Tpr. CH Meares (152), Natal Mounted Rifles - KIA Isandhlwana

Firstly, a massive thank you to those generous experts who have helped with information on my great great grandfather in my other postings. This has added both invaluable pieces to the jigsaw as well as opened new lines of enquiry.

One such line of enquiry (opened by Frank Allewell) led me to the PMB archive and a researcher who sent me copies of various documents held there. Among these was a letter from CH Meares, a (successful) application in fact for employment as constable and messenger. Pre-NMR. In this letter, a revelation! He references his discharge from "Her Majesty's Royal Artillery". Also included; a supporting note stating "Conduct 'Very Good' In Possession of two good conduct badges."

(Side note. To those who helped me with my mystery Hussar photograph taken after 1881 - who coincidentally had two good conduct stripes - I will confess to a moments wavering of faith...! )  

Firstly, a request: Where would I be likely to find attestation details for the Royal Artillery? Any pointers would be useful, as well as any further information you may have on Tpr CH Meares.

Secondly, an offer: If any members have a particular interest in the men as individuals, the NMR, or are researching from this from that point of view, and would like copies of any of the documents I have, please don't hesitate to ask. Some documents include content from Major Dartnell, referencing his enquiry and efforts to have the pensions of the two widows, White and Meares, paid out. It took a pitifully long time...

Meares
I think you mean NMP - Natal Mounted Police - not Rifles.

The Natal Mounted Rifles was a later amalgamation of regiments that had served in the Zulu War.

Brett

Hello,
This is the information I have on the above,
Charles Henry Meares, Born 1839, place unknown, enlisted in the NMP, service number 152 on the 8/11/1876 and employed as a shoemaker to the Corps.
Married Susan, nee Hellmand and had four children aged 9, 7, 5 and 8 months at the time of his demise. His next of kin claimed £20.19s.3d in respect of loss of kit at the battle site, which was awarded in full.The Select Committee recommended an annuity of £30 to the widow and £24 to the children, with a gratuity of £330 to be awarded should the annuity not be granted. The circumstances being given that the widow was destitute of means, having trying to keep a boarding house and having failed and was now in domestic service. Hopes this helps.
regards Ells

Julian Whybra wrote:

Meares
I think you mean NMP - Natal Mounted Police - not Rifles.

I did indeed. Thanks!

Ells wrote:

Hello,
This is the information I have on the above,
Charles Henry Meares, Born 1839, place unknown, enlisted in the NMP, service number 152 on the 8/11/1876 and employed as a shoemaker to the Corps.
Married Susan, nee Hellmand and had four children aged 9, 7, 5 and 8 months at the time of his demise. His next of kin claimed £20.19s.3d in respect of loss of kit at the battle site, which was awarded in full.The Select Committee recommended an annuity of £30 to the widow and £24 to the children, with a gratuity of £330 to be awarded should the annuity not be granted. The circumstances being given that the widow was destitute of means, having trying to keep a boarding house and having failed and was now in domestic service. Hopes this helps.
regards Ells

Thanks very much Ells! Much appreciated.

I now have a copy of a letter from NMP Commander Major Dartnell dated 15 May 1880 following up on behalf of the widows Meares and White for these payments, nearly a year and a half after the battle! He mentions their previous applications... One can only imagine the financial hardship endured.

Thanks again