In 1911, the Thomson family were living at Mount Grange, Perth: Father, Alexander (Grocer and Wine Merchant) (49); Mother, Rachel (48); Daughter, Margaret (19); Son, Alexander (16); Daughter, Janet McK. (14); Daughter, Catherine (13); and Daughter, Georgina (9). Also living at this address was Isabella McLaren (General Servant, Domestic) (29).

Perthshire Constitutional, 30th May 1917

“Lance-Corporal A. THOMSON, only son of Mr A. Thomson, merchant, who was killed in action on the 17th inst. was educated at Perth Academy, and was afterwards engaged in business with his father’s firm, Alexander Thomson and Sons, Old High Street, Perth."

"The young soldier had all the natural gifts and training that go to the making of a successful merchant. Possessed of a genial and gentlemanly manner, he was exceptionally well liked by all who came in contact with him, either in business or in a social capacity."

"When the recruiting campaign was entered upon by the Town Council, young Mr Thomson was amongst the first to offer himself for enlistment to the Recruiting Committee and joined the local Territorial Battalion of the Black Watch."

"He was well known in musical circles, and displayed marked ability as a violinist. He will be much missed by all his friends.”

St. Stephen’s United Free Church, Roll of Honour

“ALEXANDER THOMSON, a member of a family that has had a historic connection with St. Stephen’s Church, and son of Mr Alexander Thomson, 5 Marshall Place, for many years Clerk of the Deacons’ Court, was born in Perth, on 20th January, 1895."

"Educated privately and at Perth Academy, he entered his father’s business, but when it was seen that the European War was to be long and serious, he rallied to the colours, and was the first volunteer under the recruiting scheme of the Perth Town Council, being enrolled on 26th January, 1915. He joined the 6th Battalion of the Black Watch, and while in the home country gave service at various stations - Dundee, Inverkeithing, Hawick and Norwich."

"Crossing to France in July, 1916, he was transferred to the Lewis Gun Section of his regiment, and saw much strenuous warfare."

"He had many narrow escapes, but during the battle of the Somme he fell fighting bravely in a fierce engagement that raged round the chemical works near Arras." 

"Of a frank and open nature, and a manly and generous disposition, he was popular with all and made friends everywhere. Being the only son in a large family, his death created a great void in the home.”

At the time of his death Alexander Thomson was 22 years old.