Alexander Neilson Clark (1878-1940)
Land agent from Tanfield who served in 8th DLI awarded DSO
Alexander Neilson Clark, the son of Nathaniel and Jessie Mary Clark, was born on 3 March 1878 in Chester-le-Street, Durham. He had an older brother and lived in the Tanfield area most of his life. In 1901 he and his brother are described as ‘Student’ although he had already joined the 4th Volunteer Battalion Durham Light Infantry as a 2nd lieutenant. By 1911 he is described as a land agent, like his father and brother. He was later promoted to lieutenant, and in October 1914 was promoted to captain and transferred to the 8th Battalion.
Alexander landed in France in May 1915 and, the following year, was wounded in action and awarded the Distinguished Service Order (DSO). In 1917 he was twice Mentioned in Despatches and in November won the Military Cross (MC). After the war he returned to Tanfield Hall where he remained for many years. He died in Tanfield in 1940.
His award of the DSO was gazetted on 21 December 1916 and the citation reads:
“For conspicuous gallantry in action. Although twice wounded he continued to lead his company, displaying the greatest courage and determination. He has on many previous occasions done fine work.”
Civil Parish: Tanfield
Birth date: 3-Mar-1878
Death date: 19-Jun-1940
Armed force/civilian: Army
Residence: Foulbridge House, Urpeth, Durham (1881 Census)
Beamish Park, Urpeth, Durham (1901 Census)
Tanfield Hall, Tantobie, Durham (1911 Census & Newcastle upon Tyne, England, Electoral Registers, 1928-1933)
40 Tanfield, Durham (1939 Register)
St Margarets Cottage, Tanfield (England & Wales, National Probate Calendar (Index of Wills and Administrations), 1858-1966, 1973-1995)
Education: Bow School, Elvet, Durham
Employment: Land Agent (Auctioneer) (1911 Census)
Family: Father: Nathaniel Clark
Mother: Jessie Mary Clark (nee Neilson)
Brother: Nathaniel Clark
Military service:
4th Volunteer & 8th Battalions Durham Light Infantry
Captain
Medal(s): Distinguished Service Order
Military Cross
Mentioned in Despatches (2)
1914-1915 Star
British War Medal
Victory Medal
Gender: Male
Contributed by John Edwards
