 4pm
yesterday (Thursday). We had 11 prisoners. All the sergeants of A Coy were
yesterday removed to quarantine as yesterday one of .. has spinal meningitis.
Many have measles and are quarantined. We sleep in rough pine huts which hold
about 100 men. We have no mattresses - simply on the desert sand on oilsheets.
Am off today - 24 hours after guard duty. The main body are arriving today
from the Pen[insula?]. Saw CHAS POPE?, MONTE BILKEY, JACK POTTER, ROY FORDHAM,
and several other previous chaps. C ROPER is an orderly room sgt and is
probably not going back to the front as he has been shot through the calf.
ALAN GREY has been hit by shrapnel in the eye and is going blind. This is an
enormous camp and one sees all sorts of men.
We have had nothing since we came but tinned beef and bread and jam. Tea is
drunk. There are wet and dry canteens here. I expect to lose my rank the same
as all or most of the other NCOs as this is the rule here - men with active
service take our places I believe. There are lovely gardens of sugar, dates,
etc. Oranges, tomatoes, sweet spuds, cabbages, dates, sugar and flowers grow
in abundance when watered. We see camels, mules galore out here. The natives
do nearly all the dirty work here for a few piastres per day. It is Xmas Eve
today and must be Xmas Eve about 11pm at home. I suppose you are well having
a good time. I am sitting on the ground. It is raining here slightly and is
quite a novelty. We also saw drops at SUEZ. I think I am going to CAIRO or
else HELIOPOLIS tonight. Plenty of lice for one to contact here. The
newspapers here are very paltry - 1 large double sheet of scanty news. There
are 1000s of hawks here - sacred and protected.
=======================================================================
Envelope marked CENSORED BY GCW Armstrong Lieut.
Miss Vera B HALL, "Lebu", Dominion Road, Devonport, Auckland, New Zealand
Stamped on back: Devonport 15 Feb 1916
Contains
- 2 postcards of Cairo
- A card: A Xmas Greeting Egypt 1915 from Zeitoun, YMCA No 1
(NAZ (sic) Expeditionary Forces) WA HISLOP, Secretary
- [P9] The menu (in French and English) for Xmas Day 1915 at
The London Tea Room, American Bar, Brasserie, Restaurant,
Rue Emad El Dine, Imeuble Khedivial, Le Caire (Cairo)
with photo of hotel on back and diagrams of 7 Egyptian coins and their value
-[P10] Program in Greek headed Radium dated 26.12.1916
-[P11] 4 tram tickets in Egyptian and French
-[P11] Postcard "Suez - Quai de Port-Tewlik". On the back:
Dear Bar
Just a line to wish you the usual very best. I am writing to you this week and
so wont say much in this note. We are having lovely Egyptian weather today
(Xmas) but are very lonely being away from all the good times.
Very best love from Harry xxxx
=======================================================================
A Company, 8th Reinforcements, New Zealand Expeditionary Forces
Best Wishes for Xmas and New Year
1915 (with Union Jack)
PHOTOS [P12]:
1: 2 men in suits
2: the same 2 men, one with lamb on rope and a third feeding a spaniel
3,4: a yacht, one with "Vera HALL" written on reverse
=======================================================================
DIARY p10
Sunday Dec. 26th 1915. 10am.
Yesterday Xmas day, I stayed in the camp all the morning and in the afternoon
took train with MURDOCH, MOORE, HADDNO, LACITY, ENGLISH & other shore boys
to CAIRO. Dined at the New Obelisk Hotel and it was sumptuous indeed. Visited
the Zoological Gardens and saw all the African animals, fish and snakes. Went
to the pictures in the evening - very good, but dulled as all the writing is
in French. Riots in WAZZA last night - one place fired - motorcar burnt and
windows smashed by drunken Australians. A Xmas dinner was provided by
officials but we did not wait for it. Went out yesterday - we passed over the
NILE several times. The bridges are gigantic. Many houseboats are seen. Also
great dowhs. The swing portion of the bridges are worked hydraulically.
Yesterday morning at 7.30 we had a Xmas service. Today I missed church as No 2
platoon is on line picquet. The main body arrived today and they are lousy
in many cases - new uniforms have been issued to them. Today is a fine bright
Boxing Day.
Tuesday 28th 1915 1pm
This account is being written in the desert outside Zeitoun. We are
trench digging for the first time here. Suez is very sandy and easy to
work. Not so hot as it is winter and a breeze is blowing. Had lunch from our
haversacks. Went to pyramids yesterday with MAC and FARRINGTON. Had rides on
camels and were photographed. Dined at St James 15 pt. Took car to pyramids.
Procured camels? from tombs and stone and granite from tombs respectively.
Went to pictures 5pm in the evening. Spent a good day. Got a mail yesterday
- ELLA, Mum, Dad, REG, LES, letter from EVE a week before. Purchased cards,
bracelet, scarf and 2 hankies on Sunday from CAIRO & HELIOPOLIS.
Thursday 30th 8.30pm Dec. 1915
paid 2P 12/- today in 153 piastres. Had 1st 2nd phases attack on desert today
- very hot. Saw TOM ANDERSON just from ANZAC - am writing tonight. Went to
CAIRO - met CRAIG & MAC & indulged in a bit of fun. Got our valises
yesterday - had an address from some Major from the French and other spheres
of action - lecture on attack.
=======================================================================
(12/3343) On Active Service
Miss Vera B HALL, "Lebu", Dominion Road, Devonport, Auckland, New Zealand
Censored - GCW Armstrong.
Zeitoun Camp, Jan 1 1915 [This should be 1916.]
My dear Bar,
How are things going with you? Today is the first of the new year and
so of course we are having a day of rest. We have been here for two
weeks now and most of the time has been spent in drilling and
practising the various movements necessary for the future. We hear a
lot of what may happen to us next and where we might go, but I am not
allowed to write here what I think we are going to do. Since being in
Egypt I have been [on] most of the trips you no doubt have heard so much
about. On Xmas day I went to the pyramids. They are really what is
claimed to be, but I was rather disappointed in the SPHINX which does
not appear so very big when compared to the great PYRAMIDS alongside.
We trammed out to the terminus of the cars and then hired
camels. When the camel rises the rider has to hang on to the seat as
best he can or else he lands on the dirt. We saw the Zoo on Boxing day
and the sights are wonderful indeed. I have often been to Cairo. It
is a very dirty place, but of course has its clean places too. There
are some great buildings all about here - far bigger then any in
NZ. By the news enclosed you have no idea of what some of them are
like. I received letters the other day, but yours must have missed the
mail. How is the new place?
I suppose you are well settled in it by now. If we can get leave this
afternoon, a party of us are going on a trip to CAIRO again. There are
give train and tram services about here. The electric trains spin
along at about 25 to 30 miles an hour. Yesterday we were inoculated
again and I can tell you most of us are fairly sore as a result. We
had a bit of fun last night. Most of us waited up and saw the old year
out. We had tincans, plates, whistles, drums and all manner of noisy
things. We were not disturbed this morning and so slept in until about
8.30 to made up for it. JERRY was sent to the hospital the day we
arrived with some complaint. But he is progressing now. I am told. I
am sending you under separate cover the Egyptian bracelet you
wanted. It only cost me 10/6 & I could not get a gold one as I had not
the money. Yours is silver which is gilded, but it is a genuine one,
made here. Things are very cheap here, but if a good article is
required, then a good price has to be paid. I say did you write a line
to the dartsin? wells? I mentioned in my previous letter? Let me know
if Mum, Dad & all get the things I sent. How is the old beach stakes
now? I only wish I was there to join you and the rest. Well Bar, I
shall write more later. The mail closes soon and I have many more to
write. Send along the usual, like a good kid. I am having the usual
time and am as fit as a fiddle. I hope you are jogging along in good
style still.
I remain, Your old pal, Harry xxxx
=======================================================================
Envelope marked On Active Service 12/3343
Miss Vera B HALL, c/o UTTING, Ferry Buildings, Auckland, New Zealand
Passed by Censor - GCW Armstrong, Liut. Stamped 10 JA 16
See [P13]: Photo of 3 of them in uniform on camels in front of the Sphinx and
a pyramid [He is in centre. On LHS? is L Corp. GEORGE MCKENZIE. On RHS? is
FARRINGTON.]
On back [addressed to Vera as above]:
January 3rd. 1916
My dear Bar,
This was taken on Xmas Day when we were on our trip to the pyramids. I
have sent home an enlargement of same. Let me know if you and all get
the letters and presents. I don't suppose we shall be out of it much
longer now. I am well and feeling as fit as a fiddle. Best love to you
old sport.
Your old pal
Harry xxxx
=======================================================================
DIARY
Tuesday January 6th 16.
Had operation yesterday from 2pm to 8pm - a defensive? again - outdone by the
agtn? and the Maoris.
Thursday January 13th 1916
Moved on Saturday into the 7th huts. We have better food now - have had no
mail for 12 days. Was on guard from 5pm on Monday for 24 hours - Quarterguard
- was on Escort yesterday but was compelled to come home and go to bed on
account of severe pains in abdomen - was in bunk all today - had a job getting
suitable food. MORIS DAVIES made me some pobs last night. Was paid on Tuesday
afternoon 171 piastres (1P 15/-). When on the guard tent MONTY MELKEY and
TOM SEISONS? JIM CRAIG was my 2 of the guard and so we had a good time. I
slept from 1.30am until 430am. There is a rumour that we are going to France
in 4 months - only a rumour however.
=======================================================================
Jan 14th [19]16
Dear Bar
These are models of the discs we have to wear. Ours are made of zinc & we are
not allowed to be without them. They are worn hanging by a cord around our
necks. Yours to a cinder
Harry xxxx
Give one to the boys
=======================================================================
DIARY
January 18th 1916 (11am) Monday
Have had letters from Mum, Bar, LES, REX, by last mail was ill with pains in
abdomen for two days last week. Was on an escort last Thursday. Last night was
in charge of a ZEITOUN Picquet - arrived back at 1am - have this morning off
- no result - we are filling in time with all kinds of elementary drill now.
More Australians arrived last night and went on to ISMALIA direct. We are
moving on shortly by all accounts. We have a primus in our end of the hut
and often make cocoa and toast. Several times made my own breakfast with
poached eggs and toast and cocoa. We now have to do all our drill with full
equipment including our valises or packs fully packed with service gear. We
are allowed to wear any kind of khaki uniforms we choose (dark khaki). I wear
riding breeches as they are most comfortable and neat. Inoculate last week
again.
Friday Jan. 21st 1916
I was on ZEITOUN picquet again from 5.20 to midnight. Have this morning off
in consequence. Saw a lake mirage plainly yesterday when on desert. I was in
charge of a reconnoitering party. Last night while on picquet a chap
knocked over a large bat - about 18 inches from wingtip to wingtip - just
like a large rat with thin skin wings. We were out along the ISMALI irrigation
canal doing outpost practice on Wednesday. We took our midday rations - great
ants, black, 1 inch long and large purply black legs in abundance. Saw a
peculiarly shaped lizard the same colour as the sands?. We had a severe hail
& rain squall yesterday and the water poured into our frail huts. There was
a great bustle to get our blankets and gear covered over. We are all broke
and anxiously looking forward to our next pay. Last night a great trainload
of camels passed through ZEITOUN en route for the canal where an attack by
the Turks is expected next month sooner or later.
Sat. Jan. 29th 16 3pm
Was in charge of QMS [Quarter Master Store] Fatigue yesterday. Had this
morning off as I have a cold in back slightly. Our weekly mail has not yet
arrived - our trench repairing in the rain all day on Wed. last - was cold
work - went to the HELIOPOLIS vaudville last Thursday evening with MAC and
ROPER. Was in charge of No 3 platoon on Wednesday morning when General
BIRDWOOD inspected us. We were all spick and span and created a good
impression I think. Our whole battalion turned out in lines of Coy and the
band played selections. But it was very weary standing from 10 till 12.30
doing nothing. I was in charge of the No 2 platoon on Thursday and Friday
and had an amount of experience. Major ROSS has been relieved by Major
SAUNDERS. Great semi-riots have occurred lately owing to the harsh (apparently)
treatment in reference to cleanliness. But the men seem much more satisfied.
MURDOCH and the others returned from the school of instruction today.
So far I have received no papers or parcels only a few letters. Today I made
some bovril as I have a cold in the back. We have had a deal of rain lately
and have suffered accordingly. It seems queer going to bunk with the rain
drip dripping every time it rains. Today is perfect although this morning at
6am when we arose the air was as cold as ice. I was at HELMEIH last night
with TOM SAISSONS.
Tuesday Feb 1st 1916 noon.
Yesterday our battalion had a full day route march to CAIRO. Left at 8am and
carried our equipment and tucker. Had dinner on the banks of the NILE and
rested for an hour or so. We saw much - houseboats, dowhs, barges, hundreds
of natives who hang around and grab for any waste food which the soldiers
throw away. We are not allowed to talk to these on the march or at the halt
as so many spies are about. I had to take charge of the motor garage guard
at HELIOPOLIS. I slept in a motor ambulance. I saw BERT PROSSER who works in
the garage shop there. He said he had heard from CHUB. I am off duty this
morning. I have a chafed thigh and a blister after yesterday's march. Sg.
CRAIG, LUNN & I just returned from Mrs MASON's Helmich? tearooms where we
had morning tea & cakes. I have just read letters from NZ for the third time
as they seem so good and recall old times. JERRY LUNN returned from the
hospital yesterday. Many of our men are going to join the main body at
ISMALIA this week. The 9ths are expected next week early. JIMMY CRAIG and I
photo ourselves on Sunday with full equipment.
The mornings now are very cold and this morning as we were returning from
HELIOPOLIS guard in the motor it was very foggy. We our? Coy and Platoon
drill this afternoon
=======================================================================
Envelope marked On Active Service 12/3343
Miss Vera B HALL, "Lebu", Dominion Road, Devonport, Auckland, New Zealand
Censored & passed - KA ECHACK? Stamped 7 FE
(Same address)
Wednesday February 2nd. 1916
My dear Bar,
Just a few more lines to keep the ball rolling. I received your letter
which was written on Dec 12th, on Sunday last. I was in extra good
spirits that day when it came as it was accompanied by five others. I
heard from FLO, Mum, Dad, the boys and CONNIE LLOYD. The mail orderly
is always rushed here as you can guess. I am glad you wrote home to
London to MARJORIE and I am eagerly looking forward to word from
her. Yes, I reckon you are a fair hero for dropping word of gratitude
to the Wellington skirtstakes - she is a very decent sort. I heard
from her some time ago. I suppose you had a good time at Hamilton on
Xmas. How is EVE? When you see her convery my best wishes please. Our
Xmas went by fairly quietly although I had some excitement as I
described in a previous letter. Fancy old LES escorting Mum around the
Province. I can just imagine him sporting his new lid and making
inquiries at Te Aroha, etc, for Mum's benefit. Why didn't you go too?
