Born in Bridgetown, near Glasgow, Lanarkshire, on the 5th of July 1825.
Enlisted at Armagh for "unlimited service" on the 8th of July 1846.
Age: 18.
Height: 5' 7".
Trade: Factory guider.
Features: Fresh complexion. Grey eyes. Brown hair.
From Private to Corporal: 1st of June 1851.
"Absent" from Hounslow on the 27th of August 1853, and his rank of Corporal superseded.
In Ilford Gaol: 22st-31st of October.
Rejoined the regiment on the 1st of November 1853, when he was tried by a Regimental Court-martial
Imprisoned: 1st of November 1853 — 21st of February 1854. He also forfeited 7 years 50 days by this conviction. [PB, 2013: Was he marked with a "D", like Chapman?]
Desertion and its aftermath
He had deserted with 1070 Edward Chapman, 17th Lancers on 27th of August 1853. Both rejoined the regiment at the same time, when it was noted in mitigation: "The effects of these deserters were not sold, nor were they struck off the strength of the regiment — having been arrested before two months' absence."
"Horse Guards,
8 November 1857,
"Sir, — In reply to your application for the restoration of the services of the man named in the margin [Corporal William Purvis of the 17th Lancers] I have the honour to acquaint you that the same having been favourably entertained by HRH the General Commanding-in-Chief, the same will be submitted to her Majesty the Queen in due course.
I have, &c. &c.
W. A. Forster, DAG.
Officer Commanding the 17th Lancers."
EJB: His former service was restored by War Office Authority dated the 4th of November 1857.
A number of letters were written around the time of his desertion, his conviction, and release from confinement, one of which would suggest that his real name was not "Purvis", but "Thompson". His statement that he was born in Scotland would bear this out, Thompson being a Scottish name. No other information on the court-martial can be obtained.
[PB, 2013: Is it possibly vice versa — that he used Thompson as his alias?].
"Officer Commanding the 17th Lancers, Hounslow.
Horse Guards.
5th November 1853:
"Proceedings of the court-martial are confirmed and returned... The General Commanding-in-Chief has been pleased to remit 9 months of the imprisonment awarded to L/Sergeant [sic] Purvis of the 17th Lancers and to limit it to 168 days. You will also point out to the president of the Court-martial his omission in his not having inscribed the prisoner Purvis's answer to the question whether he objected to the President and/or other members of the Court..."
"To the Paymaster, 17th Lancers, Hounslow.
Horse Guards,
23rd November 1853:
"Sir, Authority to you as Paymaster, in respect of the payment of £1/11/1d. to Cornet and Adjutant Chadwick of the 17th Lancers for travelling expenses in proceeding from Hounslow to Warley Barracks and back for the purpose of obtaining information respecting Wm. Purvis — a deserter from that Corps..."
Further letter, dated the 10th of January 1854:
"Sir, Some further explanation regarding this claim is required, it being understood by the letter from Major Willett, that the escort sent to Warley for William Thompson, alias Purvis, of the 17th Lancers were also able to identify and bring back to Hounslow, James Watson, alias Chapman, 17th Lancers, who was supposed to be serving in the E.I.C's Depot there.
Colonel Lawrenson. 17th Lancers, Hounslow. "
Letter dated the 18th of February 1854, Horse Guards:
"Sir I have the honour to acknowledge you letter of today's date and to acquaint you that the Viscount Hardinge approves of the release of the prisoner named in the margin (868 William Thompson, alias Purvis) under the circumstances outlined in your letter of the above date referred to..
Colonel Lawrenson. 17th Lancers, Hounslow."
[RM: He is mentioned in Morley's memoir The Cause of the Charge at Balaclava (1899) as being one of the letter party to Lord Raglan at Varna.]
I served under Lord Cardigan at Devna and Yenebazaar at the time when disease prevailed to a great extent. During the time I had the honour to be selected as Corporal of a letter party stationed at Varna. The whole of the dispatches of the army were at times conveyed by this party, and I was compelled in consequence of the sickness of the men to ride day and night without any rest to set a good example to the men under my charge and keep out of their minds that too much fatigue would kill them.
Allow me to add that this was Lord Raglan's letter party and that I continually reported at his headquarters to receive the dispatches. The party consisted of myself, and Privates Wm. Purvis, P. Murphy, Burkemore [Berkleman], and H. Gallimore. All these went into hospital with cholera and Gallimore died. Wm. Purvis is still living at 105, Rutter Street, Walsall.
