Firth of Forth Tragedies
Petty Officer Fuery, HMS. Sheldrake 03/01/1900
HMS Sheldrake
Fife Free Press - Saturday 06 January 1900
BRITISH TAR DROWNED AT GRANTON.
A seaman serving on board H.M.S. Sheldrake, lying the West Pier, Granton, was early on Wednesday morning accidentally drowned in getting on board his vessel. By some means he fell between the Norwegian steamer Nordean and the quay, and after apparently striking something in his descent sank and was drowned before assistance could be rendered.
BRITISH TAR DROWNED AT GRANTON.
A seaman serving on board H.M.S. Sheldrake, lying the West Pier, Granton, was early on Wednesday morning accidentally drowned in getting on board his vessel. By some means he fell between the Norwegian steamer Nordean and the quay, and after apparently striking something in his descent sank and was drowned before assistance could be rendered.
North British Daily Mail - Tuesday 13 March 1900
MAN O' WAR'S MAN DROWNED.
First Class Petty Officer Fuery, of H.M.S. Sheldrake, who had been missing from his ship since Thursday last has been found drowned in Granton West Harbour. Deceased who had served for 25 years in the Navy, was to have retired shortly on pension. The funeral, with full naval honours, place to-day
MAN O' WAR'S MAN DROWNED.
First Class Petty Officer Fuery, of H.M.S. Sheldrake, who had been missing from his ship since Thursday last has been found drowned in Granton West Harbour. Deceased who had served for 25 years in the Navy, was to have retired shortly on pension. The funeral, with full naval honours, place to-day
HMS Sutlej in Collision with Charles Chalmers 18/09/1903
HMS Sutlej
Ross-shire Journal - Friday 25 September 1903
Cruiser Sutlej Runs Down a Vessel Four Men Drowned.
An Aberdeen vessel, the Charles Chalmers, was sunk off the Forth on Friday morning through a collision with H.M.S. cruiser Sutlej, one of the Channel Fleet. Four men, including the captain, were drowned, and two were saved. The vessel, which is stated to have had no lights, sank almost immediately. The Charles Chalmers left Aberdeen on Thursday night on voyage to Sunderland, under command of Captain George Wishart, who was one of the most well-known shipmasters in Aberdeen. Lord Charles Beresford has written expressing his sympathy with the relatives of the men who were drowned on the Charles Chalmers on Saturday.
Cruiser Sutlej Runs Down a Vessel Four Men Drowned.
An Aberdeen vessel, the Charles Chalmers, was sunk off the Forth on Friday morning through a collision with H.M.S. cruiser Sutlej, one of the Channel Fleet. Four men, including the captain, were drowned, and two were saved. The vessel, which is stated to have had no lights, sank almost immediately. The Charles Chalmers left Aberdeen on Thursday night on voyage to Sunderland, under command of Captain George Wishart, who was one of the most well-known shipmasters in Aberdeen. Lord Charles Beresford has written expressing his sympathy with the relatives of the men who were drowned on the Charles Chalmers on Saturday.
HMS Wolf Accident 06/09/1907
HMS Wolf
Guernsey Evening Press and Star - Monday 09 September 1907
THE NAVAL BOATING DISASTER NAMES OF THE DROWNED. Following are the names of the men of H.M.S. Wolf drowned in Friday night's boating accident at Granton: Ernest Sheldrake, leading signalman, William Johnson and Alexandra Hunter, stokers.
THE NAVAL BOATING DISASTER NAMES OF THE DROWNED. Following are the names of the men of H.M.S. Wolf drowned in Friday night's boating accident at Granton: Ernest Sheldrake, leading signalman, William Johnson and Alexandra Hunter, stokers.
Western Times - Monday 09 September 1907
Bluejackets Drowned at Granton The Press Association's Edinburgh correspondent telegraphs: A boating disaster, resulting in the loss of three lives, occurred at Granton, Firth of Forth, on Friday night A number of men belonging to the torpedo flotilla lying at Granton had been on shore leave and were returning on board ship when a boat belonging to the destroyer "Wolf" was capsized a squall. All the occupants were thrown into the water, and three men, a signalman and two stokers, whose names have not yet ascertained, were drowned.
Following are the names the men H.M.S. "Wolf"' drowned Friday night's boating accident Granton! —Ernest Sheldrake, leading signalman; William Johnson and Alexander Hunter,
Edinburgh Evening News - Monday 09 September 1907
A DESTROYER'S BOAT CAPSIZED AT GRANTON.
THREE MEN DROWNED.
