Harry Farr and the Limits of Understanding Shell Shock in the First World War

In September 1916, Harry Farr, a private soldier in the British Army, was executed by firing squad for desertion on the Western Front. His case is one of the most thoroughly documented among those later associated with the term “Shot at Dawn.” It has become central to discussions about how psychological trauma was understood and acted upon during the First World War.

Harry Farr: A Soldier's Journey

Harry Farr enlisted in 1914 and served on the Western Front during a time marked by relentless artillery bombardment and heavy casualties. Surviving medical and military records reveal that during his service, he was admitted to hospital multiple times, suffering from what doctors described at the time as “nervous collapse.”

By 1915, the term shell shock was already in use, though its causes, severity, and long-term effects were not well understood. Symptoms such as tremors, anxiety, paralysis, and an inability to function under fire were increasingly recognised. However, there was no consistent agreement on whether these symptoms constituted illness, weakness, or a temporary failure of nerve.

In Farr’s case, his symptoms were formally recorded and treated. After periods of hospitalisation, he was returned to active service. This cycle of treatment and return to duty highlights the struggles many soldiers faced during the war.

The Court Martial Process

In September 1916, as preparations for an attack were underway, Farr refused to advance. He was arrested and charged with cowardice. His case was heard by a Field General Court Martial.

As was typical of such proceedings, the trial was brief. Farr had no legal representation. Medical evidence relating to his previous hospital admissions was noted but did not prevent the confirmation of a death sentence. The emphasis of the proceedings was on discipline and obedience under fire rather than on a medical interpretation of his condition.

Within days, the death sentence was confirmed. On 18 October 1916, Harry Farr was executed by firing squad. This tragic event raises questions about the treatment of soldiers suffering from psychological trauma and the harsh realities of military justice.

Family Notification and the Aftermath

The consequences of execution extended far beyond the battlefield. In late 1916, Farr’s wife received a telegram informing her of his death. It read:

“We regret to inform you that Harry Thomas Farr of the First West Yorkshire Regiment has been shot for cowardice in the face of the enemy.”— He Was No Coward: The Harry Farr Story

According to later family accounts, Farr’s widow was acutely aware of the stigma attached to such a notification. She concealed the telegram inside her blouse and resolved not to tell anyone. This silence likely would have continued for much longer had circumstances not intervened.

Several months later, when attending the Post Office to collect her Separation Allowance, she was informed that there was “no money for you today.” This reflected government policy at the time: war widows’ pensions were not paid where a soldier had been executed for a military offence.

Faced with the sudden loss of income, she had no choice but to turn to her family for financial support and to explain the reason for it. In this way, the execution continued to shape the family’s experience long after the event itself.

Reassessment and Pardon

Harry Farr’s case later became central to campaigns calling for a reassessment of the executions carried out during the First World War, particularly where medical evidence of psychological trauma existed.

In 2006, under the Armed Forces Act, Farr was among 306 soldiers granted a posthumous pardon. The decision acknowledged that many of those executed were suffering from conditions that were not properly understood or treated at the time, and that the convictions should no longer stand.

The decision was welcomed by surviving family members. Farr’s daughter, Gertrude Harris, then aged 93, expressed her relief:

“I am so relieved that this ordeal is now over and I can be content knowing that my father’s memory is intact.”— He Was No Coward: The Harry Farr Story

The Importance of Understanding Trauma

Understanding the psychological impact of war is crucial. The experiences of soldiers like Harry Farr remind us of the importance of compassion and understanding in the face of mental health challenges.

Many soldiers returned home bearing invisible scars. Their experiences often went unrecognised, leading to a legacy of silence and stigma. It is essential to continue exploring these stories, as they shed light on the broader implications of war and its aftermath.

About This Research

I am currently researching a number of First World War execution cases using court martial records, medical files, war diaries, and family archives, including the case of my own ancestor. Further case studies and research updates are shared through the SynJon website.

By sharing these narratives, we can foster a deeper understanding of history and its impact on families. It’s a journey of discovery that connects us to the past and helps us honour those who served.

Let’s continue to explore these stories and ensure that the sacrifices of individuals like Harry Farr are never forgotten. Together, we can create a community that values history and the lessons it teaches us.