Eric Duncan Roy ANDERSON [425]

  General Notes:

1895 557/183 ANDERSON Eric Duncan Roy, John ANDERSON Mary Ann GUNTER, Adelaide
1959 891/3024 ANDERSON Eric Duncan Roy, Mount Barker

Eric was a Driver in the Australian Army and served in France WW1
Service No. 1976 300 (MT [Mechanical Transport]) ASC 17 Divisional Supply Column (9 ASC) (Dec 1914)

Eric leased Greys Inn Hotel, Mt Barker; a hotel Woodside; a quarry between Mt Barker & Echunga.

The AIF Project
Eric Duncan Roy ANDERSON
Regimental number 1976
Religion Church of England
Occupation Chauffeur
Address Norma Street, West Adelaide, South Australian
Marital status Single
Age at embarkation 19
Next of kin Mother, Mrs Mary Anderson, Norma Street, West Adelaide, South Australian
Enlistment date 12 September 1914
Rank on enlistment DM
Unit name 300th Mechanical Transport, Army Service Corps (17th Divisional Ammunition Column (9th Army Service Corps)
AWM Embarkation Roll number 25/99/1
Embarkation details Unit embarked from Melbourne, Victoria, on board HMAT A40 Ceramic on 22 December 1914
Rank from Nominal Roll Driverntbl Unit from Nominal Roll 1st Mechanical Transport Company
Fate Returned to Australia 23 October 1918

Letters written home during WW1:
Image 243,244,245,246,247,248,249 (1-15 pages)
24 Jan 1915
(1) 243
At Sea, Suez, Finished Feb 10th
Dear Mother & All at home
Am writing this letter on an off chance of being able to post it to you without it being censored so as to give you an idea of our trip. We are now just over two Days sail in the Red sea, with the Arabian Desert on one side & the Sahara on the other and we expect to be at "Suez", (this end of the Canal,) about Friday Jan 29th and from there we don't know where we are going, but may be able to tell you later
(2) 244
on in this letter. Well in the first place Mother we are on the "Ceramic" which I suspected before we left, She is the largest Vessel that travels in Australian waters, (18,000) odd Ton and carries the largest number of Troops ever been carried in the World 3,000 She is a beautiful thing and travels along lovely. We Steamed out of Port Melbourne about 2 p.m. on the 22nd Dec 1914, and the Day was warm, I met Arther[sic] Starkey, he is on the "Ceramic" & is keeping well.
(3) 244
There was great amusement the first night, when the men started to try their Hammocks, but they soon got used to them. There was nothing out of the usual until 25th Christmas Day, and we had a Church Parade at 10 o/c, Troops Decorate their Tables etc, We had Fowl and Plum Pudding for lunch and the Colonel supplied each man of the D.?M.C. with a smoke. We Steamed on and all went well and we pulled in to Albany on the 28th
(4) 243
about 5 o/c A.M., but anchored in the bay, several other Troopships pulled up through the Day, some of which we left at Melbourne. We Anchored there for three Days leaving there about 9.30 on the 31st Dec. There were Seventeen Troopships all told and one "Submarine" and she is all the escourt [sic] we have had so you can imagine what power England has over the Sea. The ships were in 3 lines at ½ mile Distances, we were leading the left Flank & it was a great site in mid Ocean.
(5) 245
Friday Jan 1st 1915.
One poor fellow from the T.S. Borda passed away with Pneumonia and was buried at 11 o/c A.M.
Jan 2nd
All men from the D.S.C. were Vaccinated, some had a bad time with it, but personally it took very little effect on me. Today I managed to get all the names of the Troop Ships so will give you them now. "Ulysies"[sic] (Ulysses), "Vestalia", "Ayrshire", "Burrima", "Themistocles", "Port McQuarry"[SIC] (Port Macquarie), "Borda", "Suevic", "Persic", Four German Prizes & 3 New Zealand boats & the "Ceramic". http://www.flotilla-australia.com/hmat2.htm
(6) 246
Well Mother nothing very much out of the usual happened until Jan 8th and letters were collected from the "Persic" Suevic & Ceramic and handed across to the "Ulysies"[sic] and were taken to Columbo with the remainder of the Convoy, and the three Boats previously mentioned went on, so I never got a look at Columbo, I wrote to you and several others then & at Albany. The Heat was severe just out from where the Convoy Split up, the perspiration was running down my pen while writing to you so you can guess it was fairly warm.
(7) 246
We passed over the Equator early on Sunday morning the 10th Jan. and they were just painting the line, so we had to anchor until they had finished & lifted it for us. We had Church Parade at 10. A.M. and in the afternoon at 2.20 all those who had recovered from Vaccination were Innoculated[sic] (inoculated), and after that we received our Pay £1-being 20 Days out from Melbourne.
Thursday Jan 14th.
Sea Very Calm we passed Monakay[sic] Island (?Seychelle grp) about mid-day. Lighthouse at each end & a few Yachts about but nothing much to see.
(8) 245
Sat 16th My Birthday, I celebrated with a few more of the boys with some Lemonade and a bush biscuit, but none of us got Loppy.
Mon 18th We passed "Sacotra" (off the Horn of Africa) at a Distance and could see very little.
Wed 20th Mails were again collected and sorted ready for post at Aden.
We Arrived at Aden about Midday, Bay very pretty and the Hills and Rocks looked beautiful, and were a great change of scenery, we anchored out a bit, but the Blacks were able to come to the side of the boat, and sell there [sic] goods.
(9) 247
You could buy cigarettes from 3d per hundred to 1/6 per hundred and cigars from 2/6 to 5/- per hundred and of course that suited the boys A.1.
Jan 21st Thursday
Another dose of Innoculation[sic], No one allowed ashore, three boats Quarintined[sic].
Sat Jan 23rd 15.
Steamed from Aden about 5 o/c P.M. picked up the rest of Convoy and got the Mails from the "Ulysies"[sic] and then there was excitement for letters, I received eight, all of which had been addressed to Albert Park. We had a good view of "The Empress of Russia
(10) 248
one of Englands latest Auxiliary Cruisers. We made through the Red Sea and arrived at Suez about 6 A.M. on Thurs Jan 28th. We received news that the Turks were fighting along the Canal, Orders were received to pack all belongings ready for Disembarkation in case we had to fight our way through the Canal. We received our pay of £1- up till Jan 30th. We entered the Canal on Friday 29th about 9.30 A.M. The bridge of Vessel was piled up with Sand bags to prevent any Sniping that may take place while going through Canal.
(11) 248
We reached the first lake and anchored for the night. Well Mother today is Tuesday February 2nd 1915 and I am going to make another start on this letter, We are not able to post them here without them being censored, we are now at Alexandria and are going on to England so we may be allowed to send them on there without being censored. Well on Jan 30th We left first lake about 9 A.M. and it was a very interesting trip through the Canal to Pt. Said. Our Troops were throwing Cigarettes and Tobacco to the Different Troops that were heavily entrenched on
(12) 247
the bank, Amongst them were Australians, New Zealanders, and several Black Races. We had a good view of an Armed "Biplane" which passed over us at "Ismalea,"[sic] (Ismailia where Suez widens to include Lake Timsah) a little Town about ½ way through the Canal. We reached Port Said about 5 P.M. and there was great excitement when the boys saw a couple of "Sea Planes" Cruising round our Masts, then they would make down, for the water and go along the water then into the Air again, it was a great novelty, but since, we have heard that they were shot. We anchored there for the night
(13) 249
and were not allowed ashore, but left there on Jan 31st 1915 and had a good look at the Monument of the Man who built the Canal, He was a French-man named "De Lessops" there is no doubt it is a wonderful piece of Engineering. Arrived at "Alexandria" on Feb 1st about 9 A.M. and we had orders that we were going on to England, but I don't know when we will be leaving here, in the course of a Day or two I expect but will try and post this in England. Left Alexandria today Sunday Feb 7th after having a week
(14) 250
here, and a lot of fooling about, Alexandria is not a place I would choose to live in, very Dirty we left about 8 o/c this morning Sunday Feb 7th bound for England, it has been colder this month in Alexandria than it has been for 15 years. We have been issued with a rabbit skinned waistcoat so will find the benefit of that. Well mother you can let Mr Norman read this, its too much to write very often, because our time is well taken up, there is not much news now but perhaps will be in a day or two.
(15) 250
Wed Feb 10th
Well Dear Mother I was expecting to call at "Malta" on our way but we never, we passed there yesterday 9th and had a very close view, Today we have been sailing along the African coast and have been very much interested at different sights, this afternoon we passed a Battleship very close, and had a good view of it. We are calling at Gibralter[sic] Gibraltar and will be there on Friday, and from there we are going to Southampton. I am going to close this letter Mother so that I will be ready
(15)[sic] (16) 249
to post the first opportunity I get, I have written to Harry and will post his first chance. I will write again first chance after landing, will put this letter in two parts there is too much for one Envelope. Must close now Mum, hope you are all in the best of Health as this leaves me with Love to all from your affectionate Son & Brother. Eric

