3249 Private Robert Thomson
6th(Perthshire)Battalion(Territorial)
Black Watch(Royal Highlanders)
13th November 1916
Born at 08.45 on 23/04/1895 at Craigie, Clunie, Perthshire.
His parents were James Thomson (13/02/1861-1909 and Mary Robb (30/11/1852- 02/07/1928). They were married on 26/11/1880.
Robert had 3 brothers, James Alexander (1884-1953), John (born on 13/06/1886) and William ( born on 24/03/1889). He also had 3 sisters, Ann Robb (born in 1876), Marjory Edwards (11/09/1879- 1941) and Betsy McInnes (born on 04/03/1882).
In the 1901 (Scottish) census, the family were recorded as living at Gauldmyre, Kinloch & Lethendy, Perthshire. James was employed as a saw mill labourer.
In 1909 Roberts father died from phosphorous poisoning (from the heads of matches) and the family spilt up. Mary his mother went to live with his brother John in Cargill, East Perth. I have been unable to find Robert in the 1911(Scottish ) census,
though given his age at the time(15), he was most likely sent to live and work on a farm.
Robert enlisted in Blairgowrie. He was killed in action on 13/11/1916.
He was awarded the 1914-1918 British War and Allied Victory medals.
His mother was awarded a pension of 2/6 a week from 29/05/1917 on 25/04/1917.