Gunner at Large - The Diary of James Wood R.A. 1746-1765

In the mid 18th century, when, but for the dedication of the House of Hanover, a professional standing army might never have developed in a country devoid of natural frontiers. In 1716 the Royal Regiment of Artillery was founded. In 1741 Woolwich Academy became the first place of military learning in Britain and in 1744 a cadet company was established. James Wood was one of the first cadets trained at Woolwich and served successively as Volunteer, Mattross, Cadet, Cadet Gunner and Fireworker in France, the Low Countries, Scotland, and for nearly 10 years in India between 1746-1765. His plain written factual diary now published for the first time describes in professional manner the day to day routine for a junior rank in the field train of the army. Periods of home service at Woolwich are omitted...