Shetland Tragedies
Albert Moody A.B. (05/09/1890)
Forrester Class Gunboat
Orkney Herald, and Weekly Advertiser and Gazette for the Orkney & Zetland Islands - Wednesday 10 September 1890
SAD FATAL ACCIDENT--On Friday evening when the boat from the gunboat Firm had come ashore at ten o'clock to bring off the men on leave, one of the crew who had pulled the boat ashore, named Albert Moodie, on stepping out of the boat, accidentally slipped and fell, his head coming into violent contact with the concrete at the top of the esplanade. He was raised up by his shipmates, when it was found that he had sustained very serious injuries to his skull. He never recovered consciousness, and died shortly after.
Shetland Times - Saturday 13 September 1890
Naval Funeral. —On Tuesday afternoon the remains of Alfred Moodie, A.B., who met his death under such sad circumstances, were conveyed to their last resting place in the Lerwick New Cemetery. Detachments the seamen and marines were landed at Victoria Pier from the gunboats Firm and Watchful, to the number of about 70, and having been formed in order marched off under command of Lieut. Somerset. Service was conducted in S. Magnus Church by the Rev, R. Walker, from which place the body was borne six of the crew of the Firm, the firing party in front, and the rest of the crew, officers, and marines following. The coffin was draped with the Union Jack and was surmounted with large and beautiful wreaths. On arriving at the grave the body was set down, and the funeral service was read by the Rev. Mr Walker. the conclusion of the service, three volleys were fired over the grave, after which the company reformed and marched back to the boats. The whole route to the cemetery was lined with a large number of people, and quite crowd had assembled in the churchyard to witness the last ceremonies preformed to the remains of the unfortunate young seaman.
Naval Funeral. —On Tuesday afternoon the remains of Alfred Moodie, A.B., who met his death under such sad circumstances, were conveyed to their last resting place in the Lerwick New Cemetery. Detachments the seamen and marines were landed at Victoria Pier from the gunboats Firm and Watchful, to the number of about 70, and having been formed in order marched off under command of Lieut. Somerset. Service was conducted in S. Magnus Church by the Rev, R. Walker, from which place the body was borne six of the crew of the Firm, the firing party in front, and the rest of the crew, officers, and marines following. The coffin was draped with the Union Jack and was surmounted with large and beautiful wreaths. On arriving at the grave the body was set down, and the funeral service was read by the Rev. Mr Walker. the conclusion of the service, three volleys were fired over the grave, after which the company reformed and marched back to the boats. The whole route to the cemetery was lined with a large number of people, and quite crowd had assembled in the churchyard to witness the last ceremonies preformed to the remains of the unfortunate young seaman.
A.B. Albert Moody Headstone. (Photos: Kevin Thompson)
George Lee. R.N.R Gunnery Instructor (09/01/1893)
Shetland Times - Saturday 14 January 1893
DEATH OF R.N.R. INSTRUCTOR.
On Monday last after a lingering and painful illness, Mr George Lee, gunnery instructor at Fort Charlotte, died at the early age of 40 years. Deceased had been in indifferent health for some time, and getting a chill he was confined to the house a little over four weeks ago. He had apparently passed the worst stages of his illness, and was beginning to recover, when a new form of disease set in preventing a return of the veinous blood to the heart. Notwithstanding all that medical skill could do, he sank steadily, until, stated above, he died on Monday the 9th instant, shortly after noon.
Deceased came to Lerwick as gunnery instructor Fort Charlotte, in October, 1890, and shortly after his arrival his wife died. In September last he married again Mrs Mclnnes. late of Scalloway, by whom he is survived. During the time he has been stationed at Lerwick, he has made many friends, especially among the members of the Reserve. His genial nature and kindly disposition made him favourite wherever he came, and his untimely death will be regretted by a large circle of friends.
Orkney Herald, and Weekly Advertiser and Gazette for the Orkney & Zetland Islands - Wednesday 18 January 1893
FUNERAL OF A NAVAL INSTRUCTOR. --The death took place at Prince Alfred street, Lerwick, on Monday week, of George Lee, gunnery instructor at Fort Charlotte. The funeral took place on Thursday with naval honours, the men of the Royal Naval Reserve, with the whole staff of gunnery instructors and coastguard, Mr Sweenie, chief officer, Lieut. Furlonger. R.N., Divisional Officer, Orkney and Shetland Division taking part in the ceremony.
The remains of the deceased were brought from his residence on a gun carriage, the coffin being covered with the Union Jack, on which lay a beautiful wreath. On either side of the carriage walked the comrades of deceased, while the front and rear were taken up by the men of the Reserve, the party in front walking with arms reversed. The solemnity of the ceremony was enhanced by the presence of the Brass Band, which with muffled drums played ‘’The Dead March in Saul" throughout the march to the church and burial place.
The procession proceeded to St. Magnus Church where the funeral service was conducted by the Rev. Mr Walker. After the conclusion of the service, the procession was reformed, and proceeded to the New Cemetery, on reaching the entrance to which the front ranks were opened up and lined either side of the road while the coffin was lifted up on the shoulders of four gunnery instructors and thus borne to the grave. Being the concluding part of the service was performed by Mr Walker, and thereafter a rifle party fired three volleys over the grave with blank cartridges. This concluded the ceremony, which lasted over nearly two hours, and the procession left the cemetery, the men now marching with arms at the slope. and the band playing the livelier strains of "The Eden Above."
The whole ceremony was most impressive and was witnessed by large numbers of people. This is the first time the Brass Band here has assisted at such a function, and the manner in a which the funeral march was played did much to solemnise the occasion —Shetland News.
FUNERAL OF A NAVAL INSTRUCTOR. --The death took place at Prince Alfred street, Lerwick, on Monday week, of George Lee, gunnery instructor at Fort Charlotte. The funeral took place on Thursday with naval honours, the men of the Royal Naval Reserve, with the whole staff of gunnery instructors and coastguard, Mr Sweenie, chief officer, Lieut. Furlonger. R.N., Divisional Officer, Orkney and Shetland Division taking part in the ceremony.
The remains of the deceased were brought from his residence on a gun carriage, the coffin being covered with the Union Jack, on which lay a beautiful wreath. On either side of the carriage walked the comrades of deceased, while the front and rear were taken up by the men of the Reserve, the party in front walking with arms reversed. The solemnity of the ceremony was enhanced by the presence of the Brass Band, which with muffled drums played ‘’The Dead March in Saul" throughout the march to the church and burial place.