You must have received a shock when JIM came to light with an heir.
"The old horse still has a kick in him", what! FLO's trip you
mentioned is a good one I believe. I was surprised to be a guest too
and I would have taken advantage of it if I had been present in the
flesh. I think that `varsity coon wanted my number so as he could send
me a magazine. Several of the chaps here, who were students there,
have received them, but mine has not come yet. Yes, I suppose the lads
will miss the yachting stakes. I know I do - badly. All the shore boys
are hanging on well and all of them are eager for the time to come. Poor
BUSTER! [FLO's son b1911] I have sent him and FLO small gifts. I often think
of him. He is a good little chap and, I suppose, will have grown out
of recognition by the time I return. The kiddies here are, on the
whole, disgustingly filthy. There are, of course, some who are cared
for, and who are clean and well mannered; but these form a
minority. Hundreds of them, with ages ranging from three upwards, have
to fish for themselves, and eat all manner of dirty scraps which they
pick up in the gutters and out of refuse tins. Many of them smoke
butts found on the road. So you see our children in New Zealand are
well-off. I am enclosing a small PHOTO [see P14], showing our war equipment. It
is heavy and requires a certain amount of strength and endurance to
carry a long way. Fancy carrying your rugs, eating and cooking
utensils, greatcoat, bandoliers, ammunition, belt, bayonet, rifle,
entrenching tool, water bottle, toilet gear, housewife, extra socks,
jersey, towel, balaclava, any extra personal belongings and also an
oilsheet all in one load, and sometimes for fairly long distances. But
we leave our rugs in camp as a rule. It is wonderful how quickly one
accustoms oneself to such a load. Today I had a holiday as I hurt my
foot slightly last week. But I am going out on drill again tomorrow. A
number of our chaps have been called upon to go away on Saturday
inst. I did not apply as I did not wish to become separated from my
pals. SERGEANT CRAIG and I are arranging for an autograph card address
with our photographs attached to be printed. If it comes off I shall
send one along. How is JUN's new motor? I expect you put in for a few
drives around. Last Monday night I was in charge of the Helipolois NZ
Motor Garage Guard. I saw BERT PROSSER there. He is working in the
repair shop and is more than having a good time. We came back to camp
in one of the NZ motor ambulances at a hell of a pace at six am. The
other morning we had a call to arms; but it proved a false alarm after
the whole battalion had paraded. When the alarm was blown I was in a
bath of hot water and had to go for it to be there in time. Well Bar,
dear kid, you just about have my newsbox, stock and all. Have a good
time and let me hear from you as much as possible. Give my best love
to all and tell them I am writing as I have managed to prick pen and
into? from - (the censor might want to know why).
With best love,
I remain, Your affec. old pal,
Harry xxxx
PS I am writing in bunk - a luxury - I don't think.
=======================================================================
DIARY
Tuesday [February] 8th 1916.
Paid 1P 15/- yesterday. Was on guard at HELIOPOLIS motor garage
Sunday eve? Had Monday morning free. So JIM CRAIG and I got duty passes
until 5pm so as to visit CAIRO to get estimates for our autograph certificates.
We went to Gov. PT works on the NILE and were recommended to some place in
CAIRO which took us about 2 hrs to find. Went to the police station for
a policeman to guide us there. Have to go on Wed. (tomorrow) at 7pm for proof.
Most of our tramrides were backed? We got several buttons given us. Wrote
home and away and sent printed "Wails" too. Had dinner at .. in CAIRO and
finished up at the pictures. We saw a Maori officer for a time (Ms Ehau?).
The 9th come tonight I think. Received our billies last Saturday (gift b
from Auck. PAT. CONN.) Have learnt semaphore sending - just getting the
knack of receiving. Have sent a p.c. to Mum & Dad. Saw Mr BROADY and he
made out transfer cpland? which I am sending home next guard. (He did it on
Sunday evening prior guard.)
February 10th 1916. 7.30pm
Had skirmishing on desert yesterday. Pitching tents for 9th last night. They
arrived yesterday and today. Was Corps of CAIRO guard today, guarding
wounded who were embarking train for CAIRO, thence NZ. Route march this
afternoon. Purchased a VPK camera (175 pts) yesterday evening. Saw the
beginning proof of our No 2 platoon autograph sheet. [See P15. This contains
the following service numbers - all prefixed 12/ except the one prefixed 7/
below - and signatures:]
3216 GCW ARMSTRONG Lieut. 3293 ML DAVIES Corpl.
3233 J CRAIG Plat. Sergt. 3343 HF HALL Corpl.
3223 N DURHAM Sergt. 3387 SJS LOCK Corpl.
3259 HW BOYNE Sergt. 3404 G MACKENZIE L/C
3245 L? BAKER 3359 PM HOBSON 3437 JACK E OAKDEN
3261 C BERTELSEN 3362 HE HOUSTON 3340 HB HADDOW
3254 DC BLACK 3526 TC JACKAY? 7/2323 LJ SHAW
CJ JONKAS
3274 GW BROWN 3377 HM KENNEDY 3440 JW PATTERSON
3271 WS BULL 3065 C KELLY 3448 WA PRINCE
3270 FP BURTON 3383 CP LEAITY 3449 WA PROICE
3279 CH CARSON 3385 JW LAWSON 3458 JJ ROBERTSON
3286 AJ BOWLEY 3392 J LOWTHERN 3467 G ROPER
3287 JA COWLEY 3395 LV LUNN 3468 JJ SALMON
3288 A CROFT 3415 C MASON 3478 SJ LAVADERSON
3295 S DEVESCH 3417 EC MATTHEWS 3496 EJ TURPIN
3310 CL EARL 3421 FS METTAM 3506 T WHITFIELD
3313 A ENGLISH 3426 LM MOORE 3509 R WIEDENBOHN
3318 HS TILE 3427 RC MOORE 3510 G WIEDENBOHN
3323 A FAWSON 3429 VM MORRIN 3516 EH WOODS
3328 AM GILL 3431 CL MOUNCE 3518 P WOONTON
3330 HM GIRROS 3527 ROY GHUMMERCK 3521 A G AFAAG
Had a letter yesterday from cousin MARJERY HALL in London.[ID 61 at hall.html]
Had medical inspection yesterday morning. Some of the wounded we saw today
were frightfully disabled, some on stretchers.
February 20th 1916 (Sunday 8pm)
Have been doing heavy strenuous attack work this last week. I have had word
from M HALL, Mum, etc. Sent home autograph cards to Mum, VERA, FLO, LAURA,
LES? VERA's letter mentioned about her meeting ELLA in Auckland. Took
several snaps lately. Had the first roll developed but the results were poor.
Went to Camel Corps this afternoon and it was interesting. Today I sold shoes,
denim suit, riding breeches for 9 piastres. This evening I met a Maori from
Hokianga and he knew JIM ASKEW. Today I moved into a new bell tent for a
change. I am Orderly Corp. (Coy) for 3 days from today. Mr WHITE is now our
c.o. as Cpt KIRKER has gone to GEISA. I wrote to MARJERY HALL & ELLA & home
yesterday. We are still at HELMICH and ZEITOUN Camp.
February 26th 1916 9pm
At leisure in the tent after a strenuous day's practice in attack work on the
desert. Yesterday we had another route march to ISMALIA. Was Ord. Cp (Coy)
from Sunday last until Wednesday. I am rather stiff in the muscles now because
for the last few days I have suffered from a cold in the head and throat.
I sent my second roll of film to the Kodak today to be developed and
printed. The first the Egy[ptian]. did were not a success.
March 4th 1916 Saturday 10.30am
Have still been doing hard work on the desert. Weather was very warm. We had
a sandstorm for the first time on Thursday. Was on picquet MATURICH from 6pm
until 6am on Tuesday last (evening). Wrote to MARJERY yesterday. Am in charge
of the HELIOPOLIS Motor Garage Motor Guard tonight. We are inlying picquet
today and so this morning have had a medical inspection. I am back again in
about 5am. Our tents have been removed away. Met STEVE RICE last Thursday.
Sunday March 12th 1916 4pm
I am writing this on the desert at the spot where the Turks had their
artillery guns in 1915. I forgot to mention on late mens that we passed
through on our way here TEL EL KIKER on Tuesday on our way here. We are now
all C Corps until efficiency is proved, i.e. all former NCOs.
March 14th 1916 Saturday 8pm
We left Zeitoun on Tuesday and took train to ISMALIA from whence we marched
across the SUEZ Canal on pontoon bridge, thence to a spot on the desert five
miles out. We carried full pack and arrived about 7.30pm very tired. We
bivouaced on the desert for two evenings and now we have tents and are very
swamped - 15 in a tent, and more in some cases. We saw several monitors,
warships, etc on the canal lakes. ISMALIA is a very beautiful place - fine
mansions & tropical verdure, plenty of canals and fine roads. The country is
all sandy. Past our present camp are the road and railway (petrol engines)
which run to the trenches. The hill on which we are camped is the place where
the Turks had their artillery guns in the action of 1915. Aeroplanes pass
very high overhead to and fro the Turks positions. Daily we see the
observation capture balloon rise from the warships in the canal. I am now in
the 3rd Auckland Coy of the 2nd Battalion. Our old Coy is scattered all over
the place amongst the 15th NA, 16th Waikato and 6th Hauraki's. MAC and JERRY
have gone to the machine gun section. Cpt KIRKER is our O.C. All NCOs have
been reverted to the ranks, but some of us will soon be promoted.
There are stacks of great bugs, small lizards and snakes on the sand here.
I am in 2nd Pl[atoon] at present under Lt. THOMAS from Epsom. I made myself
known to him tonight and he showed me photos of old Epsom pupils. Our tucker
comprises bully beef, bread, jam, tea and cooked meat & spuds - the latter 2
if we are lucky and stewed only. I am now drilling 4 [times] a day in shorts
- the weather is so warm. The nights are very cold on the sand and the dew is
very heavy. We have had no mail for nearly four weeks now. Mr MCFARLAND told
us yesterday that we are going to Europe in about 3 weeks time. Today I had
a section to drill - a test I expect to see if I am efficient for NCO rank
March 20th Monday (noon)
On Friday night at 7.30 we started on a march over the desert from the Reserve
Camp & arrived back at about 9.30pm after a very strenuous hot march. On
Saturday at 7.30am we started (30 of us) as an advance party to MOASCAR
on the African side of the canal. We are at present busy fixing up the new
camp where we are to be re-equipped for the front. Great numbers of
Australians left for France last night. I saw the PRINCE OF WALES last night
- he is only a boy. On our march to MOASKA on Saturday we caught in a sand
storm - something awful - could not recognise ourselves for fine sand - could
not see more than a few yds at times. We are now along side a fresh water
canal where there is plenty of water thank goodness - now we can have a wash.
Indian transports are carting our tents.
Wednesday March 29th 1916 (5pm here)
The 2nd Batttn arrived on Tues. 21st and we had stiff work pitching tents for
them. Since then we have been doing batt. work 3 or 4 miles out on the desert
-very solid work. This week we are having night parades nightly. Yesterday
I was Bt. Ord. Cp. I met ARTHUR ROBERTS last Saturday eve. I also saw met
a number of teachers whom I met in the past at the Training College. We walk
twice or thrice a week to the better lake (photo taken) and have a swim. It
is a perfect place from the point of view of a swimmer. Last Sunday some
officers and a few of we NCOs reconnoitred the country over which we are
working this week daily & nightly. This week I have received letters from
Mum, EVE, REX, LES, JANET SUTHERLAND, LAURA, JIM, MARJERY, the 2 Misses from
Hobart, ELLA and was pleased indeed. Have never received a parcel yet.
MOASCAR is a hot, hot hole - flies galore.
Wednesday [April] 5th 1916 7.30pm
Last Monday we & others (1st & 2nd Brigades), trents, artillery, ambulance,
etc etc) were finally inspected by Mj General MURRAY who is in charge of
forces in Egypt - proved ourselves fit & suitable. Tuesday we were issued
with the high velocity rifles (shorts) which are point blank at 500 yards.
Went for a swim in the "Bitter" (once better) lake in the afternoon. We have
also been issued with 120 Mark VII ammunition and already iron rations. We
have on our backs our black squares with red diamonds as distinctive badges.
Our tunics have in them now the service bandage and gas helmet pockets. Today
we had a full kit (bau) and service valise inspection. We had to throw out
all spare personal gear - 20 lbs back? kit weight allowed per man. The 1st
Regiment left - probably for France today. Also the medical corps. We leave
at the end of this week. HARCOURT, ARMITAGE & I have charge of the MOASCAR
ordinance stores guard today and tomorrow. I am writing this in the guard
tent. I am writing home & elsewhere tonight.
=======================================================================
FIELD SERVICE POST CARD
Miss V. B. HALL, c/o UTTING, Ferry Buildings, Auckland, New Zealand
Stamped 14 AP 16
Reverse: NOTHING is to be written on this side except the date and signature
... I am quite well. I have received your letter date Feb.
Signed HF HALL
6/4/16
=======================================================================
DIARY
Sunday 9th April 1916. 5.30pm
I did not have time to write letters so sent F.S. cards away to home etc.
Received 9 letters yesterday from SYLVIA, Mum, Bar, ELLA, EVE, FLO, etc
Last Friday we had another inspection by General BRAITHWAITE and Col.
ALDERMAN - pronounced fit for France. Our platoon was made baggage guard
for the journey on Friday night at 11pm. The train I was on left NEVASCAR.
There were many train loads & we arrived at ALEXANDRIA about 6am Saturday.
Embarked immediately on several transports. I am on the (Cunard line) ASCANIA.
We left ALEXANDRIA at 6am this Sunday. We are well escorted by destroyers.
We are zigzaging all over the place to avoid any submarines which may be
about. Today we had drill in fallings? our accident posts. Machine guard the
4.7 gun astern practice today. I am allotted to a raft in the event of our
striking a torpedo. I am sleeping in the Sgt's quarters & dine in their
mess - good .. We are bound for MARSEILLES & expect to arrive in 6 days - God
willing. The 10th advance party arrived just as we entrained at MOASCAR.
=======================================================================
Envelope marked On Active Service 12/3343
Miss V. B. HALL, c/o UTTING, Ferry Buildings, Auckland, New Zealand
Censored by: - F THOMAS. Stamped PASSED FIELD CENSORED 1280, 14 AP 16
NEW ZEALAND BRIGADE FIELD POST OFFICE
(At Sea) April 14th.16.
