Question

[no1ladyann]

My grand father, Alexander Patterson was in Carlisle Cumberland in the 1891 Census. He is said to be in the army and he is listed as a Bandsman, can anyone give me any idea as to his regiment? In 1901 Census he is in London and listed as an Overseer of Telegraph Managers. I do not think he is in the service then. I believe his father was also in the Army as Alexander was born in Madras, East India.

Would appreciate any feed back,
Thanks,
Ann:)

[Jan1954]

Hello Ann,

I have had a look at the census page and it looks as though Alexander was a Bandmaster, rather than just a Bandsman. This means that he was a Warrant Officer, rather than ordinary ranks.

Whilst I am unable to help with the regiment, Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bandmaster) has some information about Bandmasters that may help give some context.

Do you have a copy of his marriage certificate? This may give a clue.

[no1ladyann]

Hi Jan,

Thanks for the info...My sight is not the best and the writing sometimes is difficult to read. I will take your advice and look in Wikipedia. I have sent for a copy of a marriage certificate that might be his. I think he married a Harriet Barlow...I searched and did find a reference to a marriage between Alexander Patterson and a Harriet Barlow. The oldest son, also Alexander has a middle name of Barlow, I thought maybe they used her maiden name...keep your fingers crossed that I made a good guess. Fun isn't it, trying to find the pieces of a jigsaw that are scattered from here to Kingdom Come.

Thanks again,
Ann|hug|

[Jan1954]

Ooh! Middle name the same as the mother's maiden name? A distinct possibility!

Let us know how you get on! Fingers crossed! http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee187/Jan_07/crossedfingers.png