In 2002 William E. Irwin

In 2002 William E. Irwin sent the Association biographical information on his great grandfather Master Gunner Thomas James Irwin.

Thomas was born in Ireland in 1835 where his Scots-born father was serving as an officer in the Irish Constabulary. Joining the Royal Artillery, Gunner Irwin married Jane Herdman in 1860 while he was stationed at Leith Fort.

The couple lived in married quarters at 8 Annsfield, Newhaven, not far from the barracks. Transferred to Dumbarton Castle, Bombardier Irwin rose to the rank of Master Gunner.

On leaving the Army, Thomas became the owner of the Ship’s Inn which was situated at no. 1 Quay Street, Dumbarton before emigrating to the Assiniboia Territory, Canada.

Master Gunner Irwin and his wife had eleven children. We’d be interested to hear from anyone who might have further information on the gunner as he may have fired the One o’ Clock Gun while stationed at Leith Fort.

Our archivist John Bodsworth reckons that Master Gunner Irwin is wearing the Army Long Service and Good Conduct Medal.