The procession proceeded to St. Magnus Church where the funeral service was conducted by the Rev. Mr Walker. After the conclusion of the service, the procession was reformed, and proceeded to the New Cemetery, on reaching the entrance to which the front ranks were opened up and lined either side of the road while the coffin was lifted up on the shoulders of four gunnery instructors and thus borne to the grave. Being the concluding part of the service was performed by Mr Walker, and thereafter a rifle party fired three volleys over the grave with blank cartridges. This concluded the ceremony, which lasted over nearly two hours, and the procession left the cemetery, the men now marching with arms at the slope. and the band playing the livelier strains of "The Eden Above."
The whole ceremony was most impressive and was witnessed by large numbers of people. This is the first time the Brass Band here has assisted at such a function, and the manner in a which the funeral march was played did much to solemnise the occasion —Shetland News.
The Lee Memorial, Lerwick (Photos: Kevin Thompson)
Shetland Times - Saturday 09 May 1891
DEATHS. At 3 Prince Alfred Street, Lerwick, on the 4th instant. Mary Jane Drew, beloved wife of George Lee, Instructor, R.N.R. Battery. aged 37 years.
DEATHS. At 3 Prince Alfred Street, Lerwick, on the 4th instant. Mary Jane Drew, beloved wife of George Lee, Instructor, R.N.R. Battery. aged 37 years.
Footnote: Kevin Thompson, while looking for headstones relating to this project, was shown the records by a worker in the cemetery. These records show that George Lee is buried in the same plot as his late wife, who had died two years previous, despite George having remarried since. His name in not on the memorial.
Dutch Sailors Death
Seaman Reinier Jan Kamp (12/06/1893)
HNLMS Zeehond
Aberdeen Press and Journal - Thursday 15 June 1893
SEAMAN KILLED AT LERWICK.-The funeral took place here yesterday, with naval honours, of a young seaman from on board the Netherlands cruiser Zeehond, which arrived at Lerwick on Monday. When off the Shetland Islands the man was sent up to clear the flag, when he slipped and fell into the sea, his head coming in contact with the ship's railing. Death was instantaneous.
SEAMAN KILLED AT LERWICK.-The funeral took place here yesterday, with naval honours, of a young seaman from on board the Netherlands cruiser Zeehond, which arrived at Lerwick on Monday. When off the Shetland Islands the man was sent up to clear the flag, when he slipped and fell into the sea, his head coming in contact with the ship's railing. Death was instantaneous.
Shetland Times - Saturday 17 June 1893
DUTCH MAN-O-WAR AT LERWICK. SEAMAN KILLED. Monday forenoon the Dutch gunboat Zeehond, Lieut'. Henreus Octavius Feith commanding, arrived at Lerwick from cruise in the North Sea. She was short of provisions and coals, and got ten tons of bunkers from Messrs Hay & Co's coal hulk. Shortly before coming into port a sad accident occurred by which a young seaman named Reinier Jan Kamp lost his life. He was aloft, when he missed his footing and fell, striking the bulwark's with his head. He was picked up, but never regained consciousness, death ensuing within half an-hour of the time of the accident.
THE FUNERAL of Kamp took place on Wednesday morning, when the remains were taken ashore and placed on a hearse on the esplanade and conveyed to the New cemetery. A company from the ship to accompany the remains, a firing-party of marines going in front of the hearse, accompanied by drummer, while over the coffin the Dutch colours were laid and held in position by four seamen, an officer coming behind the coffin, and a party of sailors brought up the rear. When the grave was reached and the Coffin placed in it, the marines fired three rounds over the remains, the company were then re-formed and marched back to the esplanade. The Zeehond left direct for Holland in the afternoon of Wednesday.
DUTCH MAN-O-WAR AT LERWICK. SEAMAN KILLED. Monday forenoon the Dutch gunboat Zeehond, Lieut'. Henreus Octavius Feith commanding, arrived at Lerwick from cruise in the North Sea. She was short of provisions and coals, and got ten tons of bunkers from Messrs Hay & Co's coal hulk. Shortly before coming into port a sad accident occurred by which a young seaman named Reinier Jan Kamp lost his life. He was aloft, when he missed his footing and fell, striking the bulwark's with his head. He was picked up, but never regained consciousness, death ensuing within half an-hour of the time of the accident.
THE FUNERAL of Kamp took place on Wednesday morning, when the remains were taken ashore and placed on a hearse on the esplanade and conveyed to the New cemetery. A company from the ship to accompany the remains, a firing-party of marines going in front of the hearse, accompanied by drummer, while over the coffin the Dutch colours were laid and held in position by four seamen, an officer coming behind the coffin, and a party of sailors brought up the rear. When the grave was reached and the Coffin placed in it, the marines fired three rounds over the remains, the company were then re-formed and marched back to the esplanade. The Zeehond left direct for Holland in the afternoon of Wednesday.
Memorial to Dutch Seamen. Lerwick. (Photos: Kevin Thompson)
William Nicolson R.N.R. (06/11/1896)
Shetland Times - Saturday 14 November 1896
Mysterious Disappearance of a Royal Naval Reserve Man.—A young seaman named William Nicolson, who has been at Lerwick putting in his drill for this season, left his lodgings in Burns Lane on Thursday evening last week, and has not yet returned the police were communicated with on Friday, and investigations were made from which it appeared that he left the bar of one of the hotels shortly after nine o’clock, and was last seen in the vicinity of the Widows Asylum about 9.30 o’clock. He then appeared to be under the influence of drink, but the man who saw him did not speak to him.
His friends were telegraphed to on Friday, in the hope that he might have gone home, but they had no word of him. On Saturday a careful search was made along the seashore from the Widows’ Asylum to the Knab but no trace could be found of the missing man. A rumour got abroad on Sunday that he turned up all right, but this proved to be quite unfounded. Nothing more was heard of him until Wednesday morning, when a cap was found on the shore below the New Cemetery, which was handed over to the police. When shown to the people he had lodged with, they said it was a cap similar to that which Nicolson was wearing, when he left the house on Thursday evening. There seems to be but little doubt that the unfortunate fellow has committed suicide, although what can have led him to such rash act must remain mystery. He was in his usual health and was speaking to some of his companions on Thursday about going to Scalloway to a friend’s marriage that night. William Nicolson, was 30 years of age, and belonged to Swinister, North Delting. He is survived by young widow and one son. His father, Robert Nicolson was out fishing on the night of the 9th December, 1877, and although he was fortunate in reaching his house alive, his constitution was completely shattered, and his health has been indifferent ever since.
Mysterious Disappearance of a Royal Naval Reserve Man.—A young seaman named William Nicolson, who has been at Lerwick putting in his drill for this season, left his lodgings in Burns Lane on Thursday evening last week, and has not yet returned the police were communicated with on Friday, and investigations were made from which it appeared that he left the bar of one of the hotels shortly after nine o’clock, and was last seen in the vicinity of the Widows Asylum about 9.30 o’clock. He then appeared to be under the influence of drink, but the man who saw him did not speak to him.
His friends were telegraphed to on Friday, in the hope that he might have gone home, but they had no word of him. On Saturday a careful search was made along the seashore from the Widows’ Asylum to the Knab but no trace could be found of the missing man. A rumour got abroad on Sunday that he turned up all right, but this proved to be quite unfounded. Nothing more was heard of him until Wednesday morning, when a cap was found on the shore below the New Cemetery, which was handed over to the police. When shown to the people he had lodged with, they said it was a cap similar to that which Nicolson was wearing, when he left the house on Thursday evening. There seems to be but little doubt that the unfortunate fellow has committed suicide, although what can have led him to such rash act must remain mystery. He was in his usual health and was speaking to some of his companions on Thursday about going to Scalloway to a friend’s marriage that night. William Nicolson, was 30 years of age, and belonged to Swinister, North Delting. He is survived by young widow and one son. His father, Robert Nicolson was out fishing on the night of the 9th December, 1877, and although he was fortunate in reaching his house alive, his constitution was completely shattered, and his health has been indifferent ever since.
Aberdeen Press and Journal - Thursday 03 December 1896
RECOVERY OF BODY AT LERWICK.-The body of the man William Nicolson, who mysteriously disappeared from Lerwick about a month ago, was found on the sea shore near Lerwick yesterday morning. The deceased was a member of the Royal Naval Reserve, and when in Lerwick undergoing his annual training he disappeared. It is supposed he had accidentally fallen overboard. Deceased leaves a widow and one child.
RECOVERY OF BODY AT LERWICK.-The body of the man William Nicolson, who mysteriously disappeared from Lerwick about a month ago, was found on the sea shore near Lerwick yesterday morning. The deceased was a member of the Royal Naval Reserve, and when in Lerwick undergoing his annual training he disappeared. It is supposed he had accidentally fallen overboard. Deceased leaves a widow and one child.
Shetland Times - Saturday 05 December 1896
The Missing R.N.R. Man.— On Wednesday morning, while some young lads were going round the cliffs at the Battery Banks,” they were surprised to see the body of a man lying on the beach, a short distance below highwater mark. They at once communicated with the authorities, who proceeded to the place, and wrapping the remains in an old sail, and fastening it to a board had it removed to the mortuary. The body seemed to have been cast up by the sea, rather than floated. It was in an advanced state of decomposition, and was almost entirely nude, the only part of the clothing remaining attached, being one boot and a stocking. It was by the coloured stocking and the blutcher boot that the remains were identified as those of William Nicolson, the young seaman who went missing in Lerwick, four weeks ago on Thursday. It must always remain a mystery how the poor fellow got into the water. He could hardly have got to the place where he was found by accident. The place is known by the name of the ''Corky Gio,” and is about five hundred yards to the west of the Knab. Both the legs were broken, but whether in his fall, or the dashing of the body on the rocks when it was driven ashore, cannot known. The remains were interred on Thursday. Nicolson was a native of Delting and, already stated, leaves widow and one child.
The Missing R.N.R. Man.— On Wednesday morning, while some young lads were going round the cliffs at the Battery Banks,” they were surprised to see the body of a man lying on the beach, a short distance below highwater mark. They at once communicated with the authorities, who proceeded to the place, and wrapping the remains in an old sail, and fastening it to a board had it removed to the mortuary. The body seemed to have been cast up by the sea, rather than floated. It was in an advanced state of decomposition, and was almost entirely nude, the only part of the clothing remaining attached, being one boot and a stocking. It was by the coloured stocking and the blutcher boot that the remains were identified as those of William Nicolson, the young seaman who went missing in Lerwick, four weeks ago on Thursday. It must always remain a mystery how the poor fellow got into the water. He could hardly have got to the place where he was found by accident. The place is known by the name of the ''Corky Gio,” and is about five hundred yards to the west of the Knab. Both the legs were broken, but whether in his fall, or the dashing of the body on the rocks when it was driven ashore, cannot known. The remains were interred on Thursday. Nicolson was a native of Delting and, already stated, leaves widow and one child.
Death of Bluejacket at Lerwick
Stoker 2nd Class Samuel Hignett RN (25/01/1901)
HMS Speedwell
Shetland Times - Saturday 02 February 1901
Death of Bluejacket at Lerwick- Naval Funeral.— On the arrival of the gunboat Speedwell at Lerwick on the 18th January, one of the crew named Samuel Hignitt, was found to be suffering from acute inflammation of the lungs, and was put ashore to the Hospital for medical treatment and nursing. Notwithstanding all that could be done for the poor fellow, however, he gradually sank, and early on Saturday morning he passed away. On Tuesday he was buried with naval honours, the whole of the men at present on drill at Fort Charlotte, along with the Coast Guard and Gunnery staff being present The remains were removed from the Hospital to St. Magnus’ Church on a gun-carriage, the coffin being covered with the Union Jack, while some kind friend had contributed a beautiful wreath which was placed above the flag.
On reaching the church, the coffin was lifted and carried up the aisle, while about thirty ladies who were present joined singing the hymn “O God, our help in ages past.” Thereafter the 90th Psalm was chanted, and a portion of Scripture read. This was followed by the singing of the hymn“ Jesus lives, no longer now can thy terrors, death, appal us, 1 while the closing hymn was “Belief life is here our portion.” At the close of the service, the organ played the “Dead March in Saul,” and as the notes swelled through the church, the coffin was reverently lifted and borne out of the church. Outside it was carried on the shoulders of the six of the members of the Coast Guard and Gunnery staff. the grave being reached, the service for the dead was read by Rev. E. J. Hodges, and after the body had been lowered down, the firing party stood forward and tired three volleys. The Reserve thereafter marched back to the Fort. Besides the members of Reserve, a number of others attended the funeral, to pay respect to the unfortunate lad, who had died so far away from friends and home. Hignitt was a native of Runcorn, and was about 20 years of age.
