John Sidaway was christened on 11th April, 1751 at Saint Leonard’s, Shoreditch, London, his father was John Sidaway and his mother was Elizabeth, Nee Cook. He was the eldest child, with two younger brothers, Robert and James, and three younger sisters Anne (married Roland Nelson), Elizabeth and Charlotte.

 

When Mary Marshall (common law wife of Robert Sidaway) wrote from New South Wales, Australia in September, 1814 to try and obtain the Deeds of a Farm a copy of her letter was sent to Lieutenant J Sidaway, R. W. Train, Croydon Barracks, ------, Surrey.  This writing on the back meant nothing until I came across John Sidaway's will, the timing and correspondance fit like jigsaw puzzle together.

Back of letter from M. Marshall. 1814

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John Sidaway's will dated August 1817.

This is as near as I can get to reading it, sorry about the gaps.

 

This says that I, John Sidaway of Croydon Barracks but now residing --------in the county of Surrey, a captain in the Royal Waggon Train,
………..after my death, and payment thereof of funeral expenses and the lawyers of proving this will I give and bequeath all the property I may possessed of in the -------at the time of my death, together with all my household furniture plate--------- apparel, monies
………………. Remainder unto Margaret ?Allen? Widow of the late Johnathan ?Allen? a cornet in the Royal Waggon Train and appoint her Executive of this my last will and testament …….. set my hand and seal this twenty sixth day of August 1817 John Sidaway signed.

Proved at London 25th February, 1824 before the worshipful Charles Coote Doctor of Law and ----- by the oath of Margaret ?Wasley wife of James Wasley heretofore ?Allen? widow the sole Executrix to ----------- was granted having been first sworn duly to administer.

 

 

 

1803 John Sidaway, Gent, appointed Cornet, Royal Waggon Train

 

1804 John Sidaway, Cornet, appointed Lieutenant, Royal Waggon Train

 

1812 Lieutenant John Sidaway appointed Captain of a Troop, Royal Waggon Train

 

 

 

The Royal Waggon Train was in service between 1799 – 1833. At its height it had twelve troops, a total strength of 2000 in all ranks. It provided support for the army, especially in the wars in the Iberian Peninsular during the 1908 – 1909 campaign. The Royal Waggon Train was reduced to five troops in 1815 and disbanded in 1833. Its role being taken on later by Royal Corp of Transport and Royal Logistic Corps.