Citadel Barracks, Dover

[Maddie]

Hi

I have just discovered an ancestor of mine, Stephen Hester, was stationed at the Citadel Barracks, Dover in 1871. He was a private in the 6th Regiment.

Could any one tell me which Regiment this was & also if they would have been abroad in 1881 as I can't find him on the census.

Any help is greatly appreciated.

Regards
Maddie

[M.T.H]

Hi Maddie,

The 6th regiment of foot became the Royal Warwickshire Regiment in 1881.

There was a 1st and 2nd battalion of the regiment.

In 1881 the 1st battalion were in England, the 2nd battalion (in 1881) were stationed at Jubbulpore in India and returned to England (Chatham) in 1896 (via Ceylon in 1891)

So your man could have been in the 2nd battalion.


Mick

[Maddie]

Thank you for your answer Mick.

Can you tell me if it's possible that he could have returned from India after 1881 but before 1884. I have found what I think is his marriage, that took place in Cambridge in 1884.

Sorry to be a pain, I'm just trying to establish that I have the correct man.

Many thanks
Maddie

[suey]

Hi Maddie, I'd say you have the right man.  I looked through the census yesterday, did'nt post because it was'nt answering your question but this looks like him in 1891 - the surname is not that common and I could'nt see anyone else under variations that would fit.

1891 RG12/1281  Folio 105  page 12
25 Stour End Cambs.
Stephen Hester 48 ag lab born Oxen Nuffield
Pheobe wife 44 born Stour cum Lucy
Alfred son 5
Charles son 4
William son 2

Marriage July Qtr 1884 Chesterton to Phebe Manning.

Any surviving military record is going to be at National Archives Kew

Suey

[Maddie]

Hi Suey

Yes, that's the one I'm chasing. Thank you, I reckon I can confirm that's him.

I had found them on the 1891 index so thank you for the info, it's much appreciated.

One day I'll get his military record. !!!

Thanks again

Regards
Maddie

[M.T.H]

Can you tell me if it's possible that he could have returned from India after 1881 but before 1884. I have found what I think is his marriage, that took place in Cambridge in 1884.

Hi Maddie,

It's possible, but I think it unlikely if he was still in the army. A soldier would have to seek the permission of his Commanding Officer in order to get married.The army frowned upon marriage and it was usually discouraged,especially on overseas service.On average,they allowed 6 wives per 100 men.

I think he probably left the army before he married,but I could be wrong!

Mick

[harribobs]

Mick

I thought the 6 wives to 100 men was the number allowed to travel abroad with the regiment?

chris

[M.T.H]

I think you're right Chris!

I reckon I've got my wires crossed!

The marriage cert should answer the question as his occuptation will be noted.

Mick

[harribobs]

I reckon I've got my wires crossed!

I know the feeling!!