Picture courtesy Firepower
Firepower, The Royal Artillery Museum in Woolwich, London, has launched a new guide for family history researchers.
Is There a Gunner in Your Family Tree? is a 16-page, full-colour publication outlining how the Museum's extensive archives can help relatives and descendents find out more about the 2.5 million men and women who have served as gunners in the Royal Artillery since its foundation at Woolwich in 1716.
It also details the other main UK sources and archives to explore when researching army service for a family tree, as well as case studies of former Royal Artillery soldiers.
"Our archive is relevant to so many family historians because the Royal Artillery is one of the biggest regiments in the British Army," says Mark Smith, Curator of the Museum.
"During the Second World War there were more people serving as gunners than were serving in the entire Royal Navy. There are literally millions of people out there who have family ties with the Royal Artillery, and we are happy to help them find out more about their Gunner heritage."
The new book can help relatives find out more about the 2.5 million men and women who have served in the Royal Artillery
The Museum's world-renowned Library and Archives are a treasure trove for family historians. Millions of documents, books and photographs can be accessed, allowing the researcher a unique insight into the military service of individuals who served in the Royal Artillery.
Among the records available are those relating to the Royal Artillery service of Spike Milligan, former Prime Minister Edward Heath and comedian Frankie Howerd.
For more information about the research facilities at Firepower visit Firepower online
The book is available from Firepower, The Royal Artillery Museum for £2 including postage. Call 020 8312 7134 to order or visit the Museum's online shop .
