Dictionary of National Biography, 1885-1900/Freeburn, James

1047125Dictionary of National Biography, 1885-1900, Volume 20 — Freeburn, James1889James Burnley

FREEBURN, JAMES (1808–1876), inventor, was born in 1808 in the parish of St. Cuthbert's, Midlothian. At an early age he was apprenticed to a baker. At the age of seventeen he enlisted in the 7th battalion of the Royal Artillery, and for a time served as gunner and driver. In December 1827 he was made bombardier, in May 1831 corporal, in January 1835 sergeant, and in April 1844 sergeant-major. From May 1837 to September 1840 he served abroad in the West Indies. On his return home he began to devote his attention to the subject of explosives, and during 1846, in which year he was commissioned quartermaster of the 10th battalion Royal Artillery, he invented an elaborate series of metal and wood fuzes for exploding live shells, both on 'concussion' and by 'time.' In 1847 he effected improvements on his original idea, and his fuzes were approved by the master-general of ordnance, and adopted in her majesty's service. Freeburn continued in the Royal Artillery until 21 April 1856, when he retired with the honorary rank of captain, on retired half-pay of 10s. per diem. He died at Plumstead on 5 Aug. 1876.

[Royal Artillery Records, Woolwich; diagrams of Freeburn's inventions in the Royal Artillery Institution, Woolwich.]

J. B-y.