What was a Chelsea Pensioner in 1800s?
Historically, there were two categories of Chelsea Pensioner: In-Pensioners: those who surrendered their Army Pension and were admitted as residents of the Royal Hospital Chelsea. Out-Pensioners: those who lived ‘Out’, in the UK or abroad and received their pension in cash from agents around the country.
When was the first Chelsea Pensioner?
The chosen site, set adjacent to the River Thames in the countryside of Chelsea contained the uncompleted building of the former ‘Chelsey College’. In 1692 work was finally completed and the first Chelsea Pensioners were admitted in February 1692 and by the end of March the full complement of 476 were in residence.
Where can I find Chelsea Pensioner records?
You can then look at the Chelsea Pensioners’ service records on Findmypast (select ‘WO97′ in the series) or Ancestry (1713-1882 records here, 1760-1920 records here). The Chelsea Pensioners’ service records were created by the soldier’s last regiment as proof of his pension entitlement.
What makes you a Chelsea Pensioner?
To be eligible for admission as a Chelsea Pensioner, a candidate must be a former non-commissioned officer or soldier of the British Army who is: Over 65 years or of State Pension age (whichever is the greater)
How much do Chelsea Pensioners pay?
How much it costs you depends on how much you are paid, but it will be between 5.5% and 12.5% of your pay. Your rate will depend on which pay band you fall into. The real cost to you will be less because you do not pay tax on the amount you pay into your pension.
Do Chelsea Pensioners have their own room?
Accommodation is provided in the newly refurbished Long Wards, where you will have your own bedroom with en suite facilities and study area. In the communal lounges you can socialise with fellow Pensioners and admire the magnificent views of the Royal Hospital.
Are there any black Chelsea Pensioners?
A Black Soldier in Scarlet – Private Thomas Wells, a Sri-Lankan Chelsea Pensioner c.
Do Chelsea Pensioners give up their pensions?
On entry, In-Pensioners surrender their army pension, in return receiving board, lodging, clothing and full medical care.
How do I find my British Army records?
Service records, 1920–present Visit the GOV.UK website for information about how to request a summary of a service record from the Ministry of Defence (MOD). These are available to next of kin and members of the general public on request to the MOD, provided the subject is no longer living.
What is an out pensioner?
Eligible ex-soldiers who could not be housed in the Hospital were termed Out-Pensioners, receiving their pension from the Royal Hospital but living outside it. In-Pensioners, by contrast, surrender their army pension and live within the Royal Hospital.
Do Chelsea Pensioners have to be single?
They must be over 65 years of age, be able to live independently on the Long Wards on arrival at the Royal Hospital Chelsea and be free of any financial obligation to support a spouse or family.
Do Chelsea Pensioners wear uniform all the time?
The blues and shako uniform is worn on a daily basis by most Che sea Pensioners. It can only be worn within a two mile radius of the Royal Hospital and is often worn in the Chelsea Pensioners’ Club for social events, as well as at meal times.