Penryn at the time of the First World War
The First World War affected every area of life at home. No-one escaped. In 1914 Britain faced its biggest threat for nearly 1,000 years and was a land gripped by fear of invasion. Britain had not fought a war in Europe for a century and the Germans had an army of over 2 million soldiers. The Prime Minister, Herbert Asquith, wept.
The call to arms was led by Lord Kitchener. He knew we could only win by creating a massive new army. All able bodied men over 5′ 3″ were pressed to volunteer and once war was declared on 4th August, 20,000 men volunteered every day, with 33,000 joining on 3rd September, 1914 alone. Though there were a minority who were conscientious objectors, most men joined up for King and Country and a wish to protect their families and homes. This pattern was to continue, with more volunteers joining up and as the years went by younger men were Called to the Colours. But casualties were a-plenty. Postmen and post boys in Scotland threw in their jobs because they could no longer stand being the bearers of bad news. Life was also difficult for the 50,000 or so German immigrants who came to Britain before the War.
At home everyone did their bit and older men became special constables. There were road blocks by day and night with people on look-out, and Boy Scouts were trained in first aid. Lights were darkened and in London Big Ben was silenced. Daylight Saving was introduced for the first time to help people see their way around. Women took up a whole variety of jobs they had never undertaken before, including the production of munitions and working the land. But the War did hit Britain physically. In Hartlepool, County Durham, on December 16th, 1914 there were flashes of light from ships several miles out to sea. Then, German shell fragments struck at Hartlepool where homes were attacked and destroyed. This was the first major attack of Britain since 1066. Three children were killed by German shells as they ran away in fright. Their mother’s leg was blown off. In total, five hundred were wounded and 152 killed, the eldest 56 and the youngest 6 months. Whitby and Scarborough were also shelled that day with another 21 civilians killed. The streets of Scarborough were barricaded and the attacks were considered a war crime and atrocity. Civilians now knew they were caught up in mortal danger.
By early 1915 the wounded were arriving home in their tens of thousands and the country was calling upon soldiers from across the British Empire. Four thousand injured Indians were treated at the Royal Pavilion at Brighton, nursed by white women. By the Spring of 1915 over one and a half million men had volunteered to fight, many hoping and expecting the war to be over by Christmas.
In 1917 London was bombed by the Zeppelins. Seventy-two bombs killed 162 civilians and this was the most disastrous air raid of the war. At Poplar a school was hit killing sixteen 5-year-olds, a 12 year old boy and a 13 year old girl.
Many British Merchant ships and fishing craft were attacked by German U boats and sunk, destroying food and other supplies. In 1917, 46 thousand tons of meat was sunk and between February and June that year, 85 tons of sugar. Flour and wheat were also in short supply. Very soon, Britain would be unable to feed herself. There was a need to grow much more food or starve. There were 84 thousand disabled soldiers to feed and 30 thousand German prisoners of war, and over a quarter of a million children. By 1918 over 7 million extra acres had been dug to grow extra food but this was nothing like enough to make up for the thousands of tons being sent to the bottom of the sea by German U boats. There was “allotmentitis” fever whereby all kinds of food were grown. In May 1917 a Royal proclamation told men and women of our realm to be frugal and richer people were to leave bread for the poor because they could afford other kinds of food. A “Win the War” cook book was produced. Women worked in agriculture undertaking tasks normally done by men, and the Women’s Institute was formed for women to meet together making jams and other preserves. In the Autumn of 1917 shortages led to huge queues and the looting of shops (not in Cornwall but other parts of the country). From January 1918 one person’s weekly ration was 15 oz meat, 5 oz bacon, 4 oz margarine, 8 oz sugar. However, the rationing, allotments and the system of convoys to protect merchant ships meant that the queues disappeared and starvation was kept at bay.
In November 1917 a brand new invention was developed with the enthusiastic support of Winston Churchill in the War Office – The Tank. On the War Fields this terrified the Germans who threw their hands in the air and begged for mercy. Back home a “Tank Bank” was started – a collection of money for the production of more tanks, and £300 million was quickly realised (£11 billion in today’s money). At the same time, the government urged a greater production of munitions in a bid to end the war, and to secure Peace. Striking men returned to work and there was a surge in the production of all resources to assist with the war. America joined the War and her Forces arrived in Europe. These factors, together with the British campaign in the Near East leading to the defeat of Germany’s allies Turkey and Bulgaria helped to end the war. With an attack in the rear pending, the German army commanders realised they could no longer win and urged their government to ask for an armistice.
The above are notes taken from the fascinating BBC TV series about the First World War presented by Jeremy Paxton in 2014. The following information was gathered from The Penryn Advertiser, the local newspaper of the day held in the Penryn Museum.
All items in the Penryn Advertiser reporting the names of people who contributed to the war effort are reproduced in this document.
EXCITEMENT AND APPREHENSION AS WAR IS DECLARED
The Penryn Advertiser – 7th August, 1914
War Clouds Break – England Declares War on Germany
On Wednesday morning (4th August) we learnt that the war cloud had burst . . . The Government has declared that a state of war exists between Great Britain and Germany, as from 11.00 pm on Tuesday night.
The war now assumes more magnitude. In addition to Russia, Germany has Great Britain, France and Belgium on her hands, while Austria, Germany’s ally, has Serbia and others of the Balkan States against her.
