Edward Cyrus Richards: Service and Sickness

Edward Cyrus Richards, the Métis son of Reverend Edward Richards Sr. and Jane Jones, was born on June 14, 1887, near James Bay. A descendant of the Favell family, Edward worked as a clerk and was living at the Fort Hope Post on the Albany River before being conscripted during the First World War and forced to join the 1st Depot Battalion in June 1918.

Edward's departure for Europe was delayed just one month after he joined his battalion when he was hospitalized in Port Arthur for a severe skin infection on his arm. He required ten days to recover before he could resume his duties.

Things then began to move rapidly for Edward, who departed for England on August 30, 1918. Like many other conscripts at the time, he received very little training before entering the field for the final days of the war. His brief hospital stay further contributed to his lack of preparation upon arrival.

Before he could reach the field in France, Edward was hospitalized again on October 26, 1918, this time suffering from severe influenza. His health deteriorated quickly, marked by a rising temperature and a worsening lung condition. By November 1, 1918, his status was updated to “seriously ill,” increasing the concern for his well-being. 

On November 10, 1918, just one day before the peace agreement would mark the end of the First World War, Edward succumbed to his illness in No.12 Canadian General Hospital in Bramshott. He is remembered with honour at the Bramshott (St. Mary) Churchyard.

Edward’s ongoing resilience and strength illustrate the battles many soldiers faced away from the frontlines, under difficult conditions at all stages of the First World War. Today, we honour his strength, his service, and the quiet sacrifices made far from the battlefield.

See Our Sources

• Edward Cyrus Richards CGWP

• Edward Cyrus Richards Service File

• Favell-Titameg VMFL

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