Francis Peirson

Major Francis Peirson (January 1757 – 6 January 1781) was a British Army officer who served during the American War of Independence. He was killed in the Battle of Jersey, the last battle on British soil.

Early career
Educated at Warrington Academy, Peirson joined the British Army in 1772. In 1779 he was appointed to the 95th Regiment of Foot which was deployed to Jersey the following year.

Battle of Jersey
Following the capture and imprisonment of Major Moses Corbet, Commander of the Jersey Garrison, by French troops on 6 January 1781, Peirson refused French demands to surrender and took command of the Garrison. Peirson ordered his troops to hold their ground at the center of the island, and he repelled several French attacks on the position. However, he was shot in the heart by a musket ball, and died. During and after his death, the troops under his command were victorious in the Battle of Jersey.

Places named after Peirson

 * The Peirson pub is where Phillipe de Rullecourt, the opposing French General died.
 * Peirson Place is the short street leading into the Royal Square where Peirson was shot
 * Peirson Road is another street in Saint Helier