S.S. Active
Painting of SS Active of Dundee 1877 - 1881 by W.L Low (Dundee Art Galleries & Museums)
House flag of the Hudson Bay Company
SS Active 24-25 /12/1915
Displacement: 353 grt.
Length: 35.66 m. Beam: 8.68 m. Draught: 5.51 m.
Propulsion: , 1 Screw, 2 cyl comp & sail.
Machinery:
Complement: 18.
Men Lost: 18
Armament: No
Displacement: 353 grt.
Length: 35.66 m. Beam: 8.68 m. Draught: 5.51 m.
Propulsion: , 1 Screw, 2 cyl comp & sail.
Machinery:
Complement: 18.
Men Lost: 18
Armament: No
The wooden whaler Active was built by Lunnan & Robertson of Peterhead in 1852.
In 1873 registration was changed to Dundee. When lost was under ownership of the Hudson Bay Company. Official Number: 19557.
In 1873 registration was changed to Dundee. When lost was under ownership of the Hudson Bay Company. Official Number: 19557.
The Whaler S.S. Active in Dundee
Lloyd's Register of Shipping 1854
History
Dundee Courier - Thursday 09 February 1871
PETERHEAD.
Another Addition to our Screw Whalers. —The Active, the property of Mr Brown Howe of Buchan, and commanded by Captain Martin, has just been converted into screw steamer, thus making five steam vessels belonging to the port for the northern fisheries.
Dundee Courier - Friday 26 September 1873
We understand that the whaler Active, of Peterhead, has been purchased by Mr George Welch and others of this port. The Active is a vessel of 236 tons, and will continue to be used in the seal and whale fishing. She is expected to arrive at Dundee in a day or two.
Buchan Observer and East Aberdeenshire Advertiser - Friday 26 September 1873
SALE OF THE ACTIVE .—The s.s. whaler Active has been sold by private bargain to Dundee owners for £6500
Dundee People's Journal - Saturday 27 September 1873
PURCHASE OF PETERHEAD WHALER BY DUNDEE OWNERS. —The s.s. whaler Active, of Peterhead has been sold by private bargain to a Dundee firm for £6500, The Active has engaged in the the prosecution of seal and whale fishing and in 1871 converted into a screw steam ship, Two months ago this vessel was exposed for sale by public competition at the upset price of £7000, but no offers were then made.
Dundee Courier - Tuesday 17 February 1874
Trial Trip of the S.S. Active. —This vessel, which was purchased last year from Peterhead owners by the Tay Whale Fishing Company to add to our present large fleet of whaling ships, went out on her trial trip yesterday. Mr Welch, the managing owner, Mr Strong, and several other gentlemen were among those on board. The vessel was taken to the measured mile, when series of runs were made. The mean speed attained was seven knots, which was considered by those on board to be highly satisfactory. This is the second vessel belonging to the same owners which, within a short time, has got new machinery fitted with all the latest improvements for the saving of fuel. The result of the trial may have tendency to persuade other owners of whalers to follow the example now given. The engines of the Active were made by Messrs Hall, Russell, & Co., of Aberdeen, a few years ago, and since then purchased by the present owners. The engines have been compounded by Messrs Gourlay Brothers & Co.
Trial Trip of the S.S. Active. —This vessel, which was purchased last year from Peterhead owners by the Tay Whale Fishing Company to add to our present large fleet of whaling ships, went out on her trial trip yesterday. Mr Welch, the managing owner, Mr Strong, and several other gentlemen were among those on board. The vessel was taken to the measured mile, when series of runs were made. The mean speed attained was seven knots, which was considered by those on board to be highly satisfactory. This is the second vessel belonging to the same owners which, within a short time, has got new machinery fitted with all the latest improvements for the saving of fuel. The result of the trial may have tendency to persuade other owners of whalers to follow the example now given. The engines of the Active were made by Messrs Hall, Russell, & Co., of Aberdeen, a few years ago, and since then purchased by the present owners. The engines have been compounded by Messrs Gourlay Brothers & Co.
Dundee Evening Telegraph - Wednesday 24 April 1878
ACCIDENT BOARD THE WHALER ACTIVE. THIS DAY. - This forenoon John Forbes, a sailor, residing in Barrack Street, received an accident while working on board the whaler Active, presently lying in Victoria Dock. Along with some others he was engaged rigging out the jibboom, when iron eye attached to block gave way, causing the block to fall and strike Forbes severe blow above the right eye. The force of the blow knocked him to the deck of the ship, and rendered him insensible. Assistance was speedily procured, and he was taken the Infirmary and had his injuries attended to.
ACCIDENT BOARD THE WHALER ACTIVE. THIS DAY. - This forenoon John Forbes, a sailor, residing in Barrack Street, received an accident while working on board the whaler Active, presently lying in Victoria Dock. Along with some others he was engaged rigging out the jibboom, when iron eye attached to block gave way, causing the block to fall and strike Forbes severe blow above the right eye. The force of the blow knocked him to the deck of the ship, and rendered him insensible. Assistance was speedily procured, and he was taken the Infirmary and had his injuries attended to.
Dundee Evening Telegraph - Tuesday 29 October 1878
ARRIVAL OF WHALERS. The Jan Mayen, Captain Deuchars (two whales, 42 tuns of oil), and the Victor, Capt. Fairweather [clean ship), arrived in the river to-day. They will be docked between three and four o'clock the afternoon. One of tbe crew the Active, native of Shetland, died during the voyage.
ARRIVAL OF WHALERS. The Jan Mayen, Captain Deuchars (two whales, 42 tuns of oil), and the Victor, Capt. Fairweather [clean ship), arrived in the river to-day. They will be docked between three and four o'clock the afternoon. One of tbe crew the Active, native of Shetland, died during the voyage.
Dundee Evening Telegraph - Monday 24 October 1881
THE WHALER ACTIVE. The whaler Active, Captain J. Fairweather, left Lerwick for Dundee last Thursday. She encountered very heavy weather, and was obliged to run for shelter into the Firth Forth, where she arrived on Sunday morning, all well. She is lying at anchor in St Margaret’s Hope, Queensferry.
THE WHALER ACTIVE. The whaler Active, Captain J. Fairweather, left Lerwick for Dundee last Thursday. She encountered very heavy weather, and was obliged to run for shelter into the Firth Forth, where she arrived on Sunday morning, all well. She is lying at anchor in St Margaret’s Hope, Queensferry.
Aberdeen Evening Express - Wednesday 06 August 1884
THE WHALER ACTIVE DISABLED. A herring boat arrived at Fraserburgh yesterday evening, and reported having passed the whaler Active, of Dundee, Captain Brown, about fifty miles north-east of Fraserburgh, with machinery broken down. According to previous reports the Active, with 65 tons of oil, had just got in amongst the old seals at Greenland when her machinery broke down, and she had to bear up for Iceland for repairs. It is supposed that after undergoing temporary repairs the machinery had again become disabled, necessitating the return of the vessel to Dundee.
THE WHALER ACTIVE DISABLED. A herring boat arrived at Fraserburgh yesterday evening, and reported having passed the whaler Active, of Dundee, Captain Brown, about fifty miles north-east of Fraserburgh, with machinery broken down. According to previous reports the Active, with 65 tons of oil, had just got in amongst the old seals at Greenland when her machinery broke down, and she had to bear up for Iceland for repairs. It is supposed that after undergoing temporary repairs the machinery had again become disabled, necessitating the return of the vessel to Dundee.
Liverpool Journal of Commerce - Saturday 14 January 1893
DUNDEE WHALERS IN THE SOUTH SEAS Information was received at Dundee yesterday regarding Dundee vessels which left the Tay in September last to prosecute whale fishing in the Antarctic Seas. The Balena, Active, and Diana have arrived all well at Port Stanley, Falkland Islands, but it is fully expected that they will now be engaged at the whale hunting grounds which are within a week’s sail of Port Stanley. Intelligence was also received regarding the Polar Star, dated November 16, in lat. 27S., long. 36 30 W. The Polar Star is proceeding direct to the whaling grounds. Great interest is being taken by scientific men in the success of the expedition, several scientists being with the vessels.
DUNDEE WHALERS IN THE SOUTH SEAS Information was received at Dundee yesterday regarding Dundee vessels which left the Tay in September last to prosecute whale fishing in the Antarctic Seas. The Balena, Active, and Diana have arrived all well at Port Stanley, Falkland Islands, but it is fully expected that they will now be engaged at the whale hunting grounds which are within a week’s sail of Port Stanley. Intelligence was also received regarding the Polar Star, dated November 16, in lat. 27S., long. 36 30 W. The Polar Star is proceeding direct to the whaling grounds. Great interest is being taken by scientific men in the success of the expedition, several scientists being with the vessels.
The Balena, Active, and Diana in Antarctica
Dundee Evening Telegraph - Monday 06 March 1893
NEWS FROM THE ANTARCTIC WHALERS
PROBABLE SUCCESS
SHIPS HOMEWARD BOUND
Mr Robert Kinness, Dundee, manager of the fleet which left the Tay in September to prosecute the whale fishing in the Antarctic Seas, received a telegram to-day concerning the ships. The cablegram is in cipher, and unfortunately the context has been mutilated in transmission. The purport of the message, however, so far as can be ascertained, is that the four ships -- Balena, Active, Diana, and Polar Star-- have passed the Falkland Islands homeward bound. Beyond this nothing can be learned from the telegram, so that the success or non-success of the expedition is only matter of conjecture. Those competent to express an opinion are sanguine that the fishing has been so far successful. Fishing can be carried on in the Antarctic Seas till well on in March. As the ships passed the Falklands not later than the middle of February they must have left the ice a month or six weeks sooner than was absolutely necessary. In these circumstance it is presumed that if the ships are not full the crews must have secured a catch which warranted them in making for home. Meantime further intelligence of the fleet is eagerly awaited.
Dundee Evening Telegraph - Wednesday 07 June 1893
THE WHALER ACTIVE SPOKEN. A telegram was received in Dundee to-day that the steamer Active, one of the four vessels which prosecuted the Antarctic whale fishing, had passed Stornoway this morning, on her way to Dundee. She is expected to reach Dundee tomorrow afternoon.
Liverpool Journal of Commerce - Thursday 08 June 1893
THE DUNDEE WHALER ACTIVE. The whaler Active, of Dundee, from the Antarctic Ocean whale fishing, arrived at Stromness on Monday short of coals, and took in a supply. The vessel has a full cargo of seals, and left shortly after for Dundee.
Shields Daily Gazette - Saturday 10 June 1893
ARRIVAL OF AN ANTARCTIC WHALER. The steamer Active, second of the four vessels fishing in the Antarctic regions, arrived yesterday at Dundee. She has full cargo of seals, but no whales. Captain Robertson believes that black whales, similar to the valuable Greenland species, are in the Antarctic regions. Hitherto unknown land was discovered in latitude 65 south, longitude 63 west. Important scientific observations have been made, and many interesting specimens acquired.
NEWS FROM THE ANTARCTIC WHALERS
PROBABLE SUCCESS
SHIPS HOMEWARD BOUND
Mr Robert Kinness, Dundee, manager of the fleet which left the Tay in September to prosecute the whale fishing in the Antarctic Seas, received a telegram to-day concerning the ships. The cablegram is in cipher, and unfortunately the context has been mutilated in transmission. The purport of the message, however, so far as can be ascertained, is that the four ships -- Balena, Active, Diana, and Polar Star-- have passed the Falkland Islands homeward bound. Beyond this nothing can be learned from the telegram, so that the success or non-success of the expedition is only matter of conjecture. Those competent to express an opinion are sanguine that the fishing has been so far successful. Fishing can be carried on in the Antarctic Seas till well on in March. As the ships passed the Falklands not later than the middle of February they must have left the ice a month or six weeks sooner than was absolutely necessary. In these circumstance it is presumed that if the ships are not full the crews must have secured a catch which warranted them in making for home. Meantime further intelligence of the fleet is eagerly awaited.
Dundee Evening Telegraph - Wednesday 07 June 1893
THE WHALER ACTIVE SPOKEN. A telegram was received in Dundee to-day that the steamer Active, one of the four vessels which prosecuted the Antarctic whale fishing, had passed Stornoway this morning, on her way to Dundee. She is expected to reach Dundee tomorrow afternoon.
Liverpool Journal of Commerce - Thursday 08 June 1893
THE DUNDEE WHALER ACTIVE. The whaler Active, of Dundee, from the Antarctic Ocean whale fishing, arrived at Stromness on Monday short of coals, and took in a supply. The vessel has a full cargo of seals, and left shortly after for Dundee.
Shields Daily Gazette - Saturday 10 June 1893
ARRIVAL OF AN ANTARCTIC WHALER. The steamer Active, second of the four vessels fishing in the Antarctic regions, arrived yesterday at Dundee. She has full cargo of seals, but no whales. Captain Robertson believes that black whales, similar to the valuable Greenland species, are in the Antarctic regions. Hitherto unknown land was discovered in latitude 65 south, longitude 63 west. Important scientific observations have been made, and many interesting specimens acquired.
Aberdeen Press and Journal - Wednesday 08 August 1894
DUNDEE HELP FOR A POLAR EXPEDITION. Negotiations are now in progress with the object of placing the Dundee whaler Active at the disposal of the party which, it is suggested, should be formed for the relief of the Wellman Arctic expedition. Captain Robertson, commander of the Active, has had life-long experience as ice navigator, and has a full share of that perseverance and courage essential to a whaling captain. The Active has just returned from the Greenland seal and whale fishing. Recent information states that the explorers’ ship—the Ragnvald Jarl—was on May 24th crushed in the ice near the Island of Walden. Walden Island is situated off the coast of Spitzbergen in lat. 80'30 N.,long 19 57 E. Six men returned, and the others continued their journey over the ice. Captain Robertson, interviewed on the subject, states that the party, after losing their ship, in all probability would establish depot on one of the Seven Islands, which are adjacent to Walden Island, and which would form a base of operations. The conditions for Arctic exploration this year Captain Robertson describes as very unfavourable. The prevailing south-west winds have caused the ice the north of Spitzbergen close up, and even with powerful steamer it would be difficult penetrate much further north than the 80th parallel of north latitude. In former years Captain Robertson has gone much further north without difficulty. Captain Robertson’s plan of succour is to land a depot of provisions at Ice Fjord, sending a party across the neck of land to within sight of the southern extremity of Mossel Fjord. Meanwhile the whaler would push her way round the coast to the Seven Islands, and make diligent search for the party.
DUNDEE HELP FOR A POLAR EXPEDITION. Negotiations are now in progress with the object of placing the Dundee whaler Active at the disposal of the party which, it is suggested, should be formed for the relief of the Wellman Arctic expedition. Captain Robertson, commander of the Active, has had life-long experience as ice navigator, and has a full share of that perseverance and courage essential to a whaling captain. The Active has just returned from the Greenland seal and whale fishing. Recent information states that the explorers’ ship—the Ragnvald Jarl—was on May 24th crushed in the ice near the Island of Walden. Walden Island is situated off the coast of Spitzbergen in lat. 80'30 N.,long 19 57 E. Six men returned, and the others continued their journey over the ice. Captain Robertson, interviewed on the subject, states that the party, after losing their ship, in all probability would establish depot on one of the Seven Islands, which are adjacent to Walden Island, and which would form a base of operations. The conditions for Arctic exploration this year Captain Robertson describes as very unfavourable. The prevailing south-west winds have caused the ice the north of Spitzbergen close up, and even with powerful steamer it would be difficult penetrate much further north than the 80th parallel of north latitude. In former years Captain Robertson has gone much further north without difficulty. Captain Robertson’s plan of succour is to land a depot of provisions at Ice Fjord, sending a party across the neck of land to within sight of the southern extremity of Mossel Fjord. Meanwhile the whaler would push her way round the coast to the Seven Islands, and make diligent search for the party.
