57358: Painting of a bird (redstart)

Inscription: "Pte A.C. Powell. Norwich 25.2.1916 "

This is a watercolour painting of a redstart made by Clifford Powell whilst stationed in Norwich. He was an accomplished wildlife artist, his illustrations had been published in books about Welsh wildlife.

Arthur Clifford 'Cliff' Powell was the eldest son of W.J. and Clara Powell, and older brother of Walter Powell. Their brother Percy died of his wounds in 1917. According to Walter Powell's notes Cliff had "served over 3 years at Ypres" in three regiments Herefords, Monmouth's, Somerset Light Infantry, "In 5 Battalions. Terrible Losses".

Part of a collection relating to Walter H. Powell, Llandrindod Wells, (private / driver M2-267205 Mechanised Transport Army Service Corps). Born 1898, Walter tried to join up under-age on a number of occasions, finally succeeding in 1916. He served many months - (more than 2 years?) - in different army units in Britain, before going over to France. He served as a despatch rider for an anti-aircraft battery in 1918-1919. Walter was gassed "suffering the effects all his life". He was a founder member of Toc-H in Llandrindod, and a keen footballer - he died in 1994 aged 96. However Walter's older brothers (Cliff and Percy Powell) and his uncle (Humphrey Powell) died of wounds sustained during the war.