HMS Otway
HMS Otway. 22/07/1917
Displacement: 12077 grt.
Length: 163.4 m. Beam: 19.3 m. Draught: 11.5 m.
Propulsion: 2 x 4 cyl. Quadruple expansion steam engines, dual shaft, 2 screws
Machinery:
Complement: 376 officers and men.
Men Lost: 10
Armament: Armed Merchant ship.
Displacement: 12077 grt.
Length: 163.4 m. Beam: 19.3 m. Draught: 11.5 m.
Propulsion: 2 x 4 cyl. Quadruple expansion steam engines, dual shaft, 2 screws
Machinery:
Complement: 376 officers and men.
Men Lost: 10
Armament: Armed Merchant ship.
RMS Otway was built by Fairfield Shipbuilding & Engineering Co. Ltd., Glasgow in 1908 for the Orient Pacific Line. The liner was used on the Great Britain to Australia route.
Shrewsbury Chronicle - Friday 27 November 1908
ANOTHER ORIENT STEAMER LAUNCHED. - On Saturday the Fairfield Shipbuilding and Engineering Company, Limited, launched from their yard, at Govan. a new twin-screw 12.000-ton steamer for the Orient Steam Navigation Company. This is the second vessel launched on the Clyde for the Orient Company during the present month, and a third, now building at the London and Glasgow Shipbuilding Company's yard, is almost ready for launching. Further two vessels of similar tonnage are being built for the Orient Company at Belfast. Thus in a period of slack trade the two great shipbuilding centres of the Clyde and Belfast are indebted to the Commonwealth of Australia and the Orient Company for a substantial measure of employment. Saturday's launch was most successful, the vessel being named the "Otway" by Mrs. Frederick Green, wife of one of the managers of the Orient Line. By their size and the luxurious character of their accommodation, the "Otway" and her four great sisters will make the voyage between England and Australia a trip of pleasure (an important feature is the vast improvement in the accommodation for the third class passengers) while the important provision made for the carriage of different classes of perishable products in separate holds at suitable temperatures should prove an important factor in the development of the re- sources of the Commonwealth.
ANOTHER ORIENT STEAMER LAUNCHED. - On Saturday the Fairfield Shipbuilding and Engineering Company, Limited, launched from their yard, at Govan. a new twin-screw 12.000-ton steamer for the Orient Steam Navigation Company. This is the second vessel launched on the Clyde for the Orient Company during the present month, and a third, now building at the London and Glasgow Shipbuilding Company's yard, is almost ready for launching. Further two vessels of similar tonnage are being built for the Orient Company at Belfast. Thus in a period of slack trade the two great shipbuilding centres of the Clyde and Belfast are indebted to the Commonwealth of Australia and the Orient Company for a substantial measure of employment. Saturday's launch was most successful, the vessel being named the "Otway" by Mrs. Frederick Green, wife of one of the managers of the Orient Line. By their size and the luxurious character of their accommodation, the "Otway" and her four great sisters will make the voyage between England and Australia a trip of pleasure (an important feature is the vast improvement in the accommodation for the third class passengers) while the important provision made for the carriage of different classes of perishable products in separate holds at suitable temperatures should prove an important factor in the development of the re- sources of the Commonwealth.
Images from LiWD Collection.
SS Otway was requisitioned as Armed Merchant Cruiser HMS Otway in 1914 and joined the 10th Cruiser Squadron. Most patrols were conducted between NW Scotland and Iceland.
The Loss
The following information is taken from evidence given in the Court of Enquiry into loss of HMS Otway (ADM137/3311)
At 2.45 pm on the 22nd July 1917 HMS Otway left Loch Ewe for a patrol off Rockall under the command of Commodore Colomb. At 8.00 pm HMS Otway was 8 miles off the Butt of Lewis. 10.10pm 14 miles abeam of Sula Sgeir.
At 10.13 pm in position 58 54N 6 28W in a calm sea a periscope was spotted off the port bow at about 1000 yards. The order was given to turn NE and put the periscope astern but almost immediately after the ship had turned a torpedo struck the port propeller ''A'' bracket causing the aft part of the ship to flood. The explosion had killed ten seamen who were sleeping in the bag flat directly above the ''A'' Bracket.
It was established by the carpenter that the damaged ship was going to sink so the engines were put full steam ahead and tried to make for the island of North Rona at 15 knots. The gun crews fired at the periscope.
A message from HMS Otway to S.O 10th Cruiser Squadron read:
''Course south 85 east magnetic steering towards North Rona Island 15 knots'' (no time recorded)
A message from R.A. Stornoway to HMS Otway read:
''Sending 3 whalers, 2 trawlers 2 yachts and tug 2325'' (Sent but no acknowledgment received)
After a while the port shaft broke causing more damage and the engine room started to flood. At 11.00 pm the ship was stopped and the order given to abandon ship. All the crew and wounded left the vessel but Commodore Colomb, his Steward and the First Lieutenant stayed aboard to ensure no one was left behind and to prevent any possible boarding by the U boat crew. The secret papers were dumped overboard in a steel box and depth charges set to safe.
Just after midnight the Commodore called back one of the lifeboats as the ship was settling fast and the three men left the ship.
At 12.15 am HMS Otway sank by the stern.
All the boats and rafts stayed together throughout the night and at 6.15am they were located by the whaler 'Rorqual' 10 miles west (T) Sulisker. 51 officers & 315 ratings were rescued and taken to Stornoway arriving there at 1.30pm. Owing to the lack of accommodation, at 10 pm, the officers and crew were taken in three armed trawlers to Kyle of Loch Alsh and from there by train to Inverness.
At 2.45 pm on the 22nd July 1917 HMS Otway left Loch Ewe for a patrol off Rockall under the command of Commodore Colomb. At 8.00 pm HMS Otway was 8 miles off the Butt of Lewis. 10.10pm 14 miles abeam of Sula Sgeir.
At 10.13 pm in position 58 54N 6 28W in a calm sea a periscope was spotted off the port bow at about 1000 yards. The order was given to turn NE and put the periscope astern but almost immediately after the ship had turned a torpedo struck the port propeller ''A'' bracket causing the aft part of the ship to flood. The explosion had killed ten seamen who were sleeping in the bag flat directly above the ''A'' Bracket.
It was established by the carpenter that the damaged ship was going to sink so the engines were put full steam ahead and tried to make for the island of North Rona at 15 knots. The gun crews fired at the periscope.
A message from HMS Otway to S.O 10th Cruiser Squadron read:
''Course south 85 east magnetic steering towards North Rona Island 15 knots'' (no time recorded)
A message from R.A. Stornoway to HMS Otway read:
''Sending 3 whalers, 2 trawlers 2 yachts and tug 2325'' (Sent but no acknowledgment received)
After a while the port shaft broke causing more damage and the engine room started to flood. At 11.00 pm the ship was stopped and the order given to abandon ship. All the crew and wounded left the vessel but Commodore Colomb, his Steward and the First Lieutenant stayed aboard to ensure no one was left behind and to prevent any possible boarding by the U boat crew. The secret papers were dumped overboard in a steel box and depth charges set to safe.
Just after midnight the Commodore called back one of the lifeboats as the ship was settling fast and the three men left the ship.
At 12.15 am HMS Otway sank by the stern.
All the boats and rafts stayed together throughout the night and at 6.15am they were located by the whaler 'Rorqual' 10 miles west (T) Sulisker. 51 officers & 315 ratings were rescued and taken to Stornoway arriving there at 1.30pm. Owing to the lack of accommodation, at 10 pm, the officers and crew were taken in three armed trawlers to Kyle of Loch Alsh and from there by train to Inverness.
The Daily Chronicle, July 26th 1917
Daily Record - Thursday 26 July 1917
BRITISH NAVAL LOSSES--ARMED CRUISER AND SUBMARINE SUNK --BRITISH OFFICIAL.
Press Bureau, Wednesday. The Secretary of the Admiralty makes the following announcement; H.M. armed mercantile cruiser Otway (Captain Philip H. Colomb, R.N.) was torpedoed the 22nd inst in Northern waters and subsequently sank. There were ten men killed by the explosion. All the officers and remainder of the ship’s company were saved.
An official Wireless communique from Berlin on 22nd July states that H.M. submarine (Lieut. Ingleby S. Jefferson, R.N.) has been sunk an enemy submarine, the only survivor, a stoker (name not given), having been taken prisoner. All the next-of-kin in both cases have been informed. The Otway was twin screw steamer of 12,000 tons, built at Fairfield in 1909. She was owned by the Orient Steam Navigation Company.
Note: The Submarine mentioned above is HMS C-34
BRITISH NAVAL LOSSES--ARMED CRUISER AND SUBMARINE SUNK --BRITISH OFFICIAL.
Press Bureau, Wednesday. The Secretary of the Admiralty makes the following announcement; H.M. armed mercantile cruiser Otway (Captain Philip H. Colomb, R.N.) was torpedoed the 22nd inst in Northern waters and subsequently sank. There were ten men killed by the explosion. All the officers and remainder of the ship’s company were saved.
An official Wireless communique from Berlin on 22nd July states that H.M. submarine (Lieut. Ingleby S. Jefferson, R.N.) has been sunk an enemy submarine, the only survivor, a stoker (name not given), having been taken prisoner. All the next-of-kin in both cases have been informed. The Otway was twin screw steamer of 12,000 tons, built at Fairfield in 1909. She was owned by the Orient Steam Navigation Company.
Note: The Submarine mentioned above is HMS C-34
Hendon & Finchley Times - Friday 03 August 1917
SAVED FROM TORPEDOED VESSEL. FINCHLEY MAN’S EXPERIENCE.