Dundee Evening Telegraph - Wednesday 18 September 1895
OF NANSEN AND THE NORTH. The news that some Esquimaux report having seen in July last "a three-masted ship with short foremast" embedded in the drift ice in the latitude of Northern Iceland has thrilled the world. has once been conjectured that the ship described by the Esquimaux is the Fram, of the heroic explorer Nansen. was in June 1893 that Nansen, with twelve companions, started on this adventurous quest. He was reported to have crossed the Kara Sea in safety, and is supposed that he succeeded in reaching the New Siberian Islands. From the islands it was the intention of Nansen to steer towards the Pole. The Fram was to be confided to the tender mercies of the drift-ice, and the intrepid explorers were to wait events, confident the hope that the currents from Siberian Seas would bear ice and Fram Polewards, and then southwards down the east coast of Greenland. In the paper which he read at the meeting of Royal Geographical Society in November 1892, Nansen gave lucid explanation of his theory of the cross Pole current. His ingenious calculations were carefully worked out and fortified by startling facts. The considerable amount of Siberian driftwood which every year reaches the coasts of Greenland, and which is also found on the northern coasts of Spitzbergen and in the sea north of this land, was referred to proof that all had been carried southward from the unknown north by the currents which Parky and other explorers fought against in vain. The most remarkable of the facts adduced Nansen, and that which seemed to have the strongest hold on his imagination, was that relics of the Jeannette expedition were found on an ice-floe on the south-west coast of Greenland just three years after the Jeannette had sunk near the New Siberian Islands. Some doubt had been thrown upon the genuineness of the relics, but Nansen, with characteristic pertinacity, did not rest till he had traced the story of the relics and found confirmatory evidence of their being collected by an official in Greenland. Among the relics were list of provisions bearing the signature of De Long, the leader of the expedition ; written list of the boats of the Jeannette, and a pair of trousers made of oiled linen, marked " Louis Noros," the name of one of the men saved from the Jeannette. Should the " three-masted ship with short foremast" seen in latitude 65 prove be the Fram, the course of Nansen would be found almost identical with that of the ice floe which bore the relics of the Jeannette from the region of the New Siberian Islands Polewards and southwards to the coast of Greenland, and the rate the drift would probably be the same. But, after all, it is but conjecture that the ship said to be sighted is the Fram. It was towards the end of July that the Esquimaux are said to have seen the vessel just about the time that the Dundee whalers Active and Polar Star were hunting whales these seas. It was about the end of April that the Dundee ships sighted ice off Spitzbergen, many degrees further to the north than the points described by the Esquimaux. The whalers were engaged hunting for nearly three months, sometimes lying on the verge of the ice pack, the captains doubtless surveying the ice-fields for immense distances. It was not till the end of August that the Dundee ships steered for home, so that they had many opportunities of catching sight of a ship drifting slowly southwards. If credence is to be placed in the suggestion that the Fram was sighted in July drifting towards Cape Farewell, it would be well worth while dispatching a ship to solve the question. The voyage is not a long one, and late though the season is, search for the "three-masted ship with short foremast" could be accomplished in a comparatively short time. Hope runs high that the brave Nansen may have succeeded in reaching the Pole and crossing the icy barriers, and there will now be anxiety to learn whether the Esquimaux have really seen the Fram.
OF NANSEN AND THE NORTH. The news that some Esquimaux report having seen in July last "a three-masted ship with short foremast" embedded in the drift ice in the latitude of Northern Iceland has thrilled the world. has once been conjectured that the ship described by the Esquimaux is the Fram, of the heroic explorer Nansen. was in June 1893 that Nansen, with twelve companions, started on this adventurous quest. He was reported to have crossed the Kara Sea in safety, and is supposed that he succeeded in reaching the New Siberian Islands. From the islands it was the intention of Nansen to steer towards the Pole. The Fram was to be confided to the tender mercies of the drift-ice, and the intrepid explorers were to wait events, confident the hope that the currents from Siberian Seas would bear ice and Fram Polewards, and then southwards down the east coast of Greenland. In the paper which he read at the meeting of Royal Geographical Society in November 1892, Nansen gave lucid explanation of his theory of the cross Pole current. His ingenious calculations were carefully worked out and fortified by startling facts. The considerable amount of Siberian driftwood which every year reaches the coasts of Greenland, and which is also found on the northern coasts of Spitzbergen and in the sea north of this land, was referred to proof that all had been carried southward from the unknown north by the currents which Parky and other explorers fought against in vain. The most remarkable of the facts adduced Nansen, and that which seemed to have the strongest hold on his imagination, was that relics of the Jeannette expedition were found on an ice-floe on the south-west coast of Greenland just three years after the Jeannette had sunk near the New Siberian Islands. Some doubt had been thrown upon the genuineness of the relics, but Nansen, with characteristic pertinacity, did not rest till he had traced the story of the relics and found confirmatory evidence of their being collected by an official in Greenland. Among the relics were list of provisions bearing the signature of De Long, the leader of the expedition ; written list of the boats of the Jeannette, and a pair of trousers made of oiled linen, marked " Louis Noros," the name of one of the men saved from the Jeannette. Should the " three-masted ship with short foremast" seen in latitude 65 prove be the Fram, the course of Nansen would be found almost identical with that of the ice floe which bore the relics of the Jeannette from the region of the New Siberian Islands Polewards and southwards to the coast of Greenland, and the rate the drift would probably be the same. But, after all, it is but conjecture that the ship said to be sighted is the Fram. It was towards the end of July that the Esquimaux are said to have seen the vessel just about the time that the Dundee whalers Active and Polar Star were hunting whales these seas. It was about the end of April that the Dundee ships sighted ice off Spitzbergen, many degrees further to the north than the points described by the Esquimaux. The whalers were engaged hunting for nearly three months, sometimes lying on the verge of the ice pack, the captains doubtless surveying the ice-fields for immense distances. It was not till the end of August that the Dundee ships steered for home, so that they had many opportunities of catching sight of a ship drifting slowly southwards. If credence is to be placed in the suggestion that the Fram was sighted in July drifting towards Cape Farewell, it would be well worth while dispatching a ship to solve the question. The voyage is not a long one, and late though the season is, search for the "three-masted ship with short foremast" could be accomplished in a comparatively short time. Hope runs high that the brave Nansen may have succeeded in reaching the Pole and crossing the icy barriers, and there will now be anxiety to learn whether the Esquimaux have really seen the Fram.
Shields Daily Gazette - Friday 20 September 1895
THE NANSEN EXPEDITION. Captain Robertson, master of the Dundee whaler Active, told a Dundee Advertiser representative that he did not believe the ship sighted by Esquimaux was the Fram. '' Whenever a ship gets south of Spitzbergen it is among open ice. and is at liberty to make for home,'' says the captain, He thought that the boat which had been sighted was a Norwegian sealer. In the course of the interview the captain remarked that in his opinion Nansen's project was the most feasible for reaching the North Pole that had yet been made.
THE NANSEN EXPEDITION. Captain Robertson, master of the Dundee whaler Active, told a Dundee Advertiser representative that he did not believe the ship sighted by Esquimaux was the Fram. '' Whenever a ship gets south of Spitzbergen it is among open ice. and is at liberty to make for home,'' says the captain, He thought that the boat which had been sighted was a Norwegian sealer. In the course of the interview the captain remarked that in his opinion Nansen's project was the most feasible for reaching the North Pole that had yet been made.
Fife Free Press - Saturday 04 September 1897
NEWS FROM THE FAR NORTH
Nothing had been seen the Andree balloon, but plenty of stores have been left Cape Flora case he or other explorers happen reach the place. The Balaena and Active bore up for home on the 12th August, but as the Active was short of coal she would take longer on the passage.
NEWS FROM THE FAR NORTH
Nothing had been seen the Andree balloon, but plenty of stores have been left Cape Flora case he or other explorers happen reach the place. The Balaena and Active bore up for home on the 12th August, but as the Active was short of coal she would take longer on the passage.
Montrose Review - Friday 10 September 1897
By the arrival of the Dundee whaler Active at Lerwick, the last of the Greenland whaling fleet has come to hand. The season all over has been a failure.
By the arrival of the Dundee whaler Active at Lerwick, the last of the Greenland whaling fleet has come to hand. The season all over has been a failure.
Sheffield Evening Telegraph - Friday 17 November 1899
Captain Murray, of the steam whaler Active, arrived at Dundee yesterday from Hudson’s Bay. He reporied the total loss of the steam whaler Polar Star on October 15th. About 130 walrus hides and part of the ship’s gear were saved by the Active. The crew were also saved.
Captain Murray, of the steam whaler Active, arrived at Dundee yesterday from Hudson’s Bay. He reporied the total loss of the steam whaler Polar Star on October 15th. About 130 walrus hides and part of the ship’s gear were saved by the Active. The crew were also saved.
Dundee Evening Telegraph - Monday 13 June 1904
THE WHALER ACTIVE. BROUGHTY SEAMAN MISSING. The whaler Active, of Dundee, Captain Alexander Murray, put into Peterhead Bay yesterday morning and reported the loss of James Conway, a young seaman belonging to Broughty Ferry. The Active left Dundee Thursday for Hudson Bay, and she had only been a few hours on the passage when Conway was discovered to be missing. Search was made for him all over the vessel but without avail, and as he was not seen to have gone ashore with any of the boats which accompanied the vessel some distance, it is conjectured he had fallen overboard.
THE WHALER ACTIVE. BROUGHTY SEAMAN MISSING. The whaler Active, of Dundee, Captain Alexander Murray, put into Peterhead Bay yesterday morning and reported the loss of James Conway, a young seaman belonging to Broughty Ferry. The Active left Dundee Thursday for Hudson Bay, and she had only been a few hours on the passage when Conway was discovered to be missing. Search was made for him all over the vessel but without avail, and as he was not seen to have gone ashore with any of the boats which accompanied the vessel some distance, it is conjectured he had fallen overboard.
Dundee Evening Telegraph - Tuesday 28 June 1904
The body of John Conway, who mysteriously disappeared from the whaler Active about three weeks ago, was picked out of the water near Dundee Fish Dock last night.
The body of John Conway, who mysteriously disappeared from the whaler Active about three weeks ago, was picked out of the water near Dundee Fish Dock last night.
Dundee Evening Post - Thursday 21 July 1904
The next inquiry was into the death of John Conway, jun., 9th June, who was drowned in the River Tay from the whaler Active, which had started on a voyage to Hudson Bay. The father of Conway stated that his son left his house in good health 9th June. On the 27th June identified the body in the mortuary of Dundee Police Office. The pilot who took out the Active said Conway was missed the night of their departure from Dundee. The body was found the beach at the east side of the Dundee Fish Dock.
The next inquiry was into the death of John Conway, jun., 9th June, who was drowned in the River Tay from the whaler Active, which had started on a voyage to Hudson Bay. The father of Conway stated that his son left his house in good health 9th June. On the 27th June identified the body in the mortuary of Dundee Police Office. The pilot who took out the Active said Conway was missed the night of their departure from Dundee. The body was found the beach at the east side of the Dundee Fish Dock.
Dundee Courier - Wednesday 27 October 1909
DUNDEE WHALERS HAVE EXCITING EXPERIENCE.
MORRISON IS NOT ON ACTIVE.
The Dundee whaler Active arrived in the Tay yesterday after an exciting season among the walrus. Captain Murray reports his total catch, besides a small whale from Repulse Bay station, is 480 walrus, 105 bears. 247 seals and a live bear, which is one the finest specimens the captain has ever teen in the Arctic. He has also a quantity of mica. Leaving the Tay on 7th June, the Active, with the exception of several days detention at Cape Wrath, met fair weather, and the icefields were reached about the end of the month. Lake Harbour was the first point of call up north, but an ice jam kept the Active out of the harbour for several days.
MORRISON NOT ON BOABD.
There Captain Murray first heard news of the Snowdrop, but during his stay in the Arctic never heard of John Morrison, the Snowdrop seaman who had had his feet amputated and was left in the charge of Eskimos, attempting to push a way through the Polar regions the Active's port of call. At Lake Harbour Captain Murray landed quarrymen from Tayside who were to work in mining mica nearby. Shortly after this the Active proceeded up the Straits to the seal and walrus grounds, but the opening experiences were not reassuring. The first walrus was got July, and nine days had elapsed before he got more, a score them being captured. The weather this period had been thick, with heavy rains, and it proved to be a sample the atmospheric conditions all the time. There was scarcely a good day.
WALRUS ATTACK BOATS.
It was while the Active was on her way to Repulse Bay that walrus were sighted in large numbers. Off Sea Horse Point, in Fox Channel, there ensued several weeks hunting, and the walrus were sadly depleted, not, however, without having showed fight, and repeatedly attacked the boats. They knocked holes the little craft, but the whalemen were prepared, and whenever the timber crashed in the boat would drawn to the shore or on an iceberg and sheet lead put over the holes. Not whale was sighted. Through the night one was beard blowing, but the weather was thick that the whalemen could barely see from end to end of the Active, far less trace the movements the whale. Meantime the walrus hunt went on 149 hides were caught on one day,
AN ARCTIC TRAGADY.
On reaching Republic Bay Captain Murray heard of a tragic ending to a walrus hunt. A section of the North-West Mounted Patrol on their huge " beat" in the Arctic took part in walrus hunt off Marble Island in a small boat. The walrus, however, pressed round the craft in threatening manner, and one of the police fell into the water. In his excitement, the unfortunate man got " wandered " with so many walrus round about him, and instead of swimming back to the boat he immediately struck out for the open water and was never seen again. At Repulse Bay Active took on board from the station there a small whale, four feet six inches length, yielding about 4 cwts of bone. On the return journey Lake Harbour more walrus wore captured, and after taking aboard a quantity mica the Active left for home 4th October. weather was not propitious all the way, but the passage was without incident.
A TAME BEAR.
Captain Murray told interesting story about the live bear. It was one of two which lived with natives, quite tame. Ono died, but other was brought off to the Active in a boat by a woman, whose only control over Bruin consisted of string, one end of which was fastened his neck, the other being held by the woman.
DUNDEE WHALERS HAVE EXCITING EXPERIENCE.
MORRISON IS NOT ON ACTIVE.
The Dundee whaler Active arrived in the Tay yesterday after an exciting season among the walrus. Captain Murray reports his total catch, besides a small whale from Repulse Bay station, is 480 walrus, 105 bears. 247 seals and a live bear, which is one the finest specimens the captain has ever teen in the Arctic. He has also a quantity of mica. Leaving the Tay on 7th June, the Active, with the exception of several days detention at Cape Wrath, met fair weather, and the icefields were reached about the end of the month. Lake Harbour was the first point of call up north, but an ice jam kept the Active out of the harbour for several days.
MORRISON NOT ON BOABD.
There Captain Murray first heard news of the Snowdrop, but during his stay in the Arctic never heard of John Morrison, the Snowdrop seaman who had had his feet amputated and was left in the charge of Eskimos, attempting to push a way through the Polar regions the Active's port of call. At Lake Harbour Captain Murray landed quarrymen from Tayside who were to work in mining mica nearby. Shortly after this the Active proceeded up the Straits to the seal and walrus grounds, but the opening experiences were not reassuring. The first walrus was got July, and nine days had elapsed before he got more, a score them being captured. The weather this period had been thick, with heavy rains, and it proved to be a sample the atmospheric conditions all the time. There was scarcely a good day.
WALRUS ATTACK BOATS.
It was while the Active was on her way to Repulse Bay that walrus were sighted in large numbers. Off Sea Horse Point, in Fox Channel, there ensued several weeks hunting, and the walrus were sadly depleted, not, however, without having showed fight, and repeatedly attacked the boats. They knocked holes the little craft, but the whalemen were prepared, and whenever the timber crashed in the boat would drawn to the shore or on an iceberg and sheet lead put over the holes. Not whale was sighted. Through the night one was beard blowing, but the weather was thick that the whalemen could barely see from end to end of the Active, far less trace the movements the whale. Meantime the walrus hunt went on 149 hides were caught on one day,
AN ARCTIC TRAGADY.
