Robert Burns Williams was born at Holywell, Flintshire in 1891, his parents were Enoch and Sarah Williams. He was the youngest of 7 children. In 1891 the family lived at Temperance House, Station Road, Holywell but by 1901 they were living in Oswestry at 22 Coney Green, his father was working as an insurance agent, he would later change jobs to become a postman. By 1911 they had moved to 3 Albert Place, Beatrice Street, all the children, with the exception of Robert, had by now moved away. Robert too worked as a postman. His parents would later move to 8 King Street.

Robert enlisted at Oswestry joining the 7 Bn King’s Shropshire Light Infantry, it is not known when he went over to France but he was not awarded the 1915 Star so could not have arrived until at least 1916 – probably as a draft the last of which had joined the battalion on 20 July, 3 days before he died. Robert was wounded on 23 July 1916 during the fighting at Delville Wood, Somme Offensive. He died later at Bronfay Farm where there was a main casualty station. He was buried in Bronfay Farm Military Cemetery at Bray sur Somme. He is also commemorated at St Oswald’s and Holy Trinity churches.

In his obituary his parents included a poem;

He marched away so bravely, his head so proudly held.

His footsteps never faultered (sic) his courage never failed.

Do not ask us if we miss him; there is such a vacant place.

He fought and died for Britain and the honour of the race.

KIA same Day and Action

Private 22357 Christopher R Williams, 7 Bn King’s Shropshire Light Infantry. KIA 23 July 1916. Thiepval Memorial (unknown)

Acknowledgements.

References and Sources

END