Image: (348 picture Post-cards) & (349 addressee & note)
26 Feb 1915
POSTCARDS TO FAMILY FROM ERIC
Postcards sent from Aden by Eric to family members
All headed: Carte postale, From 1976, E.D.R. Anderson, A.I.F., On active service, No Stamps Available
(1)
Photo: Aden - Water Cart ( a camel harnessed to cart carrying large barrel)
Master I. Anderson, Norma Street, West Adelaide, South Australia
Dear Ivan, This is how they carry water, the old Camel looks funny harnessed in a cart.
Love from Eric
(2)
Photo: Camel Market - Aden
Miss Jessie Anderson, Norma Street, West Adelaide, South Australia
Dear Jess, Hope you will like this card, plenty of Camels.
Love from Eric
(3)
Photo: Wood Camels-Steamer Point - Aden
Mr D. Anderson, Norma Street, West Adelaide, South Australia
Dear Don, Just a P.C. of Camels, wood carting with Love from Eric
(4)
Photo: Aden - The inner harbour Steamer Point
Miss A. Anderson, Norma Street, West Adelaide, South Australia
Dear Annie , Just a Card with a water scene Love from Eric

Image: (350 Picture post-cards), (351 addressee and note)
POST CARDS FROM ERIC TO FAMILY
Not dated but probably early 1915
(Le Cairo, Gezirah Palace - postcard to Annie)
From 1976 E.D.R. Anderson Div Supply Column 9th A.A.S.C., A.I.F. England On Active Service No Stamps Available D.S.L.M.T.
Miss A. Anderson, Norma St, West Adelaide, South Australia.
Dear Annie, Just a line to let you know I am well, and hope you are the same, there is not much news will send a card to kiddies with Love from your Aff. Brother, Eric.

(Two Middle Eastern men in local dress - postcard to Don)
From 1976, E.D.R. Anderson, Div Supply Column, 9th A.A.S.C., A.I.F. England On Active Service No Stamps Available D.S.L.M.T.
Mr D. Anderson, Norma Street, West Adelaide, South Australia.
Dear Don, Just a card from Alexandria hoping it will find you well hope you are a good lad and Do what Mum Tells you, be good. Love From Eric

(Fellahines Ramassant Le Fumier - postcard to Jess)
From 1976, E.D.R. Anderson, Div Supply Column, 9th A.A.S.C., A.I.F., On Active Service No Stamps Available D.S.L.M.T.
Miss J. Anderson, Norma Street, West Adelaide, South Australia.
Dear Jess, Just a card hoping you are well, hope you will like it, cannot give you any news Mother has got all I can give, be a good girl. Love from Eric

(Chameau en Desert - postcard to Ivan)
From 1976 E.D.R. Anderson, Div Supply Column, 9th A.A.S.C., A.I.F. On Active Service No Stamps Available, D.S.L.M.T.
Master Ivan Anderson, Norma Street, West Adelaide, South Australia.
Dear Ivan, This is a Camel with the black men standing by it hope you will like the card cannot write much to you but hope you are a good boy from your loving brother Eric.

