William was a member of the 1st Battalion 71st Highland Light Infantry from 1803-1815. While on campaign in South Africa, South America, Portugal, Spain, France and Flanders he kept a diary. His final entries record his experiences at the Battle of Waterloo, and his homecoming.

Its text was first published in the Highland Light Infantry Chronicle 1920-21, but the original diary appears to be lost.

This site will gradually publish commentaries on his diary, with links and images, and hopes to research people mentioned in William's Diary and contact their descendants - Please see our BLOG
If you have an interest in William's Diary do contact us!