Horatio Nelson Cave (known as Nelson) was born on 25 January 1886, son of Henry and Emma Cave of 6 Caer Street, Swansea. He was baptized on 31st March 1886 at St Marys, Swansea. At that time, his father Henry gave his occupation as an Engraver.

In the 1891 Census, the family had moved to the Trafalgar Hotel, 9 Oystermouth Rd. Henry and Emma were living there with 6 children, Rose (17yo), Gwennie (15), Thomas (12), Maud (11), Nelson (5) and Daisy (3). Henry's age is given as 52 and his occupation was Licensed Victualler.

By 1901, the family had moved again and were living at the Bay View Hotel, St Helens Rd, Swansea. Henry was listed as the publican and Nelson, by this time 15 years old, was listed as an Apprentice Brass Plate Engraver.

In 1911, Henry and Emma were living at the York Hotel, 1 Fisher Street along with Thomas (32) and Nelson (25). At that time, all 3 men were working as Engravers on Metal.

Nelson married Mabel Harrison on 24th March 1919 at St Marys, Swansea and in June 1920, their son Kenneth was born.

In the 1939 Register, Nelson, Mabel and Kenneth were living at 7 Montpeilier Terrace along with Nelson's brother Thomas. Once again, Nelson is listed as an engraver - hand and machine.

Nelson passed away on 15 February 1972 at the age of 86.

Nelson Cave’s service record has not survived and it has not been possible to find any other official records that relate to his service.

However, two family photographs of Nelson in uniform still exist, one of which gives his service number (please see the Image Library) and he is included in the December 1914 photograph of the early war-time recruits.

With this information, it is possible to conclude:

Nelson enlisted in the first wave of war-time recruits, most likely on the 15th September.

He did not serve overseas and was not eligible for any medals, but it does appear he remained part of the Brigade which means he would have either joined the 2nd line Brigade on home service (predominantly in East Anglia) or remained at the depot in Swansea.

Nelson progressed through the ranks and in a later photo he had reached the rank of Sergeant.