Image: 251,252,253,254 I
22 Dec 1917 (251)
France
My Dear Mother
I was expecting a few Australian letters on my return from Paris but so far the Christmas Aussie Mail has not yet arrived so will be on the lookout at anytime now. My word what a City Paris is, it is absolutely the place, one would never know there was a War on there. Talk about London being a decent place its not in the same street, its just Glorious, the beautiful Avenues and Buildings are a site worth seeing. Eiffel Tower is just lovely, two days in Paris or 2 weeks in London and I would take the 2 days in Paris. Everything is of the latest and without a doubt it's the gayest place I've ever seen, no wonder the boys used to go mad about it.
(2) (252)
You will no doubt be surprised to get the cable I am sending you in the course of a day or two Mother but I want some more money, if only I had the money I could have had Christmas or New Year in England but I was broke and they are sending two men a day on leave & my turn has come round. Lively Leave for England is now 14 days so as soon as the money comes that I cabled for I'm off for fourteen at the best and I think the majority will be spent in Scotland, hardly know what to do it has come as rather a surprise to me and was hardly prepared for it; The place we are in at present is a hell of a hot shop and if I get away for fourteen days it will be worth going for if only to be out of this so am not going to say no while the chance is going, expect I'll soon be minus a banking account, when you answer this you can let me know how I stand over there, Will you?
(3) (253)
Its 3 years today Mother since I sailed from Port Melbourne (hoping for a Bath) never mind it will not go on more than another five Years so Cheerio to my deferred money is up to £55 now I wonder if there will be any trouble about getting it when its all over anyhow it will be handy.
I have some views of Paris to send you Mother but I think I'll wait until I get to England and send them from there, I'll also send some of Scotland. Am sending for £25-and I think that will give me a fairly good time must purchase a pair of boots and an overcoat before doing anything that runs away with a pound or two to start with but one must look respectable mustn't one. I am enclosing a letter for Floss. Will you post it on for me Mother? There is not much news, The weather is damned cold here at present in fact I personally feel it more than last year although its not nearly so severe.
254)
Now Dear Mother I must close give my love the Normans hope this will find you all in the pink, had a letter from Harry a week or ten days ago he is keeping well, am off to bed now. Lots of Love & best wishes to all. Your Affectionate Son & Brother. Eric

Images: 255, 257
Sund Jan 7th 1918
No 1 Aust NZ T Coy
My Dear Mother & all at home,
Received your ever welcome letter dated May 9 and was pleased to get it aoso type written copy of P. of W. Bill of Fare, That is exactly what I sent you Mother some weeks ago, & so if you intend subscribing to the Fund let me know when and how after you are sending. The only parcel I have been able to get through to him are those that are sent by the fund regularly and those that I paid for have my name on the parcels.
Fancy Annie Hooking having to visit the hospital again what a time she is having with her leg, its rather a pity those damned Quacks you have out there don't wake up and make a success of the job instead of leaving her in misery like they have done. On Wed July 10th we are holding sports and a concert with free booze, I think to celebrate the Unit's 3rd Anniversary
(2) (257)
in France so there will be something doing that night, especially if its anything like last Year's turnout.
We are having fairly good weather here of late Mother but it will not be long now before we have the winter on again, let hope it will be just as mild as last then there will be no complaints.
There is very little news Mother. I am having a dash for another trip to Paris for 8 days and will probably get it by the time this reaches you, however will let you know at some later date. Must ring /sign off now hope this will find you all in the pink. Give my regard Love to any body you might see that know me also to Mr & Mrs Norman. Lots of Love & Kisses, Your Affect. Son & brother, Eric
P.S. Am enclosing another letter, will you post it for me please.

Image: 259-260
Envelope as per Len G. Baker of Victoria, addressed to: Mrs J Anderson, George Street, Hawthorne
1918 Mon Jan 28th, France
My Dear Mother
This letter is being taken to you by one of our boys (Mr Baker) who is being sent to Aussie on sick furlough, and who I spent a few days with on my last leave in London. He will probably tell you quite a lot, of interest, if he delivers this personally but that of course he will not know until he gets to Adelaide, he may not stop there anytime because his home is in Victoria.
Should he deliver this himself Please give him a warm reception Won't you? And if he happens to have a day or two to spend in Adelaide ask him to stop with you and make a fuss of him, you will find him a damn fine fellow and he is from a lovely home. You will be able to find out quite a lot of our camp life & experiences here which I have no doubt will be of no little interest to you.
He has had rather a rough spin six opperations[sic] on his leg and a chance of losing it but he will be able to give you details of same.
I am keeping well and am just about settled down after my leave now. I am looking for the time (which I think is not far distant) when we will all make for home.
There is nothing of importance to relate Mother but sincerely hope this will find you all in the Pink. I will mention again that I received the £25-you sent in January. Will write again very soon and hope to hear from you very soon.
My Love & best Wishes to all
Your Affect Son, Eric xxxxxx

Image 261
14 May 1918 (letter from Len Baker and enclosure from Eric dated 28 Jan 1918)
Adressed to: Mrs J Anderson George St, Hawthorne Adelaide S.A.
From Len G Baker: Coragulac, Colac, Victoria
14-5-18
Dear Mrs Anderson,
I enclose a Letter given to me in London before I left there, by your son Eric, who was on leave from France, while I was on Sick furlough from hospital. He asked me to deliver it when in Adelaide, but we did not call there. He & I are in the same unit in France.
It is a long time since I received the Letter, but I did not leave England as early as expected, however it is better late than never.
Eric was looking A1 and enjoyed his Leave thoroughly; he had previously been on Leave to Paris, where he also had a good time. He was with Corporal McKnight from Kapunda.
Hoping this finds you well, & that you will soon see Eric again.
Yours sincerely, Len. G. Baker.
There is a possibility of my being sent back to France, should such happen I will let you know, in case you would like to send a message. L.G.B.

