These pages contains a partial transcription of an index that resides in the reference section of the Grimsby Central library where it has laid, gathering dust for many years, many people ignorant of its existence. I first became aware of this treasure when I set out on my journey of discovery called "Family History". The then librarian of the day Mr. Derek Wattam, showed me around the back of the "unwanted", "no longer read" books to this eight draw index which became an important aid to my local "Families".

The history of the index is unclear, but appears to have been compiled shortly after the Great War, directly from the men involved, although there are apparent double entries which, on examination appear to have been taken from a less than well informed third party. My own hypothesis, remains, that questionnaires where available at the library which returning heroes duly filled out, and the occasional relative, filled an "extra card" out, I am open to more informed opinions.

There are many spelling mistakes, especially in the names of ships, which can be guessed at, they often appear to be spelt phonetically, this is particularly true in the cases of Scottish name places, where we were able, we have checked odd sounding names and given "possible" alternatives, making it easier for researchers, although we have left the original spelling in its place.

The information in the original index is more extensive, and includes time spent abroad and at home also medals which they may have won.

There are also several other errors, one which springs to mind is the confusion that arises when both the Royal Fleet Auxiliary and the Royal Field Artillery both have been abbreviated to the initials R.F.A. so do look closely, - you would not find a deck hand in the artillery, nor a gunner at sea (Well, you could actually, but you see my point.)

As you read through this index you may also see a few anomalies, which are due to several indexers work being put together, and these will be self evident and do not detract from the index. + means there is more but the transcriber could not fit in the space available.* means there is in our opinion some doubt to the original spelling and --- means that entry was left blank.

I would like to thank the Reference Library staff for lending me this index, so that the friends listed below could transcribe it, and the original compiler, even though his handwriting caused many sleepless nights.

Transcribed by:- Mrs. Christina Coleman, Mrs. Vanessa Dumbleton Mr. & Mrs. Frank and Elsie Nelson Mrs. Fiona Poulton Mr. Tim Tasker

Select a letter below to go directly to entries starting with that letter

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W Y

These pages were renewed on Sunday November 23, 2003 by Fiona J. Poulton

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