Bradshaw Reilly facts for kids

Bradshaw Yorke Reilly (born March 1807 – died 5 November 1853) was a brave military officer who served in the East India Company during the 1800s. He was a Lieutenant Colonel and played a part in several important events in British India.

A Life in the Military

Bradshaw Yorke Reilly was born in Bath, Somerset, England, in 1807. When he was about 14 years old, in 1821, he joined the East India Company Military Seminary. This was a special school where young people trained to become officers for the East India Company's army.

Becoming an Engineer

In 1823, Reilly became an ensign in the Bengal Engineers. The Bengal Engineers were a group of soldiers who specialized in building things like bridges and forts, and also in military tactics. Reilly and another cadet, Frederick Bordwine, were both excellent students. Since they were equally good, they drew lots (like drawing straws) to decide where they would go. Reilly was chosen to go to Bengal, a region in India, while Bordwine went to Bombay.

Early Battles and Promotions

Reilly was promoted to Lieutenant in May 1824. He soon saw his first major action during the Siege of Bharatpur. This was a big battle that happened during the First Anglo-Burmese War. He continued to serve with dedication.

In 1836, he married Emily Robson. Later, in 1843, he was a Captain and fought in the Gwalior campaign. This was another important military operation. Because of his leadership skills, Reilly was made the Commandant of the Corps in April 1843. He was then promoted to Major in late 1844.

Leading in War

Reilly played a very important role in the First Anglo-Sikh War. During this war, he commanded six different companies (groups of soldiers) at the Battle of Sobraon. This was a major battle where his leadership was crucial.

In November 1848, he was transferred to the Invalid Establishment as a Lieutenant-Colonel. This meant he was still part of the military but was no longer actively serving in the field, often due to health reasons. Bradshaw Yorke Reilly passed away in 1853 in Landour, which was then part of British India.