Grave of Crimean War Cavalryman Restored After Rediscovery

The burial site of a “hero” soldier has undergone restoration following its rediscovery by a local historian. Captain Daniel Clutterbuck, a cavalryman hailing from Corsham, Wiltshire, served with the 8th King’s Royal Irish Hussars and participated in the Charge of the Light Brigade during the Crimean War. Located at St Bartholomew’s Church in Corsham, his grave, previously obscured by weeds and bushes, has now been revitalized with the addition of a new plaque. Julian Carosi, a local historian, uncovered the soldier’s narrative while conducting research for his Corsham Revealed book series, stating: “I was amazed at such a hero who’s been forgotten about.” During the Crimean War confrontation with Russian forces, 673 soldiers advanced, resulting in 260 being killed, wounded, or captured within a 20-minute period. Captain Clutterbuck sustained a gunshot wound but survived the engagement. In commemoration of his valor, a special ceremony took place on Sunday at St Bartholomew’s Church, marking 170 years to the day since the charge occurred. The event saw the participation of current members of the Queen’s Royal Hussars, who also contributed to the grave’s restoration efforts. Mr. Carosi noted that the grave had been “completely covered with bushes and trees.” He further stated, “We cleared it all off and found the lettering on the side of the grave.” He elaborated that Captain Clutterbuck suffered a leg wound and was dismounted during the charge on 25 October 1854. Collaborating with Paul Frowde of the town’s tourist information center, they reached out to military authorities to inquire about the grave’s potential restoration. He expressed being “amazed” by the attendance at the service, and mentioned that the grave has now been restored for the benefit of future generations.