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My maternal great-grandfather was George Denis Carroll, who joined the British army in Westmeath in 1870. I have a copy of his signing up papers. He was born about 1849. His father was Michael Carroll.

Having joined, the 70th Infantry Regiment, he was promptly sent to India, where he left the army, married and died in 1900.

I understand that the army recruiting location was Mullingar. I am assuming that George and Michael lived in Westmeath because George joined up there.

This is the total extent of my knowledge of my ancestor's Irish background. It is not much, but I would really appreciate any assistance in learning more about them

Wednesday 26th Dec 2012, 06:09PM

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  • Hi,

     

    Thank you for your message.

     

    One of the first places where you should look is probably the UK National Archives. This is where the UK millitary records are kept. If you can find George's record  you may be able to find out more information on him, and maybe even an exact place of origin. Here is the link for the UK National Archives:

    http://www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/records/looking-for-person/?source=404

     

    Perhaps you could also check the Griffith Valuation. This is a land recordd that was carried out in Ireland between 1848 and 1864. If you can find record of a Michael Carroll in Mullingar, at least it will be confirmation that they came from there. Here is the link:

    http://askaboutireland.ie/griffith-valuation/index.xml

     

    He may also be in the 1901 and 1911 census records, which you can search here: http://www.census.nationalarchives.ie/search/

     

    You could also try getting in contact with the Westmeath County Library as they may have some information on the local area that can help you. Here is the link to their local studies page:

    http://www.westmeathcoco.ie/en/ourservices/tourismartsrecreation/libraryservice/localstudies/

     

    Finally, it may be an idea to get in contact with the heritage centre in Westmeath-however, a fee may apply for their services. Here are their contact details:

    Dun na Si Heritage Centre,

    Knockdomney,

    Moate,

    Co . Westmeath

    Phone: (090) 648 1183    Email: dunnasimoate@eircom.net

     

    I hope that this helps you in your search for information on George. If you come across any new information remember to  post it, as the more information you post, the more likely it is that one of our volunteers will be able to advise or assist you.

     

    Kind regards,

     

    Genealogy Support

    Friday 15th Feb 2013, 11:42AM

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