Dedicated to the memory of all the men and women of the South Staffordshire area who died during the two World Wars.
George Harry Beach was born at Wednesfield on 4th of April, 1882. He was the son of John and Caroline Beach. When George was baptised at St Mary's Bushbury on 4th June, 1882, his father's occupation was given as 'farmer' though, in subsequent censuses he is described as a farm waggoner or farm labourer.
Like many men working on farms, John regularly moved to find work. There is evidence that the family lived in Essington and Lapley before settling at Shutt Green. George is known to have attended school in Wheaton Aston and Stretton. By 1911 George, now 19, was still living with his parents at Shutt Green and working as a farm waggoner.
George enlisted in the South Staffordshire Regiment at Bilston less than 12 months before he died. He served with the 8th Battalion, part of Kitchener's second New Army.
George Beach died of wounds on 6th July 1916 during the Battle of Albert (the opening stage of the Battle of the Somme, 1-13th July 1916). During the battle his Division (the 17th) captured Fricourt. George is buried in Mericourt-L'Abbe Communal Cemetery Extension, a few kilometres southwest of the town of Albert.
Private 20487 George Harry Beach was awarded the Victory and British War Medals.
This memorial has mostly been compiled from official sources. It would be good to be able to expand it with more personal material - memories, stories, photos, etc. If you have any suitable material or any corrections please contact Greg.