The Admiralty reported last week that H.M. armed mercantile cruiser Otway” was torpedoed in northern waters on Sunday, July 22nd. Mr. and Mrs. W. T. Warner, of 6, Melita-Villas. Ballards-Lane, whose son, Pte. Robert A. Warner, was on the vessel, were in suspense as to his ultimate fate till last Saturday morning, when he unexpectedly arrived home quite safe and well. Pte. Warner, who is in the Royal Marine Light Infantry, joined two months after war was declared. He told a thrilling story the attack by the German submarine. The ship's company after taking the boats had to row about for several hours till they were picked up. Six vessels answered the S.O.S. signals which were sent up. Mr. and Mrs. Warner have four sons in the Army, two the Royal Flying Corps, one the Royal Navy, and Pte. Warner the R.M.L.I.
SAVED FROM TORPEDOED VESSEL. FINCHLEY MAN’S EXPERIENCE.
The Admiralty reported last week that H.M. armed mercantile cruiser Otway” was torpedoed in northern waters on Sunday, July 22nd. Mr. and Mrs. W. T. Warner, of 6, Melita-Villas. Ballards-Lane, whose son, Pte. Robert A. Warner, was on the vessel, were in suspense as to his ultimate fate till last Saturday morning, when he unexpectedly arrived home quite safe and well. Pte. Warner, who is in the Royal Marine Light Infantry, joined two months after war was declared. He told a thrilling story the attack by the German submarine. The ship's company after taking the boats had to row about for several hours till they were picked up. Six vessels answered the S.O.S. signals which were sent up. Mr. and Mrs. Warner have four sons in the Army, two the Royal Flying Corps, one the Royal Navy, and Pte. Warner the R.M.L.I.
KTB UC-49
The following information is taken from the logbook of UC-49. (all times are from U boat log and have a two hour difference)
22/07/1917.
Wind: SE 3 Sea State: 2 Visibility: Very Clear.
At 8.00pm. The KTB gives the UC49 position as 59 17N 6 20W course 240 deg and says North Rona and Sulisker are sighted.
At 10pm a course change is noted to 150 deg.
11.30pm. Smoke from steamship is seen and UC 49 dives to get in position for attack.
11.55pm. A large steamer, high speed, steering a zig zag course of roughly 240 deg.
23/07/1917.
00.22am. Bow port tube fails to fire so U boat turns to use stern tube. One torpedo is fired. After 1 minute 20 second a hit on the port side stern of the ship is seen and heard. The ship is described as being at least 10,000 ton, two funnels and two masts, a promenade deck and at least 160m long and its thought may be P & O liner.
The ship is then reported to be steering a course 040 deg running away. Cleared for second shot.
02.30am. Steamer sinks in position 59 00N 6 13W. Also states many lifeboats and more Destroyers observed.
02.40am. UC49 dives to 30m and leaves the area course 270 deg.
22/07/1917.
Wind: SE 3 Sea State: 2 Visibility: Very Clear.
At 8.00pm. The KTB gives the UC49 position as 59 17N 6 20W course 240 deg and says North Rona and Sulisker are sighted.
At 10pm a course change is noted to 150 deg.
11.30pm. Smoke from steamship is seen and UC 49 dives to get in position for attack.
11.55pm. A large steamer, high speed, steering a zig zag course of roughly 240 deg.
23/07/1917.
00.22am. Bow port tube fails to fire so U boat turns to use stern tube. One torpedo is fired. After 1 minute 20 second a hit on the port side stern of the ship is seen and heard. The ship is described as being at least 10,000 ton, two funnels and two masts, a promenade deck and at least 160m long and its thought may be P & O liner.
The ship is then reported to be steering a course 040 deg running away. Cleared for second shot.
- 1.00am. Periscope being shot at with medium calibre guns. Dived to 30m on following course.
- 1.30am. Surfaced. The ship has stopped and seen to be sinking by the stern.
- 1.40am. Submerged 10m. Lifeboats are observed being launched. Also KTB reports of there being Destroyers around.
02.30am. Steamer sinks in position 59 00N 6 13W. Also states many lifeboats and more Destroyers observed.
02.40am. UC49 dives to 30m and leaves the area course 270 deg.
Map from UC-49 KTB
The Wreck Today.
The UKHO wreck card 777 has position 58 54N 06 28W PA (Position Approximate). The wreck card was created in 1919 and marked with ''obsolete wreck symbol'' (1917) (PA) . This was amended in 1929 to NDWPA. (Non Dangerous Wreck Position Approximate). The charted wreck was deleted from charts in 1983.
Below: Chart 2386 -North Coast of Scotland - Cape Wrath to the Flannan Isles including the northern parts of The North Minch and Lewis (UKHO)
Below: Chart 2386 -North Coast of Scotland - Cape Wrath to the Flannan Isles including the northern parts of The North Minch and Lewis (UKHO)
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Main chart 2386 with Butt of Lewis. (UKHO) 1924. 1942.
A search for HMS Otway in the charted position was conducted in 1976. This was part of a larger survey by HMS Herald using a SIMRAD SONAR. The wreck was not located.
A further search in 1983 by GUARDLINE also failed to find the wreck with echo sounder and DCS3 ( Dual Control Side Scan Sonar )
The wreck card was amended to DEAD and chart symbol removed from charts.
The original position on the wreck card in taken from the radio message where HMS Otway was torpedoed.
From both the CoE and KTB it is known that HMS Otway attempted to reach North Rona and steamed for approximately 40 minutes at 15 knots in a NE direction.
A further search in 1983 by GUARDLINE also failed to find the wreck with echo sounder and DCS3 ( Dual Control Side Scan Sonar )
The wreck card was amended to DEAD and chart symbol removed from charts.
The original position on the wreck card in taken from the radio message where HMS Otway was torpedoed.
From both the CoE and KTB it is known that HMS Otway attempted to reach North Rona and steamed for approximately 40 minutes at 15 knots in a NE direction.
2020 Search
MV Clasina
In June 2020 a search was conducted by SULA Diving from the dive vessel M.V. Clasina, skippered by Bob Anderson.
The survey was conducted using both the C Max CM2 Side Scan Sonar and Magnetometer.
The search was based on three main areas on interest, the estimated position HMS Otway could have reached after being torpedoed, the UC49 KTB given position for the sinking and a marked obstruction (PA) in 58 57.700N 06 15.930W reported in 1992.
The survey was conducted using both the C Max CM2 Side Scan Sonar and Magnetometer.
The search was based on three main areas on interest, the estimated position HMS Otway could have reached after being torpedoed, the UC49 KTB given position for the sinking and a marked obstruction (PA) in 58 57.700N 06 15.930W reported in 1992.
Above Images.
Top : All the information from various records plotted to give potential search area. The red wreck symbol is U boat KTB position for sinking
Bottom left: Base map for the C Max sonar software MaxView with shaded area being area coverage by Side Scan Sonar swath. Bottom middle : Side Scan Sonar with Magnetometer data overlaid with SonarWiz 7 software.
Bottom Right: Rocky outcrop just south of UC49 position for sinking of HMS Otway.
Nothing was located around the position that UC-49 noted for the sinking position in the KTB. The area was mainly flat sand seabed with the odd outcrop of bedrock and any large wreck in this location would be obvious on the side scan data and would have been confirmed by the magnetometer.
The magnetometer survey gave three areas of response, All were surveyed with side scan sonar and considered possibly to be geology. Two were around a large cluster of rocks to the south of the position given in the KTB (image bottom right) which gave a slight magnetic reading. A much larger reading to the west showed flat seabed on the side scan sonar.
The obstruction PA found in 1992 was searched and found to be rock within the chart symbol with no magnetic influence.
Further surveys to locate HMS Otway are planned. (Note: new information received 21/07/2020 has led to a reassessment of the search area)
Top : All the information from various records plotted to give potential search area. The red wreck symbol is U boat KTB position for sinking
Bottom left: Base map for the C Max sonar software MaxView with shaded area being area coverage by Side Scan Sonar swath. Bottom middle : Side Scan Sonar with Magnetometer data overlaid with SonarWiz 7 software.
Bottom Right: Rocky outcrop just south of UC49 position for sinking of HMS Otway.
Nothing was located around the position that UC-49 noted for the sinking position in the KTB. The area was mainly flat sand seabed with the odd outcrop of bedrock and any large wreck in this location would be obvious on the side scan data and would have been confirmed by the magnetometer.
The magnetometer survey gave three areas of response, All were surveyed with side scan sonar and considered possibly to be geology. Two were around a large cluster of rocks to the south of the position given in the KTB (image bottom right) which gave a slight magnetic reading. A much larger reading to the west showed flat seabed on the side scan sonar.
The obstruction PA found in 1992 was searched and found to be rock within the chart symbol with no magnetic influence.
Further surveys to locate HMS Otway are planned. (Note: new information received 21/07/2020 has led to a reassessment of the search area)
THE CREW.
Name - LEWIN William James
DOB - 23rd December 1898
Place of Birth - West Ham, Essex
Parents - James and Annie
Early History - Baptised on 28/04/1899 at St Stephen’s Parish, Upton Park
1901 census - Living at 24 Khartoum Road, West Ham with his parents and 2 month old brother; William was aged 2. 1911 census - The eldest of 7 children, William was aged 12 and living at 60 Northern Road, Plaistow with his parents and siblings, with extended family visiting.
Rank - Ordinary Seaman J 65764 (Ch) Formerly RNVR 28241
Service History - Joined the Royal Navy from the RNVR on 25th January 1917 for the duration of hostilities. Recorded as 5’8” tall with black hair and blue eyes with scars on his left leg and left hand. He was stationed at HMS PEMBROKE I until 21st March 1917, dispatched to join HMS OTWAY the following day and was with the ship for just 4 months before he died.
Essex Newsman - Saturday 11 August 1917
Seaman Wm. James Lewin, H.M.S. Otway, one of the 10 men killed when the ship was sunk by a torpedo, worked at Silvertown. He was 18 years of age.
