Born at Berkhampstead.
The records of the Independent Chapel at Berkhampstead show him as being baptised there on the 1st of August 1834, the son of William Sewell, a labourer, and his wife Ann, nee Earp.
His parents were married in the same chapel on the 26th of December 1828, the witnesses being William Tompkins and Ann Tedder.
Three other children were born into the family, Mary, baptised on the 2nd of May 1830, Jane, baptised on the 10th of July 1832 and Boaz, baptised on the 20th of April 1836.
From the date of John Sewell's christening, he was really only 17 years of age when he enlisted.
Enlisted at London on the 6th of October 1851.
Age: 19.
Height: 5' 8".
Trade: Painter.
Embarked for the Crimea aboard the H.T. "Wilson Kennedy" on the 2nd of May 1854.
At Scutari General Hospital from the 22nd of September and sent to rejoin the regiment on the 20th of October 1854.
From Private to Corporal: 28th of August 1854.
Severely wounded in action at Balaclava and sent to Scutari on the 26th of October 1854.
"Died of wounds" at Scutari on the 25th of December 1854.
Entitled to the Crimean medal with clasps for Balaclava and Sebastopol.
Further medal information archived
"Died of wounds" at Scutari on the 25th of December 1854.