I am out of the closet (or should that be the crypt?) as a self-proclaimed taphophile. Graveyards have long held a fascination for me and many hours over my fifty plus years have been spent in cemeteries both here in the United Kingdom and across Europe.

On occasion, on my forays into these tranquil spaces, a particular grave will pique my curiosity. This may be for a variety of reasons, an association with local history, an intriguing epitaph or a family connection.... it doesn't take much. The online availability of censuses, official registries and newspaper archives have in recent years made it possible to learn something more about the lives lived by those remembered only as fading names carved in stone. These resources provide an opportunity to put 'flesh on old bones' as the turn of phrase goes, hence the title of this blog 'Beyond the Grave'.

If anyone reading these posts has anything to add please feel free to contact me at adrianandrews@myyahoo.com.

Monday 15 June 2020

Major Pearson's Modified Webley Revolver



For our reunion visit, the staff of the Staffordshire Regiment Museum made available for our examination the modified Webley revolver that was carried (and used) by Major Pearson in the fighting in and around Caen in the summer of 1944. The weapon had been bequeathed by the Officer to the museum.

The routine cleaning of the gun and its holster would have been one of the duties undertaken by Percy Clews as Major Pearson's batman.

With the original holster

'You've got to ask yourself one question: 'Do I feel lucky?' Well, do you, punk?'

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