Dear old Bar,
I received your decent letters last week and needless to say, was
delighted. I envied you in a way - having such good times tripping all
around. You must have been highly flattered when you read the
Ham. papers. Thanks for telling EVE to write. I have not yet received
her letter but am looking forward to receiving same. Look Bar, I have
about twenty minutes to catch the mail, so I know you will excuse a
short scrawl this time. I meant to write last night. You see,
yesterday I was inoculated (6th time) again and so did not feel like
writing. Lately I have met al lthe old Shore chaps, including ARTHUR
ROBERTS. He is still as happy as ever, although he has had some trying
times. How is the old "Keruru"? - A thing of the past I expect. LES
gave me a very graphic account of what happened. He and REX are a pair
of doers. You must have a rich time keeping them in order. Well old
Sport, tell them all I am going to write long letters next mail. Best
love to you and all. Don't forget it's letters galore I want. With best love,
From Harry xxxx
=======================================================================
DIARY
Saturday April 15th 1916 - 10am
I am lying down on my bunk writing this. The seas are very big and our 9000
tonner ASCANIA is pitching a great deal. The engines are going dead slow
more or less. We were inoculated on Thursday & (it being in the arm) made us
all very sore. Many (40 or 50%) are down with seasickness or Seine-
seasickness. I wrote small letters to Mum, VERA, & E. yesterday. We passed
MALTA on Wednesday. On Thursday we passed PANTOBERE Island. Yesterday we
sighted what was probably SARDINIA & CORSICA. We expect to reach FRANCE
tonight. We have seen submarines, trawlers (mine) and war vessels of a small
escort type. Concerts are held nightly in the saloon by different units and
the Brig. General always attends.
Tuesday April 18th 1916 noon
I am now in the train travelling from MARSEILLES to FLANDERS. Passed through
LYONS over the RHONE River through all sorts of towns - over rivers past
farms, castles, monasteries, over the SEINE River. Saw PARIS & Eiffel Tower
in the distance. Marched 10 miles to REBECQ over hard road. Stopped for
lunch at AIRE - a beautiful French village which was once overrun by the
Germans. We are now billeted in barns & farms - sleep on straw - cook our own
meals - wood very scarce - we buy eggs etc from the peasants - beer 1d a glass
- wine 1d & 2d.
Good Friday (continued)
On our way to PARIS we passed through miles & miles of vineyards - factories.
The railways are wonderful & very fast (ie expresses). It is extremely cold
here & is now raining - ground very sloppy. We are 10-20 miles from the
firing line - can hear sometimes, the guns & see the flashes at the front.
The Australians are also here - some at the front.
=======================================================================
Coin or articles of value should not be sent in this envelope ...
NOTE - Correspondence in this envelope need not be censored Regimentally.
The Contents are liable to examination at the Base. ...
I certify on my honour that the contents of this envelope refer to nothing
but private and family matters. Signature (Name only) [signed] HF HALL
"On Active Service" [stamped 3 JU 16]
Miss Bar HALL, c/o UTTING, Ferry Buildings, Auckland, New Zealand
April 25th. [19]16.
Dear Bar,
What ho! for a few lines to my old pal. I got your decent letter some few
mails ago, but lately have not heard from you. I am anxiously looking forward
to next mail for word. I have been fortunate in getting word from NZ lately.
Keep the ball rolling and tell them to keep on writing letters, where we are
now, are like good wine - they keep our pecker up. Lately we have undergone
many experiences - but "Mum's the word" says the censor. What sort of an
Easter did you have? Ours was not much good. Everything was so wet and cold.
On the Sunday Morning some of us were marched to a field close by and there
our Chaplain held a service. But it was so beastly wet and cold that much of
our time was occupied in thinking of what we did the same time last year. At
present we are doing all sorts of work and soldiering. During spare moments
there is nothing else to do but play cards, wash clothes (when opportune)
and cook our tucker. You doubtless will have heard of all our doings by the
time this letter reaches you. How is EVE? I concluded from your last letter
what was brewing at EDENDALE. LAURA had good luck. Is EVE's a good thing? I
met ARTHUR ROBERTS a few weeks ago and we had a good laugh over the bet I had
with him concerning FLO's last. Ask FLO about it? Well dear Bar, I shall send
cards regularly. Give my best to all and keep smiling - there's a good time
coming. Write like a dear. With best love, I remain
Your affec. bro.
Harry xxx
[Enclosed is a book lining of gold and green clover]
=======================================================================
DIARY
Thursday April 27th 1916 4pm
We have been doing route marches galore. We have given in our gas helmets &
have been issued with the latest type - 2 of them. Also goggles for
lacrimating gas & an extra F. dressing. Today we were taken through a gas
laden trench to test our helmets & to give us confidence in them. We also
went through a tear gas trench - the stuff is awful & produces blinding tears.
At night when the guns at the trenches were firing 1.6 miles approximately)
we can plainly see the flashes and plainly hear the flashes. We are now
having very short rations and are having hard work. We accordingly are having
to buy eggs etc to substantiate our meals. I received 2 Weekly News (24th Feb)
today from home & FLO I think. Occasionally some of us are to get leave to
LONDON etc which is only 8 hrs trip from here. I hope my turn will come soon.
Today was extremely hot - we left our billets at 7am & returned at 2.30pm -
continuous going. Sir DOUGLAS HAIG inspected us during the course of the day.
We must be off again very soon I think.
Saturday April 29th 1916 1.50pm
The colonel had all Butt? NCO and many of the officers frame out yesterday
afternoon & practised us in fire control and bearing. It was warm work indeed.
Today we are having off so as to rest for Monday's march. We were paid
yesterday. I received 57 francs. To show you the extent of my appetite I ate
8 eggs & 2 slices of toast & drank a billy of tea for lunch today. A French
tart is putting new pockets in my tunic tonight. Today is very windy & looks
like a change for the wet again.
Sunday April 20th 1916 1pm
Today we had church parade at 9am. Since 10am we've been busy packing in
order to move off at 1.30pm. Our full packs are very heavy & as we have a
7.5 mile march to -- we doubtless will be tired before evening. We are
approaching the F. line. On Monday we have a 14 mile march & then we shall be
only 5 miles from the front trenches. For her kindness in giving us hot
water, etc we gave the French woman of our billet a F.D.G. as a souvenir.
The women here work hard in the fields etc. Much hard work is done, each
village being apparently a centre making its own goods.
Tuesday May 2nd 1916, 5.30pm
We marched 7.5 miles on Tuesday & reached BOEYHAM? very tired. We passed
through many villages & towns. On Monday we set out at 7am & after marching
15 miles we reached BLEYS? at 4pm absolutely dead beat. Hundreds dropped out
- some were picked up by ambulance & others arrived on foot today. Personally
I was not blistered or chafed much, but was fatigued in the muscles to an
extent you cannot imagine. Our packs were complete with blankets & rations.
Complete - 70 lbs (estimate). We can now see the flashes - hear the machine
guns, grenades, etc plainly. We are only a few miles from the observation
balloons & aeroplanes & are the 2nd line of reserves. Only last week 4
Germans were caught in this billet. These French people were, only a few
months ago, driven out at the point of the bayonet by the Huns. Motors
of wounded pass inwards daily. We had a severe storm (hail) for about half
an hour today. There are 60 of us billeted in this house. Some more of our
Battn went to England last night. We have to be in readiness to advance at a
moment's notice at any time. Our gas helmets have now to be worn at all times.
Gas reaches this far - it has killed a great field of clover close by here.
It makes many of the inhabitants vomit & sick. These are the parts from which
the Huns were driven back a few months ago.
Friday 5th May 1916, 8pm
We've had some great experiences watching air fights, aeroplanes fly over the
trenches at a great height & are constantly shelled. When German machines fly
over they are shelled by the scores. Yesterday a shell burst at the back of
our billet about 200 yards away - made a great hole. I picked up several
pieces of the case - awfully jagged things. The Germans appear to be doing
some damage as cartloads of furniture passed by away today - followed by the
poor people. We are moving to the trenches in a couple of days.
Got a letter from MARJERY HALL today. Yesterday I received 9 letters -
awfully glad. Heard from LAURA, LES, REX, BAR, EVE, FLO, ELLA, MCSWAN, HIX.
Have been issued with steel helmets (May 3rd). Our gas helmets & lacrimatory
goggles are daily (?) inspected. We had an alarm (false!!) at 11pm in the 3rd
mist? The colonel biked into a 4' deep ditch in the dark - very funny -
much fun created (up our sleeves of course).
Thursday May 11th 1916 8.30pm
Well here I am still at BLEU. We are taking up the right wing of the trenches
(NZ Brigade allotted portion) on Sunday. We have 11 miles to march to
ARMENTIERE. On Saturday night I think. Today General BRAITHWAITE inspected
our bayonet fighting and seemed pleased. This is a newer & much quicker way
of fighting. Our company is awfully cut up now what with signallers, trench
mortarers, bombers, etc. The French mortarers went away today. We had our
rugs steamed to kill all the lice. This was on Tuesday. The lice are more
than abundant now. On Tuesday I received poor old Mum's box of varieties. The
cake etc was a real luxury - such things are unobtainable here. My word I was
pleased to know I was not forgotten. I wrote to Uncle JACK on Tuesday.
MARJERY sent me 3 papers & 2 decent letters. I generally buy my breakfast or
eggs at this billet. These eggs are some luxury & of course I am making of it.
All our O.C.s have had a turn at visiting the portion of trench we are to
occupy. I believe we shall have to work very hard indeed deepening the trench.
Well I have just had a good supper of 3 eggs & coffee, so think I shall turn
in & have a smoke.
Sunday May 14th 1916 10.30pm
Last night at 6.30pm we started for the trenches. We arrived ARMENTIERES at
1am this morning. Talk about dead beat - full pack for 13 miles. I had new
boots on - a six too big & so I suffered in consequence. Now I have 2 pairs
of socks on to fill up the gaps - cold footed! I don't think. We slept in an
old school or factory or some such thing. All the buildings etc are more or
less knocked about here. The fire trenches are only 25 minutes walk from here
so things are close indeed. We have now to wear our steel helmets. Last night
we got covered with mud - some parts were awful. All the cellar tops have about
4 feet of sandbags around - protection in case of a bombardment. I heard
yesterday that GEORGE B [FLO' s husband?] had joined - saw it in a cutting.
Monday May 15th (8am Monday)
We left ARMENTIERE under guidance at 7.30pm & after passing many smashed-in
churches & buildings, entered the communication trench which proved to be a
cap? 1 hour walk from the F. trench. It was very dark and rainy - some places
with no duckboards. We left our valices at 2m S stones in ARMENTIERES and
took only our bare necessities. We took post at approx. 10pm & relieved some
Tommies. I was in charge of a good post (No. 3) but later was moved to No. 5
to assist Cp. ARMITAGE. No. 5 is most dangerous & is in places exposed to
direct fire - there are no bivis attached to it. The night was as cold as ice
& gusty wind wrong for German gas which is the deadliest enemy. Machine guns &
company? we at work all nights - luminous rockets - bombs - no casualties in
this vicinity - things very quiet today - no sleep (rather 1/2 Hour). Got in
couple? shots. One portion I had to take a patrol to report to the Grenadiers
- 25 yards back & raked at .. by searchlights and rockets - but Kia Ora
was mine?
Thursday 18th 1916 (3.30am)
So far I am alive & kicking. We spent Sunday night & Monday in the left bay
of our sector. We had to work hard in the mud deepening & repairing parapets
- it was raining most of the time. At 7pm Monday we went into the supports.
On Tuesday at 6pm we returned to Bay 17 past . in the F line. Been here since.
Have had many shots but can't tell the results. The Huns are 150 yards away
now & they give us Hell - bombs, shells, machine guns & rifle fire. Flames
used at night - 3 gas alarms last night & this morning during darkness.
There have only been about half a dozen casualties in our NZs so far.
ARMENTIERES is being badly bombarded by the Germans - more ruins - 6 Tommies
killed there by a shell - I hear that 11 women were gassed there this morning.
I have a fair bivouac - get comparatively no sleep - fair tucker - mail often
- I have been here 5 days (nearly) & have not yet had a wash or a shave or
been undressed. You should see me now! A lot of us have had some narrow
squeaks. There are myriads of great rats here. This battlefield was once an
agricultural land. The farmhouse remains, churches, barns, etc stand yet -
awful in appearance and tokens of severe artilery fire. This morning is very
misty and we can't see the Hun trenches but are peppering where we think fit.
This is a wonderful village - a sandbag town! The trench leading to my post I
have named and signposted BEACONSFIELD ST. [Referred to as S.78 trench on p-8.]
Monday May 22nd 1916 6.30pm
Most of us got over our excitement of being first in the Front Line and are
now quite used to the roar and whistle and boom. Double sentries are kept all
the time. We are going away from the front trench tonight being relieved by
DICKINS I think. Poor GEORGE BROWN was shot on Friday night about midnight.
A M.G. caught and blew the right side of his head and brains for yards around.
It was in my trench and so we all were filled with sadness here. Several
casualties have happened. It was awful - a man has no individual chance of
retaliation when the shots and shells fly. At Friday morning at 4am (very
thick fog) I volunteered to go into "No Man's Land" to investigate some
peculiar sounds in the German lines. Returned safely with the supposition that
the Germans were line laying or trench post driving. Doubtless such a Centure?
metric one. Scared - very nervous the best of us. I arrived back and the fog
lifted and the Germans started firing. The planes are wonderful here.
Aeroplanes are almost daily fired upon by hundreds of shells but they are
hard to hit apparently. The were 13 captive balloons up am serving on
Saturday. At present the British are bombarding the German supports and
artillery heavily. The Germans for days past have poured big shells into our
artillery and ARMENTIERES. (Our dugouts here are about 5 by 5 by 5 feet and
afford poor rest and protection. I have only had small snatches of sleep this
week but today I slept all morning and wrote letters to the accompaniment
of shot and shell. Received Dad's cigaretttes yesterday. Also Uncle JACK's
first letter. Got 2 good ones from Dad. I shall be glad when this war is
over & all can return to a natural way of living. This is Hell!!
=======================================================================
In blue envelope "On Active Service" [stamped 25 MY 16]
Miss Vera B HALL, "Lebu", Dominion Road, Devonport, Auckland, New Zealand
New Zealand. Stamped on back
Devonport 18 JL 1916
Postcard of 2 dogs with "To greet your birthday" with a poem
Folded blue envelope with
PS Don't forget my new address. 22/3343 Cp. HF HALL, 2nd Batt. 3rd (Auck. Reg.)
Coy, NZ Forces - The same Coy as REG is in I think.
[P16]: A small spray from No Mans Land - ie land between us and the Hun.
It was very foggy last wed morn about 3.30 - (daylight 3am here) and I was
told off to take an investigation patrol to try and spy. We had to crawl on our
tummies and listen - a nerve-wracking piece of work. Yours truly landed back
again whole thank goodness. Well dear, this is where the spray enclosed as a
souvenir come from.
