Gerard Septimus Burton

Gerard Septimus Burton was born in 1841, in Welton, Daventry, Northamptonshire. He was the son of Edmond Singer Burton, a solicitor, and Anna Maria Watkins. In January 1859 Gerard joined the 2nd battalion,13th (Prince Albert’s) Light Infantry. The London Gazette of 28 Jan 1859 lists: 13th Foot, Gerard Septimus Burton, Gentleman, to be an ensign, without purchase, vice [Alfred Gabriel] Wynen, promoted. Three years later he was a lieutenant, on 28 Dec 1861.

He served as a captain in the 9th East Norfolks when they went to Afghanistan to fight in the war of 1879-80. He was appointed brigade major in the advance to Kabul and was present at the battles of Jugdulluck and Saidababd as well as the relief of Sherpore. He was one of only two officers who were with the 2nd Battalion throughout its service in India and Burma from 1874 to 1890. While in Burma he took over command from Colonel Charles Perry on 1 May 1889. He was commanding officer of the 2nd Battalion until 1893.

Colonel Burton lived at the Old Hall, Caister St Edmund, Norfolk c1902. He was married to Elizabeth Perry Keane in 1874 and had at least one son, Gerard William Burton ( 23 Aug 1879 - 12 Oct 1915) who was also an officer in the Norfolk Regiment. The photo, taken in 1898, shows Colonel GS Burton seated in staff uniform, and 2nd Lieutenant G W Burton in full dress uniform of the Norfolks.

1859 Ensign 13th Light Infantry 28 Jan
1861 Lieutenant 28 Dec
1873 Captain 9th East Norfolks 5 jul
1881 Major 15 oct
1889 Lieutenant-Colonel 1 May
1913 died in Norwich 7 April