Death of Bluejacket at Lerwick- Naval Funeral.— On the arrival of the gunboat Speedwell at Lerwick on the 18th January, one of the crew named Samuel Hignitt, was found to be suffering from acute inflammation of the lungs, and was put ashore to the Hospital for medical treatment and nursing. Notwithstanding all that could be done for the poor fellow, however, he gradually sank, and early on Saturday morning he passed away. On Tuesday he was buried with naval honours, the whole of the men at present on drill at Fort Charlotte, along with the Coast Guard and Gunnery staff being present The remains were removed from the Hospital to St. Magnus’ Church on a gun-carriage, the coffin being covered with the Union Jack, while some kind friend had contributed a beautiful wreath which was placed above the flag.
On reaching the church, the coffin was lifted and carried up the aisle, while about thirty ladies who were present joined singing the hymn “O God, our help in ages past.” Thereafter the 90th Psalm was chanted, and a portion of Scripture read. This was followed by the singing of the hymn“ Jesus lives, no longer now can thy terrors, death, appal us, 1 while the closing hymn was “Belief life is here our portion.” At the close of the service, the organ played the “Dead March in Saul,” and as the notes swelled through the church, the coffin was reverently lifted and borne out of the church. Outside it was carried on the shoulders of the six of the members of the Coast Guard and Gunnery staff. the grave being reached, the service for the dead was read by Rev. E. J. Hodges, and after the body had been lowered down, the firing party stood forward and tired three volleys. The Reserve thereafter marched back to the Fort. Besides the members of Reserve, a number of others attended the funeral, to pay respect to the unfortunate lad, who had died so far away from friends and home. Hignitt was a native of Runcorn, and was about 20 years of age.
Dutch Warship HNLMS Evertsen at Lerwick
Quartermaster J. Prins (05/08/1905)
HNLMS Evertsen
Shetland Times - Saturday 12 August 1905
VISIT OF A DUTCH WARSHIP TO LERWICK.
On forenoon the Dutch coast defence ironclad Evertsen—Captain P.P. Swaan commanding—arrived at Lerwick on a cruise. It was many years since a Dutch war vessel—other than a fishery cruiser—visited this town, and a representative of the navy of our old friends the Hollanders was eagerly welcomed by the people. The Evertsen took up a berth in the south harbour, quite close to the shore. She is built of steel, has one large funnel, and two military masts. Her length is 283 feet, beam 47 feet, draught 16 feet 10 inches, and her displacement is 3520 tons. She has an indicated horsepower of 4800. and her speed is 16 knots. She has 17 quick-firing guns of various calibre, and is fitted with two torpedo tubes, and carries a crew of 260 men all told. The vessel was painted a light grey colour and lying close to the shore she presented a very imposing appearance. Shortly after her arrival. Mr J. K. Galloway, vice-consul for the Netherlands, paid a visit to the Evertsen. and in the course of the day a considerable number of people went board the ship and were shown over her members of the crew.
QUARTERMASTER DROWNED —NAVAL FUNERAL.
After the Evertsen’s arrival it became known that one of her crew—Quartermaster J. Prinz—had been drowned the previous morning, and that his body had been recovered and was aboard the vessel. On Friday night a strong wind was blowing, with a heavy sea from the east, and it appears that Prinz. accidentally fell overboard, life buoy was thrown to him and he swam to it and was successful in getting into it but owing to the darkness and the heavy sea it impossible to see him and two hours elapsed, during which the vessel cruised about, before the unfortunate man was seen. He was rescued immediately being seen, but the poor fellow was dead when taken on board. Prinz was 33 years of age and married.
On Monday his remains were interred in the New Cemetery. The funeral took place at two o'clock. About 100 men from the Evertsen and most of the officers—including the commander—came ashore at Victoria Pier, where the remains were landed. Lieut. Buckle, R.N., Divisional Officer at Fort Charlotte, also attended the funeral, as did a contingent of British bluejackets from H.M.S. Speedwell, under the command of Chief Gunner Barclay. The Vice-Consul also attended. Flags were flying half-mast on the Evertsen, H.M.S. Speedwell, at Fort Charlotte, and the flagstaff the Town Hall Tower the Dutch colours were also half-mast. At Victoria Pier a large concourse of people had assembled.
The man-o’-war's men stood with ranks opened out, down through which the coffin was carried shoulder-high, with the Dutch flag and wreaths on it, surmounting the whole being the cap and decorations of the deceased. At the head of the procession were two buglers—the one playing a flute, and the other a side drum draped in crape. Much wonderment was expressed at such a band, it was known that there was a splendid brass band on board the Evertsen. However, it turned out that at both naval and military funerals in Holland only a band of two is allowed. The procession was followed by large number of people as it marched from Victoria Pier to the New Cemetery. short service was conducted at the grave, each of the officers in turn throwing a little earth on the coffin, and the seamen each in turn putting shovelful of earth in the grave After the interment, the men were marched back to Victoria Pier, where they embarked in boats and were conveyed to their vessels.
ENTERTAINING THE OFFICERS.
On Tuesday, the officers of the Evertsen were entertained to luncheon in the Council Chambers by the Magistrates and Town Council. The proceedings were of a private nature. On Tuesday evening Mr J. K. Galloway, viceconsul for the Netherlands, entertained a number of officers at dinner at his residence. On Wednesday morning the Evertsen left Lerwick Harbour shortly after seven o'clock, the band on board playing selection as she proceeded down the harbour.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Orcadian - Saturday 12 August 1905
Dutch Man-of-War's Man Lost at Sea.— The Dutch warship Evertsen arrived in Lerwick harbour on Sunday morning on a cruise in the North Sea. While the vessel was nearing the coast of Shetland early on Sunday morning, one of the crew, named J. Prinz, quartermaster, fell overboard from the forecastle head. Life-buoys were thrown, but the man was not found till after two hours' search, when life was extinct. Deceased was buried in Lerwick New Cemetery on Monday, with naval honours.
Dutch Man-of-War's Man Lost at Sea.— The Dutch warship Evertsen arrived in Lerwick harbour on Sunday morning on a cruise in the North Sea. While the vessel was nearing the coast of Shetland early on Sunday morning, one of the crew, named J. Prinz, quartermaster, fell overboard from the forecastle head. Life-buoys were thrown, but the man was not found till after two hours' search, when life was extinct. Deceased was buried in Lerwick New Cemetery on Monday, with naval honours.
