Collection in two parts: items relating to the life and career of Frederick Semple (1 folder) and items largely relating to the WRNS service of Assistant Principal Enid Semple Briggs, 1918-1919, along with some of Frederick's possessions. Including a photograph album, a journal kept at Crystal Palace OT Depot in April-May 1918, a booklet on the WRNS in the First World War entitled 'Never at Sea', and a book of autographs and newspaper cuttings of naval celebrities from the same period. Also a Royal Humane Society citation, newspaper cuttings and a diary relating to Commander Frederick Semple (1833-1871).

Administrative / biographical background
Enid Semple Briggs was born in Leeds and attended Wycombe Abbey School in Buckinghamshire. She applied for an appointment in the Women's Royal Naval Service (WRNS) and attended Crystal Palace Officer Training Depot between April and May 1918. She then served with the rank of assistant principal as an observer at Dumpton Gap Observation Station, near Broadstairs in Kent, until January 1919.