Category Letter | Letters from the Front

Sunday 27 September, 1914 by John Adams

Clandeboye Camp: “I think this is the first Sunday that I have ever been away from home all day”

C Company
7 Batt RIF
Clandyboye Camp
Co. Down

Sept 1914
[probably 27th Sept 1914 – first Sunday after John Adams enlisted 24 Sept. Very possibly his first letter home of WW1]

Dear Mother

Just a line hoping it will find you all in good health as it leaves us in the same at present. I think this is the first Sunday that I have ever been away from home all day and it’s very hard to say when I may be back for we are going to get the shift from here as soon as we get our uniform and I do not know when we may get home.

There is an awful lot of UV here and youse need not be afraid of so long as they are on the top of the earth. I wish you would hear them singing at night all the Orange songs of the day. We had Sir E Carson and the wife here yesterday and they inspected our lines. It is a wonderful life this we have to things here that we would not like to do at home. It is a queer change when Jimmie and I could not lie together 16 of us lying together here. Every man has to lie on his side and you can not turn to right or left but you need not think by telling you this that I do not like [it] for I fairly enjoy it.

And there is a lot here that we know. We see S Moffat every day and S Crozier boy [?] too. As soon as he heard that we were here he come to see us. And he sent a PC to Jennie in Hollywood [sic] as I did not know the address. We have a sergeant stopping in the tent with us and he is great fun. You might not care what you said to him as long as you were not on parade. But it is very hard to watch the Officers all for they are still knocking about.

You may excuse this scribble as we are writing on the grass so it is not very level. But if we were in the Barracks we would be al right. They were saying around here that we are for Portsmouth [?] and from that to Egypt but it might be some time to that yet.

I hope you will get this before you write as I sent the wrong address. But if you have it does not matter. You can tell all round there that I was asking for them. I hope Mrs McCombe is better now. You may tell Jimmie [that] they are starting a Number in the North Antrims. We had a great Church Parade today. I think this is all. Remember me to all at home.

I remain
Your loving son
J Adams

Wednesday 21 October, 1914 by John Adams

Bangor: “We are just in from a route march to Helen’s Bay and it has rained the whole way home”

Postmarked: 21 Oct 1914 Bangor, Co. Down

Dear Mother

I received your letter alright. I am sorr J has the cold. I am very afraid he would not stick this long. We are just in from a route march to Helen’s Bay and it has rained the whole way home. You need not think because I don’t write often that I have forgotten you but sometimes I have nothing to write about. We may put in a pass for Sunday week if we get away. Both our [arms?] are better and we are in the best of health. I think this is all now.

I remain your son

J. A.

Postcard shows painting of soldier and elderly mother as soldier bids farewell to her to join his comrades. “Duty and Honour Bid us Part”.

in 1914 - Mobilisation / Ireland / Letter / Postcard 0 comments

Thursday 31 December, 1914 by Thomas Davidson

France: “I am sorry to hear of W McKnight”

[YMCA paper]
[to Mrs J Adams, Lisadian]

7388 Lce Cpl T Davidson
Roy. Innis. Fusrs.
Caserne Traupel [Traupel Barracks]
Rouen
France

31.12.14

Dear Aunt

Just a few lines in answer to your kind and welcome letter, which I received alright and was pleased to see by it that youse are all enjoying good health. As for myself I am still enjoying the usual health and you know it has always been good, thank God for it. I am also pleased to hear of John getting home for a few days although it might be a while before he comes out here, and perhaps he may not have to come at all, but if he does I might see him somewhere. You might let me know what Regiment he belongs to and the date he expects to come out on.

I suppose he is the only one from about there that he knows, coming out. I am sorry to hear of W McKnight but as you say I must have been in the hospital for was talking to him the day before I got wounded and he was in good spirits and healthy. We were talking about you and all the people I knew around that way. I was asking him if he knew John and James. I will try and find out all about him although it will be difficult as those who were beside him might be away themselves. If you see them you might give them my heart-felt sympathy hoping they will soon get over their sad bereavement.

And as you say it was a dull Xmas. We will live with God’s help to enjoy a better one next year. I have not much more to say at present. Hoping this finds youse all in good health, I will close by bidding youse all good bye to I hear from you. Wishing youse all a prosperous New Year 1915.

From your ever loving nephew
T Davidson

[William McKnight was John Adams’s cousin, killed in 1914 – reference: History of Kingsmills Presbyterian Church. He is remembered on the Ploegsteert Memorial near Ypres.]

in 1914 - Mobilisation / France / Letter 0 comments

Monday 22 February, 1915 by John Adams

Holywood: “she made a great deal of me more than any girl I have met on the march”

D Company
9 Batt R. I. Fusiliers
Palace Barracks
Holywood

22.02.15

My Dear Mother

I am sorry that I was so long in writing but I had not time until now. We got back here on Thursday evening from Portadown. We had a fine time from we left Bessbrook. I suppose Annie and Jimmie got home alright. What did they think of the RIF? We got our dinner at Major Close’s house that day.

But the best day of all was spent in Tandragee. It was the best night I ever spent. I was stopping in the house where Eva McElney is Dressmaker and she made a great deal of me more than any girl I have met on the march. When I was leaving she gave to silk handkerchief and she has since sent me 2/6 worth of fegs [sic]. I think it was very nice of a strange girl that I may never meet again in this world. For we meet so many in this world in which we live that it is very hard for one to mind them all.

We are starting again on Thursday morning for Co Monaghan for a week there. It will hardly be as good as the one we are just off. I think this is all now. Jenny is well and will write later on. I will write from Cavan to you.

I remain
Your loving son
John Adams

in 1915 - Training / Ireland / Letter 2 comments

Thursday 4 March, 1915 by John Adams

Church Square, Monaghan

Postmark: 4 March 1915 Newtownards

Dear Mother

Just a line to say we have got back here again. We had not as good a time as the last but it was very good. I will write you a long letter when I get settled down. You might write and let me know how youse are all getting on. We are shifted to Newtownards now.

I remain
Your loving son
John Adams

D Company 9 Batt RIF
Newtownards
Co. Down

Postcard shows Church Square, Monaghan. The large Dawson Obelisk stands on the left foreground. A cannon stands in front of it. The church, with a tall spire, stands at the right background. A number of figures are milling about near the cannon, and two horse drawn carts travel along the road.

See the location today on Google Maps.

in 1915 - Training / Letter / Postcard 0 comments

Saturday 20 March, 1915 by John Adams

Newtownards: “It is simply lovely now like the summer time”

D Company
9 Batt R. I. Fus.
Newtownards
20.03.15

Dear Mother

Just a few lines to say I received your parcel this morning and what was inside. I thank you very much for it. The drawers is alright. I hope I may never worse [?]

The weather is greatly changed this last day. It is simply lovely now like the summer time. It does not be long in changing. I suppose the people are busy at their crops now. They have nearly all in about here now. It is a very early country about here. The ground is very sandy.

Tell Jimmy that I will write to him later and tell him all the news but I have not time now. He might write to me sometimes and tell me how he is getting on. Does ever he be at the Manse working now? I suppose he will put in the garden for Mr Jorrie this year. There’s many a change since last year this time but I hope they are all for the best. I hope the weather will keep like this for us going home. We don’t often get good weather for going home.

I think this is all now. I thank you again for your present.

I remain
Your loving son
John Adams

in 1915 - Training / 2010 upload / Ireland / Letter 0 comments

Saturday 27 March, 1915 by John Adams

Newtownards: “you may be sure that if we can get we will be home”

D Company
9 Batt R. I. Fusiliers
Newtownards
27.03.15

My Dear Mother

Just a line to say that I received your letter this morning. I am sorry that you are not getting better but maybe when the good weather you will be alright. I said when I wrote to Annie that we were going to be confined to camp, but I think that will not be to after Easter. And I am not giving it for truth but I think that we will be home from Friday to Monday but you need not be too much made up for we might not be home at all. But you may be sure that if we can get we will be home. I think that I will have as much £ and d as will bring me home.

I will write to you again before that and tell you wither I can get home or not. I think this is all now. We are having lovely weather now. I hope it will continue until after Easter.

I remain
Your loving son
John Adams

in 1915 - Training / Ireland / Letter 0 comments

Saturday 17 April, 1915 by John Adams

Newtownards: ” We are all getting our photos take in Batt tomorrow”

D. Company
9 Batt R. I. Fus
Newtownards

17.04.1915

My Dear Mother

Just a line today. I got your parcel this morning and was very thankful to you for what you sent. We are still confined to camp. I was just out once since we came back. There is nothing else that I want just now except if you could get me a box of [Zach Buk??] sometime Jimmy would be in Newry.

I hope you are keeping in good health as the weather is getting good again. We are all getting our photos take in Batt tomorrow. If I can I will get one for you though I may not be seen in it you will know that I am in it somewhere. Did Jimmy get the photos out of Newry yet where we were taken together? There is one for you, one for Mrs Moffatt and Mrs Crozier and there was to be one each sent to us.

I think that is all now. [Praying] we will all be spared to meet again.

I remain
Your loving son
John Adams

I thank you again for what you sent me. Perhaps you will hardly know now this is. I am sending you this little book.

Tell Annie to write to me now and again. It does one good to hear from home.

in 1915 - Training / 2010 upload / Ireland / Letter 0 comments

Friday 7 May, 1915 by John Adams

Training: “I expect it will be a very big day in Belfast tomorrow”

D Company
9 Batt R. I. Fus
Newtownards
07.05.15

My Dear Mother.

Just a line to say that I received your letter aright. I am sorry that I was so long in writing but we have been very busy this last few days. I expect it will be a very big day in Belfast tomorrow. We are leaving here at 6 am in the morning. I hope it does not be too warm.

I am glad you like the photo. It is not too well taken. You can see the Captain standing in front of me but I will show you them all when I go home. I will get you the other one too.

We intend going home on tomorrow week if we get and indeed to tell you the truth I would like if you would send me a few shillings before as we might be paid short on that day and the 3 shilling would not take me home. I am sorry to take it off you but if I was not going home I would not need it and it might be a good while [bef]or[e] we get home again and I will not may get the chance of getting any more photos of the Company and I would like to have them if we […] it would keep me in mind of the times we spent together. And if anything would happen to us you would have them to show. Jimmy might just be as well at home for there is going to be a very big crowd. I really wish it was over. It will be none [sic] pleasure for us.

