Arthur Ernest Smith 1895-1971

[Macj99]

Thank you so much, it’s very kind of you . How do you access the site and is it free?

[ShaunJ]

It's the local archives https://www.archivesdepartementales76.net/

Yes it's free.

I knew the date of Genevieve's birth (from the 1939 Register) so it wasn't difficult to find the registration. I guessed she was born in Le Havre as there was no record of the birth in England.

[Macj99]

Thank you again. Would you have any idea what an English man was doing in Le Havre about 1918- 1930. I have picture which I think is him in a Royal Navy uniform with his sister, but cannot locate any records. Initially I thought it was in connection with Ww1 as Arthur Smith would have been about 18 when Ww1 broke out.

[ShaunJ]

There was a French steam yacht Bacchante belonging to the Menier family which I think was based at Le Havre.

Can you post your photo here? Does it definitely say HMS on his cap?

[Macj99]

I have just looked at it again and realised it says HMY Bacchants.

[ShaunJ]

"BACCHANTE II (ex-ZARIA), hired yacht, Pendant No 047. Built 1891, 759grt/973TM. Armament: 2-12pdr. In service from 1.2.15. May have served as wireless-equipped A/P Group Leader or in special yacht squadrons, at home or in Mediterranean. Transferred 25.2.16 to France."

https://www.naval-history.net/WW1NavyBritishShips-Dittmar1.htm#b

[Macj99]

with your help I think I have managed to piece most of this together. thank you for your help.
do you know if there are crew lists anywhere? I have been in touch with an elderly uncle and with your info it has prompted him with information which he previoulsy could not remember.

[HMac]

Which one of the junior ratings is A.E. Smith in the photo?

Regards
Hugh

[Macj99]

The ne on the right front