Albert was born in 1890 to Harry and Emily Jane Spalding in Benhall, Suffolk. He was baptised in St Mary’s Church, Benhall on 14th Dec 1890. In April 1891 when Albert was six months old, the family lived at The Alder Carr, Benhall Green (now known as Aldercar Lane) and his father Harry was employed as an Agriculture Labourer on the Holland Estate.
By 1901 the family were living in Turnpike Road near Brook Cottage. Albert, aged 10 was one of four children, his siblings being Eliza aged 18, Lottie 8 and Emily 3.
Brook Cottage, Benhall Green
In 1911 Albert was a Boarder at The Platt, Dormansland, Lingwood, Surrey. Aged 20 he was employed as an Assistant Gardener. His family were then living at the Pest House, Kiln Lane, Benhall Green.
Albert attested on 19th May 1915 at Lingfield, Surrey for the 2nd Battalion of the Queen’s (Royal West Surrey) Regiment, service number G/5763 and signed up for 3 years service. He was then aged 24 years and 8 months. He married Ada Helen Parrish on 18th September 1915 at Colman’s Hatch, Sussex and disembarked in France on 16th December 1915.
Albert was killed in action aged 25 at the Somme in France on 1st July 1916.
Courtesy CWGC
Evening Star 28th July 1916
Albert Spalding’s Medal Card. He was awarded the British & Victory medals as well as the 15 Star.
Albert is remembered on the War Memorial at Saint John the Evangelist Church,
Left: Commonwealth War Graves certificate. Albert Charles Spalding is remembered on the Thiepval Memorial.
Above: The face of the Thiepval memorial where his name is remembered.
