49th regiment based at Salford in 1864

[TheBlacksmith]

My wife's ancestor, William Taylor, was married to Isabel Mary Constant at the Cathedral Parish Church, Manchester on April 23rd 1864. His occupation is shown as Private, 49th Regiment, based at the barracks, Salford.

Can anybody tell me what the regiment was doing there at that time, and how I may find out a bit more about his army career?

Many thanks for any help given.

[km1971]

The army included about 120-130 battalions of infantry in this period. About half served at home at any one time, with the rest based around the Empire. At home they moved often - say every 9-12 months - to stop them getting lazy. Apart from training they assisted the 'civil power' as required, backing up the small police force.

Here is the NA's guide to researching 19th Century soldiers - http://www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/records/looking-for-person/britisharmysoldierupto1913.htm

Ken

[TheBlacksmith]

Hi Ken

Many thanks for that info.

Dave

[Maiwand]

Dave

The Regimental Headquarters  were based in Manchester in 1864, with 2 companies based at Weedon. They went to Ireland on the 21st July that year. If you want to have a look at the 49th (Later 1st Royal Berkshire Regiment) go to the Museum Website at www.thewardrobe.org.uk. Once there search the TIMELINE under the 49th, might throw up a few clues, and then under RESEARCH/COLLECTION/UNIT/49th you will see what the Regiment looked like. The museum does not hold individual soldiers records but always worth a try.

Good luck with your research

Cheers

Maiwand

[TheBlacksmith]

That's brilliant! Thank you so much.

Dave