Pte. Leonard Langdale Preston of Manutuke, Gisborne served in the 14th platoon, D Company, 33rd Reinforcements, NZEF, from December 1917 - August 1919.
He kept a diary given to him at some point by a Nurse Green. In it he records his time in the NZEF from the voyage on the SS Athenic until his last day of service on the Western Front.
Len's experiences were luckily more a record of the mundane and exhausting, than the heroic, but he does record many tragic deaths. As descendants of Len, we can be very proud that he played his part, and be thankful that he had the good luck of being assigned elsewhere on the days and battles that took the lives of his comrades.
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| Grandfather Len Preston, left, with an unknown soldier from D Company. Taken in France, according to the inscription on reverse. Photo: Collection of Len Preston. |
About the diary
My grandfather's original diary is still intact, in the possession of our family. It was transcribed by Len's daughter, Margaret Deuchrass some years ago. The diary below is a digitised version of her earlier transcript. The diary was gifted to Len by a Nurse Green, thought to be a nurse he met on the ship or on one of his spells in hospital. However, no records of a nurse by that name have been found. Time differences occur on days where he is travelling across the dateline (eg. days are in New Zealand time). I have noticed a slight error or two in Len's dating, and therefore some records or events may not be exactly as they occurred. I have plotted a sketchy route taken by his battalion and marked locations using Google maps which can be viewed here.
See the index of names at the end of this post for a list of all the fellow soldiers, mostly from D company that he mentions in his diary. If you have a relative who is mentioned in Len's diary or are in the photos below, please leave a comment at the end of this post. If you would like copies, or want permission to publish, please include your name, email address and a contact number.
A bit about Len
Len was born in 1897, in Manutuke, Gisborne. He enlisted in Gisborne on 19 August 1917, at the age of twenty.
In 1917, Len was working on his parent's farm in Manutuke, which they leased off local Maori, producing maize and dairy. As the eldest, Len was often left to manage the farm while his father was away selling his farming inventions. By all accounts, Len and his family struggled to keep the farm afloat, so he would certainly have been worried about how they would manage without him. They were a very close family. He wrote to his mother and sister regularly, sending them postcards and reassuring letters. He also had a strong Presbyterian faith and especially enjoyed his bible study classes and singing in church services. 
Len's Military trainingLen joined the Canterbury and Otago 17th Reinforcements as a private and trained at Tauherinikau camp in Featherston. On 19 September 1917 in the 3rd battallion, 3rd NZ Rifle Brigade marched from Tauherinikau to Trentham Camp near Wellington. The following photos are of his time at the Featherston and Trentham military camps. They are from Len's personal collection of photos. Evidently it was hard yakka, but not without some camaraderie. 
Troops marching from Tauherinikau to Trentham on Sept 19, 1917. Photo: Len's collection.
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His mother caught a train to Wellington to see him off, but it was unfortunately delayed, and so she missed seeing his boat leaving.
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A postcard Rosina sent her son Len, after missing him. She wrote on the reverse, simply:
"Best wishes, To Len, from Mother". |
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| 33rds on the SS Athenic. Len, back row, third from left. Photo: Collection of Len Preston. |
Their ship then sailed via the Gulf stream, taking his turn to be on night watch or submarine guard. They arrived safely in Glasgow, Scotland, arriving on the evening of Sunday 24 February, 1918. They marched to Larkhill 26 February 1918. Conditions were very poor and food was scarce.
They marched to Brockton camp on 28 February 1918. The facilities here were better, but Len had caught dysentry and spent a few weeks in and out of hospital. Excused from full training and duties, Len did a lot of the camp's washing while he was recuperating.
On 24th April, Len took three days leave from Brockton camp to visit relatives on his mother's side (Bougens) in Wisbeck a Mrs Bowen and Rose Booth. He travelled via train via Liverpool Station, March, Peterborough, Rugby and Crewe. He returmed not feeling too well, putting it down to eating too much pork while on leave! His battalion Marched to Folkstone, 28 April, and arrived in Etaples, France 30 April 1918.
They marched to Brockton camp on 28 February 1918. The facilities here were better, but Len had caught dysentry and spent a few weeks in and out of hospital. Excused from full training and duties, Len did a lot of the camp's washing while he was recuperating.
On 24th April, Len took three days leave from Brockton camp to visit relatives on his mother's side (Bougens) in Wisbeck a Mrs Bowen and Rose Booth. He travelled via train via Liverpool Station, March, Peterborough, Rugby and Crewe. He returmed not feeling too well, putting it down to eating too much pork while on leave! His battalion Marched to Folkstone, 28 April, and arrived in Etaples, France 30 April 1918.
Len's company were amongst the British and NZ troops who took part in the final push to take the Western front. See http://www.nzhistory.net.nz/war/western-front-1918 for a detailed account of NZ's part in the end of WWI.
On 9 May 1918 Len joined his battalion and was posted to A Company, moving up the Purple line (front line). Inspected by Brigadeer General Stewart on 14 June and then addressed by Bill Massey and Joseph Ward on the 2 July. In the months that followed, Len's company saw the most action at Hebuterne, Rossignol Wood, Baupaume, La Signa Farm, Cambrai, Esnes and Les Quesnoy.
At Rossignal Wood he is called to give evidence at the 'Preetho incident',for which I have yet to find out more. I suspect this was a case of the allies being caught in their own crossfire. He was put on Lewis Gun training (where he spent his 21st birthday) and NCO training at Beauvois. This relieved him from the frontline and kept him out of the battles in which many of his friends were injured or killed.
Len's company was positioned near Bapaume, but off the frontline, and thereby missed the battle of Bapaume in which his cousin Tom was killed.
On 9 May 1918 Len joined his battalion and was posted to A Company, moving up the Purple line (front line). Inspected by Brigadeer General Stewart on 14 June and then addressed by Bill Massey and Joseph Ward on the 2 July. In the months that followed, Len's company saw the most action at Hebuterne, Rossignol Wood, Baupaume, La Signa Farm, Cambrai, Esnes and Les Quesnoy.
At Rossignal Wood he is called to give evidence at the 'Preetho incident',for which I have yet to find out more. I suspect this was a case of the allies being caught in their own crossfire. He was put on Lewis Gun training (where he spent his 21st birthday) and NCO training at Beauvois. This relieved him from the frontline and kept him out of the battles in which many of his friends were injured or killed.
