Harold Richards
Early Life
Harold Beckwith Richards was born on February 5, 1890, in Chazy, New York, the son of Louis E. Richards and Margaret A. Morresette. He experienced the loss of both parents at a young age, losing his mother in 1899 and his father in 1903, circumstances that likely shaped his early independence.
By 1920, he had relocated to Rye, New York, where he was living with relatives on Milton Gardens and working as a plumber. Over the following decades, he remained in Rye, establishing himself as a skilled tradesman and later operating his own plumbing and heating business.
World War I Service
Richards entered military service on June 4, 1917, when he enlisted in the New York National Guard in New York City. He was subsequently mustered into federal service and assigned to units connected with the Army’s expanding logistical and aviation support structure during World War I.
His early service included duty with the Quartermaster Detachment at Camp Wadsworth, South Carolina, a major training center for troops preparing for overseas service. He was later assigned to the 501st Aero Squadron, part of the Army’s aviation support units within the American Expeditionary Forces.
Aero Squadrons were responsible for critical support functions, including aircraft maintenance, supply, and logistical coordination for aerial operations. These units were essential to the development and effectiveness of the Army Air Service during the war.
During his service, Richards advanced to the rank of Sergeant, reflecting increasing responsibility within his unit. There is no clear record of overseas deployment, suggesting that his service may have remained stateside in support roles.
He was honorably discharged on January 20, 1919.
Life After Service
Following his military service, Richards built a life in Rye, where he worked for many years as a plumber and later operated his own business in plumbing and heating. Census records from 1930 and 1940 show him as self-employed, reflecting both the independence and challenges of running a small business during the interwar and Great Depression years.
He married Irene Richards, and the couple made their home in Rye for many years, including at Garden Drive. Despite periods of economic difficulty, he maintained steady work in his trade and remained part of the local community.
Harold B. Richards died on February 7, 1954, at his home in Rye at the age of 64. Funeral services were held in Harrison, New York, followed by cremation at Ferncliff Crematory.
At the time of his death, he was survived by his sisters, Mrs. W. J. Keeler of Rye and Mrs. M. S. Williams of Hawthorne.