No. 6802 L/Sgt. Carl Schaefer Kia 31.7.17. 16th Manchesters
No. 44112 Pte. Herman Schaefer Kia 21.3.18. 16th Manchesters
In a post under another Topic, it emerged that the above named soldiers of German descent were, through tragic circumstances, left as orphans. This meant that their aunt Emma, who lived in the Levenshulme district of Manchester, was their only surviving relative. Arising out of that Topic too, was that there existed in Manchester in 1914, a large German community, possibly it is thought, living in another district in Manchester called Hulme.
Now to continue. From further research it now appears that it was normal practice for a section of the "Manchester Germans" to visit relatives in Germany in the summer months. Thus, on the outbreak of war, those male "Manchester Germans" who happened to be in Germany or Austria at that time found themselves in the enemy's armies. The two Schaefer brothers were in England in 1914, joined the 16th Manchesters and were later killed in action. Alas, neither Carl nor his brother Herman have known graves, the death of Carl being commemorated on the panels of the Menin Gate Memorial, whilst Herman's name is engraved on the walls of the Pozieres Memorial. His name joins those of his comrades who also fell at Manchester Hill in 1918.
I see that Carl's name is recorded in the "Book of Honour" for the 16th Bn. under No.X Platoon, although he is given the initial of letter "G" in the list, his regimental number is correctly recorded as 6802.
Lastly, I am given to understand that Herman's company commander at Manchester Hill was Lt. J.Clarke, who apparently did not survive the war. There is much sadness here. PhilipG.
