The Fallen of WW1

Henry “Harry” Samuel Ayton

HEAD of Humanities at Burnt Mill Academy Trust, Lee Bradbury reads the biography of Henry Ayton.

Thank you to the Harlow Council Civic Fund and HTS.

Henry “Harry” Samuel Ayton
Henry’s parents were Richard Ayton, born in Itteringham, Norfolk in 18421 and Eliza Bramble, born in Oulton in 18432. They married in Itteringham in 18623 and Henry Ayton was born in Itteringham, Norfolk in early 18764.
The 1881 census shows Henry residing in Itteringham, Norfolk with his parents and siblings; Elijah, Sophia, Louisa, George and Elizabeth. Richard was working as a farm labourer. Henry’s father died in 1882 at the age of 405.
The 1891 census shows Henry residing in The Street, Itteringham. He was living with his widowed mother and siblings George and Elizabeth. Henry was working as a miller’s assistant. The 1901 census shows Henry living at The Bakers Row, Itteringham where he was working as
a Miller. He is listed as the head of the household. Living with him was his mother and sister Ethel. The 1911 census shows Henry boarding in Netteswell, Harlow in Spring Street, aged 35. He was working as a stoneman in the local flour mill.
Private Henry Samuel Ayton, 24917, enlisted in Epping and joined The 1st Battalion of The Northampton Regiment. Henry fought in the Battles of Bazentin Ridge and Poziers Ridge, both part of The Battle of the Somme and died of his wounds on 25 August 1916 at the age of 40. Henry is buried in Etaples Military Cemetery, Etaples, France. Plot 10, row a, grave 4a. Register Index Number Fr.40. Henry’s name was added to the memorial after the cross at Netteswell was erected. This may have been due to the fact that Henry had not been born in the parish.