William Merewether facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Sir William Merewether
Born	6 February 1825 London, England
Died	4 October 1880 Bayswater, London, England
Allegiance	United Kingdom
Service/branch	British Indian Army
Rank	Major-General
Battles/wars	Abyssinia Expedition
Awards	Knight Commander of the Order of the Star of India Companion of the Order of the Bath

Sir William Lockyer Merewether (born February 6, 1825 – died October 4, 1880) was a high-ranking officer in the Bombay Army. This was part of the British Indian Army. He served in many places, including India and Abyssinia. He was known for his military and political work.

Sir William Merewether's Life

William Merewether was born in London, England. His father was Sergeant Henry Alworth Merewether. William went to Westminster School. In 1841, he joined the Bombay Army.

He served in the 21st Native Infantry regiment. This was in a region called Sind in 1843. Later, in 1848, he became second-in-command of the Sind Horse. This was a special cavalry unit. Sir George Malcolm was his commander.

In 1860, William Merewether received an award. It was called the Companion of the Order of the Bath (CB). This award recognized his good service. In 1861, he became a government secretary in Bombay. He also worked as a political agent. From 1863 to 1867, he was the British Resident at Aden. This meant he was a top British official in Aden.

Role in the Abyssinia Expedition (1867–1868)

Merewether played an important part in the Abyssinia Expedition. This was a military mission in 1867–1868. As a colonel, he landed at Mulkutto in October 1867. This area was near the Gulf of Zula.

He explored the land to find the best path. He looked along the Ethiopian highlands. He found the Ragolay River. He also found Tekonda Pass. This pass was seen as the best way into the highlands. The next month, his team went further inland. They reached the Senafe Pass. This path led from the Kumayli River to Senafe.

After the expedition was successful, he was promoted. He became a Brigadier General. In 1868, he was made a knight. This was for his work in talking with King Theodore of Abyssinia. It was also for helping Lord Napier in Bombay.

Work in Sindh (Pakistan)

From 1867 to 1877, he was the Commissioner in Sind. This was a very important leadership role. He helped start the Sindh Club. He was also its first president. From 1876, he served on the Council of India. This council advised the British government on Indian affairs.

Family Life

William Merewether married Harriet in 1854. She was the daughter of J. Dale from Warwickshire. They had three sons together.

Memorials

There are places named after Sir William Merewether. The Merewether Clock Tower is in Karachi, Pakistan. There is also a ship pier named after him. It is located in Karachi Harbour.