In 1854 the British army was sorely in need of new men due
to troop losses in the Crimean War. Most
army recruits could expect to serve for life. Life usually meant 21 years
unless death or disability came first. In theory, it was also possible to buy a
discharge but far beyond the means of most soldiers. In times of war, however,
recruits could be signed on for limited engagements.
The war in the Crimea must have been sufficient for new
recruits to have been given short terms of service. Not only George Welch, but
a number of men who were discharged with him, had served for ten years when
they were released from the British army. But, lucky for them, or at least
George, their presence was not required in the Crimea, British troops were
needed in many other places.
Initially taken on by the 2nd battalion of the 60th
Rifles, in 1855 George was transferred to the newly formed 3rd
battalion of the 60th Rifles in Ireland. No doubt it was prudent to
have a significant British military presence in the Emerald Isle. Not only were
Irish troops away fighting in the Crimea, but the Irish were fractious at the
best of times and the mid-nineteenth century was not the best times in Ireland.
The Irish Famine had led to the Young Ireland rebellion in 1848.
They made their presence known if the list of marches for
1857 are any indication.
Dublin – Glouchester and back June 25 – 4 July
Dublin – Ashlove and back 154 m July 2 – July 4
Jersey – Dublin July
3 – July 7
Hytle – Dublin July
9 – July 11
Dublin – Carragh and back 52m July 11 – July 11
Jersey – Portsmouth*
The green-clad 60th Rifles marching in Ireland
Sources
History
Ireland http://www.historyireland.com/18th-19th-century-history/ireland-and-the-crimean-war-1854-6/
National
Archives film WO 12/7012 60th Foot 3rd Battalion General
Muster Books and Pay Lists*
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