The King’s message to Senior Naval Officers and all stations outside the home waters is:
“At this grave moment in our national history, I send to you and through you, to the officers and men of the Fleet of which you have assumed the command, the assurance of my confidence that under your direction they will revive and renew the old glories of the Royal Navy, and prove once again the sure shield of Britain and of her Empire in the hour of trial. George R.I. “
The Penryn Advertiser – August 7th, 1914
FIRING OF GUN CAUSES EXCITEMENT
Great military activity continues at Falmouth, and fresh troops are arriving in the companies of Cornwall R.G.A. Territorials, the local company of this force being previously taken up duty at Pendennis Castle. Practically all the county Territorials are at the Castle and St. Anthony, and the activity is causing a great deal of interest, if not excitement. There was certainly a good deal of excitement on Tuesday night, when the firing of a gun was heard. It was stated that the German liners in the harbour were making an attempt to get out, and a warning gun had been fired, but it was ascertained that the gun was fired over the bows of a coasting vessel which failed to answer the signals. The two liners remained in the Carrick Roads, and on Wednesday their wireless apparatus were dismantled, and the two captains were formerly arrested by the Customs authorities.
On Wednesday morning the interest of civilians was occupied in watching the progress of horses to the Castle. The district was scoured, and animals in great numbers were commandeered, so that in the morning at Falmouth scarcely a cab horse could be found, the taxis having a complete monopoly.
At Penryn one horse and cab remained. At the ancient borough an incident occurred which caused a deal of amusement to other than those immediately concerned. A party of 56 belonging to Breage Wesleyan Band of Hope were driving to Falmouth for an outing. Just after entering Penryn the drivers of the vehicles heard of the commandeering of horses and declined to proceed further, and so the party were obliged to walk the remainder of the distance or take the motor ‘buses to Falmouth. The effect of the Government’s taking of horses was seen at Falmouth in the case of a baker’s cart going on its rounds attached to a small motor car, while a donkey was requisitioned to convey forage to the Castle.
The tugs Victor, Triton, and the Marion, the St. Mawes steamship Alexandra, and Mr. Morrison’s motor boat were requisitioned by the Government for service.
On Tuesday night the Mayor of Falmouth (Mr. A. Chard) received the following telegram from Mr. C. S. Goldman, M.P. for the United Borough :–
If in this crisis you think I can do anything here by consultation or action to assist, please call on me unhesitatingly.
The hon. member arrived at Falmouth on Wednesday, in response to the order of notification of the Territorials, and took up his duties at Pendennis as the officer commanding the local company of R.G.A. Territorials.
On Wednesday a train of eleven trucks containing war material arrived at Falmouth.
Grocers of the town held a meeting on Tuesday night, and decided that in regard to prices they would follow the markets, and not to allow any person to purchase several quantities of provisions.
The Penryn Advertiser – August 7th, 1914
SENSATIONAL ARREST AT FALMOUTH
GERMAN TRADESMAN SUSPECTED
A sensation was caused at Falmouth on Wednesday when it became known that a German, Johnn Engel, ship chandler, of the Quay, Falmouth, was charged on suspicion at the police court before Mr. J. H. Lake with having committed an offence against the Official Secrets Act, 1911.
The accused was arrested during the morning by Supt. Nicholls on the instructions of the Chief Constable (Major Protheroe Smith), and was remanded for eight days, being taken to Bodmin Prison.
Engel, who is a retired lieutenant from the German Navy has been carrying on business at the Quay for a number of years. He has one son, who served his apprenticeship with Messrs. Cox and Co., of the Foundry, who is an artificer in the English Navy, and another son in the Canadian Mounted Police. Accused speaks English fluently, and is a recognised authority on maritime matters. He is a well-built man, with a long bushy beard, and stands about 6 ft. high.
The captains of 2 German liners in the Carrick Roads were arrested and they, with all other Germans in the area were incarcerated at the Workhouse at Union Corner. Germans were known as “Aliens”.
The Penryn Advertiser – August 7th, 1915
German Arrested at Falmouth.
A second-class passenger who was travelling under the name of “Alfred Geysell,” a “Swiss” subject, was arrested at Falmouth on Saturday on board the S.S. Rotterdam, bound from New York to Rotterdam. On being questioned he admitted that he was Carl Reinhard, a German subject, travelling with a false passport. He was yesterday brought up on remand at the Falmouth Police Court and sentenced to six months with hard labour.
The Penryn Advertiser – August 7th, 1914
LINERS SEIZED AT FALMOUTH. H.M.S. DIANA’S CAPTURE.
The Hamburg-American liners Kronprinzessin Cecilie and Prinz Adalbert, now lying in Falmouth Harbour, have been seized by the British Government.
H.M.S. Diana brought into Falmouth yesterday the German three-masted schooner Else from Rio Grande, with hides.
The German steamer Marie Glesel, which left Barrow on Wednesday, has been brought into Greenock, having been captured off the Isle of Man by a British warship.
The passengers and crews of the German liners at Falmouth were to have been landed yesterday, and in the afternoon the Customs officers and fifty Territorials went on board. But, owing to the difficulty of getting the crews to do anything, except on the instructions of their own officers, there were no means of handling the luggage of the passengers, and, therefore, all remained on board for the night. The Territorials were left there, being distributed on the two boats, and having fixed boxed bayonets and 100 rounds of ammunition each.
The local authorities had been given notice to make all possible arrangements for the passengers on shore, and the destitute, about fifty, to be sent to the workhouse.
Steps will be taken this morning to land the passengers and crews. The latter will be looked after by the local German Consul (Mr. Barclay Fox).
Several passengers of the Booth liner Adian were landed with a view to their returning to Liverpool.
The port of Falmouth was to continue to play an important role throughout the War especially as Penzance and Falmouth were the first ports of call from the West.
