Sidney Taylor – Army Catering Corps

Private Sidney Taylor – Army Catering Corps

Early Life

Sidney Taylor was born in 1910 in Swansea, the son of Richard Joseph Taylor and Margaret Ann Thomas. He grew up in a large working‑class household typical of early‑20th‑century Swansea, where steady labouring work and close family ties shaped daily life.

1911 Census

1911 Census

At the time of the 1911 Census, the Taylor family were residing at 9 John Street, Swansea. Richard, aged 39, was employed as a Labourer, while his wife Maggie Ann, aged 35, undertook the household duties. Their children present were Thomas J. (14); Richard (11); Edward (8); George (6); Martha (5); and Sidney, recorded as 4 months old.

1921 Census

1921 Census

By 1921, the family were still living at 9 John Street. Richard, now 52, was recorded as a Labourer employed by the Aullantic High Co., North Dock, though out of work at the time of the census. His wife Margaret Ann, aged 44, continued the household duties. Their children present were Richard (21), a Labourer employed by Grayd End Coy but out of work; Edward (18), a Motor Driver employed by D. J. Wipkins, Coal Merchant; Martha (15), a Homeworker; George (17), an Errand Boy employed by Devilla Baker; and the younger children Sidney (10), Brinley (8), Kathleen (6)—all attending school—and Stanley (3). Also present in the household was Thomas James Thomas (47), Richard’s brother‑in‑law.

Marriage

Sidney later married Agnes May Taylor, establishing his own household before entering military service.

Military Service

Sidney served as a Private with the Army Catering Corps, the branch responsible for providing food, rations, and essential sustenance to British troops. The Corps played a crucial role during and after the Second World War, ensuring the welfare and efficiency of servicemen across all theatres.

Sidney Taylor
Morriston Cemetery
credit - findagrave

Death and Burial

Sidney died on 12 June 1946, and his body was brought home to Swansea for burial at Morriston Cemetery, where he rests among the early post‑war military burials.