Lest We Forget

In August 1914, Mr Badley wrote: "... it is one of the tragic aspects of the struggle to us here, in a School whose members come from most of the countries of Europe, that Bedalians will be fighting on either side.  This thought alone will prevent us from hating or decrying enemies amongst whom friends and dear comrades will be doing their duty loyally and bravely as their comrades on our side.  May the time come, and soon, when we can clasp their hand again in thankfulness that this madness of nations is overpast, and in the hope that somehow good shall come out of all the ill that lies around us and before us now."

Bedales joined the Commonwealth War Graves Commission 'Lest We Forget' campaign by posting details of all the Bedalians who died in the First World War on the centenaries of their deaths. As each anniversary occurred we posted details on the Library/Archive Twitter account, with links to further information about each person.  

Most of the research and writing is the work of the late Ruth Whiting, History teacher from 1963-2000. We are very grateful to Paul Nixon for his help in finishing the project to which Ruth had devoted so much time and energy. Click on the photos below for more information.