Henry William Adams

Major-General Henry William Adams CB (1805–1854) was a soldier who served in the First Opium War and died of wounds sustained during the Crimean War. He was promoted via purchase to Lieutenant on 31 December 1825, and subsequently to Captain on 10 June 1826 by purchase. Adams then purchased promotion to Major on 18 January 1839.

First Opium War

After 17 years service, Adams purchased the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the 18th Royal Irish Regiment of Foot, at the end of the action, he would transfer as Lieutenant Colonel to the 49th Foot, and appointed as a Deputy Lieutenant of Warwickshire on 3 September 1852.

Crimean War service

Adams was appointed brigadier-general on 21 February 1854 and given command of the 2nd Brigade of the 2nd Division,

Death

Adams was mentioned in despatches and severely wounded Adams died as a result of his injuries at Scutari a week later He was attended to by his wife, who had travelled from England, on his death bed,

Memorials

A tower, designed by Sir George Gilbert Scott was erected in Adams' memory in 1856 at St James' Church, Ansty, Warwickshire. A memorial plaque was also installed at the Royal Garrison Church, Portsmouth