Joseph Matthew Hollis was born some time after April 1894 in Newcastle to Thomas and Martha Hollis. Thomas was born in Burslem and Martha in Ashley, Shropshire. Matthew had 6 brothers and sisters, one of whom did not survive childhood.

Although born in Newcastle, according to the 1901 Census, the family were living in Alsager and Thomas was listed as a House Painter. By 1908, when he is listed as one of our original Scouts (with his surname misspelt Hollies!), the family are living at 129 Watlands View, Porthill. The family are at the same address in 1911 and Matthew is now an Apprentice House Painter, possibly working for his father who is still listed as a House Painter.

Joseph served as Private Joseph Matthew Hollis, 201905 2/6th Battalion Prince of Wales’s (North Staffordshire Regiment).

He was killed on 21st March 1918.

Joseph Matthew Hollis was awarded the British War Medal and the Allied Victory Medal. He is commemorated on the Arras Memorial in France and in the Book of Remembrance in St. Andrew’s Church.

Link to his CWGC commemoration.

Joseph Matthew Hollis on the Arras Memorial ¹