Henry Estridge facts for kids

Henry Whatley Estridge (born 10 October 1837 – died 15 January 1902) was an English man who had many different careers. He was a cricket player, an officer in the Royal Indian Navy and the British Army, a government official in the Colonial Service, and a naturalist (someone who studies nature).

Meet Henry Estridge: A Man of Many Talents

Henry Whatley Estridge was born in Carshalton, England, in October 1837. He grew up to lead a very interesting life. He wasn't just one thing; he explored many different paths. From serving in the military to playing cricket, and even studying nature, Henry Estridge was a true adventurer.

From Sailor to Soldier: Henry's Military Adventures

Henry Estridge started his career in the Royal Indian Navy. This was the navy that protected British interests in India. He served during the Anglo-Persian War in 1856 and 1857. During this war, he was a midshipman on a ship called the Clive. He even took part in a battle at Bushire in December 1856.

After the war, Henry returned to England. He decided to join the British Army. In September 1859, he bought a special position as an ensign in the 46th Regiment of Foot. Later, in June 1862, he became a lieutenant. He left the army in September 1865.

Henry's Cricket Days

Even with his busy military life, Henry Estridge found time for sports. He played first-class cricket, which is the highest level of the sport. In 1868, he played for a team called the Gentlemen of the South. They played against the Players of the South at a famous cricket ground called The Oval.

During this match, Henry got to bat twice. In his first turn, he didn't score any runs. But in his second turn, he scored 14 runs! He was a right-handed batter and bowled with his right arm, using an underarm slow style.

Exploring the World: Colonial Service and Nature

After his military career, Henry Estridge joined the Colonial Service. This was a group of officials who helped govern British colonies around the world.

Life in the Seychelles

From 1876 to 1885, Henry lived in the Seychelles. These are beautiful islands in the Indian Ocean. There, he worked as a customs collector in Mahé. This meant he was in charge of collecting taxes on goods coming into and leaving the islands.

While living in the Seychelles, Henry became very interested in the plants and animals of the islands. He loved studying the local flora (plants) and fauna (animals). He even wrote a book about his experiences called Six Years in the Seychelles.

Returning Home and New Adventures

In 1885, Henry returned to England. He was so proud of his book that he gave a copy to Queen Victoria herself!

He went back to his work with the Colonial Service in 1886. This time, he became the receiver and accountant-general for British Bechuanaland. This area is now part of modern-day Botswana in Africa. He worked there from 1886 to 1888. Henry was also a member of the Royal Colonial Institute.

Henry Whatley Estridge passed away in January 1902 in Witney, England. He was survived by his wife, Selina Eliza Pye Estridge. His brother, George, was also a first-class cricketer, just like Henry.