David John Pook 1885 – 1956

by Hilary Davies | The Pook Family

David John Pook was born 13th June 1885 to Postmaster, builder, Parish Councillor and fire chief Frederick William Pook and Caroline Mary Louisa Pook née Hill. Although originally apprenticed as a builder and working with his father, David also became village Postmaster and Parish Councillor following in the family tradition begun by his grandfather John Pook.

David’s sister, Louisa Eliza Alice Pook, died in 1927 aged 41 years. She is buried in the graveyard at the Parish Church of St John the Baptist, next to her parents.

Family and life in the community

David married Elizabeth Ann Smith, a schoolmistress, who taught the infant class at Bishopsteignton School on 20th October 1906. They first lived in a house called Belle Vue, then at 3, River View Terrace with their three children, Vida Caroline Mary (1908), Frederick John (1910) and Nancy May (1914).

He Joined the army in 1914 and served in the Royal Devonshire Yeomanry, Devonshire Regiment and Royal Field Artillery before being discharged in 1920.

After his father’s death in 1924, he and his family moved into Smith Hill House with his mother, Caroline.

The family continued its positive contribution to many aspects of village life.

Photograph of Bishopsteignton Football Team 1903

Bishopsteignton Rugby Football Team 1905. David Pook is middle row 2nd from left.

David’s sister, Louisa Eliza Alice, died in 1927 aged 41 years. She is buried in the graveyard at the Parish Church of St John the Baptist, next to her parents.

He is shown as having joined Bishopsteignton Parish Council in 1934.

The 1939 census register shows David was both Village Postmaster and Special Constable.

David John Pook 1885 – 1956

Family and life in the community

References