3xgreat grandfather from mayo

[buddysmum]

Can any one tell me why someone born in mayo would join the british army and go to pembrokeshire in wales .He never seem to go back to mayo as he died in wales. Was that normal in 1800 hes son was born in wales in 1819. hope someone  can help

[RonnieG]

Hi Buddysmum,

I suspect men joined the army then for pretty much the same reasons that they join now, a sense of adventure, a chance to travel, to learn a skill but mostly for the work.

Job opportunities in Mayo would have been few. If he wasn't the eldest son then there would be very little for him there.

I suspect he stayed in Wales because he fell in love and again there was little to return to in Mayo.

RonnieG

[buddysmum]

thanks Ronnie G all i know is his wife also came from mayo  I didnt know if it was normal to join another countrys army. they stayed in wales and had 2 sons that must of been fun in that house  irish parents and welsh sons . thanks again

[RonnieG]

Hi Buddysmum,

You have to bear in mind that following the "Act of Union 1801" Ireland was to all intents and purposes a part of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland, so strictly speaking, he would have been joining "his own country's army."

As you are no doubt aware, a lot of water has been passed under the bridge since then but that was the way it was back then.

Incidentally a British Soldier posting in Ireland up until 1921 was regarded officially as a "Home Posting"on his record.

RonnieG

[buddysmum]

thanks a lot Ronnie G that has cleared up a lot for me I now understand why he was here . I forgot that then we were all together should have worked that out .           thanks for your help very gratefull .

[mazbonks]

My GGrandfather was also in the 'British' army at that time.  Just to let you know that if you know the regiment he was in all the army records are held in The National Archives in Kew.  I found my GGF records on the first visit and it told me all about him from the age of 14 until his death at 40, including a list of his children DOB and his medical history, description and all his postings.
Maz