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St
Mary the Virgin, Cannon Street
L/Col Christopher Middlemass Davidson MVO (4th class)
Lieutenant Colonel Christopher
Middlemass Davidson died at the home of his son-in-law at 85
Barkston Gardens, London on 5th June 1922, aged 80. He had
recently undergone an operation.
He had lived in Dover for many years, and before 1904 had
served on the Town Council. His home was at 14 Victoria Park,
an area which was commandeered by Military Authorities for a
rest camp during the war.. He was a member of HM
King's Honourable Corps of Gentlemen at Arms from 5th May
1889 till his death. His will was proved in September 1922
at £7,644.
He was born on 6th May 1843 and
became an Ensign 4th Foot on 26th February 1862. On 19th
March 1866 he was a Lieutenant, between 21st April 1875 and
22nd June 1876 an Adjutant of the Auxiliary Forces, and
between 24th July 1868 to 1st January 1869 he was an
Adjutant. He was made Captain of the 4th Foot on 23rd June
1875, and Captain of the 104th Foot on 23rd October 1875. He
became Major of the Royal Muster Fusiliers on 1st July 1881,
and retired as honourable Lieutenant Colonel on 10th June
1882.
Lt Colonel's Davidson's Funeral
was held at St Jude's Church, Kensington, and his body was
then brought to Dover to be interred at St Mary's. Borne on
a gun carriage, the coffin was accompanied by
representatives from nearly every unit in the Garrison, and
was draped with the union flag. On top were Lt Colonel's
helmet, sword, and gauntlets. The coffin was buried with
full military honours. There were very many mourners at the
graveside.
His son, Lt Francis
Coventry Dudfield Davidson was killed in action on 23rd February 1900
in the South African War. He served in the 4th King's Own
Royal Lancashire Regiment, becoming 2nd Lieutenant on 6th
March 1895, and Lieutenant on 1st January 1897. He is
commemorated on the South African War memorial in St Mary's
church.
Another son, Captain
Christopher Edmund Grant Davidson was killed in action on
13th October 1915. He was in the 1st battalion, attached to
the 6th of the Buffs (East Kent Regiment).
with thanks to Mr A G
Belsey
Unveiling St Mary's memorial
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