J.Prins Headstone, Lerwick. (Photos: Kevin Thompson)
Accident on HMS Duncan
P.O. William James Pettifer (25/09/1905)
HMS Duncan (1901)
Dundee Courier - Wednesday 27 September 1905
THE CHANNEL FLEET AT LERWICK. FATAL RESULT OF ACCIDENT. The Channel Fleet at Lerwick yesterday was again favoured with beautiful weather, and Lerwick was full of visitors from the outlying districts to see the fleet. On Monday evening a ball was given in the Town Hall by the County and Town Councils to the officers of the fleet. Yesterday 100 marines were landed, and had a sham fight in the hills outside of Lerwick.
In the afternoon the funeral took place a petty officer from the battleship Duncan. It appears that when at Invergordon last week shooting practice took place on board the Duncan with small guns, a charge which left in one of the guns accidentally going off, and injuring two men. One of these was William James Pettifer, belonging to Birmingham, a petty officer of the second class. He received severe injury to the bowels, and died on Monday. The other man is progressing favourably. Pettifer was buried yesterday with full naval honours. About 200 men from the Duncan attended. The funeral was from Victoria Pier to the New Cemetery, and a great crowd of people watched the procession and the service at the grave, the usual three volleys being fired and the "Last Post sounded. A large number of men were ashore last night, and the halls offered for their entertainment were crowded.
THE CHANNEL FLEET AT LERWICK. FATAL RESULT OF ACCIDENT. The Channel Fleet at Lerwick yesterday was again favoured with beautiful weather, and Lerwick was full of visitors from the outlying districts to see the fleet. On Monday evening a ball was given in the Town Hall by the County and Town Councils to the officers of the fleet. Yesterday 100 marines were landed, and had a sham fight in the hills outside of Lerwick.
In the afternoon the funeral took place a petty officer from the battleship Duncan. It appears that when at Invergordon last week shooting practice took place on board the Duncan with small guns, a charge which left in one of the guns accidentally going off, and injuring two men. One of these was William James Pettifer, belonging to Birmingham, a petty officer of the second class. He received severe injury to the bowels, and died on Monday. The other man is progressing favourably. Pettifer was buried yesterday with full naval honours. About 200 men from the Duncan attended. The funeral was from Victoria Pier to the New Cemetery, and a great crowd of people watched the procession and the service at the grave, the usual three volleys being fired and the "Last Post sounded. A large number of men were ashore last night, and the halls offered for their entertainment were crowded.
Shetland Times - Saturday 30 September 1905
DEATH ON BOARD THE DUNCAN—A NAVAL FUNERAL,
On Monday evening, it became known that young second-class petty officer had died on board H.M.S. Duncan, his death being due to injuries received after the ship left Invergordon for Lerwick, and the various crews being engaged in firing drill. The deceased, who was named William John Pettifer, had charge of a six-inch gun, which was being fired with a Morris tube. After cease fire had been given, Pettifer was leaning over the gun. Unfortunately, he had omitted to unload, the charge being still m the breach. By some means or other the charge exploded, and Pettifer was seriously injured in the abdomen, another man being hurt at the same time. Despite medical skill Pettifer gradually sunk until Monday afternoon, when he passed away. The funeral took place, with Naval honours, on Tuesday afternoon. All the ships of the Fleet, the other vessels in port, and the various public buildings in town had their flags flying half mast.
A numerous crowd of people assembled at Victoria Pier. The boats left the Duncan a little before three o’clock, and arrived at the pier shortly after. The coffin, almost covered with wreaths supplied by the ship’s company, was covered the Union Jack. It was lifted from the boat and carried on to a gun carriage, standing on the Esplanade. The funeral cortege formed up, the band taking the lead and the rear being brought up by a contingent of officers. About 200 men were in the procession. As the procession moved off. the band played with great feeling Chopin’s Funeral March. Many in the crowd were visibly effected, not a few the gentler sex giving way to tears.
The company proceeded to Commercial Street thence Queen's Lane, and on to the New Cemetery. Before reaching the cemetery gate, the bearers stepped forward and lifted the coffin to their shoulders. The band ceased playing, and as the bearers approached the gate they were met by the chaplain of the ship, Rev. Augustine R. Price, B.A. All the officers and men uncovered as the body was carried to its last resting place. At the grave side the beautiful and impressive funeral service the Church of England was gone through, the men singing the hymn "Days and moments quickly flying.’’ After the remains had been lowered into the grave the firing party stood forward and fired three volleys, and the bugle sounded the ''last post,” Thereafter the company re-formed, and marched back in quick time, the drums no longer muffled, and the band playing a lively air. All through the proceedings had not merely been impressive but sublime, and the whole community was touched by the burial of this young tar, so far from his native place. Pettifer had just passed his examination as second-class P.O. He was native of Birmingham, and was 22 years of age. Among the funeral company was his brother.
DEATH ON BOARD THE DUNCAN—A NAVAL FUNERAL,
On Monday evening, it became known that young second-class petty officer had died on board H.M.S. Duncan, his death being due to injuries received after the ship left Invergordon for Lerwick, and the various crews being engaged in firing drill. The deceased, who was named William John Pettifer, had charge of a six-inch gun, which was being fired with a Morris tube. After cease fire had been given, Pettifer was leaning over the gun. Unfortunately, he had omitted to unload, the charge being still m the breach. By some means or other the charge exploded, and Pettifer was seriously injured in the abdomen, another man being hurt at the same time. Despite medical skill Pettifer gradually sunk until Monday afternoon, when he passed away. The funeral took place, with Naval honours, on Tuesday afternoon. All the ships of the Fleet, the other vessels in port, and the various public buildings in town had their flags flying half mast.
A numerous crowd of people assembled at Victoria Pier. The boats left the Duncan a little before three o’clock, and arrived at the pier shortly after. The coffin, almost covered with wreaths supplied by the ship’s company, was covered the Union Jack. It was lifted from the boat and carried on to a gun carriage, standing on the Esplanade. The funeral cortege formed up, the band taking the lead and the rear being brought up by a contingent of officers. About 200 men were in the procession. As the procession moved off. the band played with great feeling Chopin’s Funeral March. Many in the crowd were visibly effected, not a few the gentler sex giving way to tears.