Essex Times - Saturday 04 August 1917
Ord. Seaman William James Irwin. H.M.S. Otway, one of the ten men killed by the explosion when the ship was sunk by a torpedo on July 22nd. He was an old Credon-road schoolboy, and up to the time he was called up worked at Loders and Nucoline Ltd., Silvertown. He was only 18 1/2 years of age.
Leytonstone Express and Independent - Saturday 18 August 1917
Seaman Wm. James Lewin, H.M.S. Otway, one of the ten men killed when the ship was sunk by a torpedo, worked at Silvertown. He was 18 years of age.
Sources:
England & Wales, Civil Registration Birth Index, 1837-1915 - FreeBMD
Essex, England, Church of England Births and Baptisms, 1813-1918 Essex Record Office; Chelmsford, Essex, England; Essex Church of England Parish Registers
1901 & 1911 England Census
Royal Navy Registers of Seamen's Services, 1848-1939 National Archives Royal Navy Registers of Seamen's Services; Class: ADM 188; Piece: 778
CWGC Register
British Army and Navy Birth, Marriage and Death Records, 1730-1960 National Archives of the UK; Kew, Surrey, England; Admiralty: Naval Casualties, Indexes, War Grave Rolls and Statistics Book, First World War.; Class: ADM 242; Piece 009 (1914 - 1919)
British Army and Navy Birth, Marriage and Death Records, 1730-1960
WWI Pension Ledgers and Index Cards, 1914-1923 Western Front Association; London, England; Pension Record Cards; Reference: 117/0562/LEW-LEW
Photo source - Ancestry, Stephen Jacks
Researched by Wendy Sadler
DOB - 23rd December 1898
Place of Birth - West Ham, Essex
Parents - James and Annie
Early History - Baptised on 28/04/1899 at St Stephen’s Parish, Upton Park
1901 census - Living at 24 Khartoum Road, West Ham with his parents and 2 month old brother; William was aged 2. 1911 census - The eldest of 7 children, William was aged 12 and living at 60 Northern Road, Plaistow with his parents and siblings, with extended family visiting.
Rank - Ordinary Seaman J 65764 (Ch) Formerly RNVR 28241
Service History - Joined the Royal Navy from the RNVR on 25th January 1917 for the duration of hostilities. Recorded as 5’8” tall with black hair and blue eyes with scars on his left leg and left hand. He was stationed at HMS PEMBROKE I until 21st March 1917, dispatched to join HMS OTWAY the following day and was with the ship for just 4 months before he died.
Essex Newsman - Saturday 11 August 1917
Seaman Wm. James Lewin, H.M.S. Otway, one of the 10 men killed when the ship was sunk by a torpedo, worked at Silvertown. He was 18 years of age.
Essex Times - Saturday 04 August 1917
Ord. Seaman William James Irwin. H.M.S. Otway, one of the ten men killed by the explosion when the ship was sunk by a torpedo on July 22nd. He was an old Credon-road schoolboy, and up to the time he was called up worked at Loders and Nucoline Ltd., Silvertown. He was only 18 1/2 years of age.
Leytonstone Express and Independent - Saturday 18 August 1917
Seaman Wm. James Lewin, H.M.S. Otway, one of the ten men killed when the ship was sunk by a torpedo, worked at Silvertown. He was 18 years of age.
Sources:
England & Wales, Civil Registration Birth Index, 1837-1915 - FreeBMD
Essex, England, Church of England Births and Baptisms, 1813-1918 Essex Record Office; Chelmsford, Essex, England; Essex Church of England Parish Registers
1901 & 1911 England Census
Royal Navy Registers of Seamen's Services, 1848-1939 National Archives Royal Navy Registers of Seamen's Services; Class: ADM 188; Piece: 778
CWGC Register
British Army and Navy Birth, Marriage and Death Records, 1730-1960 National Archives of the UK; Kew, Surrey, England; Admiralty: Naval Casualties, Indexes, War Grave Rolls and Statistics Book, First World War.; Class: ADM 242; Piece 009 (1914 - 1919)
British Army and Navy Birth, Marriage and Death Records, 1730-1960
WWI Pension Ledgers and Index Cards, 1914-1923 Western Front Association; London, England; Pension Record Cards; Reference: 117/0562/LEW-LEW
Photo source - Ancestry, Stephen Jacks
Researched by Wendy Sadler
Name - ROWE Arthur Harold
DOB - 18th November 1890
Place of Birth - Colchester, Essex
Parents - Arthur Rowe and Susan Cullingford
Early History -
1891 census - first mentioned aged 5 months old. He lived at 52 Roman Road, Colchester with his parents, his father Arthur a saddler in the town.
1901 census - The family had since moved from Roman Road and 10 years later lived at 58 Rawstorn Road, Colchester; Arthur was aged 10.
1911 census -.The family lived at 3 Salisbury Avenue, Colchester. Arthur Snr was an employer in saddle making and Arthur Jnr worked as a clerk at a Brewers Malting. Arthur was the couple’s only child.
Rank - Ordinary Seaman J53425/ Formerly RNVR Y680
Service History - Arthur joined HMS PEMBROKE I for training on 23rd May 1916, serving with the Navy for the duration of the hostilities. He was 5’11” tall with brown hair and brown eyes and was rated as an Ordinary Seaman. He left PEMBROKE I on 4th July 1916 and was posted to HMAV OTWAY the following day where he remained in service until he was killed along with his ship mates on 22nd July 1917.
He was awarded the Victory and British medals upon his death, aged 26
Sources:
General Register Office
1891, 1901 & 1911 England Census
Royal Navy Registers of Seamen's Services, 1848-1939 National Archives Royal Navy Registers of Seamen's Services; Class: ADM 188; Piece: 753
CWGC Register
England & Wales, National Probate Calendar (Index of Wills and Administrations), 1858-1995
UK and Ireland, Find A Grave Index, 1300s-Current
Royal Navy and Royal Marine War Graves Roll, 1914-1919 TNA Series: ADM 242/10; Scan Number: 0199
Researched by Wendy Sadler
DOB - 18th November 1890
Place of Birth - Colchester, Essex
Parents - Arthur Rowe and Susan Cullingford
Early History -
1891 census - first mentioned aged 5 months old. He lived at 52 Roman Road, Colchester with his parents, his father Arthur a saddler in the town.
1901 census - The family had since moved from Roman Road and 10 years later lived at 58 Rawstorn Road, Colchester; Arthur was aged 10.
1911 census -.The family lived at 3 Salisbury Avenue, Colchester. Arthur Snr was an employer in saddle making and Arthur Jnr worked as a clerk at a Brewers Malting. Arthur was the couple’s only child.
Rank - Ordinary Seaman J53425/ Formerly RNVR Y680
Service History - Arthur joined HMS PEMBROKE I for training on 23rd May 1916, serving with the Navy for the duration of the hostilities. He was 5’11” tall with brown hair and brown eyes and was rated as an Ordinary Seaman. He left PEMBROKE I on 4th July 1916 and was posted to HMAV OTWAY the following day where he remained in service until he was killed along with his ship mates on 22nd July 1917.
He was awarded the Victory and British medals upon his death, aged 26
Sources:
General Register Office
1891, 1901 & 1911 England Census
Royal Navy Registers of Seamen's Services, 1848-1939 National Archives Royal Navy Registers of Seamen's Services; Class: ADM 188; Piece: 753
CWGC Register
England & Wales, National Probate Calendar (Index of Wills and Administrations), 1858-1995
UK and Ireland, Find A Grave Index, 1300s-Current
Royal Navy and Royal Marine War Graves Roll, 1914-1919 TNA Series: ADM 242/10; Scan Number: 0199
Researched by Wendy Sadler
Name - MACKAY Murdo
DOB - 26th February 1875
Place of Birth - Shawbost, Stornoway, Ross
Parents - Donald and Ann
Early History -
1881 census - Murdo was the second eldest of 4 children, aged 6 and at school. The family lived at Garabine Road, Lochs
1891 census - Murdo was 16 and worked as an agricultural labourer, supporting the household which consisted of 2 more children and his elderly grandfather Niel, aged 84.
1901 census - Aged 26, Murdo and his younger sister Mary were the only members of the family remaining, living with their mother. Murdo worked as a general labourer.
Rank - Leading Seaman B2767 RNR
Service History - 5’9” tall with pale blue eyes, he had a small cross in the web of his right thumb. He enrolled on 1st January 1905 after initial training aboard HMS DIDO from 1st Oct 1904 to 29th Dec 1904. Prior to the war commencing, Murdo spent much of his time working in Canadian waters, either working ashore or on fishing vessels. He embarked to SS Montezuma on 31st October 1914 and after a brief spell attached to HMS PEMBROKE, he joined OTWAY on 23rd November 1914. He was also Mentioned in Dispatches. He left a widow Catherine and four children.
Highland News - Saturday 04 August 1917
SHAWBOST—KILLED IN ACTION —Murdo Mackay, D.S.M., leading seaman, of 55 North Shawbost, killed on board H.M.S. Otway, was one of several Lewismen who were picked to serve on the Otway. Only & few weeks ago an account of his having won the D.S.M. appeared in this paper. He was a man of more than ordinary intelligence, active, keen, and willing. A finer picture of young manhood could rarely be met with, He leaves a widow and four | young children. His shipmate, Donald Macphail, leading seaman, North Bragar, shared the same fate with him.
DOB - 26th February 1875
Place of Birth - Shawbost, Stornoway, Ross
Parents - Donald and Ann
Early History -
1881 census - Murdo was the second eldest of 4 children, aged 6 and at school. The family lived at Garabine Road, Lochs
1891 census - Murdo was 16 and worked as an agricultural labourer, supporting the household which consisted of 2 more children and his elderly grandfather Niel, aged 84.
1901 census - Aged 26, Murdo and his younger sister Mary were the only members of the family remaining, living with their mother. Murdo worked as a general labourer.