Harry
France
(Monday) May 22nd 1916.
My dearest Bar,
Here I am again old pal. Your letter written at your new employment arrived on
Saturday along with 9 others including one from MARJERY HALL and one from Uncle
JOHN. Dad's 3 letters also came accompanied by 100 cigarettes. Many, many
thanks to the dear old people. I always put these thanks on all the letters to
home, and then if any are lost in delivery, the news has a better chance of
reaching you. Uncle JOHN has written to me and invited me to the freedom of his
house in the event of my getting leave to England. Of course my turn for such
leave will come in the course of a couple of months provided all keeps well.
Poor old Mum! My word Bar, I am continually wondering about the old people and
Mum's complaint. I was awfully sorry when I heard of the bad turn, but again,
awfully pleased and relieved to hear that things are well again. I only hope
Providence spares us all to meet again. Then, won't there be happiness and
contentment. You have no idea how I am looking forward to the time ahead
when we all shall meet again. Give Mum and Dad my love.
So you are back again in "Lebu" - a decent place too. Fancy old REG and the
launch. What a time those lads at Mototapu must have had when in camp. I saw a
picture in a "Weekly News" which was floating around here, and I could not keep
thinking of the contrast between training camp and war camps.
How is the camera Bar? The photos LES sent were taken by your VPK apparently -
not bad either. I had to place my camera in the base stores the same as
everybody else. Court martial awaits the man found with a camera here. I was
sorry to part with same. I say Bar, I sent home a good few photos and films I
took in Egypt by IAN MACKENZIE, so look out for them. I met him at MOASCAR some
time ago. Inquire for them as they are very good ones and tell me what you
think of them.
We getfair food here under the circumstances -dam dangerous. These are items:
army bread & biscuits, jam, ham, cheese, bully beef, army rations (consisting
of tinned meat and vegetables), tea and stews. Healthy, but possessing the army
ration virtue - invariably the same. At present we have no sport and snatch a
little sleep whenever we can. We have to work hard doing navying and such work.
We have been in the trenches for a week now (8 days) and have had a good
sprinkling of war - otherwise Hell - the only suitable expression I can think
of. I have been right up in the five trench all the time - only a matter of
150 yds from Fritz. We have had four gas alarms and have had to don our helmets
-rotten things stinking like a mixtures of a dozen dentists' shops and 1/2
dozen latrines. This is indeed a sandbag town. Streets named, dugouts numbered
and trenches named also. I named the one I am in charge of Beaconsfield Road.
It is 20 feet long and contains 7 men and yours truly. We have had several
casualties - one in my trench.
Well dear, I hope things are well with you and all. I am as right as rain. I
hope to hear from you very soon now. With very best love and tons of good
wishes, I remain
Your old pal,
Harry xxxx
PS Fancy GT and HD getting married. You know where their chaps should be,
don't you?
=======================================================================
In blue envelope "On Active Service" [stamped 24 MY 16]
Address: Miss Bar HALL, Lebu, Dominion Road, Devonport, Auckland, New Zealand
contains
[P17] a French postcard of 2 children shaving their grandfather: on back
Souvenir picked up in a ruined house in a deserted town on the French-Belgium
frontier.
May 29th 1916. [So in the wrong envelope]
[P18] unsigned photo of soldier sitting in a field with 3 stripes -looks
like REX.
=======================================================================
DIARY
Tuesday May 30th 1916 6.45pm
Well here I am again - a week late in writing - all is well. This week we
have been in reserve/ in billets in ARMENTIERES. We got out of the trenches
last Monday - rather Tuesday at 3am & were glad for the relaxation. Every
day or night (alternatively). Several more NZs have been killed and wounded.
Bombardments daily here - a big church was burning yesterday - fearful & a
shame. Last night my 2 stripes were confirmed ie made substantive. They
evidently would not do so until we had been in the trenches. Had a hot bath
in a great beer vat last Wednesday. Had clean underclothes & towel issued in
lieu of the dirty ones (a great arrangement are the old vats - about 20 men
to a tub). Had a swim in a fresh water bath on Sunday morning after a church
parade - a lovely bath - water ice cold. Have had a rotten cold lately. I
celebrated the 29th May (28th anniversary) in the shape of a good tea - eggs,
chips, tea and cakes & sweets. Went to the pictures on the 28th nist &
reminded me of the good old pictures in NZ. We were issued with had & collar
badges today - much envied things. Cpt ARMSTRONG & PRINCE went to the school
on the 27th inst. Have sent home kerchief & cards this week.
Saturday June 3rd 1916 (2.45pm)
A perfect day in the Support (S.P.Y.) King's birthday. The S. Africans - to
our left - were heavily bombarded for 5 hours (11-4) last night. They
retaliated & the row was awful. We had a gas alarm at 1am this morning & had
to don our gas helmets. Machine guns played up last nights on both sides.
Now and again shells burst around one never knows when ones time will come.
We are having an easy time here - just waiting - listening - sleeping & a
little fatigue. I wrote to HUGH C yesterday. Our q.m.8 brings me an English
newspaper (yesterday's) daily, and I always devour its contents eagerly. Our
dugouts here are numerous but poor - overhead cover only 2 or 3 bags in
thickness.
[P19] SKETCH of him smiling lying on corrugated iron on mud in trench;
above are 5 rows marked sb (sandbag), b (brick), sandbag, brick, sandbag.
Caption: Side elevation of our dugout. HARCOURT, ARMITAGE & self - safe from
earth and flying fragments only.
(See http://freepages.genealogy.rootsweb.com/~kitwithers/2123/hall/harrysketch2.jpg)
=======================================================================
In blue envelope "On Active Service" [stamped 6 JU 16]
Miss Vera HALL, "Lebu", Dominion Road, Devonport, Auckland, New Zealand
New Zealand. Stamped on back
Devonport 28 JL 1916
France
June 4th 1916.
My dearest Bar,
Sunday afternoon - 3pm in the trenches. I suppose by now you have stern old
winter well in company while we are having, generally speaking, lovely weather.
But our nights are very cold, especially sleeping on the firestep (a standing
place in the trench) or else in our dugouts. Yesterday was the King's Birthday
although few of us had much time to think of it. The Germans strapped us a
little extra on account of this I expect. At present I am feeling rather dirty
because I have had no wash or shave for some few days. My clothes are in an
awful condition - covered with grease, oil, dirt and stains of all kinds. Last
week, when we were in ARMENTIERES having a rest or spell, we had two hot baths
and a cold swim provided at different times during the week. The hot bath
business is most deserving of praise and reflects great credit on the Home
authorities. Each tub holds about a dozen to twenty men and the water is about
four feet deep. There are about a score of tubs. The place was apparently once
a brewery & the tubs were beer vats. After the bath we hand in our dirty, licey
underclothes and in exchange get ones which have been washed properly. We also
get clean socks. We all look forward to our spell from the trenches mainly in
order to get the wash & clothes. Of course we also like the spell from the
noise and excitement. We have numbers - myriads almost - of rats ranging from
the size of mice to that of cats, and fair-sized cats too. But we are quite
accustomed to them by now and don't mind them patrolling over our chests, etc,
during our moments of slumber. Most of our scran is tinned stuff. We get stew
of a kind once a day, so we can't growl.
I often think when I look at the grass and trees around what a damnable thing
this war is. The trees more than get knocked about, but the grass seems to
flourish. We have artillery duels daily and the effect of high explosives is
most awful. Bags and timbers and sometimes odies are blown to bits when the
shots are well put. The shells from the artillery scream over our heads and
when they explode headaches and rude shocks are not few. I have quite a
collection of shrapnel bullets, pieces of shell, etc in my valice at the base.
Our dugouts are holes in the grounds or under the paradosses where we crawl
when the high explosives come. That is if we have timely warning. Of course
when the shells lob on or near to the bivouacs, then it is "finish New
Zealand" as the Frenchman says.
Today a mail came to the trenches but I struck a total miss (although I get
three from the school a few days ago). There were about half a dozen "Weekly
News" lying about today - they were almost "eaten and digested". Well dear old
Bar, I am alright and think I am doing well enough and so do not worry much.
How is the business going? I hope you can still pronounce "all's well". Give
the boys my best wishes. Old Rix has not forgetten the two doens. How is dear
old Mum? and Dad? I trust they are well and happy. Let me hear all the news
Bar. With very best love and wishes. Your old pal now concludes.
Harry xxxx
PS Tell them all I write whenever I can. Harry (in the dugout)
[SKETCH of him lying in the dugout with artillery shells flying.]
I share mine with HARCOURT [&] ARMITAGE this time.
[Enclosed: a stalk of grass]
=======================================================================
DIARY
Thursday June 8th 1916 (7.30pm)
We had some exciting and vivid experiences during our 6 days in S.P.Y.
We worked fairly hard at making brick and sandbag sandwich overhead dugout
cover. Went out on a wiring party 3 times - twice in daylight at 3.30 onward
a.m. Was lucky as SMALL stopped it in the thigh. A. YATES received an awful
wound - the bullet entering above knee - turned and blew out a hole (egg size)
4 inches below the knee. I was guide to the No. 5 p[latoon] of 8th SOUTHLANDS
to S.P.Y. last night. It was dark, wet and slippery - took us over an hour to
pass up the comm. trench. We are getting very short rations. Received a letter
from Uncle JACK. We are now in HAUPLINES in Reserve, sleeping in dark cold
cellars. Alison? bombarded us severely with 9.2 inch for an hour this morning
- on art. gun was unwheeled - an awful noise to wake up to at 5.30am. Slept
in today as a rest. Pinched! some cherries from a deserted orchard today -
they were a small luxury. Hun put over a messafe? over their front line trench
yesterday. "Five .. British pence in 8 days". I wonder what their game is!
Sunday June 11th 7.45pm
I had 9 letters last night including from Mum, Dad, REX, EVE, FLO, etc
=======================================================================
France
Monday Evening June 19th 1916
My dearest Bar,
Just the usual from your old pal. It is quite a long time since I had a letter
from you, but don't worry Bar, because I think a NZ mail is due here next
week. We have been having a good rest and change for about a week in this
place. We have been living in strong brick cellars which are, in some cases,
proof against most shells. Tomorrow we return to the firing line for another
two weeks agony, (or otherwise). The buildings all around here are in a
frightful state - all broken and smashed to atoms. The German shells are
fearful things themselves and cause awful damage. They are capable of
destroying weeks ad weeks of work in a second or two.
I have sent some comic books home to Dad and Mum. The pictures in them are
exaggerated as far as the expressions and appearances of them men go, but not
otherwise. The broken buildings, dugouts and trenches are very much like what
does happen here. We never have water to walk in in the trenches at this time
of the year except when we take up the duck-boards (boards to walk upon).
I had to take a fatigue party down to a battered old church two days ago. We
went to procure some of the posts & rafters from the church. They are used in
strengthening our dugouts. The church was once a very big one, but now is
roofless and in its walls and tower are great shell holes through which one
can easily walk. I found a small St Matthew's Gospel in French amongst the mess
and am keeping it as a souvenir. We never go short of plates, spoons or forks
here. We can find plenty in the old broken deserted houses in this town. Chairs
and mattresses are plentiful too - from the same source and our cellar (once
a wine cellar under a pub) is well furnished considering we shall be sorry to
leave it tomorrow and go to the cold trenches again.
We don't get too much tucker but are able to supplement it now we are here. You
would have roared if you had seen me frying twelve eggs in an old tin this
morning. I was getting nicely when the seventh one I broke proved rotten -
stinking too. I scooped the stinking stuff out off the good ones and continued.
My pal reckoned the eggs were stale at breakfast. No wonder eh Bar. But that
was a mere item. Better eat them than have dry bread and jam.
We have all sorts of such troubles, but most of us make the best of it and by
so doing enjoy ourselves even under trying circumstances. When I come back home
I am sure I shall prove a rough customer and will want breaking in to civilised
customs again. I received a lovely box of biscuits from FLO and BUSTER last
Saturday Uncle JACK and MARJERY sent me two decent cakes (the second lot) last
Friday. On Sunday I received a box of good stuff from MAY RENSHAW. So you see I
have been extra lucky this week. Bar, how is poor old Mum? And Dad? Give them
my best love. Tell EVE & the boys I am writing as soon as I can. Don't forget
your old pal and write. Best love to all and yourself. How is REX? From your
affec. pal
Harry xxxx
PS A pal of mine went to London on his leave last week. I told him to go to
Uncle's for a chat. He went and stayed for a few days & he reckons he had a
really pleasant time while there. Says MARJERY is a lovely kid.
=======================================================================
DIARY
Monday June 19th 1916 (11pm)
Have been in HAUPHIN's since Wednesday the 7th inst. living in a cellar,
working in the trenches nightly - shelled daily - parcels from MAY R, Uncle
JACK & FLO. FRANK WARRI[NGTON] visited Uncle JACK & had a good time. Had a
swim today in the hot tubs. Had a concert tonight - proved very nice.
Recollections of the 20th June 1916. The time 7.10pm on the 20th June.
Arose at 8.30am. Last night we talked until about 1am or 1.30am. Watched
aeroplane being shelled and the shells bursting. Saw church in the distance
which was set alight by the Germans.Took our valises and blankets to the
QM stores in ARMENTIERES. Bought a new pipe and .. Sunday stores for the
trenches. We are going out there at 9.30 tonight to a new sector. Just now
it is lovely and quiet after a shower. Wrote to FLO, BAR, MAY RENSHAW,
MARJERY, Mum & Dad.
Friday June 23rd 1916. 9pm (8pm)
Last night we were subjected to a most severe bombardment from the German
artillery. We fortunately escaped by hugging to parapets. We are in the
S. trench (i.e. No. 2 platoon) of a gap. Fatigues are strengthening up in
front of supports and in near of Five/Fire trench the unlevel soil. Last
night the parties both to exit post haste. I made some porridge this morning
about 3am - also cocoa. We are busy making new bivouacs. I am suffering from
an awful throat soreness. My? throat and uvula seem to be inflamed and are
awfully sore. Of course I have to grin and bear it. I got letters from Mum,
Dad, BAR, EVE, FLO, LES, REX, LAURA, JIM. LES sent me more gaslight photos
- not bad either. Today we have had some? thunder, lightning & rain.
Our trenches now smell abominably and are very muddy. I and 3 privates (as
sentries) are on gas picquet from 9pm 24 hours on.
