EWART, Captain Alexander Telfer MC MM MiD
2nd & 15th Field Company Engineers AIF
by Robert Simpson
Alexander Telfer Ewart was born on 19th November 1887 in Newtown, Sydney, New South Wales; a son to John Ewart and Isabella McKenzie Garland. John and Isabella had been married in Scotland, but it is not known when. There are three Scottish records which show a John Ewart marrying an Isabella between 1879 and 1883, but for the wife, the middle and surnames are different. Alexander was one of twelve children to them. The first two were born in Scotland and then the family migrated to Australia on the Hohenstaufen, in steerage, in 1887, although they said their nationality was English, not Scottish. They arrived in Melbourne, in August 1887, but went onto Sydney on the same ship. Soon after their arrival, Alexander was born. They settled in the Mosman area of Sydney and then moved around a little bit to St. Peters and Marrickville, before settling back in Mosman. The Evening News of 23rd October 1889 had an article on the Great Baby Show that had opened at Darlinghurst Hall on that day at 3pm. The article discussed that the promotors had made “every provision for the comfort of the infants” and in the list of entries, under Class H- Babies from 12 to 24 months was Alexander Telfer Ewart, aged 23 months.
Alexander was living at 8 Dundas Place in Albert Park, Melbourne in the 1914 electoral roll and he was a plumber.
On 20th August 1914, Alexander enlisted as Sapper 45 in the 2nd Field Engineers in Melbourne. He stated he was born in the parish of Albert Park, near Melbourne and was a 26-year-old British Subject. His trade was plumber and gasfitter and he had been apprenticed to R H Ashford. He was not married and his next of kin was his father at Springburn, Gordon Street Mosman. His description was age 26 years and 4 months, height 5 feet 9½ inches, weight 11 stone 7 pounds, chest measurement 34½ to 37 inches, of dark complexion with brown eyes and dark brown hair. His Religious Denomination was Methodist. He had no vaccine or other distinguishing marks. The Medical Officer considered him fit for service on 18th August. Alexander was appointed to Field Company AIEF by a Captain in the RE on 24th August 1914 in Melbourne.
On 17th October 1914, he married Mabel Mary Henderson Newson in Victoria. He had to, they had a child, Joyce Ewart, in 1913. In the 1914 electoral roll, Mabel had been living at 386 Ferrars Street, Albert Park, and was a tie machinist. In the 1915 roll, she is at the same address, with the surname of Ewart, but doing home duties. Alexander was listed at 8 Dundas Place and had his same occupation. The same addresses for both are also recorded for the 1917 roll. Finally, in the 1919 electoral roll, Alexander is listed as living at 386 Ferrars Street, with Mary. The property recently sold for $1 720 000 on 25 Jul 2015.
Also on Saturday 17th October 1914 in the Record of Emerald Hill, Victoria on page 3 was a write up on “LOCAL VOLUNTEERS ENTERTAINED BY MAYOR AND COUNCILLORS. In the local Town Hall on Monday night over 50 members of the Australian Imperial Expeditionary Forces were entertained at a conversazione by the Mayor, councillors, and citizens of South Melbourne. All the volunteers present were residents of the city. The seating accommodation of the hall was taxed to its utmost. Around the walls were displayed the Union Jack and Australian flag, entwined with those of the allied nations. Proceedings were opened by the company rising and singing the National Anthem, after which the Mayor (Cr. J. Morris) addressed the guests. He said that South Melbourne was proud that so many of its young men had volunteered to fight for the Empire. (Applause.) He wished them God speed and a safe and pleasant voyage. When at the front he hoped they would always remember that they were Australians, and that the eyes of the world were upon them. (Cheers.) Remembering that, he was sure they would conduct themselves in a manner worthy of the great nation they were representing. (Applause.) Those they were leaving be-hind would follow their movements closely during the progress of the war, and many prayers would be offered for them. No doubt they had received a lot of advice, but he would, in conclusion, urge them to keep away from strong drink and to refrain from any riotous behaviour, or any conduct unworthy of Australians. (Loud applause.) Mr. G. A. Elmslie, M.L.A., said that since the outbreak of the war many patriotic addresses had been delivered in South Melbourne, but never in that hall had there been a more profound sense of deep feeling than was being displayed that night. (Hear, hear.) They, as citizens, considered themselves privileged to take part, with hearts full of pride, intermixed with sorrow, but with a grim determination and full confidence in the outcome. (Applause.) They were justly proud of those who were going away to assist in the making of a new world’s history; in bringing into being a newer and higher civilisation. (Cheers.) He knew they would do their duty and remember Australia. England had not entered the fight for self-glorification, but to keep her pledge of honor. (Applause.) While those members of the Expeditionary Forces were fighting for the honor of the Empire. The people of Australia would do their best to protect their parents, their wives, and their children, and see that they did not want. (Cheers.) He was not going to wish them “goodbye,” but wished them “au revoir,” and hoped to be present when duty done, they were welcomed home again. (Cheers.) Each of the soldier guests was presented with a morocco bound pocket book on which was inscribed, “Presented by the South Melbourne City Council to local members of the A.I.E.F. 12/10/14.” One of the soldiers there was listed under Field Engineers – Sapper A T Ewart.”