On reaching Republic Bay Captain Murray heard of a tragic ending to a walrus hunt. A section of the North-West Mounted Patrol on their huge " beat" in the Arctic took part in walrus hunt off Marble Island in a small boat. The walrus, however, pressed round the craft in threatening manner, and one of the police fell into the water. In his excitement, the unfortunate man got " wandered " with so many walrus round about him, and instead of swimming back to the boat he immediately struck out for the open water and was never seen again. At Repulse Bay Active took on board from the station there a small whale, four feet six inches length, yielding about 4 cwts of bone. On the return journey Lake Harbour more walrus wore captured, and after taking aboard a quantity mica the Active left for home 4th October. weather was not propitious all the way, but the passage was without incident.
A TAME BEAR.
Captain Murray told interesting story about the live bear. It was one of two which lived with natives, quite tame. Ono died, but other was brought off to the Active in a boat by a woman, whose only control over Bruin consisted of string, one end of which was fastened his neck, the other being held by the woman.
Dundee Evening Telegraph - Thursday 13 June 1912
Jack Taylor, the apprentice the Dundee whaler Active, taking his mattress aboard. Inset —Captain Alex. Murray.
Dundee Courier - Saturday 20 September 1913
HAS THE OLD DUNDEE WHALER ACTIVE BEEN WRECKED IN THE ARCTIC SEAS?
OMINOUS CABLEGRAM FROM NEWFOUNDLAND.
Has the old Dundee whaler Active been wrecked in the Arctic? A rumour to this effect gained currency at the Harbour yesterday, but Mr Robert Kinnes, the managing proprietor, informed the "Courier" last night that they had received no intimation of the Active being in trouble. The only foundation was the following paragraph from the Journal of Commerce:— Active (s) —St John's, N.F., cables that the old whaling steamer Active has gone ashore on the Gravels during a south-west gale, and will become a total wreck. Mr Kinnes stated that they had no idea where the Gravels were situated, and he held the opinion that if it had been the Dundee whaler the St John's agents would cable him at once. "It is not the first time." he added, " that the Active has been reported wrecked, and she has always come home. ' The Active is commanded by Captain Alexander Murray Faichfield, near Peterhead, while Mr James Bannerman, one of Dundee's best-known and oldest Arctic navigators, is chief officer. The crew, which numbers between 25 and 30, hail from Dundee and Peterhead. Supposing it is the Dundee whaler, no fears are entertained to the safety of the crew, as it will be noticed that the cablegram states that the vessel went ashore, and would become a total wreck. This would indicate that the men would have time to clear the vessel. The Active set sail from Dundee in June of last year, and she is expected to return next month. She went out to Hudson Bay more with the object of trading among the natives than of prosecuting the whaling.
HAS THE OLD DUNDEE WHALER ACTIVE BEEN WRECKED IN THE ARCTIC SEAS?
OMINOUS CABLEGRAM FROM NEWFOUNDLAND.
Has the old Dundee whaler Active been wrecked in the Arctic? A rumour to this effect gained currency at the Harbour yesterday, but Mr Robert Kinnes, the managing proprietor, informed the "Courier" last night that they had received no intimation of the Active being in trouble. The only foundation was the following paragraph from the Journal of Commerce:— Active (s) —St John's, N.F., cables that the old whaling steamer Active has gone ashore on the Gravels during a south-west gale, and will become a total wreck. Mr Kinnes stated that they had no idea where the Gravels were situated, and he held the opinion that if it had been the Dundee whaler the St John's agents would cable him at once. "It is not the first time." he added, " that the Active has been reported wrecked, and she has always come home. ' The Active is commanded by Captain Alexander Murray Faichfield, near Peterhead, while Mr James Bannerman, one of Dundee's best-known and oldest Arctic navigators, is chief officer. The crew, which numbers between 25 and 30, hail from Dundee and Peterhead. Supposing it is the Dundee whaler, no fears are entertained to the safety of the crew, as it will be noticed that the cablegram states that the vessel went ashore, and would become a total wreck. This would indicate that the men would have time to clear the vessel. The Active set sail from Dundee in June of last year, and she is expected to return next month. She went out to Hudson Bay more with the object of trading among the natives than of prosecuting the whaling.
Buchan Observer and East Aberdeenshire Advertiser - Tuesday 07 October 1913
DEATH OF CAPTAIN ALEXANDER MURRAY, PETERHEAD
A WELL KNOWN WHALER. The sad news reached Peterhead on Saturday of the death of Captain Alexander Murray, master of the whaler Active of Dundee, on 11th November, 1912, at the Ottawa Islands, East Hudson Bay, where the vessel had been wintering
DEATH OF CAPTAIN ALEXANDER MURRAY, PETERHEAD
A WELL KNOWN WHALER. The sad news reached Peterhead on Saturday of the death of Captain Alexander Murray, master of the whaler Active of Dundee, on 11th November, 1912, at the Ottawa Islands, East Hudson Bay, where the vessel had been wintering
Captain Alexander Murray
The Active is well-known barque rigged vessel and was built as long ago as 1852 in Peterhead. She was expected to reach Long Hope, in the Orkney Islands yesterday., The Active has six whales and big cargo of valuable skins on board Ceptain Murray is a son of the late Captain Alexander Murray who was for years master of the whaler Windward, a vessel which has become historic, not only in the annals of whaling but in with other Arctic adventures, in bringing home Nansen from Franz Josef Land, after his heroic but unsuccessful effort to reach the North Pole, in 1897. Captain Murray, of the Active, died early in November of last year at Hudson Bay, where the vessel bed been wintering. He was 52 years of age. His seafaring career was begun in the ‘eighties', when be went whale fishing with his father in the old Windward. After making a with the late Captain Dougal of Peterhead, the southern seas and to west coast of America he again went whaling in the Greenland seas, first with his uncle, Captain Salmond, of Peterhead, in the Star of Dundee, afterwards as mate with Thomas Robertson of Peterhead, whose name is a prominent one in connection with both Arctic and Antarctic fishing. Mr Murray is next seen in command of his fathers old ship the Windward now hailing from Dundee.
One voyage was made in the Windward, and next year Captain Murray took Polar Star out to Greenland and is is through his success with these vessels he obtained command. in 1897, of the Active of Dundee, a post he occupied up to the time of his death, his brother, Captain John Murray, accompanied him in 1898 as mate.
In later years the Active has been employed exclusively in the Hudson Bay fishing, in which she had been very successful, mostly in her catch of Walrus.
An unfounded rumour obtained currency a few weeks ago that the Active had gone ashore in Hudson Bay, but no news came to hand at the time of her captain's death is noteworthy that his brother and former shipmate, Captain John Murray, now of the whaler Albert of Peterhead, which arrived from Hudson Bay on Saturday the first news of the sad event from Captain Smith, of the Hudson Bay Company's ship Pelican when in mid-ocean, 10th September last.
Captain Alexander Murray was a typical whaling captain, bluff and hearty and was held in high esteem by all who knew him. He lived at Faicthcleld House, Longside, when at home, and that, together with his commend of Dundee ship, made less well-known in Peterhead in late years then he used to be.
He had many friends however in the town, and these will sincerely regret his death and extend their deepest sympathy to his widow and three of a family whom he is survived.
A Longside correspondent writes: The sad intelligence received here on Sunday morning of the death of Captain Murray cast quite a gloom in the village and neighbourhood and the deepest regret is expressed by all who knew him. Captain Murray and his family have for a length of time been obesely connected with Longside life as the respected tenant's of Faicthcleld House.
During all these years Captain Murray, when at home, was a daily visitor to the village, where by his frank, kindly disposition he made hosts of friends, all of whom mourn today a common loss
and extend the deepest sympathy to his bereaved widow, family and relatives.
One voyage was made in the Windward, and next year Captain Murray took Polar Star out to Greenland and is is through his success with these vessels he obtained command. in 1897, of the Active of Dundee, a post he occupied up to the time of his death, his brother, Captain John Murray, accompanied him in 1898 as mate.
In later years the Active has been employed exclusively in the Hudson Bay fishing, in which she had been very successful, mostly in her catch of Walrus.
An unfounded rumour obtained currency a few weeks ago that the Active had gone ashore in Hudson Bay, but no news came to hand at the time of her captain's death is noteworthy that his brother and former shipmate, Captain John Murray, now of the whaler Albert of Peterhead, which arrived from Hudson Bay on Saturday the first news of the sad event from Captain Smith, of the Hudson Bay Company's ship Pelican when in mid-ocean, 10th September last.
Captain Alexander Murray was a typical whaling captain, bluff and hearty and was held in high esteem by all who knew him. He lived at Faicthcleld House, Longside, when at home, and that, together with his commend of Dundee ship, made less well-known in Peterhead in late years then he used to be.
He had many friends however in the town, and these will sincerely regret his death and extend their deepest sympathy to his widow and three of a family whom he is survived.
A Longside correspondent writes: The sad intelligence received here on Sunday morning of the death of Captain Murray cast quite a gloom in the village and neighbourhood and the deepest regret is expressed by all who knew him. Captain Murray and his family have for a length of time been obesely connected with Longside life as the respected tenant's of Faicthcleld House.
During all these years Captain Murray, when at home, was a daily visitor to the village, where by his frank, kindly disposition he made hosts of friends, all of whom mourn today a common loss
and extend the deepest sympathy to his bereaved widow, family and relatives.
Dundee Courier - Monday 13 October 1913
DUNDEE WHALER'S FATAL VOYAGE.
Harpooner Peter Stewart
The voyage of the Dundee Active, which is expected reach the Tay any day now, has been sad one for those on board. Captain Alexander Murray, master of the vessel, died not long after the start the voyage, and now news has reached Dundee of the death in the Arctic in June last of Peter Stewart, one of the harpooners. Stewart, whose photograph is reproduced above, was associated with the whale fishing practically all his life, and made a number of voyages with the Active. He was 58 years age, and resided at 164 Overgate, Dundee.
Aberdeen Press and Journal - Friday 17 October 1913
DUNDEE WHALER'S RETURN ARCTIC GRAVES FOR SKIPPER AND THE HARPOONER. The crew the Dundee whaler Active, which returned to the Tay yesterday after absence of sixteen months at the whale fishing, bring home a sad story of the death the Arctic Regions of Captain Alexander Murray and the harpooner, Stewart. The skipper, a Peterhead man, died from stomach trouble, and Stewart, who hailed from Dundee, gradually failed, until one day he sat down beside the cook in the galley, gave a deep sigh and expired. Side by side they were buried in improvised coffins on Gilmour Island, One of the Ottawa group in Hudson Bay. The natives as well as the crew were deeply touched by the simple graveside ceremony, and besides cairns of stones to preserve the remains from the ravages of bears, wooden headstones were erected.
The catch consists of six whales (yielding four tons of bone and 60 tons of oil) 25 Walrus skins, and 25 bear skins. For eight of the sixteen months out the Active was imprisoned in the ice, the frost thawing in May.
DUNDEE WHALER'S RETURN ARCTIC GRAVES FOR SKIPPER AND THE HARPOONER. The crew the Dundee whaler Active, which returned to the Tay yesterday after absence of sixteen months at the whale fishing, bring home a sad story of the death the Arctic Regions of Captain Alexander Murray and the harpooner, Stewart. The skipper, a Peterhead man, died from stomach trouble, and Stewart, who hailed from Dundee, gradually failed, until one day he sat down beside the cook in the galley, gave a deep sigh and expired. Side by side they were buried in improvised coffins on Gilmour Island, One of the Ottawa group in Hudson Bay. The natives as well as the crew were deeply touched by the simple graveside ceremony, and besides cairns of stones to preserve the remains from the ravages of bears, wooden headstones were erected.
The catch consists of six whales (yielding four tons of bone and 60 tons of oil) 25 Walrus skins, and 25 bear skins. For eight of the sixteen months out the Active was imprisoned in the ice, the frost thawing in May.
Shetland News - Saturday 25 October 1913
LONELY ARCTIC GRAVES. Dug by Crew of Dundee Whaler Active. : For Captain and Harpooner.
With the return of the Dundee whaler Active to the Tay on Thursday last comes an impressive narrative of the death and burial in the icy Arctic of Captain Alexander Murray and Peter Stewart, the harpooneer. For some time before the Active commenced her eight months’ imprisonment in the ice the skipper was far from well, and although his appetite was good, his digestion was extremely bad. On 11th November, 1912, at four o'clock in the morning, Captain Murray breathed his last. During the day, while a grave was being dug by the boat’s crew, the carpenter and the blacksmith constructed a coffin, and next day the funeral took place. Reverently transferring the coffin to a boat, the crew and natives rowed to the mainland, where, after a simple but impressive ceremony, the remains of the captain were laid to rest, the lonely grave being sentinelled by & cordon of huge mountains. A cairn of stones was constructed to preserve the interred remains from the ravages of the bears, and the spot was further marked by the erection of a wooden headstone. By the middle of June, 1913, Peter Stewart, the harpooneer, seemed to be failing rapidly, and evinced no inclination to help himself. On the forenoon of Monday the 23rd, he managed to walk as far as the galley, and, sitting down beside the cook, he gave a sigh and expired. For the second time a mournful party crossed to the land, and set to work preparing a place of rest, this time for their dead harpooner. By the side of his captain, Stewart was buried by his comrades, the natives joining in the sad funeral procession over the rough ice.
THE ACTIVE'S VOYAGE.
Lake Harbour, in Hudson Straits, near where the ill-fated Seduisante went down with all hands, was the first port of call after the crew was supplemented by taking aboard a number of natives, who were put ashore at Southampton Island to hunt enough deer to make winter clothes, while the remains of the station were dismantled and hoisted on deck. Gilmour Island, one of the Ottawa group, on the east side of Hudson Bay, was made the headquarters, and from there fishing was prosecuted. Very hard frost prevailed, but an encouraging catch was made before the ice hemmed the ship in for the winter. Six whales were sighted up to that time, but only three were caught, the others breaking away and damaging the gear. A number of walrus and bears were captured; the skins being cleaned and preserved. From November until May the Active was in the grip of the ice, the thaw being marked by he snow giving place to rain. Three more whales were landed when the boats were launched again, and a fourth got away. Of the six whales taken, five were captured by the natives, M'Millan, |he sailmaker, landing the sixth. These fish yield 4 tons of bone and 60 tons of oil, the walrus and bear skins numbering about 25 each. One of the last things Captain Murray did was to name the winter rendezvous of the Active, Murray Harbour, it being a shelter admirably suited to the requirements of the whaler. The harbour extends right into the heart of Gilmour Island, and is divided into four smaller '' lochs '' ‘- the outer, middle, inner, and innermost. It was in the inner harbour that the Active wintered. . Round the whole island stretches a range of mountains, and at the entrance to the harbour there is land station, Tupik Point, used by the natives. It was to the encampment that Fleming, the assistant engineer, made weekly expeditions with stores carried on dog sledges. The voyage home, with Captain Bannerman in charge, was interrupted by a stop at Longhope tor coal. Here M'Millan was outshipped, and had to proceed to Dundee by rail. An Orkney sheep was taken on board, and afforded some amusement to the crew on the way to the Tay. It is now tethered to the deck. and awaits purchase by the highest bidder. The vessel was brought home by Capt., James ‘Bannerman. who was acting as mate. Capt. Bannerman has had long experience in -the Arctic fishings.
LONELY ARCTIC GRAVES. Dug by Crew of Dundee Whaler Active. : For Captain and Harpooner.
With the return of the Dundee whaler Active to the Tay on Thursday last comes an impressive narrative of the death and burial in the icy Arctic of Captain Alexander Murray and Peter Stewart, the harpooneer. For some time before the Active commenced her eight months’ imprisonment in the ice the skipper was far from well, and although his appetite was good, his digestion was extremely bad. On 11th November, 1912, at four o'clock in the morning, Captain Murray breathed his last. During the day, while a grave was being dug by the boat’s crew, the carpenter and the blacksmith constructed a coffin, and next day the funeral took place. Reverently transferring the coffin to a boat, the crew and natives rowed to the mainland, where, after a simple but impressive ceremony, the remains of the captain were laid to rest, the lonely grave being sentinelled by & cordon of huge mountains. A cairn of stones was constructed to preserve the interred remains from the ravages of the bears, and the spot was further marked by the erection of a wooden headstone. By the middle of June, 1913, Peter Stewart, the harpooneer, seemed to be failing rapidly, and evinced no inclination to help himself. On the forenoon of Monday the 23rd, he managed to walk as far as the galley, and, sitting down beside the cook, he gave a sigh and expired. For the second time a mournful party crossed to the land, and set to work preparing a place of rest, this time for their dead harpooner. By the side of his captain, Stewart was buried by his comrades, the natives joining in the sad funeral procession over the rough ice.
