02nd January 2017

Arguing against militarism

Pauline Alden has been exploring the experiences of local man William Varley, who was a Socialist, a member of the No Conscription Fellowship and a pacifist. He is associated with Dove St and Cygnet St and worshipped at Southlands Methodist Chapel before the First World War.

William was an absolutist and would not engage in any form of military service. He was working as a compositor at the world famous De Little & Fenwicks Printers in Vine Street, but was sacked when he failed to present himself to the military authorities.  Follow this link to find out more about his story.