100 Years Ago: Horace Yeomans Is Killed, Ernest Phillips Wounded in Action

The Intelligencer April 17, 1916 (page 1)

“Popular Son of Belleville Numbered With The Slain. Horace Yeomans Is Killed. The following cable message was this morning received by Mr. F.E. O’Flynn of this city: Hoarce Yeomans Killed. Writing, Eddie. Three brief words, but bringing grief to local parents and scores of friends, referring as it does to Horace Yeomans, eldest son of Dr. and Mrs. H.A. Yeomans, of this city, who left with the First Canadian Contingent as a member of the Signalling Corps of the 34 Battery, and sent by Capt. Eddie O’Flynn, also of Belleville, who has been at the front for some time.

There was a feeling of deep regret in this city when the sad news became generally known. The brave lad was well known by our citizens, and no young man possessed more personal friends. He was beloved by all who knew him, and his death will be sincerely regretted.

He was at the time of his enlistment attending Belleville High School, and was recognized as an exceptionally bright scholar. Highly moral, an energetic worker in church circles and at the Y.M.C.A., his influence for good was far-reaching among the younger classes, by whom his death will be deeply regretted.

To the bereaved parents the heartfelt sympathy of the community at large will be extended at this time.”

[Note: Bombardier Horace Eugene Yeomans died on April 10, 1916. He is commemorated on Page 186 of the First World War Book of Remembrance.]

The Intelligencer April 17, 1916 (page 7)

“Ernest Phillips Wounded in Action. Mrs. H.W. Dillnutt, of 16 Turnbull Street, Belleville, received yesterday the following telegram informing her of the wounding of her son in action: Ottawa, April 15.—Sincerely regret to inform you that 40470, Gunner Ernest Linnell Phillips, artillery, was officially reported as admitted to No. 13 General Hospital, Boulogne, April 8th. Gunshot wounds—multiple. Condition good. Will send further particulars when received. Adjutant-General.

Ernest Phillips, well known in this city, and for some years an employee of Marsh & Henthorn, left here in August, 1914, with the 34th Battery, 1st Contingent, and has served gallantly for his country.

Mr. H.W. Dillnutt, Mrs. Phillips second husband, is also in the same battery, connected with the Ammunition Column. John Phillips, a younger son is now a member of the 155th, the three soldiers indicating a patriotic trend in the family.”