Tuesday June 26th 1916. (0.40am)
This is rather a queer time to be writing, but I am going out on to
No Man's Land at 2am on a listening patrol and so wish to be wide awake for
the occasion. Things have been very unpleasantly warm from a warrior's point
of view for two days now. On Saturday we were given an awful bombardment in
return for same thing. We had to take to our dugouts for hours and had little
or no sleep for 2 and 3 days. But we gave the Germans worst and blew in their
parapets and workings in many places. We also destroyed a portion of their
barbed wire. They wounded a few of our chaps - a NZ raiding party received
9 prisoners including 4 officers and one dead
(June 26th continued)
Our patrols located also a sniper's posse in a tree trunk. This afternoon at
about 6pm 3 of our aeroplanes flew over to the German observation balloons.
They flew above the clouds and out of vision and when over the high big
balloons dropped some fire shells (new invention) on the balloons and four of
the great ships fell in a wild medley of flame and smoke to the ground.
Our boys went half mad and cheered for all they were worth. It was the most
wonderful and awful sight I have seen in the air since being at the front &
in my lifetime. Great blazing things dropped down with their observers,
all of which were enveloped in awful running and dropping flames. The Aussis
are making a raid tonight by the sound of their guns. One Sunday afternoon I
saw a TAUBE [plane] hit and fall just recovering herself in time. Last night -
bombardment. Coy's [company's] out?house shattered NZ mail burnt - some of
mine - I nearly cried at the loss. On Saturday I had letters from MARJERY,
MILL, AUNT RUTH. Synopsis from the Pelman. Cpt ARMSTRONG returned yesterday
and relieved Cpt KIRKER who goes to hospital - pleurisy they say probably to
NZ. On Saturday I caught a running? baby mole and killed it - very pretty ..
they passed? The dugout where I have been busy for a week is the one in which
Cpl JOYCE was killed in. A shell landed plump on the right hand corner and
going through burst inside with frightful results. But I blocked up the hole
with .... I make a fire in a pot in it every morning about 2 or 3am and make
either cocoa and toast or Quaker oats or both. These are good and scarce here
particularly in the front line. We are not in a location but a jar? and in
the supports (S.Y.O.?) so really in the front line as the real front line is
not manned.
Wed. June 28th 8.45pm
We have had daily bombardments - awful concussions and row.
Thursday 29th 1916 8am
I have been up all the night except 1 and a half hrs sleep early am. There
was a terrific bombardment on our left flank last night- presumably by the S.
Africans. I saw our T mentors at work yesterday - the bombs can be plainly
seen going high up in the air, dropping in the Hun's front trench and then
!! awful! Got a letter from Uncle JACK last night. We were expected to
liberate some Roger (gas) last night, but too wet. On Monday night I was out
on No Man's as a Listening patrol. On Tuesday night I was out as a covering
party for Cp. ARMITAGE's wiring party - very dicky jobs.
[ 4 pages missing]
particulars in reference to my past occupation, age, condition and education.
He said I might go - to England - 2 or 3 months in school. It would be just
decent to gain a commission.
Have had cards and letters from MARGERY for 3 days running. We had another
strafing this morning and on our right and left flanks this afternoon. Our
trench mortars played particular havoc with the German front line this
afternoon. The Huns are now retaliating with their mortars and I think
mine sweepers? which are awful in their effect. May we escape them. We have
now been in S.78 for 16 days - too long for a hot place. JERRY LUNN is in the
hospital suffering from nerves. DICK TURPIN has gone away with shell shock.
4 and myself had to work in the gap last night from 11 to 1.30 - filling in
front trench. Had a gas alarm there and the machine guns made us more than
careful.
Sunday 9th 1916 (July) Noon
On Friday four poor chaps (MILLS, LONG, HOBSON, HURSTER?) were blown to pieces
by a Howitzer lobbing right in their bunk? We were strafed by all sorts of
explosives yesterday and last night from 9 to 12 particularly. Many casualties
in the 1st Brigade. We moved down to the stripdosing? line last night at 11 ..
we have poor bivis and so don't expect much protection from the shells which
come over. Today is perfect and reminds me of the paddocks at home. We spent
19 days - the S.78 are here for 2 weeks and then back to the front line, or
so I am told. We hear of German socialist riots and British reverses -
I wonder! Have heard nothing about our trip or? commissions. The snipers and
observers are back with us for a time. We and Hun have the observation
balloons up today. Mr TAYLOR - our P. Off. [patrol officer?] was wounded over
the temple. Mr THOMAS is with us again.
Tuesday July 11th 1916 6.30pm
On Monday pm PHILLIPSON and I had to go to Regimental Headquarters and be
interviewed by GENERAL RUSSELL. He recommended me as suitable for commission
and this morning CPT ARMSTRONG told me to be in readiness as I have to be in
England on 15th inst. I had a hot bath and tea in town yesterday. I was one
of a big party which had to parry up gas (roger) cylinders last night about
11.30pm . Had to return during a heavy bombardment early in the morning and
it was not pleasant. Sq. CRAWFORD & Cpl ARMITAGE have gone (today) to PARIS
as representatives from 2nd Battalion to attend some Allies Review - lucky
beggars. Today we had a heavy T.M. bombardment and the Hun trenches could be
seen flying in all directions. The Huns returned a heavy H.E fire - but they
escaped our Subsidiary Line fortunately. Several shells lobbed in the
graveyard alongside. GEORGE MACK is in hospital - shell .. in arm and
shoulder. Mr THOMAS has gone to a job some place a way back.
Monday 17th July 1916 7.15am
Last Thursday eve. the O.I.B. [OTAGO INFANTRY BATTALION?] next to us had a
smack up raid - 140 out and 12 or so returned - the wounded were something
awful to look at. On Friday at 5pm I reported at Battalion Headquarters to
proceed to England to OTC [Officer Training Camp]. Went down to LUIBER?
Station in a kinker - arose on Saturday morning at 5am and took a timber? to
STEENWERCK - the R.T.O. instruct ed me & others I met there to proceed to
ETAPLES for passes. Arrived ETAPLES at 4pm Saturday. We are still detained
here but hope to get away tomorrow. This is a real good rest after the
strenuous time we put in the trenches. Food and beds bon. Yesterday we took a
slow walk to a pretty village - purchased food in a French house and the
people were good in the manner they bothered with us - of course we paid them.
I have a bit of a cold contracted in the train journey trip to this place.
This is an enormous camp and here one sees all sorts of wounded, sick and
otherwise. The cookhouse and cauldons are perfect arrangements.
Thursday July 20th 1916 8pm
We are still at ETAPLES. On Tuesday a small party of the "MASSY? TOURISTS"
as we style ourselves, went on leave to PARIS DE PLAGE - a beautiful watering
place of fame - lovely esplanade, houses - something of the great nature one
reads of in books. Today we walked to FRANC, a peaceful village - had a French
luncheon and wine -appreciated! We don't know what is going to happen to us
now. I am in the OTAGO temporarily.
Tuesday July 25th 1916,10.30am
On Sunday PAT HANNAH & I walked to CAMOIS and had dinner once in the
village and once on the beach at a hotel. The place is a great watering place
and so remarkably pleasant - .. scores of boats passing along the English
Channel. Had a bath at LADY ANGELA's home yesterday. I have been supplied
with breeches, thru boots etc in readiness for BLIGHTY? I am still at ETAPLES
lounging around. The sky is dull and we expect rain.
Friday 4th August 1916 5.30am
2nd anniversary of war. Wrote home & to England on Tuesday. Am still at
ETAPLES. Have had no word of moving et. Lovely warm weather.
[crossed out: 12 & 13th Rifles/Regts arrive today.]
Moved camp and made tents compact yesterday. Am now an Acting Sg [Sergeant]
and enjoy all the privileges of the Sg's Mess and Bar. Had a swim in the
Channel at PARIS PLAGE on Tuesday. The water was beautifully warm. Saw the
broken halves of the SOCOTRA.
Monday August 7th 1916 10am
Yesterday an aeroplane with a leaky petrol tank (hit by shrapnel likely)
settled down in the midst of some cornfields close by - still there.
P HANNAH and I went to ETAPLES yesterday afternoon - dined and had a look
around there. Received a letter from Mum yesterday and was very pleased.
The weather is dull now and rain is probable. Another detachment exit for the
Front Line at 3am today.
Thursday 10th August
We travelled via BOULOGNE and FOLKESTONE yesterday to LONDON. Put up at
PEEL HOUSE. Early this morning took train tube & motorbus to 99 D[Drayton]
GARDENS. [S Kensington, London SW. Home of Uncle Jack, Mr John James HALL.]
Met MARJE and aunt. Am now at 99 DG. Have not met Uncle yet.
Monday August 14th 1916 8am
I am now in CODFORD on Salisbury Plains. Uncle is a real good chap and Dad's
double in profile only much smaller. Went in St Paul's on Thursday afternoon
- wonderful - went down Leicester St, Charing Cross, Piccadilly, etc Saw
Trafalgar Square. The Underground and tubes are wonderful inventions. On
Tuesday Int. went to the Empire and after dined at some cafe - immensely
interesting. We journeyed in a 50 ml train to here. We are now endeavouring
to get a weekend furlough before our hard spell of training. I met ALICE
MENZIES in the Q.M. store and he refitted me with all I want. It is now
raining heavily. Last night I walked to CHITTERNE [Chiltern?], a small old
village. We are in Wiltshire.
Friday August 18th 1916 8pm
Spent from Monday eve to Friday eve in London. Stayed at Uncle's and saw
many sights. Went to the theatre with MARJ, Uncle, Aunt & PAT HANNA on
Tuesday eve. We went to see about the stick flave and got a good hearing.
Uncle Aunt & MARJ are real good sorts. We expect our reg[imental] leave at any
time now. QUANTON went on 3 weeks leave from today. Met F. GREEN in LONDON
in Records Office. Have had no mail for ages.
=======================================================================
In white envelope with a penny red stamp
Miss Vera HALL, "Lebu", Dominion Road, Devonport, Auckland, New Zealand
Stamped on back: Devonport 11 OC 16 NZ EXPEDITIONARY FORCE ONWARD
Letterhead: NEW ZEALAND COMMAND DEPOT, CODFORD, WILTS, NZ EXPEDITIONARY FORCE
August 19th 1916
My dearest Bar,
In Blighty Bar! I came over from France a week ago and since my arrival have
had a good look around a few places. I had a lovely trip across the Channel in
a very quick boat which zigzaged all the way across and was guided and
escorted by destroyers. The Captain of the boat made us all wear life-belts as
an extra precaution. We got across in about an hour and reached FOLKESTONE
full of curiosity. We reached LONDON when it was dark. I met MARJERY, Aunt
& Uncle there the other day and stayed at their place for four days. Uncle
is a bouncing chap and treats me real well. Aunt and MARJERY are darlings.
I went out to dinner several times with MARJERY and thrice to the theatre.
She is a fine kid and full of sport and life. I think she would suit you as a
chum. While in London I went through the Tower, St Paul's Cathedral,
Westminster Abbey, Madame Tussaud's and several other notable buildings. The
theatres and restaurants here are most gorgeous. Uncle JACK took us to the
Empire one night and we saw "We're all in it". Afterwards he shouted us all to
a good supper in some flash cafe.
You can't imagine what these London underground and tube trains are like. You
go down for quite a distance in a great elevator which carries about 30 people
or more. At the bottom you get out and find yourself in a great station with
offices and stalls galore. The train comes, you get aboard with a penny ticket
and travel half way across or rather under LONDON - all the time in a big
tube or tunnel. It is absolutely the limit in wonders.
I have been sent over to England for the purpose of studying and training for
a commission. I think I shall be here for about three months. As soon as I
know what the school is like I shall let you know. At present I amwaiting
orders here to proceed to the place.
In a few days I hope to get leave for ten days or so. I want to go to
Sheffield and also to see more of wonderful London. I write to Aunt RUTH and
last Thursday I wrote saying I was in England. It is pleasant to be away from
the fighting for a time.
How is REG? You young monkey - while I am away the mice play. I wish you
Kia Ora Bar dear. I have not heard from you for weeks and weeks. But now I am
in England perhaps I shall hear soon. Get my temporary address from Dad. I am
writing to all immediately - wrote to Dad today & to Mum on Thursday. Best
love to all. I hope Mum & Dad are in best of health.
With love, I remain Your affec. Bro.
Harry xxxx
=======================================================================
DIARY
Monday August 21st. 1916. 10.10am.
We spend 2 hours in phys. drill & work in a.m. & 2.5hrs p.m. in marches,etc.
yesterday being Sunday I went for a stroll to CODFORD to another village.
Went in an old church built 1624 - very old and worn but good. I have had no
letters again yet.
Thursday 24th August 1916 8.30am
Received a letter & cutting from Dad yesterday per medium Uncle JACK. Went to
YMCA concert that night. On Tuesday inst. went to opening of AOTEA ROA HUT -
good - free supper. We continue to carry on with physical jerks, bayonet &
shooting & musketry and have had no word of leave yet. A big draft left here
last night for sling for Front. Bought a new hat and slacks yesterday.
Saturday 26th 1916 1.40pm
Yesterday was very wet at periods. We did physical stunts & bay practice a.m.
In afternoon opening of AOTEA ROA tearooms by Hon. TOM MACK. Gen RICHARDSON
present also. Latter inspected us pm. Said he was going to see to us
immediately. Expect to enter an OTC at any time now. We may get leave .. ..
Went to CODFORD pictures in evening - crowded and I had seen most of the
pictures in NZ. Had supper at YMCA at 9pm. Have heard from Mum, Dad, MARJERY
since arrived here.
Monday Aug. 20th 1916 8am
Yesterday it rained heavily - PAT and I walked to WYLYE? - had tea there
& walked home. Wrote to Mum. Acknowledgement to MARGE re Dad's letter -
church in Aotea Roa Hut yesterday. No word yet from War Office. When in
LONDON, MARJERY had the films which I carted all through the trenches
undeveloped - good - although they suffered from time. Dad has received the
films I sent home per IAN MACK.
Arrived LICHFIELD? on Sept. 5th.
Tuesday 9pm Sept 12th 1916
Have not attended to diary lately - was at LONDON, Thurs. Fri. Sat. Sunday am
31.1.2.3 Spt. Saw last Uncle JACK. [ID 6] Had a good time - on Serpentine one
day - Rt. (Sunday) of Zepp - fall & wired for 30 pounds. 20 pounds remitted
yesterday - drawing same through MARGE. 17 letters yesterday. Am at LICHFIELD
CADET SCHOOL - hard training. MARGERY [61] sent a dozen photos of her dressed
up [see P20-P22] and on Serpentine. Met AUNT ALICE [P20, ID 7?]- nice.