Alexander embarked with the 2nd Field Company Engineers on 21st October 1914 at Melbourne on HMAT Orvieto A3 as Lance Corporal 45. He had been appointed Lance Corporal Pioneer on 1st October 1914. The nominal roll lists him as a 26 year old single plumber of Gordon Street Mosman, with his next of kin as John Ewart of the same address. His religion was Methodist and he joined on 20th August 1914. Alexander was receiving a pay of 5 shillings a day and after embarking was keeping 2 shillings, allotting 3 shillings to stay in Australia and had another shilling deferred for completion of service. Another entry in his service record says he was promoted to 2nd Corporal on 21st December 1914.
The Methodist of Sydney on Saturday 6th February 1915 in page 2, and also on 17th April 1915, had an article title “OUR ROLL OF HONOUR
FOR GOD FOR KING and FOR COUNTRY
Methodists who have enlisted for the Aust. Expeditionary Forces
‘THE time has come when we must do everything we can to assist those who are so nobly fighting our battles, because, lads, those men who are there are not fighting, merely to prevent an invasion of Great Britain, or to restore independence to brave little Belgium, or to curb the military power of Germany, but as sure as we stand here, they are fighting for your liberty, and for the rights of us in Australia, who have liberty and freedom of Government, to continue to enjoy those blessings and privileges. By the time you are men you will look back, and see that now is your opportunity for offering your life in a cause so noble, great and just. We have to realise that this is no skirmish, no South African war, but a struggle to the death-grip, and the greatest struggle of any age.
MOSMAN. Corporal A. T. Ewart (In Egypt). Corporal C. B. Ewart (In New Guinea). Lance-Corporal J. W. Axtens (In New Guinea). Private A. Treloar (In New Guinea). Corporal H. B. Fletcher Despatch-Rider A. B. Pursell (In England). Sapper A. McLintock. Private O. J. Carr. Joseph Edward Nunns (In Egypt). Frank V. Thompson, Private. Harold Davey (In New Britain). William Ellis Davey (In New Britain). William Hammond (In Rabaul). William H. C. Rose, Senior Corporal (In Egypt).”
Another article in the same newspaper on 17th April 1915, under the same headings, had under Circuit Lists – Mosman – Corporal A. T. Ewart (In Egypt) and Corporal C. B. Ewart (Returned from New Guinea)
He proceeded to join the MEF at Alexandria on 5th April 1915.
After landing on Gallipoli on the 25th April, he was promoted to Corporal on the 25th May 1915. On 12th September 1915, he was transferred to a hospital ship from 1st Australian Casualty Clearing Station with influenza. He was admitted to a hospital at Heliopolis with influenza on 19th September. On 30th October 1915, he was admitted to Helouan Convalescent Hospital with eye trouble. He was discharged to Zeitoun as fit for A Service on 2nd November 1915. On 13th November, he proceeded to join his unit from Zeitoun, re-joining them on 7th December at Anzac. On 27th December 1915, he disembarked from HT Caledonia at Alexandria.
In the Methodist of Sydney on Saturday 16th October 1915, in page 7 was: “The school hall of the Methodist Church, Mosman, was filled on Saturday night, when honour was done to several young men who have enlisted. Presentations were made to the following”:— which included Alexander T. Ewart. It was part of a larger article listing those in different parishes that had enlisted.
The Sun of Sydney on Tuesday 19th October 1915 in page 3 had: ‘APPEAL FROM THE TRENCHES Sergeant Alex. T. Ewart, writing to his parents at Mosman from the trenches: — “I often wonder if all the able-bodied young chaps at home know what we are going through. If they saw us, I don’t think they would hesitate, but would come along and say, ‘Well you have done your bit; have a spell for a while. I guess we have earned it too, but the boys never grumble, and take things as a matter of course.”’
Sir Ian Hamilton GCB mentioned Alexander in a despatch, recorded on 11th December 1915.
On 28th January 1916, he was Mentioned in Despatches in the London Gazette on page 1207, position 49, as Corporal 45 Alexander Telfer Ewart in the 15th Field Company Australian Engineers. Base Records sent his father a letter on 16th April 1916, advising him of an “extract from Supplement No. 29455 to the “London Gazette” of 28th. January, 1916, relating to the conspicuous services rendered by No. 45, Corporal A. T. Ewart, 2nd. Field Company Engineers.” Mentioned in Despatches. “I have the honor to submit herewith the name of No. 45, Corporal A. T. Ewart, whose services I wish to bring to your Lordship’s notice in connection with the operations described in my Despatch of 11th. December, 1915.”
Alexander was transferred from 2nd Field Company to 5th Division on 30th March 1916 at Serapeum, after being taken on strength of 15th Field Company the day before. At Ferry Post on 12th March, he was promoted to Company Sergeant Major. He was graded Warrant Officer Class II on 19th April 1916 in Egypt by Headquarters 5th Australian Division. They then embarked on Kinsfaun Castle with the BEF from Alexandria on 18th June 1916, disembarking at Marseilles on the 29th.
On 10th June 1916, Corporal 45 Alexander Telfer Ewart of 2nd Field Company Divisional Engineers was “Recommended by Lt.Col.Martyn for conspicuous bravery during the night of the attack on Lone Pine in that he kept his party at work during the whole night under heavy fire and that by morning communication was established between captured trench and old trench opposite Lone Pine. Mentioned in Despatch from Sir Ian Hamilton, G.C.S. 29255 of 28th.January 1916. Extract from LONDON GAZETTE.” for a Military Medal by C.R.E. of the 1st Australian Division.
In France, on 27th October 1916, he was awarded a Military Medal. Corporal A T Ewart was awarded a Military Medal and it was recorded in the London Gazette of 27th October 1916 on page 10487, position 15.
