THE short life of Harlow resident, Thomas Baldock as read by Passmores Academy Principal, Vic Goddard.

This project has been brought to you by the Harlow Council Civic Fund and HTS Ltd.

Never Forget.

Thomas’ parents were George Henry Baldock, born in Sawbridgeworth in c.1860 and Harriett Jeans, born in Bramfield in c.1860. George and Harriett married in High Wych on 1 October 18811. Thomas William Baldock was born in High Wych in 18862.

The 1891 census shows Thomas living at The Hand and Crown Public House in High Wych where his father George was a publican. He was living with his parents and siblings Eleanor, George and Laura.

George and Harriet had two further children before George died in 18913 aged thirty-six. Harriet later remarried to William Debenham, an agricultural labourer in late 18984.

The 1901 census shows Thomas living with his mother and step-father near The White Horse Public House in Potter Street. Harriet and William had a child, Annie, Thomas’ half-sister. The 1911 census shows Thomas still residing with his mother in three rooms in Potter Street.

Private Thomas William Baldock, 20830, enlisted at Warley and served with the 1st Battalion of The East Sussex Regiment. The regiment fought in The Battle of the Somme and distinguished itself at The Battle of Morval, which took place between 25 and 28 September 1916. Thomas was killed in action on the first day of the battle on 25 September 1916, aged 30. He is commemorated on the Thiepval Memorial to the Missing, France. Pier 6B, face 6C. Register Index Number MR21.