Letter from COUSIN OLIVE. [Olive PASHLEY b 1893 ID 6471 at rathbone.html]
Passed through BATH, BRISTOL, BIRMINGHAM - arrived here on 5th - been
here a week today - food good - waitresses. Photo of Mum from LES. Measured
for dress tomorrow. Very little leave here. Was at practice wiring all this
afternoon. Have met some very nice chaps here. We have a nice ante-room,
gymnasium, etc. 2 letters from Aunt RUTH & MILLY. Heard H. ARMITAGE had been
killed.
Sept. 2th 1916 Wednesday
Still have continuing our training in drill and theory. Had 20 letters last
week and 17 yesterday. A lot of them were old ones and were from NZ. Very
urgent letters from cousins re money - a very funny episode. Heard through
BAR that CYRIL CALTMAN? has been killed. Heard from HARRIS last week. Football
practice has started. Our sports were last week. 7 letters from school kiddies
yesterday. I get leave on the 7th instant. Heard NZ advancing in SOMME. Very
cold nights and mornings here.
Oct. 4th 7.30pm
Went to SHEFFIELD last weekend and met AUNTS RUTH, MAUD, COUSINS JOE, ALF,
MAGGIE. UNCLE HARRY. All so pleased to see me. Account of places I saw in
back of book. Was held up at DERBY for an hours. ZEPPS on guard tonight.
Oct. 9th 1916 9pm
Went to LONDON the 7th weekend. Went to Theatre Royal in Drury Lane. On
Sunday went to the parade in Hyde Park - Hampton Court - Richmond. Arrived
back in barracks at 2am this morning. Have just written to FRANK WARRINGTON
in hospital. Being fitted with uniform this week - HAZEL & Coy - London
tailors. Our C Company 3rd in Competition Drill.
=======================================================================
In white envelope with a penny red stamp [stamped 16 OC 16]
Miss V.B. HALL, [crossed out: c/o W.S. & W., Solicitors, Fort Street]
"Lebu", Dominion Road, Devonport, Auckland, New Zealand
Stamped on back: Devonport 7 DE 16
Oct 15th 1916
My dearest Bar,
Yrs truly gets his frame on an easy chair and endeavours to write!
[SKETCH OF HIM WRITING]
Kick off 2pm Sunday:-
How is the game? I received your interesting budget of letters some time ago.
I am so glad to hear you are getting my correspondence regularly now. I am
still anchored at the above address and am having a safe and comparatively
quiet time - a time fully appreciated as you can imagine. Sorry to hear that
you, at the time of your writing, were suffering from influenza. But the trip
you contemplated taking to SYLVIA's farm must have done you a world of good.
Did you go out much in the motor car? I was so pleased to get a letter from
SYLVIA last week - thought she had forgotten this child altogether. I can tell
by letters that MARGERY has written, that the youngster is growing and
developing fast. I received MARGERY's p.c. [postcard] she sent when you were
there. Did GEORGE pass his officer's exam? I wonder where he is now - perhaps
in France? I don't think you know the pal I sent along to Uncle JACK. His
name is WARNINGTON. I suppose by now you have had my letter telling you all
about my first visit to London. I was there again last weekend and had a
splendid time. Uncle JACK has joined the ASC but I have no word from him since
he left. The weekend before I went to SHEFFIELD and met Aunt RUTH and Aunt
MAUD. I stayed with Aunt RUTH and had a basker time. I am going again when the
opportunity comes. Next Saturday I am to visit Aunt JENNIE. Yes poor old MAC
stopped a bit of Hun steel. I heard from and wrote to him last week. Stacks
of our boys are going and have gone - rotten affair this war. But wait until
it is over - then I shall be best man at the affair. Write straight away Bar
old dear. Love to all and yourself.
Your affec. brother Harry xxxx
PS Shall write more next time - I have a score of letters to wipe off this
afternoon. H
=======================================================================
In white envelope with a penny red stamp [stamped 1 NO 16]
Miss Bar HALL, "Lebu", Dominion Road, Devonport, Auckland, New Zealand
Stamped on back: Devonport 19 DE 16
C Coy, No 8 Cadet Battalion, Whittington Barracks, Lichfield, Staffs, England
31/10/16
Dearest Bar,
Very decent was your welcome letter written on Sept 5th. First and foremost
please accept brotherly congratulations and please convey same to REX. I am
glad to know you two are well pleased with each other and I wish you both
every success in your happy venture. Of course you are indeed lucky . If only
I were so situated what would I do? I am glad you received my cable. I worded
it in such a manner that I thought was concise and understandable. Yes - I am
A1 and only wanted you all to know so and to send me some of the necessary.
Tell Dad I received the money for which many thanks. Well Bar, I expect you
have long since this had letters from me in England. By the time you get this I
suppose I shall be back in France as our course here ends in three weeks.
So far I have done well, I think, but of course the final exam will show. Last
Saturday we had a trial test in which I think I did fairly well. Last week-end
(and I have been to the place once before) I went to BIRMINGHAM again and had
a most enjoyable time at Aunt JENNIE's place which is very comfortable. There
I also met Uncle (by marriage), cousins LEN, OLIVE & MABEL. OLIVE and MABEL
(ages respectively 21 (or so) and 17) showed me all about and it was quite
pleasant. I was to have motored to Stratford-on-Avon - but the weather was too
inclement for this. LEN and MABEL are twins and are LESLIE's age. A few weeks
ago I was in SHEFFIELD - a good time as per usual for Rix. In LONDON I had a
most excellent time - but of course I mentioned all about this in previous
correspondence.
Was so sorry to hear that poor old FLO [33 Florence HALL b1882] had such a
rotten time. I hope she is A1 by this time. EVE sent me a very nice letter -
NB gave me all the news - the great anticipation according to EVE's wish -
I am the God-pa. LAURA [31 Laura HALL b1878] has sent word too. I hope dear
old Mum & Dad are still well & happy. I shall write later - more. Best love
Bar [his nickname for 37 Vera] dear & best to REX [her husband]. From your
affec. Bro.
Harry xxxx PTO
PS Love to FLO - Mum - Dad, Boys. Tell them I am writing immediately. I heard
from G MAC last week - he is convalescent - doing A1 at Hornchurch.
I have not heard from JENNY - was sorry to hear about VERA LUNN's sickness.
Love to all,
Rix
=======================================================================
DIARY
Nov. 3rd
Went to BRUM? for 31st & 24th weekends. Met AUNT JENN. and UNCLE, OLIVE,
LEN, MABEL - had a pleasant time. We met? at present. Had an exam. last
Saturday 31st - fair results. Today we are having a NZ and BF competition
with other companies. Heard last week BAR is to be married this year.
Have not heard from Uncle JACK yet.
Dec 9th
Dec 2nd - George 2
Nov 24th
Nov. 23rd
Left the Barracks at 7.30pm and stayed the night at TAMWORTH? Went in train
from Tamworth to LONDON on Sat. morning 24th at 6.30am. Went to AUNT LOUIE's
place where I am now staying. On Nov. 21st (Tuesday) we had examination
(War Office). I passed with a middling p.r.
=======================================================================
In white envelope with a penny red stamp [stamped 29 NO 16]
Mrs Vera RUSSELL, c/ Mrs H HALL, "Lebu", Dominion Road, Devonport, Auckland,
New Zealand
Stamped on back: Devonport 22 JA 17
[Card for the New Year]
To dear little Bar and my brother Rex 2nd,
From Harry
[P20] PHOTO of Aunty ALICE, "self" (MARJERY?), "Mum"
[P21] PHOTO of MARJERY? on horseback Easter 1916
[P22] PHOTO of MARJERY? Easter 1916: reverse-
Dear Bar, MARJERY sent me this. Mind them for me. They are too heavy and
will only get broken up if I try to cart them around. Rix x
PHOTO Bandxstand at Westcliffe-on-Sea
=======================================================================
DIARY
Monday 21st - breaking up concert
Nov 23rd - spree at Tamworth
Nov 27th - met GEORGE BRAMBLEY
Dec 2nd - met GEORGE MACK
Dec 6.7 - with G MAC. in LONDON
Dec 9th
MARGERY has been at home for several days showing me LONDON.
Dec. 8th notification of appointment as 2nd Lieutenant.
Had photo taken - got some today. Was also taken with G BRAMBLEY and later
with G MACK. Last Thursday went to Mrs CANNA's (Mrs LUNN's sister) for tea
with MAC. Also on Thursday afternoon went to see Mrs EMSLEY? (LUNN's sister).
Have to report on Dec. 20th. In LONDON I go to Lyon's Conner house in the
Strand or Regent's Palace in Piccadilly Circus (to popular in Pris. once).
At night to the pictures and theatre often. I am very low financially at
present and I am still at Aunt's place at 99.
Heard last week EVE has a kid [PEGGY TRAYES b1916] & BAR is married.
Last week I sent home Xmas numbers of various books & many cards to NZ.
Heard from RUTH PACKLEY today.
Dec. 10th 1916 Sundy 11pm
Went to Chelsea band last night & to the pictures tonight at PUTNEY.
Stuck indoors most of today. Wrote to RUTH BASHLEY [? Mabel Ruth PASHLEY 6473
of http://freepages.genealogy.rootsweb.com/~kitwithers/rathbone/rathbone.html],
AUNT RUTH [648 of rathbone.html], REX RUSSELL today.
Dec. 19th 1916 8pm
Spending my last night of leave at AUNT LOUIE's house. [WHO IS SHE? Not the
wife of Uncle Jack, 3 at
http://freepages.genealogy.rootsweb.com/~kitwithers/hall/hall.html
& father of Margery.]
Every day I have been dining with COUSIN MARGERY
or else some of the boys in town/Jasons? Every day almost I have been attending
some show, picture or otherwise. I have to report tomorrow. VERA's wedding
papers (Heralds) arrived today. LONDON is very cold now with fogs and snow.
Fogs for almost 3 weeks in succession. Had a letter and card from BAR today.
[This was the last diary entry.]
=======================================================================
In white envelope with a penny red stamp [stamped 21 JA 17]
Mrs V. RUSSELL, No 1. Lover's Walk, Devonport, Auckland, New Zealand
Dearest old Bar,
Today yours of 15/10/16 came and as it is your last Vera HALL letter to me,
it is a bit of a souvenir. Of course by now I guess you and REX have received
my letters of congrats. In case they went astray, let me repeat my wishes that
you both will be happy. I am still in England, but not for much longer. At
present I have tons of work to do, and how I manage to squeeze in hosts &
hosts of correspondence I cannot explain. If this letter is brief, you will
let me off with a caution, wont you Bar. I had a Hell of a good time in
London, etc, the return to military routine seems more than rotten. I had
about a dozen epistles from NZ last week - from Mum, Dad, EVE, you, FLO, etc.
At present England is some place - all damn snow which is cold and gives the
country and trees a grand appearance. Several times I have met GEORGE in
England & of course we have always made the best of our meetings and have
together "seen things" in several senses of the term. Last Saturday I
journeyed to the Waterloo Station in order to see the "RED CROSS MARAMA" train
leave for Plymouth. ARCH TURNER was aboard & expects to be in NZ in five
weeks. He is taking home to all my best messages verbally and so met him and
he will let you know how things are with this youngster. I am very pleased
that Dad & Mum purchased for you a gift from me, and though I have not seen
the present, I hope it is a good one & that you like it.
Last week I had several parcels from NZ. A real dinkum one from Mum & Dad and
all, one from LAURA and another from HIX & GEORGE WRIGHT. I was so pleased and
am writing to all tonight. I also had a lot of cards from the old school
kiddies. They have sent me a combined present, but so far, it has not arrived.
How are all at home Bar? and you & REX? Write & let me know all. Next time I
shall let you have more news. Uncle JACK is still in France and it is long
since I have heard from him. But he is A1 so Aunt tells me. What did you think
of the Somme Push? It was indeed some go and was not attended without the
feature of sorrow.
Well Bar, I hope you are well and happy. Best love and wishes to you and Rex.
From your affec. bro. Harry
Enclosed business card: Lieut. H. F. HALL, 1st (changed to 2nd) Battalion,
Auckland Inf. Regt. NZEF.
=======================================================================
On Active Service Stamped Army Post Office 19 FE 17 SWZ
Mrs Rex RUSSELL,No 1 Lover's Walk,Cheltenham, Devonport, Auckland, New Zealand
Censored: HF HALL
NZIBD, APO s17, France
Feb 18th 1917
My dear Bar,
Just a line or two from your old pal. Once again I am back in this
beautiful (!!!) land of France, and expect to reach the dear old
wavering line in a day or two. The last time I wrote was from London,
where I was just concluding a most glorious spell of joy, etc Such a
time as I have had, I never shall forget. The relations are absolutely
decent - at least those I came in contact with - including Aunts RUTH,
JENNIE and Uncle JACK, and their children. France just at present is
an eyesore compared with London and the other places I frequented. Tons
& tons of snow and ice here, and consequent intense coldness. But I
have a fairly decent time at present - in the anteroom reading,
writing or playing at cards. Outside I have good times trotting around
with some of my brothers, and visiting different places. This morning
is Sunday, and so, like the good boy(?) that I am, I went to church. I
wonder how my little sister Bar is doing! I can see you and your REX
lounging on old Chelty or dipping in the brine. How is poor old FLO
and her illness? I met GEORGE at Slip in England, and he is doing A1.
Well dear, I must conclude. Give my best love to all and tell them to
write. Best wishes and love to you. Remember me to REX.
Your loving Bro.
Harry.
=======================================================================
On Active Service Stamped 1 AP 17 C1
Mrs Vera Russell,No 1 Lover's Walk, Devonport, Auckland, New Zealand
PASSED BY CENSOR 2331 Censored HF HALL
Friday March 30th 1917
3rd Coy, 2nd Auck. Batt. NZEF France
My dearest Bar,
Yours of the 27/12/16 here - also the decent little puddin' which was a bit
of the very best and was, I can assure you, well appreciated. I got our mess-
cook to bail it for me. Thanks dear, yes, time, as you say, does fly. It seems
a long time since I was at home though. Have you met GEORGE MAC' since he
returned to New Zealand? I don't think he will ever be able to return. PERCY
BRAMBLEY [brother-in-law of 43 FLO] is dead - from serious wounds received in
the trenches. Poor chap - and I never met him out here. Yes, I did tell Mum I
would cable when I received advice to embark. But, really Kid, I was not quite
wealthy enough to run a cable at that particular time. Mum, by now, has had my
letters from France, I suppose. I wrote you a letter on Feb. 18th. Did you get
it? This is the first I have had from you since Jan. 17th. I expect some have
gone astray. I am glad you had such a good time at Xmas. You seem to be very
comfortable & happy - you deserve it Bar dear.
LES and REG gave me glowing accounts of their cruise - fishing, shooting, etc
We get tons of the latter here. I have just spent a few days out of the
fighting - am A1 and as tophole as can be. Am going into another stunt very
soon, and shall let you know from time to time how things go over here.
