Borough Green near Wrotham

[Melbell]

Hello

I understand that Borough Green near Wrotham was a tiny place in the early 19th century.  Can anyone suggest why an ex-soldier with no (apparent) connections should go to live and die there in the 1840s?  He was paralysed, and lodging with an ag. lab. and his wife.  I suppose he used his army pension to pay them to look after him?  I am wondering whether there was a hospital or similar for veterans in the vicinity?

He came from outside Kent and, although he gave Wrotham as his residence on discharge in 1813, was living elsewhere very soon afterwards and was certainly not living there before at least 1828.  (Of course, he may have had some connection with the place which it will be impossible for me to discover. )

Melbell

[Milliepede]

I would have a look into who he was lodging with in case they were relations.  Also have you got his death?  The informant might help.

What were the names/ages of the people? 

[Melbell]

Thanks Milliepede

Yes, that's the first thing I did, but can find no connections.  Very common name too - Richard and Ann Williams nee Martin.

As it's near Chatham, I thought there might be some military reason, that's all.

Melbell

[hanes teulu]

He came from outside Kent ....

If I have the right gentleman on the '41 Census, it indicates he was born in Kent (ie. "Whether born in same County" answered "Y").

[Melbell]

Yes, hanes teulu, he was born in Kent, but his family was removed to his father's place of settlement in Sussex when he was a toddler.

Thanks for pointing out the apparent discrepancy though, and for your interest. (We must keep on our toes at all times!).

Melbell