This week, we are excited and privileged to present an extremely special object, which is very closely linked to our recent 77 Fallen Project.
This beautiful solid gold locket was generously donated to the University by Audrey Bullough, the relative of one of our 77 fallen alumni, Frederick William Bullough. Audrey, who is the wife of the late Eric Bullough and Frederick’s daughter-in-law, attended our special Commemoration Service in June, to remember the 77 fallen alumni. During her visit to Chester, Audrey generously donated this beautiful piece of jewellery to the University.
The locket was originally gifted by Frederick to his wife Ada. It is adorned with rubies, symbolising love and good luck, and seed pearls, which are said to symbolise wisdom and protection. The locket also contains photos of Frederick’s wife, Ada, and their son, Eric too.
A considerable amount of research was compiled for Frederick as part of our World War One Centenary commemorations. Frederick was born in Westhoughton and after his father’s death in 1901, he lived with his widowed mother, five sisters and youngest brother. In 1904, Frederick began his Teacher Training course at the then Chester College, qualifying in 1907 and becoming an Assistant Teacher at Over Kellet Church of England School. In 1913, he became Headmaster.
On August 12, 1913, Frederick married Ada Walsh Greensmith. Their son, Eric Greensmith Bullough, was born on June 5, 1914. In his private life, Frederick adored dogs and had a Great Dane called Mac.
Frederick joined the Royal Garrison Artillery, 152nd Siege Battalion in May, 1916. While at war, he kept a diary and wrote many letters home. Frederick was tragically killed on November 8, 1917 by a German shell, while he slept in a splinter-proof shelter alongside his batman, Frank William Fisher.
After news of Frederick’s death reached his wife Ada, she departed from Liverpool Docks bound for Montreal, Canada, on August 15, 1921, with their seven year old son. Eventually they left Canada and settled in New Zealand, joining Ada’s brother Harold Greensmith.
We have this beautiful locket displayed in the Senior Common Room in Old College, on the Parkgate Road Campus, as part of our 77 Fallen pop-up exhibition for Annual Reunion 2018 and Heritage Open Days.