I will write again before I go home. Excuse this writing as I am in a hurry. We are packing up for tomorrow. I think this is all now. I send my best love to all at home.

I remain
Your loving son
John Adams

Tell Jimmy I will write to him after Sat. I wish you would keep […] Belfast [Telegraph?] for me to I go home […] tomorrow’s parade will all be in it. I will take the other photo home with me as it might get broken sending it by post.

There was a major parade of the 36th Ulster Division through Belfast on 8 May 1915. More details from the Ulster Somme Association.

in 1915 - Training / 2010 upload / Ireland / Letter 0 comments

Thursday 13 May, 1915 by Jeannie Adams

Lusitania: “This is the steamer that was sunk on Friday”

Postmarked: Holywood, Co Down, 13 May 15

Dear Mother

I got your letter am sorry I could not get home. Now I hope you are well. Had a letter from J. This is the steamer that was sunk on Friday. Will write soon. Give my love to all.

Yours J Adams

Postcard shows ‘Cunard Liner “Lusitania”

in 1915 - Training / Letter / Postcard 0 comments

Saturday 19 June, 1915 by John Adams

Newtownards: “None of us knows what the future holds for us”

D Coy, 9th R. I. Fus, N. T. Ards
[undated letter, messier than the others, apparently pre-deployment, possibly 19 June 1915 based on references in the letter]

Dear Mother

Just a line hoping it still finds youse all enjoying good health, as this leaves me in the same here at present. I hope Annie and Jimmy got home all right from Newry. There was not a big crowd at the station this time. We are confined to camp since we came back on the Flying Galamm [?!] and I suppose will until we are shifted from here. And I don’t think that will be long now as far as I hear Sunday week at the latest. It may be a good while until we are all at home again and we may all expect changes for they are bound to come. None of us knows what the future holds for us. But let us all hope for the best. There will be no chance of seeing Jennie again before we move and there would be no use of her coming over here again for it would do none of us any good. I will write and tell Jimmy if we go by the main line if I get any word about it. I think this is all now.

Hoping to hear from you soon.
I remain
Your Loving Son
John Adams
Excuse this scribble as I am in a hurry.
You might tell Jimmy to write now and again to tell us how he is getting on.
This is all now. It is well it was not away.

in 1915 - Training / Ireland / Letter 0 comments

Monday 12 July, 1915 by John Adams

Seaford: “All the bands in camp turned out this morning”

Seaford Camp, Sussex
[undated, but probably 12 July 1915]

Dear Jimmy

By the time this reaches home you will have both days over you and I hope from my heart that they were good days for you. All the bands in Camp turned out this morning and it would have done you good to think that though we are here we have not forgot the days that are past. There is to be a meeting in the YMCA tonight at 6.30. They are expecting 10-000 Orangemen[?unclear] to be present. You might write me a line after all is over and let me know everything passed off.

J Adams

in 1915 - Training / England / Letter 0 comments

Friday 30 July, 1915 by Jack

Seaford: “We had a big inspection by Lord Kitchener on Tuesday”

D. Coy
9th Batt. R. Ir. Fus.
Seaford Camp
Sussex
England
[undated]

Dear Mrs Adams

Just a line to let you know I received your letter alright, thanks very much for the same. You need not be expecting a letter from Johnie [sic] for a few days as he has strained his thumb and will not be able to write for some time until the swelling goes down. But he is in the best of health only for that.

We had a big inspection by Lord Kitchener on Tuesday and he was very pleased with the Division. He says if we had our ball-firing over we would be fit to go any place.

I suppose all is going on as usual over there and some people getting married and people dying and all the people working on as usual.

Y here there is not much strange going on here at present we are just fooling about at the same old thing as when we were in Ireland. I have no news to tell you at present but may-be I will have more the next time.

I think I will close for the present. Tell Annie and Jimmie I will send them p-c’s later as I have not time to write them now.

With best love to all
I remain
Your sincere friend
Jack

Date evidence: Lord Kitchener inspected the 36th Ulster Division on Tuesday 27 July 1915. This letter was presumably written a few days afterwards.

in 1915 - Training / England / Letter 0 comments

Wednesday 18 August, 1915 by John Adams

Seaford: “I was up in Brighton on Saturday. It surely is a lovely place”

[For God, King & For Country]
[YMCA]
[HM Forces on Active Service]

D Company
9th RIF
Seaford Camp
Sussex
Sunday 18.08.1915

Dear Mother

Just a line to say I received your letter alright. Hoping this will find youse all in good health as it leaves me in the same at present. I am sorry that I was so long in writing but indeed I thought I had written. I hope Jennie will have a good time at home and get good weather. I am sure she has need of a rest. You can tell her I will write to her as soon as I get time perhaps tomorrow. Well Dear Mother I need not buoy you up with false hope, but if every thing goes well you may have a chance of seeing us again before we leave England. Some of the U. D. [Ulster Division?] has got it already. 7 days leaves. But when our turn comes I do not know. It may not for a month yet but it would mean 4 clear days at home. Of course you need not depend on it for so many things can happen. Well I got my photos taken but they were that much changed that you do not know me from someone else. So I will not get them taken until we go home and then get them taken right. For these got the five [?]

I got the stamps many thanks for them. I am sorry to hear of you been sick but I hope you are better by this time. I was up in Brighton on Saturday. It surely is a lovely place. They Promenade is 5 miles from one end to the other. The lights goes out there at 8 o’clock and the place is in total darkness afterwards.

Tell Annie and Jimmy that I will write to them all. Jimmy might write to me some times. This is a photo for Jimmy of all the units in the 36th Division represented. I think this is all now.

I remain
Your loving son
John Adams

Excuse this scribble in haste.

This little brooch is for Annie. I will get you something later on.

in 1915 - Training / 2010 upload / England / Letter 0 comments

Saturday 11 September, 1915 by John Adams

Bordon Camp: “Let us all pray that we may all meet in a happier place when all wars will have ceased”

“D” Company, 9th Roy. Irish Fus., Martinique Barracks, Bordon, Hants, England
11-9-15

My Dear Mother

I received your parcel allright. Many thanks. But indeed I did not expect what you sent, and I am sorry that I passed the remark that I had no stamps, for I think that you wanted and has need of all the money that you get. And my saying that I had no stamps did not mean taht I wanted you to send me any money. But indeed I never thought of the likes: so you might not have thought that I would be angry at you for sending me any more. So you know your self that I would not be angry no matter how little you would send. All I was angry at was you sending any at all. I got the paper it must have been sudden about old John MacCormick was he long sick? But he was an old man. I had a letter from Jenney this morning she says that she has been very busy since she went away from home. I am writing to her also today.

Well dear Mother I may as well tell you the truth: all leave is cancelled, so there is no chance of us getting home again before going out. Which I think will not be long now about the 20th of the month. But I hope this will not make you any worse than what you all. You knew it would come to it sooner or later. So it need not come as a surprise to you any more. And if I do not have the Good Fortune to come back again, let us all pray that we may all meet in a happier place when all wars will have ceased, and there shall be no more trouble or sorrow.

But let me get away from this as it will do none of us any good. And what ever happens let us hope it may be for the best as we are all in a Good Man’s Hand and he knows all our hopes and fears. But thank God if I do not come back all belonging to me can hold their heads up for I have done my duty and shall do so no matter what it may cost me so youse will have nothing to be ashamed of.

This is a lovely part of the country and is great for Route Marching. You would never feel tired on the road.

There is about 20 shops in the village of Bordon which is about 5 minutes from camp and a Picture House. Of course there are all the camp stores built for the men in camp here. The range here was made by German prisoners. And this camp was opened by the Kaiser[?] but I think I told you that before.

I must draw to a close as I am going on duty tonight.

Good bye and may God Bless and take care of youse all
I remain
Your Loving Son
John Adams
P.S. You might send me Lizzies address as I would like to write to her.

in 1915 - Training / England / Letter 2 comments

Sunday 3 October, 1915 by John Adams

Southampton: “We will get to France sometime at 7.30 tomorrow morning”

[undated]
Southampton
Sunday

My Dear Mother

We have arrived here on our way out. We left Bordon last night at 11.30 arrived here at 2 o’clock and will not leave here until 7 o’clock tonight.

We will get to France sometime at 7.30 tomorrow morning. I sent home a small parcel. I suppose you will get it alright. I hope youse are all keeping in good health, as this leaves me in the best of spirits at present.

Will write as soon as I get time. This is a fine dock. This is where all the soldiers go from to the front. Remember me to Annie and Jimmy. Tell them I will write soon to them.

I remain
Your loving son
[Johnnie]

Date evidence: 9th Bn R.I.F. arrived in France at 6.30 am on 4 October 1915, according to Maj John George Brew’s account.

in 1915 - France / England / Letter 0 comments

Thursday 7 October, 1915 by John Adams

France: “We have got over safe”

Somewhere in France
07.10.15

My Dear Mother

Just a few lines to let you know I am still in good health hoping this will find youse all at home the same. We have got over safe. And the people that we are in amongst are very nice and would do anything for us at all. The only thing we cannot get any ciggireets [sic] to buy and I would like very much if you could send me a few and a lighter. Jimmy can get it in Newry for a few pence as we cannot get matches either.

This is all I have time for now. Hoping [Annie] and Jimmy is well. Will write later on.

I remain
Your loving son
John

[on the reverse of the same piece of paper]

D Company
9th Roy. Irish Fusiliers
108 Infantry Bde
36 Ulster Div
Brit Expd Force
France

I received your letter tonight but I had not time to read it before the post. Will answer it later.

Location evidence from Major Brew’s account.

in 1915 - France / 2010 upload / France / France 1915-1916 / Letter 0 comments

Tuesday 19 October, 1915 by Jeannie Adams

Jeannie: “Poor Johnnie, I am sure he is lonely”

Church Hill
Holywood
Co. Down

19 Oct 1915

My Dear Mother,

This is just a wee line to say I had a postcard from Johnnie this morning to say he got my parcel alright. Yours had not arrived when he wrote. He said he had not heard from home for a good while but I am sure he has all by now. He got a pair of socks from Mrs Meeke. It was very good of her sending them. I was thinking of sending him an apple cake and some nuts [sic] for Halloweve. Poor Johnnie, I am sure he is lonely. I have wrote him a good long letter. Mr Chambers says it’s wonderful how much good a letter from home does them, how it brightens them up. I hope Johnnie will come back safe. I hope Mother Dear you are not fretting too much. I know it’s very hard to keep from it and I think they are in great danger sometimes but God can take care of him there as well as at home and all we can do is pray for him.

