Z1081/2

Transcription of the monument at Bedford Cemetery to the memory of Sergeant-Major Clay: 'This tribute of respect, to the memory of Sergeant-Major Matthew Clay, has been erected by many inhabitants of Bedford: where during forty years, he so lived as to win and retain the esteem of his fellow-townsmen'. 'He was one of the invincible defenders of Hougoumont in the Battle of Waterloo'. 'A stately veteran: dignified and modest; not less conscientious than brave'. 'Sergeant Matthew Clay served, with high character from 1813 until 1833, in The Third (Scots Fusilier) Regiment of Foot Guards: and from 1833 until 1852, as Sergeant-Major of the Bedfordshire Militia.' Born in the Parish of Blidworth, County of Nottingham: died, at Bedford, on the 5th June 1873: in his 78th year.

n.d [1873]

From: 1813 To: 1873

item

monumental inscriptions, public cemeteries, sergeant major, battles, militia, DEATH, Waterloo Hougomont Farm, soldier, 3rd Regiment Foot Guards, BEDFORD, Waterloo, BEDFORDSHIRE, Blidworth