On Saturday morning a sad drowning fatality occurred at Granton Harbour when a number of men from the torpedo flotilla, who had been ashore on leave were returning to their vessels. One of the boats belengiug to the destroyer Wolf, after securing her complement of men, put off from Granton under sad. A strong breeze was blowing, and \then outside the harbour two of the men had their caps blown off at the same side of the boat. The. two men made a clutch at their caps, and in doing so capsized the boat, all the occupants being thrown into the water. Six of them succeeded in clinging to the boat, but the three others were never seen again. Fortunately the accident was observed from the Wolf, and the captain with all haste signalled to the other destroyers to send out their boats to render assistance. In a short space of time several boats had arrived on the scene, and succeeded in rescuing six men. Search for the three missing men continued for a considerable time, but without the discovery of any trace of them. The names of the three men drowned are: Ernest Sheldrake (25), leading. signalman; Wm. Johnson (23), stoker; and Alex. Hunter (30), stoker, all of H.M.S. Wolf. A buoy marks the spot where the fatality occurred, and dragging operations will be resumed to-day, as the bodies have not yet been recovered. An inquiry into the case will be held on board the Pathfinder, flagship of Captain Luard, who is in command of the Flotilla
Bluejackets Drowned at Granton The Press Association's Edinburgh correspondent telegraphs: A boating disaster, resulting in the loss of three lives, occurred at Granton, Firth of Forth, on Friday night A number of men belonging to the torpedo flotilla lying at Granton had been on shore leave and were returning on board ship when a boat belonging to the destroyer "Wolf" was capsized a squall. All the occupants were thrown into the water, and three men, a signalman and two stokers, whose names have not yet ascertained, were drowned.
Following are the names the men H.M.S. "Wolf"' drowned Friday night's boating accident Granton! —Ernest Sheldrake, leading signalman; William Johnson and Alexander Hunter,
Edinburgh Evening News - Monday 09 September 1907
A DESTROYER'S BOAT CAPSIZED AT GRANTON.
THREE MEN DROWNED.
On Saturday morning a sad drowning fatality occurred at Granton Harbour when a number of men from the torpedo flotilla, who had been ashore on leave were returning to their vessels. One of the boats belengiug to the destroyer Wolf, after securing her complement of men, put off from Granton under sad. A strong breeze was blowing, and \then outside the harbour two of the men had their caps blown off at the same side of the boat. The. two men made a clutch at their caps, and in doing so capsized the boat, all the occupants being thrown into the water. Six of them succeeded in clinging to the boat, but the three others were never seen again. Fortunately the accident was observed from the Wolf, and the captain with all haste signalled to the other destroyers to send out their boats to render assistance. In a short space of time several boats had arrived on the scene, and succeeded in rescuing six men. Search for the three missing men continued for a considerable time, but without the discovery of any trace of them. The names of the three men drowned are: Ernest Sheldrake (25), leading. signalman; Wm. Johnson (23), stoker; and Alex. Hunter (30), stoker, all of H.M.S. Wolf. A buoy marks the spot where the fatality occurred, and dragging operations will be resumed to-day, as the bodies have not yet been recovered. An inquiry into the case will be held on board the Pathfinder, flagship of Captain Luard, who is in command of the Flotilla
Edinburgh Evening News - Friday 20 September 1907
THE BOATING DISASTER OFF GRANTON. BLUEJACKET'S BODY RECOVERED The body of a bluejacket, supposed to be one of the sailors from H.M.S. Wolfe, drowned off Granton recently, was found last evening in Granton Harbour. The remains, which were decomposed almost beyond recognition, were removed to Edinburgh Mortuary. Three bluejackets lost their lives, but up till now this is the only body that has been recovered.
THE BOATING DISASTER OFF GRANTON. BLUEJACKET'S BODY RECOVERED The body of a bluejacket, supposed to be one of the sailors from H.M.S. Wolfe, drowned off Granton recently, was found last evening in Granton Harbour. The remains, which were decomposed almost beyond recognition, were removed to Edinburgh Mortuary. Three bluejackets lost their lives, but up till now this is the only body that has been recovered.
Edinburgh Evening News - Monday 23 September 1907
WASHED UP BY THE SEA.
On Saturday afternoon the police were informed that the body of a seaman had been found lying on the seashore at Cramond, some way east of the village. A constable visited spot and discovered that another body had been seen floating near by. It was also brought ashore. Both men were in naval uniform, apparently signalman and stoker. It will be remembered that on the 7th September one of the boats belonging to the destroyer Wolf was upset in Granton Harbour, and there seems little doubt that the two men are of the three who were drowned on that date. Dragging operations were performed for some days after the accident but without success. The bodies were conveyed to the mortuary, and have not yet been identified. The names of the men who were drowned on the 7th September are: Ernest Sheldrake (25), leading signalman; Wm. John- Pell (23)„ stoker; and Alex. Hunter (30), stoker, all of H.M.S. Wolf.