I hope you are all well. I will write longer next time. I had a letter from T Davidson. He says he is coming home and he is to leave Rouen this week. I hope Johnnie’s hands are getting better. Tell him to be good to that stuff, there is 5 pence worth in it.

Give my love to all and write soon,

I remain your loving daughter,
Jeannie
Write soon.

in 1915 - France / France 1915-1916 / Letter 0 comments

Thursday 21 October, 1915 by SW Chambers

SW Chambers: “John has got much fatter and firmer looking”

[on YMCA writing paper]

S.W. Chambers

YMCA
BFPO I
BEF

Oct 21st 1915

Dear Mrs Adams

I just want to let you know that some little time ago – about a fortnight ago – I saw John [blacked out sentence follows – censor?] He and Robt. Crozier’s son came into our tent one evening and were surprised to find me. I was plsd to see them. They were both fit and well. John has got much fatter and firmer looking. Experience and responsibility are doing him good. He looks every inch a man and I have no doubt he will do credit to himself wherever he goes. You may make your mind easy as to that. They were in the best of spirits. They have now moved away from my neighbourhood… [rest of letter missing]

[Presumably written by S.W. Chambers to Mary Jane Adams. We believe the author to be Rev. Samuel Waugh Chambers of First Holywood Presbyterian Church, Co. Down. He was the employer of John Adams’ sister Jeannie, and had been a minister at Cremore Presbyterian Church near Poyntzpass from 1898-1907. The YMCA notepaper may mean that Rev. Chambers was working for the YMCA, and this is further indicated by a Medal Record card on Ancestry.co.uk. (needs an account to link to this, unfortunately).

Location evidence: Major Brew’s account indicates that the 9th Bn R.I.F. were in Rainneville around this time.]

in 1915 - France / 2010 upload / France / France 1915-1916 / Letter 0 comments

Saturday 23 October, 1915 by John Adams

France: “No less than 5 shells has burst beside me since I started to write”

Somewhere in France
23.10.15

My Dear Mother

Just a line to let you know that I am still alive and well. Hoping this finds all at home the same. I received all the parcels that you sent to me. None of them is opened at least I get all you send and many thanks for what you have sent me. Some day I may be able to repay you. We are up here in the trenches these last few days. I am writing this letter on the side of the trench. No less than 5 shells has burst beside me since I started to write. One may get used to rifle bullets and does, but you never can get used to the shells. They make such an awful noise. I hope all at home are well. Tell Jimmy that I will write a long letter as soon as we are relieve[d] for a rest. But thank him from me for the razor. And tell him I shall never forget him for it and to be good to yourself and to thank God for his bed every night he lies down for many a poor fellow out here would give their life for one night in bed. I have to stop now as I have to take my section up to the fire trench again. We were relieve[d] for a few hours. Write soon.
I remain your loving son John

Location information: from Major John George Brew’s account. This was the first week of action that the 9th Bn R.I.F. saw.

in 1915 - France / France / France 1915-1916 / Letter 0 comments

Friday 19 November, 1915 by John Adams

France: “Nothing but the overwhelming force of men will ever bring the war to a close”

19.11.1915

My Dear Mother

I have a few minutes to myself so I thought I would spend them in writing home. Sometimes I have not time to write a letter but I send a card every week. I got you parcel alright. Many thanks for what you sent to me. But as I said in my card you need not send anything out here in the line of clothes for we get plenty of things out here in the line of shirts or underwear. I hope you are got alright by his time. I think you are felting [fretting] too much and it won’t do you any good for I am alright out here. And if anything happens to me you will have the satisfaction of knowing that I have done whatever I could to keep the Germans back and I think for each man that falls out here there should be two sent out. Nothing but the overwhelming force of men will ever bring the war to a close. And I wonder that anyone can sit at home that can come out here and see this war going on and does not help to bring it to a finish.

I suppose Jimmy is busy every day. Is all the potatoes is all out [?] by this time. The weather is got very wet out here now. Was Tommy up yet or is he home? I suppose he will hardly stop on. He has done his share. When everyone has done as much the war is over. Jack is in good health. Him and I are still together. I think this is all I have tome for now. Hoping it will find all at home in good health as it leaves me in the same here at present.

I remain
Your loving son
John Adams

in 1915 - France / 2010 upload / France / France 1915-1916 / Letter 0 comments

Sunday 19 December, 1915 by John Adams

France: “We are likely to take our Xmas dinner in the trenches this year”

19.12.15
Somewhere in France

My Dear Mother

I am sorry that I have been so long in writing to you but I could not help it. I received your letter and card. Many thanks for same. I am glad you liked the little card I send. They are a rare thing out here and we would give any money for them. And I may tell you the French people know how to put their price on them when they know that you want them.

You need not be a bit sorry at not being able to send me any parcel for Xmas for I think I have had my share of them. I had two from Jennie and two from Louis Morton and one from Mrs Meeke and Xmas cards from the world over. I had also a letter from Mr Torrie [?] saying that he had got one of my photos and how glad he was to get it. Also giving me great praises for […] what I call nothing but doing my duty.

Jennie was telling me about that book she sent to you […] got that little piece of paper that is the section that I am in charge of No. 3. Jack is also in it. So we are always together and I hope we may get home together but I am afraid of it this time as I will have to toss up for [it] this time. I do not want to give you too much hope but if all goes and we are spared we might get a race home in the New Year. But its only might no more.

I think Jimmy might write and let me know how all is going on. He did not happen to tell us that they had a dance in Knockavannon in connection with the Black Number. But we got tickets for it out here. I think it would not have done him much harm to have let us know as we used to belong to it at one time.

Today is fine and there is a change for we have had very cold and wet weather this last while. But I believe they are having snow in Warrenpoint and I hope it does not come our way as God knows we are bad enough without it. We are likely to take our Xmas dinner in the trenches this year. But we are as contented as well there as any place else. In fact I would rather be in them as out as the time passes more quickly in them.

I am glad you have got alright again but the weather is against you getting well quickly.

Tell Annie I will write to her soon. I got her card and handkerchief. Many thanks [to] her for the same.

I think I must draw to a close as we are on duty today and I have no more thus you may excuse this scribble. I will write soon again.

I am sending you a little bit of paper with Queen Mary’s own handwriting on it we got in a pair of mittens just as a keepsake from France.

I remain
Your loving son
John Adams

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Wednesday 22 December, 1915 by Jeannie Adams

Jennie: “They say their shirts are just living and they are over run with rats”

Church Hill
Holywood
Co. Down
22 Dec. 1915

My Dear Mother

This is just a wee line to say I am sending you these things. I’m sorry I have not got more to send. I hope this wee shawl will please you. They next size was 7s6d it was too dear just now. I hope you will put it on and wear it. I will get you a new one when it’s done.

I had a long letter from Johnnie yesterday. He is well and enjoyed all in the parcels. He wrote a very nice letter to Mrs Trimble thanking her for the trench cooker. Mr Trimble said they were two of the nicest letters ever he read. They think the like of him is not living. He said he was thankful for all in the parcels but he was gladdest to see the trench ointment than all I sent. It kills the vermin and cools their skin. They say their shirts are just living and they are over run with rats. I saw in the paper where they have sent 2 thousand dogs from Paris up to the trenches. He says sometimes they sleep in haylofts, sometimes in gateways, but he says the people have been better to him since he went away than ever they were before.

He had a long letter from Mr Tovie [?] and Cissie Morton sent him a parcel but it was lost on the way. He will be very lonely this Christmas. He says Jack and J McCullough [?] and he are together all the time. He says they all had this tea together as soon as my parcels arrived. I am glad I can help to ease their burden a wee bit.

I had a letter from wee John Mateer on Sunday. He says he’s going to write to his Granny again for she is lonely. I sent him a nice book. I hope he won’t tear it. I gave Minnie Crozier a nice wee pair of shoes and socks for the baby and a big ball for Samuel. She was awfully pleased. She was not bad to Johnnie. She is always glad to see me. She’s never long in getting a drop of tea ready anyway.

Now I think this is all. I hope you are better. Johnnie says if anything was to happen to you he does not know what we would do. I must tell you I hear today that Mr Chambers and Mr Archer [?] are both leaving their churches. I heard they were going to America to start Business [sic]. If it is true I think it is a shame.

Tell Annie I am sorry I have not much for her. She might be able to wear this blouse if they were washed. Would the coloured one be any good to you? I hope she will like the wee handkerchief. I hope Jimmie will like the cigarettes. I am sorry I have nothing better, but I have put nearly all the money I had in Johnnie’s parcel. I think he needs all we can give him.

I hope you will excuse this [scribble]. I hope you will be able to read this but I am in a hurry. It will be a lonely Christmas for us all this time, but God has been good to Johnnie for so far and I hope he will bring him home safe. I wish you all a Merry Christmas. I hope the New Year will be brighter than last year’s.

With best love
I remain
Your loving daughter
Jeannie

Write soon.

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Tuesday 11 January, 1916 by John Adams

France: “I do not believe the Germans has made the bullet that is to kill me yet.”

BEF Somewhere in France
11.01.16

My Dear Mother

Just a few lines hoping this will find you and all at home in your usual good health as this leaves me in the same here at present. I cannot understand how it was that you have got no letters from me so long as Annie PC says for there I not a week passes that I do not write home, and there must be some mistake that you do not get them. I think this is the third letter that I wrote since Xmas and Annie says that you have got none of them. But you may have got them before this. I hope you are got all right again yourself. I was very sorry to hear that you were so bad with pains but it has been a very severe winter all though. But thank Goodness it has cleared up at last and it’s getting like Spring out here now. I think it comes sooner here than in Ireland.