Purvis had his horse shot under him and three ribs broken in the Charge at Balaclava. It is stated by Lummis and Wynn that Purvis was picked up and brought back by a Corporal Chadwick of the 13th Light Dragoons.
EJB: There was a No. 998 Private Thomas Chadwick in the 4th Dragoon Guards, and this was almost certainly the man — not Corporal Chadwick of the 13th Light Dragoons, as has been generally accepted.
Attached to the 6th Dragoon Guards as one of a Letter Party to H.Q. Cavalry Division during June-July of 1855.
From Private to Corporal: 26th of January 1856.
Corporal to Sergeant: 7th of September 1857.
He went a overland to India in 1857 as Sergeant in charge of four rough-riders, embarking on the 10th of October 1857 and landing at Bombay on the 24th of November 1857.
The musters for July-September 1858 show him as being "On Field Service" from September of the period.
In action against the rebels at Zeerapore on the 29th of December 1858 and at Baroda on the 1st of January 1859.
Invalided to England on the 29th of October 1859 and at the Maidstone Depot from the 15th of June 1860.
Promoted to Troop Sergeant Major at the Depot on the 2nd of February 1864.
On the Regimental "married roll" from the 12th of July 1860. The December 1867 list shows his wife as Jane Purvis.
Births registered
Alice Leticia Purvis [daughter], March Quarter 1868, Elham.
William John M Purvis [son], June Quarter 1869, Brentford.
Discharged from Dublin on the 14th of February 1871 upon "Own request, after 24 years' service". He had by then become "Supernumerary" in the regiment and on the Permanent Staff of the Yeomanry Cavalry from the 13th of February 1871.
Served 25 years 25 days. (Seven months of his service was disallowed because of his desertion.)
In Turkey and the Crimea: 2 yearsIn India: 1 year 5 months.
Conduct: "very good". Twice entered in the Regimental Defaulters' book. Once tried by Court-martial.
Aged 43 years 3 months on discharge.
Awarded a pension of 2/- per day.
Entitled to the Crimean medal with clasps for Alma, Balaclava, Inkerman, Sebastopol, and the Turkish medal.
Mutiny medal without clasp.
Awarded the Long Service & Good Conduct medal on the 23rd of August 1871. He was serving in the Yeomanry Cavalry at the time.
His documents confirm the award of these medals but there is no mention of the clasp for Central India which he is shown as wearing on the Mutiny medal in a portrait which is now in the Public Library at Walsall. (See copy in the 17th Lancer file.)
William Purvis's medals
ObjectNumber: WASMG: 1976.0626
Summary: Four silver medals and a badge, awarded to Sergeant Major William Purvis for service in the Crimea and India.
Description:
(1) Good Conduct and Long Service Medal of the British Army: Circular silver medal hung from purple ribbon. Inscribed on reverse "FOR LONG SERVICE AND GOOD CONDUCT".
(2) Crimea Medal: Circular silver medal hung from pale blue ribbon with light yellow edging. Inscribed "CRIMEA" on obverse, and "VICTORIA REGINA 1854" on reverse. There are four bars across the ribbon inscribed "SEBASTOPOL", "INKERMAN", "BALAKLAVA", and "ALMA".
(3) Turkish Medal for the Crimean War: Circular silver medal hung from pink ribbon with green edging. Inscribed with "LA CRIMEA 1855" on obverse and a short inscription in Turkish script on the reverse. The medal was awarded by the Turkish government to British soldiers and sailors who took part in the Crimean War. The accession notes record that it was Sardinian.
(4) Indian Mutiny Medal: Circular silver medal hung from a red and white striped ribbon. Inscribed on obverse of medal "INDIA 1857-1858" and on the reverse "VICTORIA REGINA". Across the bottom of the ribbon is a bar inscribed "CENTRAL INDIA". The Indian Mutiny Medal was awarded by the East India Company, who acted as agents for the British government in India at the time.
(5) Death or Glory badge of the 17th/21st Lancers. William Purvis was born in Bridge Town, Glasgow, in 1828. He joined the 17th Lancers as a Private in 1846. He was promoted to Corporal in 1851, but deserted for three months in 1853, was gaoled for three months from November 1853 to February 1854, forfeiting his seven years service and good conduct pay, and being reduced to Private.
Along with the 17th Lancers he served in the Crimean campaign, and the four bars on his Crimean medal reflect the four major battles he took part in: Alma, Balaclava, Inkerman and Sebastopol.
He was one of the few survivors of the Charge of the Light Brigade in 1854: his horse was shot under him and he suffered three broken ribs when it rolled on top of him, he was knocked unconscious and when he came round was unable to get up, but was able to escape by hanging onto the stirrups of a fellow cavalryman's horse.
Purvis was promoted again after the Crimean campaign, and by November 1857 had achieved the rank of Sergeant, with his former service and good conduct pay restored. He served in India during the Indian Mutiny of 1857-8, for which he was awarded the Indian Mutiny medal.
In February 1864 came his final promotion to Troop Sergeant Major. He was discharged in 1871 and settled in Walsall, becoming a drill instructor with the Staffordshire Yeomanry.
He died in 1899 and is buried in Ryecroft Cemetery, Walsall.
[Source: http://blackcountryhistory.org/collections/getrecord/WASMG_WASMG___1976_0626/
William Purvis's sword, Walsall Museum
Production Date: c.1854
ObjectNumber: WASMG : 1976.0454
Summary:
Cavalry sabre and sheath that belonged to Sergeant Major William Purvis, who was a Private of the 17th Lancers at the Charge of the Light Brigade
Description:
The Charge of the Light Brigade was a disastrous charge of British cavalry led by Lord Cardigan against Russian forces during the Battle of Balaclava on 25th October, 1854, in the Crimean War.
Of the 139 17th Lancers only three officers and 35 men survived the charge, including the 29 year-old Purvis.
He lived for nearly 30 years in Walsall, and died peacefully in 1899, aged 73. He is buried in the town.
[Source: http:/blackcountryhistory.org/collections/getrecord/WASMG_WASMG___1976_0454/ (accessed 17.11.2013). Information about Walsall Museums here.]
Attended the first Balaclava Banquet in 1875.
Member of the Balaclava Commemoration Society in 1877 and 1879.
Signed the Loyal Address to the Queen in 1887.
Present at the Fleet Street offices of T.H. Roberts for the Jubilee celebrations held there in June 1897. (See below)
From the Walsall Free Press, 3rd of July 1897:
"Some time after the Queen's Diamond Jubilee, a representative of the paper had the good fortune to interview Sgt. Major Purvis, who at that time had just returned to Walsall after having been assembled with the other survivors of the Charge at the invitation of the proprietor of "The Illustrated Bits" to watch the grand procession through the streets of London.
The old soldier, on being questioned, said... 'Then we had to greet old friends. I remembered 12th of my old regiment, the 17th Lancers. In my time we served together over twenty years and we got very well acquainted with each other, but there were some there that I had not met with since the Crimea — over 40 years ago.'
I suppose that you talked of the old times.
'Yes, we had no sleep that night, and in that respect I was glad to get back to Walsall again to get a good night's rest. We fought all of our battles over again and contradicted each other all night...'
Asked to give a few details of his Army service the Sergeant Major said that he had joined the Army on the 9th of July 1846. His regiment was the 17th Lancers or the "Death or Glory Boys," and he remained with them 24 years and 44 days. Prior to going out to the Crimea he was with his regiment in Turkey and on the Danube, where the Russians were prevented from entering Turkey. He saw Varna almost burnt down, the Greeks employed by the Russians trying to blow up the ammunition of the British Army which was stored there. Their object was only prevented by the strenuous exertions of the British sailors, who with buckets of water worked at great risk to prevent the flames from spreading.
Embarked for the Crimea, and landing in Eupatoria, marched upwards towards the Alma, and participated in that action on the 20th of September 1854.
Balaclava followed on the 25th of October of that same year and Inkerman on the 5th of November. After the fall of Sebastopol he returned to England in 1856, but was soon engaged on active service again as he went out on the overland route through Egypt to India, under the command of Sir William Gordon. The Mutiny had broken out and the object of Sir William's expedition was to purchase horses and have them ready for the main group of the regiment which was travelling by the longer sea route. In India some very rough service was engaged in for eighteen months.
'I suppose the procession was especially attractive to you and your companions,' asked the Pressman.
'Yes; the military part of the programme was grand in the extreme. I was very pleased to see my old regiment, which was loudly cheered for its smart appearance... They were very smart-looking fellows and I got very excited and ready to come back after they had passed by.'
It was reported that the Queen would give you a special mark of recognition as she passed by.
'Yes, she bowed to us.'
Again proceeding to relate his experiences the Sergeant Major said that the fighting in the jungle was much different to European warfare. They had to enter the jungles where very few men had ever trod and there were many exciting incidents.
