Robert Prentice was born at West Hartlepool on January 24th, 1884, and baptised at St.James' Church on February 24th. His parents, William Henry (a Seaman), and Mary Prentice, were living in Lower Reed Street, West Hartlepool, at this time.
The 1901 Census shows William (now a Master Mariner), and Mary living at No.94, Sandringham Road, West Hartlepool, with their children William H. (aged 19, Engine Minder at a local Engine works), Robert (17, Apprentice Engineer), Thomas (14, Telegraph Messenger), Frederick (13), Albert (10), Evelyn (6), Clifford (4), and Gordon (1).
On July 26th, 1909, Robert (now listed as a Marine Engineer), married Elizabeth Lord at St. Paul's Church, West Hartlepool, their address being given as No.16, Tankerville Street, West Hartlepool.
The 1911 Census records Robert away at sea, and Elizabeth living at No.83, Sheriff Street, West Hartlepool. At the time of Robert's loss in 1916, their address is given as No.16, Topcliffe Street, West Hartlepool.