We are on our way once more to the trenches and have arrived in a little village a short distance of the Firing Line which I expect we shall be in by the time you get this. But do not be in the least alarmed as for our safety as I do not believe the Germans has made the bullet that is to kill me yet at least I believe so at any rate. I had a letter from Jennie and she said also that she had a letter from you tell her that you got no letters from me and also that she had none from me either, and I do wonder where they are going. I believe Mr Chambers and Archer is leaving Holywood to go to America to make there fortunes it is a wonderful thing to be going to do and this terrible war going on. They will have plenty of time for that when this war is over. For I think there will be few men left after it is over the way it is going.

Tell Jimmy I am sorry for anything I said in my last letter. I do not mean all I say but I believe I write home as often as I get any from it. Sometimes I think that youse forget about me out here. You may think long not to get a letter form me but its worst on us out here when we do not hear from home. For at home youse are all there together and in a civilized world. While we are not. And only through letters can we know how things are going on at home. So do not get on to me too much when you as not get a letter from me when you know that I have written.

We are still together and are with J. McCullough who is from Bessbrook and we had a great Xmas together. For we got all sorts of parcels the three of us and the way we messed together they lasted for a long time. I got about 12 parcels myself from all over the country. I got a great parcel from L Morton and also one from Mrs Moody of Tandragee where I stopped when we were on the route march. I think I was telling you about her the time I was home. I also got a great muffler from L Morton through Mrs Hall of Narrow Water who undertook to pay all expenses on Comforts that was sent to any of the Ulster Division from Warrenpoint. So I was very well done for.

I think I must draw to a close hoping once again that you are got all right. Am hoping to hear from you soon again.

I remain
Your Loving Son

John Adams

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Tuesday 18 January, 1916 by John Adams

France: “We will be like tarred roofs when we get home.”

B E Force, Somewhere in France
18.01.16

My Dear Mother

I now take the pleasure of writing a few lines hoping they will find yourself and all at home in your usual good health as this leaves me in the same out here at the time of writing. I have got your parcel just now. Many thanks for same, and I had your letter the day before yesterday. Well dear Mother you need not trouble about sending me anything out here as it costs you to much and I may tell you straight we do not want for anything out here as we get an issue of cigarettes every week and the Mount Norris people has been good enough for to forward us another issue. And then we have an Army canteen in the Regt then we can get nearly anything we want. So you need not mind bothering you head about sending me anything out here.

Of course I do not want you to be angry or take anything to you of what I say. I thank you from my heart for what you have sent me out but you have little enough for yourselves without paying the heavy postage that is on at present. I am sure that you were glad to see Jimmy when he came up. Is he much changed or did his wounds affect him in any way. I am sure he did not say much about the times he had. That is not a soldiers way of doing anything.

I had a letter from Jennie telling me about Mr Chambers leaving but I think I named it in my last letter. I am glad you are getting my letters now. I was very sorry when I heard that you were not getting them for there is not a week that passes that I do not write home. But dear Mother so not take it so about the leave. We might land in some night before you know. They do not let everybody out here what they are doing. So do not get down hearted about it.

[has] Johny Elliott come back to live at the crossroads – he does not like to stay long in the one place. The weather has got better now and there is not many out here that will be sorry about that for the wet weather is not very pleasant out here. But no matter we are well hardened to it now. We will be like tarred roofs when we get home. But you need not be uneasy about us for I think the German bullet was is not made yet that is to kill me. So do not say anymore about it.

What is the matter with Davy Patton. I am very afraid there is some of the boys that talked so much would not stand roughing it very long out here. The wet cold weather would kill them if they never saw a German. yes Louie Morton has been good to me. And I would be most ungrateful to her if I would forget her for it, which I have no thought of doing. I think I have not much more to say tonight. Only to thank you again for your parcel. So goodnight and God take care of all at home until we meet again.

I remain
Your Loving Son
John Adams
Please do not take it ill anything I said in my last letter as I may have been angry at the time.
This is a small mirror for Annie. Tell her she must blow her breath out before she uses it and see the result. I am sorry I have not time to write to her but I shall do so as soon as I get time.
J. Adams
Tell Annie I will write as soon as I get time but I cannot get the time just now as I am writing to Jimmy.

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Monday 20 March, 1916 by John Adams

France: “Each man being given a sprig of shamrock which we all enjoyed having very much.”

Somewhere in France
20.3.16

My Dear Mother

Just a few lines to let you know that I am still in good health. Hoping this will find yourself and all at home in the same. I am very sorry that I have been so long in writing to you, but it was not my fault. As we have bee rather busy since I came back. So you cannot have much time to yourself for letter writing. But as you know I send a card at least once a week. And sometimes its all I have time for. Well I got back safe at any rate after some knocking about. Which none of us enjoyed but we had to put up with it.

The weather is excellent just now. And I hope it continues as the trenches are in a better state owing to the good weather. And I may tell you we are up against enough without wadeing to the knees in water.

Well I have got all your letters and parcel since I came back alright and I must thank you for your parcel. I have also written to thank J Morton for herâ€™s which was a beautiful pocket book. Well we got the 17th over which was given to us as a holiday, being out of the trenches at the time. Each man being given a sprig of shamrock which we all enjoyed having very much. One has to be away from Ireland for a while before they can understand what it is to get something from it. And no wonder those away relish getting a sprig of shamrock so much. And when my feet touched the platform at Dundalk on our homeward journey I thought new life had entered my body that is what it is like to be away from home.

I got your card and Annieâ€™s last night. But tell Annie she need not put Cpl on the letters as I have not got my appointment yet I could have got it again in another Coy but refused it again. As I told you I do not want to leave where I am and no room in our Company for a full Cpl yet. So she need not put it on until I tell her.

Well I think this is all I have time for now but as long as you know I am alright.

Goodbye.
I remain
Your Loving Son

John

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Friday 31 March, 1916 by John Adams

France: “You did your best to do me out of my girl.”

Somewhere in France
31.3.16

Dear Jimmy

I am writing too them all so I could not leave you out. How are you getting on since I came away. I believe you were at that Orange Ball at Bessbrook. And did your best to do me out of my girl. Mind I am telling you. You had better keep clear of that quarter of the town. Although I am out in France, there is nothing goes passed that I do not hear off. But no matter I think it would take you all your time too knock me out.

Did you see J. McCullough when he was at home. I did not think you knew him. But if you do you know a Gentleman. One that any man might wish to have as a friend. I believe youse have had a great fall of snow. Last week we had one about the same time. But there is no trace of it now. It does not stay long in this country now. Well you need not take it angry at what I said it was only a joke. Jennie[?] was telling me that she was talking to you at the dance. And what a fine fellow you were. She said you were nearly as good as your Big Brother, but seemed to have more to say (I donâ€™t think [?]). I think I must stop or you may not answer it. But I hope you do as I would like to hear your way about it. No more at present.

I remain
Your Loving Brother

Johnnie

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Sunday 16 April, 1916 by Jeannie Adams

Jeannie: “Holywood is all darkened now the street lamps are not lit”

Church Hill

Holywood

Co. Down

16^th April 1916

My Dear Mother

I am very sorry I have been such a time in writing but I could not help it. I have been so busy. I think I never did as much work in my life. As I have done this last week. We have got all the cleaning done. We just got done last night, and I am tired. There was a woman in only three days. I did the rest myself. I was down in Holywood last night after I got finished. I met the Croziers. The first thing Sara asked me was I sick. She said I never looked as sick looking. But I am glad to get finished.

I hope you are all well. Had you any word from Johnnie lately. I had none all week. I wrote to him last Sunday. I told him I was going to send him a parcel but I had not time to do it. Would you send him one for Easter? I am sure he will be lonely. I hope we will hear from him soon.

Has Sammy Moffatt been home yet? I forgot to tell you that last week the Lough was full of ships. Mr Trimble said he counted 19. There was German submarines in the Channel. These ships were guarded by a warship. I think the[y] have caught one of the submarines. I wish it was all over. It seems to get worse. Holywood is all darkened now the street lamps are not lit and any that are are covered halfway down. The shopkeepers are not allowed to put lights in their windows. The times are getting worse.

Well, Bangor Rd Church has got settled. Mr Woodburn is to be installed in Bangor Rd on Thursday. First everyone seems to like him. The service is at 12 o’clock on Thursday. I am going to it. There is a social at night.

You wanted to know could I get home for Easter. I would just love to go, but there is no use trying. It would only start a row. I might get later on. I hope you are all well. Write me a long letter soon. I think this is all now. Excuse this scrawl. Any more word from Lizzie? She is a cool one.

Give my best love to all.

I remain

Your loving daughter

Jeannie Adams

Write soon to me.

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Tuesday 25 April, 1916 by Unknown

Vickers gun teams to Belfast

The[re] is rough times in Belfast at present. There is 4 Vickers gun teams left camp today for it. But we will not be going there as there is too many Belfast men in this platoon.

Unknown author, unknown date, sent to someone in the Read family, Searce. Could this be around the time of the Easter Rising? Discuss.

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Thursday 27 April, 1916 by Jeannie Adams

Jennie: “I was thinking of poor Johnnie. He was here this time last year.”

Church Hill
Holywood
Co. Down

27 April 1916

My Dear Annie

Thanks very much for letter and card, which I got alright. I hope you are all quite well. I suppose Easter was very quiet. Well I was at church twice on Sunday. The soldiers were at the morning service. There was a good many. I was thinking of poor Johnnie. He was here this time last year.

I saw Lizzie Crozier and Annie and Sara on Saturday night. They asked me down to Annie’s on Monday so Sara came up for me in the afternoon and we went round the shore. The tide was full in and it was lovely. Leonard [?] Brown was down. He isn’t a bad wee chap at all. I was talking to him a good while. He was telling me all the news about home. He says his father is very ill. He was in a bad way about him. He said he wanted Jimmie and Davie Crozier to come with him. I wish Jimmie had come. They all went up to town about five. They wanted me to go with them but I did not go. I wonder did he get home. Sometimes the Croziers are not bad. They always ask me to go with them if they are for Minnie’s [?] or anywhere.

I think this is near about all as it’s near bedtime. I hope you will write me a good long letter soon. Has Jimmie the potatoes all in yet? The weather has been nice this last few days. Was Thomas Moffat home at Easter? I don’t think any of the Coy got any leave. They might later on. Write soon. Give my love to all.

I remain

Your loving Sister

Jeannie

Write soon

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Thursday 27 April, 1916 by Jeannie Adams

Jeannie: ” expect you heard all about the fighting in Dublin, wasn’t it dreadful?”