WASHED UP BY THE SEA.
On Saturday afternoon the police were informed that the body of a seaman had been found lying on the seashore at Cramond, some way east of the village. A constable visited spot and discovered that another body had been seen floating near by. It was also brought ashore. Both men were in naval uniform, apparently signalman and stoker. It will be remembered that on the 7th September one of the boats belonging to the destroyer Wolf was upset in Granton Harbour, and there seems little doubt that the two men are of the three who were drowned on that date. Dragging operations were performed for some days after the accident but without success. The bodies were conveyed to the mortuary, and have not yet been identified. The names of the men who were drowned on the 7th September are: Ernest Sheldrake (25), leading signalman; Wm. John- Pell (23)„ stoker; and Alex. Hunter (30), stoker, all of H.M.S. Wolf.
Daily Record - Monday 23 September 1907
Two bodies in an advanced state of decomposition have been washed ashore at Cramond They are believed to be those of two of the three seamen belonging to HMS Wolf who were drowned on September 6 at Granton. A body also believed to be one of the missing men washed ashore near Leith last week
Two bodies in an advanced state of decomposition have been washed ashore at Cramond They are believed to be those of two of the three seamen belonging to HMS Wolf who were drowned on September 6 at Granton. A body also believed to be one of the missing men washed ashore near Leith last week
West Lothian Courier - Friday 27 September 1907
STRANGE OMISSION AT A CRAMOND NAVAL FUNERAL
A correspondent writes from Cramond to inform us that the two bluejackets who were drowned on the 7th, and whose bodies were picked up on Saturday. were buried on Wednesday without the Church service. Roth men were laid in one grave. A firing party from the Seaforth's was present. as were also representatives-from the Coastguards stations. but no provision had been made for a clergyman, and no service was held.
Edinburgh Evening News - Monday 20 April 1908
BURIAL SERVICE AT CRAMOND.
Yesterday the Rev. J. A. J. Milne, minister of Cramond, conducted a short burial service over the graves of the seamen who were drowned at Granton when last the Fleet visited the Forth. The service was attended by several hundreds of people. A magnificent wreath was placed over one of the graves by shipmates of H.M.S. Wolf.
BURIAL SERVICE AT CRAMOND.
Yesterday the Rev. J. A. J. Milne, minister of Cramond, conducted a short burial service over the graves of the seamen who were drowned at Granton when last the Fleet visited the Forth. The service was attended by several hundreds of people. A magnificent wreath was placed over one of the graves by shipmates of H.M.S. Wolf.
Yeoman Signaller Percy Berry & Stoker Henry 0. Green HMS Forward 01/11/1907
HMS Forward
Leominster News and North West Herefordshire & Radnorshire Advertiser - Friday 08 November 1907
BLUEJACKETS DROWNED. An accident involving the loss of two members of the crew of the scout Forward, of the Home Fleet, lying off Rosyth, Firth of Forth, occurred on Friday afternoon while the ship's boat was being towed ashore by a steam pinnace. The pinnace crossed the bows of the collier Britannia from the port side, and the collier, running into the ship's boat, containing about forty liberty men, smashed it into fragments. Yeoman Signaller Percy Berry, twenty-five years of age, and Stoker Henry 0. Green, twenty. one, were drowned, but the remainder of the party were rescued by a steam pinnace and a picket boat.
BLUEJACKETS DROWNED. An accident involving the loss of two members of the crew of the scout Forward, of the Home Fleet, lying off Rosyth, Firth of Forth, occurred on Friday afternoon while the ship's boat was being towed ashore by a steam pinnace. The pinnace crossed the bows of the collier Britannia from the port side, and the collier, running into the ship's boat, containing about forty liberty men, smashed it into fragments. Yeoman Signaller Percy Berry, twenty-five years of age, and Stoker Henry 0. Green, twenty. one, were drowned, but the remainder of the party were rescued by a steam pinnace and a picket boat.
