Chain men, surveyors to revision to Ordnance Survey c 1898-1904, Sappers Royal Engineers.

Among the chain men were neighbours Jeremiah Crowley, Ahagouna,  and Skuse Clashadoo, Durrus.   Jeremiah emigrated to San Francisco where his siblings were and died young 1926 in an accident leaving a large fortune, in present day terms c €2.5 million.  Skuse joined the Royal Engineers as a Sapper as did many of the chain men.

Many young men were employed towards the end of the 19th century as ‘chain men’ or surveyors unqualified in the Ordnance Survey. This may may for a revision of the maps in connection with the preparation of Estate Maps for the transfer of land from Landlord to the Tenants.

When the exercise was over many emigrated to the USA but quite a number joined the British Army where they tended to join the Royal Engineers as sappers. Presumably the training they received was of use there.

Courtesy Mrs. and Mr. Camier.

The enclosed photos show a chain link.