THE ACTIVE'S VOYAGE.
Lake Harbour, in Hudson Straits, near where the ill-fated Seduisante went down with all hands, was the first port of call after the crew was supplemented by taking aboard a number of natives, who were put ashore at Southampton Island to hunt enough deer to make winter clothes, while the remains of the station were dismantled and hoisted on deck. Gilmour Island, one of the Ottawa group, on the east side of Hudson Bay, was made the headquarters, and from there fishing was prosecuted. Very hard frost prevailed, but an encouraging catch was made before the ice hemmed the ship in for the winter. Six whales were sighted up to that time, but only three were caught, the others breaking away and damaging the gear. A number of walrus and bears were captured; the skins being cleaned and preserved. From November until May the Active was in the grip of the ice, the thaw being marked by he snow giving place to rain. Three more whales were landed when the boats were launched again, and a fourth got away. Of the six whales taken, five were captured by the natives, M'Millan, |he sailmaker, landing the sixth. These fish yield 4 tons of bone and 60 tons of oil, the walrus and bear skins numbering about 25 each. One of the last things Captain Murray did was to name the winter rendezvous of the Active, Murray Harbour, it being a shelter admirably suited to the requirements of the whaler. The harbour extends right into the heart of Gilmour Island, and is divided into four smaller '' lochs '' ‘- the outer, middle, inner, and innermost. It was in the inner harbour that the Active wintered. . Round the whole island stretches a range of mountains, and at the entrance to the harbour there is land station, Tupik Point, used by the natives. It was to the encampment that Fleming, the assistant engineer, made weekly expeditions with stores carried on dog sledges. The voyage home, with Captain Bannerman in charge, was interrupted by a stop at Longhope tor coal. Here M'Millan was outshipped, and had to proceed to Dundee by rail. An Orkney sheep was taken on board, and afforded some amusement to the crew on the way to the Tay. It is now tethered to the deck. and awaits purchase by the highest bidder. The vessel was brought home by Capt., James ‘Bannerman. who was acting as mate. Capt. Bannerman has had long experience in -the Arctic fishings.
Dundee People's Journal - Saturday 25 April 1914
Another Dundee Whaler to Sail.
Another Dundee whaler is preparing to make a voyage the Arctic regions in a few weeks’ time, and her destination wall be Hudson Bay. She will be in charge of Captain John Murray, whose brother, Mr Alexander Murray, captained the vessel on her trip last year, and who died during the voyage. Active is the sister ship of the Morning, which is preparing to sail for Cumberland Gulf-
Another Dundee Whaler to Sail.
Another Dundee whaler is preparing to make a voyage the Arctic regions in a few weeks’ time, and her destination wall be Hudson Bay. She will be in charge of Captain John Murray, whose brother, Mr Alexander Murray, captained the vessel on her trip last year, and who died during the voyage. Active is the sister ship of the Morning, which is preparing to sail for Cumberland Gulf-
Dundee Evening Telegraph - Wednesday 10 June 1914
THE WHALER ACTIVE LEAVING DUNDEE HARBOUR.
The whaler Active sailing to the whaling station. Big crowds watch her passage through Victoria Dock. Inset —Ladies waiting to throw red herring aboard.
Note: It was traditional to throw oranges and red herring onto the deck of a leaving vessel for luck.
Note: It was traditional to throw oranges and red herring onto the deck of a leaving vessel for luck.
Aberdeen Evening Express - Friday 30 October 1914
Former Peterhead Whaler's Arrival at Dundee.
The whaler Active, formerly of Peterhead commanded by Captain Murray, has arrived at Dundee after a voyage of five months in the Arctic. The Active confined her operations to Hudson Bay, but met with little success. No black whales were seen, and her catch consists of only two white whales, 15 bears, and two walrus. A good deal of rough weather was experienced.
Former Peterhead Whaler's Arrival at Dundee.
The whaler Active, formerly of Peterhead commanded by Captain Murray, has arrived at Dundee after a voyage of five months in the Arctic. The Active confined her operations to Hudson Bay, but met with little success. No black whales were seen, and her catch consists of only two white whales, 15 bears, and two walrus. A good deal of rough weather was experienced.
1915
Lloyds Register of Shipping 1915
The Loss
Newspaper Reports on Loss
Orkney Herald - Wednesday 5th January 1916
WRECK AND LOSS OF LIFE. -- During the past few days bodies of drowned seamen have been washed ashore at Deerness, Shapinsay, Rousay, and other parts of the east coast of Orkney. The men all wore life-belts. They have been identified as belonging to the Active of Dundee. formerly well known as a whaler, which is now believed to have been lost off the Orkneys. Other wreckage gives reason to fear that one or two other vessels have gone down near the Orkneys during the recent storm.
Dundee Courier - Thursday 06 January 1916
BODIES OF CREW OF DUNDEE WHALER ARE WASHED ASHORE ON COAST OF ORKNEYS. During the last few days bodies of several seamen have been washed ashore on different parts of the East Coast of the Orkneys. They have now been identified belonging to the Active, of Dundee, which it is feared has been lost.
The Orkney Herald. Saturday 8th January 1916.
Shipping disaster off The Orkneys.
Bodies washed ashore.
LOSS OF HUDSON BAY COMPANY’S STEAMER.
There seems little doubt that the s.s. Active (Captain Leask, master, believed to belong to Shetland), managed by the Hudson Bay Co, was lost off the Orkneys during the Christmas week gale.
In our last issue we reported that bodies had come ashore at Deerness, and at Shapinsay and a boat at Stronsay - three boats are now reported, two at Stronsay and one at Auskerry.
Since our last issue two bodies have been found at Rousay and one at Papa Stronsay. The first body to come ashore at Rousay was apparently that of an engineer officer. On his jacket were three narrow gold bands- and the badge on his cap (which was found in his overcoat pocket), consisted of the red ensign with the letters H.B.C. thereon in white. Locally it was not known what the house flag was, and in the case of the two bodies found previously there were no papers to assist in solving the mystery. It seemed certain, however, that the crew had had time to take to there boats, as on all three bodies there was an ample supply of tobacco, whilst in the pockets of the engineer officer were found such articles as a clock, a razor strop, and four handkerchiefs with the letter ‘B’ embroided on the corner. It was peculiar to, that in the case of the boats which came ashore, the stern portion was missing in each case, so there was nothing to indicate the vessel's name. The Engineer officer’s body was slightly decomposed, one of his ears had been bitten or torn off close to the head, and several bruises were observed which may indicate that he sustained injuries sufficiently severe to cause death.
On Saturday it was reported that a second body had been found on Rousay. From papers in the pockets it appears that the man was named Jamieson, belonging to the Levenwick district of Shetland. A letter from the man's sister showed that he was a hand on the s.s. Active, and it seems certain that the vessel was recently in a homeport, as the letter bears a date early in December. In Lloyd’s register of shipping there does not appear a steamer Active belonging to the Hudson Bay Company, but a notebook found on Jamieson’s body had a note of the company’s London telegraphic address, an as the result of enquiries which have been made, there seems no doubt that the vessel did belong to the Hudson Bay Company.
The Fifth Body, which came ashore at Papa Stronsay, is that of a seaman, who, it is apparent from the papers found on the body, belonged to Skye.
Dundee People's Journal - Saturday 8th January 1916
STIRRING STORY OF OLD DUNDEE WHALER. The the terrific storm which raged round the North of Scotland from 23d to 26th December Dundee's famous old whaler Active was lost with all hands. Reports from the far north describe the storm as of phenomenal violence, the waves smashing up to the tops of the highest cliffs. The stout old whaler, which for half a century had battled through the tempests in the Arctic and Australian seas, had made a hard struggle to weather the storm. A bottle washed ashore at Stronsay, Orkney, tells all that will ever be known of the efforts of the gallant crew. The message, signed by the boatswain of the Active, stated that the vessel was sinking north-east of Lerwick. Later five bodies were washed ashore at Stronsay. One of those proved to be that of William Jamieson, the mate’s identification being made from papers found on his body. Nine Dundee men were known to be aboard the Active, while tenth belonged to Montrose. Both the master and mate were northerners.
THE MEN LOST.
The names of the crew are follows;
Captain Wm. Leask, Sandsound, Shetland.
Wm. Jamieson, first mate, Maywick, Dunrossness, Shetland.
Robt. Nicoll, second mate, 20 Hilltown, Dundee.
Peter Brymer, chief engineer, Dundee.
J. Innes, second engineer, Dundee.
Wm. Beattie, boatswain, Montrose.
F. Morrell, carpenter, 21 Ann Street, Dundee. —.
Wilkie, cook, Ann Street, Dundee. —.
Bernard, steward, late of H.M. Prison, Dundee.
Robt. Henderson, donkeyman, Peep o’ Day Lane, Dundee.
Robt. Walker, fireman, c/o Macdonald, Park Avenue, Dundee.
J. Rose, Dens Brae, Dundee.
Captain Leask and William Jamieson, the first mate, stated, arc both natives of Shetland. Robert Niooll. the second mate was formerly a pilot on the Tay, and a well-known figure around Dundee Harbour. He is married. and is about 50 years of age. Chief Engineer Brymer, a Dundee man, highly respected in engineering circles. He had extensive knowledge of marine engineering. Brymer, however, for some time previous joining the Active had been at work on land. He leaves a wife and family. is about 55 years of age. A son of his is at present engaged as engineer on a P. and O. liner. Before joining the Active, Wilkie, the cook, had been employed as a cook in Caw’s Restaurant, 25 Panmure Street; while Bernard, the steward, was formerly a warder in Dundee Prison.
THE VESSEL’S STIRRING STORY The Active was the oldest of the Dundee whalers. Built Peterhead and registered in Dundee in 1873, she was admirably adapted for the manifold risks of whaling in the icy regions. Under Captain Alexander Fairweather she proved a lucky whaler. On his first whaling trip he brought home in the Active the bone and blubber 25 whales. In 1875 when steaming up Lancaster Sound the ship began to leak very badly, the water was getting a gland in the sternpost which the propeller shaft worked. The pumps could barely keep her afloat, and every moment it was feared she would founder. The skipper managed to work hex into Regents Inlet, where another Dundee whaler was lying. Then the ice began pack on the ships, and both were like to be nipped. The boats were provisioned and lowered, and everything was readiness for abandoning the ship. Fortunately, the wind changed, and between the two floes there was left a space of some 30 or 40 feet. The Active thus lay in ice-bound dock. While lying in this clear space the crew killed 13 whales, yielding about seven tons of bone, worth over £10,000. The leak was patched up, and when going down Lancaster Sound another whale was killed. In all the Active' secured 16 whales after seemingly being doomed, first by leakage and then by ice pressure. Captain Thomas Robertson afterwards 'assumed command the Active, and in 1893 went out with the Balena, Diana, and Polar Star on a whaling expedition to the Antarctic. Like his fellow-captains of the expedition, Captain Robertson, while devoting himself primarily to the commercial part of the expedition, availed himself of every opportunity for exploration. The Active was the first vessel to enter what is now known the “Firth of Tay” in the Antarctic, and the sound was called Arctic Sound.” One of the islands discovered was named Dundee Island, while a good number of headlands in that region bear the names of Dundee citizens.
STRUGGLE WITH A ’’FINNER’’. While the Active was in Erebus and Terror Gulf Captain Robertson saw, from the crow's nest of the vessel, whales which from their movements he believed to be similar to the Greenland species. Boats were lowered, and after various attempts one boat succeeded in harpooning a whale. Before another boat got up five lines were run out, and the whale was off with 400 fathoms of whale line. Chase was given, and two harpoons were lodged and then another two —five harpoons in all—but still the whale held on and defied all efforts made by the Active’s hunters with rockets to stop its wild career. After being fast for 14 hours, the whale got away with a couple of harpoons. While the chase was going the Diana put in appearance, but not being impressed with Antarctic whale fishing cleared off, and the report spread through the crews of the expedition that ‘’the Active had tackled a finner whale, which had gone off after all the John Jock’s smithy had been fired into it” (meaning harpoons, rockets and all). Captain Robertson landed on an island off Graham’s Land and is credited with being the first man to set foot on the Antarctic Continent. The name of the Active has been a familiar household word in Dundee: crowds of men, women, and children have been interested in her voyages to the sealing and whaling waters, and there is general regret over the loss of the famous old whaler and the brave men who went down with her Christmas Day.
Buchan Observer and East Aberdeenshire Advertiser - Tuesday 11 January 1916
The old whaler Active has long disappeared from the shipping list at Peterhead, but the wreck of the Dundee whaler of the same name off the Orkney coast last week recalls memories of our own stout old Active, which forty years ago and over made her annual voyage Polewards in search of the seal and whale. It is stated that the Active just lost engaged in the whaling when it was carried on from Dundee for the Greenland whale, and as that time coincides with the disappearance of the Active from Peterhead, one is inclined to wonder whether the old craft did not then find a home harbour at Dundee for her future. Stoutly built, with timbers some three feet thick was this Dundee Active and that description would exactly suit the old Peterhead Active commanded by Captain Robert Martin, an old sea-dog who was at the time when at home a prominent pillar of the Wesleyan Methodist Church which a fortnight ago celebrated the hundredth anniversary of its status as a church.
The Orkney Herald. Wednesday January 12th 1916.
WHALER ACTIVE LOST.
GOES DOWN WITH ALL HANDS.
SHETLAND AND DUNDEE MEN DROWNED.
Last week we briefly recorded that from the bodies of seamen and wreckage that had come ashore at various points on the east coast of the Orkneys there was reason to believe that the old steam whaler Active, of Dundee, now belonging to the Hudson Bay Company has gone down off the Orkneys in the recent storms. The bodies came ashore at Deerness, Shapinsay, Rousay and Stronsay. One of the bodies was identified from a letter in the pocket as that of the chief officer, James Scott Jameson. A few days earlier a message signed by Jameson had been picked up in which he said the ship was in a sinking condition and took fair well of his friends. The message ended abruptly with a reference to one of the crew named Henderson. The Active left Dundee on the 21st of December, and it is supposed she foundered on Christmas Eve or Christmas day.
Captain William Leask.
Was born at Sandsound, Shetland, 37 years ago. Going to sea at a comparatively early age, he speedily reached the top of his profession, securing a masters certificate while he was yet a young man. As a seaman, he was admired by his shipmates, and as an officer and commander he was esteemed by his crew, and a general favourite with all who knew him. Five years ago he married Janet, Daughter of Mr Arthur Manson, Bigton, who has the profound sympathy of a wide circle of friends in great sorrow at the loss of a sincere and loving husband. There are no family in the marriage.
Chief officer James Scott Jameson.
There were few men better known, certainly non better liked, in the district of Maywick, Dunrossness, than James Scott Jameson. He started his career as a fisherman and was latterly a hand on the well-known fishing boat Chrysolite. He applied himself to the study of navigation, and after passing all examinations in connection with fishing boats, he sat for and obtained a certificate as chief officer in the mercantile marine. On the fishing being abandoned, he went south joining the Active, and had been sailing on her for some time. He was 37 years of age and unmarried. Much sympathy is felt for his parents and relations, who mourn in him an affectionate son and loving brother.
AN OLD DUNDEE WHALER.
THE ADVENTUROUS CAREER OF THE ACTIVE.