Company Sergeant Major (Warrant Officer) 45 Alexander Telfer Ewart of the 15th Field Company Australian Engineers (part of the 5th Australian Division, 2nd ANZAC Corps) was recommended for a Mention in Despatches on 12th October 1916. The action read “W.O.Ewart enlisted on 18.8.14 in the 2nd Field Co Engineers. He landed on Gallipoli on April 25th 1915 with his company and for two months performed very able work on the water supply in SHRAPNEL GULLY, he then took over tunnels in front of LONE PINE and on the night of the LONE PINE attack August 6th, was in charge of the digging of communications. This work was carried out with conspicuous gallantry and EWART was mentioned in despatches. On the night of August 20th, particularly, Ewart established a bomb proof observation post under heavy machine guns fire and a bombing attack. Subsequently Ewart carried out very able work for the evacuation. On arrival at TEL-EL-Kebir Ewart was put in charge of the installation of the whole of the water service of the camp, for which work he was spoken most highly of. On April 1916 W.O.Ewart was made C.S.M. of the 15th Field Co. and in that capacity his work has been of the highest order, throughout the training of the Company at FERRY POST, and the operations of the Company in FRANCE. His work has always been most consistently thorough and he has very materially assisted the operations throughout by the manner he has handled the provision of all engineer requirements at the Front Line, including preparations for the attack of 19th/20th July 1916.” It was signed by A B Carey CRE 5th Australian Division.
He was mentioned in Sir D Haig’s despatch of 13th November 1916, for distinguished gallant service and devotion to duty in the Field.
The Argus of Melbourne on Saturday 6th January 1917, in page 16, had the following entry under “MILITARY HONOURS. Information has been received by Mrs A T Ewart, of Albert Park, that her husband, Corporal A T Ewart (now warrant officer) has been awarded the Military Medal for conspicuous work in Gallipoli.”
The London Gazette of 4th January 1917 (volume 29890) on page 254, position 95, had an entry for 35145 (should be just 45) Company Sergeant Major Alexander Telfer Ewart of the 15th Field Company Australian Engineers.
Under the heading of Australians Honoured in the Sydney Morning Herald of Friday 12th January 1917, is an entry for “WARRANT OFFICER EWART. Warrant-officer A. T. Ewart, of the 1st Divisional Engineers, who was mentioned in Sir Ian Hamilton’s despatches, has been awarded the Military Medal for conspicuous work on Gallipoli. He is a son of Mr. J. Ewart, of Mosman, and served through the Gallipoli campaign, being present at the landing and the evacuation. Warrant-officer Ewart’s brother, who saw service at Rabaul, is at present in Egypt with the A.S.C.”
On 30th January 1917, Alexander was selected to attend course of training at English Training Centre Deganwy, leaving France on 3rd February from 15th Field Company. He was marched in for course of instruction in military engineering with view to subsequent appointment to commissioned rank on 10th February 1917, and was billeted from 10th to 23rd February 1917 with subsistence under an Army Order in England. Another entry said he was also billeted with subsistence at Deganwy from 24th February to 30th March 1917 under the same Army Order.
In the Gilgandra Weekly of NSW on Friday 16th March 1917 in page 14 was a copy of a letter about “THE LATE SAPPER GEORGE SMIRTHWAITE Mr. J. D. Smirthwaite is in receipt of the following letter from Q.M.S. A. T. Ewart, enclosed in which is a sketch of the grave of the late Sapper George Smirthwaite, killed in action. Dear Mr Smirthwaite,-Not knowing you personally, but having known your son since the first Division left Australia, and having fought side by side with him, I thought you would like to have a glimpse, as near as I am able to do it on paper, of his last resting place. In the Company your son was in there are several of the boys, and, as you will see they have shown their esteem of his comrade ship. It came as a terrible blow to all we boys, as your son was of the best-a real true and sincere pal; and they all wish me to convey to yon their deepest and heartfelt sympathies in your sad bereavement. Enclosed is the drawing of your son’s grave. Trusting that your future days will be full of sunshine and happiness. You have the knowledge that your son died doing his duty and doing it well.”
On 3rd May 1917, Base Records sent a letter (written on 25th April) to Mr J Ewart of Springburn Gordon Street, Mosman, Sydney, advising him that “I have much pleasure in forwarding hereunder copy of extract from Second Supplement No. 29794 to the London Gazette of 20th October 1916, relating to the conspicuous services rendered by No. 45, Company-Sergeant-Major A.T. Ewart, 15th Field Company Engineers.” “HIS MAJESTY THE KING has been graciously pleased to award the Military Medal for bravery in the Field to the undermentioned non-commissioned officer: – No. 45 Company-Sergeant-Major ALEXANDER TELFER EWART”.
At the Engineer Training Centre “Deganwy”, Cadet A Ewart of the Australian Engineers underwent a course of instruction in the following subjects (with results):- 1. Drill: good 2. Discipline: good 3. Musketry & Revolver practice: very good 4. Interior Economy and Military Law: very good 5. Mounted Duties: good 6. Survey: good 7. Earthworks, Revetment and Mining: very good 8. Spar & Trestle Bridging, Knotting and Lashing, Blocks and Tackles: very good 9. Design of Heavy Bridges and General theoretical knowledge: good 10. Demolitions and Hand: Grenades 11. Camping arrangements: good 12. Pontooning: very good 13. Tactics: good 14. Gas training: qualified It was signed by Colonel H B Jones Commandant Engineer Training Centre “Daganwy” at Llandudno Junction, North Wales on 18th May 1917.