Image 262-263-264-265
15 Feb 1918
Addressed to Mrs J Anderson George St Hawthorn
Postmarked 20 Feb Army Post Office 561
GPO Adelaide stamped 18 Apr 1918
Friday Feb 15th
France
My Dear Mother
I am registering this letter to make sure of your getting it with the news that Harry is a prisoner of War in Germany, you must not be alarmed at this news Dear Mother for take it from me it's a blessing in disguise, and you can rest assured that you will see him after this is over but as he was situated before there was a thousand to one chance of you never seeing him. He has evidently been wounded because where he wrote he was in Hospital but doing well and all he wanted was cigarettes so I take it his wounds are not of a serious nature, he cannot be
(2)
terribly bad or else he would not be able to write, so you must not worry Mother and think that he is badly off, I tell you this I was more than pleased to get the news for it's the best thing that could have happened. His job as a Machine Gunner was a terribly risky one, and I have expected to hear the worst for a long time but now thank the Lord he is safe & out of it all. I don't know whether you will be able to send him parcels from Australia Mother but you can make enquiries about it, they can be sent from England through some society so I will get busy tomorrow and slog one along at the very earliest, and will make a practice of sending them regular, he will not be so badly off Mother because they gets[sic] lots of things from England, bread etc is sent
(3)
by arrangement of some society through Switzerland, of course they are not at liberty to run about, but have seen several letters from different ones and they reckon its not at all bad. Money can be sent to them through some particular channel I don't know the correct way to go about it but will make all the necessary enquiries and you had better send me 5 or £10 and I'll send him a couple of pounds at a time, I will write to him tonight and tell him what news there is, He will only be able to write about 3 letters and 2 cards I think per month so I will tell him to use all his privileges in writing to you, he can drop me a card occasionally and let me know if there is anything in particular he wants.
I received a letter from you today Mother dated Dec 14 and
(4)
was ever so pleased to get it, and you have seen Harrold James Eh? He should be puzzled over me neglecting to write him, I have my reasons for not writing and believe me I'll not forget to tell him when I meet him, I'll send him a foot warmer one of these days.
On Tuesday evening last I had rather a nasty accident, An Officer on horse-back collided with my old Chariot, and I believe he has a fractures scalp and broken collar-bone, I expect there will be a big enquiry about it, but I am clear he was entirely on his wrong side but will let you know results later. I havn't[sic] any more news for your Mother but hope this will find you all quite well, don't let the news of Harry worry you, Give my love to the Normans and any one else you happen to meet.
Lots of Love & best wishes, Your Affect Son & Brother Eric

Image: 266
After Feb 1918
To Mary Ann Anderson
Harry's Address: Ply/14431, Private H.G. Ritchie, Barachen Lazarett Mülheim Ruhr, Germany
Dear Mother
You had better cable the cash to Bank of Adelaide London and see if you can cable it from Bank of Adelaide King Wm. Street, instead of through the Commonwealth the latter mess things about too much.
Love from Eric

Image: 268,270,271
Addressed to: Mrs J Anderson George Street Hawthorne SA
Sunday March 10th (1918), France
My Dear Mother
I received a letter from you dated Dec 26th and was pleased to get it, I have also received 2 post cards and a short letter from Cousin Dot which she received from Harry he seems to be getting on alright he was wounded in the right leg but apparently not serious. I wrote to his O.C. and am enclosing the answer that I got from him its only very short but I expect he could not tell me anymore. I received a letter from Gwen Davis today also a P.C. of herself, so must answer it soon, also had a letter from Annie Hooking, she
(2)
is back at Kingston Terrace and seems to think her operation is not successful, what a jolly shame isn't it? After going through what she has done. Yes Mother I have heard all about the Conscription Votes and am very pleased they never got it. I will mention again Mother that your parcel came to hand quite safely and was pleased to get it many thanks to all, I have received the lot now. I also received a Christmas gift the Comforts Fund from a Miss Anderson (Nellie) from Kingston Terrace, Nth Adelaide the name of the house is "Palmyra" so get busy and see if you can find out where abouts she lives and tell me, tell Jessie to look
(3)
up the Directory and if she finds it tear the page out and send it on for its most essential that I should write to Dear Nellie; expect she is jolly near eighty though. In the near future Mother be on the lookout for a change in my address I hardly know yet what it will be but am expecting a change soon. Must close now Mother there is very little to write about. Give my regards to Mr & Mrs Norman & family (you never mention them) hope this will find you all well with Lots of Love & Kisses Your Affect Son & Brother, Eric

Image: 278,279,280, 281,282,283
Addressed to: Mrs J Anderson George Street Hawthorne SA
When answering this, address to Name and No., No.1 Aust M.T. Coy France (nothing else)
Sat March 30th 18, France
My Dear Mother & all at home
I was delighted to receive your most welcome letter dated Jan 24th, your birthday Mother, I was rather late in sending greetings but I thought of you on that date. Quite a coincidence you having a neighbour by the same name and the Christian name Eric however that cable was from me and some cable offices will not allow you to sign just Christian name so I had to sign "Anderson". I wish I hadn't had leave though or at least wish I hadn't gone to England for I spent a most miserable
(2) 279
time there, you need to be a Millionaire to exist there for a fortnight and you are pested[sic] to death with Military Police, they came round nearly every morning to the Hotel where I was staying at seven a/c entering every bedroom and waking all the Kahkie[sic] up to see their pass, next leave I am going to do Paris, Nice & Italy if possible so should have rather a good time. If you cable again at any time Mother go straight to the Bank of Adelaide in Kg Wm St and send it direct to B of A. London. The Commonwealth are too busy and mess one about so much. So Annie is going to be married Eh? I though she would have waited until
(3) 280
I came home however you had better not tell her I said so or she may be offended, they have evidently decided in a hurry but will look for a letter from Annie soon expect she will write and tell me. I am mentioning the fact again that all your parcels have reached me safely and many thanks to all for them. I say Mother you can send me a couple of tins of Havelock Special smoking mixture occasionally if you like, I have had a few tins lately through the Comforts fund and now its all gone I can't get a decent smoke its great tobacco but cannot buy it here, its an Australian line, don't worry about sending other goods Mother because its really not worth the trouble or expense for
(4) 281
everything you send I can buy much cheaper than you without any risk of losing it if at anytime you want to send anything just let it be a pair of socks or tobacco the tobacco is in a round red tin, not the flat tins. I suppose you all at home are getting the news of the New Fritz Offensive and the terrific fighting which is now in full swing, it is certainly the fiercest fighting in the Worlds History, He has taken a bit of ground but at a tremendous cost, he hasn't got it all his own way and I feel sure he will be a big loser in the end. I see in this mornings paper he has
(5) 282
taken "Albert" (SW of Arras) that is where I met Harry before he was taken P. of W. you will see the Village in one of those books I sent home, look for the Church with the over hanging figure, it was right in front of that he jumped into my Lorry. I do hope you are not worrying about him Mother because there is no need to and I think he is wonderfully fortunate to be well out of this present lot. Three parcels of food is sent to him every fortnight and if Fritz does not give him any, the parcels contain plenty. I will enclose a list of the contents of each parcel so you can see for yourself. South Aus friends of mine will have to be content with Wizz-bangs (French Cards) this mail
(6) 283
as you will imagine there is precious little time for letter writing under present state of affairs, Its raining like blazes again and the lovely mud is thick where ever you move. This is about the lot this time Mother, thanks ever so much for writing to poor old Floss, my request for you to do so may not have appealed to you but am jolly glad you wrote; had a letter from her and she is highly delighted about it. Now I must close hope this will find you all in the very best of health.
Tons of Love & Kisses to all you Affect Son & Brother.
Eric D Anderson