The Penryn Advertiser – August 14th, 1914
500 Destitute Aliens at Falmouth.
At Falmouth, on Thursday last, large crowds of people assembled at the Quay and in the vicinity of the Docks in expectation of seeing the passengers and crews of the German liners Kromprinzessin Cecilie and Prinz Adalbert land. Later it became known that no landing would take place. In the afternoon a body of Territorials under Capt. George Read (Mayor of Penryn) and Lieut. Thomas, of Helston, were conveyed to the liners on the tug Victor, the Customs officials accompanying them. The intention was that the crew and the passengers should be landed, and that the Territorials should remain in charge. There were about 5,000 people on the liners, a tenth of whom were destitute, and arrangements had been made to accommodate the latter at the Workhouse. The local authorities had had notice to make what arrangements were possible for the passengers when they came ashore. The captains, officers and members of the crews would not have been made prisoners of war provided they undertook, “on the faith of a written promise, not to engage while hostilities last in any service connected with the operations of the war,” and it was understood that this undertaking would be given. At all events the German Consul at Falmouth (Mr. Barclay Fox) had arranged to look after these.
The Territorials were placed on board, about 20 on each, and there they were left with fixed bayonets, each man having 100 rounds of ammunition.
The passengers, landed from the Hamburg-American liners, bound from America to Hamburg, were of all nationalities, and many were going to the Continent on holiday. Most of the first and second-class passengers were able to obtain accommodation in Falmouth, and left during the week-end for Liverpool, London and Plymouth to embark for America, or consult the American Consuls at these places. Numbers of the passengers had only German or Austrian money, and as the war had rendered the exchange of this money impossible, several accepted the offer of accommodation at the Workhouse until they could get financial assistance from their friends or the consuls.
The Penryn Advertiser – August 14th, 1914
A Plea for Destitute Aliens
To The Editor, Penryn & Falmouth Advertiser.
Dear Sir, – May I ask for a few crumbs from the distribution of charity caused by the war. Put yourself in the place of the Russian and other destitute Aliens, 100 of whom, by no fault of their own, are detained in Falmouth Workhouse. You would like, if smokers, some “baccy” and also you would value games and illustrated papers, and packs of cards, to while away the time. So would they ; and I would gladly receive, acknowledge, and distribute any such gifts which may be sent to me, or purchase them with money, if entrusted with small sums, or such gifts might be sent direct to the Master marked “For the Aliens.” They mostly smoke shag, and love cigarettes.
Yours faithfully, FRED. R. CARR,
Acting Chaplain, Falmouth Workhouse, St. Gluvias Vicarage, Penryn.
The Penryn Advertiser – September 24th, 1914
Falmouth Board of Guardians
Government Board has been authorised to refund to the Poor Law authorities of Falmouth, either wholly or in part, according to the circumstances, the cost incurred by them, owing to the warlike operations, in the reception and support of alien enemies and of destitute aliens who are citizens of countries allied to Great Britain of neutral countries.
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Because of Germany’s invasion of Belgium and into France and the atrocities that happened there was already strong ill-feeling towards all things German, and it was stated that the name of the pretty village of St. Germans in East Cornwall “spoils the map of Cornwall” and that “the association of `St.’ with `German’ was offensive and ridiculous”. In other parts of the country Bernstein pianos were destroyed. Badges inscribed with the words “I promise in memory of those who have died for me never to trade with Germany or a German as long as I live” were manufactured and sold at 1/- (one shilling) each, raising money for blinded soldiers and sailors and those who had become totally disabled in defending our country.
The immediate ill-feeling towards the enemy meant that soldiers took whatever action they saw fit to protect their homeland, as can be seen from this account:
The Penryn Advertiser – September 11th, 1914
REDRUTH MAN SHOT.
CHALLENGED BY A SENTRY ON PENRYN-FALMOUTH ROAD.
Bernard Witheridge, son of a licensed hawker at Redruth, was shot by a sentry at North Parade, on Sunday, sustaining a severe wound in the fleshy part of his leg. Witheridge, with his two sisters, was driving back to Redruth in a pony and jingle. When they reached the bottom of Old Hill they saw several soldiers, who shouted “Halt”. The occupants made no sign of stopping and when the third sentry shouted for the final time Witheridge made a reply concerning the Germans. At this point the sentry advanced to the middle of the road and fired, and Witheridge was heard to cry out “Oh, my leg.” It appears the bullet went through the jingle and penetrated his leg. The Sergt. in charge of the Corp rendered first aid, and young Witheridge was taken to a house close by. After medical examination by Drs. Banks (Falmouth) and Hopper (Penryn) the unfortunate man was conveyed to the Redruth Hospital. The wound in the leg is of rather a serious nature.
A FLAVOUR OF THE ATROCITIES ABROAD
The following letters from Mrs. Vanderlinden to her sister Mrs. Thomas in Penryn, describe the terrible destruction of Belgian towns and villages by the Germans:
The Penryn Advertiser – October, 9th, 1914
Letter from Ghent.
The following letter has been received by Mrs. W. Thomas, Central Boot Depot, Penryn, from her sister-in-law, Mrs. Vanderlinden, at Ghent, dated October 6th.
