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→Service and pension records
Discharge papers ([http://www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/catalogue/displaycataloguedetails.asp?CATID=13157&CATLN=3&Highlight=&FullDetails=True WO 97]), usually containing service/attestation information, and pension records ([http://www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/catalogue/displaycataloguedetails.asp?CATID=13082&CATLN=3&Highlight=&FullDetails=True WO 22]) may also be found at TNA. Discharge papers up to 1854 are listed alphabetically by name and can be searched online. Records in WO 97 are usually only for men discharged with a pension (ie having served 12 years or having been invalided) as these were the papers sent to the Royal Hospital Chelsea and preserved. The records often contain a wealth of genealogical information, including birth date and location, next of kin, physical description, service locations, medical history and medals. Copies (paper or digital) of TNA records can be ordered by distance for a fee.
The National Archives is working with findmypast.co.uk to scan and place online WO 97 (Royal Hospital Chelsea: Soldiers' Service Documents 1760-1913) and WO 96 (War Office: Militia Attestation Papers 1806-1915) by the end of 2011. WO97 for the years 1873 1855 to 1900 is currently available at [http://www.findmypast.co.uk/chelsea-pensioners-service-records-collection-search-start.action findmypast.co.uk]. Charges apply to view the records, but the search is free.
Catalogue references for WO 97:
