In 1914 Charles Lander was working as a cowman in Purton when the Great War broke out. Having previously served in the Army Service Corps he was on the reservist list and was immediately recalled for service. Just ten days later he was in France with the 14th Ambulance, a horse driver in the ASC with the 5th Division. He was later transferred to the North Staffordshire Regiment.
Charles Christopher Lander was born in Fairford in 1885 one of John and Agnes Lander’s three sons. He married Susan Dolman in 1907 and at the time of the 1911 census they were living with their three children and Susan’s father at a house in the High Street, Purton.
As the war raged on Charles was wounded, shot in the upper right arm during fighting on April 21, 1918. Within a week he was returned to England. He died on May 18 at the City of London Military Hospital following an operation to amputate his arm. He was 33 years old.
Susan received a pension of 37/11 (approximately £1.4) a week for herself and her five children. She was also sent her husband’s personal effects.
2 pocket wallets containing 2 packets of blades (razor)
1 pocket mirror
Purses
Safety razor & blades
Pair scissors & case
Linen bag
Buttons, pencils etc.
1 writing pad & Envelopes
3 Handkerchiefs
1 Chevron (overseas)
Cap Bade & Broach
Diary & Letters
2 Discs
2 Numerals
2 Lockets
1 Pen Knife
1 Crucifix
1 key on ring
2/- (10p) postal order No. c/53 590295
1/- (5p)
Charles was buried on May 23, 1918 in grave plot C3514.
In 1919 Susan married Frederick Arthur Hatton and raised a second family at 12 Queen Street, Swindon. In 1923 Charles and Susan’s son Douglas Napoleon Lander died and was buried with his father. Susan died in 1961 and her second husband Frederick in 1962. They were also buried in grave plot C3514.
Radnor Street Cemetery 