Colchester & the Armistice

Andrew Phillips, a local historian and author, will talk about Colchester & the Armistice in delivering the Annual Bernard Colbron Lecture.  Organised by the West Bergholt Local History Group, the talk takes place at 7:30 pm on 14th November in the Orpen Hall.  Entry from 7 pm and only £2 for members, £4 for visitors.

With the centenary of the end of the Great War occurring on November 11th 2018, this talk is very appropriate as it follows the many activities which will take place throughout the country, including here.  Andrew has visited the History Group a number of times and knew our former Chairman, Bernard Colbron, very well.  He is, therefore, a very appropriate person to deliver this second Bernard Colbron Memorial Lecture.

Garrison Town

As a Garrison town, Colchester was heavily involved during the First World War; over 3,000 men from the town had enlisted by November 1914.  Over 100,000 Army volunteers from all over the country came to Colchester to receive their initial training.

This large influx of soldiers to the area had billets all over the area including West Bergholt.  We know that members of the 4th Suffolks had billets at West Bergholt Lodge until it was seriously damaged by a fire in 1916.  Apparently, a hunt for a wasp’s nest in the roof caused the fire!  With its numerous engineering companies and the fact that it had a Garrison Hospital, Colchester was obviously important.

Losses

Our research has indicated that out of a population of just over 1,000 according to the 1911 census more than 270 men and women from West Bergholt had involvement in the British Armed Forces between 1914 and 1918. Of these, we are aware that at least 24 of the men did not return to West Bergholt.   As a major employer in the village during this time many were recruited from the Daniell and Sons Brewery and their names are recorded on the war memorial in the Brewery.  The History Group have supported the Parish Council in protecting this Memorial from further weather damage.

Display & Announcement

During the evening attendees will also have the opportunity to view the WBLHG World War 1 display.  Group member, Peter Jones, prepared this display and showed it at the Village Fete in September.

The Group will also announce plans to name footpaths in West Bergholt to mark the centenary of the Armistice.

Andrew Phillips

Andrew Phillips has written and published a book entitled “Colchester in the Great War”, and he will, therefore, be able to provide us with an insight to the importance of the 1918 Armistice to the people of the Colchester area.

Next Meeting

The Group’s next meeting is on Wednesday, 9th January on the topic of “Transport of Delight”.  Alan Skinner will deliver this talk which gives insights into Colchester buses delivering civic pride in a century of service.