Mathias Everard facts for kids

Mathias Everard was an important military leader, a Major-General, from Randilestown, County Meath, Ireland. He was born into a family with a long history. He started his army career as an ensign (a junior officer) in the 2nd or Queen's regiment in 1804. He later became a lieutenant in 1805. Mathias Everard also served as the Lieutenant-Governor of British Saint Lucia, a Caribbean island, from 1839 to 1841. He passed away in 1857.

Early Military Adventures

In December 1805, young Everard was on a ship sailing home from Gibraltar. His company, along with others, was captured by a French fleet. The French ships were led by Admiral Ganteaume.

Captured by the French

Everard and his fellow soldiers were put on a French ship called the Volontaire. They were held captive for about three months. The Volontaire then sailed into Table Bay to get water. The French captain did not know that the British had already recaptured the Cape (in South Africa). Because of this, the French ship had to surrender to the British shore batteries.

Serving at the Cape

After being freed, Everard's company served at the Cape for several months. Some soldiers from another regiment, the 54th, were sent to the Rio Plata. Everard was temporarily with them. They fought as mounted infantry (soldiers who ride horses but fight on foot) under Sir Samuel Auchmuty.

Heroic Actions in Battle

Mathias Everard was known for his bravery in several important battles.

Storming Montevideo

On February 3, 1807, Everard led a very dangerous attack. This was during the storming of Montevideo, a city in South America. He led the "forlorn hope," which was a small group of soldiers who went first into battle. They faced the most danger. Out of 32 men with him, 22 were either killed or wounded. For his courage, Everard received a special sword of honor. This sword came from Lloyd's Patriotic Fund. He was also given the Freedom of the City of Dublin. This is a special award that honors someone for their service.

Promotions and Further Service

Because of his bravery, Everard was promoted on April 23, 1807. He became a captain in the 14th Foot regiment. He then fought in the famous Battle of Corunna in Spain. He also took part in the Walcheren Campaign in 1809.

Fighting at Flushing

During the Walcheren Campaign, Everard was praised for his actions at the siege of Flushing. On August 12, 1809, he commanded a group of soldiers. They stormed one of the enemy's batteries (a place with cannons). They managed to get very close to the enemy's walls. His actions were even mentioned in official military orders.

Campaigns in India

Later, Everard was transferred to the 1st battalion of his regiment in India. He commanded his regiment during the siege of Hattrass in 1817. He also led a special battalion in battles against the Pindarrees from 1818 to 1819.

Storming Bhurtpore

On December 29, 1825, Everard commanded his regiment at the storming of Bhurtpore. His regiment, the 14th, led one of the main attack groups. They bravely cleared a breach (a gap in the enemy's defenses) even after an explosion happened too early. They then joined up with another attack group. Their steady and disciplined fighting helped win the day. Lord Combermere, a high-ranking officer, said that the actions of Everard's regiment "decided the fate of the day."

Later Life and Honors

Mathias Everard continued to serve with distinction throughout his career.

Awards and Promotions

After the victory at Bhurtpore, Everard received more honors. He was made a Companion of the Order of the Bath (C.B.). He was also promoted to brevet lieutenant-colonel. This is a temporary higher rank. He became a full regimental lieutenant-colonel in 1831. He commanded his regiment for 16 years. During this time, they served in different places, including the West Indies and North America.

He was made a Knight of the Royal Guelphic Order (K.H.) in 1831. On November 11, 1851, he became a Major-General. He also received a special pension for his distinguished service.

Final Years

Mathias Everard inherited his family's estate after his older brother passed away. He died in Southsea, England, on April 20, 1857. He never married.