This man died young from pleurisy but had a fascinating & interesting historical life. Copies of three articles published in the Winnipeg Free Press along with copies of his obituary in the Reformer, Norfolk Co. Ontario are proof of this:
Owen Coombs came to Manitoba with the 2nd expeditionary force under Scott in 1871. He was discharged but rejoined the 90th when the Louis Riel Rebellion broke out is of historical note. Following is his Military career:
Owen Coombs came to Manitoba with the 2nd expeditionary force under Scott in 1871. He was discharged but rejoined the 90th when the Louis Riel Rebellion broke out is of historical note. Following is his Military career:
- 1872: Place where engaged ... Fort Garry; Rank ... Sergeant; Regimental Number ... 23; Corps: Prov. Batt; Remarks ... Discharge 6 May 1873. Served twice not entitled to a second grant. Event: #M006 Return of Men who served in the Militia, Volunteer Force in Manitoba, not entitled to a grant of land in consequences of having been dismissed, or having deserted, or having served more than once, and has already received a Grant, or enlisted in the Province of Manitoba. Department of the Secretary of State, Ottawa, 3rd March 1875, page (Please note this was the 2 time serving for Owen L Coombs he had a grant of land in the St. Anne's area previously.)
Understanding that Owen L Coombs was one of the men accompanying Louis Riel to Regina to stand trial for treason. Have to wonder if he met my great uncle Henry Allbright??
Marriage extract from the Diocese of Ruperts' Land (certified):
- Owen L COOMBS, bachelor of St. James Parish in the Province of Manitoba and Catherine McNAB, widow of St. James Parish in said Province of Manitoba were married in this Church by Licence with Consent of Parties this thirteenth Day of March In the year One Thousand eight hundred and seventy-three by me: W Cyperian Pinkham, Incumbant. This marriage was solemnized between: Sergt. O.L.Coombs (his signature) & Catherine McNab (her signature). In the presence of David M Hamilton, (signature) & Sophia Pruden (signature)."
Above extracted from St. James' Register #5, Page #21, Entry 61.
Death:
- Burials in Anglican Church of Canada Diocese of Rupert's Land Archives
- Owen L. Coombs, Male, aged 36, Policeman CPR, B in Ontario COD Pleurisy. Name of Physician D Clark "signed" Date of Burial 15 Feb 88, Church of England, Caretaker Geo Fortney, buried in Grave 6 Lot 3, Block 22.