The wreck of the Dundee whaler Active off the Orkney coast, unfortunately with the loss of her crew, closes a remarkable story of adventure on the sea. Her chequered history is bound up not only with the hardships and experiences of the whaling industry, but with the excitement and romance of exploration. Stoutly built, with timber some three feet thick, she weathered many a gale and rode many a stormy sea though her last voyage of all has been tragically ended in a great snow blizzard in the north. She was engaged in the whaling when it was carried on from Dundee for the Greenland whale, and the number of these which she captured in her time must have been enormous. There have been sailors who grew from Boyhood to manhood in service with her. Indeed, it is said of one whaler who accompanied her on many perilous journeys that so regularly did he work on the boat summer after summer that he never saw the barley ripen. With the development of the modern whaling for the larger and more powerful Finner whales, which are captured by small fast steamers, using large and heavy harpoons fired from a gun, her particular calling came to an end and she and other of her kind were laid up in dock at Dundee were their picturesque ness could hardly fail to appeal to the eye. Many medical men belonging to the Edinburgh school had their earliest experiences on board the Active She made innumerable voyages to the Far North and survived exciting ordeals among the ice-floes. She was one of the four vessels which went with the Scottish expedition to the Antarctic In 1892 with Captain Robertson, who was for long associated with her, in command.
It may be recalled that Dr W. S. Bruce was surgeon on the Balaena, one of the vessels engaged, and Dr C. W. Donald, son of the late Mr James Donald, Agent of the National Bank, Kirkwall, was on the Active. On that occasion she encountered very heavy weather and lost a good deal of her gear as well as boats and suffered other damage. Capt. Robertson, who landed on an island off Graham's land, has been credited with being the first to set foot on the Antarctic continent.
The Active was almost wrecked on one occasion through colliding with an iceberg, and it was a narrow escape she had in getting away in time. An attempt on another occasion to capture a Finner whale with her inadequate apparatus almost brought her disaster. The big whale, probably over one hundred feet in length when the light harpoon found it took out the entire line of one boat, also that of a second boat and the lines of a third boat, The lines were then controlled from the Active, which was taken in tow by the whale into ice and on to rocks, until the monster was severely dealt with by bombs, Fortunately the whaler was extricated from her dangerous position in time. Such incidents were commonplace for the men who sailed her, her experiences were legion, and her loss removes the oldest of the whalers of Dundee, and certainly one of the most interesting of these craft.
Orkney Herald, and Weekly Advertiser and Gazette for the Orkney & Zetland Islands - Wednesday 03 May 1916
A FAMOUS ANTARCTIC SHIP—THE LOSS OF THE WHALER ACTIVE.—The loss of the Dundee auxiliary whaler Active on a voyage from Leith to Archangel marks the end of the career of a ship that has played an important part in Antarctic exploration, for she was one of the four Dundee whalers that visited the Antarctic regions, viz., the Weddell Sea in 1892-93, to which three naturalists —Dr W. S. Bruce, Dr C. W. Donald, and Dr Campbell—were appointed to carry out scientific observations. Besides these, the well-known artist, Mr W. G. Burn Murdoch, accompanied Dr Bruce on the Balena. The Active, on which Dr Donald sailed, added to our knowledge by the discovery that Joinville Island was divided into two ; the southernmost island was named Dundee Island, where Dr Donald landed. The master of the ship was Captain Robertson, who was afterwards chosen by Dr W. S. Bruce for the Scottish National Antarctic Expedition of 1902-04. The Active was the oldest of the Scottish whalers, being built by Robertson, of Peterhead, in 1852. During her long career, besides her Antarctic voyage, she made over 60 voyages to the Arctic regions.
A FAMOUS ANTARCTIC SHIP—THE LOSS OF THE WHALER ACTIVE.—The loss of the Dundee auxiliary whaler Active on a voyage from Leith to Archangel marks the end of the career of a ship that has played an important part in Antarctic exploration, for she was one of the four Dundee whalers that visited the Antarctic regions, viz., the Weddell Sea in 1892-93, to which three naturalists —Dr W. S. Bruce, Dr C. W. Donald, and Dr Campbell—were appointed to carry out scientific observations. Besides these, the well-known artist, Mr W. G. Burn Murdoch, accompanied Dr Bruce on the Balena. The Active, on which Dr Donald sailed, added to our knowledge by the discovery that Joinville Island was divided into two ; the southernmost island was named Dundee Island, where Dr Donald landed. The master of the ship was Captain Robertson, who was afterwards chosen by Dr W. S. Bruce for the Scottish National Antarctic Expedition of 1902-04. The Active was the oldest of the Scottish whalers, being built by Robertson, of Peterhead, in 1852. During her long career, besides her Antarctic voyage, she made over 60 voyages to the Arctic regions.
Lloyds of London
Lloyds List Entries
As to the whaler Active, a vessel of this name left Leith on 9 December 1915 for Archangel. The next reports were of her loss:-
“Kirkwall, Dec. 31. – Three bodies, evidently seamen, washed ashore this locality; one body apparently engineer, three gold bands on jacket and cap with badge of red ensign with letters “H.B.C.,” also parts of three ship’s lifeboats. No identification marks.”
(Lloyd’s list January 3 1916 column 17)
“ACTIVE. – Kirkwall, Jan. 3. – Further two bodies washed ashore in this locality, one having correspondence addressed to “Jamieson, s.s. Active, c/o Hudson Bay Coy.””
(Lloyd’s list January 4 1916 column 18)
“ACTIVE. - Dundee, Jan. 4. – A bottle has been washed ashore on Stronsay containing an undated message signed by the boatswain of the whaler Active saying that the vessel was sinking north-east of Lerwick.”
(Lloyd’s list January 6 1916 column 16)
“ACTIVE. – London, Feb. 4. – The whaler Active, of Dundee, Leith for Archangel, with cargo, is supposed to have foundered in the vicinity of the Orkney and Shetland Islands. Five bodies were washed ashore and have been identified as members of the crew. A bottle came ashore near Lerwick containing a message signed Jamieson, boatswain, and stating that there was four feet water in the cabin.”
(Lloyd’s weekly index February 10 1916 page 1)
“ACTIVE. – London, April 27. – The auxiliary whaler Active, of Dundee, official number 19,557, master Leask, which left Leith on Dec. 13 1915, for Archangel, with a cargo of general goods, and was in communication with H.M.S. Duke of Albany on Dec. 24, 1915, was yesterday posted at Lloyd’s as a missing vessel.”
(Lloyd’s list April 28 1916 column 17)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
As to the whaler Active, a vessel of this name left Leith on 9 December 1915 for Archangel. The next reports were of her loss:-
“Kirkwall, Dec. 31. – Three bodies, evidently seamen, washed ashore this locality; one body apparently engineer, three gold bands on jacket and cap with badge of red ensign with letters “H.B.C.,” also parts of three ship’s lifeboats. No identification marks.”
(Lloyd’s list January 3 1916 column 17)
“ACTIVE. – Kirkwall, Jan. 3. – Further two bodies washed ashore in this locality, one having correspondence addressed to “Jamieson, s.s. Active, c/o Hudson Bay Coy.””
(Lloyd’s list January 4 1916 column 18)
“ACTIVE. - Dundee, Jan. 4. – A bottle has been washed ashore on Stronsay containing an undated message signed by the boatswain of the whaler Active saying that the vessel was sinking north-east of Lerwick.”
(Lloyd’s list January 6 1916 column 16)
“ACTIVE. – London, Feb. 4. – The whaler Active, of Dundee, Leith for Archangel, with cargo, is supposed to have foundered in the vicinity of the Orkney and Shetland Islands. Five bodies were washed ashore and have been identified as members of the crew. A bottle came ashore near Lerwick containing a message signed Jamieson, boatswain, and stating that there was four feet water in the cabin.”
(Lloyd’s weekly index February 10 1916 page 1)
“ACTIVE. – London, April 27. – The auxiliary whaler Active, of Dundee, official number 19,557, master Leask, which left Leith on Dec. 13 1915, for Archangel, with a cargo of general goods, and was in communication with H.M.S. Duke of Albany on Dec. 24, 1915, was yesterday posted at Lloyd’s as a missing vessel.”
(Lloyd’s list April 28 1916 column 17)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Lloyd's List - Friday 28 April 1916
Casualty Returns 1916
Dundee Courier - Thursday 27 April 1916
DUNDEE WHALER POSTED AS MISSING. The following- vessel was yesterday posted Lloyd's as missing:— The Active, auxiliary whaler, of Dundee (Leask, master), which sailed from Leith for Archangel on 13th December last with cargo of general goods, was in communication with H.M.S. Duke of Albany on 24th December last, and has not since been heard of. Wreckage of the Active was cast on the northern coast of Scotland just before the New Year.
Dundee Evening Telegraph - Wednesday 19 April 1916
DUNDEE WHALER ACTIVE
Is Considered Very Much Overdue.
Lloyds states that the following vessel, not having been heard of since the date specified, is considered very much overdue:- The Active, auxilary whaler of Dundee (Leask, master) who is. reported to have sailed from Leith for Archangel on 13th December last.
DUNDEE WHALER POSTED AS MISSING. The following- vessel was yesterday posted Lloyd's as missing:— The Active, auxiliary whaler, of Dundee (Leask, master), which sailed from Leith for Archangel on 13th December last with cargo of general goods, was in communication with H.M.S. Duke of Albany on 24th December last, and has not since been heard of. Wreckage of the Active was cast on the northern coast of Scotland just before the New Year.
Dundee Evening Telegraph - Wednesday 19 April 1916
DUNDEE WHALER ACTIVE
Is Considered Very Much Overdue.
Lloyds states that the following vessel, not having been heard of since the date specified, is considered very much overdue:- The Active, auxilary whaler of Dundee (Leask, master) who is. reported to have sailed from Leith for Archangel on 13th December last.
Note: Two bodies that washed ashore in Westray and were buried as coming off the S.S. Birka, lost on 10th January 1916, may be crew from the S.S. Active. A newspaper report stated.
Orkney Herald. Wednesday 19 January 1916.
''Two bodies have also come ashore at Rapness, both wearing lifebelts. They are supposed to belong to another vessel than the Birka which has been lost near Westray''.
H.M.S. Duke of Albany
A message in a bottle was found on a beach on Stronsay. The letter had been written by James Scott Jamieson, the first mate of the Active. one line stated : ''A navy boat passed us and we told him we were sinking.''
Four months later Lloyds official listed the Active as missing. One line in the Lloyds List Entries read : -
ACTIVE. – London, April 27
''was in communication with H.M.S. Duke of Albany on Dec. 24, 1915,''
On April 26th 2025 a visit was made to the National Archive in Kew. File ADM 53/40341 log book HMS Duke of Albany, December 1915 was requested.
Four months later Lloyds official listed the Active as missing. One line in the Lloyds List Entries read : -
ACTIVE. – London, April 27
''was in communication with H.M.S. Duke of Albany on Dec. 24, 1915,''
On April 26th 2025 a visit was made to the National Archive in Kew. File ADM 53/40341 log book HMS Duke of Albany, December 1915 was requested.
H.M.S. Duke of Albany , Friday 24th December, 1915. On patrol.
0.10 a.m a/c N 16 W
4 a.m. a/c N 78 W strong gale, heavy snow squalls, high sea, vessel labouring
5 a.m. Observed white Lt Ho (Start Pt ?) bearing North 1/2 ml a/c SSE in turning ship took heavy sea aft
doing slight damage to woodwork
7 a.m. a/c SE by S
Strong gale mountainous sea, heavy snow, blizzards, heavily o'cast
11 a.m. Strong gale and mountainous sea, heavy snow squalls, vessel labouring and shipping water.
4 p.m. Strong gale and mountainous sea, fierce squalls, vessel labouring and shipping water.
5 p.m. Obs signal of distress a/c W'ly. 5.15 p.m. Sch ''Active'' signalled us to stand by her.
6.30 p.m. Lost ''Active '' in heavy snow squall, hove to SE by S.
Strong gale, very high seas, o'cast v heavy snow squalls, weather moderating at times.
8 p.m. Obs blue flare a/c N W using searchlight to pick up schooner without success.
8 30 p.m. Above vessel to sea again 6 deg S E by S.
Strong gale, high seas, dull, o;cast , v heavy snow squalls, vessel labouring and shipping water.
0.10 a.m a/c N 16 W
4 a.m. a/c N 78 W strong gale, heavy snow squalls, high sea, vessel labouring
5 a.m. Observed white Lt Ho (Start Pt ?) bearing North 1/2 ml a/c SSE in turning ship took heavy sea aft
doing slight damage to woodwork
7 a.m. a/c SE by S
Strong gale mountainous sea, heavy snow, blizzards, heavily o'cast
11 a.m. Strong gale and mountainous sea, heavy snow squalls, vessel labouring and shipping water.
4 p.m. Strong gale and mountainous sea, fierce squalls, vessel labouring and shipping water.
5 p.m. Obs signal of distress a/c W'ly. 5.15 p.m. Sch ''Active'' signalled us to stand by her.
6.30 p.m. Lost ''Active '' in heavy snow squall, hove to SE by S.
Strong gale, very high seas, o'cast v heavy snow squalls, weather moderating at times.
8 p.m. Obs blue flare a/c N W using searchlight to pick up schooner without success.
8 30 p.m. Above vessel to sea again 6 deg S E by S.
Strong gale, high seas, dull, o;cast , v heavy snow squalls, vessel labouring and shipping water.
The National Archive Photo: LiWD
The Wreck
UKHO have no wreck card for the SS Active.
Search for S.S. Active
Crew Lost
Name - William Leask.(37)
DOB - 16th Aug 1878
Place of Birth - Shetland
Parents - Son of James Leask & Barbara Eunson
Early History - Lived at Sandsound, Shetland.
Rank - Captain.
Service History - Previous ship. Barton.
Photo: Shetland's Roll of Honour.
DOB - 16th Aug 1878
Place of Birth - Shetland
Parents - Son of James Leask & Barbara Eunson
Early History - Lived at Sandsound, Shetland.
Rank - Captain.
Service History - Previous ship. Barton.
Photo: Shetland's Roll of Honour.
Shetland News - Thursday 06 January 1916
LOSS OF THE WHALER ACTIVE.. SHETLAND CAPTAIN AND SECOND MATE PERISH. SHETLANDER'S BODY WASHED ASHORE AT ORKNEY.
Lerwick Monday night,
It is feared that well-known Dundee whaler Active has in the North Sea during the terrible gales of week. The first news to indicate that a catastrophe had occurred was the discovery of a bottle at Orkney, which contained a message the terms of which ‘were that the Active was in a sinking condition, that the crew were up to the waist in water, and that there was little hope of saving the ship. It was also stated that a large vessel was seen passing, but she evidently did not see the Active. The message was signed by the second mate, James S. Jamieson who is the son of William Jamieson, Langhill, Bigton. Later telegrams from the owners of the ship and from Orkney state that five bodies washed ashore at Orkney, one of which has been identified by letters found on him as that of the second mate Jamieson. So far no further news of the Active or the of her crew, said to number 20 or 30, ‘been received, and it is feared that they have perished. The master of Active was Captain William Leask, son of Mr James Leask, Sandsound.
He was sent as mate of the ship but two days later -was made master. Capt, Leask married about five years ago and his wife is presently staying in Lerwick. The remainder of the crew are understood to have belonged to Dundee.
The Active was one of the best known of the Dundee whalers, in past years frequently called along Lerwick for the Shetland portion of her crew before heading north.
Later.
The body of Capt. Leask has not yet been recovered. |n the second mate’s message, referred to above, it was also stated that there was a man named Robert Henderson on the vessel, and that he had a family. This man| was at first supposed to be a Shetlander, but information indicates that he was born in Montrose and resided in Dundee. The second mate Jamieson was the same age as the Captain, viz., 37 years.
LOSS OF THE WHALER ACTIVE.. SHETLAND CAPTAIN AND SECOND MATE PERISH. SHETLANDER'S BODY WASHED ASHORE AT ORKNEY.
Lerwick Monday night,
It is feared that well-known Dundee whaler Active has in the North Sea during the terrible gales of week. The first news to indicate that a catastrophe had occurred was the discovery of a bottle at Orkney, which contained a message the terms of which ‘were that the Active was in a sinking condition, that the crew were up to the waist in water, and that there was little hope of saving the ship. It was also stated that a large vessel was seen passing, but she evidently did not see the Active. The message was signed by the second mate, James S. Jamieson who is the son of William Jamieson, Langhill, Bigton. Later telegrams from the owners of the ship and from Orkney state that five bodies washed ashore at Orkney, one of which has been identified by letters found on him as that of the second mate Jamieson. So far no further news of the Active or the of her crew, said to number 20 or 30, ‘been received, and it is feared that they have perished. The master of Active was Captain William Leask, son of Mr James Leask, Sandsound.