Len's company was positioned near Bapaume, but off the frontline, and thereby missed the battle of Bapaume in which his cousin Tom was killed.
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Thomas Reginald Preston,
son of Tom and Edith Preston of Manutuke.
13th Reinforcements 2nd Battalion, F Company
Killed at Baupaume - Buried in Beaulencourt British Cemetery,
Ligny-Thilloy, Pas-de-Calais, France, Grave Reference: III. H. 17.
Photo: Auckland Museum archive
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According to his War record, Len was appointed Lance Corporal on 21 October 1918, but curiously, he makes no mention of this in his diary at the time. Len left the front line on 28 October for a month of training at Div NCO School at Beauvois, presumably this was mandatory training for Lance Corporals. He rather enjoyed the break,and some French hospitality.
On November 2nd, 1918, his batallion was instrumental in taking control of the town of Les Quesnoy from the Germans. The death of his old friend Charley Hill, also of Manutuke, at this battle, would have been another huge blow, and particularly sad as the war ended days later.
The war comes to an end on November 9 and he joins the celebrations in Namur, Belgium. Len and his company march to Belgium, from Beauvois through the Rhineland, which he notes, he and the troops are not pleased about. They joined more celebrations in Jeaumont, passed a Zeppellin ship in Mauberge, then marched to Jeumont, "there was plenty of beer here and the boys had a night out" before ending his diary on December 5th, the day he was paid.
Len collected and kept as souvenirs a number of French and German wartime postcards, presumably found on the battlefield, then bought or traded between local French and allied soldiers.
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| A selection of German and French wartime postcards brought back by Len |
Once back on British soil, Len spends a few months travelling and sightseeing, visiting numerous places in the UK including London, Edinburgh, and Dublin as well as Wooldale Hall the home of his Preston forefathers in Holmfirth, Yorkshire. He brought back a large collection of souvenir postcards of all the towns he visited.
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The Diary of Pte L.L. Preston (1897-1978)
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| Leonard Langdale Preston b.1897 No.65698, 14th Platoon. D Coy, (Otago and Canterbury) 33rd Reinforcements, N.Z.R (under Captain McKillop, 1075 men) |
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If anything happens to me I wish this book to be returned to my mother:
Mrs R. Preston, Manutuke, Gisborne, New Zealand.
Mrs R. Preston, Manutuke, Gisborne, New Zealand.
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Monday December 31st 1917, NZ Troop Ship, Number 99, SS Athenic
This day I embarked from New Zealand. Mother was in Wellington to see me off but somehow missed me. The Gisborne boys just caught the boat and came out in the launch at half past six and we steamed off at seven. The sea was fairly rough but I was not sick. We slept in hammocks and they were very comfortable. But the place that we slept was not fit to put a pig down. The smell was that bad.
I, Leonard Langdale hereby start this Diary presented to me by Nurse Green, and I trust by the grace of God that I be spared until I finish it.
Tuesday 1st January 1918 [SS Athenic, Day 2]
Today, I was feeling a little squallish, but not sick until I went down the ‘dungeon’.
Wednesday 2nd Jan
I woke up feeling ill and was ill the greater part of the day. We had lifeboat drill for the first time.
Thursday 3rd Jan
Today woke up good-o. Was put on fatigue, peeling spuds and was put down to go on the mat for being late on parade. Also broke open mother’s parcel.
Friday 4th Jan
The sea had a slight roll on. In the morning I done a loaf. In the afternoon we had rifle exercises.
Saturday 5th Jan
Today the sea had a big roll on. I was feeling a little squeamish. We sighted a big school of porpoises and also a flying fish.
Sunday 6th Jan
Today the sea was a little choppy but I was feeling very unwell. We had bath parade today and some of the boys washed Cunninghame down. Gun practice for first time.
Monday 7th Jan
Today it was our first Sunday on board. We had church in the morning and it was very enjoyable. A sing-song service was held in the evening, very good.
Tuesday 8th Jan
Today I awoke with the rain coming down on my bed and had to adjourn to the hole. We had physical drill in the morning and signalling in the afternoon. A school of black fish were sighted after dinner and we had Bible study circle in the evening.
Wednesday 9th Jan
Today the weather was misty and not very enjoyable. There was a lot of boxing going on in the morning. We had a Bible study Circle going in the evening and there was a great increase in numbers.
Thursday 10th Jan
Today I woke refreshed. The sea was calm. We had signalling and a lecture in the morning. The first of the boxing contests were held in the afternoon and greatly appreciated.
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| Boxing match on a NZ troop ship, SS Corinthic, Photo: nzetc.victoria.ac.nz |
Friday 11th Jan
Today is a beautiful day. We are well in the tropics and it is a little warm. We were to be vaccinated today but was put off. No bible study tonight.
Saturday 12th Jan
Today the sea was calm. There was no sight of any birds. We had a very good concert on the deck, which was much appreciated. We got orders today to go without boots or socks.
Sunday 13th Jan
Today the sea was very calm. We had a shower bath in the morning. In the afternoon we got the first of our pay at sea, one pound. The finals in the boxing tournament were run off this evening. Won by Evans, Smith ___ Bible study class this evening.
Monday 14th Jan
Today the sea was rather rough and I was feeling a little sick. Flying fish were rather numerous and spray was coming over the bow every now and again. We had a prayer circle this evening and also a sing-song service.
Tuesday 15th Jan
Today the sea subsided a little, but was not feeling too healthy. We were on guard today. The first I ever had the privilege. I was guarding the gun on stern and sunset was magnificent.
Wednesday 16th Jan
Today the sea was fair and I am recovering my voice. We came off guard this morning and got half a day off. We had musketry in the afternoon and some pillow fighting was held in the evening, also the usual Bible study.
Thursday 17th Jan
Today the sea was calm and the sky cloudy. We had physical drill and kit inspection in the morning and in the afternoon impromptu sports. Joe Perfect and I had several bouts. Tonight a concert was going and was favoured by a …
Friday 18th Jan
Today the sea was calm. We had physical drill in the morning and also a lecture. Nothing was doing in the afternoon. We had a very good Bible study circle in the evening.
