Previous Lot Next Lot

Auction: 25112 - Orders, Decorations and Medals - e-Auction
Lot: 385

Three: Commissioned Gunner W. H. Tutchings, Royal Navy who served on Torpedo Boat 22 early in the Great War

1914-15 Star (Gr. W. H. Tutchings, R.N.); British War and Victory Medals (Gnr. W. H. Tutchings. R.N.), mounted for wear, very fine (3)

William Harry Tutchings was born in Ellacombe, Devon on 20 August 1884 and was a painter's boy when he joined the Royal Navy as a Boy 2nd Class in January 1901. Advanced to Petty Officer in September 1912, Tutchings served on H.M.S. Cornwall from 30 July 1914 until 16 October 1914. He was appointed to TB 22 on 28 February 1915 serving on her until he was sent to Haslar Hospital on 14 January 1916 following which he was shore pensioned on 17 February 1916, unfit for further service.

In the 1939 census Tutchings is recorded as Chief Warder Munition Works at Dartford in Kent. Curiously his date of birth is shown as 12 November 1885 which is at odds with the birth date given on his enlistment papers, the assumption being that he wanted to hide his true age on enlistment. He is also recorded married to Edith who was born in 1891 with one son, Gerald who was born on 25 August 1916, a jig and tool designer. He married Mary Wallis in 1945.

Tutchings died on 13 April 1952 from heart failure at Kingsteignton, Newton Abbot, Devon; sold together with copied research.

Subject to 20% VAT on Buyer’s Premium. For more information please view Terms and Conditions for Buyers.

Sold for
£55

Starting price
£50