William John Godwin - Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve, H.M.S. Pembroke

Ordinary Seaman William John Godwin - Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve, H.M.S. Pembroke

Birth and Family Background

Henry Godwin and Emily Elizabeth Petty
marriage certificate
Parish Church of Abersychan, Monmouthshire

William John Godwin was born in 1897 in Swansea, the son of George Henry Godwin and Emily Elizabeth Petty, who were married in 1896 at the Parish Church of Abersychan, Monmouthshire.

1901 Census

At the time of the 1901 Census, the family were residing at 2 Nantyffin Road, Llansamlet, Swansea. George Henry (29), born in Monmouthshire, was employed as a Railway Signalman, while his wife Emily Elizabeth (29), born in Bristol, managed the household. Their children were Willie John (4) and Albert Edward (2).

1911 Census

By the 1911 Census, the family had moved to Midland Cottage, Nantyffin Road, Llansamlet, Swansea. George (39) continued in his occupation as a Railway Signalman, and Emily (29) remained at home. Their children were Willie (14), employed as a Cold Roll Greaser; Albert (12); Frederick (9); Cecilia (6); and Ivor (1). Also present in the household was Sarah Godwin (69), George’s mother.

Naval Service

Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve Service Records

The Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve Service Records for William have survived and show that he enlisted in September 1916. He served as an Ordinary Seaman in the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve, attached to H.M.S. Pembroke.

H.M.S. Pembroke was the shore establishment at Chatham, serving as a naval barracks and administrative centre. Many ratings recorded as serving aboard Pembroke were assigned to training, depot duties, or drafted to sea-going vessels from this base.

Death and Burial

British Army and Navy Birth, Marriage and Death Records

The British Army and Navy Birth, Marriage and Death Records confirm that William died on 3^rd September 1917.

William John Godwin
Woodlands Cemetery, Gillingham, Kent
credit - findagrave

Unlike many sailors lost at sea, William was buried ashore. He is laid to rest at Woodlands Cemetery, Gillingham, Kent, close to the Chatham naval base where he was serving.

His service reflects the contribution of young Welsh volunteers who entered naval service during the later years of the First World War.