CSM Alexander Ewart was appointed as 2nd Lieutenant and posted to Engineer Reinforcements in England on 5th May 1917. From Tickworth, he then proceeded overseas to France on 21st May, and was marched in to Reinforcements Camp at Havre on the 24th. He proceeded to join the 5th Division Engineers on 2nd June 1917. On the 3rd he was taken on strength from AGBD and was to be supernumerary to establishment. He was to be Lieutenant on 5th August 1917.
As recorded in his service record, 45 CSM Alexander Telfer Ewart MC MM of 15th Field Company Engineers (of 5th Division Engineers) was appointed as 2nd Lieutenant in the AIF on 5th May 1917 and then Lieutenant on 5th August 1917. On 29th May 1917, his next of kin received his Form of Warrant. His wife, Mrs M Ewart, was recorded as living at 386 Ferrars Street, Albert Park, Victoria on 4th December 1917 from a Certified Receipt. A copy of his service record also noted to advise her as well as his father, with her address as recorded before. A marriage certificate had been produced on 28th November 1917.
On 6th July 1917, Base Records sent Mr J Ewart of Springburn a letter relating to the conspicuous services rendered by (they typed 35 in error) 45 CSM Ewart which was promulgated in the Second Supplement No. 29890 to the London Gazette of 2nd January 1917. The despatch from General Sir Douglas Haig GCB, Commander in Chief of the British Armies in France had written “I have the honor to submit the name of the undermentioned Warrant Officer serving under my command, whose distinguished and gallant services, and devotion to duty, I consider deserving a special mention:- No. 35 Company Sergeant-Major ALEX TELFER EWART.”
A recommendation for a Military Cross for Lieutenant Alexander Telfer Ewart of 15th Field Coy. A.E. on 29th September 1917 read “This officer during the operations of the 25/26th. Sept. 1917 was entrusted with the special task of marking a track through POLYGON WOOD from our front line to the objective to be gained. This track when staked and taped was to be improved by Lieut. Pritchard. Lieut. Ewart, his Sgt. and Sappers carrying stakes and tapes moved out shortly after ZERO and followed the assaulting Infantry through to the first objective. Then they, when the barrage lifted carried on with their (stakes and tapes – crossed out) task (in handwriting) and located the tracks beyond, (and through a temporary disorganisation of the Infantry took place owing to an adjustment of – crossed out also) of our right flank he and his men actually passed through the point where the Infantry had reached and staked the track to the final objective. This done he returned with his party and reporting to O.C. RED LINE he remained in the RED Line assisting the infantry to consolidate. His courage and tenacity in carrying forward the work and following up the barrage though there was a temporary disorganization was of the highest order, and he has followed up this work by leading his party out in daylight on the 25th. 27th. and under heavy Machine Gun from which he sustained casualties he marked out another track on the RED line. On the night of the 28th. he led out parties again and wired the front of the RED Line trench. His coolness, his work and his devotion to duty calls forth for recognition.”
On 1st October 1917, he was detached for duty to 23 Stationary Hospital, re-joining the 15th Field Co. on the 12th. He was wounded in action on 19th October 1917, but remained at duty until he was evacuated on the 27th to the 3rd Australian Field Ambulance with periostitis of the right fibia following a slight wound. He was then transferred to the 3rd Canadian Casualty Clearing Station with effects of wound and was sent on to 15 Ambulance Train, before arriving at Etaples on the 28th. On 31st October 1917, he was discharged to duty, marched into the AGB Depot on 2nd November and marched out to re-join unit on the 4th. He re-joined the 15th Field Company on 7th November 1917 in the Field. Base Records sent MR J Ewart of Springburn a letter on 20th November 1917, saying “I beg to advise you that Lieutenant A. T. Ewart, has been reported wounded slightly and remaining at duty. His postal address was 1st Field Company Engineers (late 2nd), Australian Imperial Force, Abroad.
The Sydney Morning Herald of Friday 14th December 1917, on page 8 had under “OTHER STATES. The following are the names of New South Wales men who enlisted in other States and whose names appear in the 369th list – WOUNDED Victoria -Lieut Alexander Telfer Ewart, Mosman (and rem on duty).” It was also recorded in the Weekly Times in Melbourne, on Saturday 22nd December 1917 in page 38; “Roll of Honor, Victorian List, Wounded Lieut. A. T. Ewart, Mosman N.S.W. (and rem. At duty)”.
He was granted leave to the UK on 23rd December 1917, returning on 8th January 1918.
On 28th December 1917, the London Gazette had an entry for Lieutenant Ewart for a Mention in Despatches on page 13565, position 44. He was mentioned in Sir Douglas Haig’s despatch of 7th November 1917, for “Distinguished & Gallant Services from 26.2.17 to 20.9.17”.
The Methodist newspaper in Sydney on Saturday 5th January 1918, in page 7 had an article: “Lieut. A. T. Ewart, of the Field Engineers, third son of Mr. John Ewart, builder, of Mosman, has been awarded the Military Cross for bravery on the battlefield. As a private he was at the original landing at Gallipoli, and has been thrice wounded. He was mentioned in despatches both by General Sir Ian Hamilton and General Sir Douglas Haig. His brother is also at the front in France.” The Sydney Morning Herald of 1st January also had the same article under the heading “AUSTRALIANS HONOURED.”
In the Sydney Mail of Wednesday 9th January 1918 in page 34 was an article and pictures of “The Ewarts of Mosman, N.S.W. They are sons of Mr. John Ewart, builder, of Gordon-street, Mosman. Lieut. Ewart, who was awarded the Military Cross for bravery in the field, was at the original landing in Gallipoli and also at the evacuation. He has been twice wounded (Lone Pine and Bullecourt) and three times mentioned in despatches. Pte, C. B. Ewart served also in New Guinea.
LIEUT. A. T. EWART, M.C. Aged 28. — In France.
PTE. C. B. EWART, Aged 25 — In France.
TPR. JAS. W. G. EWART, Aged 19 — In Palestine”
On 24th January 1918, he was detached for duty to Camouflage Depot from 15th Field Co., and re-joined the unit on the 26th.
The award of the Military Cross for Lieutenant A T Ewart of the 15th Field Company Australian Engineers was recorded in the London Gazette on 3rd June 1918 on page 6473, position 34.
Lieutenant Alexander Telfer Ewart MM was recommended for a Military Cross by Lieutenant-Colonel V A H Sturdee, CRE 5th Australian Military Division on 8th March 1918, for the following action. “From 10th November 1917 to 29th November 1917 this Officer had charge of the construction of defence lines East of WYTCHAETE from HOLLEBEKE South to the ROOZEBEEK. This entailed the siting, construction and wiring of Strong Points in the Outpost, FRONT, SUPPORT and RESERVE Lines. Lieut. EWART marked out all new strong points, organised the large working parties which this work necessitated and arranged the supply of material in a manner which required a great amount of forethought and care. The splendid example set by him in coolness under heavy machine gun fire and keenness and enthusiasm for his work were the means of the Defence lines being brought into existence in the shortest possible time. Lieut. EWART has previously done good work, particularly at POLYGON WOOD, East of YPRES on 26th September 1917 and again during the middle of October 1917 at BROODSEINDE RIDGE. His consistently good work, energy and devotion to duty under all circumstances have been marked throughout his service.”
Base Records sent a letter to Alexander’s father at Springburn on 10th May 1918, saying “I have much pleasure in forwarding hereunder copy of extract from the Second Supplement, No. 30448, to the “London Gazette” dated 25th December 1917, relating to the conspicuous services rendered by the undermentioned member of the Australian Imperial Force. MENTIONED IN DESPATCHES. The following is a continuation of Sir Douglas Haig’s Despatch of the 7th November, submitting names deserving special mention, published in a supplement to the “London Gazette” of Friday, 28th December, 1917:- Lieutenant A. T. EWART.” Mabel was also sent the same letter on the same day. On 10th June 1918, a letter was sent to Alexander, which read: “Dear Ewart, I am so pleased to see that your good and gallant service has been recognised by the award of the Military Cross, which you have so fully deserved and on which I send you my heartiest congratulations. With good wishes and many thanks for all your good work. Yours sincerely, (Signed) W. Birdwood.” Headquarters AIF BEF France.
In the Personal column, on page 6 of the Sydney Morning Herald of Friday 17th May 1918, was an entry: “Lieutenant Alexander Telper Ewart (Field Engineers), son of Mr. J. Ewart, of Springburn, Gordon-street, Mosman, who was recently awarded the Military Cross, was mentioned in Field-Marshal Haig’s despatch of November 7. On four previous occasions he was mentioned in despatches – three times by General Ian Hamilton and once by Field-Marshal Haig. One of his brothers is in Palestine, and another is in France.”
He was seconded for duty with Engineer Training Depot and proceeded to England on 2nd June 1918, leaving from Boulogne on the 3rd. He was marched in from Australian Headquarters in London on the 4th. On 31st October 1918, he want to Admin Headquarters for 1914 leave. He actually went on leave on 10th November 1918, returning on 15th January 1919 to Brightlingsea.
On 15th November 1918, Base Records sent a letter to J Ewart esquire of Springburn advising him that Alexander had been awarded the Military Cross for “conspicuous services rendered”. It was recorded in the 2nd Supplement No 30716 to the London Gazette of 3rd June 1918. Another letter was sent to his wife for the award on the same day.
The 1918 Birthday Honours were appointments by King George V to various orders and honours to reward and highlight good works by citizens of the British Empire. The appointments were made to celebrate the official birthday of The King, and were published in The London Gazette in early June 1918. The list included, under Military Cross (MC), Australian Imperial Force, Lieutenant Alexander Telfer Ewart MM Engineers.
On 16th January 1919, he was re-attached to permanent cadre of Engineer Training Depot on being taken on strength after 75 days leave in UK. From AIF Depot at Tidworth, Lieutenant Ewart assumed duties of Adjutant Engineer TD at Brightlingsea on 13th February 1919 and was to remain seconded. He was struck off strength from permanent cadre and relinquished his appointment on 31st May 1919, and was then on leave to 17th June 1919 where he was to report to No. 5 Group for duty. He marched in to 5 Group on 18th June, and out to No. 3 Group at Codford on 3rd July 1919. On 20th July 1919, he was struck off strength and returned to Australia on Valencia, from England. His wife was notified that he was returning to Australia on 6th August 1919. He arrived in Melbourne and disembarked on 11th September 1919.
In 1919, Alexander signed a form which stated he had seem the Defence cablegram and had settled all known accounts owed by him to anyone in the UK, Belgium or France, to his knowledge and if any were submitted to AIF Headquarters in England after he had left, they could be forwarded to A T Ewart, c/o Met Gas Coy, Flinders Street, Melbourne.
His appointment was terminated on 25th September 1919.
