Born in Halifax, Thomas was the son of Thomas and Susan Bartlow (Mason). He was a former active member of the Halifax Rifles, obtaining the rank of Staff-Sergeant, having served garrison defense during the Great War. Thomas worked for the Halifax Electric Tramway Company for many years and in his later years also worked as a steamship checker for the Canadian National Railway at Pier 2
The family was not nearly as devastated as some families in the Halifax Explosion, but their windows were smashed out of their home on Edward Street. The family moved to a refuge camp at the Halifax Commons, consisting of canvas military tents, because of the threat of fires in the city and more explosions. It was said to be very cold and windy according to Blanche Bartlow.
Thomas could have very well taken an active role in searching for survivors and recovering the dead. The 63rd Battalion (Halifax Rifles), Thomas being a member at the time, were mobilized after the explosion to help in whatever task was needed.
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