Chelsea Pensioner

[milliemoo]

Hi All

I have just found a relation   Edward Birch abt 1790 - abt 1873  Stafford

In the 1851 Census he is down as a Chelsea Pensioner

Is there any way I can find out anything about this

I would be grateful for any help or information

Thanks
Sue

[km1971]

Hi Sue

If you search for Edward Birch on the NA Catalogue, using WO for the series code, the top one might fit - http://www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/catalogue/search.asp

Men would enlist for life then, so he may have been injured or no longer required after the Peninsular War ended.

The reference starting WO97 is a microfilm in Kew. You can request a quote for them to send you copies but they have been dragging their feet, as they used to charge only 40p a page plus postage. You may have to go yourself or use a researcher - they have lists. Or Findmypast will be putting pre WW1 records online 'by 2011'.

You also have to realise that records to other Edward Birches have been lost. The army also did not record family history information then.

http://www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/militaryhistory/army/step4.htm

The medal roll for the Peninsular War shows a Edward Birch awarded a Military General Service medal with clasps for Vittoria (21 June 1813) and Orthes (27 February 1814). The medal was not authorised until 1847 and men had to be alive then to claim it.

http://www.northeastmedals.co.uk/britishguide/militarygeneralservice1793_1814.htm

I would try to find a local newspaper at the time of his death. It may give details of his service.

Ken

[milliemoo]

Hi Ken

Thank you so much for your help and guidance

I found Edwards discharge, but if it is him I may never know unless I can get down to Kew, but at least you have given me a start.

Sue