Asked to recount one of these he said, 'I once captured five elephants that were carrying treasure worth half-a-million pounds in money. It was after the battle of Zarapore in which we had defeated a native prince named Tantia Topee.
We had driven all the enemy from the field and were very scattered ourselves. I noticed five elephants being driven away as hard as they would go. I gave information about them to the Colonel, who made out through his glasses that they were camels carrying pack-saddles. But I still insisted that they were elephants and after Captain Lowe had been to the Colonel about the matter he came back and said, "Troop. Stand to your horses," and we mounted and galloped after them.
The troop however, did not go in the right direction, and I went away by myself. "Where are you going, Sergeant Major," asked the Captain, and I replied, "After the elephants." — "Mind you do not shoot the drivers," he replied.
I had travelled for some miles, but saw no trace of the elephants and was just about to give up hope when I saw them climbing the brow of a hill. I dashed after them, and drawing my revolver, levelled it at the first driver and accusing him of being a rebel ordered him to return with me. He acknowledged the fact that he was, and seeing that I was in earnest, he called to the other drivers and I marched them back until we came up with my own troop who were returning fron the search.
No one knew the value of the packages until we came to examine them, when they were found to contain the treasure of the prince we had just defeated, valued, as I have said, at £500,000. Of course, we were very pleased at what had been done, but we never received a penny for it. It would appear that the officer, Captain Lowe, got all the credit for the achievement. I was so thoroughly disgusted over the whole affair, and still am.
The following is a record of this soldier's achievements: Sergeant Major Purvis served with the 17th Lancers, or "Death and Glory Boys" during the whole of the Eastern campaign of 1854-55, including the affairs of the Bulganak and MacKenzie's Farm and the night-attack on the Russian outposts on the 19th of February 1855, also the battles of the Alma, Balaclava (severely wounded and his horse killed under him) Inkerman and the Tchernya, (was Mounted Orderly to Sir James Yorke Scarlett on that day) and the Siege and fall of Sebastopol.
Possessed the Crimean medal with four clasps and the Turkish medal. Was also in the campaign in Central India, through the Mutiny of 1858-59 and was present at the action of Zarapore — Medal with clasp [sic] and the Good Conduct Medal."
To live in Brace Street, Walsall, after discharge.
1871 Census
110 Brace Street, Walsall.
William Purvis, 49, Pensioner and Sergt. Major of Yeomanry Cavalry, born Scotland.
Jane Purvis, 40, born Hereford.
Alice L. Purvis, 3, born Shorncliffe.
John W Purvis, 1, born Middlesex.
One visitor is also shown.
In the 1870s he was the "School Sergeant" at Bourne College (Methodist Foundation), Walsall.
He had an increase of pension to 32d. per day from the 4th of October 1887 after 15 years as T.S.M. of the Queen's Own Staffordshire Yeomanry.
In an Account and Address Book used by James W. Wightman when Secretary of the Balaclava Society, his address was shown as No. 90 Brace Street, Walsall, Staffordshire.
1881 Census
90 Brace Street, Walsall.
William Purvis, 54, Pensioner and Instructor in the Yeomanry Cavalry, born Glasgow.
Jane Purvis, 53, born Hereford.
William Purvis, 11, scholar, born Heston.
Letitia Purvis, 13, scholar, born Shorncliffe.
1891 Census
105, Rutter Street, Walsall.
William Purvis, 62, Army Pensioner, born Scotland.
Jane Purvis, 60, born Hereford.
William J Purvis, 21, Assay Instrument Maker, born Heston.
Elizabeth Frost, 86, mother in law, widow, born Worcester.
A boarder and a lodger are also shown.
Marriage registered
John Purvis [son] married Elizabeth Brant, September Quarter 1891 Aston.
The 1891 Census, taken earlier in the year, shows Elizabeth Brant, aged 25, Tailoress, born Walsall, living with her parents at 45, Teddesley Street, Walsall.
Died on 11th of June 1899 at Walsall.
Death registered
William Oliver Purvis, aged 73, June Quarter 1899, Walsall.
Died in Walsall at No. 4 Rutter Street on the 11th of June 1899 and was buried on the 14th of June in the New Cemetery at Ryecroft. In his will he left his estate of £1,669 to his wife, Anne. (On the tombstone in Ryecroft Cemetery his wife is named as "Jane". (See photograph of the gravestone which was erected, in the 17th Lancer file.)
EJB: His documents were returned to the Royal Hospital Chelsea on the 21st of June 1899.