“Just a few lines to let you know that we are still alive in this terrible moment. I should have written before but I have really not had the courage, as I cannot write what terrible moments and scenes we have had here during the last 2 months. There have been as many as 20,000 people who had to run from their towns and villages without money and only clothes they had on, their homes all being broken or burnt down. Then the sick of all the hospitals such as Malines and Termonde, and every village in the round of Ghent. I cannot describe to you the terrible sight and how everybody did their best to feed and clothe them, and if it had not been for the help of England who shelters so many thousands, I do not know how we should have managed. But the Belgians are grateful for what they do, as all the conversation is over the English for their hospitality. Up to the present Ghent has been spared from the enemy, but still we are not at rest, and are afraid we shall share with the others, especially if they are driven back in France. I cannot find words bad enough for what those brutes of Germans have done in this country, which I am sure you have read in the newspapers. We get the “Daily Mail” every day, and I can assure you it is much worse than what the papers write. What will the end be ? We received a letter from Eugenie on the 1st October, and he was in good health and full of courage, which I can assure you gave us much pleasure as we have been very anxious about him. He has been in the battles of Malines and Termonde, which were terrible, but thank God he is still spared, while hundreds fell. His position has risen since the 1st of this month, and we think he will not have it so dangerous, as his line now is as officer of the motor cars with food. I hope these few lines will reach you in good health, and that I shall hear from you soon. Hundreds of people have left the town for fear. Plenty are gone to England. It is since the beginning of the war that Harry wanted me to go to England, but he intends staying until the last, and I also. Our bag is ready, and if it must be we shall leave. We intend first going to Bruges, as Eugenie has written for us to go to his house – it seems less dangerous there – but I shall wait until the last, as I can assure you it is not amusing to leave your home in these circumstances.”
Mr. Vanderlinden had just retired from business when the war broke out.
Sadly a later letter showed that Mr. and Mrs. Vanderlinden did have to leave their home:
The Penryn Advertiser – October, 16th, 1914
Obliged to Leave her Home.
Mrs. Vanderlinden, a native of Penryn, whose letter we published last week, has written the following letter from Ghent, dated last Saturday, to her sister-in-law, Mrs. W. Thomas, Central Boot Depot, Penryn.
“Contrary to what I have written, do not write me, neither send newspapers as the enemy is close to us and we being known as English are in a bad position. There are thousands of English and French soldiers around us to await them. Our luggage is ready and we leave for Bruges as soon as we have a train and if needed from there to England. My son has been home twice this week. He looks well. I will write when I can. Good-bye.”
It was firsthand accounts such as these – and this one being from a Penryn person – as well as the national news of the atrocities abroad which influenced men to join up and women to volunteer in the war effort, and prevent the events described in Mrs. Vanderlinden’s letter from happening at home.
The Penryn Advertiser – February 12th 1915
County Figures of Men Serving Their Country
The inhabitants of the Parliamentary Borough of Penryn and Falmouth need be pleased that their division is amongst the best of the seven divisions of Cornwall per population.
Constituency Population Serving
St. Ives 51,883 2,089
Camborne 52,326 1,507
Truro 49,158 1,650
St. Austell 56,492 2,296
S.E. Cornwall 52,496 3,742
Launceston 44,121 2,083
Penryn and Falmouth 17,115 990
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323,591 14,357
But while the war was raging in Europe and there was much activity here at home, there were reports of disorganisation amongst the enemy countries:
The Mayor of the Borough and Corporation
Much credit must be given to the Mayor and Corporation for co-ordination the war effort at home. The County Council at this time played only a small part in local affairs and the Mayor and Corporation oversaw the running of the town. With the advent of War a great weight of responsibility must have fallen upon the Mayor to lead the town, inspire the townsfolk and to encourage and support the soldiers and sailors from the area, and their families. The work of the Mayor and his Corporation and tremendous effort they made is evident throughout the articles included in this paper.
Captain George Read was the Mayor of Penryn at the time of the outbreak of war and therefore immediately went on active service. His predecessor as Mayor was Mr. Benjamin Annear:
The Penryn Advertiser – October, 9th, 1914
THE NEW MAYOR OF PENRYN.
Mr. Benjamin Annear was unanimously nominated as Mayor of Penryn for the ensuing year in succession to Capt. G. Read, at Monday’s meeting of the General Purposes Committee of Penryn Town Council. Mr. B. Annear is deputy-Mayor and has acted as Mayor in the absence of Capt. G. Read on active service. He has served as an Alderman, and is at present a Councillor. Mr. Annear is a church-warden at St. Gluvias church and a Conservative. The Council with the Mayor-elect would have liked to have re-elected Capt. Read but it was impossible owing to his absence from England.
The Penryn Advertiser – November, 6th, 1914
Beneath the cloud that hangs on Britain’s Isle,
Enter into thy duties with a cherry smile ;
No pessimistic fears assail thy heart,
Just forward go, and act the manly part,
Assured that duty its reward will bring,
Make conscience clear, make others sing;
In all things tend towards the Boro’s weal,
New joys to comfort, sorrows sore to heal.
For the town, near where Nature gave you birth,
Resolve to do your best, and prove your worth:
Act for the common good, not sect nor faction,
Not party nor prejudice hinder your action ;
Call to your aid a calm and sober mind,
In all your dealings seek good of all mankind,
So that in doing good, you shall all blessings find.
All this tho’ superfluous, I know you’ll bear,
Nor doubt I your ability to do your share,
New honour yet to shed on Penryn town,
Ever its ‘scutcheon with laurels crown;
And when the year has flown learn to know,
Respect and admiration from all will flow.
The Penryn Advertiser – November, 20th 1914
MR. BENJAMIN ANNEAR, MAYOR OF PENRYN.
