Attestation

[Magrat]

Hi,

I expect this is a silly question but when my great grandfather signed up to join the East Kent Regiment (the buffs) in November 1888 his answer to the question 'Are you Married' was no.
Why would be deny being married? He was not only married but had a six month old daughter.  Would he have been turned down if he was married?

Thank you for any comments.

Cheers
Magrat

[km1971]

By 1888 men had to gain permission to marry. For a Private only about one man in 25 could go on the married roll. Once on the roll the family could travel with the husband. Preference would also be given to men who had served 6-7 years and were of good conduct. By WW1 they also had to have £5 in a post office savings account. The wife also had to provide a reference.

He may have thought it would reduce the chances of him being accepted, and was planning to 'find' her later. While in the army he could send her money. He may only have intended to serve for 7 years with the remaining 5 years in the army reserve. The front page of his attestation will say what period he was signing for.

Ken

[Magrat]

Thank you for that.  Sorry I took so long to reply but I am away for a few days.

Thanks again.

Magrat