See the full report of his obituary notice and funeral report taken from the Walsall and South Staffordshire Chronicle, 17th of June 1899, in the 17th Lancer file.
Also photographs of the memorial tablet which was erected in St. Matthew's Church Walsall, in alabaster and marble. This is located in the South Transept and was unveiled by Lady Bateman and Scott. (Photographs of his medals and sword which is in the Walsall Public Library, are also to be found in the 17th Lancer file.)
Extracts from the "Walsall Observer and South Staffordshire Chronicle" for the 18th and 23rd of June 1900:
The Purvis Memorial
The memorial to the late Sergeant Major Purvis, and one of the heroes of the Light Brigade at Balaclava, will be formally unveiled this (Saturday) afternoon. The Memorial has been provided by public subscription and has been placed in St. Matthew's Church, where there will be a special service at half-past three. The memorial will be unveiled by Lady Bateman and Scott, who will be accompanied by the Ven. Archdeacon Hodgson, who was formerly Vicar of Walsall.
The South transept of the church is to be reserved for the eight survivors of the Charge and other veterans who will attend to do honour to the memory of their old comrade. There will be a procession from Station Street, where the Yeomanry, the Veterans, the Volunteer Band and the Volunteers, and the Church Lad's Brigade are to gather just before three.
At that hour they are to start the march to the church by way of Park Street, Bridge Street, Goodall Street and High Street. The Guard of Honour at the church will be furnished by the Walsall Troop of the Queen's Own Yeomanry. The offertory which will be taken on this occasion will be devoted to the Indian Famine Fund.
The Late Sergeant-Major Purvis — Unveiling of the Public Memorial
On Saturday afternoon the memorial to the late Sergeant-Major Purvis which has been placed in the south transept of St. Matthew's Parish Church, was formally unveiled and dedicated in the presence of a large congregation, which filled the body of the church and occupied also a considerable part of the gallery.
The memorial has been erected chiefly through the efforts of Mr. W.H. Moseley, who soon after the death of Mr. Purvis suggested that the memory of one whom the town delighted to honour in life should not be forgotten after death. The suggestion was heartily welcomed, Lady Bateman and Scott and many others joining in the carrying out of the idea, although the work was left largely in Mr. Moseley's hands. The final result is a much more elaborate memorial than was at first proposed.
The execution of the work was entrusted to Messrs. Jones and Willis, and carried out in a manner worthy of all praise. The tablet is constructed principally of richly-veined English alabaster, with portrait medallion and inscription panel in Sicilian marble.
The body of the tablet is divided into three panels by boldly projecting buttresses moulded on the face and terminating in the capping mould with bosses of carved foliage. Above the carved bosses the mould sweeps upwards and forms into a panel, in which is placed the portrait and medallion of the deceased wearing Lancer uniform, sculptured in bas-relief flanked to the spandrels by two cannons.
A light pierced cresting runs along the top of the capping mould, in which the rose, shamrock and thistle and two shields are introduced, on one of which is carved the lion and on the other the eagle typical of England and Russia.
The centre, or main panel, is reserved for the inscription, setting forth the birth, death and deeds of the late Sergeant-Major. In the two side-panels, which are well-recessed and architecturally treated with traceried heads, trophies of arms are carved in high relief, entwined with laurel wreaths.
The divisional buttress at the base run into a well-splayed mould which carries the tablet, and in the centre of these, and springing fron it, is a shield with foliated supports, bearing on it the regimental crest of the 17th Lancers, namely the skull and cross-bones of the "Death or Glory Boys." The inscription is as follows:
To the Glory of God and in Memory of
WILLIAM PURVIS
Late Sergeant-Major of the 17th (Duke of Cambridge's
Own Lancer's;
Born 5th July 1825; Died June 11th 1899.
Interred at Walsall (Rycoft) Cemetery
14th June 1899.
He served with his regiment for the long period of twenty-
five years and was present throughout the Crimean War,
1854 to 1856 and the Indian Mutiny, 1857-58.
He took part in, and was one of the survivors of the ever memorable
Charge of the Light Brigade at the Battle of Balaclava, in which he
was severely wounded. He also fought with much bravery in many other
engagements, including the affairs of the Bulganak and MacKenzie's
Farm, the Battles of the Alma, Inkerman and Tchernya, the Siege of
Sebastopol and the action of Zerapore.
From 1870 to 1888 he was Drill Instructor to the Walsall Troop
of the Queen's Own Yeomanry Cavalry.