Saturday 19th Jan
Today the sea was beautiful and calm also the day was superb. We had a haka for the first time and greatly enjoyed it. We sighted several whales today for the first time and it aroused great excitement. Also several porpoises near the ship. Bible study was held in the evening.
Sunday 20th Jan
Today was a very notable day. We sighted a whale this morning, sunning itself on top of the water. The sea was beautiful and calm and it was a beautiful day. We also sighted some porpoises very close to the boat. This evening we gazed upon a beautiful sunset before Bible class study.
Monday 21st Jan
Today was a day of all days. We sighted a whale in the morning and some porpoises. Today is Sunday on board and there was a service in the morning also a decision service in the evening. Which was a great success.
Tuesday 22nd Jan
Today was a very hot day. The sea was very calm. It is real tropical weather in fact to hot to live. We loafed about practically all day and had a lecture by one of the returned officers. We had Bible study in the evening.
Wednesday 23rd Jan
It was very hot today. We sighted land for the first time, Coco Island about 30 miles off. There was a special fight on between a Maori and Walsh[?] I favoured the Maori and he won. We had Bible Class tonight, it was very good.
Thursday 24th Jan
Today it was very hot and calm. It is far hotter this side of the equator than the other. There was a tug-of-war contest on this afternoon won by K Coy [Company]. We sighted some wood for the first time. Also a tremendous big shark about ten feet long. Sgt. Crosby lectures tonight.
Friday 25th Jan [Arrive Panama]
Today was a day of all days. About two o’clock in the morning the boys sighted a light off the mainland of North America, Mexico, which was plainly visible. This evening we are tied up at Panama.
Saturday 26th Jan
This evening I am tired, the excitement of the last two days has told its tale. Today we experienced that enjoyable trip through the Panama Canal. It was a glorious trip that anybody could envy. We coaled at Colon and then steamed out to the Atlantic 200 Tonnes in [?]1/2 hours.
Sunday 27th Jan
Today is Sunday and I have been very ill the last two days. I did not write my diary up last night thereby missing a day. The sea is much rougher in the Atlantic than the Pacific. We had a sing-song service tonight.
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| Troops in rough seas on the SS Corinthic Photo: nzetc.victoria.ac.nz |
Monday 28th Jan
Today was a very nice day and the sea was a little calmer. We passed some islands today. I think they were the West Indies, Jamaica, etc. We also sighted two sailing vessels and two steamers. We had rifle exercises this afternoon and Bible studies in the evening.
Tuesday 29th Jan
Today was very nice and the sea was calm. They altered the day’s syllabus. Also the mail closed. We passed several small islands during the day, the West Indies. One with a lighthouse on. Bible study was held this evening.
Wednesday 30th Jan
Today we are on guard again. I was on the gun for three shifts, so could not do anything else. We could see the outline of the coast of Mexico in the morning. A large amount of seaweed was seen to be floating about.
Thursday 31st Jan
This morning we came off guard, were off duty until two o’clock. And then we were paid another quid, previous to going ashore. No land could be sighted today. The weather was very wet in the afternoon. The parade was washed out.
Friday 1st February 1918
Today was very cold and misty and we sighted several vessels. In the afternoon the cold was intense. We had physical drill all day to keep us warm. We are anchored off Norfolk tonight. There is ice all…[illegible].
Saturday 2nd February [anchored off Norfolk, Virginia, USA]
Today we are still anchored in the stream off Norfolk. The day is bitterly cold and there is ice all around us. It was snowing today and we had a snowball fight. We were not allowed ashore and were very much disappointed. The first time I have seen snow.
Sunday 3rd February [landed Newport News]
Today we went ashore at Newport News The first time I set foot on American soil. We were not sure if we would go ashore or not, but got ashore alright. The day was miserable and there was a lot of mud about. We had a good time only things were pretty dear. The people are mostly of Irish descent.
Monday 4th February
Today we went ashore again from 9 o’clock until 11. We were entertained by the American people in the Presbyterian church. I enjoyed myself very much. We went to the pictures afterwards. The weather is very cold.
Tuesday 5th February
Today we are still tied up at pier at Newport News, completing the coaling, no leave was granted today. It has been the coldest day I have experienced. About 9 points above zero. Tonight we pulled away from the pier and may sell tonight. I am not sorry.
Wednesday 6th February
This morning left Newport News and Cam thought the ice good-oh. We came into warmer weather, thank goodness. We have an escort. We are on our way to New York.
Thursday 7th February [New York]
This morning we arrived in New York. We anchored in the mouth of the Hudson River, and stayed there all day. I wish I could have seen the Statue of Liberty. There was very little ice in the river. We were off to Coney Island.
Friday 8th February
This morning we were still off Coney Island. We heard that a troop ship had been sunk and 250 Americans were drowned. We departed about dinner-time and are now sailing with a large convoy.
Saturday 9th February
Tonight we are in a storm. I am not too well. We are on our way between America and England. We have about sixteen other boats with us. We sighted a cod fishing fleet today. The day has been pretty wild.
Sunday 10th February
Today I was on submarine guard. The day was very cold. We separated from the convoy about midday. We held a long service in number three hold. It was very impressive and I enjoyed it very much.
Monday 11th February [anchored off Halifax]
Tonight we are anchored in the Gulf of Halifax. We are a little way from the sight of the recent munitions ship explosion. There is desolation on all hands. Trees are uprooted and numbers of buildings are knocked down. There were about 1500 killed.
Tuesday 12th February
Today we are still anchored in the centre of the Gulf of Halifax. It is fairly cold, there is snow all around and the hills are covered with a stunted kind of fir.
Wednesday 13th February
This morning we left Halifax about 12 o’clock. We steamed past the sight of the recent munitions ship explosion. They found two men buried in some sugar. The King addressed Parliament. We are now on our way to the Old Country.
Thursday 14th February
Today we are still at sea. I am feeling very well.
Friday 15th February
Today we are still on our way to England. The sea is fairly rough. I have got a bad cold and a headache. I was on parade today.
Saturday 16th February
Today I was on submarine guard. The day was very cold. Last night we nearly got rammed by the Laplander. A windup meeting of Bible Class was held in the Sergeants’ Mess. I went to the Plymouth Brethren tonight.
Sunday 17th February
Today the sea was getting a little rough. I went to the United service in the morning and to the sing-song at night. Joe Perfect did a bit of hypnotism. He hypnotised George Liston.
Monday 18th February
Today the sea was very rough and increased in fury towards night. The chief steward reckoned it was the second-worst storm he had ever been in. We were all ordered down below in the afternoon. I am feeling all right.
Tuesday 19th February
Today the sea had subsided. I was on carpenter fatigue this morning placing the rafts in position and clearing away the wreckage of the hatch that was smashed.
Wednesday 20th February
Today the sea was still rough. We had gargle for the first time this afternoon. Measles has broken out on board. Bill Barber and G.G. [Evans?] were isolated.
Thursday 21st February
Today we are still sailing onward. I was on submarine guard again today. They put on an extra guard tonight. The sea is still rough. We are in the middle of the Gulf Stream.
Friday 22nd February
Today we are sailing on. The sea is still rough. About three o’clock we turned and retraced our course until well into the night.
Saturday 23rd February
This morning we resumed our usual course. We gained a day with the high current running. We are now 150 miles north of Ireland. I am on submarine guard tonight. Will reach port tomorrow.
Sunday 24th February [Scotland sighted, arrive Glasgow]
This morning I came off submarine duty very tired. We got safely through a very perilous night all right. Early in the morning we sighted the coasts of Scotland and Ireland. They look very much like New Zealand. We will arrive in Glasgow tonight.
England
Monday 25th February [Glasgow to Larkhill camp by train]
This morning we came from Ayr to Glasgow. We all saw the Clyde shipbuilding yards and they were marvellous. They do the job here all right. We disembarked about 3 o’clock, and left Glasgow in the train for the camp.
Tuesday 26th February [Larkhill Camp]
This morning about 5 o’clock we arrived at the Railway station and walked about two miles to Larkhill Camp. We were very tired when we arrived and did not get breakfast till late. There is not much tucker about.
Wednesday 27th February
This morning we were inspected by one of the ‘big-guns’. It is pretty cold. Called for volunteers for Rifle brigade and I stepped out, also several others. The canteen is not much good here. It is not up to Nth. Is. Camps.
Thursday 28th February [transfer from Larkhill to Brockton camp]
This morning we left Larkhill and arrived at the station at Amesbury railway station at 10am and travelled all day through Birmingham to Brocton, arrived there 7 o’clock. It looks a very nice place. Had a terrible attack of diarrhoea.
Friday 1st March 1918 [Brocton camp]
This morning we got up at 6 o’clock, parade quarter to 7. We were inspected by one of the big guns. Also medical exam and lecture tonight. Plenty of good food here.
Saturday 2nd March
Today is very cold. The military band gave us a few items this afternoon. We also had a few kicks of football. Also saw Frank Daulton and Arnold Hay today. Brocton Camp is a better place than Larkhill.
Sunday 3rd March
Today is Sunday, we are still under isolation. Darkie Hawkins went to the hospital tonight with measles. It is pretty monotonous here, we are not allowed anywhere, not even to church. We went for a walk down the road this morning.
Monday 4th March - dysentry
This morning I paraded sick. I had a slight touch of dysentery and they gave me some tonic. Also got the excused duty. It will do me.
Tuesday 5th March
This morning we marched down to Bousley to get washed. It was a fair walk there and back about 8 miles, and we got pretty tired. This afternoon we had musketry and it was not too good.
Wednesday 6th March
Today we started a drill for the first time in earnest. It was very cold. There was a cold wind blowing. My feet are pretty sore tonight.
Thursday 7th March
Today I was on drill again. It was still very cold. The drill here is pretty stiff, but the cold is worse than the drill.
Friday 8th March
Today I paraded sick and was ordered to go to isolation. I think I have got influenza, I do not feel too good, but feel a little better tonight.
Saturday 9th March
Today I am still under observation. My temperature went down this morning, but is up a little tonight. Some little pimples are on my right arm.
Sunday 10th March [Temporary hospital, Brockton Camp]
Today is Sunday. I am in a temporary hospital in one of the huts. I am feeling all right tonight and expect to get up tomorrow. It is some sent home on here.
Monday 11th March
Today I was shifted out of the observation hut into the convalescence hut. I am getting all right now. Had a visit from Charlie Clearwater tonight.
Tuesday 12th March
Am still in the hospital.
Wednesday 13th March
Today I came out of observation. Am feeling all right. Received a letter from Gladys. [Len’s sister]
Thursday 14th March
Today I was on excused duty. Did a lot of washing. I am feeling all right.
Friday 15th March
Today I was still under E.D. Done a little more washing. Am going to get paid tonight.
Saturday 16th March
Today is my last day on E.D. We handed in our rifles this morning. This afternoon we had a football match, C Coy (Company) beat B by about 18 to 3.
Sunday 17th March
Today we had a church parade out in the open. We are still isolated. One of our chaps died of CLM (hookworm). Also several got caught down at Stafford.
Monday 18th March
Today was the first day I put out in at drill. I am feeling a little tired tonight, but will be all right in the morning. I saw Noel Catton while coming from the miniature range. Another of our chaps died of CLM.
Tuesday 19th March
Today it was raining like mad. We did a bit of a drill in it and got wet. Charlie Clearwater came round to see me.
Wednesday 20th March
Today is the same old game. I broke camp in the evening and went over to say goodbye to Charlie Clearwater. They were going to France.
Thursday 21st March
Today we had the same old game. Russ and I went down the road in the evening for a walk.
Friday 22nd March
Today we had the usual routine and we had a good dose of musketry in the afternoon. I saw Noel Catton this afternoon and he said see me tonight.
Saturday 23rd March
This evening I went over to the Canteen and had a game of billiards with Noel Catton.
Sunday 24th March
Today is Sunday. I wrote a lot of letters. I have got a very bad cough. We went over to the Warsale GM [?] hut tonight.
Thursday 28th March
Today we got inoculated again in the left arm. I have still got a cold. The 34th are supposed to arrive tonight.
Friday 29th March
Today we were paraded about all day as a guard of honour to the 34ths. They arrived about 4 o’clock and I saw old Ronald and Torpedo George. [?]
Saturday 30th March
We were in the hut all day today. It was raining like mad.
Sunday 31st March [Stafford]
Today we went up to Stafford. Had a real good time. Went up to see a castle, which was very good.
Monday 22nd April 1918 [London on Draft Leave]
Left Brockton Camp at 6am on Draft Leave. Arrived at Euston railway station about half past eleven. Had a good dinner and a look around in the afternoon.
Tuesday 23rd April
Took a tour around the sights of London with a Cook’s guide and quite enjoyed myself. Had dinner at the Australian Club, went to the London Opera House.
Wednesday 24th April [Wisbech visiting relatives]
Got up 6 o’clock and caught the tube to Liverpool Station. Went out to Wisbeck to Mrs Bowen’s place. [Mother’s family] Took a walk around Wisbeck with Rose Booth. It is a nice little place.
Thursday 25th April
Went out to Terencedale [Terrington St Clements?] to see Mrs Booth, Auntie Polly, and saw my Great-grandmother’s grave. Also an old cathedral built by the Romans.
Friday 26th April
On my way back to Brocton, will reach there about half past ten. Came by way of March, Peterborough, Rugby and Crewe.
Saturday 27th April
Kicked around camp, was not feeling too well. Ate too much pork while on Draft Leave.
Sunday 28th April
Tonight we have left Brocton Camp for France, amidst great enthusiasm. We were kicked around all day but have got away at last.
France
Monday 29th April [left Folkestone, England, arrived Etaples, France]
Today we have been resting at Folkestone and left about two o’clock for Boulogne. We arrived there about 4 o’clock. Got on an old train and went into Etaples. I was not much good in the dark.
Tuesday 30th April [Etaples]
Today we have been resting all day. At Etaples I went down to the town at night and had a good look around. It is a very dirty show and filth, slush and water is all about the place.
Wednesday 1st May 1918
Today we are getting ready to move on again.
Thursday 2nd May
Thursday night we left Etaples travelling on the train till four in the morning and then two hours sleep. Moved off again half past six, marched about twelve miles, had a little spell, came on two miles. First heard shellfire. Got into a little village and did not know where we were. Wandered around till four in the morning trying to find headquarters.
Saturday 4th May
Am sitting in the bivvy having a spell. This is a cow.
Friday 10th May
Am on guard in an advance post.
...
Monday 20th May
Am in the supports. Doing fairly well.
Tuesday 21st May
First heard about Andy Johnson, got both eyes out. Poor Andy, I feel his great loss deeply. It is sheer hard luck.
Thursday 30th May [Lailly (Lille)]
Am in reserve in Lailly having a good time, plenty to eat and not much to do. Lailly is all blown to pieces.
Wednesday 5th June 1918
Today we got up at half past 5, done about five hours' solid drill in the morning and this afternoon we were all packing up.
Friday 14th June
We are camped in a wood alongside of ? We have been having a pretty good time. We were inspected by Brigadier General Stewart this morning. We will very likely be going up to the Purple line tonight. Les Barber and I have been sleeping under some bushes. It is all right as the weather is very fine.
Wednesday 19th June
Tonight I am sitting in my bivvy to the left of Lailly. This evening is perfect. It rained very hard last night.
Tuesday 2nd July 1918
Today we are preparing to go up to the Front Line. We were inspected by Bill Massey and Joey Ward yesterday. They got a pretty fair hearing. The weather is still good. A lot of the boys have been affected by a sort of influenza lately. It only lasts for a couple of days.
Thursday 4th July
Today we are in a nameless trench east of Hebuterne. It is not a bad trench. Pretty quiet. I was on a covering party last night.
Monday 8th July
Am lying in my bivvy east of Hebuterne. Last night I was out wiring when a terrible lot of huns started squealing.
Thursday 18th July
I am now at Lewis Gun School, and will no doubt be here for ten days. The Germans started their second offensive yesterday. Our boys took the ridge left of Hebuterne. Took 39 prisoners and killed 36 and captured 5 machine guns and two trench mortars. I posted some fancy cards back home.
Tuesday 23rd July [Len's Birthday]
This is my 21st Birthday. We have been on the Lewis gun all day. It has been raining in the afternoon.
Tuesday 6th August 1918
Today we were on wiring up at Rossignal Wood. It is the place where our boys had the scrap. It is all blown to hell.
...
Monday 12th August
Today I went over to see Tommy [Len’s cousin] we had a good long yarn together about old times.
Tuesday 13th August
Today I went down to Rosingue [Rossignal] Farm. As chief witness to Preetho accident. It was a beggar of a job hanging around the Orderly Room.
Wednesday 14th August
I have been down to Rosingue [Rossignal] Farm today. Down to our transport lines. To get my boots fixed up and a new pair of trousers. I had a bath down there.
Friday 16th August
This afternoon I came home from fatigue, we were making dugouts when two parcels were waiting for me. One tin of lollies from Mrs Winters and a cake from home.
Saturday 17th August
Last night I was on gas guard. This morning I had to get up and go down the range and try the Lewis Gun. They were going to put me on fatigue this afternoon but I got out of it.
Wednesday 21st August
This morning at about three o’clock we hopped the bags. It was a great experience. We all got through Jerry’s barrage all right, but just after that the officer got shot through the ankle. We bagged a lot of huns.
Thursday 22nd August
I am sitting in a shell hole. Where our objective is [deleted?] The Tommies passed with about 200 prisoners this morning. I salvaged a revolver and a lot of other trinkets.
Saturday 24th August
Today we were camped a little out from Hebuterne Wood. We packed up about ten o’clock and advanced about four miles into Jerry’s old line.
Sunday 25th August
Today we are camped in the open air a little east of Puisieux. We are on our advance towards Bapaume. We were supposed to mop it up today, but I do not think we are going to move. Our troops have advanced about eight miles since Tuesday.
Wednesday 28th August
Bapaume fell today.
Saturday 31st August
I am sitting in an old Hun bivvy on the outskirts of Bapaume. We are in a reserve and are fairly comfortable. Poor Earney Gooch got killed today. Poor beggar. Jerry counter-attacked this morning but came some awful gutzers.
Monday 2nd September 1918
Today I am camped in a little village just out of Bapaume. Jerry seems to have retired again today as the balloons [Zeppellins] have all moved forward. I have heard today the Canterburys took 1200 prisoners last night and that the Cavalry had gone over. There are thousands of Tommies passing up towards the line tonight.
