Letters, photos, school magazine and other artefacts many from York and Yorkshire and with a primitive Methodist theme. || I live in what used to be Elmfield College, York (1863-1902), and have in my living room several crates of documents relating to the First World War period. These include letters from the front and many photographs. I hope to upload these over the next few months.

My story is regarding our grandfather Bertram Sampson who was born 17 Jan 1886 in Perth Scotland, and died 23 April 1917 in the Battle of Arras, France & Flanders. His regiment was the 1st/7th Black Watch (Royal Highlanders). The Battalion suffered heavy casualties, 25 other ranks killed and 123 wounded. In 1916 Bertram was sent home on Compassionate Leave as he sustained a shrapnel wound to his neck, he recovered and was sent back to fight once again, but sadly was K.I.A. leaving a wife and six children. Before he enlisted Bertram was a professional football player with the local team St Johnstone, in the centre half back position. His registration with the Scottish Football Assoc. was dated 14th May 1907, at the age of 21. From the age of 16 he was an avid football player, and played with many local junior teams. The St Johnstone team lost eight of their players in the First World War. Our grandfather Bertram is mentioned quite extensively in the very rare copy of the Official St Johnstone FC History from 1886-1997, along with his grandson (my brother Brian Sampson who also played professional football for St Johnstone, our local team. Bertram is buried in the Brown's Copse Cemetery, Roeux, France. Sadly Bertram's brother Frank Sampson born 19 Oct 1881 was our second war hero, he was in the 6th Battalion Black Watch Regiment. K.I.A. on the 28 JULY 1918 in the Battle of Tardenios, Marne, France, they also suffered casualties, 14 other ranks killed and 104 wounded or missing. Frank is buried in the Chambracy British Cemetery, France. || 1.Grandfather Bertram with his wife and family.2.Brothers Frank and Bertram.3.1911,St Johnstone Football Team.4.Memorial Cross.5.CWGC Memorial Stone for Bertram.6.CWGC.Memorial Stone for Frank.7.Bertram's Medals.

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