Stoker Dennison, HM Torpedo Boat No.21 13/08/1910
Dundee Courier - Wednesday 14 September 1910
TORPEDO BOAT TRAGEDY OCCURS IN KIRKCALDY BAY. STOKER FALLS OVERBOARD AND IS DROWNED. Stoker Dennison, of Torpedo Boat No. 21, despatched a letter to his mother in London saying that he would shortly be home on a few days' leave of absence. Yesterday she received a telegram telling her that her son had been drowned. No. 21, a unit of a flotilla which has been stationed in the Firth of Forth for some time, had lain overnight at Granton. Early yesterday morning the vessel left for Kirkcaldy Bay. When half-way over Dennison fell into the sea while in the act of emptying a bucket. The boat was steaming at about 18 knots. The engines were reversed, and a lifebuoy was thrown in the direction of the struggling man. He, however, was unable reach it, and before the boat pick him he sank. A Court of Inquiry into the circumstances of the tragedy was held in the afternoon board H.M.S. St George, the repair ship attached to the flotilla.
Dromore Weekly Times and West Down Herald - Saturday 24 September 1910
Stoker Dennison fell overboard from Torpedo boat No. 21 as she was crossing Kirkcaldy Bay, Firth of Forth, and the body has not been recovered.
TORPEDO BOAT TRAGEDY OCCURS IN KIRKCALDY BAY. STOKER FALLS OVERBOARD AND IS DROWNED. Stoker Dennison, of Torpedo Boat No. 21, despatched a letter to his mother in London saying that he would shortly be home on a few days' leave of absence. Yesterday she received a telegram telling her that her son had been drowned. No. 21, a unit of a flotilla which has been stationed in the Firth of Forth for some time, had lain overnight at Granton. Early yesterday morning the vessel left for Kirkcaldy Bay. When half-way over Dennison fell into the sea while in the act of emptying a bucket. The boat was steaming at about 18 knots. The engines were reversed, and a lifebuoy was thrown in the direction of the struggling man. He, however, was unable reach it, and before the boat pick him he sank. A Court of Inquiry into the circumstances of the tragedy was held in the afternoon board H.M.S. St George, the repair ship attached to the flotilla.
Dromore Weekly Times and West Down Herald - Saturday 24 September 1910
Stoker Dennison fell overboard from Torpedo boat No. 21 as she was crossing Kirkcaldy Bay, Firth of Forth, and the body has not been recovered.
Stoker James Wood HMS Syren 05/09/1913
HMS Syren
Daily Record - Saturday 06 September 1913
CAPSIZING OF A NAVY BOAT ALARMING ACCIDENT AT GRANTON.
BLUEJACKET MISSING.
Granton harbour which was the scene a few months ago of a naval disaster resulting in the loss of several valuable lives was again yesterday the theatre of a calamity to members of the Navy which but for the heroic action of British seamen would have resulted in an equally heavy death toll. In the present instance only one man is missing. The circumstances leave little room for the hope that he has escaped a watery grave. Late yesterday afternoon, while the paddle steamer William Muir was leaving Granton Harbour, stern foremost on her way to Burntisland as the ferry boat between these ports, she came into collision with a whaler belonging to HMS torpedo boat Syren which is a vessel of the Seventh Torpedo Boat flotilla at present lying in the Forth. The whaler was entering the harbour under sail and she carried complement of nine men the majority of were getting ashore on leave of absence.
IMMEDIATELY CAPSIZED
The collision took place about a hundred yards distant from the pier and the whaler was struck on the port side. She immediately capsized and all those in the boat were precipitated into the water. A full tide was running and the sea was very choppy. The position of those in the water was perilous in the extreme as they were in very close proximity to the paddles of the William Muir. Most of the seamen succeeded in getting a grip of the keel of the upturned whaler and it subsequently transpired that four of the number, realising that the whole party was doomed if they all clung to the frail craft, and being strong swimmers let go their hold and proceeded to swim in the direction of lifebelts which were thrown to them from the steamer. Fortunately these brave fellow managed to keep themselves afloat Until they were picked up by three local boatmen who had seen the mishap from the point of the west pier and who immediately proceeded to the rescue in boats Another whaler belonging to the torpedo boat Ernest came on the scene and picked up four men who had retained their hold on the boat. One of those who was rescued, a Stoker named Johnston, was suffering from bruises to the head which it is supposed were caused by his coming into contact with the blades of the steamer’s paddles. He was taken on board the tornedo boat Itchen of ill-fated memory which happened to be lying at the West Pier The ninth member of the unfortunate boat’s crew is unaccounted for and dragging operations were conducted throughout the evening. The missing man is a stoker of the name of Woods. He was the youngest member of the party and had not been many months in the Navy. Some of the men were in the water for nearly a quarter of an hour and were very exhausted when picked up.
CAPSIZING OF A NAVY BOAT ALARMING ACCIDENT AT GRANTON.
BLUEJACKET MISSING.
