James Metcalfe (Bengal Army officer) facts for kids

James Metcalfe (1817 – 8 March 1888) was a military officer from both British and Indian heritage. He served in the Bengal Army, which was the army of the East India Company in India. He reached the rank of Lieutenant-Colonel, a high position in the army.

Early Life and Education

James Metcalfe was born in India in 1817. His father was Charles Metcalfe, a British official. His mother was a Punjabi Sikh woman. His father had met her while working as a special representative, called an "envoy," at the court of Ranjit Singh in Lahore. James had three full brothers.

He received his education at the East India Company Military Seminary in Surrey, England. This school trained young men to become officers in the East India Company's army. After finishing his studies, James returned to India in 1836.

Military Career in India

When he returned to India, James Metcalfe became a second lieutenant in the Bengal Native Infantry. This was a part of the Bengal Army. A second lieutenant is a junior officer rank. From 1839 to 1846, he served as the "adjutant" of his regiment. An adjutant is an officer who helps the commander with daily tasks and paperwork.

In 1846, his father passed away, and James inherited a large sum of money, about £50,000. This was a very significant amount at the time.

Important Roles and the Indian Rebellion

From 1848 to 1853, James Metcalfe worked as an "aide-de-camp" for The Marquess of Dalhousie. An aide-de-camp is a personal assistant to a high-ranking officer or official. The Marquess of Dalhousie was the Governor-General of India, the highest British official in charge of India.

During the Indian Rebellion of 1857, a major uprising against British rule, James Metcalfe played an important role. He was appointed as an interpreter for General Sir Colin Campbell, who was the Commander-in-Chief (the top military leader) in India. He also continued to serve as an aide-de-camp and was in charge of the headquarters.

After the rebellion ended, James Metcalfe was recognized for his service. He was made a Companion of the Order of Bath, which is a special honor given for military service. He was also promoted to the rank of lieutenant-colonel. He retired from the army in 1861.

Later Life

After retiring from his military career, James Metcalfe moved to London, England. He lived there until his death on 8 March 1888.

Family Life

In 1852, James Metcalfe married José Eliza. She was the daughter of Evelyn Meadows Gordon, who worked in the Bengal civil service, another important British administration in India.