The company proceeded to Commercial Street thence Queen's Lane, and on to the New Cemetery. Before reaching the cemetery gate, the bearers stepped forward and lifted the coffin to their shoulders. The band ceased playing, and as the bearers approached the gate they were met by the chaplain of the ship, Rev. Augustine R. Price, B.A. All the officers and men uncovered as the body was carried to its last resting place. At the grave side the beautiful and impressive funeral service the Church of England was gone through, the men singing the hymn "Days and moments quickly flying.’’ After the remains had been lowered into the grave the firing party stood forward and fired three volleys, and the bugle sounded the ''last post,” Thereafter the company re-formed, and marched back in quick time, the drums no longer muffled, and the band playing a lively air. All through the proceedings had not merely been impressive but sublime, and the whole community was touched by the burial of this young tar, so far from his native place. Pettifer had just passed his examination as second-class P.O. He was native of Birmingham, and was 22 years of age. Among the funeral company was his brother.
Hampshire Telegraph - Saturday 07 October 1905
A FUNERAL SERVICE A Naval correspondent writes to the ''Daily Mail'' regarding the collision between the warships Albion and the Duncan at Lerwick, reported yesterday, as follows: *‘Last Tuesday the Albion joined the Fleet, and on anchoring collided with the Duncan, carrying away the latter’s stern-walk and doing other damage besides. The most remarkable feature was that, the very time she struck, the Duncan’s crew were at church, reading the first part of the burial service over the remains petty officer accidentally killed, and the corpse was on the quarter-deck waiting to be lowered into the boat.
A FUNERAL SERVICE A Naval correspondent writes to the ''Daily Mail'' regarding the collision between the warships Albion and the Duncan at Lerwick, reported yesterday, as follows: *‘Last Tuesday the Albion joined the Fleet, and on anchoring collided with the Duncan, carrying away the latter’s stern-walk and doing other damage besides. The most remarkable feature was that, the very time she struck, the Duncan’s crew were at church, reading the first part of the burial service over the remains petty officer accidentally killed, and the corpse was on the quarter-deck waiting to be lowered into the boat.
Funeral of P.O. William J. Pettifer, Lerwick. Shetland Museum Archive.
P.O. William James Pettifer Headstone. Lerwick. (Photos: Kevin Thompson)
Accident on Board H.M.S. Barham
Joseph Lang R.N.R. (10/02/1906)
HMS Barham (1889)
Shetland Times - Saturday 10 February 1906
The Accident on Board H.M.S. Barham. —Joseph Lang, the unfortunate man who met with an accident on board the cruiser Barham, at Lerwick, last week, still lingers in critical condition in the Gilbert Bain Hospital. It seems that Lang had turned in and while reaching across his shipmate he had lost his balance and fell on to the deck alighting on his neck and shoulders. When he was picked up it was found that his spine had been broken close to his neck. He is being carefully attended by the instructing staff at Fort Charlotte, who have watched beside him every night and day since he was landed. Lang, who is a reservist, is an engine-room artificer, and was doing a month’s drill at the time of the accident. He is married, his wife and three children residing in Liverpool.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Accident on Board H.M.S. Barham. —Joseph Lang, the unfortunate man who met with an accident on board the cruiser Barham, at Lerwick, last week, still lingers in critical condition in the Gilbert Bain Hospital. It seems that Lang had turned in and while reaching across his shipmate he had lost his balance and fell on to the deck alighting on his neck and shoulders. When he was picked up it was found that his spine had been broken close to his neck. He is being carefully attended by the instructing staff at Fort Charlotte, who have watched beside him every night and day since he was landed. Lang, who is a reservist, is an engine-room artificer, and was doing a month’s drill at the time of the accident. He is married, his wife and three children residing in Liverpool.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dundee Evening Telegraph - Wednesday 14 February 1906
ARTIFICER DIES AT LERWICK. Lingered Eleven Days with Broken Spine.
An engine-room artificer named Joseph Lang, was landed at Lerwick a fortnight since from the British cruiser Barham. Lang had fallen out of his hammock and broken his spine, and was sent ashore the Gilbert Bain Hospital. poor fellow lingered in awful suffering for eleven days, and died on Saturday evening last. He belonged to Liverpool, where leaves a widow and three children. On Monday his remains were interred at Lerwick, the funeral being naval one. Over 200 Royal Naval Reserve men and the staff from Fort Charlotte accompanied the remains to the New Cemetery.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ARTIFICER DIES AT LERWICK. Lingered Eleven Days with Broken Spine.
An engine-room artificer named Joseph Lang, was landed at Lerwick a fortnight since from the British cruiser Barham. Lang had fallen out of his hammock and broken his spine, and was sent ashore the Gilbert Bain Hospital. poor fellow lingered in awful suffering for eleven days, and died on Saturday evening last. He belonged to Liverpool, where leaves a widow and three children. On Monday his remains were interred at Lerwick, the funeral being naval one. Over 200 Royal Naval Reserve men and the staff from Fort Charlotte accompanied the remains to the New Cemetery.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Shetland Times - Saturday 17 February 1906
Naval Funeral at Lerwick.
On Saturday evening, Joseph Lang, the engine-room artificer from H.M.S. Barham, breathed his last in the Gilbert Bain Hospital, after lingering for ten days from the time of his accident. Deceased was almost conscious to the end, and his brother who had travelled up to Shetland, was beside him when death took place. Everything that kind nursing and medical skill could devise was done to comfort the last hours of the sufferer.
On Monday, arrangements were made to carry out the funeral from St Magnus Church with naval honours. The ceremony was to commence at 2.30 o’clock p.m., and that hour a large company—consisting chiefly ladies —had assembled in the Church. The remains, encased in prettily mounted coffin, occupied a place in front of the pulpit, and was covered with pretty wreaths. Shortly after half-past two the Reserve men present on drill at Fort Charlotte arrived and filed into the church. Lieut. Buckle, R.N., was in command, and Chief Petty Officer H. J. Symes was in charge of the firing party. The beautiful Church of England Service for the Dead was conducted Rev. Mr Hodges, the hymn sung being ‘’Brief Life is here our portion.” The remains were then carried out of the church, the organ playing "I know that Redeemer liveth,” and the vast gathering standing, while the bier passed out. Outside the church a great crowd people had assembled, and those followed the procession all the way to the cemetery.
