This document explores the early life of Edward Preaux (born Etienne Prau in 1780) and his journey from French Guadeloupe to becoming a British soldier. It details his family origins in Guadeloupe, the turbulent social and political environment of the island following the French Revolution, and his likely departure for British North America in 1794. The document then outlines his 19 years of service in the British Army, primarily with the 7th Regiment of Foot and later the 8th Royal Veteran Battalion, including service in North America, the West Indies, Ireland, and Denmark. It concludes with his retirement in 1813 in Portsmouth, England. He died in 1847.
William Davis Brunt, born in 1831, was a Farrier Sergeant in the Royal Artillery, serving for 22 years. He participated in the Crimean and China Wars and served two tours in India. Despite an early disciplinary issue, he earned five Good Conduct Badges and the Long Service and Good Conduct Medal. After discharge in 1875, he worked as a blacksmith in Preston until his death in 1883. His children's lives varied, with some becoming nurses, soldiers, or emigrating. Family anecdotes provide insights into their diverse paths after their parents' early deaths.
The document "The Prow Family" by Dorothy Day details the history of the Prow family, tracing their origins from Edouard Proux (later anglicized to Prow) in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. It focuses on Etienne Proux, who emigrated from Guadeloupe to England, and his descendants.
It is important to understand this is a collection of both facts and anecdotes - all drawn later in Dorothy’s life from her prodigious (but human) memory. While she had undertaken some research at Somerset House before the internet placed a lot of genealogical records online, she does not cite any of that research here as evidence. So it is sometimes difficult to discern facts from anecdotes in her narrative. Some family members have pointed out there are some inconsistencies in this account that do not accord with their own understanding of the family history. So beware - read this - enjoy the yarn - but do take everything with just a little pinch of salt!