Harry's Story.
Birkenhead News 22 March 1916
Ferry Captain’s Death
WHILST SERVING IN FRANCE
The news of the death of Company Sergeant Major Smedley of the Royal Engineers, has been received by his wife Mrs. Smedley, who resides at 12, Orchard Road, Lower Tranmere.
Coy. Sergt. Major Smedley joined the colours in August 1915, and in October he left for France. He was employed as a master of an ammunition barge on the canals. Whilst following his duties, he was taken suddenly ill, and although he was removed to a hospital with all possible speed, he expired a few hours later without ever having regained consciousness
The sad information of his death will occasion much sympathy for his relatives and intimate friends and will be regretted by contractors and passengers of the Woodside Ferries. The deceased was, prior to joining the colours, employed on the ferry steamers for a great number of years, and for the last sixteen had held the rank of captain. He was a well-known figure and a large circle of friends will have lost a true companion.