Martin Sullivan was born in Tulla, County Clare, a small village of 500-600 people. We believe the year of his birth was 1841, but unfortunately, parish records are sparse and we don't have exact confirmation of that date. We do, however, know that his father was called Owen, who was a cooper by trade - making beer barrels.
Martin enlisted in the army (23rd Regiment) at Aldershot on the 8th September 1856. He was 5 feet 2 inches tall with "lush" complexion, grey eyes, light brown hair. He served in Britain from 12/9/56 to 19/6/57. On the 20th June 1857 he went to India where he served until 9th November 1869. He was home then from 10th November 1869. His total service with the Royal Welch Fusiliers: 42 years. Campaigns: Indian Mutiny (1867-8); present at the relief and capture of Lucknow.
Medals: Indian Mutiny Medal and Clasp for Relief of Lucknow.
The description of his character on being discharged was as follows:
His conduct has been latterly good and he is in possession of 4 Good Conduct Badges.
He had four brief visits to the army gaol; reasons for two occasions are given:
1) absent from band when returning from party
2) habitual drunkeness...!!!
Married life seems to have settled him though, as it is after his marriage to Fanny Williams that he begins to earn his good conduct badges.
Their first two children were born in Ireland.
Details on Marriage Certificate:
1875 Marriage solemnized at the parish church in the parish of St. Luke in the City of Cork.
No. 56
When Married: 18th Dec 1875
Name and Surname: Martin Sullivan and Frances Williams
Age: Full - Full
Condition: Bachelor - Spinster
Rank or Profession: Private 23rd Regt - Servant
Residence at the Time of Marriage: Cork Military Barracks - BCShaw Heath Stockport
Father's Name and Surname: Owen Sullivan - Henry Williams
Rank or Profession of Father - Cooper - Herdsman
Married in the parish church of St. Luke according to the Rites and Ceremonies of the Church of Ireland by licence by me, Charles Ferguson.
Solemnized in the presence of us, Adam Thomas Meadham (check) - John L Robertson
