Daddy Unett

With Fathers’ Day upon us, it’s only fitting to profile a caring, compassionate and thoughtful personality from the past.

unett_daddyLieutenant Colonel Thomas Unett proved himself a capable and considerate leader.

In 1853, anxious to amuse his men, he established a popular amateur theatre and arranged for the bandmaster and Drum Major to give singing lessons.

His popularity earned him the nickname, ‘Daddy’ Unett.

During the Crimean War Unett was wounded at the Battle of the Alma, then shot through the chest whilst encouraging his men forward at Sevastopol.

He was carried from the battlefield, but died three days later.

His obituary recorded that he was, “most adored by his men, to whom he was a father and a friend.”

You can find out more about personalities from the past behind the doors of our special displays in the museum.

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