Born in the parish of Enstone and Christened at St Kenelm, Church Enstone. In 1881 lived with parents at Louchs Farm Cottage, Enstone and was a Scholar. In 1891 lodged at Cottage, Newton Road, Great Barr (near brother William) and worked as a General Labourer. In 1901 lived in 2 rooms at Lower Street, Penryn, Cornwall and was a Captain in the Salvation Army.