Rank - Leading Seaman B2767 RNR
Service History - 5’9” tall with pale blue eyes, he had a small cross in the web of his right thumb. He enrolled on 1st January 1905 after initial training aboard HMS DIDO from 1st Oct 1904 to 29th Dec 1904. Prior to the war commencing, Murdo spent much of his time working in Canadian waters, either working ashore or on fishing vessels. He embarked to SS Montezuma on 31st October 1914 and after a brief spell attached to HMS PEMBROKE, he joined OTWAY on 23rd November 1914. He was also Mentioned in Dispatches. He left a widow Catherine and four children.
Highland News - Saturday 04 August 1917
SHAWBOST—KILLED IN ACTION —Murdo Mackay, D.S.M., leading seaman, of 55 North Shawbost, killed on board H.M.S. Otway, was one of several Lewismen who were picked to serve on the Otway. Only & few weeks ago an account of his having won the D.S.M. appeared in this paper. He was a man of more than ordinary intelligence, active, keen, and willing. A finer picture of young manhood could rarely be met with, He leaves a widow and four | young children. His shipmate, Donald Macphail, leading seaman, North Bragar, shared the same fate with him.
Distinguished Service Medal (DSM)
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Mentioned in Dispatches
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Sources:
1881 Scotland Census Lochs; ED: 5; Page: 10; Line: 10; Roll: cssct1881_22
1891 Scotland Census Barvas; ED: 5; Page: 26; Line: 5; Roll: CSSCT1891_23
1901 Scotland Census Urray; ED: 1; Page: 7; Line: 2; Roll: CSSCT1901_16
WWI Pension Ledgers and Index Cards, 1914-1923 Western Front Association; London, England; Pension Record Cards; Reference: 127/0602/MCK-MCK
Royal Navy and Royal Marine War Graves Roll, 1914-1919 ADM 242/9; Scan Number: 0329
British Army and Navy Birth, Marriage and Death Records, 1730-1960 National Archives Admiralty: Naval Casualties, Indexes, War Grave Rolls and Statistics Book, First World War.; Class: ADM 242; Piece 009 (1914 - 1919)
CWGC Register
Photo - http://lewis-lost-ww1.blogspot.com/2013/02/murdo-mackay-55-north-shawbost.html
Researched by Wendy Sadler
1881 Scotland Census Lochs; ED: 5; Page: 10; Line: 10; Roll: cssct1881_22
1891 Scotland Census Barvas; ED: 5; Page: 26; Line: 5; Roll: CSSCT1891_23
1901 Scotland Census Urray; ED: 1; Page: 7; Line: 2; Roll: CSSCT1901_16
WWI Pension Ledgers and Index Cards, 1914-1923 Western Front Association; London, England; Pension Record Cards; Reference: 127/0602/MCK-MCK
Royal Navy and Royal Marine War Graves Roll, 1914-1919 ADM 242/9; Scan Number: 0329
British Army and Navy Birth, Marriage and Death Records, 1730-1960 National Archives Admiralty: Naval Casualties, Indexes, War Grave Rolls and Statistics Book, First World War.; Class: ADM 242; Piece 009 (1914 - 1919)
CWGC Register
Photo - http://lewis-lost-ww1.blogspot.com/2013/02/murdo-mackay-55-north-shawbost.html
Researched by Wendy Sadler
Name - VASS John
DOB - 27th September 1894
Place of Birth - Shandwick, Ross
Parents - Alexander and Helen
Early History -
1901 census - Aged 7, the eldest of 4 children on the census. The family lived at 8 New Street, Shandwick and John attended school
Rank - Seaman A4874 RNR
Service History - Recorded as 5’3” tall, John had brown eyes and a dark complexion, along with several tattoos - on his left arm was a ship “homeward bound” and a thistle “Scotland Forever” and a Union Jack with an image of a sailor on his right arm. He still lived at 8 New Street, Shandwick and enrolled with the RNR on 13th January 1913, his rating confirmed after training on HMS PRINCE OF WALES, based at Portsmouth, but already being completely familiar to sea life having worked in the fishing trade prior to joining.
He served aboard the “Faithful”, June 1913, “Princess Alexandra” October 1913, “Saxon Britain” January 1914 and the “Alicia” July 1914. Upon the outbreak of war John was attached to HMS PEMBROKE mid September 1914 and posted to OTWAY on 23rd November 1914, where he served the whole of his war.
Following his death his pension was awarded to his mother, his Star, British Victory and Victory medals went to his father.
DOB - 27th September 1894
Place of Birth - Shandwick, Ross
Parents - Alexander and Helen
Early History -
1901 census - Aged 7, the eldest of 4 children on the census. The family lived at 8 New Street, Shandwick and John attended school
Rank - Seaman A4874 RNR
Service History - Recorded as 5’3” tall, John had brown eyes and a dark complexion, along with several tattoos - on his left arm was a ship “homeward bound” and a thistle “Scotland Forever” and a Union Jack with an image of a sailor on his right arm. He still lived at 8 New Street, Shandwick and enrolled with the RNR on 13th January 1913, his rating confirmed after training on HMS PRINCE OF WALES, based at Portsmouth, but already being completely familiar to sea life having worked in the fishing trade prior to joining.
He served aboard the “Faithful”, June 1913, “Princess Alexandra” October 1913, “Saxon Britain” January 1914 and the “Alicia” July 1914. Upon the outbreak of war John was attached to HMS PEMBROKE mid September 1914 and posted to OTWAY on 23rd November 1914, where he served the whole of his war.
Following his death his pension was awarded to his mother, his Star, British Victory and Victory medals went to his father.
8 New Street, Shandwick
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|
Sources:
1901 Scotland Census Parish: Nigg; ED: 5; Page: 2; Line: 4; Roll: CSSCT1901_20
UK, Royal Naval Reserve Service Records Index, 1860-1955 - National Archives
CWGC Register
British Army and Navy Birth, Marriage and Death Records, 1730-1960 National Archives Admiralty: Naval Casualties, Indexes, War Grave Rolls and Statistics Book, First World War.; Class: ADM 242; Piece: 014 (1914 Jan 01 - 1919 Dec 31)
British Army and Navy Birth, Marriage and Death Records, 1730-1960 National Archives Admiralty: Naval Casualties, Indexes, War Grave Rolls and Statistics Book, First World War.; Class: ADM 242; Piece: 010 (1914 - 1919)
Royal Navy and Royal Marine War Graves Roll, 1914-1919 TNA Series: ADM 242/10; Scan Number: 0828
Google Maps
WWI Pension Ledgers and Index Cards, 1914-1923 Western Front Association; London, England; Pension Record Cards; Reference: 182/0952/VAN-VAU
Researched by Wendy Sadler
1901 Scotland Census Parish: Nigg; ED: 5; Page: 2; Line: 4; Roll: CSSCT1901_20
UK, Royal Naval Reserve Service Records Index, 1860-1955 - National Archives
CWGC Register
British Army and Navy Birth, Marriage and Death Records, 1730-1960 National Archives Admiralty: Naval Casualties, Indexes, War Grave Rolls and Statistics Book, First World War.; Class: ADM 242; Piece: 014 (1914 Jan 01 - 1919 Dec 31)
British Army and Navy Birth, Marriage and Death Records, 1730-1960 National Archives Admiralty: Naval Casualties, Indexes, War Grave Rolls and Statistics Book, First World War.; Class: ADM 242; Piece: 010 (1914 - 1919)
Royal Navy and Royal Marine War Graves Roll, 1914-1919 TNA Series: ADM 242/10; Scan Number: 0828
Google Maps
WWI Pension Ledgers and Index Cards, 1914-1923 Western Front Association; London, England; Pension Record Cards; Reference: 182/0952/VAN-VAU
Researched by Wendy Sadler
Name - MACPHAIL Donald
DOB -20th April 1876
Place of Birth - North Brager, Ross
Parents - John and Isabella
Early History -
1881 census - Aged 6, living in Barvas with his parents, two older siblings and Grandmother
1891 census - Aged 16 and recorded at school, the family still lived together except for his Grandmother Catherine.
1901 census - Aged 26 and working as a fisherman. Donald still lived with his parents and older siblings.
Husband of Effie MacPhail (nee Campbell) - the couple married in 1904
Rank - Leading Seaman C 1623
Service History - Enrolled with RNR on 20th February 1900 - Had previous naval training aboard HMS RODNEY (23/08/1899 - 20/02/1900) and HMS RAMILLIES ( 30/01/1906 - 31/03/1906)
Served aboard:
HMS AGAMEMNON - 02/12/1908 - 28/12/1908
AFRICA - 01/02/1912 - 28/02/1912
QUEEN - 28/01/1914 - 23/02/1914
Joined OTWAY on 23/11/1914
His Star, Victory and British medals were awarded to his widow following his death
Sources:
1881, 1891 & 1901 Scotland Census - Ancestry.com
British Army and Navy Birth, Marriage and Death Records, 1730-1960 National Archives Admiralty: Naval Casualties, Indexes, War Grave Rolls and Statistics Book, First World War.; Class: ADM 242; Piece 009 (1914 - 1919)
Royal Navy and Royal Marine War Graves Roll, 1914-1919 TNA Series: ADM 242/9; Scan Number: 0303
WWI Pension Ledgers and Index Cards, 1914-1923 Western Front Association; London, England; Pension Record Cards; Reference: 130/0613/MCP-MCQ
Royal Naval Reserve Service Records Index, 1860-1955 - National Archives
Scotlands People
Photo courtesy of http://facesmemorial.blogspot.com/2007/07/north-bragar.html
Naval Medal and Award Rolls, 1793-1972 ADM 171; Piece: 122
Researched by Wendy Sadler
DOB -20th April 1876
Place of Birth - North Brager, Ross
Parents - John and Isabella
Early History -
1881 census - Aged 6, living in Barvas with his parents, two older siblings and Grandmother
1891 census - Aged 16 and recorded at school, the family still lived together except for his Grandmother Catherine.
1901 census - Aged 26 and working as a fisherman. Donald still lived with his parents and older siblings.
