London – Kensington and Chelsea (Borough of) – National Army Museum (Note Written in Blood)

Well, this is cheery, a note written in 1810 by Joseph Fenwick in his own blood. The note reads “I am shot thro the body and arms – for God’s sake send me a surgeon, English if possible. If I do not recover God bless you all”. Unfortunately, Joseph died shortly afterwards.

The note was written to Colonel Richard Blunt and this note was given to the National Army Museum by his grandson, Lieutenant-Colonel G E E Blunt. Fenwick had been wounded at Chamusca, in Portugal, whilst fighting for the 3rd Foot Regiment (the Buffs) in the Peninsular War.