Aaron Smeaton
Date of birth: 1885
Date of death: 08.10.1917
Area: Knottingley
Regiment: York & Lancaster
Family information: Husband of Mercy Smeaton nee Jowsey
Rank: Private
Service number: 19805
War Service
Aaron enlisted in September 1914 into1/4th York and Lancaster Regiment. After training the Regiment left for France in October 1915. The 1/4th York and Lancasters were part of 148 Brigade of 49th (West Riding) Division.
In April 1916 Aaron was treated for wounds at a Sheffield Hospital. He returned to the Front sometime in August 1917.
Aaron returned as the Third Battle of Ypres was underway. The Offensive began on 31st July and lasted until 10th November. The 1/4th York and Lancasters were to be part of the phase of the Battle known as The Battle of Poelcapelle on 9th October.
They set out on 30th September and moved into position. By 6th October they were at Vlamertinghe. On 8th October they were in fields near Potijze. They were in Assembly position by 4am on 4th October. Travelling to this position had involved crossing miles of mud, they had struggled for hours and were exhausted by the time they got to the start line.
For both sides this was a terrible battle and both suffered many casualties. Aaron was killed in action on 9th October. His body was buried and subsequently reburied on 23rd January 1920 at Tyne Cot Cemetery.
Family Life
Aaron Smeaton was born in 1885 in Knottingley, the son of William and Elizabeth Smeaton, (nee) Athorn. He had half brothers and sisters and two sisters and a younger brother. The family lived in The Holes. William and Elizabeth were born in Conisborough and moved to Knottingley to work in the Pottery, their children were born in Knottingley. When Aaron left school be began work at Jackson’s Glassworks.
Aaron married Mercy Jowsey in 1907. They had six children, three died in infancy. Elizabeth, Florence and Walter survived.
Aaron Smeaton
Aaron Smeaton with his family
Aaron Smeaton's grave
