A man has bought a moving memorial to an Elland soldier killed in the First World War... and is now eager to find out more about his life.
After the war finished every family that lost a loved one received a memorial plaque, which was also known as a Death Penny, as it was made of bronze in the shape of a large penny and featured an image of Britannia holding a trident and standing with a lion.
In her outstretched left hand Britannia holds an oak wreath above the rectangular tablet bearing the deceased’s name cast in raised letters. The name does not include the rank since there was to be no distinction between sacrifices made by different individuals.
Ian Hey bought the Memorial Plaque featuring George Spencer Milner from an auction in Calderdale for £60.
He has found some information out about George but is now eager to learn more.
George was born on February 18, 1899, at 22 Blackley in Elland to parents Fred Milner and Sarah Jane Spencer who had married at Halifax Parish Church in September 1891.
In the 1911 Census the family was recorded as living at 4 Lower Fold, Blackley.
George was 12 and spent the mornings at school and the afternoons working in the textile industry. His older brother, 19-year-old Clarkson, worked at Blackley Brickworks and his 14-year-old sister Minnie worked at cotton spinners in Elland.
George had two young brothers at that time – 10-year-old Ernest and eight-year-old Joe.
Ian said: “I know that George enlisted with the 1st Bn Lincolnshire Regiment in Huddersfield in 1916 or 1917 but I have no idea where he trained or served and I’d like to know about his war service.”
George lost his life in Flanders on August 25, 1918.
He is buried at Adanac Military Cemetery at Miraumont around 15km north of Albert in France. His service number was 53196.
Anyone who can help Ian in his quest should call him on 01422 366394.