As a tribute to his manly character, his unassuming and kindly bearing
and his long and devoted service to his Queen and country, this tablet
was erected by his fellow townsmen, A.D. 1900:
"When can their glory fade ? Noble Six Hundred."
The proceedings commenced on Saturday with a procession, which was formed in Station Street. It consisted of members of the Walsall Troop of the Queen's Own Yeomanry, old veterans of various regiments, including eight survivors of the Balaclava Charge, the Volunteer Band, Walsall Companies of the 2nd V.B.S.S. Regt. and the Church Lad's Brigade. The procession marched by way of Park Street, Bridge Street, Goodall Street and the High Street, to the church, where a guard of honour was furnished by the Yeomanry.
The south transept was reserved for the veterans, the choir and the Committee, consisting of Messrs. W.H. Moseley (Hon. treasurer and secretary) J. Fenn, G.H. Sharrett. J.E. Mayo and W. Moss, the seats immediately in front of the tablet being occupied by Lady Bateman and Scott, Countess Shannon, the Revd. J. Hopkin and Mr. T. Marlow.
The processional hymn was "Onward Christian Soldiers," and when the Ven. Archdeacon had arrived in front of the memorial, Mr. W.H. Moseley made the usual request that he would accept the tablet and dedicate it "to the Glory of God and to the pious memory of William Purvis." The memorial was then unveiled by Lady Bateman and Scott, and the dedicatory sentences were read by the Archdeacon. The evening service was intoned by the Revd, W. Collett. The other clergy present were the Revds. T.K. Sopwith and S.J. Selwyn. The psalm was the 138th, and the hymn, "Fight the good fight."
The Venerable Archdeacon then delivered a short address. He said; 'Reading the other day in the introduction to the life of that great man, the late Lord Bowen, whom you will remember paid Walsall a visit as President of your Literary Institute in 1891, the following words, which seemed to me not inappropriate to the object of our gathering here today.
The words are these — "When a friend passes away from us there is a natural desire for something which may give definiteness and permanence to the impression he made upon us in his lifetime. Such a desire is reasonable. When nothing of this is done we become more than ever conscious of the loss which in one sense grows with the lapse of time. The definite outline becomes blurred year by year. The figure stands out in less bold and clear relief, colours fade; recollections, however affectionately cherished, become faint and inaccurate, and so the slow process of oblivion begins."
Thoughts of this kind were, I doubt not, in the minds of those who desired to hand on to future generations the memory of the brave soldier to whose upright and manly character with its unassuming and kindly bearing, a just tribute is paid on the tablet which has just been unveiled and dedicated. They would rescue from the dull process of oblivion, the character of their dead townsman whom in life it was good for them to know, and who, being dead, shall continue to speak to those who come after.
But William Purvis is to be regarded as something more than a mere individual: He was the type, the eminent representative of the underlying and inspiring force of the English national character, which has contributed to gain for the British, through all the struggles and vicissitudes of the past, the foremost place amongst the nations of the world.
What Purvis did and suffered as a private soldier, whether at Alma or Inkerman, or Balaclava, or in the Indian Mutiny, was what thousands of his fellow combatants were prepared to do and did so dare and do, who fell wounded and dying by his side, and what thousands of others are ready do, and dare and suffer today when the trumpet call of patriotism and duty bids then to go forth to whatever place or post it may be for fight for Queen and country.
Nor must I omit to notice the fact that when, after 24 years of service in his regiment, William Purvis retired into private life, he refused to spend his remaining years in the enjoyment of inglorious ease as some in similar circumstances might have done. No, for 18 years he was drill-instructor to the Walsall Troop of the Queen's Own Yeomanry, and there are those present in this church this afternoon who can bear witness to his unfailing courtesy, to his diligence, to his proficiency, and to the pains he took with the young dragoons committed to his care.
Now, my friends, these qualities of courage, of manliness, faithfulness to duty and industriousness, are not the qualities of the individual only, but of the race, so far at least as the heart of the English race beats true to the right conception of its highest conviction and destiny. Therefore, the memorial to such a one as William Purvis may justly be regarded as a monument which bears an open witness to that which is best and noblest and the most strenuous in the finest part of the English national character.
May the beautiful tablet which has today been dedicated with such an inspiring and undying voice as shall say to those who, when from time to time visiting or worshipping in this ancient parish church, shall cast their eyes on the memorial to William Purvis — "Brother, whatever thy sphere of duty, whether at home or abroad, on the battlefield or in the peaceful path of daily toil, go and do thou likewise." '
The hymn, 'For all the Saints,' was sung during the offertory, which was taken on behalf of the Mayor's Indian Famine Fund and the service concluded with the singing of the National Anthem which was heartily sung by all present to the accompaniment of the Volunteer Band.
