Private Edward Callan was the first soldier from Waterloo County to die in World War One on February 20, 1915. He died at Armentieres, near the Belgium border. Pte. Callan was shot about a dozen hours after reaching the Rue De Bois trench. He was buried at the trench, but his grave location was lost by the army. He was 26 years of age at the time of his death. His name is on the Vimy Memorial in France.
Private Callan had served nine years in the British Royal Marines prior to his arrival in Canada in 1913. He had followed his older brothers, Thomas and Frederick Callan, to Canada and settled in Preston. Edward had worked as a carpenter with Water Department in Preston, prior to enlisting. He was single at the time of his death.
Copyright Status
Public domain: Copyright has expired according to Canadian law. No restrictions on use.
Reproductions
If you would like to obtain a digital or print copy of this image, please see KPL's Photographic Reproduction Policy at http://www.kpl.org/localhistory/photographs
Source Organization
Kitchener Public Library
Collection
Soldier Information Cards - World War One
Transcription
Callan, Edward
Private.
Enlisted very early in the war with 29th Highland Light Infantry Battalion of Galt.
His home was in Preston.
He was killed in action in 1915.
He enlisted with the 1st Division 1st Contingent in Sept, 1914.
His next of kin in Canada are his brothers, Thomas Callan and Frederick Callan, 504 Stone Rd., Galt.
Anglican.