Thanks for this...how do I use the data record? is it at Kew?
You can order this certificate from
https://www.gro.gov.uk using the reference but clicking on 'Overseas Event' first. I don't think you ncan get the £6 .pdf for this.
would it possible for the birth date to be so far out? the 1871 census says abt 1838
He was 'underage' on enlistment in October 1851 & continued so until 16 April 1855 [so 18 in April 1855 - implying birth 16 April 1837]; this 4 years service is not counted in his 20 yrs 291 days. He may have inflated his age....he then had to maintain whatever age he said he was throughout his army career & probably came to believe it himself. Army record says he is 39 yrs 3/12 in 1875. Ellen says she is married in 1881, not widowed.
do you think he has died at this point as he is not on census?
On his army record hit says he is being discharged to an 'institution' in Prestwich, Manchester. So he may be listed under initials in subsequent censuses.
I can't see any of the England births having been registered at the GRO from [freebmd] but Albert & John are also on the Army returns obtainable via GRO as Walter's. Only 1 of these might be necessary to give Ellen's maiden anme. None if this is confirming Thomas' parentage as per your original query but all is part of family history!! Alfred's baptism [on findmypast India baptisms] doesn't state it either.
