Royal Engineers in India

[Trippy]

I have a chap in my tree, who was born in 1870 in India.  His father is listed as a Royal Engineer

I'm I correct in thinking that if he was a Royal Engineer, he would be listed in the British Army, and any service records would be held at the National Archives in Kew?.  Or would I find him listed in the Indian Army, and the records at the British Library?

A confirmation would be great, as I am visiting the BL soon, but I am thinking of extending my visit to include Kew.

Thanks

[gortonboy]

hi,,depends when he left the army....some records are available online....what was his name and year and place of birth,,,,i could have a look..

[Trippy]

Name was Charles Henry Bell, unsure of date of birth or when he left the army. 

Thanks
Gortonboy

[Trippy]

I may have found a death record for him online from the BL, but haven't confirmed this.  The record is dated 1894.

So he's obviously not in the army then

[gortonboy]

i was looking at the chelsea pensioner records,,,,i can access records for men discharged between 1855-1900......there are 24 charles bells....none in the R.E. does this possible death record not give an approx date of birth?

[Trippy]

No unfortunately.

He is listed as a Royal Engineers on the birth certificate in 1870.  But on this death record is says...
Asst surg 1st Class, BOM SMD.

Does this seem likely?, What does the BOM SMD mean?  I'm not sure if this is my man even?

Thanks for your help

[gortonboy]

what is the sons name,,,,did he return to england?

[Trippy]

The son was called Walter Henry Bell, and they didn't return to the UK.

Cheers Trippy

[Trippy]

Thanks for your help, i'm off for the evening, if you have any bright ideas, anything would be appreciated.

Cheers Trippy