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England (Counties as in 1851-1901) => England => Yorkshire (West Riding) => Topic started by: SooCatt on Tuesday 04 October 05 11:11 BST (UK)

Title: Private Militia Man
Post by: SooCatt on Tuesday 04 October 05 11:11 BST (UK)

Hi everyone

On the 1881 cencus in Hunslet, Leeds one of my husband's ancestors gives his occupation as 'coal mine labourer and private militia man'.

Is there somewhere I can find out more?  Since he appeares to have employment in the coal mine it would suggest that this was some kind of part time thing.  Was this a kind of Territorial Army of it's day?

Forgive my ignorance - military history in all its forms is a complete mystery to me.   :-[

Susan

Title: Re: Private Militia Man
Post by: Aspire on Wednesday 05 October 05 19:27 BST (UK)

The 1880s version of the Territorials were the Rifle Volunteers, before that, the Yeomanry; try looking on Google for "West Yorks Volunteers" or similar and you should find the units recruiting in and around the area  thatn you're interested in.

Title: Re: Private Militia Man
Post by: SooCatt on Thursday 06 October 05 15:00 BST (UK)

Thanks for that 'Inspire'

I found a few bits of info.

Susan