Husband of Effie MacPhail (nee Campbell) - the couple married in 1904
Rank - Leading Seaman C 1623
Service History - Enrolled with RNR on 20th February 1900 - Had previous naval training aboard HMS RODNEY (23/08/1899 - 20/02/1900) and HMS RAMILLIES ( 30/01/1906 - 31/03/1906)
Served aboard:
HMS AGAMEMNON - 02/12/1908 - 28/12/1908
AFRICA - 01/02/1912 - 28/02/1912
QUEEN - 28/01/1914 - 23/02/1914
Joined OTWAY on 23/11/1914
His Star, Victory and British medals were awarded to his widow following his death
Sources:
1881, 1891 & 1901 Scotland Census - Ancestry.com
British Army and Navy Birth, Marriage and Death Records, 1730-1960 National Archives Admiralty: Naval Casualties, Indexes, War Grave Rolls and Statistics Book, First World War.; Class: ADM 242; Piece 009 (1914 - 1919)
Royal Navy and Royal Marine War Graves Roll, 1914-1919 TNA Series: ADM 242/9; Scan Number: 0303
WWI Pension Ledgers and Index Cards, 1914-1923 Western Front Association; London, England; Pension Record Cards; Reference: 130/0613/MCP-MCQ
Royal Naval Reserve Service Records Index, 1860-1955 - National Archives
Scotlands People
Photo courtesy of http://facesmemorial.blogspot.com/2007/07/north-bragar.html
Naval Medal and Award Rolls, 1793-1972 ADM 171; Piece: 122
Researched by Wendy Sadler
Name - CAMPBELL Donald
DOB - 10th June 1884
Place of Birth - Tolsta, Stornoway
Parents - John and Isabella
Early History - Donald was aged 6 on the 1891 Scotland census, living with his parents and six siblings in Stornoway and again ten years later on the 1901 Scotland census.
Rank - Seaman, RNR B 2905
Service History - Donald enrolled with the Royal Naval Reserve on 1st January 1905, recorded as being 5’9” tall with hazel eyes and ink marks on the back of his left hand. Prior to the Great War commencing he was held on retention, continuing his fishing with occasions of training attached to HMS Empress of India, JUNO and IMPLACABLE. On the outbreak of war Donald was dispatched from Kirkwall, Orkney to SS Montezuma on 14/08/1914 where he briefly stayed before being attached to Chatham on 23/08/1914. He joined OTWAY on 23/11/1914 until its sinking.
His pension was claimed by his widow Catherine for their children along with his Star, Victory and British war medals. He is remembered locally on a memorial in Lewis.
DOB - 10th June 1884
Place of Birth - Tolsta, Stornoway
Parents - John and Isabella
Early History - Donald was aged 6 on the 1891 Scotland census, living with his parents and six siblings in Stornoway and again ten years later on the 1901 Scotland census.
Rank - Seaman, RNR B 2905
Service History - Donald enrolled with the Royal Naval Reserve on 1st January 1905, recorded as being 5’9” tall with hazel eyes and ink marks on the back of his left hand. Prior to the Great War commencing he was held on retention, continuing his fishing with occasions of training attached to HMS Empress of India, JUNO and IMPLACABLE. On the outbreak of war Donald was dispatched from Kirkwall, Orkney to SS Montezuma on 14/08/1914 where he briefly stayed before being attached to Chatham on 23/08/1914. He joined OTWAY on 23/11/1914 until its sinking.
His pension was claimed by his widow Catherine for their children along with his Star, Victory and British war medals. He is remembered locally on a memorial in Lewis.
Campbell listed on Back district section - image courtesy of Guido Blokland
Sources:
1891 & 1901 Scotland Census
UK, Royal Naval Reserve Service Records Index, 1860-1955 BT 377/7/25229
British Army and Navy Birth, Marriage and Death Records, 1730-1960 National Archives of the UK; Kew, Surrey, England; Admiralty and predecessors: Office of the Director General of the Medical Department of the Navy and predecessors: Service Registers and Registers of Deaths and Injuries. Registers of Reports of Deaths
British Army and Navy Birth, Marriage and Death Records, 1730-1960 National Archives of the UK; Kew, Surrey, England; Admiralty: Naval Casualties, Indexes, War Grave Rolls and Statistics Book, First World War.; Class: ADM 242; Piece: 007 (1914 - 1919)
British Army and Navy Birth, Marriage and Death Records, 1730-1960 National Archives of the UK; Kew, Surrey, England; Admiralty: Naval Casualties, Indexes, War Grave Rolls and Statistics Book, First World War.; Class: ADM 242; Piece: 014 (1914 Jan 01 - 1919 Dec 31)
CWGC Register
Naval Medal and Award Rolls, 1793-1972 Class: ADM 171; Piece: 120
Royal Navy and Royal Marine War Graves Roll, 1914-1919 TNA Series: ADM 242/7; Scan Number: 0642
WWI Pension Ledgers and Index Cards, 1914-1923 Western Front Association; London, England; Pension Record Cards; Reference: 037/0151/CAM-CAM
Researched by Wendy Sadler
1891 & 1901 Scotland Census
UK, Royal Naval Reserve Service Records Index, 1860-1955 BT 377/7/25229
British Army and Navy Birth, Marriage and Death Records, 1730-1960 National Archives of the UK; Kew, Surrey, England; Admiralty and predecessors: Office of the Director General of the Medical Department of the Navy and predecessors: Service Registers and Registers of Deaths and Injuries. Registers of Reports of Deaths
British Army and Navy Birth, Marriage and Death Records, 1730-1960 National Archives of the UK; Kew, Surrey, England; Admiralty: Naval Casualties, Indexes, War Grave Rolls and Statistics Book, First World War.; Class: ADM 242; Piece: 007 (1914 - 1919)
British Army and Navy Birth, Marriage and Death Records, 1730-1960 National Archives of the UK; Kew, Surrey, England; Admiralty: Naval Casualties, Indexes, War Grave Rolls and Statistics Book, First World War.; Class: ADM 242; Piece: 014 (1914 Jan 01 - 1919 Dec 31)
CWGC Register
Naval Medal and Award Rolls, 1793-1972 Class: ADM 171; Piece: 120
Royal Navy and Royal Marine War Graves Roll, 1914-1919 TNA Series: ADM 242/7; Scan Number: 0642
WWI Pension Ledgers and Index Cards, 1914-1923 Western Front Association; London, England; Pension Record Cards; Reference: 037/0151/CAM-CAM
Researched by Wendy Sadler
Name - MACDONALD Murdo
DOB - April 1872
Place of Birth - Eorodale, Ross
Parents - Norman and Isabella
Rank - Seaman RNR B 2790
Service History - Murdo enrolled with the RNR on 1st January 1905, attached to HMS BENBOW, JUNO and EMPRESS OF INDIA for naval training from 11/10/1900 until the turn of the new year in 1905. He was also attached to HMS vessels CAESAR and LION for training in between continuing fishing for a living while on retention. On the outbreak of war he left the port of Fraserburgh heading for the Royal Naval Division in Chatham, Kent on 04/08/1914. He was posted to OTWAY on 23/11/1914.
His Star, British war, and Victory medals were issued to his brother following his death.
DOB - April 1872
Place of Birth - Eorodale, Ross
Parents - Norman and Isabella
Rank - Seaman RNR B 2790
Service History - Murdo enrolled with the RNR on 1st January 1905, attached to HMS BENBOW, JUNO and EMPRESS OF INDIA for naval training from 11/10/1900 until the turn of the new year in 1905. He was also attached to HMS vessels CAESAR and LION for training in between continuing fishing for a living while on retention. On the outbreak of war he left the port of Fraserburgh heading for the Royal Naval Division in Chatham, Kent on 04/08/1914. He was posted to OTWAY on 23/11/1914.
His Star, British war, and Victory medals were issued to his brother following his death.
Sources:
UK, Royal Naval Reserve Service Records Index, 1860-1955 BT 377/7/25114
British Army and Navy Birth, Marriage and Death Records, 1730-1960 National Archives of the UK; Kew, Surrey, England; Admiralty: Naval Casualties, Indexes, War Grave Rolls and Statistics Book, First World War.; Class: ADM 242; Piece: 009 (1914 - 1919)
British Army and Navy Birth, Marriage and Death Records, 1730-1960 National Archives of the UK; Kew, Surrey, England; Admiralty: Naval Casualties, Indexes, War Grave Rolls and Statistics Book, First World War.; Class: ADM 242; Piece: 014 (1914 Jan 01 - 1919 Dec 31)
British Army and Navy Birth, Marriage and Death Records, 1730-1960 National Archives of the UK; Kew, Surrey, England; Admiralty and predecessors: Office of the Director General of the Medical Department of the Navy and predecessors: Service Registers and Registers of Deaths and Injuries. Registers of Reports of Deaths
CWGC Register
Royal Navy and Royal Marine War Graves Roll, 1914-1919
Researched by Wendy Sadler
UK, Royal Naval Reserve Service Records Index, 1860-1955 BT 377/7/25114
British Army and Navy Birth, Marriage and Death Records, 1730-1960 National Archives of the UK; Kew, Surrey, England; Admiralty: Naval Casualties, Indexes, War Grave Rolls and Statistics Book, First World War.; Class: ADM 242; Piece: 009 (1914 - 1919)
British Army and Navy Birth, Marriage and Death Records, 1730-1960 National Archives of the UK; Kew, Surrey, England; Admiralty: Naval Casualties, Indexes, War Grave Rolls and Statistics Book, First World War.; Class: ADM 242; Piece: 014 (1914 Jan 01 - 1919 Dec 31)
British Army and Navy Birth, Marriage and Death Records, 1730-1960 National Archives of the UK; Kew, Surrey, England; Admiralty and predecessors: Office of the Director General of the Medical Department of the Navy and predecessors: Service Registers and Registers of Deaths and Injuries. Registers of Reports of Deaths
CWGC Register
Royal Navy and Royal Marine War Graves Roll, 1914-1919
Researched by Wendy Sadler
Name - MACLEOD Evander
DOB - 11th March 1884
Place of Birth - Bayble, Stornoway
Parents - Angus and Henrietta
Early History -
1891 Scotland census - Aged 7, living at Lower Bayble with his parents and 3 older siblings.
1901 Scotland census - Recorded aged 21 on the census, Evander was actually seventeen, worked as a fisherman and lived at 34 Lower Bayble with his parents and two siblings.