In 1920, an Alexander T Ewart, a 32 year old single male who listed his occupation as Clerk of Works, embarked on Commonwealth at Sydney, arriving at London on 21st March 1920. He listed his country of last residence as “Army AIF” and was intending to live in England. Then on 7th February 1928, a Mr A. I. Ewart embarked on the Hobsons Bay from London to Australia. He had ticket number 1777, which also had Master I. A. Ewart listed. They embarked in 3rd Class to land at Sydney. He was a traveller, aged 40 who was residing in England, but now was to reside in Australia. Master Ewart was aged 8 and they both lived at Mansions, Judd Street, Kings Cross NW in England. Also on that ship, with the next ticket number 1778, was Mrs M. E. Lindsley of the same address as the Ewarts; who was a 41 year old lady whose occupation was home duties. She also intended to live in Australia. No other records can be found for Master Ewart or Mrs Lindsay, so it is not known what happened to them after arriving in Australia, or if indeed this is the same Alexander.
Mabel signed for a Certificate for Mention in Despatches, London Gazette No. 30448, Certificate Number 1461 on 26th May 1920. On 27th August 1920, Mabel signed for 2 oak leaves for Alexander. Mabel signed for a Certificate for Mention in Despatches, London Gazette No. 29890 Certificate No. 3352 for Lieutenant A T Ewart MC MM of 15th F C Engineers on 21st June 1921. Base Records sent out a Certificate covering a Mention in Despatches to Alexander, c/o his wife at her usual address on 29th August 1923, also asking if the receipt attached could be signed and returned.
Alexander’s 1914-15 Star, British War and Victory medals were all issued, but returned on 10th May 1923. They were then all issued at the counter on 15th March 1928, which would fit in with the dates of him being in England and returning to Australia as above.
On 16th March 1925, John Ewart passed away at 4 Middle Head Road, Mossman. Isabella lived the rest of her life at that address, before passing away on 14th September 1957 in Chatswood.
In the 1926 electoral roll, Mary Ewart is listed as living at 333 Richardson Street Middle Park, doing home duties.
An Officer’s Record of Service written on 26th September 1927, showed Alexander on the Reserve of Officers. It gave his birth as September 1887 and his address as 333 Richardson Street, Middle Park. It showed he was appointed Lieutenant R of O 1.1.20, transferred to Retired List 1.10.25 and to retain rank, and then retired, with no date. His Form of Commission was sent to him on 26th September 1927. All his medals (1914-15 Star, British War and Victory medals) were issued to him at the counter on 15th March 1928.
Alexander and Mabel divorced in 1929. It was case number 46 in that year and the records are at VPRS 283/P0002 unit 135, item Case No. 1929/46 [Not yet digitised] in the Divorce Case Files at Melbourne for the Supreme Court of Victoria. The Age in Melbourne, on Saturday 7th September 1929, in page 24, had the following: “Mabel Mary Henderson Ewart, 36 years, of Richardson-street, Middle Park, sought divorce from Alexander Telfer Ewart, 40 years, formerly of Ferrars-street, Albert Park, on the ground of desertion. The marriage took place on 17th October, 1914, at Albert Park. A decree nisi was granted, with costs.”
The Sydney Morning Herald of Saturday 24th May 1930 on page 1 had the following:
“COMMONWEALTH OF AUSTRALIA
THE BANKRUPTCY ACT, 1924-1928.
In the Matter of ALEXANDER TELFER EWART and HECTOR MACDONALD EWART, trading as EWART BROTHERS. Grocers, 144 HAMPDEN-ROAD, ARTARMON.
NOTICE is hereby given that Alexander Telfer Ewart and Hector MacDonald Ewart have executed a Deed of Arrangement under Part 12 of the Commonwealth Bankruptcy Act, 1924-1928. All persons having claims against the said Alexander Telfer Ewart and Hector MacDonald Ewart are required to prove the same in the prescribed form forthwith. Any Creditor who fails to prove his claim will be excluded from all benefits under the Deed.
Dated this 24th day of May, 1930.”
By the 1930 electoral roll, Alexander was living by himself at 264 Katoomba Street Katoomba and was a commercial traveller. He moved about in the 1930’s, 1940’s and 1950’s; always living by himself. In 1937, he was at 18 Darby Road Randwick, a salesman; in 1943, at 12 Selma Street, a commercial traveller; in 1949, at 121 Young Road Lambton, a salesman; and in 1954, at 373 Newcastle Road Lambton, a salesman.
During WW2, Alexander joined the Army Citizen Military Forces as N74736. He stated his birthday as 19th November 1890 (decreased his age a few years), being born near Sydney NSW, and his next of kin was Isabella Ewart, his mother, of Middle Heads Rd, Mosman. His Mobilization Attestation Form was filled out on 10th June 1940. His unit was recorded as R.R.D. Alexander stated he was a salesman and also a widower (not true). He stated his previous active service as with the 2nd and 15th Field Company Engineers. His permanent address was 10 Beckett Street Newcastle. Methodist was still his religions denomination. He was passed fit for home service on 10th June 1940 at 1 Battalion Drill Hall at Park Road Paddington. The WW2 Nominal Roll shows he joined in Newcastle on 10th June 1940 and was discharged as a Lieutenant at the Reinforcements Depot on 29th March 1943. This is at odds with his service record, which stated he was appointed Lieutenant on 26th June 1940, was appointed temporary Captain on 11th August 1941 and that rank was confirmed on 28th March 1943. A typed Officer’s Record of Service also had after Lieutenant, R/O; previous military service from 1914 to 1919 and Regiment or Corps as R.A.E. (Fd). His MC and MM were also noted.