Image: 008,009
(likely to Eric in France)
9.3.18
Forton Bks, Gosport, Hants
Dear Sir
In reference to your enquiry to Col Brooke re Pte Ritchie Prisiner[sic] of War, I am directed by Col Brooke to reply. I have enclosed Circular explaining System of sending parcels to him, each PofW is supplied with six parcels per four weeks whether relatives subscribe or not, each subscription of 7/- entitles subscribers name to go on parcel as sent by him, in reference to money you can send by international Money Order, If you have any difficulty to send yourself from France I shall be very pleased to send it from here for you, I can send you on the Post-Office receipt. Shall be glad to answer any enquiry or do anything that is possible for you in ref to your bro at anytime
Yours faithfully, M Harris Lt, Hm Sec, RMPW, Gosport

Image: 267
Not dated but likely March 1918 or later.
Written to Eric in response to his enquiry re Harry, after Harry taken Prisoner of War.
To: Dr (Driver) E. Anderson, 1976 No. 1 Austn Div Supply Column A.I.F. France
Sir,
In reply to your letter of the 10th Feby, we regret that our information is very vague.
Your brother along with others formed a part of 2 Gun's crews in a forward position on Dec 30th 1917, when the enemy made a raid in considerable numbers and took them by surprise. Our men were all reported "missing believed prisoners", and later we were advised that they were all prisoners of war.
His correspondence was all returned to the postal authorities in accordance with usual proceedings.
We regret our information is not more explicit.
Signed: W.A. Moon for O.C. Lt squiggle
An official stamp: 273 MACHINE GUN COY. No. Z/484 26 FEB-1918.

Image:284,285
Enclosure information to Mother re parcels sent by Royal Marines Prisoner of War Fund
The parcels are sent by R. Marines Prisoner of War Fund, Forton Barracks, Gosport England.
The actual cost of sending these parcels (which are three per two weeks) is 7/- per parcel. The money is raised by the R.M.P.of W. Fund and friends or relative wishing to subscribe to the Fund may do so, the parcels are addressed to prisoner, and the subscriber of 7/- is recognised as the sender of one parcel and the parcel bears the name of sender, the content of parcels are as follows:-
(No 1 parcel)
1 Tin of meat & Vegetable ration
1 Tin of sausages
1 Tin of Sardines ¼ lb of Tea
½ lb Campaign Biscuits 1 packet of Sugar
packet of Sweet Biscuits 1 Box of dates
1 lb of Jam
½ lb of Margarine
½ lb of Cheese
1 Tin of MilkP.T.O.
(No 2 parcel)
1lb of Bacon½ lb Margarine
1 Tin of Salmon 1 Tin of milk
1 Camp Pie1 Tin of Cocoa
1 Tin of beans1 Packet of Sugar
½ lb Campaign BiscuitsRaisins
1 Tin of Golden Syrup
(No 3 parcel)
Army rationTin of milk
Chicken LoafPepper & mustard
Tin of beans
½ lb Campaign biscuits
Packet of Sweet biscuits
Tin Golden Syrup
1 lb Jam
½ lb Margarine
¼ lb Tea
packet of Sugar
Bread is sent from Switzerland Tobacco & Cigarettes are sent in the food parcels as well, so you see its not so bad, hope you will understand this. Love from Eric

Image: 286,287,288,289,290
Sat April 27th (1918)
No 1 Aust M. T. Coy, France.
My Dear Mother
Your registered letter to hand dated Feb 13th but was very sorry to hear you had received a message saying Harry was missing because I can quite imagine your feelings. I never dreampt[sic] you would get a message of any kind otherwise I would have sent you a cable right away. However now that you know he is a prisoner of War I sincerely hope you will not worry, personally I think he is most fortunate
(2) 287
to be away from this Hell that has been raging for weeks and after numerous enquiries I am well satisfied that he is not doing too badly and by the strain of his letters he appears to be alright. I am enclosing full particulars in this letter covering the Welfare of Marine prisoners also a letter I received from the Sec of the prisoners Fund and Harrys new address. I have received the £10-you sent me Mother and have sent £2-2-0 to the Sec of the Funds that means my name will be labelled on 6 parcels as being the sender have also sent 10/- worth
(3) 288
of Cigarettes and £2-in hard cash so will be waiting for a reply from him in a month or so then I'll send him some more money. I havn't[sic] received any cards or letters direct from Harry but Cousin Dot sends hers on to me and the last she received had his new address and I'll bet you 10 to one Mother you cant read it; Listen!
Ply/14431 Pte H.G. Ritchie R.M.L.I., 223rd machine Gun Coy,
Kriegsgefaugeuculager. II, Remabahana , Munster in Westfalen, Block 4 Room 12, Germany. What about the bet?
(4) 289
Now Dear Mother there is a claim you can make if you get busy and push your way on your side of the water. When I left Australia, Soldiers who had dependencies could draw a separation allowance as long as their pay and allowance did not exceed 8/- per day. It has been altered since October (1917) and now the two combined must not exceed 10/- per day and I have been busy here trying to get the extra 2/- per day but can do nothing here, you must claim it from your side, the Chief Paymaster here told me all I can do is to write to you and tell you to put in for it, and you will also be able to draw what you
(5) 290
have missed since October, so give it a dash Mother 2/- a day is worth having. Now I must think of closing. We are hellish busy and are getting a pretty lively time so pardon scrawl, I will write again soon, I want to write to Harry tonight. Give my very best to Mr. & Mrs Norman and family. I hope this will find you all in the Pink. Lots of Love & Kisses to all. Your affect Son & brother.
I have not written to Annie N. for a week or two sent her a French Card last mail but have had no time for writing. Love Eric.

