Early Years

Archibald Edward Bray was born in 1896, the son of George Bray a gardener and greengrocer and his wife Ellen who kept the greengrocer’s shop on Cowleigh Road, North Malvern.  In 1901 Archibald was living at Grimsby Place, Cowleigh Road with his parents and three older sisters (Ruby, Mabel and Adelaide) and baby brother, Gordon. Ten years later the family were still at Grimsby Place.  Archibald was recorded on the 1911 Census as an errand boy.

First World War 

Archibald joined Kitchener’s Army in September 1914, under his name “Archie.”  He trained with the 9th Battalion which was sent to the Dardanelles in spring 1915.  He sailed with his battalion from Avonmouth Docks on 19th June 1915, landing in Alexandria.  On 4th July the landed at Mudros in preparation for deployment at Gallipoli.

Along with the rest of his Division (the 13th), Archibald landed at ANZAC Cove between 3rd and 5th August 1915.  They were heavily engaged on 9th August and continued to serve at Gallipoli until December 1915.

Mesopotamia

In February 1916, the 9th Worcesters deployed to the Mesopotamian theatre.  On 25th January 1917, the 9th Worcesters took part in the Battle of Kut.  Sadly Archie was killed during this engagement – initially being posted missing.

It was not until 20th April 1918 that the Malvern News reported: 

“Pte Archibald Bray reported missing on the 25th January 1917 is now presumed killed. He is the son of Mr and Mrs Bray of Church Cottage, Cowleigh Road. He volunteered at the outbreak of war.”

Malvern News 20/4/18
1901 Census