Soldier's infant son killed (1917)

Post date: May 21, 2014 1:31:41 PM

Extract from Kent Messenger of 28th July 1917

WATERINGBURY

FATAL BURNS.—Mr. Neve, the County Coroner, held an inquest at the Queen’s Head on Saturday on Edward Arthur Cowlard, aged three, son of Mrs. Cowlard of No. 2 Vicarage Cottages, Wateringbury¹, whose hus­band, a former employee of Messrs. Jude, Hanbury and Co., was killed at the Front some months ago. The child, it appeared, was left at home in the care, of his grandmother while his mother went to work at Messrs. Leney’s. The grandmother had occasion to leave the living-room, and, hearing screams, rushed back to find deceased in flames. These were speedily extinguished and a doctor was sent for. The little fellow was however exten­sively burned about the body and two days later succumbed to shock. The evidence showed that the fireplace was protected by a guard, and it was suggested that in all probability the deceased put a stick into the fire and in that way set himself alight. The jury returned a verdict of “Accidental death.” .

Notes:

1. Vicarage Cottages on Tonbridge Road just past (when going from crossroads) the White House.