Afterwards the veterans who were attending were presented to Lady Bateman and Scott and Countess Shannon who shook hands with each of them before they left the sacred institution."
There is a photograph of the eight survivors of the Charge from Walsall Public Library that was most probably taken on this occasion. (See copy in the 17th Lancer file.)
In early 1990 an old photograph album was found in a North Midlands antique shop that contained a number of family photographs. Although all were un-named, they included what must have been the original photograph of him which was used for the painting now in Walsall Museum. There was also a photograph of a young man (possibly his son, John) and a photograph of the gravestone of one Samuel Smith and his wife, and thought to be in a Birmingham churchyard.
The list of family mourners at William Purvis's funeral included a Mr. T.B. Smith (late 17th Lancers) of Handsworth, and a Mr. and Mrs. S. Smith, of Birmingham. (See these particular photographs in the 17th Lancer file.)
It is recorded too that a silver plaque was purchased at a militaria sale in 1999 which had obviously previously been affixed to a presentation (possibly a cigar box or some such) given to him by all ranks of the Walsall Troop, Q.O.R.Y. in appreciation of his long service to the unit. Dated the 4th June 1884 however, this does not agree with the reputed date of his leaving the corps in 1888. (See photograph of this in the 17th Lancer files.)
Birth registered
Lettie Brant Purvis [granddaughter], March Quarter 1892, Aston.
1901 Census
105 Rutter Street, Walsall.
Jane Purvis, 74, widow, born Hereford.
William J Purvis [son], 32, Electrical Engineer, born Hounslow.
Alice L Purvis [daughter], 33, born Shorncliffe.
Elizabeth Purvis, 34, dau in law, born Walsall.
Lettie B Purvis [granddaughter], 9, born Birmingham.
Death registered
Jane Purvis [wife], aged 83, March Quarter 1910, Walsall.
1911 Census
5 Durants Road, Ponders End, Middlesex.
John Purvis [son], 41, Electrical Engineer, born Hounslow.
Elizabeth Purvis, 44, born Walsall.
Lettie Purvis [granddaughter], 19, milliner, born Birmingham.
Marriage registered
Lettie B Purvis [grand-daughter] married Thomas H Talbot, September Quarter 1922, Walsall.
Charge of the Light Brigade hero remembered at Walsall church
Written by Ian Henery
A veteran of the Charge of the Light Brigade from Walsall was commemorated last weekend as part of Remembrance Day and the 800th anniversary of St Matthew's Church.
Sergeant Major William Purvis joined the 17th Lancers ('Death or Glory' regiment) and found immortal fame with the 13th Dragoons, 11th Hussars, 4th Light Dragoons and the 8th Hussars at the Battle of Balaclava on October 25, 1854, in the Crimea.
Sergeant Major William Purvis's memorial at St Matthew's Church, Walsall
This military action, known as the Charge of the Light Brigade after the poem of the same name by Tennyson, saw lightly armed cavalry charge Russian artillery and were mown down. The reckless bravery of the charge prompted French Marshall Pierre Bosquet to state: "It is magnificent — but it is not war — it is madness."
Walsall Poet Laureate and St Matthew`s Festival Poet in Residence, Ian Henery, said: "The Charge of the Light Brigade is best remembered as the subject of the poem by Tennyson, published six weeks after the event and written within minutes of Tennyson reading about it in The Times.
"The lines of the poem emphasise the valour of the cavalry in bravely carrying out their orders, regardless of the outcome.
"I was amazed to discover that a Black Country man from Walsall was in that charge. What did he think? What did he feel? I was determined to write a poem in his honour to commemorate his remarkable bravery."
A total of 675 men rode down that long Valley of Death towards the Russian artillery (Tennyson's Noble 600). As far as the 17th Lancers were concerned, out of the 147 men who bravely rode out only 38 returned — three officers and 35 men answered roll call the next morning.
In the charge Purvis had his horse shot from beneath him and he had three ribs broken as the animal rolled over him in death.
After the charge Corporal Chadwick was riding back and brought Purvis back to safety clinging to his stirrups out of the Valley of Death.
Purvis not only saw action at the Battle of Balaclava but other conflicts in the Crimean War at the Siege of Sebastapol and the Battle of Inkerman.