Image: 292,293,294
20 May 1918
Posted to: Mrs J Anderson George Street, Hawthorn, SA 1918
France
No.1 Aus M. T. Coy
Mon May 20th
My Dear Mother
Your letter to hand dated Feb 21 and was pleased to get it and to know you are all in the Pink. I had a short letter from Dot yesterday she is keeping well and said Harry is doing alright, will give you his change of address in case my last letter does not reach you. We are having Glorious weather here at present, have just had a nice swim in
the Canal and am feeling good, We have not had a great deal of sleep the last week or so, its lovely and moonlight at night and
(2)
Fritz is here all night long slinging his bombs about and playing particular Hell it was after four o/c yesterday morning before it went to bed and stuff falling all round its marvellous how a man misses it, one of these days I will try and send you one or two pieces that fall and you can get an idea of how they would scratch anybody they hit. Yes Mother I think all the parcels you sent have reached me, many thanks for sending them, a few days ago I received a lovely cake from Annie Hooking so must write to her and thank her for it, lately I have done ever so little writing but in these times we are kept going a
(3)
great deal and letter writing is anything but a job to look forward to.
So, Edie is in Adelaide again Eh! Give her my love and tell her she is a long time thinking about answering my letter. Now I must ring off Mother its getting late and Fritz is on the Sky-line so must put out the light. Give my love to Mr & Mrs Norman and family hope this will find you all well as it leaves me.
Lots of Love & Kisses Your Affect Son & brother. xxxxxx Eric

Image: 295,296
5 Jun 1918
No. 1 Aust M.T. Coy.
France
June 5th 1918
My Dear Mother & All at home,
Your letters to hand dated March 7 & March 27 and was awfully pleased to get them. Was very sorry to hear of Ivan's mishap and sincerely hope ere this he is quite alright again. We are having delightful weather here lately but expect you are getting the news of the fierce fighting that is going on and that takes all the beauty from the weather. I am pleased to know I am not broke yet but one of these days there is a possibility of whats left getting a dinge[sic], if this Paris leave come along again. I am going to hop in for my fourteen days there, it's a very decent little village and am going to let no change slip by of getting there. Those books you were speaking of Mother, are they called "Australia in the Great War" if so I sent them, I mentioned them in one of my letters and there should be twelve altogether if I remember rightly, I also sent a set to Annie H. they were to be sent through the High Commissioner
(2)
I think, I just paid for them here and they were to be sent from England. I had a letter from Dot and tells me Harry is keeping well up to date, I think he is very fortunate Mother to be out of the struggle that is raging at present, you should be getting a little from him soon. Now Dear Mother there is no news as usual I am keeping well and sincerely hope this will find you all the same. Give my love to Mr & Mrs Norman & family, hope this will find them all in the pink.
Lots of Love & best wishes to all, Your Affect Son & brother, Eric
P.S. I am sending you a copy of our paper called "Aussie" you will probably be pleased to read it. Eric xxxxxx

Image: 298,299,300
19 Jun 1918
Addressed to: Mrs J Anderson, George Street, Hawthorn
Wed June 19th (1918), No. 1 Aus M.T. Coy, France.
My Dear Mother & all at home,
I was ever so pleased to receive your letter dated April 19th and to know you are all well at home. You appear to be worrying yourself about Harry Mother, but there is really no need and as for you sending him parcels from Aussie. I would advise you not to for I don't think they will reach him, and apart from that he is having parcels sent from England regularly that contain enough to keep him even if Fritz give him nothing. Dot had a letter from a chap that was in the same company as Harry and was taken prisoner at the same time, and he was wounded badly enough to be sent back to England, he wrote to Dot telling her Harry is working in a Printing Office for Fritz and that he was receiving his parcels regular so apparently he is not doing too badly.
(2)
I am rather glad he was not wounded severely enough to be sent back to England because you may depend if Fritz sent him back he wouldn't be much use. I say Mother you have got me rather in doubt about the Ten pounds Harry sent you while in England, in reading your letter I cannot quite understand whether you mean that you sent that Ten pounds to me or not, but if you have you must go and draw Ten pounds from my lot at once to replace it.
No Mother, up to date I have heard nothing whatever regarding my Accident and I hardly think I will now, but you can bet something disastrous would have happened had any blame been attached to me, probably would have served my time at the spread Eagle or the crucifix stunt before this but they cannot blame me I was doing the regulation speed, had the regulation lights was on my right side and my brakes were excellent and I had had nothing to drink.
We are having glorious weather but as you will see by the paper accounts things are pretty warm in the fighting part of the business.
(3)
Fancy Mrs Fidler burying another Son, What terrible bad luck they are having. I received a letter from Annie Hooking today so must answer that as soon as possible probably tonight. Received Don's snap enclosed in your letter alright he must have altered a great deal since I left, expect I will hardly know any of you by the time I get home.
When is Annie going to do the trick? Havn't[sic] heard anything more about it lately, Was thinking what I could give her for a present but I think I will leave it unless she would care for the hard cash but you can ask her about it, if there is anything she would care for in particular You can let me know.
Now I must think about ringing off. Hope this will find you all in the pink give my love to any one you might see that I know, also Mr & Mrs Norman & family hope they are all well. Lots of Love & best wishes. Your Affect. Son & Brother, Eric.