Monday 9th September [gassed]
This morning we hopped the bags in front of Metz for the second time.
I came down that evening from our posse in the chalk pit, as I was gassed pretty bad. I was speaking to Horace Catton late that night, he was telling me he had met his brother Rupert in Metz and Gwen told him to tell me to write. Also he was saying how lucky he had been.
Friday 13th September
Today I heard that Archie Jackson was killed. Poor Archie.
Saturday 14th September
Tonight we are camped in a village a little out of Bapaume. Charley Hill has just come over to see me. We went for a walk around the camp. He was wounded in the Rossignol Wood stunt.
Sunday 15th September [learns cousin Tommy killed]
Today is Sunday. We had Church Parade. In the morning and had a bit of a lecture by some Bishop. In the afternoon I went over to see Charley Hill, as we both intended to go round and see Tommy. [Preston, a cousin]
Charley was not home and it was late as it was late I thought I would go around on my own. After a lot of trouble I found Tommy’s Company and met Alf Evans who told me Tommy was killed. It was an awful blow to me but I half expected it as I knew they had been cut up. Alf Evans reckoned that he was buried in the Grevillier cemetery and I went over to see if I could find his grave, but after a long search was unsuccessful.
I was surprised to find Horace Catton’s grave. He was just buried yesterday. I have heard since he was badly wounded in the groin. Well, I went back to Tommy’s Coy, and the Sargt. and Corp. Were just going to take a stroll around so I went with them and found Tommy’s grave where he was killed. To my great joy. It was in an old trench on the right of the railway line southwest of Bapaume and near a cottage with the name of Avesnes marked on it. I went into a French garden close by and cut two rose cuttings and planted them on his grave. His tin hat was on his grave with a hole right through it. He must have been sniped through the head and killed instantly. God bless him.
...
Tuesday 24th September
...
Tuesday 24th September
Today the boys went on a ten-mile route march. I dodged it and went on a salvage party. I met Joe Rehangi and in the evening met Bill Barber and Jack Baty.
Wednesday 25th September
Today we went on a practice stunt in the vicinity of Pavraeul. [Proville, west of Cambrai?] It was rather hard going. An aeroplane landed through engine trouble a short distance from my bivvy. I went over to the Wellingtons to see Jack Baty.
Monday 30th September
Today we are in reserve to our first and second brigade just west of Cambrai.
Tuesday 1st October 1918
Today we moved up from the old positions and are camped across the Hindenburg line. We expect to move any time.
Wednesday 2nd October
Today we shifted across the canal and are bivvied in a trench a short distance from it. Jerry is shelling us a little. We got a lot of reinforcements tonight, the 28th Reinforcements.
Wednesday 9th October
This morning we hopped the bags once again, for the third time. By some mistake, we got caught in our own barrage. We were attached to C Coy. Fred Singlekow, Ben Carman and Kiles [and] big Paddy were wounded.
Thursday 10th October
We had eight casualties in our Platoon. We advanced 3000 yards but did not meet the Hun. He seemed to have gone off for his life. We were relieved that night by the 1st Brigade.
Friday 11th October
This morning the 1st Brigade advanced about 6 miles and liberated 3000 civilians in a small village.
Saturday 12th October
Today we arrived in the village of Esnes. We are camped in a French house and are living like Kings on the Froggie’s vegetables.
Wednesday 16th October
Tonight we are still in the village of Esnes having a pretty good time. We salvaged a couple of sacks of potatoes last night.
Tuesday 22nd October
Tonight we are in the village of Caudry where a lot of civilians are. They do not look too well.
Thursday 24nd October
Tonight we arrived in the Front Line, took over from the 2nd brigade. They made great progress and took the Divisional Objective.
Sunday 27th October
Today we are forming a defensive flank. The Tommies are on our right. It is a very good position. A lot of D Coy got gassed today. Jerry counter-attacked the Second Battallion and took 1 Platoon prisoner.
Monday 28th October
This afternoon I left the Front Line (our battalion is being relieved tonight). To go to Beuvois to an NCO School. It will be a month’s course. Mr Dudson got killed today, also Mr Slater got gassed and died.
Tuesday 29th October
Today we arrived at Beuvois. We got a ride from the transport line in a motor lorry.
Saturday 2nd November [Len's record is incorrect - the Capture of Les Quesnoy, actually took place on Monday November 4]
Today our Battallion made the attack on Le Quesnoy and took 2700 prisoners and 40 guns. Charley Hill was killed in this attack.
Sunday 3rd November 1918
Today I am still at the Div NCO School at Beauvois. I and John Torrence went to Caudry again today, we saw our friend the Mademoiselle etc and had a cup of coffee. I wrote home to mother tonight.
Friday 8th November
Today we heard that Austria had signed the Armistice and General Haig’s message to the troops was (The End is Near)
Saturday 9th November
Tonight I am in Le Quesnoy. We are still at the NCO School. There is considerable discontent here. I wrote to old Charley Hill tonight.
Armistice Day
Monday 11th November
Today news came through that Germany had signed the Armistice. We were all very pleased over it.
Tuesday 12th November
Today we went to Namur [Belgium]. This is a pretty big town about the size of Wellington. We enjoyed ourselves very much.
Wednesday 13th November
Tonight we are in Fountaine. The boys went crook at a rumour that we were going on garrison duty to Germany and held a bit of a demonstration.
Friday 15th November
Today we arrived at the village of Bouillieul. We are pretty tired and I think we will get two days spell here.
Monday 18th November
We are bivvied in a small village called Boullieul. It is a pretty dreary short of show. We had a bath there. We are preparing to move on again in the morning.
...
Thursday 28th November
Left Beauvois for the Rhineland and got as far as Solesmes and a little past Hoisy[?]
Friday 29th November
Left a village a little out of Solesmes and marched past Le Quesnoy and stopped at a village a little further on.
Saturday 30th November
Marched on to a place a little before Maubeuge called La Longeville. In the three days we covered a distance of 36 miles and were very tired.
Sunday 1st December 1918 [Zeppelin ship at Mauberge]
Today was Sunday and in the afternoon we got on a lorry and got a ride to Mauberge, a big town about seven kilos away. There were plenty of shops there and the town looked very nice. Took a walk around to the Zeppelin ship. An enormous shed that the Germans had built with French prisoners. It covered four acres and was 300 yards long and 70 wide and about a hundred feet high. It was worth seeing.