Councillor Benjamin Annear, the newly-elected Mayor of Penryn, is a native of the Ancient Borough, having been born in Budock-Penryn in 1861. On leaving school he served his apprenticeship as a mason, and at the age of 21 he left for Australia, in which colony he spent eight years. He then went to America, settling in Montana where, in conjunction with his brother, Mr. J. C. Annear, he executed many important building and mining contracts. After thirteen busy years in America Mr. Annear decided to retire and forthwith returned to his native town. His energy found an outlet in municipal work and as a member of the Corporation his practical knowledge has been invaluable. During the ten years he has been in the Council he has acted as chairman of the Property Committee for three years; overseer for three years, and Alderman for six years, retiring in 1913. His return to the Council last year was unopposed.
Mrs. Annear, the Mayoress, is a daughter of the late Mr. W. J. Preston, for many years master-at-arms on the old training ship Ganges, in Falmouth Harbour.
THE ELECTION.
For the past two years the duties of chief magistrate of the Ancient Borough have been discharged by Alderman George Read, and it is safe to say that no mayor of recent times has more worthily filled the office, or enjoyed in so large a measure the confidence of his fellow citizens. His re-election to the mayoralty was considered a certainty, but war was declared and Alderman Read, as captain of the Falmouth Company D.C.L.I. Territorials, responded to his country’s call, relegating his civic duties to the Deputy-Mayor, Councillor Benjamin Annear. So well has Councillor Annear carried out those duties that the Council were unanimous in extending to him an invitation to occupy the mayoral chair during the ensuing year.
A fair number of Burgesses assembled in the Town Hall on the 9th instant to witness the proceedings over which Ald. A. Geach, J.P., presided. Others present included Ald. J. M. Thomas, J.P., Councillors A. T. Greenwood, B. Annear, T. Rickard, C. H. C. Sara, R. F. Stephens, F. Richards, J. A. Jackson, W. J. Crothers, G. W. B. Furneaux, Messrs. F. Chegwidden, J.P., M. H. Truscott (town clerk), F. C. Polglase (magistrates’ clerk), W. J. Lawrey (borough treasurer), J. H. Harris (surveyor) and N. Furneaux (harbour master).
Letters of apology were received from Councillor C. W. Andrew, D. J. Blamey, M.O.H., and Mr. T. H. Dunstan, J.P.
Mr. J. M. Thomas proposed Mr. Benjamin Annear as mayor for the ensuing year, stating that Mr. Annear was an enthusiastic worker, whose motto was “Deeds, not words.”
Mr. C. H. C. Sara seconded, and mentioned that Mr. Annear had carried out the duties of Deputy-Mayor most satisfactorily.
Mr. T. Rickard supported, and the voting was unanimous.
EFFECTS ON BUSINESSES
With so many men and women missing from the Borough businesses were affected, with less business being carried out and the resultant losses of revenue – and this at a time when resources were requested of the inhabitants of the Borough to provide for the sick, injured and needy and for the War Effort. No business was unaffected, including the Town Council, with the departure from the town of the Mayor of Penryn, Capt. George Read, and the Town Clerk of Penryn, Mr. M. H. Truscott.
We’ve already heard that large numbers of horses were commandeered and sea vessels requisitioned. Older men came out of retirement to be carpenters and plumbers etc., special constables and volunteer firemen. Headquarters had been notified that in case of an air raid firemen should at once muster at the fire station and remain there until danger was passed. Early in 1917 Police Constable Fred. Hosking, who had been stationed in Penryn for four years, left to join the R.G.A. He had been succeeded by P. C. Hugo, of Perranwell.
The war resulted in a large decrease in the number of holiday visitors to the town compared with previous summers and so the Borough Council decided to spend no more than £10 on advertising the area. Visitors and locals alike were restricted in what they could photograph. There was a warning to refrain from taking photographs anywhere along the coast, on pain of the destruction of the cameras and plates. Coast watchers stringently enforced the regulation.
The fall-off of shipping at the port (other than war vessels) meant there was a decrease in quay tolls which in January 1917 were reported as £125 as opposed to £325 the previous year, and also market tolls collected by the Borough were less too. Messrs. W. J. Easom and Co. Offered £25 10s. for the market tolls, £5 less than the previous year.
The shortage of the male population made it difficult to carry out funeral arrangements and a Public Bier was needed. Instead of providing this out of the rates it was provided by Public Subscription – a further demand on the pocket of the residents. There was a shortage of grave diggers and women were required to help with this too.
Postal service deliveries were cut due to a shortage of staff – and this at a time when there was much correspondence between those away serving and their loved ones at home.
There were severe petrol restrictions and so the Penryn and Falmouth Road Motor Company and Messrs. Rendall and Ferris extensively reduced their cars between Penryn and Falmouth. The G.W.R. motor, which was at Penryn for Redruth twice daily was cancelled altogether. Additionally, by early 1916 the Defence of the Realm Act passed that every vehicle drawn by mechanical or horse power must have a red light at the rear, and every vehicle would have to carry a head light – even a perambulator (a pram). This applied to all places six miles from the coast. Even Penryn people needed these if they were to travel 6 miles or more inland. However, limitations on the sale of petrol already restricted pleasure and holiday traffic at the outbreak of War but a Prohibition Order came into effect from September 1916 that pleasure trips be wholly barred. Exceptional reasons to drive were few and rigorously limited. Vehicles used in country districts to supplement other travelling facilities were certified by the Chief Officer of Police as necessary or desirable in the interests of the travelling public.