Image: 301,302
24 Jun 1918
Addressed to Mrs J Anderson, George St, Hawthorne
No. 1 Aust M.T. Coy
France
Mon June 24th 1918
My Dear Mother
I received another letter from you today dated April 2nd which should have reached me before the last one dated I think April 16th however perhaps it went further round. So Jessie was 20 yrs on Good Friday, Eh? Am sure I will hardly know her when I get back. Just wish her many happy returns from me will you better late than never but I cannot for the life of me, think of the date of either Annie or Jessie's birthday. I have a couple of Shell splinters Mother that I am going to try and send home. I think they will let us send them have had them some time with the intention of sending them to you, they are a couple that have missed me by inches at different times and thought you might be able to form your own opinion as to the nature of the wound they would give a chap if they caught him, they are treacherous things to try and stop while they are gliding through the air I can assure you.
(2)
There is not much news Mother for its only a few days since I wrote to you but you might note the Address above No.1 Aust M.T. Coy France is all that is needed apart from name & number it is not necessary to put the A. M. & 9th A. S. C. in fact I believe it is rather a nuisance to the postal Authorities.
There is a great deal of talk here lately about 1914 men going home and all seem to think there is a big chance of it coming off so buck up and fatten that goose up for Christmas and if the train is not late I'll be with ?you for dinner.
I have written and told Harry not to bother about writing to me because they are priveleged[sic] to write too often and I get all details from Cousin Dot.
Must ring off now hope this will find you all in the pink give my Love to Mr & Mrs Norman & family hope they are well. Lots of Love & best wishes.
Your Affect Son & brother, Eric
Will you please post the enclosed Mother, Love from Eric xxx

Image 303,304
17 Oct 1918
addressed to: Mrs J Anderson 67 Carlton Parade Torrensville SA,
readdressed to: George St, Hawthorne
Wed Oct 17th (?1918)
France
My Dear Mother & all at home
Received your ever welcome latter dated July 25th and was pleased to get it; I also had another letter from Gwen Davis, so must bog in when I have time and do some letter writing, This is really the first opportunity I have had of writing for over a week and am going to send a few lines to Annie Hooking so you must excuse scrawl. I am enclosing a few post cards of Ypres as it was in 1914 but I can assure you there is a great difference in it now.
I saw Snowy Davis a few days ago he is keeping well and I might say it is rumoured that he has been recommended for the Military Medal.
I mentioned in my last letter about receiving notice from the Bank to the effect that my cash is there when I want it, have
(2)
heard nothing more about leave to Paris yet but hope to any day now.
I have been expecting to hear something of the photographs I sent to you (?so) far Mother but up till now no news has come to hand, however there is no immediate hurry, but I hope the damn things don't go down. So far the parcel you sent has not arrived but I don't ever expect to see it, its really not worth sending them I think. This morning I had a card from Harry, he is keeping well, must write to him very soon. Now Dear Mother there is little or no news so must ring off, hope this will find you all in the pink as it leaves me. Lots of Love & best wishes
You're Affect Son & Brother, Eric
End of War letters from Eric to his mother

The Mount Barker Courier and Onkaparinga and Gumeracha Advertiser Thursday 14 April 1949
Picnic Races in aid of Mount Barber Hospital on 21st May
A.P.P.U. SPONSORS BIG EFFORT FOR FUNDS
In arranging for a monster sports meeting to be conducted on Saturday 21st May, all district branches of the A.P.P.U. are leaving no stone unturned in their preparations to make the day something out of the ordinary for the general entertainment of district residents.
Already two thousand admission tickets have been printed and a large number of these will be disposed of in Adelaide and through neighboring branches of the A.P.P.U.
There will be ten horse events on which it is stated you will be able to "bet your shift." 'there will be attractions for those who don't like horses-an inter-town soapbox Derby; tossing the cabre (this is Ian Dean's other specialty); pillow fight; and Fred Luck and Eric Anderson backed by Dick Meegan, and assisted by the R.S.L., will be "hosts" for the afternoon. Alexander Bros, have kindly made their property available for the afternoon's function. There will be cash and trophy, prizes to the extent of nearly £40.
Les Dean (Pres. A.P.P.U.) and committee have decided that there will be entertainment for everybody from seven years to 70. Bruce Jackson will conduct a jumble stall and will be looking for donations to the stall.
Readers will remember the last picnic race meeting held for R.S.L. funds and the success achieved then. The R.S.L. is now backing the. APPU in this effort and is at present engaged in painting the hospital.
Events will start at 1 p.m. and the Hospital Ladies' Auxiliary have the meal arrangements in hand. Donations already received and to which all are invited to subscribe are as follows:-L. B. Dean £5; Morella Stud Farm, trophy; F. W. Luck, £2/ 2/; A. Follett £4; V. Wundersitz £2; Hotel Barker £2/2/; R. Meegan £2/2/; D. Daniel, trophy; A. T. Hirte £2/2/; R. Wollaston, trophy V. Symonds, £1/10/; owners of Solyman, trophy; A. Kavanagh £1; J. Davidson 1 sheep, for guessing weight of. Further donations will be acknowledged in these columns.
Some of the horse events already listed are: Probationers' Hack race, Nurses' Bracelet, Matron's Cup, Buyers' and Sellers' Stork Derby (with the trophy wrapped up in a nappy).
Jack Pick, of Echunga, will be clerk of the course; Ted Murphy (Solyman) will be clerk of scales; Roy Alexander will be starter; Herb. Walsh, judge; Paddy Kain, J. Lugg, N. Snelling and Jack Walsh, stewards; Rod Wollaston will attend to the gate. The full programme will be printed, probably in the next issue of the "Courier."

The Mount Barker Courier and Onkaparinga and Gumeracha Advertiser Thursday 26 January 1950
Hospital News
Foundations have been laid for the tennis court which is being erected for the Mount Barker, and District S.M. Hospital. Further to aid already given by local residents Mr. Eric Anderson, of Mount Barker Quarries, has donated two loads of gravel whilst the District Council has supplied the wire netting and used piping necessary for the erection of backstops. Council will also send a grader but for the purpose of spreading the gravel. The court will have only a dirt surface this year but hospital secretary, Lea Jacobs, said that he is confident sufficient funds can be raised to asphalt it next year. Voluntary labor has been arranged, for the erection of the netting and posts. The court will be in a lovely setting in the hospital grounds and will afford the nurses recreation, also an opportunity of entertaining friends.
Nurse Abraham has commenced her annual vacation.
The Board is anxious to find a new contractor to supply the hospital with firewood as their previous contractor has relinquished his business. Tenders are being called in an advertisement in this issue.

The Mount Barker Courier and Onkaparinga and Gumeracha Advertiser Wednesday 21 January 1953
PATROL TANKER AND QUARRY TRUCK
Frederick Herbert Curtin of Glanville, was driving a Neptune Oil tank waggon along the Adelaide Road at Mount Barker on Friday, when it came into collision with a large quarries truck owned and driven by Eric Duncan Roy Anderson, of Mount Barker. The mishap occurred at the intersection of Cherington St. Slight damage was done to both vehicles.

