William Alexander Bradley

I initially thought this was a clear-cut William Bradley, Roadside Cottage, Rickarton. However, as I researched this, I also came into contact with the Grandson of William Bradley. What became clear was that there were two William Bradleys to consider.

The first William Bradley was born in 1897 in Glasgow. During World War 1, he served as a Private in the 210^th Protection Company, Royal Defence Corps. This army unit was typically composed of men who were unable to fight due to physical or mental health issues. It was usually used to protect military facilities and POW camps on the British mainland. The 210^th is recorded as guarding the entrance to the Clyde during World War 1.

In 1918, William Bradley married Isabella Clark. Both were 21, and he is listed as serving with the 210^th Protection Coy.

After WWI ended, William became a postman in Rickarton; however, further research revealed that he worked as a gamekeeper in Fetteresso Forest, a poultry farmer, and a beekeeper.

 William had a family, one of whom was a son, also called William. William Alexander Bradley was born in 1920. It’s unclear what he worked as, but when he married Alice Westie in 1944, the register listed him as “engaged in war service.” Nobody can recall William being in the army or military service, which raises questions.