Monday 2nd December
It was raining practically all day and we stayed inside and had a spell.
Tuesday 3rd December
We got on the march again this morning and marched as far as Boissons a distance of seven miles. We bivvied alongside a big glass manufacturing works and they were worth looking at. Inside the works were some tremendous bombs. I should say they would weigh nearly a ton.
Wednesday 4th December
We got on the road again and marched to Jeumont just over the Belgium border. There was plenty of beer here and the boys had a night out.
Thursday 5th December
We are on the road again, marched about nine miles to a Belgium town called Thuin. We were paid today.
May 31, 1919 - Embarked for New Zealand on SS Kigoma (NZ Troop Ship # 262, from Plymouth,
July 15, 1919 Disembarked Wellington
July 15, 1919 Disembarked Wellington
August 12, 1919 - Discharged
After the war |
When Len returned to Manutuke, the family gave up the farm and his parents, Robert and Rosina moved to Mangapapa, near Gisborne. Presumably the farm was too much for the family to manage, especially now that they were older and making their own way.
Having taken time to travel around the UK after the war, Len missed out on the few jobs that were available to returning soldiers. Len and his brother Robert Jnr moved up north to find work and for a time worked as farmhands on a farm in Waiuku, near Auckland. Len later landed a job with the New Zealand railways in the Picton rail yards. (The NZ Railways had lost 450 men in the first World War.)
Following up on the advice of his friends Noel and Horace Catton, Len caught up with their sister Gwen and the two dated for a while. Perhaps, leaving Gisborne to go north put an end to their relationship, but the family remember they did see each other for a time.
Len met his future wife, our grandmother Phyllis Kerr of while on holiday in the Bay of Islands. They were both staying at the Opua boarding house (which is still operating to this day as holiday accommodation). Phyllis was holidaying there with her mother.
After long-distance correspondence, they eventually married on the 11th June, 1930 in St Columbus Church in her hometown of Mangamahoe in the Wairarapa. Len was 33, and Phyllis 24.
 |
| Leonard Langdale Preston and Phyllis Isobel (nee Kerr), Jun 1930. |
Len continued to for the railways his entire life, including working in railway yards in Christchurch, and later in Mosgiel, as a signalman.
 |
| Len and his four children. |
He was a proud father of four children (Stewart, Margaret, Jenny and John, as pictured above) and a beloved grandfather to 9 grandchildren. Len died 29 August, 1975, aged 78. He is buried in the East Taeri cemetery, with his wife and youngest son John.
 |
| Len, around the early 1970s. |
Len's family donated his certificate, war medals (British war medal and Victory medal), along with some German war souvenirs including a helmet and pistol, to the Dunedin R.S.A. after Len passed away. The family kept the diary, along with his collection of postcards.
________________
Index
People, places and events mentioned in Len's diary
Barber, Bill - Feb 17, 1918; Sep 24, 1918;
Barber, Les - Jun 14, 1918;
[ http://www.aucklandmuseum.com/war-memorial/online-cenotaph/search?n=barber%2c&doe=1917|December|31 ]
Baty, Jack (of Manutuke) - Sep 24, 1918; Sep 25, 1918; [ http://ndhadeliver.natlib.govt.nz/delivery/DeliveryManagerServlet?dps_pid=IE12133531 ]
Baupaume, Battle of - Aug 28, 1918;
Brockton Camp -
Carman, Ben - Oct 9 1918; [wounded]
Catton, Noel - Mar 22 1918; Mar 23, 1918;
Catton, Horace - Sep 9, 1918; Sep 15 1918 - found his grave - died (wounded in groin)
Catton, Rupert - Sep 15 1918
Clearwater, Charlie - Mar 11; Mar 19 1918; Mar 20 1918; broke camp to see him before he left for France [ http://www.aucklandmuseum.com/war-memorial/online-cenotaph/record/C100685 ]
Crosby, Sgt - Jan 24, 1918
Cunninghame - Jan 6, 1918
Daulton, Frank - Mar 2, 1918, Brockton;
Dudson, Mr - Oct 28 1918; [killed]
Evans, ? - Jan 13, 1918;
Evans, G.G. - contracted measles
Evans, Alf - Sep 15, 1918;
George, Torpedo - Mar 29, 1918
Gooch, Earney - Sat Aug 31, 1918; [killed]
Green, Nurse - gave Len the diary [on ship or in NZ camp?]
? Gwen - told Catton brothers to ask Len to write...
