Harold Gill (1919-2003): Biographical Entry
Born 17 May 1919. Father a bricklayer. 4th of 7 children of father’s second marriage. Received formal education from age 4. No …
Harold Gill (1919-2003): Researching Writing Lives
Researching and telling the story of Harold Gill’s incredible life has been an unforgettable and inspiring journey. Through the Writing Lives project …
Harold Gill (1919-2003): Home and Family
Family life in the early phases of the 20th century was a daily battle for Britain’s working class. Harold Gill’s experience was …
Harold Gill (1919-2003): Habits and Beliefs
Like many children growing up in the early twentieth century, Harold’s childhood was dominated by the church and religion. He writes in …
Harold Gill (1919-2003): Class Matters
Harold Gill immediately identifies himself as a working-class man. This is seen through his account of childhood and the hardship that his …
Harold Gill (1919-2003): War and Memory Part Two
Perhaps the most refreshing aspect of Harold’s memoir is the gruesome authenticity of it. He does not try to glorify his experiences …
Harold Gill (1919-2003): Education and Schooling
Harold Gill was something of a model pupil during his time at school. Or at least he was a pupil well-liked by …
Harold Gill (1919-2003): Purpose and Audience
Gagnier writes that ‘Most working class autobiographies begin not with a family lineage or a birthdate but rather with an apology for …
Harold Gill (1919-2003): War and Memory
Harold’s memoir is dominated by the topic of war and conflict. From the moment of conscription in 1939 to his emotional homecoming …