TOPIC:

My great grandfather was found on the 1881 census at "47th Brigade Depot Barracks Norbiton Kingston On Thames" as a Private. Born in Bermondsey. After speaking to a family member they told me John fought in the Boer War in South Africa, 1881 & 1899-1902. From the history of 47th Brigade it appears they became 1st & 2nd Battalion, East Surrey Regiment.
John married Caroline Menday in London in 1898, my grandmother Lucy was born in 1899 and John is listed living in London on 1901 census. Is there any possibility that he did serve in the Boer war as well as appear in London for some of the time or am I barking up the wrong tree? Could someone please help?

Thank you.