Churchwarden Diane Edlin said: "800 years of standing overlooking Walsall is quite an achievement and although Walsall has had it tough over the years, St Matthew's Church deserves the best we can do in the way of keeping the Church safe for another 800 years."
St Matthews is the Parish and Civic Church of Walsall and has many historic features, being composed of sandstone and limestone.
During the English Civil War, Oliver Cromwell used the Church as a stables for his horses while on campaign against Colonel Leigh at Rushall Hall.
However, it was the campaigns and devotion to his Queen and Country that set Black Country men like William Purvis apart and deserve to be remembered.
After the Crimean War, his regiment were despatched to India to quell the troubles known as The Indian Mutiny and then Ireland.
He was married to Eliza Jane Smith in 1860 and discharged from the 17th Lancers in 1870 after 24 years of service with a pension
It is always hard for ex-soldiers to find work (then and now) and when a vacancy came up as Troop Sergeant Major to the Walsall Troop of the Queen's Own Royal Yeomanry, Purvis took it and moved his family to Walsall.
Purvis served as Troop Sergeant Major in Walsall between 1870 — 1888 and lived at 110 Brace Street, Walsall, before retirement.
Walsall Poet Laureate and St Matthew`s Festival Poet in Residence, Ian Henery, said: "It is fascinating to look at the parallels with gallant old soldiers today and in Victorian times.
"The situation existing for soldiers now were the same as then — nobody wanted them and Walsall took this Black Country man to its heart."
Forty years after writing The Charge of the Light Brigade, Kipling wrote The Last of the Light Brigade commemorating a visit by the last 20 survivors to Tennyson (then in his 80th year) to reproach him for not writing a sequel about the way in which England was treating its old soldiers:
"Kipling wanted to draw attention to the poverty in which the real survivors were living, " said Ian Henery, "in the same way that he evoked Tommy Atkins in his poem The Absent Minded Beggar."
In 1890 Purvis moved to 105 Rutter Street, Walsall, and died on June 11, 1899.
He was 73 and was buried with full military honours in Ryecroft Cemetry with a significant write up in the Walsall Advertizer newspaper on June 17, 1899.
His coffin was carried on a gun carriage with the Union flag draped across it with his four medals and sabre on top of it.
All Walsall's shops were closed for the funeral. Balaclava veterans attended the unveiling of his memorial (paid for by public subscription) in St Matthew's Church in 1900.
The earthly legacy — apart from his medals and sabre (now in Walsall's Museum) left behind by Purvis was just £158.19 shillings for his wife, who was later buried in the same grave as her husband when she died:
"William Purvis, like lots of old soldiers," said Ian Henery, "didn't ask for much or leave a lot behind either in material terms.
"Their real legacy is their undoubted courage and example. This is why I wanted to write a poem to William Purvis in an acrostic style, where the first letter of each line spelled out a letter from his name for St Matthew's 800th anniversary."
What was it that summed up the essence of William Purvis in St Matthew's 800th anniversary?
Ian Henery is quick with an answer. "Read his memorial in St Matthew's Church," he said:
"It doesn't say that he was a good cavalry man or handy with a pistol — nothing like that but the memorial is a tribute to his 'upright and manly character, his unassuming and kindly bearing and his long devoted service to his Queen and Country'."
I read that as saying: "He was a kind man and a role model."
[Source: http:/www.blackcountrybugle.co.uk/News/Charge-of-the-Light-Brigade-hero-remembered-at-Walsall-church-13112013.htm#ixzz2lCSa6IBN (accessed 21.11.2013)]
William Purvis
Walsall-born and one of the Six Hundred
In Tennyson's Charge of the Light Brigade.
Lethal rain monstrous cannons thundered,
Lives crushed, but this man's courage will not fade
In charging the guns, a death or glory,
Answering orders in the Crimea.
Memories, his home in the Black Country,
Purpose set, this brave man conquered his fear.
Unleashed was Hell in the Valley of Death,
Riding for Walsall, his comrades and peers.
Valiantly he rode with prayers on his breath,
Inferno raging, duty answered,
Stout William Purvis of the Lancers.
Written by Ian Henery, Poet in Residence of St Matthews Festival, Walsall Poet Laureate 2013/2014.
[Source: http://www.walsalladvertiser.co.uk/poetscorner/story-20044626-detail/story.html (accessed 22.11.2013)]
>References & acknowledgements
Additional birth, marriage and death registrations, and Census information for 1871-1911 kindly provided by Chris Poole.