Roy Percival Herman was born to Jewish parents, Percy Arthur and Rebecca Herman nee Moeller, in Napier 1892. His family later relocated to Christchurch where his father ran Warner's Hotel. Educated at Christ's College, Roy went on to work at H. Matson and Co., auctioneers and stock and station agents, where he rose to the position of senior accounts sales clerk.
Following the outbreak of the First World War, he enlisted with the Canterbury Regiment of the New Zealand Division on 12 August 1914. The New Zealand Division arrived in Egypt on 3 December 1914. During his time in Egypt, Roy attended the Christmas dinner held by Cantabrian soldiers at Shepheard’s Hotel, Cairo. His signature can be seen on the menu which was signed by those who attended the dinner.
After serving at Gallipoli, Roy proceeded with the New Zealand Division to France in April 1916. It was at Armentieres that Roy was killed on 8 July 1916. He was buried at Cite Bon Jean cemetery in Armentieres.
Do you have any photographs of former soldiers of Canterbury? If so, feel free to contribute to our collection.
The Discovery Wall is a large interactive exhibition which allows several people to simultaneously explore images and stories of the history of the people and places of Christchurch. It is viewable on the ground floor of Tūranga, 60 Cathedral Square, Christchurch, New Zealand or on the Mobile Discovery Wall. Images displayed on the Wall can also be found on the Discovery Wall website.
Christchurch Photo Hunt
The Christchurch Photo Hunt is our annual heritage image competition. It runs from Tuesday 1 October to Thursday 31 October.
More information
- Visit the Discovery Wall
- View more Picturing Canterbury posts
- Find local history classes and events at the library
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