I recently discovered that my Great (x3) Grandfather, Samuel Hayes, served in the 47th Regiment of Foot from 5 December 1808 thru December 1832. Medal rolls indicate he served in 2/47th during the Peninsula War, with entitlement to the MGSM with Vittoria and San Sebastian clasps. The lack of the Barrosa clasp suggests he was in one of the battalion/centre companies.
I'm heading to Kew on 2 Oct to dig through the 2/47th muster rolls. I also have a number of books on order including Harley's "Veteran", "The Spanish Ulcer: a History of the Peninsular War", "A Commanding Presence: Wellington in the Peninsula 1808-1814", "Wellington and the Siege of San Sebastian 1813", "Vittoria 1813", Wylly's "Loyal North Lancashire Regiment", and others that cover the First Anglo-Burmese War.
I'm interested in finding other primary sources that might shed more light on the locations and travels Samuel undertook while in service. For example, are there any records of the vessels that transported the 2/47th to Gibraltar, Cadiz etc.?
Any pointers to sources (or additional books that would be of use) would be very much appreciated as I dig into this previously-unknown aspect of my family history.
Mark after the disbanding of the battalion on the 24th Oct 1814. Many of the men were transferred to the 1st Batt in India. My Ancestor served with the 2/47 from Feb 1812-1814. He was discharged on the 24th Oct 14. I believe due to being wounded at San Sebastian. 109 days in regimental hospital. He re-enlisted into the 40th foot.
Many of the recruits were recruited by depots such as Hull depot. My ancestor was recruited in Tyrone. He then was moved to Liverpool & then to Hull Depot. From Hull to Hilsea, then Portugal. Hull Depot Musters have all different regiments inside. Tilbury Depot has the men of the 2/47 in 1814 being transferred to India.