SOLDIERS OF THE SOUTH SIMILKAMEEN
Researchers:
Jennifer Douglass &
Andy English
Thomas Cameron Knowles
Service No. 443849
Born: January 16, 1893, Govan, Lanarkshire, Scotland
Died: January 25, 1959, Princeton, BC1
Son of Grant & Martha (Cameron) Knowles2
Lieutenant, BC Regimental Depot
16th Reserve Battalion (serving with RAF)
1st Reserve Battalion
54th Battalion
Resting Place:
Hedley Cemetary, Hedley, BC3
Lt. Thomas Cameron Knowles (1893-1959)
Thomas was one of eight children born to Grant & Martha Knowles in Scotland. After his father passed, his Mother and three of his sibling immigrated to Canada in 19134. Thomas came to Canada in 1910 as did his brother Samuel. Thomas lists himself as a Driller bound for Hedly, BC but by 1915 he is an Engineers Helper and then a Steam Engineer in the Power Plant by 1935. In 1922 he marries Thomasina Boyd daughter of Robert & Elizabeth Boyd of Hedley and they settle into community life. A 1958 register shows Thomas now the Postmaster of Hedley.
Thomas serves with distinction during the war mainly with the 54th Battalion but transfering to the BC Regimental Depot, 1st Reserve Battalion and then the 16th. While serving with the 1st Reserve he is awarded the Military Medal for bravery in the field. He is transferred to the RAF and for a few years earns flight pay. He returns to Canada and Hedley in 1919.
Thomas remained in Hedley until his death in 1959. Thomasina survived him until 1991. They are both buried in the Hedley Cemetery.
South Similkameen Branch 192
Military Medal
Awarded to Warrant Officers, non-commissioned officers and men for individual or associated acts of bravery on the recommendation of a Commander-in-Chief in the field.