Hawkins, Darkie - Mar 3, 1918;
Hay, Arnold - Mar 2, 1918;
Hill, Charley - Sep 14, 1918 [wounded] ; Nov 9 1918; [killed at Le Quesnoy, wrote to his father Nov 9 1918 ] - see http://www.aucklandmuseum.com/war-memorial/online-cenotaph/record/C6962 ]
Hindenberg Line - Oct 1, 1918;
Jackson, Archie - Sep 13 1918 [killed]
Johnson, Andy - May 21 1918
Kiles - Oct 9 1918;
Larkhill Camp - arrived Feb 26 1918
Liston, George - Feb 17 1918;
London, Munitions ship explosion [date];
Massey, Bill - Jul 1 1918
measles - broke out on the Athenic [Feb 20 1918;
Paddy, 'Big' - Oct 9 1918;
Perfect, Joe – Jan 17, 1918; Feb 17 1918
Purple Line, The - June 14
Preetho incident - Len chief witness Aug 13, at Rossignol Farm
Preston, Thomas (Tommy) - Aug 12;
Les Quesnoy, Battle of - Nov 2 1918
Rehangi, Joe - Sep 24 1918;
Ronald - Mar 29, 1918
'Russ' ? - Mar 21, 1918
Singlekow, Fred - Oct 9 1918; [wounded]
Slater, Mr - Oct 28 1918; [gassed and died]
Smith - Jan 13, 1918
Stewart, Brigadeer General - June 14, 1918 - inspection
Torrence, John - Nov 3 1918
Walsh - Jan 23, 1918;
Ward, Joseph (Joey) - Jul 1, 1918
Barber, Bill - Feb 17, 1918; Sep 24, 1918;
Barber, Les - Jun 14, 1918;
[ http://www.aucklandmuseum.com/war-memorial/online-cenotaph/search?n=barber%2c&doe=1917|December|31 ]
Baty, Jack (of Manutuke) - Sep 24, 1918; Sep 25, 1918; [ http://ndhadeliver.natlib.govt.nz/delivery/DeliveryManagerServlet?dps_pid=IE12133531 ]
Baupaume, Battle of - Aug 28, 1918;
Brockton Camp -
Barber, Les - Jun 14, 1918;
[ http://www.aucklandmuseum.com/war-memorial/online-cenotaph/search?n=barber%2c&doe=1917|December|31 ]
Baty, Jack (of Manutuke) - Sep 24, 1918; Sep 25, 1918; [ http://ndhadeliver.natlib.govt.nz/delivery/DeliveryManagerServlet?dps_pid=IE12133531 ]
Baupaume, Battle of - Aug 28, 1918;
Brockton Camp -
Carman, Ben - Oct 9 1918; [wounded]
Catton, Noel - Mar 22 1918; Mar 23, 1918;
Catton, Horace - Sep 9, 1918; Sep 15 1918 - found his grave - died (wounded in groin)
Catton, Rupert - Sep 15 1918
Clearwater, Charlie - Mar 11; Mar 19 1918; Mar 20 1918; broke camp to see him before he left for France [ http://www.aucklandmuseum.com/war-memorial/online-cenotaph/record/C100685 ]
Crosby, Sgt - Jan 24, 1918
Cunninghame - Jan 6, 1918
Daulton, Frank - Mar 2, 1918, Brockton;
Dudson, Mr - Oct 28 1918; [killed]
Evans, ? - Jan 13, 1918;
Evans, G.G. - contracted measles
Evans, Alf - Sep 15, 1918;
George, Torpedo - Mar 29, 1918
Catton, Noel - Mar 22 1918; Mar 23, 1918;
Catton, Horace - Sep 9, 1918; Sep 15 1918 - found his grave - died (wounded in groin)
Catton, Rupert - Sep 15 1918
Clearwater, Charlie - Mar 11; Mar 19 1918; Mar 20 1918; broke camp to see him before he left for France [ http://www.aucklandmuseum.com/war-memorial/online-cenotaph/record/C100685 ]
Crosby, Sgt - Jan 24, 1918
Cunninghame - Jan 6, 1918
Daulton, Frank - Mar 2, 1918, Brockton;
Dudson, Mr - Oct 28 1918; [killed]
Evans, ? - Jan 13, 1918;
Evans, G.G. - contracted measles
Evans, Alf - Sep 15, 1918;
George, Torpedo - Mar 29, 1918
Gooch, Earney - Sat Aug 31, 1918; [killed]
Green, Nurse - gave Len the diary [on ship or in NZ camp?]
? Gwen - told Catton brothers to ask Len to write...
Hawkins, Darkie - Mar 3, 1918;
Hay, Arnold - Mar 2, 1918;
Hill, Charley - Sep 14, 1918 [wounded] ; Nov 9 1918; [killed at Le Quesnoy, wrote to his father Nov 9 1918 ] - see http://www.aucklandmuseum.com/war-memorial/online-cenotaph/record/C6962 ]
Hindenberg Line - Oct 1, 1918;
Jackson, Archie - Sep 13 1918 [killed]
Johnson, Andy - May 21 1918
Kiles - Oct 9 1918;
Larkhill Camp - arrived Feb 26 1918
Liston, George - Feb 17 1918;
London, Munitions ship explosion [date];
Massey, Bill - Jul 1 1918
measles - broke out on the Athenic [Feb 20 1918;
Paddy, 'Big' - Oct 9 1918;
Perfect, Joe – Jan 17, 1918; Feb 17 1918
Purple Line, The - June 14
Preetho incident - Len chief witness Aug 13, at Rossignol Farm
Preston, Thomas (Tommy) - Aug 12;
Les Quesnoy, Battle of - Nov 2 1918
Rehangi, Joe - Sep 24 1918;
Ronald - Mar 29, 1918
'Russ' ? - Mar 21, 1918
Singlekow, Fred - Oct 9 1918; [wounded]
Slater, Mr - Oct 28 1918; [gassed and died]
Smith - Jan 13, 1918
Stewart, Brigadeer General - June 14, 1918 - inspection
Torrence, John - Nov 3 1918
Walsh - Jan 23, 1918;
Ward, Joseph (Joey) - Jul 1, 1918
Green, Nurse - gave Len the diary [on ship or in NZ camp?]
? Gwen - told Catton brothers to ask Len to write...
Hawkins, Darkie - Mar 3, 1918;
Hay, Arnold - Mar 2, 1918;
Hill, Charley - Sep 14, 1918 [wounded] ; Nov 9 1918; [killed at Le Quesnoy, wrote to his father Nov 9 1918 ] - see http://www.aucklandmuseum.com/war-memorial/online-cenotaph/record/C6962 ]
Hindenberg Line - Oct 1, 1918;
Jackson, Archie - Sep 13 1918 [killed]
Johnson, Andy - May 21 1918
Kiles - Oct 9 1918;
Larkhill Camp - arrived Feb 26 1918
Liston, George - Feb 17 1918;
London, Munitions ship explosion [date];
Massey, Bill - Jul 1 1918
measles - broke out on the Athenic [Feb 20 1918;
Paddy, 'Big' - Oct 9 1918;
Perfect, Joe – Jan 17, 1918; Feb 17 1918
Purple Line, The - June 14
Preetho incident - Len chief witness Aug 13, at Rossignol Farm
Preston, Thomas (Tommy) - Aug 12;
Les Quesnoy, Battle of - Nov 2 1918
Rehangi, Joe - Sep 24 1918;
Ronald - Mar 29, 1918
'Russ' ? - Mar 21, 1918
Singlekow, Fred - Oct 9 1918; [wounded]
Slater, Mr - Oct 28 1918; [gassed and died]
Smith - Jan 13, 1918
Stewart, Brigadeer General - June 14, 1918 - inspection
Torrence, John - Nov 3 1918
Walsh - Jan 23, 1918;
Ward, Joseph (Joey) - Jul 1, 1918