Granton harbour which was the scene a few months ago of a naval disaster resulting in the loss of several valuable lives was again yesterday the theatre of a calamity to members of the Navy which but for the heroic action of British seamen would have resulted in an equally heavy death toll. In the present instance only one man is missing. The circumstances leave little room for the hope that he has escaped a watery grave. Late yesterday afternoon, while the paddle steamer William Muir was leaving Granton Harbour, stern foremost on her way to Burntisland as the ferry boat between these ports, she came into collision with a whaler belonging to HMS torpedo boat Syren which is a vessel of the Seventh Torpedo Boat flotilla at present lying in the Forth. The whaler was entering the harbour under sail and she carried complement of nine men the majority of were getting ashore on leave of absence.
IMMEDIATELY CAPSIZED
The collision took place about a hundred yards distant from the pier and the whaler was struck on the port side. She immediately capsized and all those in the boat were precipitated into the water. A full tide was running and the sea was very choppy. The position of those in the water was perilous in the extreme as they were in very close proximity to the paddles of the William Muir. Most of the seamen succeeded in getting a grip of the keel of the upturned whaler and it subsequently transpired that four of the number, realising that the whole party was doomed if they all clung to the frail craft, and being strong swimmers let go their hold and proceeded to swim in the direction of lifebelts which were thrown to them from the steamer. Fortunately these brave fellow managed to keep themselves afloat Until they were picked up by three local boatmen who had seen the mishap from the point of the west pier and who immediately proceeded to the rescue in boats Another whaler belonging to the torpedo boat Ernest came on the scene and picked up four men who had retained their hold on the boat. One of those who was rescued, a Stoker named Johnston, was suffering from bruises to the head which it is supposed were caused by his coming into contact with the blades of the steamer’s paddles. He was taken on board the tornedo boat Itchen of ill-fated memory which happened to be lying at the West Pier The ninth member of the unfortunate boat’s crew is unaccounted for and dragging operations were conducted throughout the evening. The missing man is a stoker of the name of Woods. He was the youngest member of the party and had not been many months in the Navy. Some of the men were in the water for nearly a quarter of an hour and were very exhausted when picked up.
Paddle Steamer William Muir
The People - Sunday 07 September 1913
Yesterday a large boat belonging to the Syren, one of the torpedo boat destroyers lying in the Firth of Forth, was proceeding to Granton, and when near the harbour was struck by the paddle steamer William Muir, which plies between Granton and Burntisland. The boat capsized, and the occupants, six naval seamen, were thrown into the water. Five of the men were rescued, but one of them could not be traced, and is feared he was drowned.
Glossop-dale Chronicle and North Derbyshire Reporter - Friday 12 September 1913
GLOSSOP BLUEJACKET'S TRAGIC DEATH.
DROWNED NEAR GRANTON HARBOUR, FIRTH OF FORTH.
A full measure of sympathy will go out to Mr. and Mrs. Joseph A. Wood, of 12, Milltown, Glossop, in their sudden bereavement caused by the tragic death of their son James, who was the victim of a sad drowning fatality Last Friday afternoon. Deceased. who was only 19 years of age, joined the Navy just over 12 months ago, and during that period be was chiefly stationed at Portsmouth. At the time of the accident he was a member of the crew, as stoker, of the torpedo destroyer "Syren," which was acting tender to another vessel, namely, the "Dido."
Yesterday a large boat belonging to the Syren, one of the torpedo boat destroyers lying in the Firth of Forth, was proceeding to Granton, and when near the harbour was struck by the paddle steamer William Muir, which plies between Granton and Burntisland. The boat capsized, and the occupants, six naval seamen, were thrown into the water. Five of the men were rescued, but one of them could not be traced, and is feared he was drowned.
Glossop-dale Chronicle and North Derbyshire Reporter - Friday 12 September 1913
GLOSSOP BLUEJACKET'S TRAGIC DEATH.
DROWNED NEAR GRANTON HARBOUR, FIRTH OF FORTH.
A full measure of sympathy will go out to Mr. and Mrs. Joseph A. Wood, of 12, Milltown, Glossop, in their sudden bereavement caused by the tragic death of their son James, who was the victim of a sad drowning fatality Last Friday afternoon. Deceased. who was only 19 years of age, joined the Navy just over 12 months ago, and during that period be was chiefly stationed at Portsmouth. At the time of the accident he was a member of the crew, as stoker, of the torpedo destroyer "Syren," which was acting tender to another vessel, namely, the "Dido."
