Early Years

Frederick James Mason was born in 1890, the son of Edward Mason, a labourer and his wife Ann.  He was baptised at St Peter’s Church, Cowleigh by Rev Williams on 18th May 1890.  The 1901 Census found the Mason family at 12 Albion Terrace, Belmont Road and Frederick attended Cowleigh Mixed School just up the road.

Wales

At some point after leaving school, Fred moved to Wales for work.  The 1911 Census found Fred working as a plasterer’s labourer, lodging at 3 Greenfield Cottage, Monk Street, Abergavenny.  In 1913 he married Dorothy Mildred Whiting and in late 1914, their daughter Mabel was born.

First World War

Details regarding Fred Mason’s war service are sparse.  He landed in France on 25th December 1915.  1917 found him in a reserve unit at home and a corporal.  It was while serving with 21st Reserve Battery at Woolwich, he gave evidence in the case of a Dvr Lee who absented from a defaulters parade in February 1917.  

Back in France in 1918, he was gassed and died at 7th Stationary Hospital, Boulogne.  He is buried at Terlincthun British Cemetery, Wimille.

1901 Census
St Peter's Cowleigh Baptism Register