Biographical notes:
Occupation: Telegraph Messenger (1901), Chief Petty Officer (Navy); Licenced Victualler (1939).
Addresses: At birth (1885) - 29 Witley Road, Upper Holloway, LON; At 1891 census - 42 Thorpedale Road, Islington, LON; At 1901 census - 17 Dean Street, Scarborough, YKS, At Marriage (1915) - HMS Cyclops; At death (1939) - Fleece Inn, 183 Church Street, Whitby, YKS.
His grand-daughter writes, "Jack joined the navy age 17 [actually on his 18th birthday] and proceeded through the ranks to Chief Petty Officer. He was a deep sea diver - this may have given him chest problems in later life. All his conduct is described as good or very good! "
He served 22 years, which at that time was the maximum time a rating could serve, after which he may have been eligible to draw a pension. Early in his career as a torpedoman he qualified as a diver and in November 1919, mid-way through his second engagement, he qualified as a Diver 1st Class shortly before being promoted to the rank of Chief Petty officer. In May 1923 he qualified as a Torpedo Gunners Mate making him recognised as a Torpedo Branch Instructor. During the period of his service the Torpedo Branch was responsible for maintaining electrical services as well as all that was entailed in the maintenance and operation of torpedos and their associated equipment. Diving in the RN at that time was all "hard hat" diving and was a part time requirement associated with inspection of ships under-water fittings and various aspects of the use of mines and minefields which also came within the area of responsibility of the branch. While it is possible that his diving activities could have resulted in chest problems later in life, it is also possible that he could have contracted "consumption" in the confined quarters aboard ship.
His death in Bradford was the subject of an inquest, held 5 Dec 1939, certificate issued by R.S.Bishop, Coroner.
Probate reads:
"DOWNS John Alfred Oram of the Fleece Hotel, Church-street Whitby died 2 December 1939 at Bradford Administration York 19 December to Annie Downs, widow. Effects £357 5s."
Reference documents:
1885 baptism record.
1885 birth certificate.
1911 census return - in navy.
ca 1913 - photograph.
1915 marriage certificate.
1925 naval service record.
1939 register entry.
1939 death certificate.
1939 probate record.