Bradford Wire Works Manchester

[1branes]

I have been trying for some time to find information on my Grandfather who according to the 1911 Census was a Galvanizer Labourer at the Wire Works (I'm assuming Richard Johnson and Nephew). He died in WW1 and unfortunately my Grandmother didn't speak too much about him. There is a possibility he fought in Gallipoli but this is based on odd throwaway remarks. His details are as follows:
Name: John Barnes
DOB: 5 March 1883
Address 1911: 29 Hope Street, Bradford
Married: 6 June 1903 Ellen Roberts
I have tried various resources including Commonwealth War Graves and Medal Rolls but there are too many John Barnes' listed to find a definite match. Any ideas would be very much appreciated (I read on a previous post here that the Absent voters list might be a good place to look but I wouldn't know where too start). Many thanks in advance, 1branes

[aggiebagwash]

Do you know where he was born? There are a few John Barnes born around 1883 who give their birthplace as inner city Manchester areas ie Beswick, Ancoats Ardwick.
Margaret

[1branes]

I think I can get his place of birth - I'll be back to you later. Thanks Margaret.

[aggiebagwash]

Ok no problem I'm sure we can find something for you.

Margaret

[1branes]

Hi again.
His place of birth  was 167 Cobden Street, 5 March 1883 and the birth was registered in Ancoats Manchester. I haven't been able to find Cobden Street yet but I guess Ancoats or closeby.
Thanks again.

[aggiebagwash]

Ok I will see what I can find. Back soon.

Margaret

[aggiebagwash]

Do you have his parents names or brothers and sisters as there are two or three possible's on the 1891 census. In fact tell me anything you know so I can hone in on the right family and then see if his service records have survived.

There's one photo of Cobden Street Ancoats on Manchester Local Image Collection.

Margaret

[1branes]

Thanks very much Margaret.
His parents were John Barnes and Mary Barnes. I think there were several brothers and sisters (including Thomas, Edna + William).
In the 1901 census they were at 47 Laurence St, Gorton.
I think it was quite a big family (maybe 7 or 8 brothers and sisters). I really appreciate any pointers you can give me.  Cheers, Al.

[aggiebagwash]

I've found the right family on the 1891 and 1881 censuses but didn't want to follow it up just in case.

I can try and find his service records now.

Margaret