Alexander Masson (1887-1918)
Alexander James Masson was born on 23 March 1887 in Edinburgh, Scotland, to William Frederick Masson (bookkeeper) and Margaret Ross.
|
|
1891 census |
1901 census |
1911 census |
|
|
Edinburgh |
Edinburgh |
Edinburgh |
|
William |
30, Cashier |
- |
- |
|
Margaret |
30 |
40 |
50 |
|
Margaret |
8 |
18, Typist & shorthand writer |
28, Typist, Wine merchants & brewers |
|
Mary |
7 |
17, Drafter’s assistant |
27, Shop assistant, Drapers |
|
Ellen |
5 |
15, Drafter’s assistant |
25, Needlewoman, Drapers |
|
Alexander |
4 |
14, Scholar |
24, Law clerk |
|
Frederick |
1 |
11, Scholar |
- |
Alexander moved to Canada and worked for the Canadian Consolidated Rubber Company in Vancouver and the Victoria Transfer Company in Victoria.
Alexander enlisted very early in the war (September 1914). He had previously served with the 31st BC Horse regiment. Once he was overseas, he rose from private to lieutenant very quickly and had taken up signalling.
Photo: Daily Colonist (19 May 1918)
Alexander was killed on 23 March 1918 “by a German shell… right at the beginning of the big drive”. It was his 31st birthday.