He was sent as mate of the ship but two days later -was made master. Capt, Leask married about five years ago and his wife is presently staying in Lerwick. The remainder of the crew are understood to have belonged to Dundee.
The Active was one of the best known of the Dundee whalers, in past years frequently called along Lerwick for the Shetland portion of her crew before heading north.
Later.
The body of Capt. Leask has not yet been recovered. |n the second mate’s message, referred to above, it was also stated that there was a man named Robert Henderson on the vessel, and that he had a family. This man| was at first supposed to be a Shetlander, but information indicates that he was born in Montrose and resided in Dundee. The second mate Jamieson was the same age as the Captain, viz., 37 years.
Shetland Times - Saturday 08 January 1916
CAPTAIN WILLIAM LEASK. By the sad and untimely death of Captain William Leask, Shetland has lost one of her most promising sailor sons. He was born at Sandsound 37 years ago. Going to sea at a comparatively early age, he speedily reached the top of his profession, securing a master’s certificate, while he was yet a young man. As & seaman, he was admired by his shipmates, and as an officer and commander he was esteemed by his crew, and a general favourite with all who knew him. Five years ago he married Janet, daughter of Mr Arthur Manson, Bigton, who has the profound sympathy of a wide circle of friends in her great sorrow at the loss of a sincere and loving husband. There are no family of the marriage.
Shetland Times - Saturday 04 March 1916
RETURN THANKS.
LEASK. - James Leask and Family desire to thank their many friends and neighbours for kind sympathy in the death of his son, Captain William Leask, who lost his life by the foundering of s.s. “ Active,” of Dundee, near the Orkneys. in December, 1915,
Sandsound, 1st March, 1916,
CAPTAIN WILLIAM LEASK. By the sad and untimely death of Captain William Leask, Shetland has lost one of her most promising sailor sons. He was born at Sandsound 37 years ago. Going to sea at a comparatively early age, he speedily reached the top of his profession, securing a master’s certificate, while he was yet a young man. As & seaman, he was admired by his shipmates, and as an officer and commander he was esteemed by his crew, and a general favourite with all who knew him. Five years ago he married Janet, daughter of Mr Arthur Manson, Bigton, who has the profound sympathy of a wide circle of friends in her great sorrow at the loss of a sincere and loving husband. There are no family of the marriage.
Shetland Times - Saturday 04 March 1916
RETURN THANKS.
LEASK. - James Leask and Family desire to thank their many friends and neighbours for kind sympathy in the death of his son, Captain William Leask, who lost his life by the foundering of s.s. “ Active,” of Dundee, near the Orkneys. in December, 1915,
Sandsound, 1st March, 1916,
Scotland, National Probate Index 1876-1936 (1916)
William Leask signature/
Sources:
UK, Registers and Indexes of Births, Marriages and Deaths of Passengers and Seamen at Sea, 1891-1922
www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk
BT 100/294/2 Ship: Active. Official Number: 19557.
Shetland Roll of Honour
UK, Registers and Indexes of Births, Marriages and Deaths of Passengers and Seamen at Sea, 1891-1922
www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk
BT 100/294/2 Ship: Active. Official Number: 19557.
Shetland Roll of Honour
Name - James Scott Jamieson. (37)
DOB - 25th April 1878
Place of Birth - Shetland
Parents - Son of Andrew Jamieson & Coventry Jamieson
Early History - Lived at Longhill, Levenwick, Shetland.
Rank - First Mate.
Service History - Previous ship. Clinpolite (fishing).
DOB - 25th April 1878
Place of Birth - Shetland
Parents - Son of Andrew Jamieson & Coventry Jamieson
Early History - Lived at Longhill, Levenwick, Shetland.
Rank - First Mate.
Service History - Previous ship. Clinpolite (fishing).
The Scotsman - Tuesday 04 January 1916
Body Washed Ashore on Rousay. A fourth body has come ashore in the Orkneys at the island of Rousay . It is that of a seaman named Jamieson , belonging to the Levenwick district of Shetland . It is apparent from papers found on the body that the vessel to which the man belonged was the Active, of the Hudson Bay Company
Body Washed Ashore on Rousay. A fourth body has come ashore in the Orkneys at the island of Rousay . It is that of a seaman named Jamieson , belonging to the Levenwick district of Shetland . It is apparent from papers found on the body that the vessel to which the man belonged was the Active, of the Hudson Bay Company
Shetland Times - Saturday 08 January 1916
CHIEF OFFICER JAMES SCOTT JAMIESON There were few young men better known, certainly none better liked in the district of Maywick, Dunrossness, than James Scott Jamieson. He started his career as a fisherman, and was latterly -a hand on the well-known fishing boat Chrysolite, He applied himself to the study of navigation, and after passing all the examinations in connection with fishing boats, he sat for, and obtained, a certificate as chief officer in the mercantile marine. On the fishing being abandoned, he went south, joining the Active, and had been sailing on her for some time. He was 37 years of age and unmarried. Much sympathy is felt for his parents and relations, who mourn in him an affectionate son and a loving brother.
Dundee People's Journal - Saturday 08 January 1916
Superintendent of the Police at Kirkwall, who wired to Lerwick that five bodies had come ashore at Stronsay. One of these proved to be that of the mate, his identification being discovered from papers found on his body.
Shetland Times - Saturday 15 January 1916
DEATHS.
JAMIESON. At sea, during the storm of the 24th-26th December, James Scott Jamieson, beloved eon of Andrew and Coventry Jamieson, Longhill, Sandwick.
CHIEF OFFICER JAMES SCOTT JAMIESON There were few young men better known, certainly none better liked in the district of Maywick, Dunrossness, than James Scott Jamieson. He started his career as a fisherman, and was latterly -a hand on the well-known fishing boat Chrysolite, He applied himself to the study of navigation, and after passing all the examinations in connection with fishing boats, he sat for, and obtained, a certificate as chief officer in the mercantile marine. On the fishing being abandoned, he went south, joining the Active, and had been sailing on her for some time. He was 37 years of age and unmarried. Much sympathy is felt for his parents and relations, who mourn in him an affectionate son and a loving brother.
Dundee People's Journal - Saturday 08 January 1916
Superintendent of the Police at Kirkwall, who wired to Lerwick that five bodies had come ashore at Stronsay. One of these proved to be that of the mate, his identification being discovered from papers found on his body.
Shetland Times - Saturday 15 January 1916
DEATHS.
JAMIESON. At sea, during the storm of the 24th-26th December, James Scott Jamieson, beloved eon of Andrew and Coventry Jamieson, Longhill, Sandwick.
Shetland Times - Saturday 22 January 1916
RETURN THANKS. JAMIESON. -Mr and Mrs Andrew Jamieson and family desire to return sincere thanks to all friends for kind expressions of sympathy received in their recent sad bereavement. Longhill and Post Office, Levenwick.
RETURN THANKS. JAMIESON. -Mr and Mrs Andrew Jamieson and family desire to return sincere thanks to all friends for kind expressions of sympathy received in their recent sad bereavement. Longhill and Post Office, Levenwick.
|
|
Grave of James Jamieson, Glebe Kirkyard, Rousay. Photos: Neil Macleod
Text on Headstone
Message in a bottle.
An undated message found in a bottle, as reported in newspapers, was found on Stronsay. A transcript of the message below....
“Dear Family, this will be my last letter to you. We are sinking to the North and East of Lerwick. God bless you all as he has given me strength to die, my soul is resting on the finished work of Jesus. A navy boat passed us and we told him we were sinking. I have been under the boat all night trying to get the water out . (illegible) filled . (illegible). The water is at my knees on the cabin floor. Don’t mourn for me, meet me in heaven, Mother, Father, Agnes, Andrew, Ann, Margaret, Coventry. Again God bless you all. I leave everything among you. Ta ta. James S. Jamieson.”
“Dear Family, this will be my last letter to you. We are sinking to the North and East of Lerwick. God bless you all as he has given me strength to die, my soul is resting on the finished work of Jesus. A navy boat passed us and we told him we were sinking. I have been under the boat all night trying to get the water out . (illegible) filled . (illegible). The water is at my knees on the cabin floor. Don’t mourn for me, meet me in heaven, Mother, Father, Agnes, Andrew, Ann, Margaret, Coventry. Again God bless you all. I leave everything among you. Ta ta. James S. Jamieson.”
Shetland's Roll of Honour
Note: The body of William Jamieson washed ashore on Rousay. (Statutory registers of death) Buried in Chapel Kirkyard, Sourin, Rousay. (HB Co Archive)
Shetland Times - Wednesday 31 December 1986
A tragedy remembered
Apart from those who took first and second places in the Christmas competition a shop window which has attracted a lot of attention is that of Mr G. H. Johnson, featuring a nautical theme with fishing nets, etc., and in the centre the model of a fishing boat of the type used for cod fishing at the end of the last century. The model was made about 80 years ago by James Scott Jamieson of Longhill, Bigton, who was mate of the Dundee vessel, Active, lost with all hands about Christmas time in 1915. After having been laid up for several years the Active, a former whaler, had been put into service to help the war effort and she was bound for the White Sea, when she ran into a storm off Orkney. Before the Active went down Mr Jamieson wrote a letter to his parents. He placed it in a bottle which was washed up on a beach in Orkney and the message was sent to his parents. As a result their first intimation of their son’s death was the letter written by himself. The model boat was made for James Andrew Johnson who later became skipper of the fishing boat Reaper. He gave it to his nephew, George Johnson, who recently loaned it to Scalloway Museum. Before it went on display it was refurbished by George's brother in-law, Mr James Sinclair, skipper of the Milky Way. Its sails were made by Mr Robert Laurenson of Brake, Bigton.
Sources:
UK, Registers and Indexes of Births, Marriages and Deaths of Passengers and Seamen at Sea, 1891-1922
Statutory Register of Deaths
www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk
BT 100/294/2 Ship: Active. Official Number: 19557.
Shetland's Roll of Honour
Hudson Bay Archives
UK, Registers and Indexes of Births, Marriages and Deaths of Passengers and Seamen at Sea, 1891-1922
Statutory Register of Deaths
www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk
BT 100/294/2 Ship: Active. Official Number: 19557.
Shetland's Roll of Honour
Hudson Bay Archives
Name - Robert Nicoll. (68)
DOB - 1848
Place of Birth - Dundee
Parents - Son of James Nicoll & Barbara Lorimer
Early History - Lived at 20 Hiltown, Dundee.
Rank - 2nd Mate.
Service History - Previous ship. Dolcoath
DOB - 1848
Place of Birth - Dundee
Parents - Son of James Nicoll & Barbara Lorimer
Early History - Lived at 20 Hiltown, Dundee.
Rank - 2nd Mate.
Service History - Previous ship. Dolcoath
Dundee People's Journal - Saturday 08 January 1916
Robert Nicoll. the second mate, was formerly a pilot on the Tay, and well-known figure around Dundee Harbour. He is married. and is about 50 years of age.
Dundee People's Journal - Saturday 22 January 1916
NICOLL, Drowned off the ss, Active. between 23d-26th December. Robert Nicoll, chief mate, beloved husband of Agnes Russell , 20 Hilltown, Dundee.
Sleep thy last sleep,
Free from care and sorrow;
Rest where none weep,
Till the eternal morrow;
Though dark waves roll
O'er the silent river,
Thy fainting soul
Jesus can deliver.
inserted his widow and family.
Dundee People's Journal - Saturday 30 December 1916
NICOLL - In memory of my dear father Robert Nicoll, drowned off the s.s. Active between 25th and 28th December 1915. Still to memory dear. — lnserted his daughter, Mrs G. Hastie, 110 Victoria Road.
Sources:
UK, Registers and Indexes of Births, Marriages and Deaths of Passengers and Seamen at Sea, 1891-1922
www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk
BT 100/294/2 Ship: Active. Official Number: 19557.
UK, Registers and Indexes of Births, Marriages and Deaths of Passengers and Seamen at Sea, 1891-1922
www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk
BT 100/294/2 Ship: Active. Official Number: 19557.
Name - Peter Begg Brymer. (60)
DOB - 1853
Place of Birth - Dundee
Parents - Son of James Brymer & Annie Gray
Early History - Lived at 155 Strathmartine Road, Dundee.
Rank - Chief Engineer
Service History - Previous ship. Dundonian.
DOB - 1853
Place of Birth - Dundee
Parents - Son of James Brymer & Annie Gray
Early History - Lived at 155 Strathmartine Road, Dundee.
Rank - Chief Engineer
Service History - Previous ship. Dundonian.
Montrose Review - Friday 07 January 1916
Chief Engineer Brymer is a Dundee man, highly respected in engineering circles. He had an extensive knowledge of marine engineering. Mr Brymer, however, for some time previous to joining the Active had been at work on land. He leaves a wife and family. He is about 55 years of age. A son of his is at present engaged as an engineer on a P. and 0. liner.
Dundee People's Journal - Saturday 15 January 1916
BRYMER.—Drowned at sea, 26th Dec. 1915, Peter Brymer, chief engineer s.s. Active, dearly beloved husband Georgina Morrison, 155 Strathmartine Road.
|
|
Grave of Chief Engineer Peter Breymer . Glebe Kirkyard, Rousay. Photo: Neil Macleod
Text on Headstone
Note: The obelisk on top of Peter's headstone was found on the ground next to the grave. It was placed back on the headstone for the photo then removed again.
Note: The body of Peter Breymer washed ashore on Rousay. (Statutory registers of death) Buried in Chapel Kirkyard, Sourin, Rousay. (HB Co Archive )
Note: The body of Peter Breymer washed ashore on Rousay. (Statutory registers of death) Buried in Chapel Kirkyard, Sourin, Rousay. (HB Co Archive )
Sources:
UK, Registers and Indexes of Births, Marriages and Deaths of Passengers and Seamen at Sea, 1891-1922
Statutory Register of Death
www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk
BT 100/294/2 Ship: Active. Official Number: 19557.
Hudson Bay Archives
UK, Registers and Indexes of Births, Marriages and Deaths of Passengers and Seamen at Sea, 1891-1922
Statutory Register of Death
www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk
BT 100/294/2 Ship: Active. Official Number: 19557.
Hudson Bay Archives
Name - John Innes (53)
DOB - 1863
Place of Birth - York
Parents -
Early History - Lived at 43 Constitution Road, Dundee.
Rank - 2nd Engineer.
Service History -
DOB - 1863
Place of Birth - York
Parents -
Early History - Lived at 43 Constitution Road, Dundee.
Rank - 2nd Engineer.
Service History -
Dundee People's Journal - Saturday 30 December 1916
INNES.-- In loving memory of John Innes, engineer s.s. Active, beloved husband of Helen Innes, Lochee Road, Dundee, drowned on or about 25 December 1915, off the Orkney Islands.
'Mid storm and stress of weather,
Tossed by its fiercest gale,
Your barque has reached its tether,
Thy fate we sadly bewail.
Yet hearts at home still love you,
And fresh your memory keep;
While oceans rolls above you,
Our thoughts of you ne'er sleep.
INNES.-- In loving memory of my dear father, John Innes, who was lost off the s.s. Active on or about 25th December 1915.
No one who knew him need ever be told,
A warmer heart death never made cold;
For cheery ways, smiling and free,
His grave's the bottom of the deep blue sea.
--Inserted by his son, John Innes.
Dundee People's Journal - Saturday 30 December 1917
INNES -- In loving memory of my dear father, John Innes, who was drowned off the s.s. Active on or about 26th Dec. 1916 -- sadly missed -- Inserted by Mr and Mrs John Innes.
