Arthur Lee was born in Oldham on 6th March 1895 and was baptised at All Saints, Northmoor. His mother Mary Jane (née Elsby), was a widow when he was born, as his father (also Arthur) died in Oldham on 29 November 1894.
Arthur grew up in Oldham as well as spending some time in London, with his mother and older brother Harry. His mother remarried twice, the first time to John Samuel Bilton in 1898, who subsequently died in 1907. The second time was to Harry Lawton, in 1910, who already had sons of his own.
(See 1901 and 1911 census returns below)
Arthur was a choir boy and got prizes for his attendance at Sunday School.
When WWI started Arthur left his job at Platts in Oldham and joined the Royal Field Artillery, 177 brigade, D Company. He was a driver who served in France and Flanders. He died there on 29 May 1917, when a bomb went off. A letter to the family was quoted in the paper, saying he died instantly.
His mother was sent the crop and spurs shown in his photos.
Arthur was the brother of Harry Lee, remembered HERE
Thumbnails link to larger image & description
