James Perry first appeared in a census in 1891. He was living with his family at living at 12, Wortons? Sq. Brierley, Coseley, Staffordshire (Christ Church). The father Samuel Perry 35, was an Iron Worker who had been born in Bradley, Staffordshire. The mother, Mary Ann, 35 had been born in Willenhall, Staffordshire. Their children were John, 14, an Iron Worker, Samuel 13, a File Cutter, Benjamin 10, Sarah Ann 8, George 6 and Kesia? 3. James was 3 months old. Samuel’s Father, William Perry, a 67 year old widower was also in the household.
The 1901 census see James and family living at Corporation Road, Newport, Monmouthshire. Mary Ann was a widow, aged 46. Her children were listed as John Perry 24, single, and a Furnace Man, in the Ironworks. Benjamin, 20 was an ‘Iron Bar Drawer’. Sarah A. was 17 and a ‘Dryer in the Laundry’. George 15 was a ‘Scrap Cutter’ in the Iron Works. Louisa was 12 and James was 10.
Mary Ann Perry and her family had moved to Shotton by the 1911 census and they were living in a 6 room house in Jubilee Street, Shotton, Flintshire. Mary Ann writes on the census that 7 children had been born to her, but one had died. ( The enumerator crossed it out, but it adds to their story). Mary Ann stated on this census that she was a Shop Keeper and a Widow aged 55. Her family was recorded as follows, John William Perry 36 and an Iron Worker. Benjamin Perry 28 was also an Iron Worker and married but his wife was not listed in this household. James Perry was 20 and an Iron Worker. Mary Ann also had three Lodgers.
UK soldiers who died in the Great War 1914 -19, accessible on www.ancestry.co.uk confirms the regimental information above and adds that he enlisted in Shotton.
James Perry in the UK, Army Registers of Soldiers’ Effects, 1901-1929 tells us that his Death was prsumed on or since 25th September 1915 and the sole Legatee was his mother Mary A who was paid £3. 10s 0d on the 22nd October 1919. There was a Dr. Bal. of £6. 11s 10d
James is mentioned in the book “Soldiers Died in the Great War Royal Welsh Fusiliers. Volume 28” – 9th Bn Perry, James. It confirms the regimental details above and tells us he was born in Coseley, Staffordshire. This source tells us he was ‘Killed in Action’ in France & Flanders 25th September 1915.
There is a card for James in the Flintshire Roll of Honour at the County Record Office in Hawarden. (Flintshire WW1 Index Cards F 30 Shotton:- Perry, James). It confirms the regimental details above and gives the address 72, Jubilee Street, Shotton, Nr. Chester. It says that he served for about 15 months. It adds that he was reported ‘Missing’ on the 25th September 1915. The card was signed on the 20th January 1920 by Mrs. M.A.Parry.
James was named on 2 other memorials – the Hawarden War Memorial and the Memorial screen at St Ethelwold’s Church. Somebody made an effort to ensure he was remembered.