I am glad FLO is comortable. Give her, Mum, Dad and all my best.
I think the war shows good progress at present. We certainly are winning. Hope
to see you in NZ sometime this year. Best love & wishes to you and REX.
Harry x
=======================================================================
On Active Service Stamped FIELD POST OFFICE 6 AP 17 C1
Mrs Rex Russell,No 1 Lover's Walk, Devonport, Auckland, New Zealand
PASSED BY CENSOR 2331: Censored HF HALL
[on back] Devonport 11JE17
April 4th 1917
3rd Coy, 2nd AIB, NZEF
France
My dear Bar,
I was very glad to hear from you - your letter written 27/12/16. Your Xmas
dumpling in good order and condition proved a real delicacy. I am back again
in the trenches, and here, the old noise and strife carries on. One thing is
particularly noticeable at present - we certainly have superiority. Of course
we do not continue without losses. Poor PERCY BRAMBLEY has "gone West" - has
followed many others. GEORGE [brother of Percy & husband of 43 FLO] wrote to me
last week from England, and he seemed very "cut up" over the unfortunate
affair.
I believe you all had many good picnics during Xmas. Next season we all shall
join hands at such occasions. The weather is very unreliable in these parts.
Signs of Spring - and then heavy snow! Have you met GEO. MACKENZIE or ARCH.
TURNER since their return to the Sunny Land? Well Bar dear, I hope to hear
from you soon. Give my best wishes and love to all and accept same yourself.
Your Affec. Brother, Harry X
PS Am writing this in a dugout - no time to write any more just now. H.
=======================================================================
On Active Service Stamped FIELD POST OFFICE 23 MA 17
Mrs R. RUSSELL, Derby Street, Devonport, Auckland, New Zealand
PASSED BY CENSOR 2331: Censored HH HALL
[on back] Devonport 22 JL 17
May 16th 1917
My dear old Bar,
I am sorry that you had not heard from me for such a long time - I can only
say I have written - if not letters - postcards. In the future I must pull
myself together and be more regular in my writing. But, really dear, when the
time does come to write, the inclination and matter often fail me. I was very
glad to receive your nice interesting letter - to know that you and REX are
progressing well. By this time I can picture you snug and settled in the new
little crib. Right alongside Mum and Dad is a boon and splendid for the old
people. Both Dad and Mum seem very pleased and excited at the prospect of
having their baby girl living next to them. Before being dispatched to my
regiment I had four days leave and spent the time in London where I made ready
as far as I could and purchased more kit. I hae been back with my old company
for three months now and so far am A1 - never felt better in fact. At present
we are having another rest - spells which very necessary to keep us strong
and enthusiastic in our efforts. The place where I am billetted is a French
farmhouse where live a peasant, his wife and family. They are very good
people and the old Madame treats me as a kind of son. I have a nice room
- shared by another company officer. We are provided with beds- sheets and all
complete. These French people (in this district) think the NZrs are their
saviours. The Huns were here once and did not leave a good impression behind
them as you can imagine. We are having lovely weather now. Spring. Oh MARGERY?
No, she is not flash in her dress. She is a very neat youngster - treats me
as a brother. They all were good to me when I was in England. I regularly
hear from Sheffield, London and Birmingham - from the relations. Yes, as you
suggest, I am sure REX and I would get on well together. How is FLO? I hear
from her often. She sent me some lovely letters and photos. Tell her I often
write and am doing so again tomorrow. Yes, I remember the house at the corner
of VAUXHALL ROAD and V. TERR. Truly, as you say, Mum and Dad are the best of
people. After I have mixed with thousands of people in several parts of the
world, I can vouch for this.
I wont bother writing "war" except to say we have had some exciting
experiences which make one's old pumping machine inside go full speed ahead.
We have, of course, had many losses all round. But we are doing quite well -
we are winning I know from what I have seen. Torpedoes and barbarism are our
only stumbling blocks to success now. But wait awhile!
No, I shall never settle down to the old game if I return. It will be too slow
and crawling. LES and REX are doing well from all accounts. I have just had
letters from EVE and ERN - decent! I hope REX has not to come here.
Well Bar dear, I shall write again soon. Please give my best to all at home.
Best wishes to REX. With best love and wishes, I remain
Your affec. Bro Harry X.
Flowers from a wood in France.
[P23] CONTAINS 3 species of pressed flowers and other leaves
=======================================================================
[P24]
undated: fine silk handkerchief with regimental flag? (red with Union Jack
in one corner) and French flag, all folded in embroidered lace container
with 5 flags (Union Jack, French flag & ?) For Right and Liberty
mounted on postcard on which is written:
To dear Bar. From Harry xx
On reverse: Fabrication Francaise
=======================================================================
[P25] Card "Remembrance sweet"
========================================================================
[The following notes are at the end of the diary.]
Page -10:
A. Ebuorton?, 69 Brougham Rd, Seacombe Cres.
NZ wine for AUNT LOUISE.
Page -9: MALAGAR
Page -8: Auckland to Wellington, Trentham Tauhherenikau. Featherston
Masterton Woodville Palmerston North. Upper Hutt. Christchurch. Hobart
Albany. Aden. Suez. Zeitoun. Cairo. Ismalia. Albury Hills. Moascar.
Alexandria. Malta. Marseilles. Rebecq, Peleu, Armentieres, Firing Line
(S.P.Y.), Houphines, S.78 trench.
[NB Where the diary refers to F. line, I have written this as Front line,
not firing line.]
Carlyle St across Altercliffe Rd - along Effingham Rd A town - Car home.
Grandparents & Gt.Gd. parents' graves (on Mum's side), Met AUNTS RUTH
[?6473 Mabel Ruth PASHLEY b1899 of rathbone.html], MAUD [649 Maud RATHBONE
b 1869], COUSINS MAGGIE & UNCLE JACK's two lads. [64(13) John Silas RATHBONE
b 1878 & sons 64(13)1 Alan b 1905 & 64(13)2 Joseph]. Saw bomb effects.
ANDERSON, Bowling Av., Epsom
GEORGE MAC Forest Park, Harf. Brocklehurst, Hants. [This address replaced by]
NZ Conv[alescent] Camp, Hornchurch, Essex
FRANK WARRINGTON Bed 17, Ward 4, NZ General Hospital, Walton on Thames
LAURA Ohura School, King Country
JJ HALL 2400 Pte c/o officer in charge, Exp. Canteen Force, BOULOGNE
ELLA Molesworth St Wng [Wellington]
C LLOYD, 9 Burrows Rd, Devonport
J SUTHERLAND, Domain St, Devonport
Page -9:
Kamate (2) Kaora (2)
Tenei te tangata puhururu
Nana iwhaka whiti mai tera
Whaka whita tera
Hupana (2) Kopani
Whiti tera (defiance)
Base Hosp. BROMHALL
Cloakhouse Rd, Wesley Coll. (old)
King Edward VII School JG GRAVE's Manuf. Off. - Univesity - ELLIOT's
monument from MK place to WESTON PARK- WP Museum -
Art Gallery - Winter St Hosp. (now a military hospital) - Oxford St arms
tip (valley_ = Ox. St Chapel -
Royal Infirmary Children's Hospital - top Portland St
Saw shop & house in Daniel Hill
St Phillips Kirk (inside) - James DIXONS
works - over Ball Bridge - Mowbray St - white railings - Wicker Arch
(under) up Peter R St (bombs) - cross
Page -8:
WAINWRIGHT Melrose Devonport
BLOMFIELD Tel. Bureau Wellington
L MARQUAND 78 Terrace Wellington
LLOYD Devonport
SOUTHERLAND Devonport
ISMONGER Epsom
HUTTON Epsom
TRAYES Devonport
JAGGS Stanley Bay
ANDREW Devonport School
CRAWFORD Epsom
YOUNG & CLEARY Hobart, Tasmania
BROCKETT c/o FARRINGTON, Auckland
WRIGHT Wellesley St Jeweller
CLAYTON The Terrace, Wellington
DUNSTAN Evans St, Waihi
DONALD Epsom pupil
Epsom pupils
BETHUNE G/Calliope Rd
RENSHAW
ROPES Te Kopuru, N Wairoa
FROOD G. c/o GRAY Bros c/o MEREDITH
MEREDITH GRETY Bro. Symonds St
DEMPSEY Remuera
MCSWAN
Margery HALL
Uncle Jack
Aunts Jennie and Ruth [rathbone 648]
Page -7:
E YOUNG, "Valma", Cromwell St, Battery Rd, Hobart
E CLEARY, "Fairview", 66 Forest Rd, Hobart
Mr & Mrs WR ALLEN "Goldhurst", 58 Priory Rd, West Hampstead, London
Eric MONTEITH
Page -6:
May BOURKE, Wireless St, Kaitaia, Auckland, NZ
Page -3:
Miss M HALL, 99 Drayton Gardens, S Kensington, London WS
Miss BLOMFIELD tel No 1484, c/ Tele. Bureau, Wellington
Mrs LE MARQUAND?, 73 The Terrace, Wellington or Delivery per favour
Mrs CLAYTON, The Terrace, Wellington
Page -2:
Aunt Ruth: Mrs BABBINGTON, 59 Thompson Rd, Sheffield [mother of Milly: 12.9.16]
Aunt Jennie: Mrs PASHLEY, 94 Grassweld Rd, Sparkhill, Birmingham
[His letter to Vera of 31.10.1916 talks of his visit to her, her husband
and their children LEN, MABEL and OLIVE.
Jennie is a sister of Harry's mother, 647 of
http://freepages.genealogy.rootsweb.com/~kitwithers/rathbone/rathbone.html
Uncle Jack: Mr John James HALL, 99 Drayton Gardens, S. Kensington, London SW
Aunt Sarah Ann: Mrs J LONGWORTH, No. 8 Flaxton Rd, Plumstead Common,
Woolich, England
Miss Nellie DONALD, Queens Av., Epsom, Auckland
[Crossed out: Corp. PR BRAMBLEY, 10th NCO Reserves, Trentham MC
replaced by Lieut. PR BRAMBLEY Was Percy a BROTHER of FLO's husband George?]
Miss Ella BLOMFIELD, c/0 Mrs CLAYTON, The Terrace, Wellington
(or c/o Tele. Bureau, Wellington)
Page -1:
[Stamp] 14 Oct 1915, Auckland Infantry 8th Reinforcements, A Company
12/3343 2nd Batt. Auck. Inf. R, NZEF
D.R. KIRKER, Capt NZGA, Officer Commanding A Company, 8th
Miss Marjery HALL, 99 Drayton Gardens, S Kensington, London SW
---------------------------------------------------------------------
[P26 Photo of REG HALL from his daughter June McArthy.]
[P27 Memorial card and photo from June McArthy:]
"In Loving Memory of Lieut. HF HALL ..."
=======================================================================
APPENDIX 1: SHIPS HEREIN
ASCANIA 9000 tonner 15.4.1916
the OTAGO 20.7.1916
the SOCOTRA - saw the broken halves 4.8.1916
TOFUA
HMTS WILLOCHRA
=======================================================================
APPENDIX 2: PLACES HEREIN
ADEN 14.12.1915
AFRICA The Cape & Iocotra? Island 13.12.1915
AUSTRALIA
Albany 1915 - King River
Tasmania: Hobart 1915
BELGIUM Messines where Harry was killed in action 9.6.1917
CORSICA 15.4.1916
ENGLAND
Bath 12.9.1916
Bristol 12.9.1916
Birmingham 12.9.1916
Chitterne [Chiltern?], a small old village. We are in Wiltshire 14.8.1916
Codford on Salisbury Plains 14-26.8.1916
Derby 4.10.1916
Folkestone 10.8.1916
Lichfield Cadet School, Whittington Barracks, Staffordshire 20.8.1916 12.9.1916
31.10.1916
London 27.4.1916 10-19.8.1916 12.9.1916 9.10.1916 23.11.1916 19.12.1916
Sheffield 4&15.10.1916 where Harry's parents lived before moving to NZ in 1878
Tamworth? 23.11.1916
EGYPT
Albury Hills p -8
Alexandria 9.4.1916
Cairo 22.12.1915-10.2.1916
Helmich Camp 20.2.1916
Heliopolis 24.12.1915-4.3.1916
Ismalia irrigation canal 18.1.1916-14.3.1916
Moascar on the African side of the Suez Canal 20.3.1916-9.4.1916
Nile 26.12.1915-8.2.1916
the Sphinx 1.1.1916
Suez 18.12.1915-14.3.1916
Tel El Kiker 12.3.1916
Zeitoun Camp 22.12.1915-20.2.1916
Wazza 26.12.1915
FRANCE
Armentieres 11.5-19.6.1916
Bleu/Bleys? & Boeyham? 5-11.5.1916
Boulogne 10.8.1916
Camois 25.7.1916
Etaples 17.7-7.8.1916
Flanders 18.4.1916
Franc, a peaceful village 20.7.1916
Hauphin/Houphines 19.6.1916 living in a cellar, p -8
Lady Angela's home on the English Channel 20.7.1916
Lyons 18.4.1916
Marseilles 9 & 18.4.1916
Paris & Eiffel Tower 18.4.1916
Paris de Plage 20.7.1916-4.8.1916
Peleu p -8
Rebecq 18.4.1916
Rhone River 18.4.1916
S.78 trench p -8
Steenwerck 17.7.1916
MALTA 15.4.1916
NEW ZEALAND
Auckland: Beaconsfield St, Devonport (Chiltenham Beach;"Lebu", Dominion Road),
Edendale, Epsom School, Grafton School, Purewa Cemetery, Remuera,
Training College
Featherston 1915
Foveaux Strait 1915
Greytown 1915
Lyttleton 1915
Tauherenikau Military Camp 1915
Trentham Military Camp 1915
Wellington 1915
PANTOBERE ISLAND, Mediteranean 15.4.1916
SARDINIA 15.4.1916
=======================================================================
APPENDIX 3: NAMES & SURNAMES HEREIN (c141)
References to No 2 platoon are from its autograph sheet: see 10.2.1916.
3521 A G AFAAG No 2 platoon
AINSLIE G, Mrs. She is G MCKENZIE's aunt. 11.9.15
ALDERMAN Colonel. 9th April 1916.
