THOMAS HERBERT DIBBLE
Born: 1894, Darwen, Lancashire.
Died: 26th May 1915; age 21; KiA – Herbert was severely wounded and died peacefully the same day. He was buried where he fell, and over his grave was erected a simple wooden cross.
Residence: Ipswich.
Enlistment Location: Clapham Junction, London.
Date of Entry Therein: 14th March 1915 – France.
Rank: Private; Service Number: 2874
Regiment: London Regiment, 23rd (County of London) Battalion.
Medals Awarded: Victory, British War & 1915 Star.
Memorial Reference:
Panels 45 & 46.
Pas de Calais,
France.
Relatives Notified & Address: Son of Herbert James & Lillie Maria Dibble, of 15A, St. Matthew’s Street, Ipswich.
CENSUS
1901 97, Richmond Road, Ipswich.
Thomas was 7 years old and living with his parents & brother.
Herbert James Dibble, 30, a Clothiers Manager, born Bridgewater, Somerset.
Lillie Maria Dibble (nee Woolley), born Monmouth, Monmouthshire.
Percy James Dibble, 4 months, born Ipswich.
1911 15A, St. Matthew’s Street, Ipswich.
Thomas was 17 years old, a School Teacher – Borough Council. He was living with his parents.
Herbert, 41, a Clothier – Retailer – own account.
Lillie, 41.
Percy, 10.
Soldiers’ Effects to Herbert J. Dibble – father.
Thomas is also remembered on the war memorial at SPRINGFIELD SCHOOL, Ipswich, and at Northgate High School. Formerly Ipswich Grammar School for Boys.
East Anglian Daily Times – Saturday, 3rd July 1915 – AN IPSWICH HERO – PRIVATE T. H. DIBBLE – many Ipswichians who knew the late Private Thomas H. Dibble, whose parents reside in St. Matthew’s, will appreciate the following extracts taken from the July “Westminster Training College Monthly War Bulletin,” edited by the Principal: –
Private Thomas Herbert Dibble, who joined the 23rd London Rifle Regiment in September 1914, left for France on the 15th March, 1915. On the 25th May he was severely wounded and died peacefully the same day. He was buried where he fell, and over his grave stands a simple wooden cross. To all Westminster men, especially those of the years 1911 – 13, the announcement of this first casualty among the Old W’s who have enlisted will give the deepest regret. Tom Dibble was popular, not only because of his qualities as an athlete and gymnast but on account of his character and attractive disposition. He entered Westminster College in the year 1911 from Ipswich Municipal Secondary School, having passed the Cambridge Senior Local Examination with second-class honours, with exemption from London Matriculation. His was a type of muscular Christianity which appealed to all with whom he came in contact. Before he entered the College he had won a reputation as a cricketer, footballer, and gymnast, and these qualities he combined with a practical interest in religious work. One who knew him for many years spoke of him as quiet, steady, studious, earnest of purpose, having the respect and esteem of all who knew him. His work and conduct in College gave every satisfaction, and he was classed as one of the best teachers of his “Year.” He excelled in physical exercises, was a good swimmer, and was no mean executant on the violin. On the completion of his course, he took service under the London County Council in the Settles Street Council School, Commercial Road, Stepney. There he continued to do quiet but effective work until his enlistment. In giving his life to his country it may truly be said that he has made “the great sacrifice,” and Old Westminsterians and his Alma Mater will know how to cherish his memory. Our sympathies are respectfully offered to his bereaved parents.
Since writing the above, a letter has been received from Mr. J. W. P. Bawden (1876-77), who was the Headmaster of the London County Council School in which Mr. Herbert Dibble served for a period of 12 months. It is a fine testimony of our comrade’s character: –
“Dear Dr. Workman,
The news of Mr. Herbert Dibble’s death came all too soon! During the twelve months he was with us I found him more than all that you suggest. He was genial, loyal, manly, willing, and able, and in a very short time, he had endeared himself to all.
He was a great favourite with the boys, whose confidence he gained at once, and, had he been spared, his influence with them would have been invaluable. It is not usual in these days to have a young man, fresh from college, competent to take a class of big boys and manage them easily! That was Mr. Dibble’s forte. Of his character, I can speak in the highest terms. His conduct was as open as his countenance. He had no fear because he had nothing to conceal. A true sportsman, he could not but be popular. We mourn his loss and shall ever keep his memory in reverence.
“That Westminster will continue to send out such men and heroes is the prayer of
“Yours very sincerely.
Mr. J. W. P. Bawden (West. 1876-77).”
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