Biography of Archbald William SMITH
[Ref. R.21]
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Dwellings |
Biography of Archbald William SMITH
[Ref. R.21]
| Biography index | |
Dwellings |
Archbald William Smith was born on 1 April 1909 at 26 Eardley Road, Streatham. His birth was
registered in Streatham, being a sub-district of Wandsworth, on 4 May 1909. He was the
second child of three, having an elder brother Harvey and a younger sister Marie. He can be seen
standing on the left in this picture which was taken in the back garden of their home at 189
Mitcham Lane in Streatham.
Archie was educated at St. Leonard's School between 1915 and 1921 and there are photographs of him in class during those years. He was as awarded four school certificates for good conduct and meritorious work have survived with other keepsakes.during that period. His father was a school master at that school for his entire teaching career.
Archie also had connections with his parish church of St.Alban's in Streatham Park where he sang in the choir and where, in 1924, he was confirmed. He also received a certificate for examination passes in Religious Studies at school.
He had an aptitude for music and took well to playing the piano, receiving certificates for passing joint exams of the Royal Academy of Music and Royal College of Music at primary level in 1919, at elementary level in 1920 and at lower level in 1921. He was also awarded a certificate of High Commendation at the London Music Competition Festival in 1920.
It is believed that Archie completed his education at Streatham Grammar School.
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