Source: Michael Doyle Their Name Liveth For Evermore: The Great War Roll of Honour for Leicestershire and Rutland.
He was the son of John Brewin a framework knitter, born 1858 in Wigston Magna, Leics., and his wife Sarah Ann, born 1858 in Countesthorpe, Leics. Robert Edward was born in 1889 in Wigston Magna, Leics., his siblings were Lily, born 1882, Annie, born 1885 and Graham Thurston Walter J., born 1887, all his siblings were born in Wigston Magna, Leics., in April 1891 the family home was at Moat Street, Wigston Magna, Leics. In March 1901 Robert was residing in the family home at Crown Cottages, Moat Street, Wigston Magna, Leics., together with his parents and siblings, Lily, Annie, Graham, Joseph, born 1893, Bernard, born 1895 and Gwendoline, born 1899, the latter three siblings were all born in Wigston Magna, Leics. In April 1911 Robert was unemployed and was residing in the family home at Moat Street, Wigston Magna, Leics., together with his parents and siblings, Annie, Bernard, Gwendoline and Joseph. On Saturday March 10th 1917 The Leicester Mercury published the following article under the heading. “THE ROLL OF HONOUR” - “LOCAL MEN IN THE CASUALTY LISTS” - The followings local casualties are officially reported. All are Private’s except where otherwise shown:- KILLED. SHERWOOD FORESTERS.- Brewin, 14024 L.-Corpl. R. (Wigston). His younger brother Joseph died of wounds received in action.