A record of his promotions was written as:- “To be 2nd Lieut 5.8.17 To be Lieut 5.8.17 To be Adjt 13.2.19 To be Lieut R/O 26.6.40 Mobilised for duty with 1 I.T. Bn 20.6.40 Appd to R.A.E. (Fd) To be Captain (temp) 11.8.41 To be Capt. 28.3.43 Placed on Retired List 29.3.43 Removed from RL 30.7.43”.
His service record stated he joined on 26th June 1940, from Reserve of Officers and was taken on strength of R R Battalion. He was granted two days sick leave from 15th July 1940. On 27th August 1940, he was taken on strength of Headquarters EC Training Depot and detailed to 1st Infantry Training Battalion. He returned to EC Engineer Training Depot on 20th February 1941. On 30th April 1941, he was detached as Conducting Officer, re-joining the unit on 8th May 1941. He was promoted to Temporary Captain on 11th August 1941. Then, he was detached to duty to Officer Commanding Trains in Sydney on 25th September 1941, re-joining his unit on 30th September 1941. He was with his unit on 2nd November 1941. He was marched out to G.D.D. NSW L of C Area on 20th February 1942. On 28th March 1943, he was to be a Captain and was placed on the Retired List from the Royal Australian Engineers.
Major W G Studdy DAAG, sent “Capt. A.T. Ewart MC. MM., C/- G.D.D. NSW L OF C AREA” a letter stating: “Subjoined extracts from LHQ memo 17787 of 30 Jan 43 relative to the termination of your service with the Australian Military Forces – The transfer of the abovenamed officer to the R.S.L. has been approved. He should report to the G.D.D. of your Command at an early date. As Engineer-in-Chief has no recommendation for the employment of Capt. Ewart, the full time duty of this officer is to be terminated by the date of 14 days of his reporting to your Command to which date may be added the period of any recreational leave to which he is entitled. Actin will then be taken to place him on the Retired List in the rank of Capt.”
Alexander was sent a letter from Major W Studdy DAAG(PS) HQ NSW L of C AREA on 2nd March 1943, addressed to “Capt. A. T. Ewart, M.C. M.M. 4 Middle head Road, Mosman.” It read: “N.7436 Lieut (T/Capt) A T. EWART, M.C. M.M. R.S.L. R.A.E. TNG CENTRE Reference our memo 29491 of 5 Feb 43 in which you were informed that approval had been given by LHQ for the termination of your services with the Australian Military Forces and your placement on the Retired List in the rank of Captain. 2. It is advised that recommendation has now been submitted to LHQ that on completion of all leave due, which expires on 27 Mar 1943, your services will be terminated and that you be placed in the Retired List in the rank of Captain to date 28 Mar 43. 3. For your information.” It was sent by registered post from Victoria Barracks in Paddington NSW.
A trial in the Newcastle Court in 1954 involved Alexander. As reported in the Newcastle Morning Herald and Miners’ Advocate of Friday 8th October 1954, James Henry Warren, a garage proprietor, was under three charges involved with buying and selling a car and buying petrol using false cheques. The article noted that “Alexander Telfer Ewart, sales manager for Klosters, said that 10 days after Warren paid the cheque as deposit it was returned by the bank marked “refer to drawer.” Warren had no authority to sell the car.” Klosters is a Ford dealership in Newcastle and has been open since 1934.
On 26th January 1954, Alexander (living at 373 Newcastle Road, Lambton) sent a letter to the Officer-In-Charge of War Medal Section at Victoria Barracks in Melbourne, stating: “Dear Sir, I am enclosing papers which I received from Sydney on my termination of service with 2nd A.I.F. as a training officer and would be obliged if you could forward any service medals I am entitled to at your earliest. Thanking you, Yours truly”.
In 1956, he married Hazel Avery. Nothing else in known about her, the marriage certificate would give more information.
Base Records sent the Deputy Commissioner, Repatriation Commission the requested documents for Lieutenant A T Ewart 15 FCE on 26th June 1958.
In 1963, they were both living at 42 Gillies Street in Kurri-Kurri. Alexander had no occupation and Hazel was doing home duties. By the 1968 electoral roll, they had moved to 382 Newcastle Road Lambton. They were both still there in the 1972 and 1977 rolls. In the last roll, there was also a Diane Rose Ewart living with them and she was a typist.
On 17th March 1967, Alexander wrote a letter (in very shaky handwriting), stating: – “Dear sir, In todays “Herald” you are asking for applications for Service Badges & medallions, with particulars of service. I left with the 1st A.I.F on the Orevito A3 & after training in Egypt embarked for the Gallipoli expedition, landing on the morning of the 25th April 1915 & was there until the evacuation. My regimental no. on joining up was 45 2nd F Coy Engineers on returning to Egypt I was transferred to the 15th F Coy Engineers & served with that company throughout France returning to Australia on 11-9-1919. During my service I was awarded The Military Cross The Military Medal & I was Mentioned in Despatches three times rose from the rank of Sapper to Capt and Adjutant. Excuse scrawl as I am getting shaky. Yours faithfully A T Ewart.” Under his name is A. T. EWART? The letter was received by Army Registry in Canberra on 20th March 1967 and then by Army Records on the 22nd.