Rank - Seaman, RNR B 4028 (Ch)
Service History - Evander joined the RNR enrolling on 1st January 1906 undergoing training attached to HMS ANTRIM for 28 days but previously present on HMS RESOLUTION from 04/10/1905 to 31/12/1905 under service number 11895 X. He was recorded as being 5’5” tall with hazel eyes, with a tattoo of EML on the back of his left hand and had a ring on the middle finger of his right hand.
Re- enrolling on 08/03/1911 he remained working by fishing up until war was declared when he departed the port in Stornoway and joined the MONTEZUMA on 05/08/1914. He was transferred to Chatham on the 18/08/1914, HMS PEMBROKE I on 22/10/1914 and joined OTWAY on 23/11/1914
His pension was awarded to his widow Maggie, following his death, as were his Star, Victory and British war medals.
Sources:
1891 & 1901 Scotland census
UK, Royal Naval Reserve Service Records Index, 1860-1955 BT 377/7/26349
British Army and Navy Birth, Marriage and Death Records, 1730-1960 National Archives of the UK; Kew, Surrey, England; Admiralty: Naval Casualties, Indexes, War Grave Rolls and Statistics Book, First World War.; Class: ADM 242; Piece: 014 (1914 Jan 01 - 1919 Dec 31)
British Army and Navy Birth, Marriage and Death Records, 1730-1960 ational Archives of the UK; Kew, Surrey, England; Admiralty: Naval Casualties, Indexes, War Grave Rolls and Statistics Book, First World War.; Class: ADM 242; Piece: 009 (1914 - 1919)
British Army and Navy Birth, Marriage and Death Records, 1730-1960 National Archives of the UK; Kew, Surrey, England; Admiralty and predecessors: Office of the Director General of the Medical Department of the Navy and predecessors: Service Registers and Registers of Deaths and Injuries. Registers of Reports of Deaths
CWGC Register
Royal Navy and Royal Marine War Graves Roll, 1914-1919 TNA Series: ADM 242/9; Scan Number: 0342
WWI Pension Ledgers and Index Cards, 1914-1923 Western Front Association; London, England; WWI Pension Record Cards and Ledgers; Reference: 131/0609/MCL-MCL
Researched by Wendy Sadler
DOB - 11th March 1884
Place of Birth - Bayble, Stornoway
Parents - Angus and Henrietta
Early History -
1891 Scotland census - Aged 7, living at Lower Bayble with his parents and 3 older siblings.
1901 Scotland census - Recorded aged 21 on the census, Evander was actually seventeen, worked as a fisherman and lived at 34 Lower Bayble with his parents and two siblings.
Rank - Seaman, RNR B 4028 (Ch)
Service History - Evander joined the RNR enrolling on 1st January 1906 undergoing training attached to HMS ANTRIM for 28 days but previously present on HMS RESOLUTION from 04/10/1905 to 31/12/1905 under service number 11895 X. He was recorded as being 5’5” tall with hazel eyes, with a tattoo of EML on the back of his left hand and had a ring on the middle finger of his right hand.
Re- enrolling on 08/03/1911 he remained working by fishing up until war was declared when he departed the port in Stornoway and joined the MONTEZUMA on 05/08/1914. He was transferred to Chatham on the 18/08/1914, HMS PEMBROKE I on 22/10/1914 and joined OTWAY on 23/11/1914
His pension was awarded to his widow Maggie, following his death, as were his Star, Victory and British war medals.
Sources:
1891 & 1901 Scotland census
UK, Royal Naval Reserve Service Records Index, 1860-1955 BT 377/7/26349
British Army and Navy Birth, Marriage and Death Records, 1730-1960 National Archives of the UK; Kew, Surrey, England; Admiralty: Naval Casualties, Indexes, War Grave Rolls and Statistics Book, First World War.; Class: ADM 242; Piece: 014 (1914 Jan 01 - 1919 Dec 31)
British Army and Navy Birth, Marriage and Death Records, 1730-1960 ational Archives of the UK; Kew, Surrey, England; Admiralty: Naval Casualties, Indexes, War Grave Rolls and Statistics Book, First World War.; Class: ADM 242; Piece: 009 (1914 - 1919)
British Army and Navy Birth, Marriage and Death Records, 1730-1960 National Archives of the UK; Kew, Surrey, England; Admiralty and predecessors: Office of the Director General of the Medical Department of the Navy and predecessors: Service Registers and Registers of Deaths and Injuries. Registers of Reports of Deaths
CWGC Register
Royal Navy and Royal Marine War Graves Roll, 1914-1919 TNA Series: ADM 242/9; Scan Number: 0342
WWI Pension Ledgers and Index Cards, 1914-1923 Western Front Association; London, England; WWI Pension Record Cards and Ledgers; Reference: 131/0609/MCL-MCL
Researched by Wendy Sadler
Name - STEWART Peter
DOB - 1st February 1886
Place of Birth - Bayble, Stornoway
Parents - Peter and Annie
Rank - Seaman RNR B 2275
Service History - Peter joined the RNR on 25th November 1909, training at the Chatham Depot and attached to HMS CAESAR, being discharged on 7th April 1910. He continued fishing prior to the outbreak of war, dispatching from Stornoway on 12th August 1914 to HMS ARROGANT until 27th August and attached to Chatham two weeks later. He joined OTWAY on 1st September 1916.
His Star, Victory and British war medals were awarded to his father at their home address of 3 Lower Bayble following his death. He is remembered on the district memorial for Point, Isle of Lewis.
DOB - 1st February 1886
Place of Birth - Bayble, Stornoway
Parents - Peter and Annie
Rank - Seaman RNR B 2275
Service History - Peter joined the RNR on 25th November 1909, training at the Chatham Depot and attached to HMS CAESAR, being discharged on 7th April 1910. He continued fishing prior to the outbreak of war, dispatching from Stornoway on 12th August 1914 to HMS ARROGANT until 27th August and attached to Chatham two weeks later. He joined OTWAY on 1st September 1916.
His Star, Victory and British war medals were awarded to his father at their home address of 3 Lower Bayble following his death. He is remembered on the district memorial for Point, Isle of Lewis.
Image courtesy of Guido Blokland
Sources:
UK, Royal Naval Reserve Service Records Index, 1860-1955 BT377/7/2050
British Army and Navy Birth, Marriage and Death Records, 1730-1960 ational Archives of the UK; Kew, Surrey, England; Admiralty: Naval Casualties, Indexes, War Grave Rolls and Statistics Book, First World War.; Class: ADM 242; Piece: 010 (1914 - 1919)
British Army and Navy Birth, Marriage and Death Records, 1730-1960 National Archives of the UK; Kew, Surrey, England; Admiralty: Naval Casualties, Indexes, War Grave Rolls and Statistics Book, First World War.; Class: ADM 242; Piece: 014 (1914 Jan 01 - 1919 Dec 31)
CWGC Register
Naval Medal and Award Rolls, 1793-1972 Class: ADM 171; Piece: 124
Royal Navy and Royal Marine War Graves Roll, 1914-1919 TNA Series: ADM 242/10; Scan Number: 0553
Researched by Wendy Sadler
UK, Royal Naval Reserve Service Records Index, 1860-1955 BT377/7/2050
British Army and Navy Birth, Marriage and Death Records, 1730-1960 ational Archives of the UK; Kew, Surrey, England; Admiralty: Naval Casualties, Indexes, War Grave Rolls and Statistics Book, First World War.; Class: ADM 242; Piece: 010 (1914 - 1919)
British Army and Navy Birth, Marriage and Death Records, 1730-1960 National Archives of the UK; Kew, Surrey, England; Admiralty: Naval Casualties, Indexes, War Grave Rolls and Statistics Book, First World War.; Class: ADM 242; Piece: 014 (1914 Jan 01 - 1919 Dec 31)
CWGC Register
Naval Medal and Award Rolls, 1793-1972 Class: ADM 171; Piece: 124
Royal Navy and Royal Marine War Graves Roll, 1914-1919 TNA Series: ADM 242/10; Scan Number: 0553
Researched by Wendy Sadler
Name -WOOD Peter
DOB - 18th July 1893, at 6:30pm
Place of Birth - 109 Barloch Street, Glasgow, Scotland
Parents - Joseph and Rachel
Early History - Peter was aged seven when recorded on the 1901 census, the eldest of three children; the family resided at Fisherbrae in Coldingham, Berwickshire.
Rank - Seaman, RNR A 8790
Service History -
Peter enrolled with the RNR on 7th December 1915, recorded as 5’5” tall with blue eyes and a fair complexion. He served on just one vessel, joining HMS OTWAY on 07/01/1916, leaving Berwick on 20/12/1915
His Victory and British war medals were claimed by his father following his death.
DOB - 18th July 1893, at 6:30pm
Place of Birth - 109 Barloch Street, Glasgow, Scotland
Parents - Joseph and Rachel
Early History - Peter was aged seven when recorded on the 1901 census, the eldest of three children; the family resided at Fisherbrae in Coldingham, Berwickshire.
Rank - Seaman, RNR A 8790
Service History -
Peter enrolled with the RNR on 7th December 1915, recorded as 5’5” tall with blue eyes and a fair complexion. He served on just one vessel, joining HMS OTWAY on 07/01/1916, leaving Berwick on 20/12/1915
His Victory and British war medals were claimed by his father following his death.
Berwick Advertiser - Friday 17 August 1917
COLDINGHAM CASUALTIES. Official intimation has been received that seaman Peter Wood was killed on 22nd July through the sinking by the enemy of H.M.S. Auxiliary Cruiser “Otway.” Deceased joined in December 1915, and was a son of Mr and Mrs Wood, Townfoot, Coldingham. He was 24 years of age, a quiet, active and most respectable lad. Before enlisting was a baker, and his late employer, (Mr Moffatt, Coldingham) speaks very highly of him. Much sympathy is felt for the sorrowing parents.(photo)
Berwick Advertiser - Friday 17 August 1917
KILLED IN ACTION
WOOD.—Killed on 22nd July, on H.M.S. “Otway,” seaman Peter Wood, eldest son of Mr and Mrs Joseph Wood, Townfoot, Coldingham, aged 24.
Berwickshire News and General Advertiser - Tuesday 20 July 1920
In loving- memory of Peter, eldest son Joseph and Rachel Wood, killed by torpedoing of H.M.S “Otway” in Northern Waters, July -22nd, 1917, Townfoot, Coldingham.
Sources:
1901 Scotland Census
UK, Royal Naval Reserve Service Records Index, 1860-1955 BT377/7/8798
British Army and Navy Birth, Marriage and Death Records, 1730-1960 National Archives of the UK; Kew, Surrey, England; Admiralty: Naval Casualties, Indexes, War Grave Rolls and Statistics Book, First World War.; Class: ADM 242; Piece: 010 (1914 - 1919)
British Army and Navy Birth, Marriage and Death Records, 1730-1960 National Archives of the UK; Kew, Surrey, England; Admiralty: Naval Casualties, Indexes, War Grave Rolls and Statistics Book, First World War.; Class: ADM 242; Piece: 014 (1914 Jan 01 - 1919 Dec 31)
British Army and Navy Birth, Marriage and Death Records, 1730-1960 National Archives of the UK; Kew, Surrey, England; Admiralty and predecessors: Office of the Director General of the Medical Department of the Navy and predecessors: Service Registers and Registers of Deaths and Injuries. Registers of Reports of Deaths
CWGC Register
Naval Medal and Award Rolls, 1793-1972 Class: ADM 171; Piece: 124
Royal Navy and Royal Marine War Graves Roll, 1914-1919 TNA Series: ADM 242/10; Scan Number: 1138
Researched by Wendy Sadler
COLDINGHAM CASUALTIES. Official intimation has been received that seaman Peter Wood was killed on 22nd July through the sinking by the enemy of H.M.S. Auxiliary Cruiser “Otway.” Deceased joined in December 1915, and was a son of Mr and Mrs Wood, Townfoot, Coldingham. He was 24 years of age, a quiet, active and most respectable lad. Before enlisting was a baker, and his late employer, (Mr Moffatt, Coldingham) speaks very highly of him. Much sympathy is felt for the sorrowing parents.(photo)
Berwick Advertiser - Friday 17 August 1917
KILLED IN ACTION
WOOD.—Killed on 22nd July, on H.M.S. “Otway,” seaman Peter Wood, eldest son of Mr and Mrs Joseph Wood, Townfoot, Coldingham, aged 24.
Berwickshire News and General Advertiser - Tuesday 20 July 1920
In loving- memory of Peter, eldest son Joseph and Rachel Wood, killed by torpedoing of H.M.S “Otway” in Northern Waters, July -22nd, 1917, Townfoot, Coldingham.
Sources:
1901 Scotland Census
UK, Royal Naval Reserve Service Records Index, 1860-1955 BT377/7/8798
British Army and Navy Birth, Marriage and Death Records, 1730-1960 National Archives of the UK; Kew, Surrey, England; Admiralty: Naval Casualties, Indexes, War Grave Rolls and Statistics Book, First World War.; Class: ADM 242; Piece: 010 (1914 - 1919)
British Army and Navy Birth, Marriage and Death Records, 1730-1960 National Archives of the UK; Kew, Surrey, England; Admiralty: Naval Casualties, Indexes, War Grave Rolls and Statistics Book, First World War.; Class: ADM 242; Piece: 014 (1914 Jan 01 - 1919 Dec 31)
British Army and Navy Birth, Marriage and Death Records, 1730-1960 National Archives of the UK; Kew, Surrey, England; Admiralty and predecessors: Office of the Director General of the Medical Department of the Navy and predecessors: Service Registers and Registers of Deaths and Injuries. Registers of Reports of Deaths
CWGC Register
Naval Medal and Award Rolls, 1793-1972 Class: ADM 171; Piece: 124
Royal Navy and Royal Marine War Graves Roll, 1914-1919 TNA Series: ADM 242/10; Scan Number: 1138
Researched by Wendy Sadler
WOUNDED ON HMS OTWAY 22/07/1917.
Name - Benjamin James Smith
DOB - 11th February 1890
Place of Birth - Lowestoft, Suffolk
Parents - William Henry and Rebecca Crawford
Early History - Benjamin and his siblings William, Charles and Ethel were all baptised on the same day in the church of St John’s Parish in Lowestoft, on the 8th July 1892. He did have a younger brother also, who was born in 1900
1891 census - although over a year old, Benjamin is not recorded on this census, not at least with his parents.
1901 census - Benjamin, aged 8 lived at Laundry Lane, Lowestoft, along with his parents, siblings and Grandfather Benjamin.
1911 census - unable to find - he was possibly aboard a boat, having grown up in a coastal town and following two older brothers into fishing.
Benjamin married Elizabeth Blake in the Oct-Dec quarter of 1911 and lived with his wife at Parkhill Cottages, Corton, a small village north of Lowestoft.
Rank - Able Seaman, 6437 A RNR
Service History - Benjamin joined the RNR on 14th October 1914, recorded as 5’7” tall, blue eyes and a small mole on the right side of his nose. Dispatched from the port of Lowestoft on 16th October 1914, he arrived aboard OTWAY on 23rd November 1914 and remained with the boat for the majority of the war, although he was absent from sailing on 26/04/1917. Because of literally missing the boat he was ordered to spend 5 days in cells and posted to ** Eagle until 6th June 1917 where he was one of three ratings that joined HMS Alsatian, which was anchored in Liverpool for coaling. On the 8th June the ship cast off and on the 10th June met with HMS Otway where 3 ratings were discharged, Benjamin being one of them, along with dispatches. http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-33380/ADM53-33380-168_0.jpg
Benjamin was only slightly injured (mentioned in his service records) when the OTWAY was torpedoed on 22nd July 1917, although what injuries he did sustain is not known. While recuperating he was attached to HMS PEMBROKE and the accounting base HMS PRESIDENT III until he was fit to continue service.
His next posting was to SS Tyrhaug, joining the merchant steamer on 1st October 1917. His luck following the tragedy on OTWAY was not to hold out and on 22nd March 1918 when UB103 launched a torpedo, both Benjamin and a fellow crewman were killed, 10 miles off Pendeen Head Light House, Cornwall. He left a widow and four children.
His Star, Victory and British medals were awarded to his wife following his death, aged just 28
DOB - 11th February 1890
Place of Birth - Lowestoft, Suffolk
Parents - William Henry and Rebecca Crawford
Early History - Benjamin and his siblings William, Charles and Ethel were all baptised on the same day in the church of St John’s Parish in Lowestoft, on the 8th July 1892. He did have a younger brother also, who was born in 1900
1891 census - although over a year old, Benjamin is not recorded on this census, not at least with his parents.
1901 census - Benjamin, aged 8 lived at Laundry Lane, Lowestoft, along with his parents, siblings and Grandfather Benjamin.
1911 census - unable to find - he was possibly aboard a boat, having grown up in a coastal town and following two older brothers into fishing.
Benjamin married Elizabeth Blake in the Oct-Dec quarter of 1911 and lived with his wife at Parkhill Cottages, Corton, a small village north of Lowestoft.
Rank - Able Seaman, 6437 A RNR
Service History - Benjamin joined the RNR on 14th October 1914, recorded as 5’7” tall, blue eyes and a small mole on the right side of his nose. Dispatched from the port of Lowestoft on 16th October 1914, he arrived aboard OTWAY on 23rd November 1914 and remained with the boat for the majority of the war, although he was absent from sailing on 26/04/1917. Because of literally missing the boat he was ordered to spend 5 days in cells and posted to ** Eagle until 6th June 1917 where he was one of three ratings that joined HMS Alsatian, which was anchored in Liverpool for coaling. On the 8th June the ship cast off and on the 10th June met with HMS Otway where 3 ratings were discharged, Benjamin being one of them, along with dispatches. http://oldweather.s3.amazonaws.com/ADM53-33380/ADM53-33380-168_0.jpg
Benjamin was only slightly injured (mentioned in his service records) when the OTWAY was torpedoed on 22nd July 1917, although what injuries he did sustain is not known. While recuperating he was attached to HMS PEMBROKE and the accounting base HMS PRESIDENT III until he was fit to continue service.
His next posting was to SS Tyrhaug, joining the merchant steamer on 1st October 1917. His luck following the tragedy on OTWAY was not to hold out and on 22nd March 1918 when UB103 launched a torpedo, both Benjamin and a fellow crewman were killed, 10 miles off Pendeen Head Light House, Cornwall. He left a widow and four children.
His Star, Victory and British medals were awarded to his wife following his death, aged just 28
Pendeen Lighthouse, Cornwall
Sources:
1890 & 1901 England Census
England & Wales, Civil Registration Marriage Index, 1837-1915 - FreeBMD
Norfolk, England, Church of England Births and Baptisms, 1813-1915 Norfolk Record Office; Norwich, Norfolk, England; Reference: PD 171/3
Royal Navy and Royal Marine War Graves Roll, 1914-1919 TNA Series: ADM 242/10; Scan Number: 0416
British Army and Navy Birth, Marriage and Death Records, 1730-1960 National Archives Admiralty: Naval Casualties, Indexes, War Grave Rolls and Statistics Book, First World War.; Class: ADM 242; Piece 010 (1914 - 1919)
CWGC Register
https://www.naval-history.net/OWShips-WW1-08-HMS_Alsatian.htm
https://www.wrecksite.eu/wreck.aspx?11390
WWI Pension Ledgers and Index Cards, 1914-1923 Western Front Association; London, England; Pension Record Cards; Reference: 168/0854/SMI-SMI
UK, Royal Naval Reserve Service Records Index, 1860-1955
Naval Medal and Award Rolls, 1793-1972 ADM 171; Piece: 124
Researched by Wendy Sadler.
1890 & 1901 England Census
England & Wales, Civil Registration Marriage Index, 1837-1915 - FreeBMD
Norfolk, England, Church of England Births and Baptisms, 1813-1915 Norfolk Record Office; Norwich, Norfolk, England; Reference: PD 171/3
Royal Navy and Royal Marine War Graves Roll, 1914-1919 TNA Series: ADM 242/10; Scan Number: 0416
British Army and Navy Birth, Marriage and Death Records, 1730-1960 National Archives Admiralty: Naval Casualties, Indexes, War Grave Rolls and Statistics Book, First World War.; Class: ADM 242; Piece 010 (1914 - 1919)
CWGC Register
https://www.naval-history.net/OWShips-WW1-08-HMS_Alsatian.htm
https://www.wrecksite.eu/wreck.aspx?11390
WWI Pension Ledgers and Index Cards, 1914-1923 Western Front Association; London, England; Pension Record Cards; Reference: 168/0854/SMI-SMI
UK, Royal Naval Reserve Service Records Index, 1860-1955
Naval Medal and Award Rolls, 1793-1972 ADM 171; Piece: 124
Researched by Wendy Sadler.
Two more survivors were recorded as wounded in the explosion on H.M.S. Otway -
George Varley - A 6282 was slightly wounded and James Ritchie - A 6527 severely wounded.
George, born in 1897 in Winterton, Norfolk, was demobilised from the Navy in 1919 following the end of the war. He married Kate Mayes in 1922, went on to be an engineer and died in 1981 aged 84.
James Ritchie was severely wounded in the blast and pensioned out of the Navy with disability on 5th December 1917 issued with Silver Wound Badge # 19667. Nothing is known about his life after his time in the Navy.
George Varley - A 6282 was slightly wounded and James Ritchie - A 6527 severely wounded.
George, born in 1897 in Winterton, Norfolk, was demobilised from the Navy in 1919 following the end of the war. He married Kate Mayes in 1922, went on to be an engineer and died in 1981 aged 84.
James Ritchie was severely wounded in the blast and pensioned out of the Navy with disability on 5th December 1917 issued with Silver Wound Badge # 19667. Nothing is known about his life after his time in the Navy.
Survivors
Greaser's Percy King & Ernest King
Grays & Tilbury Gazette - Saturday 28 July 1917
SURVIVOR'S STORY. Some of the local survivors reached home on Thursday; among them being Greaser Percy King, of William Street, and his brother, Greaser Ernest King, of New Road, Grays. The first-named, in the course of an interview, gave an interesting account of the episode, which happened about 10.30 p.m. on Sunday. “It was in a different part of the ship, but it woke me up. I was just as l am now - trousers and shirt - without even socks. We went to our stations, and all were got off in the boats and rafts, except, of course, those who were killed by the explosion. They were deck hands and marines.” She took two hours to sink, he went on, adding that he was in a boat & few hundred yards away. The last that was seen of her was when her stern rose in the air and she sank stern first. There was no hitch or difficulty. “Our commodore was splendid. But for the explosion everyone would have been saved.” They occupied some time in reaching land, but once ashore they had an excellent reception. “The ladies were very good to us and worked very hard. We had come off just as we stood at the moment, and had lost everything else. We were given clothes, and nothing was left undone to make us comfortable for the train journey to —, the port where we shipped. There we had new uniform and clothes given out, and were sent off home last night.” The speaker added that he had been seven or eight years in the “Otway,” having served in her from practically the time she was a new boat.
Grays & Tilbury Gazette - Saturday 28 July 1917
SURVIVOR'S STORY. Some of the local survivors reached home on Thursday; among them being Greaser Percy King, of William Street, and his brother, Greaser Ernest King, of New Road, Grays. The first-named, in the course of an interview, gave an interesting account of the episode, which happened about 10.30 p.m. on Sunday. “It was in a different part of the ship, but it woke me up. I was just as l am now - trousers and shirt - without even socks. We went to our stations, and all were got off in the boats and rafts, except, of course, those who were killed by the explosion. They were deck hands and marines.” She took two hours to sink, he went on, adding that he was in a boat & few hundred yards away. The last that was seen of her was when her stern rose in the air and she sank stern first. There was no hitch or difficulty. “Our commodore was splendid. But for the explosion everyone would have been saved.” They occupied some time in reaching land, but once ashore they had an excellent reception. “The ladies were very good to us and worked very hard. We had come off just as we stood at the moment, and had lost everything else. We were given clothes, and nothing was left undone to make us comfortable for the train journey to —, the port where we shipped. There we had new uniform and clothes given out, and were sent off home last night.” The speaker added that he had been seven or eight years in the “Otway,” having served in her from practically the time she was a new boat.
Telegraphist G.J.B. Blacker R.N.V.R
Bristol Times and Mirror - Saturday 28 July 1917
A survivor of HMS Otway Telegraphist G.J.B. Blacker R.N.V.R. Bath Post Office
Bristol Times and Mirror - Saturday 28 July 1917
A survivor of HMS Otway Telegraphist G.J.B. Blacker R.N.V.R. Bath Post Office
Assistant Paymaster Thomas S. Phelps. R.N.R
Sevenoaks Chronicle and Kentish Advertiser - Friday 29 March 1918
Considerable sympathy will be felt for Mr. and Mrs. Phelps, of Knowle View, Bayham-road, .Sevenoaks. whose second son. Assistant Paymaster Thomas S. Phelps. R.N.R., was killed an explosion on H.M.S.-------------- on the 22nd inst. The deceased officer, who was 24 years of age. was an old Sevenoaks School boy. He received his preliminary training on the Worcester, and afterwards sailed round the world as a Cadet in the Port Jackson. He was in the armoured lines. Otway, when that vessel was torpedoed.
Note: Assistant Paymaster Thomas S. Phelps. R.N.R was lost on H.M.S. Gaillardia
Sevenoaks Chronicle and Kentish Advertiser - Friday 29 March 1918
Considerable sympathy will be felt for Mr. and Mrs. Phelps, of Knowle View, Bayham-road, .Sevenoaks. whose second son. Assistant Paymaster Thomas S. Phelps. R.N.R., was killed an explosion on H.M.S.-------------- on the 22nd inst. The deceased officer, who was 24 years of age. was an old Sevenoaks School boy. He received his preliminary training on the Worcester, and afterwards sailed round the world as a Cadet in the Port Jackson. He was in the armoured lines. Otway, when that vessel was torpedoed.
Note: Assistant Paymaster Thomas S. Phelps. R.N.R was lost on H.M.S. Gaillardia
Mr. C . E, Black
Merthyr Express - Saturday 14 June 1919
NAVAL EXAMINATION SUCCESS. - Mr. C . E, Black, son of Mr. and Mrs. C. J. Black, and late of His Majesty's Destroyer Oxford , has been successful in obtaining the certification of second officer in the mercantile marine. He is 19 years of age, and was aboard H.M.S. Cornwall and H.M.S. Otway when these vessels were torpedoed and sunk at sea.
Merthyr Express - Saturday 14 June 1919
NAVAL EXAMINATION SUCCESS. - Mr. C . E, Black, son of Mr. and Mrs. C. J. Black, and late of His Majesty's Destroyer Oxford , has been successful in obtaining the certification of second officer in the mercantile marine. He is 19 years of age, and was aboard H.M.S. Cornwall and H.M.S. Otway when these vessels were torpedoed and sunk at sea.
H. H. Thompson, Yeoman of Signals
Sheffield Daily Telegraph - Friday 27 June 1919
Gallant Exploits at Sea
H. H. Thompson, Yeoman of Signals. From August 4th. 1914, served in H.M.S. Hawke until that ship was sunk by torpedo from a German submarine on October 15th. 1914. Then served on northern patrol in H.M.S. Otway. Mentioned in dispatches for services rendered during these fifteen months. Transferred to H.M.S. Southampton February 23rd, 1916. Took part in Jutland battle.
Sheffield Daily Telegraph - Friday 27 June 1919
Gallant Exploits at Sea
H. H. Thompson, Yeoman of Signals. From August 4th. 1914, served in H.M.S. Hawke until that ship was sunk by torpedo from a German submarine on October 15th. 1914. Then served on northern patrol in H.M.S. Otway. Mentioned in dispatches for services rendered during these fifteen months. Transferred to H.M.S. Southampton February 23rd, 1916. Took part in Jutland battle.
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Signaller David Horace Jones,
South Wales Daily Post - Tuesday 31 July 1917
SURVIVOR FROM THE OTWAY
Mr. W.W. Jones, Beddoe Springfield-street, Morriston, has received news that his son, Signaller David Horace Jones, who was on board the ill- fated H.M.S. Otway, which was sunk by a submarine last week, is one of the survivors and is now at Chatham. Signaller Jones, who is 21 years of age, was the first to sight the periscope of the submarine, and has been recommended for the D.S.M.
SURVIVOR FROM THE OTWAY
Mr. W.W. Jones, Beddoe Springfield-street, Morriston, has received news that his son, Signaller David Horace Jones, who was on board the ill- fated H.M.S. Otway, which was sunk by a submarine last week, is one of the survivors and is now at Chatham. Signaller Jones, who is 21 years of age, was the first to sight the periscope of the submarine, and has been recommended for the D.S.M.