Many men and women took up work producing munitions, often leaving their existing jobs because the continued production of munitions was vital in winning the war. In addition, buildings had to be identified in which the work could take place. The production line was constant and workers had worked such long hours that the Ministry of Munitions announced in 1916 that production would cease for four consecutive days in September of that year to give the workers a well earned rest. Many Penryn people worked in munitions and so by order of M. H. Truscott, Penryn Town Clerk, in Penryn the Whitsuntide Holiday in 1916 was postponed for all inhabitants of the Borough in recognition of the patriotic spirit of the munition workers throughout the county.
Tanners and leather merchants were required by the War Office to make a return of all kinds of leather. From February 1916 there was a prohibition of the import of certain goods such as paper and materials for manufacturing paper, all manufactured and unmanufactured tobacco, furniture, woods, stones and slates. Importations of these under Board of Trace license were excepted. In 1917 the Paper Restriction Order was extended to “posters or advertisements of similar character of whatever material they were made”.
By 1918 there were also restrictions on the amount of household fuel to be delivered to private dwelling houses, which was that it should not exceed 1 ton in the month (except without the express consent of the Local Fuel Overseer, J. H. Harris), and in addition not more than three cwts. was to be delivered to a private household in two consecutive weeks.
With such restrictions in place and shortages of staff, people’s livelihoods must have been affected including those of the local Publicans. There was much less alcohol consumed and opening hours drastically reduced. The report on the Penryn Brewster Session by The Penryn Advertiser on 12th February 1915 was as follows:
“Supt. Nicholls reported 10 cases of drunkenness during the year as against 3 in 1913 and 8 in 1912. In addition to the 10 there were 4 cases of soldiers, which had been handed over to the Military Authorities. Seven out of 10 occurred in the last half of the year. The Fortress Commander had ordered all pubs to be closed at 9.30 p.m. and no drink to be supplied to females after 6.00 p.m. There was to be no credit, treating banned and weaker spirits served. The arrangements had worked most satisfactorily and taking into consideration that the population of Falmouth, only 2 miles away, had doubled and that reservists and young recruits met and parted, also going off to the front was frequently happening, Supt. Nicholls thought the behaviour was something to be congratulated on.”
The following year the Penryn Brewster Session reported as follows:
“The magistrates present at the annual Licensing Sessions on Tuesday were the Mayor (Mr. B. Annear), Messrs. T. H. Dunstan, J. M. Thomas, A. Geach, J. Cloak and F. Chegwidden. Supt. Nicholls reported that nine persons had been proceeded against for drunkenness during the year. Seven were convicted and two dismissed against ten last year and two the previous year. There were as follows :– Simple drunk, 2 against 1 ; drunk in charge of horse and trap, 1 against 1 ; drunk and disorderly, 5 against 8 ; drunk on licensed premises, 1 against nil. They were all males, six were arrested and three summoned. They were all non-residents. Two cases occurred on a Sunday. There are ten Licensed Houses in the borough, one less than last year. Fully Licensed, 8 ; Grocers’ Licenses, 2. The population of the borough at the last census was 3059, which gives 305 inhabitants to each Licensed House. There were no transfers. The Order of the Central Control Board (Liquor Traffic) came into force on the 22nd November, 1915, since then there have been no convictions. All the houses had been fairly well conducted, but there were one or two landlords in the habit of keeping people in their houses when they were drunk, through not supplying them with liquor. Landlords were just as liable as if they had served them. He did not intend to recommend the closing of any house on the ground of redundancy now, but next year he hoped to bring forward a list to be dealt with with the consent of the owners. All the licenses were renewed, the Mayor congratulating the borough on its sobriety.”
Butchers, Bakers and Grocery shops were also badly affected because of the food shortage later in the war. This is a Notice put in The Penryn Advertiser on 10th January 1918:
MEAT SHORTAGE
Being unable to procure supplies, we, the undersigned Butchers, are reluctantly compelled to CLOSE our Shops the first Three Days of the Week, commencing on Monday next, until further notice.
F. BOLITHO, E. MEDLIN, W.J. THOMAS & SON, E. KNOWLES
The war had a marked effect on the various churches and other places of worship in Penryn and its surrounding area with many male followers and office bearers leaving to join The Colours. In August 1916 Mr. Normal Warren, of The Terrace, a member of the Penryn Methodist Church choir and a Sunday school teacher of that Church left to join the colours. The question was posed “Who will succeed them to carry on this Christian work successfully, that it may be made possible for the Church in the future to be an inspiration for good ?”
Schooling was also considerably affected by some teachers having joined the Colours and in May, 1915 it was reported at the School Section Committee of the local district that there was a shortage in the staffing of some schools. The best arrangements possible were made to meet the difficulty. In June, 1916 a meeting of the Penryn Sectional Committee heard that Mr. S. Harvey of Mawnan School had joined the Colours and Miss Harris, of Devoran would take on the duties until he returned. Miss Hosking, of the Penryn Council School had given notice to leave as she was taking up munition work and a supplementary teacher would fill the vacancy. At Penjeravah School, the assistant master had joined up, but the headmaster having been placed in IV13 Group would probably not be called up and the managers were trying to fill the vacancy locally. Each school was to make arrangements with regard to Whitsuntide holiday and school children working on Agriculture who had time off from school to work on the land because of the shortage of farm hands. Children also had the following day off school if they had been on look-out duty overnight. If no holiday was taken at Whitsuntide, a week extra would be given in the summer.
Adult Education attendance tapered, and in August 1915 it was decided that subjects offered would be changed to subjects suitable for war work.
