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The first bantam battalions were recruited in Birkenhead by Alfred Bigland. Unfortunately, they needed somewhere to occupy for training purposes and that meant the closure of Mersey Park Primary School during the war years.Therefore, as this notice to parents states the children had to attend afternoon sessions from 1:30pm to 5pm at Woodchurch Road School until further notice.
We have been sent this lovely photograph and information by Carolyn Gander (nee Allsopp). “Robert Humphrey Emslie born 29th August 1897. Enlisted 11th November 1915 and was mobilised 3rd May 1916. WW1 as Acting Bombadier with the Royal Field Artillery, 3rd West Lancashire Brigade. He was working at Lever Brother’s factory in Port Sunlight when he enlisted.
Robert, known as Bobby, was discharged from service on 13th February 1917 as no longer fit for active service. He had developed TB. He died on 25th February 1917 aged only 19 years.
He was my Grandma’s favourite brother and my Dad was named Robert Leslie in his honour. I was told that Grandma could never say Bobby’s name as it upset her too much, so Dad was always known by his middle name of Leslie/ Les.
Bobby is remembered on Port Sunlight War Memorial and also on the Cenotaph in Birkenhead’s Hamilton Square, as well as the plaque at Mersey Park School.”
We think that this photograph maybe from the early 1900′s. Unfortunately we have no information about this picture. If you can add any information or recognise anyone, please contact the school as we would love to fill in some of the gaps.
We think this photograph was taken around 1910, although we are unsure of exact dates and are unable to name anyone in this picture. Recognise anyone? Please let us know!
We think this was probably around the same time. We know that this is a photograph of class IX and believe Dora Betty is the little girl on the second row, second from the right. If you have more information on this photograph please let us know!
Here is another picture from around that time. We think the little boy third from the left, on the front row is Sidney Birchall. If you recognise anyone else in this photograph, or have any further information about this picture, then please let us know!
Certificate awarded to Dora Beatty, on 31st July 1914, for good attendance and general good conduct for two years.
Certificate awarded to Dora Beatty, 31st July 1915, for good attendance and general good conduct for three years.
Certificate awarded to Mary Jones, 31st July 1915, for general good progress.
Certificate awarded to Dora Beatty, 31st July 1916, for good attendance and general good conduct for four years.
Certificate awarded to Mary Jones, 31st July 1916, for general progress and cookery.