INNES -- In loving memory of John Innes, second engineer, drowned off s.s. Active on or about 25th December 1915, near Orkney Islands, beloved husband of Ellen Innes, 59 Lochee Rd., Dundee
Dundee People's Journal - Saturday 28 December 1918
INNES,—In loving memory of John Innes, engineer, drowned on or about 25th December 1915, near the Orkney Islands.—inserted by Mrs. Innes and family, 59 Lochee Rd.
Dundee People's Journal - Saturday 27 December 1919
INNESS.—In loving memory of John Inness, engineer, s.s. Active, beloved husband Helen Inness, 59 Lochee Rd., Dundee, drowned on or about 25th Dec. 1915, off Orkney Islands.
Dundee Courier - Friday 08 September 1939
DUNDEE MAN NOT YET TRACED
Escaped Voyage on Ill-Fated Whaler in 1915
A Dundee man on his way back Canada. Mr George Elder Innes, one the Athenia passengers not yet accounted for. His sister, Mrs William Stewart, 58 Glenmarkie Terrace, is hopeful that he may be one those aboard the American liner City of Flint or the Swedish yacht Southern Cross, which have not yet reported the names of the survivors they carry. Mr Innes is the youngest son of Mr John Innes, who was second engineer of the Dundee whaler Active when she went down with all hands off the Orkneys on Christmas Eve 1915. The exact cause of the disaster was never ascertained, although a bottle containing a message that the ship was sinking fast was washed up on the Norwegian coast a few days later. But for the action of the owners' supervisor, who said he was too young, Mr G. E. Innes would also have been aboard the Active.
NOTE: George Innes was lost with S.S. Athenia.
Sources:
UK, Registers and Indexes of Births, Marriages and Deaths of Passengers and Seamen at Sea, 1891-1922
www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk
BT 100/294/2 Ship: Active. Official Number: 19557.
UK, Registers and Indexes of Births, Marriages and Deaths of Passengers and Seamen at Sea, 1891-1922
www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk
BT 100/294/2 Ship: Active. Official Number: 19557.
Name - William Milne Beattie.(37)
DOB - 1878
Place of Birth - Montrose.
Parents - Son of James Watt Beattie & Jane Milne
Early History - Lived at 8 Erskine Street, Montrose.
Rank - Boatswain.
Service History - Previous ship. Borderer.
DOB - 1878
Place of Birth - Montrose.
Parents - Son of James Watt Beattie & Jane Milne
Early History - Lived at 8 Erskine Street, Montrose.
Rank - Boatswain.
Service History - Previous ship. Borderer.
listed in UK, Registers and Indexes of Births, Marriages and Deaths of Passengers and Seamen at Sea, 1891-1922 as lamp trimmer and A.B.
Dundee Courier - Thursday 06 January 1916
MONTROSE BOATSWAIN ON LOST DUNDEE WHALER.
William Beattie, boatswain, the Montrose member of the crew of the Dundee whaler Active, who placed in a bottle a message that the vessel was sinking north-east of Lerwick, He was the son of Mr. James Beattie, 39 Lower Hall Street, Montrose. He was a sailmaker to trade, and had been only three months on the ship. He married a year ago, and was 37 years of age. His elder brother, James, is captain the Inverness, of Aberdeen.
Montrose Review - Friday 07 January 1916
LOSS OF OLD WHALER ACTIVE -- MONTROSE MAN DROWNED
On another page is recorded the foundering of the old whaling vessel Active off the Orkney Islands, and the loss of the entire crew. The boatswain of the vessel was Mr William Beattie, third son of Mr James Beattie, Lower Hall Street, night watchman at Chapel Works. Mr Beattie was 37 years of age, and his wife resides in Erskine Street. Deceased served his apprenticeship as a sailmaker with Messrs John & Andrew Clark, Commerce Street. After the finishing of his apprenticeship he went to sea, and was for a good many years on vessels of the Inver Line, Aberdeen, his brother being master of the Inverness of that Line, now at Barbadoes. Deceased was employed for about three months on the Active while she was undergoing repairs at Dundee, and signed on as one of the crew, when the Active sailed from that port a fortnight ago for a northern port. During the last few days bodies of several seamen have been washed ashore on different parts of the East Coast of the Orkneys. They have been identified as belonging to the Active.
Montrose Standard - Friday 07 January 1916
---while with. 'the loss of the Dundee whaler Active. William Beattie,, a young Montrose seaman, is presumed to have found a watery grave.
Dundee Courier - Thursday 06 January 1916
MONTROSE BOATSWAIN ON LOST DUNDEE WHALER.
William Beattie, boatswain, the Montrose member of the crew of the Dundee whaler Active, who placed in a bottle a message that the vessel was sinking north-east of Lerwick, He was the son of Mr. James Beattie, 39 Lower Hall Street, Montrose. He was a sailmaker to trade, and had been only three months on the ship. He married a year ago, and was 37 years of age. His elder brother, James, is captain the Inverness, of Aberdeen.
Montrose Review - Friday 07 January 1916
LOSS OF OLD WHALER ACTIVE -- MONTROSE MAN DROWNED
On another page is recorded the foundering of the old whaling vessel Active off the Orkney Islands, and the loss of the entire crew. The boatswain of the vessel was Mr William Beattie, third son of Mr James Beattie, Lower Hall Street, night watchman at Chapel Works. Mr Beattie was 37 years of age, and his wife resides in Erskine Street. Deceased served his apprenticeship as a sailmaker with Messrs John & Andrew Clark, Commerce Street. After the finishing of his apprenticeship he went to sea, and was for a good many years on vessels of the Inver Line, Aberdeen, his brother being master of the Inverness of that Line, now at Barbadoes. Deceased was employed for about three months on the Active while she was undergoing repairs at Dundee, and signed on as one of the crew, when the Active sailed from that port a fortnight ago for a northern port. During the last few days bodies of several seamen have been washed ashore on different parts of the East Coast of the Orkneys. They have been identified as belonging to the Active.
Montrose Standard - Friday 07 January 1916
---while with. 'the loss of the Dundee whaler Active. William Beattie,, a young Montrose seaman, is presumed to have found a watery grave.
Rosehill Cemetery Montrose, Angus, Scotland Photo: Mike Brown
Sources:
UK, Registers and Indexes of Births, Marriages and Deaths of Passengers and Seamen at Sea, 1891-1922
www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk
BT 100/294/2 Ship: Active. Official Number: 19557.
Findagrave.com
UK, Registers and Indexes of Births, Marriages and Deaths of Passengers and Seamen at Sea, 1891-1922
www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk
BT 100/294/2 Ship: Active. Official Number: 19557.
Findagrave.com
Name - Frank Morrell. (28)
DOB - 26th Jan 1888
Place of Birth - Dundee
Parents - Son of Francis Morrell & Jessie Caithness
Early History - Lived at 21 Ann St. Dundee or 184 Hilltown, Dundee
Rank - Carpenter.
Service History - Previous ship. Arranmoor.
DOB - 26th Jan 1888
Place of Birth - Dundee
Parents - Son of Francis Morrell & Jessie Caithness
Early History - Lived at 21 Ann St. Dundee or 184 Hilltown, Dundee
Rank - Carpenter.
Service History - Previous ship. Arranmoor.
Dundee People's Journal - Saturday 05 February 1916
MORRELL.—Drowned off the s.s. Active, on or about the 26th December, Frank Caithness Morrell, carpenter, second son the late Frank Morrell.
Sad and sudden was the call
Of my dear brother, loved by all;
We little thought that on that day
He would so soon be called away.
—inserted by his mother and brothers.
Dundee People's Journal - Saturday 05 February 1916
MORRELL.—Drowned off the s.s. Active, on or about the 26th December, Frank Caithness Morrell, carpenter, second son the late Frank Morrell.
Sad and sudden was the call
Of my dear brother, loved by all;
We little thought that on that day
He would so soon be called away.
—inserted by his mother and brothers.
Scotland, National Probate Index 1876-1936
Note: The body of Frank Morrell washed ashore on Shapinsay. (Statutory registers of death) The body was found ashore in Veantrow Bay. Buried in Shapinsay Kirkyard. (HB Co Archives)
At first this body was thought to be that of the ships master William Leask but photos sent to and from Dundee concluded this was Frank Morrell. (HB Co Archives)
At first this body was thought to be that of the ships master William Leask but photos sent to and from Dundee concluded this was Frank Morrell. (HB Co Archives)
Sources:
UK, Registers and Indexes of Births, Marriages and Deaths of Passengers and Seamen at Sea, 1891-1922
www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk
BT 100/294/2 Ship: Active. Official Number: 19557.
Hudson Bay Archives
UK, Registers and Indexes of Births, Marriages and Deaths of Passengers and Seamen at Sea, 1891-1922
www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk
BT 100/294/2 Ship: Active. Official Number: 19557.
Hudson Bay Archives
Name - William Wilkie. (38)
DOB - 1878
Place of Birth - Broughty Ferry
Parents - Son of Alexander Wilkie & Helen Lowson
Early History - Lived at Ann St. Dundee or 95 Alexander Street, Dundee
Rank - Cook
Service History - Previous ship. Warner.
DOB - 1878
Place of Birth - Broughty Ferry
Parents - Son of Alexander Wilkie & Helen Lowson
Early History - Lived at Ann St. Dundee or 95 Alexander Street, Dundee
Rank - Cook
Service History - Previous ship. Warner.
Dundee People's Journal - Saturday 08 January 1916
Before joining the Active, Wilkie, the Cook, had been employed as a cook in Caw’s Restaurant, 25 Panmure Street.
Dundee People's Journal - Saturday 23 December 1916
WILKIE.—In loving memory of William Wilkie, who was drowned through the sinking the s.s. Active, off the coast Orkney, about the 25th December 1915
Dundee People's Journal - Saturday 26 February 1916
WlLKlE— Drowned through the sinking of the s.s. Active, off the coast of Orkney, about 25th Dec, 1915, William Wilkie, beloved husband of Williamina Duff, 95 Alexander Street, and eldest son of Alexander Wilkie, 93 Peddie Street, Dundee.
Dundee People's Journal - Saturday 08 January 1916
Before joining the Active, Wilkie, the Cook, had been employed as a cook in Caw’s Restaurant, 25 Panmure Street.
Dundee People's Journal - Saturday 23 December 1916
WILKIE.—In loving memory of William Wilkie, who was drowned through the sinking the s.s. Active, off the coast Orkney, about the 25th December 1915
Dundee People's Journal - Saturday 26 February 1916
WlLKlE— Drowned through the sinking of the s.s. Active, off the coast of Orkney, about 25th Dec, 1915, William Wilkie, beloved husband of Williamina Duff, 95 Alexander Street, and eldest son of Alexander Wilkie, 93 Peddie Street, Dundee.
Sources:
UK, Registers and Indexes of Births, Marriages and Deaths of Passengers and Seamen at Sea, 1891-1922
www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk
BT 100/294/2 Ship: Active. Official Number: 19557.
UK, Registers and Indexes of Births, Marriages and Deaths of Passengers and Seamen at Sea, 1891-1922
www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk
BT 100/294/2 Ship: Active. Official Number: 19557.
Name - David Bernard (Stewart). (42)
DOB - 13th May 1873
Place of Birth - Dundee
Parents - Son of James Bernard & Wilhelmina Robertson Moodie
Early History - Lived at 14 Mid Street, Dundee. Late of HM Prison. Dundee.
Rank - Steward.
Service History - Previous ship. Loch Etive.
DOB - 13th May 1873
Place of Birth - Dundee
Parents - Son of James Bernard & Wilhelmina Robertson Moodie
Early History - Lived at 14 Mid Street, Dundee. Late of HM Prison. Dundee.
Rank - Steward.
Service History - Previous ship. Loch Etive.
Montrose Review - Friday 07 January 1916
Bernard, 'the steward, was formerly a warder in Dundee Prison.
Dundee People's Journal - Saturday 29 January 1916
STEWART.—Drowned off the s.s. Active, about 26th December, David Bernard Stewart., beloved husband of Mary Williamson, 14 Mid Street, Dundee.
Note: UK, Registers and Indexes of Births, Marriages and Deaths of Passengers and Seamen at Sea, 1891-1922 register the name as David Bernard but above obituary names his as Stewart but this is most likely an error by the paper who mistook Steward for Stewart.
Sources:
UK, Registers and Indexes of Births, Marriages and Deaths of Passengers and Seamen at Sea, 1891-1922
www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk
BT 100/294/2 Ship: Active. Official Number: 19557.
UK, Registers and Indexes of Births, Marriages and Deaths of Passengers and Seamen at Sea, 1891-1922
www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk
BT 100/294/2 Ship: Active. Official Number: 19557.
Name - Robert Henderson. (41)
DOB - 1874
Place of Birth - Montrose.
Parents -
Early History - Lived at 11 Peep O’ Dale Lane, Dundee
Rank - Donkeyman.
Service History - Previous ship. Perth.
DOB - 1874
Place of Birth - Montrose.
Parents -
Early History - Lived at 11 Peep O’ Dale Lane, Dundee
Rank - Donkeyman.
Service History - Previous ship. Perth.
Dundee People's Journal - Saturday 22 January 1916
HENDERSON.. In loving memory dear father, Robert Henderson, drowned off the s.s. Active, in December 1915.
Sleep on, dear father, should not awake thee.
For sorrow and care would darken thy brow;
Sweet is thy rest with the birds warbling o'er thee.
No more of earths trials can harm thee now.
inserted by his son Robert.
Dundee People's Journal - Saturday 29 January 1916
HENDERSON.-- Drowned on the s.s. Active, on 26th December 1915, Robert Henderson, beloved husband of Annie Gilghowhly, No. 11 Peep o' Day Lane, Dundee. -- R.I.P.
His toils are past, his work is done,
And he is fully blest;
He fought the fight, the victory won,
And entered into rest.
Then let our sorrows cease to flow,
God has recalled his own;
But let our hearts in every woe
Still say Thy will be done.
Sources:
UK, Registers and Indexes of Births, Marriages and Deaths of Passengers and Seamen at Sea, 1891-1922
www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk
BT 100/294/2 Ship: Active. Official Number: 19557.
UK, Registers and Indexes of Births, Marriages and Deaths of Passengers and Seamen at Sea, 1891-1922
www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk
BT 100/294/2 Ship: Active. Official Number: 19557.
Name - Robert Walker.(51)
DOB -
Place of Birth - Dundee
Parents -
Early History - Lived at C/o Park Ave, Dundee or 1 Couper's Alley, Wellgate, Dundee
Rank - Fireman & Trimmer
Service History - Previous ship. Ambassador. Robert was a C.P.O. Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve Clyde
DOB -
Place of Birth - Dundee
Parents -
Early History - Lived at C/o Park Ave, Dundee or 1 Couper's Alley, Wellgate, Dundee
Rank - Fireman & Trimmer
Service History - Previous ship. Ambassador. Robert was a C.P.O. Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve Clyde
Dundee People's Journal - Saturday 22 January 1916
WALKER. Drowned off the s.s. Active, Robert Walker, eldest son the late Michael Walker, engine driver.
Our brother Bob, he now is dead,
His journey here is o'er;
No more we'll see his cheery face
When he did come ashore.
mourn for him, our brother dear.
He was so good at heart,
Ready aye duty's call
To do his little part.
And as parted on the shore,
And wished our brother well.
We little thought was our last say him farewell.
Inserted his sisters and brothers.
Dundee People's Journal - Saturday 22 January 1916
WALKER. Drowned off the s.s. Active, Robert Walker, eldest son the late Michael Walker, engine driver.
Our brother Bob, he now is dead,
His journey here is o'er;
No more we'll see his cheery face
When he did come ashore.
mourn for him, our brother dear.
He was so good at heart,
Ready aye duty's call
To do his little part.
And as parted on the shore,
And wished our brother well.
We little thought was our last say him farewell.
Inserted his sisters and brothers.
Sources:
UK, Registers and Indexes of Births, Marriages and Deaths of Passengers and Seamen at Sea, 1891-1922
www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk
BT 100/294/2 Ship: Active. Official Number: 19557.
UK, Registers and Indexes of Births, Marriages and Deaths of Passengers and Seamen at Sea, 1891-1922
www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk
BT 100/294/2 Ship: Active. Official Number: 19557.