Church Hill
Holywood
Co. Down

27 April 1916

My Dear Mother,

This is just a wee line to say I am well. I hope you got my letter and paper on Monday. Wasn’t the weather very wet for Easter? This last few days has been nice. I hope you are all well. Is your pains gone yet? I hope so. Had you any word from Johnnie lately. I have had none for a long time. I hope he is well. I think they are having a very hard time. I expect you heard all about the fighting in Dublin, wasn’t it dreadful? It’s coming very near us. That was 10,000 soldiers sent from England and a lot from Belfast. I heard there was a bridge blown up so that the train can’t reach Dublin. I hope they won’t start in Belfast. I know 3 girls that went to Dublin on Monday, and they have not arrived home yet. I am glad there is no one belonging to us in it. They say there is a lot killed and wounded. I think youse are fairly safe out there. I wish it was all over. What does the Crawlies [?] say about it? Are they for it? The volunteers around here have all been called up.

We have got our new minister settled. He seems very nice. He was preaching on Sunday night himself and the church was packed. I never saw so many people in it before, and everyone seemed to like him. He has had a wedding and a funeral. He is only there a week today. He is to start visiting soon.

Had you any word from Lizzie lately? How is she getting on? It was very good of you sending me the wee card. I thank you all for it. If you get any word from Johnnie will you write soon and let me know.

Gordon Copeland was telling me he was up at Tullyhappy on Tuesday. He says when he was coming back at night he had to wait at Goraghwood from 7.30 till 9 o’clock before he could get a train. Maybe it was just as well I was not home. If you don’t hear from Johnnie don be too annoyed because there is very few boats running. They may not be abile to get the mails [sic] across.

I think this is all now. I wll send you a paper. Write me a good long letter soon. Give my best love to all. I remain your loving daughter,

Jeannie

Write soon to me.

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Saturday 29 April, 1916 by John Adams

France: “The Germans kept quiet all day on Easter Sunday.”

Somewhere in France, British Exped Force
29.04.16

My Dear Mother

I am so sorry that I have been so long in writing to you, but I was waiting on getting the parcel that you said in your letter you were sending got to me. So I only got it last night. That is something like 10 days it took it coming, and it only takes a letter 4 days. So you will understand why I was so long in writing. Well to start with I must thank you for what you sent to me in your parcel. You are so awful good to me. I do not know how I will ever repay you. All in the parcel was all right. There was nothing gone astray. You must have spent some time in packing it.

Well we have got Easter over such as it was. You would not have known that it was Easter. Only the Germans kept quiet all day on Sunday but they gave us a few shells on Monday, which our fellows paid back in dead earnest. But its just the same every day. I wonder how far the end off. There is not many out here would care it was all over tomorrow. The weather is still keeping good it is like summer today and I hope it continues for the wet weather is not very pleasant. I suppose the people at home are busy putting in the crop. Have you got the garden in yet. You can put my share in I will be home before they are dug. Well I must thank you again for your parcel which we enjoyed very much as it was a change from the loaf bread and I think I must now draw to a close as I must write to Annie tonight but I will not be long in writing to you again.

I remain
Your Loving Son

John Adams

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Saturday 13 May, 1916 by John Adams

France: “I suppose by this time you will think me dead.”

Somewhere in France
13.05.16

My Dear Mother

Just a few lines, now that I am able to write once more, to let you know that I am getting on alright. Hoping yourself and all at home are still keeping in your usual Good Health. I suppose by this time you will think me dead, but thank Goodness I am still on the land of the living.

After I got wounded the Chaplin promised to write to you and tell you and so did Jack. Did they do so. You see I have not got a letter since then. And I may tell you that many a time I wondered how youse were getting on at Home. And many a time I was very sorry that I could not write to let you know how I was doing.

But as my hand is getting alright I will try and explain to you how it happened. It was on Monday night the 1st of May. And we were out of the Trenches at the time. But the Batt that we were doing reserves to was supposed to be attacked. And we got orders to go up to support them. it was about 10 oclock at night and very dark. And when ourside our quarters the Order was given to load up our rifles. So I happened to be rather late getting out and when I got out I was standing side ways to where the men were, when one of them by accident let of a round. The bullet passing through my rifle and exploding it in my left hand. The splinters tearing the whole heart out of my hand. I had to go through two operations for to get them out. It did feel sore I may tell you. But you not be uneasy as I am getting alright now, as I have the worse of it over me. And it might have been far worse if I had lost my hand.

The weather is still keeping very wet now it is simply pouring today. I suppose it is much the same at home. How is Annie and Jimmy getting on. I am sorry I cannot write to them as all my writing paper is in my rucksack and this is all I have got with me. But I may tell you many a time when lying here I thought often about youse all. And I did not know how youse were doing as I did not get a letter from anyone since I got wounded. That is nearly a fortnight today. I wish my hand was better until I would get out again as I am fed up knowcking about and not getting any letters to know how all is getting on.

I believe all the riots in Dublin is settled and near time too. If they would come out heere they would get plenty of fighting to do, without starting at hhome. If the poor fellows had the [?] and stuff that they destroyed out here they would be glad of it. But its as well that they put an end to it.

I think I must draw to a close as my hand pains me still when I use it too much. Excuse this horrible scribble. I now close hoping soon to hear from you.

I remain
Your Loving Son

John Adams

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Sunday 21 May, 1916 by John Adams

France: “But my hand was so long in healing up.”

BEF, Somewhere in France
21.05.16

My Dear Mother

I am sorry that I have been so long in writing to you again. But I was waitin in the hope that I might get a letter, but another day has passed and still no sign of any. So I have given up hope of getting any of them until I rejoin my Regt and I hope that will not be long now, I am still in hospital, the same one as I in the last time I wrote home. I thought at that time that I would have been out by this time. But my hand was so liong in healing up the Doctor though that there must still be some of the splinters in it. So he had to open it up again, and got one in the heart of my hand. So it was put as far back as ever. Only it has nothing to do now but heal up. And by the time you get this letter I will be back at my duty again.

Many a time I lie and wonder how youse are all getting on at home. But I hope youse are all still in your usual good health. I know it is not your fault at home that I am not getting any letters. They come all right to the Batt – where they are endorsed ‘Hospital’ and sent away again. And the letters may go back home again for all I know or I suppose fro all the care so long as they get rid of them.

They are very nice fellows in this hospital. I knew some of them since we were in Clandeboye. And they were in Newry for some time, about the time that we were on the Route March through the Co Armagh. I am telling you this to let you know that I am not altogether among strangers as you may suppose. I was talking to Sammie Moffat about a week ago. He came to see me. He is just the same. I need not tell you I was glad to see him. It was like a breath from home to talk to him. Those at home cannot realise how much good it does one to meet someone they know out here. It brings fond memories of happier days.

the weather still keeps good and is is most pleasant. I hope the weather at home is also fine. We will so be into the summer months again. I wonder what it will hold for each of us. It may bring sorrow for some and joy for others. But I suppose what ever comes it will be for the best and we will have to put up with it. It is all in a good man’s hand and he knows what is best for each of us. So we will have to leave it at that.

Tell Annie and Jimmy that I was asking for them. I hope that they are both in good health, as well as yourself. You can tell them I will write to them as soon as I get back to duty. But this is all the writing papoer I have got until I get back. My store of envelopes has run done. If you are writing to Jennie you may tell her that I am getting on all right. I cannot get writing to her now, but shall do so as soon as I get back. I am sending Jimmy a couple of cuttings out of an old newspaper. He might like them. I think this is about all so I must draw to a close. Hoping to hear from you soon.

Good night
I remain
Your Loving Son
John Adams

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Friday 20 October, 1916 by John Adams

Board of Docs: “I was put back for further treatment”

20.10.16

My Dear Mother

I am sorry I have been so long in writing to you but it was not my fault as I thought I had written to you and I was wondering why I never heard from you. I was thinking long to hear from you when I got your letter saying that you had not heard from me. Well I hope yourself and all at home are still in good health and I hope Annie is quite better and that Jimmy is not working too hard.

I am getting on here alright. I am liking the place better than I did at the first. There was a Board of Docs here some time ago and a lot of men was passed fit and send back to their units. But I was put back for further treatment so I do not know now when I may get away from here. But you need not be uneasy about me as I am alright. I think I will get a pass sometime and go home to see youse. But it means a lot of money. It would take 15′ [15 shillings?] to take me to Bessbrook station at half fare.

[the copy of the second page is cut off on the rhs]
…need not expect me to go home very often…nothing I want you to send me. I thank you …for what you have sent me. I shall not …and the rest for it. Do you know did…a woollen jacket that Jennie knit for … home any time I was there. I cannot think…I left it. It was one without buttons if …of leave it at home you need not bother…The weather is not so bad as it was …ago but what can we expect now the …will soon be here. Well I hope you will …me for not writing sooner to you. I will not …happen again. I think I must draw to a …and I will write soon again. Hoping…from you soon and hoping all at home …good health.

Good bye
I remain
Your loving son
Johnnie

[Location: could be either Newtownards or Tipperary]

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Sunday 17 December, 1916 by John Adams

Tipperary: “There is no chance of me getting home for Xmas”

Royal Irish Fusiliers,
No 1 Company A Block,
Irish Command Depot,
Tipperary

Sunday 17.12.16

My Dear Mother

Just a few lines hoping they will find yourself and all at home enjoying good health. As this leaves myself in the same at present. The weather has got very frosty this last while. But I hope it may continue as it is very pleasant and is much better than the rain. Well Dear Mother there is no chance of me getting home for Xmas as the storeman is away tomorrow (Mon) for 10 days so he will not be back until the Wed after xmas. So the two of us could not get away together. But I hope youse will have a good xmas at home and youse can have a little thought for the Black Sheep up in the Wilds of Tipperary. You might tell Jimmy to write me a few lines and let me know how the dance came off. Well I think this is all now. I will hardly have time to write again to the end of the week. Hoping to hear from you soon.

Good bye
I remain
Your Loving Son

J Adams

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Saturday 24 February, 1917 by John Adams

Newtownards: “This place is simply flooded”

“D” Company
Royal Irish Fusiliers
Newtownards Camp
Co. Down

24.02.17

Dear Mother

I received your parcel alright this morning and I thank you very much for what you sent to me for may handkerchiefs were all lost and I was just going to write home for a couple. So I got them in good time. The weather still keeps very wet. This place is simply flooded. You see it is so low lying very little rain takes effect on it. I wish it would dry up as the good weather is quite pleasant. I had no word from Jennie this couple of days but I am writing to her tonight.

There was a very fine draft left here yesterday. I think it was the best men left here. Albert Brown is away with it. There was […] them altogether. They were all 9th men going back. A few more drafts like it will take all the 9th men away from here.

Is there any word from Jack? I have lost his address. But he may soon be home. I hope he may get home before I get out again. Well I think I have little more to say so I will draw to a close hoping to hear from you soon again and thanking you again for your parcel.

I remain
Your loving son
J Adams

in 1916 - Recovery / 2010 upload / Ireland / Letter / Wounded and Recovery 1916 0 comments

Saturday 3 March, 1917 by John Adams

Newtownards: “I am doing Orderly Sgt this week so I will not have a minute to spare”

“D” Company
10th Royal I. Fus.[sic]
Newtownards
Co. Down

03.03.17

Just a few lines hoping they will find you still enjoying good health. I am sorry I was so long in answering your parcel which I received alright. Many thanks for the same. The weather keeps very wet. I do wish it would clear up as it is not very pleasant. Well I hope they had a good night on Friday night in Kingsmills. Was there many there?

Well Dear Mother if you do not get any more word from me this week you need not be uneasy as I will not have time to write. I am doing Orderly Sgt this week so I will not have a minute to spare. I am only telling you as you might wonder what was wrong.

I have got to go now, so I will have to draw to a close. Hoping to hear from you soon again.

I remain
Your loving son
J Adams

in 1916 - Recovery / 2010 upload / Ireland / Letter / Wounded and Recovery 1916 0 comments

Saturday 26 May, 1917 by John Adams

Le Havre: “All I want is for some of them to write me a few lines now and again”

9th Royal Irish Fusiliers
19 Camp
36 Base Depot
Le Havre

26.05.17

Dear Mother

Just a few lines to say I received your parcel alright. Many thanks for what you sent. I thought all at home had forgotten about me. It seemed so long from I had any word from home. I do not want you to send me anything out. All I want is for some of them to write me a few lines now and again, and I just had two letters from Jennie since I came out here. You would have thought before I came out I was going to get the whole of Ireland and the half of Scotland. But I do not mind. I am happy enough where I am. But as I said before I do not anything from anyone [sic]. Anything I do hear comes through strangers. I am still at the Base. All the draft I came out with has gone up the line so I do not suppose it will be long until I am going up also. The weather is very warm out here. I believe it is very wet in Ireland at present.

No more at present.

Goodbye
I remain
Your Obedient Son
J Adams

in 1917 - France / 2010 upload / France / France 1917-1918 / Letter 0 comments

Thursday 21 June, 1917 by John Adams

France: “Sammie had to go through another operation. I think his soldiering days are finished”

[YMCA letter paper]
[On Active Service with the British Expeditionary Force]

21st June 1917
B. E. Force

My Dear Mother

Just a few lines to say I received your ever welcome letter today and I am glad to know that all at home are still in good health as this leaves myself in the same at present. I have got all your letters now. I got 6 of them at the same time. So I get them now alright. It is a wonder you did not get an answer to your letters before this as I write to you every week. The weather has got rather showery this last while […] as the dry weather is very pleasant.

Well I had a letter from Mr Torrie from Waterford and he was telling me all at home were in good health. I had also a letter from Jennie and she was in good health also I had no word from Jack this long time but I think it was my own fault as I did not get answering his last letter. I did not [k]no[w] he had any notion of getting married. What happened that it did not come off? I saw T Moffat today and he looked quite well. He was telling me Sammie had to go through another operation. I think his soldiering days are finished.

Well I hope you will get this and forgive me for anything I said and hope it will still find you enjoying good health. Tell Annie and Jimmie that I was asking for them and hope to hear from them soon.

I think this is all now so I will close with best love to all at home.

I remain
Your loving son
John

PS Do not forget to write to the same address as I am with the Batt. now.
Location evidence: Major Brew

in 1917 - France / 2010 upload / France / France 1917-1918 / Letter 0 comments

Thursday 28 June, 1917 by John Adams

France: “I believe Sam has gone into hospital again”

[YMCA letter paper]
[On Active Service with the British Expeditionary Force]

British Exped Force
28 June 1917

My Dear Mother

Just a few lines hoping they will find yourself and all at home still enjoying your usual good health as this leaves myself in the same at present. I am sorry I have been so long in writing to you but I always send you a field card to let you know how I am getting on. I am getting your letters alright now. I had a letter from Jennie and she is in good health. The weather still continues to be fine out here. Tell Jimmy I am expecting a letter from him to let me know how things are going on. I think I was telling you how I saw T Moffatt and he is looking alright and was asking for you. I believe Sam has gone into hospital again. I expect he will get his discharge soon. Do you have any word from Jack or does he ever be home? I had no word from him this long time.

Well I think this is all now hoping to hear from you soon again. I will now draw to a close for the present.

I remain
Your loving son
Johnnie

in 1917 - France / 2010 upload / France / France 1917-1918 / Letter 0 comments

Thursday 12 July, 1917 by John Adams

France: “I am sure by this time Jimmy will be away with the Band”

[poor photocopy]

[YMCA letter paper]
[On Active Service with the British Expeditionary Force]

12 July 1917

My Dear Mother

Just a few lines now that I have time […] all at home still enjoying your usual good health as this leaves myself in the same at present. I am sure by this time Jimmy will be away with the Band. I see by the paper they are for Mountnorris. I only wish I had been at home for this day. But […] here is to think of the happy […] gone there is a lot of changes since the las time we all were together. A lot […]were there that day shall never meet with again. All is left […] out here to tell us where they are […] could speak to us […] I know […several sentences…]

I had a letter from Jennie […] and she is still[?] in good health.

Well Dear Mother I think […] for this time as I […] and Annie. No more at present hoiping this will find you in good health.

Goodbye
I remain
Your loving son
Johnnie
Location evidence: Major Brew

in 1917 - France / 2010 upload / France / France 1917-1918 / Letter 0 comments

Sunday 23 September, 1917 by John Adams

France: “the day we get our letter from home is a (Red Letter) day in the history of the soldier out here”

23rd Sept 1917

My Dear Mother

Just a few lines in answer to your ever welcome letter, which I received alright. And I am glad to know that yourself and all at home are still enjoying your usual good health as this leaves myself in the same at time of writing. I am glad if getting a letter from me does you any little good. It is all I can do for you while I am out here. But I believe you think so long as you get a letter from me that everything is alright. But what about me out here? I think it is just a bad if I do not hear from home. For the day we get our letter from home is a (Red Letter) day in the history of the soldier out here. It is the only way we can hear what is going on. The slender thread between us and the homeland. I do not think the people at home understands what it means to be out here. They think if they hear from those out here that is all is required. But never for a moment do they look at it from the soldier’s point of view. They never seem to think that he is just as anxious about those at home as they are about him. But anyhow I always look forward to getting a letter from home.

Well I hope Jimmy and Annie are not working too hard this weather. I suppose the people are in the midst of the harvest. I am 3 years left home this week and I may tell you I have seen some sights since that. But as long as you keep well yourself and all at home I am quite content.

Well the weather is still keeping fine and I hope it may continue as it is most pleasant. Does Jack ever be home? I had no word from him this long time. But I think it is my fault as I do not think I answered [h]is last letter, but I must write to him as soon as I get time. But if you see him remember me to him. I had a letter from Jennie the other day and she is well. They are at Bangor now.

Well I think I will have to close for this time. Hoping to hear from you soon again. Remember me to all at home. No more at present.

Goodnight
I remain
Your loving son
Johnnie

in 1917 - France / 2010 upload / France / France 1917-1918 / Letter 0 comments

Sunday 18 November, 1917 by John Adams

France: “I do not think I am going back to the Batt yet. Something has turned up for me, but I cannot tell you yet”

BEF
18.11.17

My Dear Mother

I now take the pleasure of writing a few lines home, hoping it will find yourself and all there still in your usual good health as this leaves myself not too bad at present. I am out of hospital again and getting on alright. I am getting down to the base depot today. So I expect to be back with the Batt in a few days. I am sure you imagined all sorts of things when I did not write to you but to tell the truth I was not able. Although it was nothing more than a severe cold. But you need have no fear for me as I am getting quite alright again. I got no letters since I went into hospital, so I am uneasy [?] to know how youse all are doing.

I had rather a nice letter from Mr Torrie on the day I left the Batt. It was very nice of him to think of writing to me.

The weather is got quite nice this last while, and I do hope it may continue. We had rather wet weather just before I went into hospital and I think that was what set me up.

Well it is wearing round to Xmas again. This is my fourth Xmas from home. Who would think it was so long, but perhaps all may be over for Xmas 1918 at least I hope it may be.

Well I shall think long [until] I get back to the Batt until I get a letter from home.

I think this is all now so I will close for this time. Hoping all at home are in good health.

Goodbye
I remain
Your loving son
Johnnie

I do not think I am going back to the Batt yet. Something has turned up for me, but I cannot tell you yet, so do not write again until you hear from me again.

We’re not sure what has happened here, but (from the next letter) he appears to be in No. 2 Convalescent Camp in Rouen. We know that he was gassed, so a recurrence of respiratory infection could have put him in hospital.

Mr Torrie was Rev. Edwin George Torrie, the minister of Kingsmills Presbyterian Church from 1914-1920, who served as a Private in the Royal Army Medical Corps from May 1916 until June 1919. Source: History of Kingsmills Presbyterian Church.

in 1917 - France / 2010 upload / France / France 1917-1918 / Letter 0 comments

Tuesday 20 November, 1917 by John Adams

France: Farming: “What a lovely country to live in. I believe I could live here all my life.”

Roy. Irish Fusiliers
No.2 Convalescent Depot
Rouen (Farming)

20.11.17

My Dear Mother

Just a few lines to let you know that I am still living and well. Hoping yourself and all at home are the same at present. I said the last time I wrote not to write again until you heard from me. I was at the Con-Camp at the time, so I did not like to give you any address until I should see if I was staying or not. But just as I was finishing your letter the RSM sent for me to see if I should like to go in charge of a party of men to work on a French farm until I got back my health again. And I need not say I jumped at the chance so that is what I am at now.

I am about 9 miles out of Rouen but our letters have to come through the con-camp. What a lovely country to live in. I believe I could live here all my life. I may be here 1 month and I may be here more. So I should like to hear from home as soon as ever you can as I am uneasy until I get word. I am getting quite fit again since I came to live here. I would you would write to Jennie and give her my address as I have not time to do so now.

This is all at present. Hoping to hear from you soon.

Goodbye
Your loving son
Johnnie

Address in full 13971
Sergt John Adams
Roy Irish Fus
No.2 Convalescent Depot
Rouen
B. E. Force
(Farming)

in 1917 - France / 2010 upload / France / France 1917-1918 / Letter 0 comments

Wednesday 5 December, 1917 by John Adams

France: “This is a lovely part of the country and I like it very much.”

05.12.17

British Exped. Force

My Dear Mother

Just a few lines hoping they will find yourself and all at home in good health as this leaves myself in the same at present. I am nearly tired waiting for a letter from home. It is nearly 6 weeks since I had one so I have nearly given up hope. How is Jimmy getting on? I hope he is well and also Annie. Had you any word from Jennie lately? Tell Jimmy this place is much cleaner than Sinclair’s yard.

This is a lovely part of the country and I like it very much. I shall send you a photo in a day or two and I hope you shall like it. The weather is keeping quite nice here now and I do hope it may continue as it is most pleasant.

Well I think this is about all now, so I shall close with best love to all.

I remain
Your loving son
Johnnie

Presumably this is a continuation of the farming convalescence?

in 1917 - France / 2010 upload / France / France 1917-1918 / Letter 0 comments

Monday 4 February, 1918 by John Adams

France: “I am not near at myself, for I am longing to see Mother again”

04.02.18

My Dear Annie

Just a few lines hoping this will find you still in good health as this leaves myself in the same at present. I wrote to mother for to ask the Doctor for to make out a certificate to the effect that she was ill and that she should like to see me. But she wrote back to say she was alright again when I know quite well she was not. Because she is afraid of something happening to me in crossing over and as she would not do it I want you to do it for me. And if you do not I shall give up hope. I cannot sleep at night and to tell you the truth I am not near at myself, for I am longing to see Mother again. And you could do it all in the inside of an hour. I am sure Dr [??] should not refuse you. I cannot explain this much better.

There is an officer in our Batt and he told me today he should do all in his power to help me. But he told me he could do nothing for me in the way of getting a special leave except I could get a telegram or a doctor’s certificate. But he told me as soon as I got either that he should do his best to get me home to see mother. He said he was very sorry for me and told me to write to you to get either you or the Dr to send a certificate and that he should do the rest for me. I hope you understand me. All you have to do is go to the Doctor and say mother is very ill and wishes to see me. And I am sure he shall not refuse you (knowing that she is ill). Put it in a Reg letter and send it to me. And if all go well as this officer says it will I shall be home before the end of the month.

Well I think this is all now. Hoping to hear from you soon again. No more at present.

Goodbye
I remain
Your loving bro
Johnnie

in 1918 - France / 2010 upload / France / France 1917-1918 / Letter 0 comments

Wednesday 6 March, 1918 by John Adams

France: “I am like the man with the wheelbarrow. I always have it before me.”

06.03.18

My Dear Mother

Just a few lines in answer to your ever welcome letter which I received alright. And no one but God knows the relief my mind got when I read it, to know that you are up and going about again. I would rather have got that letter than any telegram, for I should not have much pleasure in going home. Well if God spares us both I may be home before the end of the month.

I expect I shall be going up to the [?] far before me. Willie [???] is asking for you every day. He is also in this camp. You see if they had not kept me here for a chief instructor I should have been home on leave long ago. But perhaps it is all for the best. I am like the man with the wheelbarrow. I always have it before me.

Well I think I shall close for this time. Hoping this will find you keeping well.

I remain
Your loving son
Johnnie

in 1918 - France / 2010 upload / France / France 1917-1918 / Letter 0 comments

Monday 16 September, 1918 by John Adams

France: I have been asked several times if I would go in for a commission

16.09.18

My Dear Mother

Just a few lines hoping they will find yourself and all at home still enjoying your usual good health as this leaves myself in the same at time of writing. The weather is still keeping quite nice and I hope it may continue. Has Jimmy got his flax saved yet? It should bring him in some money. I received all your letters aright.

Well Dear Mother I may as well tell you I have been asked several times if I would go in for a commission, but I do not know as yet what I may do. Sometimes I think of doing it and then change my mind again. But I [have]written to Mr Meeke [Minister of Kingsmills Presbyterian Church] and also [to] Thos Elliot Rathentay [?] for […] as to my moral character […] it is necessary for to have them [if I] should take the notion again. [My] own Captain would like it if I [would] go in for it. If Mr[s?] Elliott [is] talking to you about it you might [let] him know what I want. It is just [paper] saying he has known me for [how] long and the sort of character [I have] at home. This is all there [is] for now.

Goodbye
I remain
Your loving son
J Adams

in 1918 - France / 2010 upload / France / France 1917-1918 / Letter 0 comments

Saturday 5 October, 1918 by Mary Adams

A mother’s anguish: “Dear Johnnie if you are able to speak ask some one to write to me.”

Context

This letter was written after John Adams mother, Mary Adams, had received the telegram from the War Office.

Lisadian, Whitecross, Co Armagh
5th Oct 18

My Dear Johnnie

It is with a sorry heart I write to say I got the sad news on yesterday to say that you were wounded. But I hope and trust in God that you will get better and that He will be with you and help you to bear the pain that you will have to suffer for I know it will be hard to bear. God is able to take care of you over there as well as here and Dear Johnnie if you are able to speak ask some one to write to me and tell me how you are. We wired back to the War Office but we got no word. We all send our kind love to you. May God in Heaven be with you my Son.

Ever your
Loving Mother

Mary Adams

in 1918 - Wounded / Ireland / Letter 1 comments

Wednesday 9 October, 1918 by John Adams

Birmingham: “The nurse here who is attending me comes from Monaghan and I am the only Irish boy in the ward, so you need not fear for my treatment”

9th Royal Irish Fusiliers
Ward C 11
2/1st Southern General Hosp
Dudley Road
Birmingham

09.10.18

My Dear Mother

I suppose you will be glad to get this note from me and to know that I am in England once again. I am sure you have had all sort of thought this last few days, but don’t worry I am alright. I am as happy as the King. I got wounded through the right leg, so my only trouble is I have got to lie on my back. It will be some time before I can walk again, so I hope you will forgive this writing as it is not very good.

The nurse here who is attending me comes from Monaghan and I am the only Irish boy in the ward, so you need not fear for my treatment. I have got no writing paper or stamps, nor money to buy them, so you may forgive this short note. I hope you can make out this address. Tell Jimmy I have got 6 in [?!] of a beard on and no razor to take it off.

Goodbye
Your loving son
John

in 1918 - Wounded / 2010 upload / England / Letter 0 comments

Tuesday 15 October, 1918 by John Adams

Birmingham: “My leg is in splints to keep it still”

[Undated]
[possibly a fragment at the end of a letter?]

Please excuse this short note as I cannot sit up in bed long at a time. You see my leg is in splints to keep it still.

Well this is all this time so I will close for the present. Hoping to hear from you soon.

I may have the pleasure of spending Xmas at home this year.

Good bye
Your loving son
Johnnie

in 1918 - Wounded / England / Letter 0 comments

Friday 18 October, 1918 by John Adams

Birmingham: “I have still my leg in splints”

[Probably in Southern General Hospital, Birmingham – see previous letter]

18th October 1918

My Dear Mother

Just a few lines in answer to your ever welcome letter which I received alright this evening. And I am glad to know that your self and all at home are still enjoying your usual good health. As for myself I am going on as well as can be expected. I thank you very much for what you sent to me. It is really too much of you.

I had a letter from Jennie a few days ago and also a parcel today, with cigarettes in it. So I have got as much as will keep me going for a good while. I am sorry to hear of Mrs McComb’s death. It must have been a shock to the boys. I suppose none of the girls are at home. Mr Rentoul [?] had also a short reign out here. But the German shells have no respect of persons. They kill and maim whatever comes in their way. But it [is] all in the fortunes of war or rather the misfortunes.

Well Dear Mother [I] am getting along first rate. I have still my leg in splints. I have still got 6 days to lie on my back before they take them off. You see it takes the artery so long to knit and heal up. But I will be running about in a few days again.

I hope Jimmy is not working too hard but I suppose the most of the work is finished. Tell him he might write me a few lines some night he has time. I suppose the Dances will soon be starting for the winter. I was telling you they were talking of sending a few of us across to Ireland when I first came in here. But as I was not able to be moved at the time I did not hear anything more about it until this evening when they came around and [took] the names of all men belonging to Ireland. So whither [sic] they are going to send me across or not I do not know.

Well I think this is about all tonight. I will now close. Thanking you again for what you sent to me tonight. I shall not forget it.

Goodbye
I remain
Your loving son
Johnnie

Tell Annie I shall write to her as soon as I am able to sit up. Hoping to hear from her soon.

in 1918 - Wounded / 2010 upload / England / Letter 0 comments

Thursday 24 October, 1918 by Rev. E.G. Torrie

Rev. Torrie: “He has got on splendidly in the Army and you have every reason to be proud of your brave son”

24th Oct 1918

Dear Mrs Adams

I was so glad to get your letter some time ago. I trust you are somewhat improved in health since you wrote though indeed you have had a great anxiety since. I heard from Mr Dillon, also from Mr Hamilton about John being wounded again. I do hope he is making rapid recovery. How splendid of him to get a recommendation for his commission! It shows that he is a good soldier and one in whom trust is placed. He has got on splendidly in the Army and you have every reason to be proud of your brave son.

I am sure you know about my friend’s death. It was a great blow to me. I had a wonderful deliverance myself for which I thank God. I trust it is his will to spare me to return to minister to my people in Kingsmills and I hope that happy time will soon come. How are Annie and Jimmy? Tell them I should like to hear from them and especially I want to hear about John.

I hear regularly from Mrs Torrie. We are calling the new baby after my father and he is greatly pleased at that. Cecil is growing rapidly and is as bright as ever. Mrs Torrie and the children are all in Waterford now with my parents.

The sinking of the Leinster was a terrible disaster. A friend related to us by marriage was returning to France from leave. He was drowned and they have recovered the body. There is sadness in many homes. The war will soon be over but I think much yet remains to be done before the Germans give in.

My address – 91st Field Ambulance, BEF, France.

Kind regards and best wishes to all
Yours sincerely
EG Torrie

129117 Pte EG Torrie, RAMC

in 1918 - Wounded / France / Letter 0 comments

Saturday 26 October, 1918 by John Adams

Dublin: “This is the hospital I am in”

Postcard showing Mater Misericordiae Hospital, Dublin. Postmark 26 Oct 1918, Dublin

Dear Mother

This is the hospital I am in. I wrote to you today. Hoping to hear from you soon. I am going on alright. Will [write] later on.

Johnnie.

in 1918 - Wounded / Ireland / Letter 0 comments

Tuesday 29 October, 1918 by John Adams

Dublin: there have been a lot killed this last while

St Patrick Ward
Mater Hospital
Dublin
29.10.18

My Dear Mother

Just a few lines in answer to your ever welcome letter which I received today. And I am glad to know that yourself and all at home are still in good health, as this leaves myself going on alright. I am a good deal better. My leg is nearly healed up, but I am still in bed.

I am sorry to hear of G Halliday being killed. I wonder what Batt he was with. I did not see him for a long time. But there have been a lot killed this last while. The CO of the 9th was killed the day after I left [possibly Lt Col P Kelly – killed by a shell on 11 Oct 1918 – see war diary]. I am sending you his photo he was a good man and he thought quite a lot of me. I was sorry to hear of him being killed.

Well I think this is all now hoping to hear from you soon again. I shall be glad to get those cigarettes which you have for me.

Goodbye
I remain
Your loving son
Johnnie

in 1918 - Wounded / 2010 upload / Ireland / Letter 1 comments

Wednesday 30 October, 1918 by John Adams

Dublin: “I am going on alright and will soon be able to walk about again”

St Patrick’s Ward
Mater Hospital
Dublin
30.10.18

My Dear Mother

Just a few lines in answer to your ever welcome letter of today. Am I am glad to know that all at home are still in good health. I am going on alright and will soon be able to walk about again. I am very sorry indeed to hear of young [Lew’s?] death. It must have been very sudden.

Well Mother dear I thank you very much for your parcel. The apples are very nice. And tell Jimmy I also thank him for the cigarettes which he sent.

I shall write to Annie as soon as I am able to move about which will not be long. I hope I said in my last letter I was finding you Col Kelly’s photo, but I forgot to put it in. I am sending it this time.

No more at present. Thanking you again for your parcel.

Goodbye
I remain
Your loving son
Johnnie

in 1918 - Wounded / Ireland / Letter 0 comments

Wednesday 13 November, 1918 by John Adams

Dublin: “the War is finished”

[poorly copied letter with much of each page off the edge]

[probably St Patrick’s Ward, Mater Hospital, Dublin]

13.11.18

My Dear Mother

…have been so long in … But I hope you and …are in good health. …Is very trying on people…at present. Today is…the day the Germans…on the 21st March. …do you think of the …reached up last night…the War is finished aft[er]…Well I do not think …to say I am sorry…not. But when I hear[d]…news I thanked…I was spared to …it safe. I just…paper of a going…had been out from…killed by a stray…before peace was…I think that was…luck. I received…alright today. And …from Jennie. Well…I was so long in …expecting every day …week to go to Belfast…have been talking…all North men to be…I do not know when… or if we go at all…when of all the …home. But there is a lot of deaths in Dublin. I never go out but I meet 8 and 9 friends in one day. And there was some slight riots in the city last night. And a few people injured. I am sorry to hear of Annie being ill, but I hope she is got alright again. Miss Gardiner was not expected to get better but she is up and able to move about again. There has been not cases amongst the soldiers in Dublin yet that I have heard of.

Well I think this is all at present. Please forgive me for being so long in writing to you.

Goodbye
Your loving son
Johnnie

PS In this cutting Sir D Haig is speaking of the Retreat of the 21st March. And also of the (36) Ulster Division and is for Jimmy. I shall always remember those times when we were fighting the Germans 3-to-1.

in 1918 - Wounded / 2010 upload / Ireland / Letter 0 comments

Friday 15 November, 1918 by John Adams

Dublin: “They are sending all North Men down to Belfast”

15.11.18
St Patrick’s Ward
Mater Hospital
Dublin

My Dear Mother

Just a few lines n answer to your ever welcome letter which I received alright this morning and I am glad to know that all at home are still in good health. I hope Annie has got alright again. I am sorry I have been so long in writing but we have been waiting this last week for to go to Belfast. And as I was expecting to go every day I did not write. They are sending all North Men down to Belfast. We go on Monday. So you need hardly write again until I send you my address in Belfast. I shall write to you as soon as I get there. I am going on alright. I shall soon be well enough to leave hospital.

I am sure you were glad to hear the news of an armistice being signed. It has caused some little disturbances in Dublin, but I do not think it will come to anything.

I think this is all now.

Goodbye
I remain
Your loving son
Johnnie

in 1918 - Wounded / Ireland / Letter 0 comments

Monday 18 November, 1918 by John Adams

Belfast: “Tell Jimmy if he thinks of buying a new pair of boots I shall buy those that he has”

[undated – probably 18.11.18 – see letter 15.11.18]
Ward 7
Royal Victoria Hospital
Belfast

My Dear Mother

Just a line tonight to say I have arrived safe in Belfast. We left Dublin today at 1 o’clock and got here about 5.30. I am still going on alright and I hope so are you and all at home. I hope Annie has got alright again and that Jimmy is still keeping well.

I am glad to be in Belfast once more. The weather is lovely at present and I do hope it may continue as it is most pleasant. Tell Jimmy if he thinks of buying a new pair of boots I shall buy those that he has. I do not like paying so much money for a new pair for 7 or 8 days at home. But I do not like going about in those heavy ones. Tell him to write and tell me if he will sell them to me. And if he does he can send them to me while I am in hospital.

Well this is only a line tonight to let you know where I am. Hoping to hear from you soon.

I remain
Your loving son
Johnnie

in 1918 - Wounded / Ireland / Letter 0 comments

Wednesday 20 November, 1918 by John Adams

Belfast: “I am still able to walk about”

20.11.18
Ward 7
Royal Victoria Hospital
Belfast

My Dear Mother

Just a few lines in answer to your ever welcome letter of today. And I am glad to know that all at home are still enjoying their usual good health as this leaves myself going on alright at present. I am still able to walk about and we are allowed out here from 2pm to 7pm every day. The weather is lovely at present.

Well Mother I thank you very much for what you sent to me. It was very good of you. I shall get along alright without the boots until I get home. I [do] not know how long I may be here, but I shall do my best to be home for Xmas.

I hope Annie is still keeping better and that Jimmy is going on alright.

Well I think this is all now. So I will now close thanking you again for the money.

Goodbye
I remain
Your loving son
Johnnie

in 1918 - Wounded / Ireland / Letter 0 comments

Tuesday 14 January, 1919 by John Adams

Belfast: “I wonder if Jimmy intends to go to that Dance”

Royal Victoria Hosp
Belfast
14.01.19

My Dear Mother

Just a few lines in answer to your every welcome letter of today. And I am glad to know that yourself and all at home are still enjoying your usual good health, as this leaves me in the same at present.

The weather here keep[s] very nice. It has been like summer this last two days. We had none of that snow you speak of. Or at least very little. It stayed no time here.

I had no word from Jennie since I saw her but I am sure she is quite alright. I did not see Tommy since I came back. I may go over to see him before I go home but I do not know yet.

I wonder if Jimmy intends to go to that Dance at [Killeavy] Castle. Tell him I shall do my best to be home for it. But tell him I got an invite from another quarter. He will know who I mean. I hope it may be a much drier night than the last. Tell him to get the Patton’s for to drive up again.

Well I am glad that all at home are well. Well I think this is about all I can say now. So I will close with best love.

I remain
Your loving son
Johnnie

Hoping to hear from you soon again.

Note: Killeavy Castle is at the base of Slieve Gullion, Co. Armagh

in 1918 - Wounded / Ireland / Letter 0 comments

Saturday 4 April, 1987 by John R Adams

Letter John R Adams in 1987

[draft letter]
45 Main Street
Hamilton’s Bawn
Armagh

04.04.87

Dear Mr McCormack [Mr McCormack was writing a book on 36 Ulster Division – I’ve not found it, may never have been published]

I write again with reference to my father, Sgt J Adams MM who served with D Company 9th Bn Royal Irish Fusiliers.

Prior to joining the RIF he worked as an apprentice mechanic with [left space to complete later?] although I am sure he must have done other work elsewhere, since he had attended Kingsmills National School and I presume left when he was about 12. (He was born in 1892 [sic]). He was always a very good handwriter, using a dip pen until his death in 1971.

After the war he joined the ‘A’ Specials serving in Newtownhamilton and Middleton and rising to the rank of Head-Constable.

When the ‘A’ Specials were disbanded he tried unsuccessfully to join the Prison Service and became a Sergeant-Instructor in the ‘B’ Specials. He was later Head Instructor (Co Armagh) and eventually Adjutant of the USC in Armagh. (The County Commandant was Captain Ensor, Ardress who had been his platoon commander in France).

As regards how he won his double MM I have very little information although I seem to remember that it was for rescuing wounded from No Man’s Land.

My father spoke little of his experiences during the War. The only time I heard anything was at Christmas when he met up with my mother’s brother, Johnny Reid, who had served with the NIH. When they lost their horses, he was transferred to the 9th Bn. It was amazing how they could remember occasions on which they had met, right down to the day, date, weather conditions etc.

I enclose for your use or otherwise:
Photograph – 3 soldiers, centre one is my father
Photograph – father
These in fact are copies of the originals and you may keep them.

A letter dated 13.05.16 detailing how he was wounded, also a letter dated 07.07.16. (He was offered a job in the Depot as a Lewis Gun Instructor, but refused to go saying he wanted to get back to his friends at the Front.)

in Correspondence / Letter 0 comments