WW1 Arthur Hobbs

Arthur Hobbs 1892-1973

Arthur was born 1st January 1892 to parents Thomas and Martha Hobbs. Martha originally came from Dorset. All Saints Church register records Arthur was baptised on the 7th February 1892 by Parish priest C. H. Whitehead from Norden Diocese, Rochdale near Manchester. Astley Roberts was the current vicar during that time and was absent for a short period.

The family lived at 1 Albion Terrace as described in the 1901 census. Other family members listed were, Walter 24 years, Thomas 23 years , Florence 11 years and Frank 7 years. The 1911 census also reveals two other sisters Amy 28 years and Emily 26 years. By 1911 the homes in New Road originally identified by individual terrace names were now numbered as a road. Arthur's family home was now numbered as 86 New Road.

Arthur's father was employed at the John Dickinson paper mill in Croxley Green as an engine driver. The mill used fireless engines that ran on steam produced in the mill. The sparks from a normal engine could have been problematic with all the combustible paper etc on site. Arthur and his brother Frank were also at the mill as labourers.

Arthur was sent to France as a rifleman in the Kings Royal Rifles, 'A' Company.

Whilst there he was injured during one of the battles. The identifying label from his wounds was saved by the family. This shows he was in a Red Cross hospital at Etaples and was being transferred to a hospital ship. The date is 29th February 1916 (leap year) The reverse of the label indicates he was wounded in the right upper arm, right leg and both feet (severe)

Arthur, recovered from his wounds and continued to stay in France. During 1918 he sent a postcard from France dated July 1918, as well as a Christmas card the same year to his family in Croxley Green.

When Arthur returned home in 1919 he married Elizabeth Mary Parsons (born 7th November 1892) the same year as Arthur who also lived in the village. She worked for some time at The Grove, The Green, for Miss Dugdale as a housemaid. This house had many name changes from The Pavilion when it was first built by Miss Bentley, then The Grove and was lastly renamed Dugdales when Miss Dugdale occupied the house. It has in recent years been converted into individual apartments.

Arthur returned to work at the mill but also joined the Hertfordshire Constabulary as a Special Reserve Constable. During the 1926 General Strike he was active in this capacity and received acknowledgement from the Chief Constable for Hertfordshire for his services, particularly during May.

Arthur and Elizabeth lived at 86 New Road and had three children, Frank, Arthur and Margaret. He was an active member of All Saints Church Council.

Arthur continued to be employed at the paper mill until he retired. Arthur passed away aged 81 years in 1973 and Elizabeth lived to celebrate her 100th birthday.