THE short life of Harlow resident, Thomas Lewis as read by Little Parndon councillor, Chris Vince.

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

Never Forget.

Thomas Lewis

Thomas’ parents were John Lewis, born in Netteswell in c.1840 and Mary Ann Wood, also born in Netteswell in c.1854. They married in Harlow in 18761 and Thomas Lewis was born in Great Parndon in 18952. John and Mary had 10 children, one of whom died in infancy.

The 1891 census shows the family residing in Hare Street, near a property called Canons. The 1901 census shows that Thomas was still living in Hare Street. John’s occupation was recorded as a farm worker. Shortly after the census, Thomas’ father John died aged 60. Thomas’ mother Mary remarried Walter Bishop, who was 20 years her junior. The 1911 census shows Thomas living in Hare Street Green, Great Parndon with his mother, step-father and siblings; Ada, James, John, Harriet, Albert, Walter, Ann and Alice. Thomas was working as a farm labourer.

Private Thomas Lewis, 25653, enlisted at Warley and joined The 1st Battalion of The Bedfordshire Regiment. The Regiment was involved in the Battle of the Somme, specifically in the attack on High Wood on 20 August 1916 and the capture of Falfemont Farm between 3 and 6 September 1916. Thomas died of his wounds on 13 September 1916 and is buried in St Sever Cemetery, Rouen, France. Plot B, row 21, grave 35. Register Index Number Fr.145.