On being carried outside the church, the coffin was placed on a boat carriage, and draped with the Union Jack, when the Instructing Staff of Fort Charlotte, who acted mourners, lined alongside the bier. The firing party led the cortege, and the men of the Reserve, the number of nearly two hundred, followed at the slow march. It was an impressive sight see the great company moving along, as the youth and strength of the Shetlands paid loyal and dutiful respect to a comrade who had met his death under such tragic circumstances. Slowly the company wended its way to the cemetery, followed by large concourse of people, and at the gate of the cemetery, the body was lifted by the Instructors on to their shoulders, and they reverently carried it down the slope. As the company was met by the clergyman, and the pathetically-solemn part the service was being read, many of the ladies were visibly affected. At the grave the firing party was drawn up, and on the coffin being lowered down, the final words of the service repeated, three volleys were fired, after which Instructor W. Ellen—who acted as bugler—sounded the ‘’Last Post,” and the company turned away leaving their comrade sleeping on the slope over-looking Bressay Sound, where the sigh of the winds and the surge of the sea will sing requiem for this British tar whom the tide an adverse fate had left stranded on our shore.
Naval Funeral at Lerwick.
On Saturday evening, Joseph Lang, the engine-room artificer from H.M.S. Barham, breathed his last in the Gilbert Bain Hospital, after lingering for ten days from the time of his accident. Deceased was almost conscious to the end, and his brother who had travelled up to Shetland, was beside him when death took place. Everything that kind nursing and medical skill could devise was done to comfort the last hours of the sufferer.
On Monday, arrangements were made to carry out the funeral from St Magnus Church with naval honours. The ceremony was to commence at 2.30 o’clock p.m., and that hour a large company—consisting chiefly ladies —had assembled in the Church. The remains, encased in prettily mounted coffin, occupied a place in front of the pulpit, and was covered with pretty wreaths. Shortly after half-past two the Reserve men present on drill at Fort Charlotte arrived and filed into the church. Lieut. Buckle, R.N., was in command, and Chief Petty Officer H. J. Symes was in charge of the firing party. The beautiful Church of England Service for the Dead was conducted Rev. Mr Hodges, the hymn sung being ‘’Brief Life is here our portion.” The remains were then carried out of the church, the organ playing "I know that Redeemer liveth,” and the vast gathering standing, while the bier passed out. Outside the church a great crowd people had assembled, and those followed the procession all the way to the cemetery.
On being carried outside the church, the coffin was placed on a boat carriage, and draped with the Union Jack, when the Instructing Staff of Fort Charlotte, who acted mourners, lined alongside the bier. The firing party led the cortege, and the men of the Reserve, the number of nearly two hundred, followed at the slow march. It was an impressive sight see the great company moving along, as the youth and strength of the Shetlands paid loyal and dutiful respect to a comrade who had met his death under such tragic circumstances. Slowly the company wended its way to the cemetery, followed by large concourse of people, and at the gate of the cemetery, the body was lifted by the Instructors on to their shoulders, and they reverently carried it down the slope. As the company was met by the clergyman, and the pathetically-solemn part the service was being read, many of the ladies were visibly affected. At the grave the firing party was drawn up, and on the coffin being lowered down, the final words of the service repeated, three volleys were fired, after which Instructor W. Ellen—who acted as bugler—sounded the ‘’Last Post,” and the company turned away leaving their comrade sleeping on the slope over-looking Bressay Sound, where the sigh of the winds and the surge of the sea will sing requiem for this British tar whom the tide an adverse fate had left stranded on our shore.
Naval Reservist Found Drowned At Lerwick
Andrew Mouat R.N.R (27/12/1908)
Shetland Times - Saturday 02 January 1909
Disappearance of a Shetland Seaman. Peculiar circumstances attend the disappearance of Andrew Monet. seaman, a native of North Delting. who was on drill at Fort Charlotte for three weeks past. Mouat, who was lodging in High Street. was on drill on Saturday, and on Sunday evening he left the house where he resided, stating that he would he back to tea in a few minutes. He did not return. however, and since Sunday evening he has not been heard of. The matter was reported to the police. and on enquiries being made, it was found that he had not gone to his home in Delting, where it was thought be might have gone. He was last seen on Commercial Road on Sunday evening proceeding north along the road. Considerable anxiety is felt as to the safety of Mouat. He was a middle aged man. unmarried, and had only about a week's drill to put in at Fort Charlotte. The police continue to make enquiries as to Mouat's whereabouts.
Dundee Courier - Monday 04 January 1909
R.N.R. MAN DISAPPEARS AND IS FOUND DROWNED.
Andrew Mouat. middle-aged man, belonging Delting, Shetland, a Royal Naval Reserve man, during his training at Lerwick, left his lodgings on Sunday week, and did not return. His body was found floating at Freefield Dock yesterday afternoon.
R.N.R. MAN DISAPPEARS AND IS FOUND DROWNED.
Andrew Mouat. middle-aged man, belonging Delting, Shetland, a Royal Naval Reserve man, during his training at Lerwick, left his lodgings on Sunday week, and did not return. His body was found floating at Freefield Dock yesterday afternoon.
Aberdeen Press and Journal - Monday 04 January 1909
NAVAL RESERVIST FOUND DROWNED AT LERWICK.
The body of a missing Royal Navy Reserve man named Andrew Mouat, belonging to North Deltang was found at Hay Dock, Lerwick, on Saturday afternoon. Mouat had been missing since Sunday, and nothing had been heard of him until his body was found. He was a middle-aged man, unmarried and his occupation was that of a seaman
NAVAL RESERVIST FOUND DROWNED AT LERWICK.
The body of a missing Royal Navy Reserve man named Andrew Mouat, belonging to North Deltang was found at Hay Dock, Lerwick, on Saturday afternoon. Mouat had been missing since Sunday, and nothing had been heard of him until his body was found. He was a middle-aged man, unmarried and his occupation was that of a seaman
Shetland Times - Saturday 09 January 1909
The Missing Shetland Seaman.
BODY FOUND AT FREEFIELD DOCKS.
On Saturday last the body of Andrew Mouat. seaman. North Delting. who went missing at Lerwick on Sunday last. was found in the sea at Freefield Docks. The discovery was made by John Manson. a labourer. residing at North Roadside, who seeing the body lying at the bottom of the sea at the corner opposite the old Fish Market. secured a boat book and had it landed at the slip. Oa examination it was found to be that of Andrew Mouat, the seaman who had mysteriously disappeared. There were no marks upon the body, and the remains were removed by the police to the mortuary. It will be remembered that on Sunday 27th December, deceased left his lodgings in High Street stating that he would return in a few minutes. He, however, did not come back, and enquiries as to his whereabouts failed to find him out. He was last seen on Commercial Road but how he came to Freefield Docks and met with so tragic an end is unknown. Deceased was unmarried, and resided at Mossbank. Deceased's brother, who was in Lerwick in the beginning of this week had the body removed to North Delting on Tuesday morning, where it was buried in Mossbank Churchyard.