Stoker James Wood
On the Friday afternoon Wood was on board a whaler belonging to his ship, together with eight other Bluejackets. near Granton Harbour, Firth of Forth, when a collision occurred within 100 yards of the Granton Pier between the whaler and the steamer, - ''William Muir." The whaler was upset and complement of nine sailors thrown into the water. Most of the seamen clung to the keel of the boat, and were picked up by other boats, while a whaler from the destroyer ''Ernest " picked up the remainder. It was found, however. that one man was missing, and he was given up as having gone down and drowned. It subsequently Irene pied that the unfortunate Bluejacket as the young Glossop stoker, James Wood.
THE FAMILY'S INTIMATION.
The first intimation that the family had of the sad contingency a telegram sent from the Edinburgh Office, and received in Milltown on Saturday morning.. It was au .follows "Joseph A. Wood 12, Milltown, Glossop. Regret to report that whaler ' Syren ' was run down on Friday afternoon by a paddle steamer off Granton. It is feared your James Wood. stoker, was drowned. Will inform you further when definite news is obtained: DIDO."
This communication conveying such unfortunate news was a sad blow to deceased's parents and the other members of the family, who, when the facts became known, were the recipients of much condolence.. Later one letter was received from the Admiralty, signed by F. G. Nutt, Accountant General of the Navy, under date September 6th, 1913. which corroborated the telegraphic
intimation of the occurrence, This was followed by a further telegram regretting that no news of the finding of the body could be tendered, and the authorities could only assume that James Wood was drowned at the time of the collision. The parents of the unlucky Bluejacket wrote the Admiralty asking for permission to have the body. when found, sent to Glossop for interment. In the reply of the Admiralty. received yesterday (Thursday), it was dated that the body had not been recovered. Some sad circumstances surround the unfortunate happening, as hitherto the deceased had lent financial aid to his parents, who have fallen on evil days. His father, Mr. Joseph Wood. has been suffering from an affliction for 13 years which ham prevented him from following any employment at all. At the present time there are indications that monetary assistance will be forthcoming so far as the parents are concerned, who are particularly anxious to have the body, when recovered, brought to Glossop for burial.
Halifax Daily Guardian - Tuesday 16 September 1913
The body of Stoker James Wood, of the torpedo-boat destroyer Syren, who wad drowned owing to the capsizing of a boat in the Firth of Forth last week, was washed ashore at Granton last night.
THE FAMILY'S INTIMATION.
The first intimation that the family had of the sad contingency a telegram sent from the Edinburgh Office, and received in Milltown on Saturday morning.. It was au .follows "Joseph A. Wood 12, Milltown, Glossop. Regret to report that whaler ' Syren ' was run down on Friday afternoon by a paddle steamer off Granton. It is feared your James Wood. stoker, was drowned. Will inform you further when definite news is obtained: DIDO."
This communication conveying such unfortunate news was a sad blow to deceased's parents and the other members of the family, who, when the facts became known, were the recipients of much condolence.. Later one letter was received from the Admiralty, signed by F. G. Nutt, Accountant General of the Navy, under date September 6th, 1913. which corroborated the telegraphic
intimation of the occurrence, This was followed by a further telegram regretting that no news of the finding of the body could be tendered, and the authorities could only assume that James Wood was drowned at the time of the collision. The parents of the unlucky Bluejacket wrote the Admiralty asking for permission to have the body. when found, sent to Glossop for interment. In the reply of the Admiralty. received yesterday (Thursday), it was dated that the body had not been recovered. Some sad circumstances surround the unfortunate happening, as hitherto the deceased had lent financial aid to his parents, who have fallen on evil days. His father, Mr. Joseph Wood. has been suffering from an affliction for 13 years which ham prevented him from following any employment at all. At the present time there are indications that monetary assistance will be forthcoming so far as the parents are concerned, who are particularly anxious to have the body, when recovered, brought to Glossop for burial.
Halifax Daily Guardian - Tuesday 16 September 1913
The body of Stoker James Wood, of the torpedo-boat destroyer Syren, who wad drowned owing to the capsizing of a boat in the Firth of Forth last week, was washed ashore at Granton last night.
Glossop-dale Chronicle and North Derbyshire Reporter - Friday 19 September 1913
Glossop Bluejacket's Death By Drowning.
INTERMENT IN EDINBORO'
Earlier this weak the body the body washed ashore at Granton, on the Firth of Forth, of James Wood, of Glossop, whose tragic death was reported in our last issue. He was a stoker on the destroyer Syren, and was drowned through the capsizing of a small boat after a collision with a ferry steamer. On Tuesday the deceased's relatives at Glossop received telegraphic intimation of the recovery of the body, and stating that, unless further arrangements were made by the relatives, the funeral would take place at Warriston Cemetery, Edinboro'. . We understand that the parents desired that their son should be buried at Glossop. but on ascertaining the heavy expenditure which would be involved, decided to fall in with the views of the authorities, who had made arrangements for the interment to take place at Edinboro'. Through some misunderstanding, however, the relatives thought the interment had been fixed for Thursday, and it is stated that representatives of the family intended to make the journey, but they subsequently received a telegram that the funeral took place at Warriston Cemetery, Edinboro', on Wednesday afternoon. On Sunday next, at the Gospel Union Mission Church, Glossop, reference will be made by Peter Howton to the death of deceased, who was formerly a scholar in the Sunday School.
Glossop Bluejacket's Death By Drowning.
INTERMENT IN EDINBORO'
Earlier this weak the body the body washed ashore at Granton, on the Firth of Forth, of James Wood, of Glossop, whose tragic death was reported in our last issue. He was a stoker on the destroyer Syren, and was drowned through the capsizing of a small boat after a collision with a ferry steamer. On Tuesday the deceased's relatives at Glossop received telegraphic intimation of the recovery of the body, and stating that, unless further arrangements were made by the relatives, the funeral would take place at Warriston Cemetery, Edinboro'. . We understand that the parents desired that their son should be buried at Glossop. but on ascertaining the heavy expenditure which would be involved, decided to fall in with the views of the authorities, who had made arrangements for the interment to take place at Edinboro'. Through some misunderstanding, however, the relatives thought the interment had been fixed for Thursday, and it is stated that representatives of the family intended to make the journey, but they subsequently received a telegram that the funeral took place at Warriston Cemetery, Edinboro', on Wednesday afternoon. On Sunday next, at the Gospel Union Mission Church, Glossop, reference will be made by Peter Howton to the death of deceased, who was formerly a scholar in the Sunday School.
Leading Seaman Westbrook, H.M.S, Cochrane 01/06/1914
H.M.S, Cochrane,
Portsmouth Evening News - Monday 08 June 1914
NAVAL FUNERAL AT SOUTH QUEENFERRY. The funeral of Leading Seaman Westbrook, of H.M.S, Cochrane, of the Second Squadron, lying in the Forth, who died on Tuesday of last week of acute pneumonia, took place with full Naval honours at Dalmeny Cemetery, South Queensferry. The band of the ship, with firing party and escort, landed at the Hawes Pier about 1 p.m., and marched with gun-carriage to » Royal Naval Hospital at Butlaw. A service was conducted in St. Margaret's Episcopal Church. A number of wreaths were deposited on the grave by officers and men of various ratings belonging to Fleet in which deceased, who was well- known at Portsmouth, was a favourite. Many officers from H.M.S. Cochrane and Woolwich, and from destroyers attended the funeral.
NAVAL FUNERAL AT SOUTH QUEENFERRY. The funeral of Leading Seaman Westbrook, of H.M.S, Cochrane, of the Second Squadron, lying in the Forth, who died on Tuesday of last week of acute pneumonia, took place with full Naval honours at Dalmeny Cemetery, South Queensferry. The band of the ship, with firing party and escort, landed at the Hawes Pier about 1 p.m., and marched with gun-carriage to » Royal Naval Hospital at Butlaw. A service was conducted in St. Margaret's Episcopal Church. A number of wreaths were deposited on the grave by officers and men of various ratings belonging to Fleet in which deceased, who was well- known at Portsmouth, was a favourite. Many officers from H.M.S. Cochrane and Woolwich, and from destroyers attended the funeral.
Norman Mackenzie HMT Isaac Walton 12/08/1915
Highland News - Saturday 25 September 1915
TOLSTA R.N.R. DROWNED.—News has been received in Tolsta, of the death of John Mackenzie, Royal Naval Reservist, son of Mr Norman Mackenzie, 48 Nerth Tolsta. Deceased, who was 34 years of age, was drowned off H.M. Trawler Isaac Walton in Granton Harbour on 12th August. He was a fine specimen of the Lewis seaman, and was highly esteemed by his officers and shipmates. He leaves a widow and three children for whom deep sympathy is felt.
TOLSTA R.N.R. DROWNED.—News has been received in Tolsta, of the death of John Mackenzie, Royal Naval Reservist, son of Mr Norman Mackenzie, 48 Nerth Tolsta. Deceased, who was 34 years of age, was drowned off H.M. Trawler Isaac Walton in Granton Harbour on 12th August. He was a fine specimen of the Lewis seaman, and was highly esteemed by his officers and shipmates. He leaves a widow and three children for whom deep sympathy is felt.
Whaler from H.M.S. Larkspur. 09/06/1919
Yorkshire Evening Post - Saturday 14 June 1919
NAVAL BOAT UPSET. SEVEN MEN OF MINESWEPERS CREW DROWNED.
Seven men have lost their lives through the upsetting of a naval liberty boat in the Firth of Forth. Four other men were saved. The ill-fated boat, it appears, belonged the minesweeper Larkspur. She was between the minesweeper and Granton pier in boisterous weather when a heavy sea caused her to capsize. The-first whispers of the tragedy led to wild rumours in the neighbourhood of a disaster of much greater magnitude than fortunately proves to be the case. Although the accident occurred not far from the pier at Granton, the men had gone down before assistance could reach them.
Globe - Saturday 14 June 1919
“HUSH” NAVAL MISHAP NEWS LEAKED OUT FOUR DAYS AFTER. [From Our Correspondent.'] Edinburgh, Saturday.—The boating calamity at Granton Naval Base, where seven sailors lost their lives, occurred last Monday, although it has only now leaked out through the relatives being officially notified. The disaster' took place almost at the same spot where two naval boats foundered with considerable loss of life within the last five years. An eye-witness of the latest mishap states that the boat, a whaler 20ft., set out from the Larkspur, one of the mine-sweeping flotilla now on their way to the Baltic. There were eleven men board, a number the boat was able to carry, and shortly after leaving the Larkspur they hoisted a small sail. The wind was squally, and when entering the harbour mouth the boat was steered to the Lee Pier and caught in the swirling tide. The sheet must have been too tight, for the boat heeled and foundered at once, and although only fifty yards from the land only four were saved. This swirl is known locally as the Porridge Pot by reason of its force.
Tamworth Herald - Saturday 21 June 1919
SEVEN NAVAL MEN DROWNED. MINESWEEPER'S BOAT CAPSIZED. While eleven men from H.M.S. Larkspur, s> minesweeper lying in the Firth of Forth, were proceeding to Granton Pier in a small boat in a rough sea, a heavy wave capsized the craft and seven of the occupants were drowned. The names of the victims are:
Ernest Read (or Bevel), Plymouth.
Robert Harman, Finsbury Park, London.
Walter Herdman, Gloucester.
John Fraser Ross, Edinburgh.
James Butler, Edinburgh.
John Meldrum, Edinburgh;
and Richard Rennie, address unknown.
NAVAL BOAT UPSET. SEVEN MEN OF MINESWEPERS CREW DROWNED.
Seven men have lost their lives through the upsetting of a naval liberty boat in the Firth of Forth. Four other men were saved. The ill-fated boat, it appears, belonged the minesweeper Larkspur. She was between the minesweeper and Granton pier in boisterous weather when a heavy sea caused her to capsize. The-first whispers of the tragedy led to wild rumours in the neighbourhood of a disaster of much greater magnitude than fortunately proves to be the case. Although the accident occurred not far from the pier at Granton, the men had gone down before assistance could reach them.
Globe - Saturday 14 June 1919
“HUSH” NAVAL MISHAP NEWS LEAKED OUT FOUR DAYS AFTER. [From Our Correspondent.'] Edinburgh, Saturday.—The boating calamity at Granton Naval Base, where seven sailors lost their lives, occurred last Monday, although it has only now leaked out through the relatives being officially notified. The disaster' took place almost at the same spot where two naval boats foundered with considerable loss of life within the last five years. An eye-witness of the latest mishap states that the boat, a whaler 20ft., set out from the Larkspur, one of the mine-sweeping flotilla now on their way to the Baltic. There were eleven men board, a number the boat was able to carry, and shortly after leaving the Larkspur they hoisted a small sail. The wind was squally, and when entering the harbour mouth the boat was steered to the Lee Pier and caught in the swirling tide. The sheet must have been too tight, for the boat heeled and foundered at once, and although only fifty yards from the land only four were saved. This swirl is known locally as the Porridge Pot by reason of its force.
Tamworth Herald - Saturday 21 June 1919
SEVEN NAVAL MEN DROWNED. MINESWEEPER'S BOAT CAPSIZED. While eleven men from H.M.S. Larkspur, s> minesweeper lying in the Firth of Forth, were proceeding to Granton Pier in a small boat in a rough sea, a heavy wave capsized the craft and seven of the occupants were drowned. The names of the victims are:
Ernest Read (or Bevel), Plymouth.
Robert Harman, Finsbury Park, London.
Walter Herdman, Gloucester.
John Fraser Ross, Edinburgh.
James Butler, Edinburgh.
John Meldrum, Edinburgh;
and Richard Rennie, address unknown.