Sport was significantly affected by the exit of so many young men from the area with football clubs having not enough players to enter the League. However, those away at war felt the excitement of sport when things went well for them, as this letter from a West Bromwich man to his brother, printed in the Penryn Advertiser on September 11th, 1914 shows:
“A sailor named Jack Diggett, of West Bromwich, who took part in the naval victory in Heligoland Bight, in the letter to his brother, gives a description in football terms of the battle. He says :–
`You will have heard of our little job in the North Sea. We sank five ships and ran a few off. Of course it was only a trial spin. We kicked off last Friday about six in the morning, and we won five – nil. Not bad, considering we are playing `away’. Their goalkeepers could not hold us, we were so hot. Our forwards shot beautifully, and our defence was sound. We agreed to play extra time if we had not finished, but we had done in time.’ “
LIGHTING BLACK OUT
From November 1914 more than half the public lamps of the Borough were extinguished and others veiled, by order of the Military and the Police. In addition a Board of Trade Lighting, Heating and Power Order prohibited shop window lighting, darkening the streets further.
This caused may accidents. The Penryn Advertiser reported that one night a lady at the top of Helston Road severely knocked her head against one of the electric light standards and apart from being “knocked silly”, she received a nasty cut on the forehead. A lady in Falmouth slipped off the pavement in front of the Wesleyan Church and fell into the sink (horse trough), being badly bruised. This happened to others. Mrs. S. Root jnr., Market Street, slipped whilst descending the steps from The Terrace and broke her ankle. There were many cases where pedestrians collided – some with much force – and frequent use of the “beg-pardon” and other similar expressions were used.
As a result of the effects of the reduced lighting, the Daylight Saving that we experience today was started during the First World War in May, 1916.
There is a certain irony that Penryn first came to have electric street lighting during the First World War – at a time when an order was in place that most of the street lighting was to be extinguished!
Very sadly the daylight saving was insufficient to help three soldiers billeted at Pendennis Castle who lost their way when returning from Penryn to Falmouth and were found lying on the bed of the river.
The Penryn Advertiser – 29th September, 2016
SAD DISCOVERY AT PENRYN
BODIES OF THREE SOLDIERS FOUND IN THE MUD.
The painful news that the bodies of three soldiers had been found lying in the mud off the Penryn Quay spread rapidly through the town on Wednesday morning.
As the tide was receding in the morning the bodies of the soldiers were found lying on the bed of the river. Tuesday night was extremely dark and the circumstances pointed to their having fallen over the Quay, it being a dangerous place. The alarm was made and a crowd immediately assembled. The Mayor assumed control and made the necessary arrangements for the recovery of the bodies. Two of the soldiers were lying along the east side of the Quay, and the other on the south. The police were quickly on the scene, and with assistance the bodies were raised to the top of the Quay. They were covered with mud, and their faces were somewhat disfigured by the action of the crabs. When the bodies were discovered one man was lying on his face, and the other two on their backs with their hands up.
They were men of the London Rifle Brigade and came to Falmouth during August to undergo training. On examination it was found one was named William Barker, and another George Harwood, whilst the third man’s name was then unknown, but on his boots were the letters R.B., T.F., 1265.
It is said, between nine and ten o’clock on Tuesday night some soldiers were heard near the Quay discussing whether they should proceed to Falmouth or return to Penryn to catch the motor, as they could not see their way. Whether these were the soldiers who lost their lives is not known, but it is thought that the men, after descending the hill, mistook the road, walked on to the Quay, and fell over. The assumption is that on falling the men became embedded in the mud.
The bodies were removed to a store belonging to the Corporation, and later were conveyed to Falmouth.
The coroner (Mr. E. L. Carlyon) held an inquest at Penryn yesterday morning as the bodies of Rifleman G. Harwood, of Taunton, aged 31 ; Rifleman W. Barker, of London, aged 29 ; and Rifleman W. Harrington, of London, aged 19 – three single men.
Mr. R. W. Curgenven was chosen foreman of the jury.
Mr. James Collins proved the finding of the bodies, fully dressed, with exception of caps.
P.C. Pellow, in answer to the Coroner, said he thought they must have walked on to the Quay in mistake instead of taking the turn of the road.
Evidence was given by Rifleman Hill, J. Ray and J. Hatchett, Lieut-Corporal Avery and T. Stanmere, as to the roll being called at 9.30 on Tuesday night and to all the names being answered, even the three deceased.
A discussion took placed as to whether it was relevant for one to answer in place of another. The Captain of the regiment answered it was so. The Corporals, however, on being closely questioned, were positive the men answered the names for themselves.
Rifleman Ray, on being recalled, said that at roll call Harwood was not in. He noticed that the man’s bed was not made at the time of the roll call, neither was it made when he awoke the following morning.
An open verdict of “Found drowned” was returned, and sympathy was expressed with the bereaved relatives. The Coroner concurred, as also did the Lieutenant on behalf of the regiment.
The Penryn Advertiser – 6th October, 2016
FUNERAL OF PENRYN RIVER VICTIMS.
A large concourse of people gathered at Falmouth Cemetery on Saturday last, when the funeral took place of the three soldiers who lost their lives in Penryn River on Tuesday night of last week. The cortege was headed by a firing party, followed by the band of the Rifle Brigade (T.F.), under Bandmaster Burton, who played en route the Dead March in “Saul.” The three coffins were covered with Union Jacks, and upwards of 400 soldiers were present, including a detachment of the R.G.A. and wounded soldiers, under the command of Capt. H. W. Darling. Col. E. B. Williams and the Mayor of Penryn (Mr. B. Annear) were also present. The Rev. C. S. L. Alford (chaplain of the Forces) officiated. At the close of the ceremony three volleys were fired, and the “Last Post” was sounded.
