I had a quick look back through recent archived threads as I recalled the very interesting posts that a number of contributors made in relation to a posting concerning women “following the drum”.

The significance of this particular “find”, I think, not having a detailed understanding of this subject, is at least threefold.

Firstly the scale – Jorge has calculated there are recorded details for almost 1200 women
Secondly, the majority (Jorge estimates around 2/30) are women who are accompanying / linked to enlisted men and non commissioned officers.
Thirdly, and most importantly, the details provided include: the name and surname, age and – most significantly, for parish registers - place of birth.

Given the recent discussion about publishers and their reticence to support worthwhile research subjects – this would appear to be a research subject that:

Has a relatively limited literature – scope for further study
Offers the potential to link Wellington and Women in the title and – even – alliteration
May appeal to specialist publishers that may be willing to consider supporting the project and
Could add a new “demographic” to the “normal” audience for a military title

I note that Verso supported Ronald Fraser’s recent book, “Napoleon’s Cursed War” – which I confess I still have not got round to reading apart from the odd skim through indexed sections out of interest. Why not Virago?

Best wishes

Anthony