Wilfred Ebery

Wilfred studied in Oxford for only two terms before joining up. He died on his second day in the trenches at Ypres.

Born in Staffordshire

Wilfred Ebery was born between April and June 1894 at Darlaston, Staffordshire. His father was a wood template maker for constructional steel works for bridges and roofing. At the 1911 census he was at school and living in Darlaston with his parents, John and Elizabeth, and his brother.

Joined up after two terms in Oxford

Wilfred began studying at Jesus College Oxford in 1914, and joined the University Officers’ Training Corps. After only two terms, in March 1915 he enlisted in the Sherwood Foresters, the Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire Regiment.

Died on his second day in the trenches

Wilfred was commissioned Second Lieutenant in the 10th Battalion, Sherwood Foresters: his previous officer training would have helped him gain this appointment. His battalion landed in France in November 1915 and spent a quiet November, Christmas and January. On 13 February 1916 they moved to the trenches at Ypres, and the following day they were subjected to a fierce bombardment and counter attack by German forces, suffering many casualties. In his leadership role Wilfrid would have been particularly exposed to danger, and he is recorded as having died at St Eloi on 14 February, aged 21, although his body was not recovered. He is remembered on the Ypres Menin Gate Memorial.

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