An Interview with Maire watson
Francesca Particelli
Preface
In honoring my beloved grandmother’s remarkable journey spanning nine decades of life, motherhood, and grandmotherhood, I am compelled to reflect upon the profound adventures and invaluable wisdom she has generously shared. Throughout our time together, I have been privileged to witness the tapestry of her life, woven with threads of ambition and compassion. Her story is not merely one of passage through time but a testament to resilience, love, and the boundless capacity of the human spirit. As I embark on this endeavor to immortalize her legacy, I am reminded of the depth of her impact and the richness of her teachings, which continue to guide and inspire me.
What is your name?
My name is Maire Isabel Watson. And my first name, Maire, is spelled M A I R E. There's an acute accent over the a because it's Irish Gaelic.
Bill is my brother who currently lives in Brisbaine, Australia.
Bill
Could you describe what was life when you were born?
I was born in 1932 in Hammersmith, in what is now Queen Charlotte’s Hospital., and during my childhood in Chingford, Essex, North London, we had electricity. However, when I was seven, my family relocated to North Devon. Downstairs, we relied on gas lighting, while upstairs we used candles. In the bathroom, we had a wallmounted lamp because there was no electricity. This move occurred in 1938, just before the outbreak of the Second World War in 1939. Consequently, many young tradesmen either volunteered or were conscripted for the war effort, impacting the availability of skilled labor.
What was your former military service?
I enlisted in the Women’s Royal Naval Service, known as the Wrens, on February 3, 1953, the same year as the late Queen’s coronation. Within the service, I belonged to the supply and Secretariat branch, although my duties didn’t involve handling stores. Instead, I worked in the pay office, managing the accounts for ratings and overseeing what was referred to as the ship’s company accounts. Despite being stationed on shore, our unit was still referred to as the ship’s company.
Did you travel to different countries during your service?
I was nearly 21 years old when I joined the Wrens. Within a year, I was assigned to Malta in a similar role, but stationed at what we referred to as the base supply office, known as HMS Phoenicia, as all shore establishments were designated with the title HMS. I found the experience quite enjoyable.
Were you in a relationship during your time in the WRNS?
I had a few admirers, but one stood out. It was my future husband. From the moment he laid eyes on me, he told his friend, “I’m going to marry her,” and indeed he did. Bless him, he followed through on his word and married me. I was thrilled, and he was quite the romantic. Despite him being three years younger than me, it never seemed to have any impact on our relationship, not in the slightest, both in our romantic life and beyond.
James
What was James’s former Royal Navy title, and how long did he serve?
Yes, he enlisted in the Navy on February 6, 1952, the day the king passed away. He served until his retirement in 1987, accumulating 35 years in the Royal Navy. Starting as a young stores accountant at the age of 17 and a half, he progressed to retire as a lieutenant commander, serving as a supply officer.
What inspired your children’s names, and what do those names mean to you?
My husband, being a Geordie, had a tradition of naming sons James or William, but he always admired my name. Our eldest daughter, Maire initially caused some confusion, but we grew accustomed to it. Following a seven-year gap, Josephine arrived, bringing us great joy. Two years after Josephine, Hilary, your beloved mother, was born. Then, two and a half years later, Elizabeth completed our family as our youngest.
Did you enjoy being a mom?
I thoroughly enjoyed caring for my children, although managing on a lower service pay in the 1980s presented challenges compared to salaries outside the military. Despite the financial constraints, I dedicated myself to homemaking while my husband served. Waitrose was a godsend, offering plenty of affordable cuts and items not commonly found on shelves today. I took pleasure in crafting clothes for my children, drawing inspiration from fashion trends at Marks and Spencer’s, then browsing pattern books at department stores before selecting fabrics at the market. It was a fulfilling experience, particularly with five children to care for. As they grew older, I allowed my eldest two to choose ready-made clothes, but I still tailored suits for James and crafted outfits for two weddings using marvelous patterns that were readily available at the time.
Where have you lived since retiring from service?
Initially, we resided in the family home in Gosport. However, when my daughter, whose husband worked in avionics for British Airways, suggested we purchase a nearby house, it was my son who ended up buying it. Relocating was a decision I later regretted, as it meant leaving behind dear friends in Gosport. After experiencing a transient ischemic attack (TIA), my son, concerned for my well-being, suggested I move to Sesak’s flats, where I could maintain independence yet receive necessary support. This transition not only aided my health but also contributed to the nursing facilities available. Glamis Court, where I currently reside, provides centrally heated accommodations and comprehensive care services, easing concerns about winter and ensuring comfort for residents.
Do any of your relatives, visit you often at Glamis Court?
Yes, indeed, they do. My children are scattered far and wide. My eldest resides in Scotland, where she works in psychiatric nursing for the NHS. Jo, my second daughter, is based at the Forest School. She holds a degree in Business Management from Cardiff, and later pursued another degree in preschool education at Winchester. Currently, she’s in the New Forest, involved in what they call a forest school, where children spend much of their time outdoors. Then, of course, there’s your dear mom, who resides in Milan.
Why do you prefer keeping notes of things?
Oh, I must remind myself more often. Usually, I forget to bring them down, so I’ve resorted to sticking them on the side of the television. Since experiencing this transient ischemic attack (TIA) and nearing 92, my memory isn’t as sharp as it once was, even though these items are quite crucial.
They certainly are important, especially when you visited me for Easter. I do prefer things to be organized, despite my tendency towards disorganization. Last Sunday’s Easter tea was delightful. Oh, and I absolutely adore that shank!
What message would you share with those curious about you?
It’s quite remarkable, really. When I reflect on my life as a military spouse and my first love, who was half-Russian with a mother from Belarus, the stories are extraordinary. His mother, a lovely soul, shared with us the tragic loss of her relatives at the hands of the Bolsheviks. Indeed, it’s heartbreaking. Reflecting on my experiences, from living in Malta to being stationed in Bahrain, and even the challenges I faced with my health during the birth of my last child, Elizabeth, I realize how eventful my life has been.
“On the 1st of May is my 92nd Birthday”
God bless you AML xxxx
