soldier's families c1810

[avrilw]

Hello
I'm researching a soldier in the 6th Battalion Royal Artillery in 1800-1815.
During this time he and his wife had two children that I know of. One born South America 1807 and the other born in Ireland 1812 ( at least that's what they told the census man).
A old family letter says there were three other brothers which we can't yet identify.
Just how many children might a soldier be allowed to take with him on his travels? The soldier's army record says he was a private. I can't see the army allowing 5 or 6 children per man.
If a soldier's wife did not accompany him on his travels, how did the family live in the meantime?  On the parish or would the army provide? Can anyone suggest a little light reading on the matter?  Many thanks, Avril

[jim1]

Overseas postings could last a number of years so plenty of time for more children.
Around 10% of men were allowed to take wives drawn by lot.
Those that stayed at home would live on money deducted from the husband's pay.

[avrilw]

thank you Jim

sounds like a hard life

Avril

[jim1]

There's a book about Army wives (commonly called camp followers) & their lives.

[Jebber]

It was very tough for the few wives who were allowed to accompany their husband. Families usually lived in a curtained off corner of the men’s barrack room, the wife was expected to wash and sew for the other men to earn their keep.

[jim1]

Army wives (Barrack women) were considered to be "on the strength" of the Regt. & so subject to Army rules which included keeping the barrack room clean & catering for the single soldier.

[avrilw]

Thanks

I have some reading to do


Avril