The Mount Barker Courier and Onkaparinga and Gumeracha Advertiser Wednesday 18 March 1953
Extensions to Fire Station Progressing
THE new wing to be built on to the existing Mount Barker Fire Station has been commenced and in a very short time should provide the much needed accommodation for the district ambulance.
Members of the Mount Barker Volunteer Fire Brigade were responsible for the erection of the existing fire elation and in that had provided housing for the larger unit and other fire-fighting equipment as well as sufficient accommodation for the ambulance. However, with expansion of the brigade and 'the acquisition of a small unit it was found that there was in sufficient space left to house the ambulance.
Brigade members solved the problem by volunteering to build an annexe or wing which would be the ambulance garage. The move received the blessing of the District Council who approved plans capably drawn up by Brigade member, Bay Orr, who is supervising building operations.
The new building will be 14 feet wide and run the full length of the fire station with provision at one end for a radio Control room to be used for brigade purposes.
On Monday, brigade secretary Mr. Keith Stephenson said the work was progressing quite satisfactorily and the response from brigade members for voluntary work was good to date.
Mr. Stephenson said he would like, on behalf of the brigade to thank townspeople for their generous donations of building materials.
Sand had been carted and donated by Mr. Gordon Wilson. Necessary gravel was supplied by Mr. Eric Anderson of Mount Barker Quarries. Littlehampton Brick Company had provided between two and three thousand bricks whilst J. A. Childs and Sons had also given 1000 bricks. Mr. Alf Hirte donated logs for the roofing timbers and these will be cut free of charge by Paterson Bros. Limited.
Requirements included roofing materials, doors, windows and ceilings to complete the job and Mr. Stephenson said that although he did not expect to get all of these items as donations be felt that the cost of the building would be kept at a minimum.

Border Watch (Mt Gambier)Tuesday 7 April 1953
Public Notice:
WOULD anyone knowing the whereabouts of Ernie Mincham, late of Mt. Barker, please ask him to contact Eric Anderson, of Mt. Barker.

Mount Barker Courier and Onkaparinga and Gumeracha Advertiser Tuesday 12 May 1959
Fatal Shooting Mishap
Mount Barker, May 11
Mr Eric Duncan Roy Anderson, 64, retired businessman of Mount Barker, was shot dead while shooting possums on his property on Sunday evening. Mr Anderson was alone at the time, and his body was found about 7.30 p.m. It is believed that his gun went off accidentally as he was getting through a fence. He is survived by his widow and five sons. Mount Barker Police have submitted a report to the local coroner (Mr. A.R. Gilbert).

The Advertiser (Adelaide) Tuesday 12 May 1959
Death Notices:
ANDERSON -On May 10th at Mt Barker (accidentally), Eric Duncan Roy Anderson of Government rd., Mt Barker, (late 1st Mechanical Transport, 1st A.I.F.), (late of Barmera), beloved husband of Lillian May, and loving father of Ivan, Douglas, Kenneth, Peter & Donald. Aged 64 years. At rest.

ANDERSON -On May 10th at Mt Barker (result of accident), Eric Duncan Roy Anderson of (late 1st Mechanical Transport, 1st A.I.F.), (late of Barmera), dearly loved first son of the late John and Mary Anderson, brother orf James (deceased), Harry, Anne, Jessie, Donald and Ivan. At rest.

The Advertiser (Adelaide) Tuesday 12 May 1959
Funeral Notice:
ANDERSON - THE FRIENDS of the late Mr. ERIC DUNCAN ROY ANDERSON, of Government road, Mount Barker (late of 1st Mechanical Transport, late of 1st A.I.F., late of Barmera), are respectfully informed that his Funeral will leave our Private Chapel, 76 Anzac Highway, Everard Park, TODAY (Tuesday), after a service commencing at 1.45 p.m. for the Centennial Park Cemetery, TURNER MOTOR FUNERALS,Chapel and Offices, 74-76 Anzac Highway, Everard Park. Phone LF2489.

Centennial Park Location: General D, Path 17, Grave 200A

  Research Notes:

Image courtesy of R Filsell

  Other Records

• Resided: Address, 1895, Rose Street, Goodwood Park, South Australia. South Australian Directory

• Resided: Address, 1896-1900, Fairford St, New Parkside, Adelaide, South Australia. SA Directory

• Resided: Address, 1901-1909, Rose Street, Goodwood Park, South Australia. SA Directory

• Resided: Address, 1909-1910, Scott's Creek, South Australia.

• Resided: Address, 1911-1914, Norma Street, Henley Bch & Lurline Road, West Adelaide. SA Directory

• WW1: Military Service, 1914-1919, First Mechanical Transport, 1st AIF. Driver in France

• Resided: Address, 1923-1945, Irrigation Settlement Barmera, South Australia. Occ: Viticulturist

• Australian Electoral Rolls 1903-1980: horticulturist, 1939, Block 207, Loveday, South Australia.

• Australian Electoral Rolls 1903-1980: horticulturist, 1941, blk 207 Barmera, South Australia.

• Australian Electoral Rolls 1903-1980: Wakefield Dist, 1943, Block 207, Barmera, South Australia. Anderson, Eric Duncan Roy, blk 207, Barmera, horticulturist M

• Resided: Address, 1946-1948, Gray's Inn Hotel, Mt Barker, South Australia. Occ: an Hotelier

• Resided: Address, 1948-1951, Bedford Hotel, Woodside, South Australia. Occ: an Hotelier & Quarry

• Resided: Address, 1958-1959, Government Road, Mt Barker, South Australia. Occ: Quarry

Eric married Lillian May 'Lil' DALLY [433] [MRIN: 145], daughter of John DALLY [6103] and Elizabeth Ann ROW [6104], on 1 Nov 1922 in Church of Christ, Adelaide, South Australia. (Lillian May 'Lil' DALLY [433] was born on 9 Jul 1894 in Port Adelaide, South Australia, died on 2 Dec 1977 in Evandale, Adelaide, South Australia and was buried on 6 Dec 1977 in Centennial Park Cemetery, Adelaide, South Australia.)

  Marriage Notes:

1922 SA Marriage 293/360 ANDERSON Eric Duncan Roy DALLY Lilian May, Adelaide