Introduction
Francis Henry Burrows was an Irish soldier who served with the 63rd Foot Regiment and attained the rank of sergeant. In 1869, he married Susan Maria Purchase of Hardington. After lengthy service with his regiment, including time spent in India, Francis retired in 1881 and returned to Northern Ireland. His wife, Susan, maintained a connection with Hardington until at least 1882, when their son, Henry, was baptised at Hardington church.
Birth
Francis Henry Burrows was born at Lisburn in Antrim in about 1839.
Marriage
On 27 February 1869, Francis Henry Burrows, then a corporal in the 63rd Regiment of Foot, married Susan Maria Purchase, the daughter of Thomas and Grace Purchase of Hardington. The wedding took place at St Mark, Kennington, and they both gave their address as Clapham Road.[1]
Children
At the time of their marriage, they already had a daughter, Maria Grace, who was probably born at Hardington. Her birth was registered in the Yeovil district in the first quarter of 1867 under the name “Burrows”, and she was baptised at Hardington on 7 April 1867 as if her parents were married. It is likely that Francis made Susan pregnant before being posted overseas, which delayed their marriage.
Their second child, Susan Juvernar, was baptised at Hardington on August 28, 1870, and their fifth child, Henry Thomas, was baptised there on January 15, 1882.
Two children were born in India: Susan Maria in about 1875 and Annie in about 1878.
Two children were born in Antrim: Francis Henry in about 1885 and Florence in about 1886.
Post-army life
In June 1881, Francis applied for a pension while living at or near Yeovil. At that time, he was a sergeant with the 63rd Foot, aged 41, worn out by service and climate.[2]
After retiring from the army, Francis and his family moved to Antrim.
By March 1911, Francis and Susan lived at 17 Peveril Street, Cromac, Antrim. In April 1911, they lived at 71 Rodin Street, Antrim.
Death
Henry died on 28 November 1912; Susan died on 6 December 1919.
References
[1] The witnesses were Henry Hart and Sarah Ann Phipps.
[2] Royal Hospital Chelsea Pensioner Admissions and Discharges, 1715-1925.