Alexander died in 1979 in Lambton, New South Wales and was cremated at Beresfield NSW. There is a record on NAA for his death – “EWART Alexander Telfer – N74736 ACMF; Year of Death – 1979; Crematorium – Beresfield NSW”. It is open but not online. The Department of Repatriation Office of Australian War Graves wrote to Mrs H Ewart of 382 Newcastle Road Lambton NSW 2299 asking for a request for confirmation. “The services of this Office have been requested to commemorate the death of an ex-serviceman and the particulars at the left have been supplied. Would you please confirm that they are correct and return this form to the above address.” The form on the left had State NSW; File No M130041; Surname Ewart MC MM; given names Alexander Telfer; No N74736; Rank Lieutenant, Captain; Unit 15 Field Company RAE; Age 91; Date of Death 30.4.79; and nothing for place of death. Then it had her name and address, relationship wife 6.6.79, cremation – Beresfield, Badge ACMF. All were ticked in blue pencil, but Lieutenant and Field Company had a blue line through them.
After divorcing Alexander, Mabel married Walter Charles Benjamin Southwood (1893 to 1953) in 1930 in Victoria. They lived at 333 Richardson Street in Middle Park, Melbourne and Walter was a clerk. He started off as a railway employee and did not serve in WW1. Walter died in 1953. Mabel died in 1980 in Dandenong in Victoria. Nothing is known about Joyce.
With his brothers and sisters:-
John Alexander Ewart was born at St Rollux in Glasgow in 1884. In 1930, he was living at “Roxburgh”, Raglan Street, Mosman, and was a builder. He died in Mosman in 1961.
Archibald Ewart was born in in Glasgow on 11th November 1885. He enlisted in the Engineers Reinforcements on 2nd October 1917 as Private 83044. Archibald was a carpenter and builder and was married to Annie. Their address was the same as his older brother. He had no previous service and he joined in North Sydney. His rank was changed to Sapper on 5th October, but he was discharged as medically unfit on 30th October 1917. He died in Parramatta in 1961.
Carmi Burnett Ewart was born in 1890 in Mosman. The 1913 electoral roll has him living at 10 Gordon Street Middle Harbour, Mosman, with some of his family and he was a bricklayer. In WW1, he enlisted as Driver 6816 in the 6th Reinforcements of the 7th Army Service Corps on 11th March 1915. He was transferred to the 26th ASC on 1st March 1916 and to 2nd Anzac Headquarters on 16th April 1916. Carmi was discharged on 18th August 1919. In his records they have spelt his first name as Charles or Carini. He had previously enlisted in the AN&MEF on 1st August 1914 as Private 719 in F Company. He was promoted to Lance Corporal on 24th September 1914 and was discharged on 4th May 1915. Carmi was entitled to the standard trio of campaign medals. After the war, he was a factory worker, then a bricklayer. In 1958 he was living in his parent’s house. He passed away on 12th June 1971 in R.G.H. Concord.
Picture of Carmi and Alexander.
Janet G Ewart was born and died in 1891 in Marrickville.
Isabella Ewart was born in 1892 in St. Peters. She may not have married and may have died in 1943. Records need to be checked to confirm.
Agnes G Ewart was born and died in St. Peters in 1895.
Janet Gilchrist Ewart was born in Mosman in 1896. She married Samuel T Glissan in 1917 in Mosman. Janet died on 17th July 1992 and was cremated at Hogbin Drive Crematorium, Coffs Harbour.
James William Gladstone Ewart was born in 1898 in Mosman. He enlisted in WW1 as Trooper 3656 in the Australian Light Horse on 19th September 1917. He was a 19 year old carpenter, who had served a year with the 17th Battalion Infantry Militia. He embarked for Egypt on 16th November 1917 and joined the 1st Light Horse Regiment on 4th May 1918. He got malaria in June 1918. James returned to Australia on 13th March 1919. He was entitled to the British War and Victory medals. He married Thelma Winifred McQuoin in 1924 in Mosman. In 1932 they moved to Ingleburn and he was a farmer, staying there until after 1954. They then returned to Mosman, where he was a staff manager up until the 1980 electoral roll. He was still alive in 1987.
Ruth Foreman Ewart was born in 1900 in Mosman. She married Leslie George Lorking in 1924 in Mosman. Leslie enlisted on 1st February 1918 in Sydney as Private 84695 with 1st Pioneer Battalion Reinforcements. He attended NCO school in August 1918 and was promoted to Acting Corporal and then Sergeant. It appears he never went overseas. After the war, he was a company secretary. He died in 1965 in Mosman and Ruth Passed away in 1969 in Mosman.
Hector MacDonald Ewart was born on 21st September 1902 in Mosman. He served with the RAAF in WW2 as Leading Aircraftsman 65900. He joined on 10th June 1942 at Cremorne and was discharged on 21st February 1945 from 111 Flight Sector Headquarters. Nothing else is known about his service, as his records are not opened. Hector married Iris Mildred Double in 1924 in Mosman. In 1963 he was a traveller and in 1972 a representative. He died in 1978.
Gordon Ewart, their youngest child, was born in 1905 in Mosman. In the early 1930’s he was living with his mother at 4 Middle Road and was a clerk. He married Doreen Mildred Morris in 1932 in Mosman. They then moved to Melbourne, where he was a bank officer. He died in 1977.
Alexander’s medals are Military Cross, Military Medal, 1914-15 Star, British War Medal, Victory Medal with oak leaf, 1939-45 War Medal and Australian Service Medal.
He also had a set of miniatures.
His Gallipoli Medallion and his WW1 pay book.