Beautiful floral tokens included three from the commanding officer and officers of the Rifle Brigade (T.F.), three from the N.C.O.’s and men of the same regiment, three from the matron and nurses of the Military Hospital, Falmouth, also wreaths from deceased’s comrades in their different huts, and one from the patients of Clare Terrace Hospital.
POUNDS, SHILLINGS AND PENCE, AND PRICES PAID THEN
Prior to decimalisation in 1971, the British Sterling currency consisted of pounds, shillings and pence.
There were 12 pence to the shilling and 20 shillings to the pound. That meant that 5 new (decimalised) pence (our 5p today) = 1 shilling. The amount of £1 and 1 shilling (written as £1 1/-) was called a guinea. Five shillings was called a crown and 2 shillings and six pence (written as 2/6d) was called half a crown.
The £ sterling is the world’s oldest currency still in use and which has been in continuous use since its inception. The pound was a unit of account in Anglo Saxon England equivalent to 240 silver pennies and equivalent to 1 lb. weight of silver. You will see money in this booklet shown as £ (L). s. d. £. s. d. stood for Libra (pound) Solidus (Latin) (shilling) and Denarius (Latin) (penny). E.G. £5 2s. 6d. (£5, 2 shillings, 6 pence, or £5. 12 ½ p in today’s money).
Here are some price comparisons with those at the time of the First World War:
The Penryn Advertiser – June 2nd, 1916
At T. BRIMACOMBE’S, No. 1, Supply Stores, PENRYN
SPECIAL PRICES.
| Sugars | Decimalised Comparison | |
| Moist Sugar | 4d per LB | Less than 2 pence per LB |
| Granulated Sugar | 5d & 51/4d per LB | Approx. 2 pence per LB |
| Castor Sugar | 51/2d per LB | Approx. 2 pence per LB |
| Loaf Sugar | 6d per LB | 21/2 pence per LB |
| Peel | ||
| Lemon Peel | 7d & 8d per LB | Approx. 3 pence per LB |
| Citron Peel | 8d & 9d per LB | Approx. 31/2 pence per LB |
| Fruits, & Co | ||
| Currants | 6d & 7d per LB | |
| Raisins | 7d, 8d, 9d & 10d per LB | |
| Raisins (Seedless) | 10d per LB | |
| Sultanas | 1/-&1/1 per LB | |
| Saffron | 101/2 per 1/4oz | |
| Muscatels | ||
| Almonds (Valencia) | ||
| Almonds (Jordan) | ||
| Almonds (Ground) | ||
| Cherries (Cry’s) | ||
| Peaches (Choicest) | ||
| Plums | ||
| Plums (French) | ||
| Apple Rings | ||
| Apples | ||
| Oranges | ||
| Lemons | ||
| Dates | ||
| Ginger | ||
| Turkish Delight | ||
| Figs (Loose) | ||
| Mince Meat (Chivers) | ||
| Lemon Cheese | ||
| Honey (Finest) | ||
| Baking Powder | ||
| Jams | ||
| Raspberry (Chivers) | ||
| Black Currant | ||
| Strawberry | ||
| Marmalade | ||
| Lemon Marmalade | ||
| Apple Jelly | ||
| Apricot | ||
| Provisions | ||
| Hams Picnic (Choice) | ||
| Hams (Finest) | ||
| Gammons (Wiltshire) | ||
| Bacon | ||
| Hams (Boneless) | ||
| Tongues (in tins & glasses) | ||
| Cheese (American) | ||
| Cheese (English Cheddar) | ||
| Lard (Pure) | ||
| Lard (Wiltshire) | ||
| Dripping | ||
| Margerine | ||
| Wines | ||
| Ginger, Orange, Raisin, Elder, Blackcurrant, Raspberry & Tent Wine (Finest) | ||
| Cherry Brandy | ||
| Ginger Brandy | ||
| Port Wine (quart bottle) | ||
| Port Wine | ||
| Sherry | ||
| Claret | ||
| Brandy | ||
| Whiskey | ||
| Rum | ||
| Gin (Coates) | ||
| Holland’s Gin | ||
| Wincarnis’ & Hall’s Wine | ||
| Vibrona | ||
| Lemon Squash | ||
| Lime Juice (Feltoes) | ||
From the advertisement calling for enlistments of Wheelwrights, it can be seen that the pay for men was 1s. 8d a day, i.e. approximately 8½ pence per day in today’s money. The advertisement states pay 1s. 8d. per day, all in, which means the man would be given his food and accommodation.
The article below shows how much money wives left at home received:
The Penryn Advertiser – 30th August, 1918
HELP FOR SAILORS’ WIVES.
It is mentioned that the Labour leaders are being pressed to take up the question of equal pay for wives of sailors and soldiers. At present the pay of the sailor’s wife is
9s. 6d. (47½ p) per week, while the soldier’s wife receives 12s. 6d (62½ p). For her first child, moreover, she only gets 6s (30 pence)., while the soldier’s wife gets 7s (35 pence). But for both services the separation allowances are absurdly inadequate.
The majority of the population of the Borough of Penryn would have rented their homes at the time of the First World War. Rents would probably have been around £10 to £15 per year. Due to the fact that men went to serve their country and so building work for new houses ceased, the cost of renting houses rose and so for the first time an Act was passed by the government to restrict the rise in prices called “Increases of Rent and Mortgage Interest (War Restrictions) Act 1915″. This meant that no landlord was allowed to charge rent of more than £26 per annum in England (£30 in Scotland and £35 in London).