ALLEN J, Minister of Defence - undated: MESSAGES TO THE NEW ZEALAND TROOPS
ALLEN Mr & Mrs WR,"Goldhurst",58 Priory Rd,West Hampstead,London; p -7 of diary
ANDERSON Tom, Bowling Av., Epsom
ANDREW Devonport School on p -8 of diary
ARMITAGE Corporal/Captain 5.4.1916, 15.5.1916, sketch [P19] 3.6.1916, 4.6.1916,
29.6.1916, 11.7.1916; 3216 GCW ARMSTRONG Lieut. No 2 platoon;
Heard H. ARMITAGE had been killed.- Sept 12th 1916
ARMSTRONG Captain; 11.7.1916;
ASKEW Jim February 20th 1916, husband of his aunt Laura
3245 L? BAKER No 2 platoon
BABBINGTON [Ruth Ann/Annie "Toby" BABINGTON nee RATHBONE, 648 at
http://freepages.genealogy.rootsweb.com/~kitwithers/rathbone/rathbone.html On p -2:
Aunt Ruth: Mrs BABBINGTON, 59 Thompson Rd, Sheffield [mother of Milly: 23.6 &
12.9.16] June 26th 1916, August 19th 1916, Sept 12th 1916, Oct 4 & 15 1916,
Dec. 10th 1916, Feb 18th 1917; diary p -8.
3261 C BERTELSEN No 2 platoon
BASHLEY Ruth 10.12.1916 [?6473 Mabel Ruth PASHLEY b1899 of
http://freepages.genealogy.rootsweb.com/~kitwithers/rathbone/rathbone.html]
BETHUNE G/Calliope Rd on p -8 of diary
BILKEY Monte Dec. 24th 1915
BIRDWOOD General Jan. 29th 1916
3254 DC BLACK No 2 platoon
BLOMFIELD Ella, tel No 1484, Telegraph Bureau/ Molesworth St, Wellington;
Nov 13th. 1915,Nov. 15th 1915;
p -2, -3, -8: c/0 Mrs CLAYTON, The Terrace, Wellington
BOURKE May, Wireless St, Kaitaia, Auckland, NZ; on p -6 of diary
3286 AJ BOWLEY No 2 platoon
3259 HW BOYNE Sergt. No 2 platoon
BRAITHWAITE General May 11th 1916
BRAMBLEY George husband of his aunt Flo 43 in
http://freepages.genealogy.rootsweb.com/~kitwithers/hall/hall.html Nov 27 1916,9.12.1916,
April 4th 1917; p -2 of diary
BRAMBLEY Lieut. Percy Richard, George's brother;13.11.1915;March 30th 1917;
April 4th 1917; p -2 of diary
BROADY [February] 8th 1916
BROCKETT c/o FARRINGTON, Auckland; on p -8 of diary
BROWN George was shot ... - May 22nd 1916; 3274 GW BROWN No 2 platoon
BUDD Eddy is in Auckland ... Nov. 4th 1915
3271 WS BULL No 2 platoon
3270 FP BURTON No 2 platoon
CALTMAN? Cyril has been killed. Sept. 2th 1916
CANNA Mrs in London (Mrs LUNN's sister) 9.12.1916
3279 CH CARSON No 2 platoon
CLAYTON Mrs; Nov. 15th 1915; The Terrace, Wellington on p -8 of diary
CLEARY Miss E, "Fairview", 66 Forest Rd, Hobart, Tasmania; on p -7,-8 of diary
20th Nov. 1915
CONN Pat
3287 JA COWLEY No 2 platoon
CRAIG Sgt Jimmy C of Auckland; 3233 J CRAIG Plat. Sergt. No 2 platoon;
[photo P6], Nov. 27th 1915, 30.12.1915, 13.1.1916, 1.2.1916, 2.2.1916,
8.2.1916, 10.2.1916,
CRAWFORD Sq., Epsom on p -8 of diary; July 11th 1916
3288 A CROFT No 2 platoon
DAVIES Moris January 13th 1916; 3293 ML DAVIES Corpl. No 2 platoon
DEMPSEY Remuera; on p -8 of diary
3295 S DEVESCH No 2 platoon
DICKINS May 22nd 1916
DONALD Epsom pupil; Miss Nellie DONALD, Queens Av., Epsom, Auckland on p -2 &
p -8 of diary
DUNSTAN Evans St, Waihi on p -8 of diary
3223 N DURHAM Sergt. No 2 platoon
3310 CL EARL No 2 platoon
KA ECHACK? censor 2.2.1916
EMSLEY? Mrs (LUNN's sister) 9.12.1916
ENGLISH Mick Oct 26th 1915, 26.12.1915; 3313 A ENGLISH No 2 platoon
FARRAR James married his aunt Sylvia
FARRINGTON [P13]: Photo of 3 of them in uniform on camels
3323 A FAWSON No 2 platoon
FORDHAM Roy 11.9.1915, 24.12.1915
FROOD G. c/o GRAY Bros c/o MEREDITH; on p -8 of diary
3328 AM GILL No 2 platoon
3527 ROY GHUMMERCK No 2 platoon
3330 HM GIRROS No 2 platoon
GRAVE JP's Manuf. Off. on p -9
GREEN F August 18th 1916
GREY Alan has been hit by shrapnel in the eye and is going blind. 24.12.1915
HADDNO 26.12.1915
3340 HB HADDOW No 2 platoon
HAIG Sir Douglas April 27th 1916
HALL Evelyn, Florence, Harry Frederick 3343 HF HALL Corpl. No 2 platoon,
Henry, John, Laura, Leslie, Marjorie/Marjery, Reginald, Sylvia, Vera
HANNAH Pat July 25th 1916, August 7th 1916, August 18th 1916
HARCOURT [April] 5th 1916, sketch [P19] 3.6.1916, 4.6.1916,
HARRIS Sept. 2th 1916
3359 PM HOBSON No 2 platoon ... blown to pieces 9th 1916 (July)
3362 HE HOUSTON No 2 platoon
HURSTER? ... blown to pieces 9th 1916 (July)
HUTTON Epsom on p -8 of diary
ISMONGER Epsom on p -8 of diary
3526 TC JACKAY? No 2 platoon
JAGGS Stanley Bay on p -8 of diary
CJ JONKAS No 2 platoon
JOYCE Corporal was killed - June 26th 1916
3065 C KELLY No 2 platoon
3377 HM KENNEDY No 2 platoon
KIRKER D.R. Captain 20.2.1916, 14.3.1916; NZGA,Officer Commanding A Company,
8th Reinforcements (on p -1)
KITCHENER Earl -[P2] undated: MESSAGES TO THE NEW ZEALAND TROOPS
LACITY 26.12.1915
LADY ANGELA's home in France July 25th 1916
3478 SJ LAVADERSON No 2 platoon
3385 JW LAWSON No 2 platoon
LE MARQUAUD/MARQUAND? Mrs, 73 The Terrace, Wellington or Delivery per favour;
15.11.1915, p-3 & -8 of diary; see also MARQUAND L
3383 CP LEAITY No 2 platoon
LLOYD Connie 15.11.1915, 2.2.1916; p -8 9 Burrows Rd, Devonport
3387 SJS LOCK Corpl. No 2 platoon
LONG ... blown to pieces 9.7.1916
LONGWORTH, No. 8 Flaxton Rd, Plumstead Common, Woolich, England; Aunt Sarah Ann
p -2 of diary; she is 1 in
http://freepages.genealogy.rootsweb.com/~kitwithers/hall/hall.html
3392 J LOWTHERN No 2 platoon
LUNN 3395 LV LUNN No 2 platoon 11.9.1915, 1.2.1916 ;
Jerry LUNN 1.2.1916, 29.6.1916 in the hospital suffering from nerves;
Vera 31.10.11916; see also CANNA, EMSLEY
MACK George July 11th 1916 is in hospital - shell .. in arm and shoulder,
2.12.1916, [P13]: Photo of 3 of them in uniform on camels;
Ian 20.8.1916; Hon. Tom 26.8.1916;
MACKENZIE George 11.9.1915, 4.4.1917; 3404 G MACKENZIE L/C No 2 platoon
MACKENZIE Ian
MARQUAND L, 78 Terrace Wellington on p -8 of diary; see also LE MARQUAUD
3415 C MASON No 2 platoon
3417 EC MATTHEWS No 2 platoon
MCLEOD Meryl
MCSWAN 5.5.1916, p -8
MELKEY Monty 13.1.1916
MEREDITH GRETY Bro. Symonds St; on p -8 of diary
3421 FS METTAM No 2 platoon
MILLS ... blown to pieces 9th 1916 (July)
MONTEITH Eric; on p -7 of diary
MOORE 26.12.1915; 3426 LM MOORE No 2 platoon; 3427 RC MOORE No 2 platoon
3429 VM MORRIN No 2 platoon
3431 CL MOUNCE No 2 platoon
MURDOCH 26.12.1915
MURRAY Major General 5.4.1916 in charge of forces in Egypt
3437 JACK E OAKDEN
PACKLEY Ruth 9.12.1916
PASHLEY Mrs,Aunt Jennie, 94 Grassweld Rd, Sparkhill, Birmingham; p -2 of diary
She is 647 of
http://freepages.genealogy.rootsweb.com/~kitwithers/rathbone/rathbone.html
3440 JW PATTERSON No 2 platoon
PHILLIPSON 11.7.1916
POPE Charles Dec. 24th 1915
POTTER Jack Dec. 24th 1915
3448 WA PRINCE No 2 platoon
PRINCE OF WALES 20.3.1916 "he is only a boy."
3449 WA PROICE No 2 platoon
PROSSER Bert 1.2.1916, 2.2.1916
QUANTON 18.8.1916
RATHBONE Laura - Harry's mother's maiden name.
RENSHAW May 19-20.6.1916, p -8
RICE Steve 4.3.1916
RICHARDSON General 26.8.1916
ROBERTS Arthur 25.4.1916
ROBERTS Field-Marshal - undated: [P2] MESSAGES TO THE NEW ZEALAND TROOPS
3458 JJ ROBERTSON No 2 platoon
ROPER C an orderly room sgt 24.112.1915; 3467 G ROPER No 2 platoon
ROPES Te Kopuru, N Wairoa; on p -8 of diary
ROSS Major 29.1.1916
RUSSELL General July 11th 1916
RUSSELL Rex married to his sister Vera: 10.12.1916,
SAISSONS/SEISONS Tom 13 & 29.1.1916,
3468 JJ SALMON No 2 platoon
SAUNDERS Major 29.1.1916
SHARPLES Rona 4.11.1915
7/2323 LJ SHAW No 2 platoon
SIMPSON Frank 11.9.1915
SCHOFIELD Colonel 20.11.1915
SMALL stopped it in the thigh 8.6.1916
SUTHERLAND Janet, Domain St, Devonport, Auckland 29.3.1916, p -8
TAYLOR - our P. Off. [patrol officer?] was wounded over the temple. 9.7.1916
THOMAS F Lieut. from Epsom 14.3.1916, 14.4.1916, 9 & 11.7.1916
3318 HS TILE No 2 platoon
TRAYES Ernest, Hix 4.11.1915, Eve [& Peggy] 9.12.1916
TURNER Arch 15/10/16, 4.4.1917;
TURPIN Dick 29.6.1916; 3496 EJ TURPIN No 2 platoon
UTTING, Shipping Agent, Ferry Buildings, Auckland 11.9.1915
WAINWRIGHT Melrose Devonport p -8 of diary
WARNINGTON 15.10.1916
WARRINGTON Frank, Bed 17, Ward 4, NZ General Hospital, Walton on Thames p -8;
19.6.1916, 9.10.1916
WHEELER doctor on board 15.11.1915
WHITE is now our c.o. 20.2.1916
3506 T WHITFIELD No 2 platoon
3509 R WIEDENBOHN No 2 platoon; 3510 G WIEDENBOHN No 2 platoon
3516 EH WOODS No 2 platoon
3518 P WOONTON No 2 platoon
WRIGHT George 15.10.1916; Wellesley St Jeweller on p -8 of diary
YATES A received an awful wound 8.6.1916
YOUNG Miss E, "Valma", Cromwell St,Battery Rd,Hobart; p -7 of diary, 20.11.1915
=======================================================================
Kay TRAYES [3222-sp] provided the following from the Commonwealth War Graves
Commission at http://www.cwgc.org/cwgcinternet/search.aspx
In memory of 2nd Lieutenant Harry Frederick HALL, 12/3343, 2nd Battalion,
Auckland Regt, NZEF who died aged 31 on Saturday 9.6.1917 ... son of Henry
and LE HALL of 71 Park Rd, Auckland. Native of Remuera, Auckland. Assistant
master, Epsom School. Remembered with honour, Messines Ridge (NZ) Memorial
to the Missing, Mesen, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium ... 9.5km S of Ieper town
centre on the Niuwkerekestraat, a road from the Rijselseweg, N365 which
connects Iaper to Wijtschate, Mesen and on to Armentieres. ... The NZ
Division spent the winter of 1916-17 on the Lys, within sight of Messines ...
http://www.rootsweb.com/~ausnzwwi/ (31 & 71 should be 29 & 79.)
A site on Australian and New Zealand WW1 soldiers is
www.rootsweb.com/~ausnzwwi/
Another WW1 site is http://www.pitt.edu/~pugachev/greatwar/ww1.html
These photos of the Devonport War Memorial & his name "HALL HF"
were taken on Anzac Day 2002. "Our poppy is closest to Harry's
name." The statue of the soldier looks out to the harbour.
(Also on another side of the cenotaph is an unrelated HJ HALL.)
Geoff [381] has a photo of his mother Laura marked "This photo of Mum was
sent to Harry ... when he was killed it was ..." Geoff also has by? NT BACON 4
photos on the Thames?: 1 of Jack in uniform, another of Jack [6] & wife & Harry
[35]. Also postcard (from Harry or Jack?) "84 Cairo - The mosque on the
Mokattam -LL".
The Online Cenotaph at Auckland Museum gives this link to Harry
http://www.aucklandmuseum.com/war-memorial/online-cenotaph/
lists these memorials for him:
Messines Ridge (New Zealand) Memorial, Messines Ridge British Cemetery, Belgium AWMM
Devonport War Memorial, Devonport, Auckland, New Zealand AWMM
Roll of Honour, Holy Trinity (Anglican) Church, 20 Church Street, Devonport, Auckland
Some Kiwis in WW1 - but I dont see Harry in it:
The Clevedon Museum has records and photos of Harry and also of Edward HANTON. This photo by KT shows the cairn of stones from Gallipoli
unveiled .4.2005 in Auckland Domain:
This photo by KT shows his name in the Hall of Memories,
Auckland War Memorial Museum.
June MCCARTHY [ID 361 on the HALL tree] has a photo inscribed by him "Your Harry 22.4.1915 To Dad"; a photo of Harry? at Te Kopuru Match (tennis?) 1911-12,
& a tennis photo of him next to Basil ROSE marked "Your old pal Harry HALL".
==========================================================================
ftree/hall/harry_to_vera.txt
First edition of 8 copies .12.1999 to 4112 CG, 4222 JG, 442 VT, RJSW, 4212 EN,
4313 SR, 4321 AT, me;
Second edition 30.4.2002 of 10 copies: 2 to the Legal Deposit Office.