The Missing Shetland Seaman.
BODY FOUND AT FREEFIELD DOCKS.
On Saturday last the body of Andrew Mouat. seaman. North Delting. who went missing at Lerwick on Sunday last. was found in the sea at Freefield Docks. The discovery was made by John Manson. a labourer. residing at North Roadside, who seeing the body lying at the bottom of the sea at the corner opposite the old Fish Market. secured a boat book and had it landed at the slip. Oa examination it was found to be that of Andrew Mouat, the seaman who had mysteriously disappeared. There were no marks upon the body, and the remains were removed by the police to the mortuary. It will be remembered that on Sunday 27th December, deceased left his lodgings in High Street stating that he would return in a few minutes. He, however, did not come back, and enquiries as to his whereabouts failed to find him out. He was last seen on Commercial Road but how he came to Freefield Docks and met with so tragic an end is unknown. Deceased was unmarried, and resided at Mossbank. Deceased's brother, who was in Lerwick in the beginning of this week had the body removed to North Delting on Tuesday morning, where it was buried in Mossbank Churchyard.
Stoker Falls Overboard
Stoker Thomas Williams (16/09/1911)
HMS Amazon (1908)
Shetland Times - Saturday 23 September 1911
STOKER DROWNED. On Saturday last while H.M. torpedo boat destroyer Amazon lay off Sandsting a stoker named Thomas Williams fell overboard and was drowned. It is not known how the accident occurred. It appears that Williams was engaged between 8 and 9 o'clock in washing the deck, and presumably overbalanced while filling his bucket. There were several men on deck at that time, but the incident was not noticed by any of them.
STOKER DROWNED. On Saturday last while H.M. torpedo boat destroyer Amazon lay off Sandsting a stoker named Thomas Williams fell overboard and was drowned. It is not known how the accident occurred. It appears that Williams was engaged between 8 and 9 o'clock in washing the deck, and presumably overbalanced while filling his bucket. There were several men on deck at that time, but the incident was not noticed by any of them.
Orkney Herald, and Weekly Advertiser and Gazette for the Orkney & Zetland Islands - Wednesday 27 September 1911
WARSHIPS AT SHETLAND-STOKER DROWNED. The cruiser Blanche and destroyer Mohawk, of the First Flotilla, arrived at Lerwick on the 16th inst. They left the following morning, and cruised along the islands as far an Balta sound, returning to Lerwick in the afternoon. They were then joined by the destroyer Amazon, which had been cruising on the west side of Shetland, and the three vessels left in the evening. The Amazon reported that on the evening of the 16th, a stoker named Thomas Williams, who had been engaged in washing the deck, fell overboard and was drowned.
WARSHIPS AT SHETLAND-STOKER DROWNED. The cruiser Blanche and destroyer Mohawk, of the First Flotilla, arrived at Lerwick on the 16th inst. They left the following morning, and cruised along the islands as far an Balta sound, returning to Lerwick in the afternoon. They were then joined by the destroyer Amazon, which had been cruising on the west side of Shetland, and the three vessels left in the evening. The Amazon reported that on the evening of the 16th, a stoker named Thomas Williams, who had been engaged in washing the deck, fell overboard and was drowned.
Hull Fisherman Drowned
Thomas Craven R.N.R (07/11/1914)
Hull Daily Mail - Monday 23 November 1914
Hull Fisherman Drowned
Hull Fisherman Drowned
News had been received that Mr Thomas Craven, of the armed trawler Viola, fell overboard and was drowned. In conveying the sad news, the naval authorities state that arrangements were made give Mr Craven a naval funeral which took place at Lerwick last Monday. The trawler is one of the fleet belonging to Hellyer, of Hull, and Mr Craven was in their employ as a boatswain. He was unmarried, lodging with Mrs Phillips, 2 Eastbourne-street was well known on the Hull fish stage.
Thomas Craven Headstone, Lerwick. (Photo: Kevin Thompson)
Leading Stoker Albert Scawn, (29/05/1916)
HMS Lively (1901)
Dundee Evening Telegraph - Friday 21 July 1916
BRAVE ACTIONS IN SCOTLAND. Recognised by Royal Humane Society. Having completed their investigation of nearly 100 cases of brave action in saving or attempting to save life, the committee of the Royal Humane Society have issued their list awards for the month, which contains the following cases from Scotland: Bronze medal to W. C. Howard, stoker on one of H.M. ships, for gallantly attempting to save a comrade who fell overboard at Gartho Voe, Shetland, on May 29.
BRAVE ACTIONS IN SCOTLAND. Recognised by Royal Humane Society. Having completed their investigation of nearly 100 cases of brave action in saving or attempting to save life, the committee of the Royal Humane Society have issued their list awards for the month, which contains the following cases from Scotland: Bronze medal to W. C. Howard, stoker on one of H.M. ships, for gallantly attempting to save a comrade who fell overboard at Gartho Voe, Shetland, on May 29.
Case number: 42466
RHS Report: 1916
On the 29th May 1916, a man fell overboard from his ship in Gartha Voe, Shetland Isles. Howard jumped in but was clutched and failed to effect his rescue.
On the 29th May 1916, a man fell overboard from his ship in Gartha Voe, Shetland Isles. Howard jumped in but was clutched and failed to effect his rescue.
Footnote: It is probable the lost sailor was Albert Scawn, Leading Stoker, 311032 (Ch) of HMS Lively
Seaman George Leask, (17/02/1917)
While visiting the Lerwick Museum and Archive, Shetland a Memorial Plaque (Death Penny) was seen in the World War One display cabinet. The plaque was to the memory of George Leask RNR.
Seaman Leask 2601C RNR was onboard the Escort Trawler HMT Hawk escorting a convoy in the Mediterranean. On the 17th February 1917, 140 miles south east of Malta HMT Hawk was torpedoed by U64 (Kapitänleutnant Robert Moraht). The trawler sank with the loss of 7 crew. George's body was not recovered and he is remembered on the Portsmouth Memorial.
Seaman Leask 2601C RNR was onboard the Escort Trawler HMT Hawk escorting a convoy in the Mediterranean. On the 17th February 1917, 140 miles south east of Malta HMT Hawk was torpedoed by U64 (Kapitänleutnant Robert Moraht). The trawler sank with the loss of 7 crew. George's body was not recovered and he is remembered on the Portsmouth Memorial.
George Leask Memorial Plaque in Lerwick Museum.