Name - John (Phin) Rose. (31)
DOB - 13th April 1884
Place of Birth - Dundee
Parents - Son of Alexander Rose & Eliza Gibson
Early History - Lived at 10 Dena Brea, Dundee.
Rank - Fireman & Trimmer
Service History - Previous ship. Princess Dagmar.
DOB - 13th April 1884
Place of Birth - Dundee
Parents - Son of Alexander Rose & Eliza Gibson
Early History - Lived at 10 Dena Brea, Dundee.
Rank - Fireman & Trimmer
Service History - Previous ship. Princess Dagmar.
Dundee People's Journal - Saturday 15 January 1916
DEATHS
ROSE - In memory of my dearly beloved husband, John Rose, shipwrecked on the whaler Active, about 26th December.
Sleep on, dear husband, your troubles are o'er
Your willing hands will toil no more;
A faithful husband, kind and true,
Few friends on earth I'll find like you.
- Inserted by his sorrowing wife, Annie.
John's wife Anne was 4 months pregnant at the time of the loss and gave birth to a son, John Rose, in May 1916.
Note: The body of John Rose washed ashore at Otters Geo in Deerness. (Statutory registers of death) and buried in Deerness Kirkyard. (HB Co archives)
Sources:
UK, Registers and Indexes of Births, Marriages and Deaths of Passengers and Seamen at Sea, 1891-1922
Statutory Register of Deaths
BT 100/294/2 Ship: Active. Official Number: 19557.
Hudson Bay Archives
UK, Registers and Indexes of Births, Marriages and Deaths of Passengers and Seamen at Sea, 1891-1922
Statutory Register of Deaths
BT 100/294/2 Ship: Active. Official Number: 19557.
Hudson Bay Archives
Name - Joseph Mitchell (36)
DOB - About 1879
Place of Birth - Aberdeen
Parents -
Early History - Lived at 6 Rubislaw Skene Street, Aberdeen.
Rank - Fireman & Trimmer
Service History - Previous ship. Strathmore.
DOB - About 1879
Place of Birth - Aberdeen
Parents -
Early History - Lived at 6 Rubislaw Skene Street, Aberdeen.
Rank - Fireman & Trimmer
Service History - Previous ship. Strathmore.
Sources:
UK, Registers and Indexes of Births, Marriages and Deaths of Passengers and Seamen at Sea, 1891-1922
BT 100/294/2 Ship: Active. Official Number: 19557.
UK, Registers and Indexes of Births, Marriages and Deaths of Passengers and Seamen at Sea, 1891-1922
BT 100/294/2 Ship: Active. Official Number: 19557.
Name - Daniel Duncan (Donald) Gillies (48)
DOB - 19th Aug 1866
Place of Birth - Stornoway, Lewis
Parents - Son of John Gillies & Margaret Buchanan
Early History - Lived on Isle of Ornsay, Skye.
Rank - Able Seaman
Service History - Previous ship. Ris Lages.
DOB - 19th Aug 1866
Place of Birth - Stornoway, Lewis
Parents - Son of John Gillies & Margaret Buchanan
Early History - Lived on Isle of Ornsay, Skye.
Rank - Able Seaman
Service History - Previous ship. Ris Lages.
.
Note: The body of Donald Gillies washed ashore on Papa Stronsay. (Statutory registers of death) and buried in St. Peter's Kirkyard, Stronsay. (HB Co archives)
Sources:
UK, Registers and Indexes of Births, Marriages and Deaths of Passengers and Seamen at Sea, 1891-1922
Statutory Register of Deaths
BT 100/294/2 Ship: Active. Official Number: 19557.
Hudson Bay Archives
UK, Registers and Indexes of Births, Marriages and Deaths of Passengers and Seamen at Sea, 1891-1922
Statutory Register of Deaths
BT 100/294/2 Ship: Active. Official Number: 19557.
Hudson Bay Archives
Name - Hinton Douglas Anderson (24)
DOB - 22nd Feb 1895
Place of Birth - Leith
Parents - Son of Hilton Douglas Anderson & Catherine Morris
Early History - Lived at 9 Thorntree Street, Leith
Rank - Able Seaman
Service History - Previous ship. Yearby.
Hinton Anderson was a gunner in the Royal Navy Reserve but was invalided out on the 29th November 1915 due to ''Disease of eyes, Defective acuity.''.
DOB - 22nd Feb 1895
Place of Birth - Leith
Parents - Son of Hilton Douglas Anderson & Catherine Morris
Early History - Lived at 9 Thorntree Street, Leith
Rank - Able Seaman
Service History - Previous ship. Yearby.
Hinton Anderson was a gunner in the Royal Navy Reserve but was invalided out on the 29th November 1915 due to ''Disease of eyes, Defective acuity.''.
|
|
Seafield Cemetery. Headstone reads ''Hinton Douglas Anderson - Drowned at Scapa Flow''. Photo: PmCp
Sources:
UK, Registers and Indexes of Births, Marriages and Deaths of Passengers and Seamen at Sea, 1891-1922
Findagrave.com
BT 100/294/2 Ship: Active. Official Number: 19557.
UK, Registers and Indexes of Births, Marriages and Deaths of Passengers and Seamen at Sea, 1891-1922
Findagrave.com
BT 100/294/2 Ship: Active. Official Number: 19557.
Portrait of Farquhar MacDonald.
Photo: Mrs Mairi Dick. (granddaughter)
Name - Farquhar MacDonald (49)
DOB - 28th April 1866
Place of Birth - Isle of Skye
Parents - Son of Murdoch "Murdo" MacDonald & Margaret MacKinnon.
Early History - lived at 18 Lower Breakish, Broardford, Isle of Skye
Rank - Able Seaman
Service History - Previous ship. Ris Lages.
DOB - 28th April 1866
Place of Birth - Isle of Skye
Parents - Son of Murdoch "Murdo" MacDonald & Margaret MacKinnon.
Early History - lived at 18 Lower Breakish, Broardford, Isle of Skye
Rank - Able Seaman
Service History - Previous ship. Ris Lages.
Ashaig Cemetery, Skye. Photos kindly provided by John MacLeod
In loving memory of FARQUHAR MACDONALD
18 Breakish
lost at sea December 1915
aged 43
and his dear wife EUPHEMIA MACLEAN
died 18th October 1958 aged 86
18 Breakish
lost at sea December 1915
aged 43
and his dear wife EUPHEMIA MACLEAN
died 18th October 1958 aged 86
Sources:
UK, Registers and Indexes of Births, Marriages and Deaths of Passengers and Seamen at Sea, 1891-1922
BT 100/294/2 Ship: Active. Official Number: 19557.
Angela Jack
John MacLeod
Mairi Dick. (granddaughter)
UK, Registers and Indexes of Births, Marriages and Deaths of Passengers and Seamen at Sea, 1891-1922
BT 100/294/2 Ship: Active. Official Number: 19557.
Angela Jack
John MacLeod
Mairi Dick. (granddaughter)
Name - Martin A. Sayman (31)
DOB - 1884
Place of Birth - St Louis USA
Parents -
Early History - Lived at 8 Admiralty Street, Leith.
Rank - Seaman
Service History - Previous ship. SS Lemnos.
The SS Lemnos stranded on the 16th December 1915 on the shallow Tees breakwater off Middlesbrough and became a total wreck.
DOB - 1884
Place of Birth - St Louis USA
Parents -
Early History - Lived at 8 Admiralty Street, Leith.
Rank - Seaman
Service History - Previous ship. SS Lemnos.
The SS Lemnos stranded on the 16th December 1915 on the shallow Tees breakwater off Middlesbrough and became a total wreck.
Sources:
UK, Registers and Indexes of Births, Marriages and Deaths of Passengers and Seamen at Sea, 1891-1922
BT 100/294/2 Ship: Active. Official Number: 19557.
UK, Registers and Indexes of Births, Marriages and Deaths of Passengers and Seamen at Sea, 1891-1922
BT 100/294/2 Ship: Active. Official Number: 19557.
Name - Andrew Simpson (16)
DOB - 1899
Place of Birth - Grangemouth
Parents -
Early History - Lived at 39 Prince Regent Street, Leith
Rank - Seaman
Service History - Previous ship. Devona.
DOB - 1899
Place of Birth - Grangemouth
Parents -
Early History - Lived at 39 Prince Regent Street, Leith
Rank - Seaman
Service History - Previous ship. Devona.
Sources:
UK, Registers and Indexes of Births, Marriages and Deaths of Passengers and Seamen at Sea, 1891-1922
BT 100/294/2 Ship: Active. Official Number: 19557.
UK, Registers and Indexes of Births, Marriages and Deaths of Passengers and Seamen at Sea, 1891-1922
BT 100/294/2 Ship: Active. Official Number: 19557.
Post War
Death of Captain Robertson
Birmingham Daily Gazette - Tuesday 17 December 1918
FAMOUS WHALER DEAD. The death is announced at Peterhead Captain Robertson, the famous Scottish whaler, who visited the Arctic regions many times. He commanded the Scotia and the Active Antarctic research expeditions for the discovery of an island named Dundee, and received an honorarium from the Royal Geographical Society.
Huddersfield Daily Examiner - Tuesday 17 December 1918
Captain Robertson, the Scottish whaler, who had made many Arctic voyages and commanded Scotia and the Active on Antarctic research expeditions, has died at Peterhead.
FAMOUS WHALER DEAD. The death is announced at Peterhead Captain Robertson, the famous Scottish whaler, who visited the Arctic regions many times. He commanded the Scotia and the Active Antarctic research expeditions for the discovery of an island named Dundee, and received an honorarium from the Royal Geographical Society.
Huddersfield Daily Examiner - Tuesday 17 December 1918
Captain Robertson, the Scottish whaler, who had made many Arctic voyages and commanded Scotia and the Active on Antarctic research expeditions, has died at Peterhead.
Aberdeen Press and Journal - Tuesday 17 December 1918
CAPT. ROBERTSON, PETERHEAD. Captain Thomas Robertson, who died at Dundee on Saturday after a long illness, was well known throughout the Empire as a whaling captain and explorer. Member of an old whaling family Peterhead, Captain Robertson began his experiences in the Arctic seas at a very early age. Both his father and grandfather were whaling captains in their time, and the youthful whale hunter was trained in a good school. He was promoted captain when quite a youth, and for over a quarter a century he was actively engaged in whaling in the Arctic. When Dundee sent out a flotilla of whalers to the Antarctic, Captain Robertson was in charge of one of the ships, and the Royal Geographical Society acknowledged his discovery of Dundee Island in the Antarctic regions. Dr .S. Bruce, the leader of the Scottish Antarctic Expedition (1902), secured Captain Robertson as captain of the Scotia, and on his return he was awarded the silver medal of the Royal Scottish Geographical Society. Later, when engaged whaling with the Scotia in the Arctic Ocean, he saved the crew of a Norwegian schooner, and the Norwegian Government recognised this service by presenting a silver cup. He was appointed captain of the Government ship sent out to patrol the Atlantic and report on the drift of icebergs.
CAPT. ROBERTSON, PETERHEAD. Captain Thomas Robertson, who died at Dundee on Saturday after a long illness, was well known throughout the Empire as a whaling captain and explorer. Member of an old whaling family Peterhead, Captain Robertson began his experiences in the Arctic seas at a very early age. Both his father and grandfather were whaling captains in their time, and the youthful whale hunter was trained in a good school. He was promoted captain when quite a youth, and for over a quarter a century he was actively engaged in whaling in the Arctic. When Dundee sent out a flotilla of whalers to the Antarctic, Captain Robertson was in charge of one of the ships, and the Royal Geographical Society acknowledged his discovery of Dundee Island in the Antarctic regions. Dr .S. Bruce, the leader of the Scottish Antarctic Expedition (1902), secured Captain Robertson as captain of the Scotia, and on his return he was awarded the silver medal of the Royal Scottish Geographical Society. Later, when engaged whaling with the Scotia in the Arctic Ocean, he saved the crew of a Norwegian schooner, and the Norwegian Government recognised this service by presenting a silver cup. He was appointed captain of the Government ship sent out to patrol the Atlantic and report on the drift of icebergs.
Scottish National Antarctic Expedition Medal
Dundee Museum
Dundee Evening Telegraph - Monday 01 April 1929
DUNDEE MUSEUM "FAMILY"
Mexican Axolotls Progeny. New Arctic Case.
After 33 days the spawn of the Mexican axolotls in Dundee have hatched, and 11 lively youngsters, each about half inch in length, are now disporting themselves in their nursery tank. . A new Arctic case 10 ft. 4 ft. has been erected in to contain some minor Arctic exhibits. In the background has been placed the oil painting of the whaler Active, recently presented by Captain Fairweather. The Active, which was built at Peterhead in 1853, was Captain Fairweather's first Arctic command. The lighting of the case is from the interior, and the same method of lighting has been installed in the case Antarctic birds, which the late Sir Ernest Shackleton presented to the late Sir James Caird, and which has been on exhibition the Museum for a number of years.
DUNDEE MUSEUM "FAMILY"
Mexican Axolotls Progeny. New Arctic Case.
After 33 days the spawn of the Mexican axolotls in Dundee have hatched, and 11 lively youngsters, each about half inch in length, are now disporting themselves in their nursery tank. . A new Arctic case 10 ft. 4 ft. has been erected in to contain some minor Arctic exhibits. In the background has been placed the oil painting of the whaler Active, recently presented by Captain Fairweather. The Active, which was built at Peterhead in 1853, was Captain Fairweather's first Arctic command. The lighting of the case is from the interior, and the same method of lighting has been installed in the case Antarctic birds, which the late Sir Ernest Shackleton presented to the late Sir James Caird, and which has been on exhibition the Museum for a number of years.
Dundee Courier - Monday 08 April 1929
DUNDEE MUSEUM ATTRACTIONS ADDITION TO ARCTIC SECTION.
Dundonians spending the spring holiday in the city to-day will find new attractions of much interest in the museum and picture galleries at the Albert Institute, which will be open from 11 a.m. till 9 p.m. There has just been added to the Arctic section a large case depicting a scene the Far North. The background is artistically treated showing icebergs and sea, including an oil painting of the Dundee whaler, Active, recently presented by Captain James Fairweather, who for many years visited the Arctic with the Dundee whaling expeditions. The Active was built at Peterhead in 1853, and was Captain Fairweather's first command. In the foreground are icebergs and snow, with a model of native paddling along in his kayak. The case beautifully lit from the interior, as is also the fine case of Antarctic birds, gifted some years ago by the late Sir .lames K. Caird, Bart. In gallery 1 there has been hung large selection of photographs from the Dundee Survey, including street scenes, old buildings, many of which have been removed, closes and wynds, churches, harbour scenes, including pictures of the old wind-jammers which were wont to crowd the docks. Volunteers, showing the uniforms worn in byegone days and other photographs of old and new Dundee.
DUNDEE MUSEUM ATTRACTIONS ADDITION TO ARCTIC SECTION.
Dundonians spending the spring holiday in the city to-day will find new attractions of much interest in the museum and picture galleries at the Albert Institute, which will be open from 11 a.m. till 9 p.m. There has just been added to the Arctic section a large case depicting a scene the Far North. The background is artistically treated showing icebergs and sea, including an oil painting of the Dundee whaler, Active, recently presented by Captain James Fairweather, who for many years visited the Arctic with the Dundee whaling expeditions. The Active was built at Peterhead in 1853, and was Captain Fairweather's first command. In the foreground are icebergs and snow, with a model of native paddling along in his kayak. The case beautifully lit from the interior, as is also the fine case of Antarctic birds, gifted some years ago by the late Sir .lames K. Caird, Bart. In gallery 1 there has been hung large selection of photographs from the Dundee Survey, including street scenes, old buildings, many of which have been removed, closes and wynds, churches, harbour scenes, including pictures of the old wind-jammers which were wont to crowd the docks. Volunteers, showing the uniforms worn in byegone days and other photographs of old and new Dundee.
Discovery Point and RRS Discovery - Dundee
A small corner of the museum in Dundee is dedicated to the SS Active.
Photos: LiWD
Click on link below:
