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England (Counties as in 1851-1901) => England => Durham => Topic started by: Ryhopelad on Saturday 19 April 08 21:06 BST (UK)

Title: Deaths in Sunderland Shipyards
Post by: Ryhopelad on Saturday 19 April 08 21:06 BST (UK)
I would like to contact anyone who has lost relations through accidents which occurred in the shipyards of the River Wear, Sunderland.
No records exist of the men and boys who died in such tragic circumstances while working in terrible conditions. Looking for any information which would help my research.
There isn't a memorial to those who lost their lives but if my research proves popular I would like to set up a fund to provide a fitting memorial to those who died.   
An article on this subject can be seen in the Sunderland Echo dated 17th April 2008.

Ryhopelad
Title: Re: Deaths in Sunderland Shipyards
Post by: gilbert scott on Wednesday 14 May 08 11:25 BST (UK)
Hi i had some one working in the ship yards & died between 1894 -96 but dont know how & can not find a thing about him,
 gilbert
Title: Re: Deaths in Sunderland Shipyards
Post by: Ryhopelad on Wednesday 14 May 08 18:05 BST (UK)
Hello Gilbert

If you give me the name of the person killed I will check my records and see what information is available.

Ryhopelad
Title: Re: Deaths in Sunderland Shipyards
Post by: gilbert scott on Wednesday 14 May 08 20:25 BST (UK)
Hi his name was alfred lee kilburn born 1866 in sunderland he married 21/12 1891 he was i rivetter in the ship yards he had 2 children 1892 /1894 his wife remarried 21/12/1896 down as widow so he died between the dates of the children born and when she remarried,

 gilbert
Title: Re: Deaths in Sunderland Shipyards
Post by: sillgen on Wednesday 14 May 08 21:04 BST (UK)
There were many  accidents in those days.  My ancestor died at Palmer's yard in Jarrow when a piece of ironstone fell out of a bucket above him and hit his head.
Gilbert - have you checked the GRO death index to see if you can find him?  He is not on FreeBMD but should be in the full index.
Andrea
Title: Re: Deaths in Sunderland Shipyards
Post by: gilbert scott on Thursday 15 May 08 12:58 BST (UK)
Hi have been all over the place but nothing,

  thanks gilbert
Title: Re: Deaths in Sunderland Shipyards
Post by: sillgen on Thursday 15 May 08 17:32 BST (UK)
How annoying that he is so elusive.  I had not realised there were so many possible ways of spelling his name too.  Kilborn/Kilbourn/Kilburn then all with an e on the end and all with double ll too.   I suppose one avenue to explore might be the local paper as there may be a death notice.
Andrea
Title: Re: Deaths in Sunderland Shipyards
Post by: Ryhopelad on Thursday 15 May 08 18:59 BST (UK)
Gilbert

Have searched my records with no success, have extensively researched the local papers for the years in question. There is a possibility I may have missed the report, will recheck the time period and get back to you if I find anything. It will take a little time.
If you do find his death could you please let me know.

Ryhopelad   
Title: Re: Deaths in Sunderland Shipyards
Post by: Ryhopelad on Thursday 15 May 08 20:16 BST (UK)
Gilbert

Will check cemetery records this weekend, easier than trawling the papers.

Ryhopelad
Title: Re: Deaths in Sunderland Shipyards
Post by: Ryhopelad on Sunday 18 May 08 19:59 BST (UK)
Gilbert

Checked Bishopwearmouth, Mere Knoll, Sunderland & Southwick cemeteries between the dates 1893 - 1896 (inc.) and found no evidence of Alfred Lee Kilburn being buried.

Ryhopelad 
Title: Re: Deaths in Sunderland Shipyards
Post by: FrankE on Friday 23 May 08 15:43 BST (UK)
A relative of mine (I'd have to look up the actual relationship) was killed in May 1901 at Bartrams shipyard.
The death notice in the Sunderland Daily Echo read:-

"ERSKINE - At the Infirmary on the 25th inst. (through an accident while following employment as Shipwright at Messrs Bartram & Sons) aged 21 years, William, the dearly loved husband of Isabella Erskine".

Sadly he didn't live to see the birth of his son William the following February. In fact he'd only been married on 8th April :(
Title: Re: Deaths in Sunderland Shipyards
Post by: Ryhopelad on Sunday 25 May 08 20:16 BST (UK)
Thanks for the information on William Erskine, I have the report of the accident from the Echo, but not the death announcement.

In my records I have an accident report (small paragraph) on the death of a rigger Andrew Erskine (1795 - 1852) killed at Johnston's shipyard at Hylton. Do you know if there is a connection between Andrew & William, grateful if you could let me know.

Ryhopelad
Title: Re: Deaths in Sunderland Shipyards
Post by: FrankE on Monday 26 May 08 08:21 BST (UK)
Thanks for the information on William Erskine, I have the report of the accident from the Echo, but not the death announcement.

In my records I have an accident report (small paragraph) on the death of a rigger Andrew Erskine (1795 - 1852) killed at Johnston's shipyard at Hylton. Do you know if there is a connection between Andrew & William, grateful if you could let me know.

Ryhopelad

OK - Andrew was a great great uncle of William. Their common ancestor was William Erskine (1752-1816) (with his wife Jane (Anderson)) (whose gravestone is at Sunderland parish churchyard).
If you care to go to email I'll let your know details of dates/families and so on.

I didn't know any details of the death of Andrew (apart from the date, all I had was that he was 'accidentally killed'.

Regards -
Title: Re: Deaths in Sunderland Shipyards
Post by: Dumpling on Thursday 05 June 08 16:03 BST (UK)
I have been looking for information about George Metcalf Taylor, a mariner apparently died in a shipyard accident, possibly the Deptford Yard. (I'm not sure if that is the correct spelling). He was born in Sunderland in 1852 , married to Sarah Ann Martin and had 10 children all in Sunderland. The only death I can find was in 1895 in Greenwich.
In the 1901 census, his daughter Georgina is found at the Sailors' Orphan Girls Home and School in Hampstead.

Any help appreciated.
Joan
Title: Re: Deaths in Sunderland Shipyards
Post by: Ryhopelad on Thursday 05 June 08 21:02 BST (UK)
Hello Joan

Have checked my records and have nothing on the death of George Metcalf Taylor. It is possible you have the wrong Deptford which is understandable with the family coming from Sunderland.

There was a Royal Dockyard in Deptford London and I think this could well be where George worked which fits in with the death you found. Quite a number of shipyard workers did go to work there taking their families with them. This would be at a time when there was not enough work on the River Wear. Some returned home when the ships the Navy required were finished.

Looking at the death details on FreeBMD this does look like your George (year of birth 1852) especially with his daughter being found in an orphanage in that area.

In case I am on the wrong track I will keep your information on record and if I do find anything will get back to you.

Best wishes

Ryhopelad
 
Title: Re: Deaths in Sunderland Shipyards
Post by: Dumpling on Thursday 05 June 08 21:07 BST (UK)
Thanks for having a look.

Joan

Title: Re: Deaths in Sunderland Shipyards
Post by: norstayl on Monday 22 February 10 16:35 GMT (UK)
I have just stumbled across this subject on Roots Chat, asking for info on accidents in shipyards which I have, but don't know if you are still interested , as this is an old message from 2008.
I will foreward the name & year of my g uncles death,and you can let me know if you want more info : Doxford Shipyard  Dec 17th 1895 Ralph Davison died in a horrendous accident aged 28 he left a wife & 3 children         
I have the report of the accident in detail.
get in touch if need be.
Cheers Norma
I would like to contact anyone who has lost relations through accidents which occurred in the shipyards of the River Wear, Sunderland.
No records exist of the men and boys who died in such tragic circumstances while working in terrible conditions. Looking for any information which would help my research.
There isn't a memorial to those who lost their lives but if my research proves popular I would like to set up a fund to provide a fitting memorial to those who died.   
An article on this subject can be seen in the Sunderland Echo dated 17th April 2008.

Ryhopelad
Title: Re: Deaths in Sunderland Shipyards
Post by: Middx on Friday 26 February 10 00:53 GMT (UK)
Like the last post, I have just come across this old thread. My great grandfather George BURN, a shipyard rivetter died aged 35 as a result of "Accidentally injured by falling from deck of new ship to ground in Robert Thompson and Sons shipbuilding yard Southwick   through overbalancing himself" - from death cert 13 March 1906, after an inquest

Interestingly perhaps, the last clause appears to have bene added as an afterthought!

Middx
Title: Re: Deaths in Sunderland Shipyards
Post by: OzLamb on Friday 24 February 12 12:00 GMT (UK)
My Great Grandfather John Lamb was injured in the Pickersgill Shipyard accident of 22 July 1926.  Suffered concussion but didn't seek medical attention and remained ill until his death in 1935.  A gangway collapsed on the SS Cairnglen killing Frederick Crossley Eggleston, Robert Galloway and William Young.  Article in Sundeland Echo from 23 July 2008 by Sarah Stoner about this accident.
Title: Re: Deaths in Sunderland Shipyards
Post by: Hezekiah on Tuesday 08 January 13 14:03 GMT (UK)
Hi Ryhopelad

My Great grandfather - "Thomas Francis Wager" was killed in a Sunderland Shipyard in 1908 aged about 40 - I cannot find any details - what yard? - how he died etc - His wife was Ada Wager

His children were Reuben, Ruth, Olive, Thomas, Violet, William (decd 1904), and Ada.

I would be extremely grateful for any info. He had moved from Hartlepool just before the accident that caused his death.

Title: Re: Deaths in Sunderland Shipyards
Post by: Hezekiah on Tuesday 08 January 13 14:07 GMT (UK)
Hi Ryhopelad

My Great grandfather - "Thomas Francis Wager" was killed in a Sunderland Shipyard in 1908 aged about 40 - I cannot find any details - what yard? - how he died etc - His wife was Ada Wager

His children were Reuben, Ruth, Olive, Thomas, Violet, William (decd 1904), and Ada.

I would be extremely grateful for any info. He had moved from Hartlepool just before the accident that caused his death.
Title: Re: Deaths in Sunderland Shipyards
Post by: Ryhopelad on Tuesday 08 January 13 20:08 GMT (UK)
Hello Hezekiah

Have checked my records and can find no report of the death of Thomas F. Wager in a shipyard accident. It is possible I may have missed the report, have found the date of his death 15th December 1908, will check in library tomorrow to see if I can find anything.

Best wishes

Ryhopelad
Title: Re: Deaths in Sunderland Shipyards
Post by: Hezekiah on Tuesday 08 January 13 21:46 GMT (UK)
Thanks RL appreciate your help -
Title: Re: Deaths in Sunderland Shipyards
Post by: Ryhopelad on Wednesday 09 January 13 18:52 GMT (UK)
Hello Hezekiah

Checked the local newspaper around the time of the death Of Thomas and could not find anything relating to him. Do you have any details on where he was buried, possible headstone may give some information.  Have checked the four main cemeteries for Sunderland (Sunderland Cemetery, Bishopwearmouth Cemetery, Mere Knoll Cemetery and Southwick Cemetery) , but I could not find a burial record for him.
As the condition of the microfilms of the newspaper are not very good, will take another look just in case I missed the report.
Will get back to you.
Best wishes
Ryhopelad
Title: Re: Deaths in Sunderland Shipyards
Post by: Hezekiah on Wednesday 09 January 13 20:12 GMT (UK)
Thank you so much for all your hard work - I don't have any more info about Thomas - I doubt the family were able to afford a burial/gravestone. In 1901 they lived in Hartlepool; their youngest child ADA was born in Hartlepool in 1905. The move to Sunderland must have been between 1905 and 1908.

The only other thing I know is that in 1910 Ada was remarried to James Errington. The now Errington family's address in the 1911 census was 50 Wellington Lane, Deptford -


Thomas's father was Hezekiah Wager a mariner who it is thought was lost at sea in 1899. His mother Ruth died in 1933 They lived in Hartlepool.


Title: Re: Deaths in Sunderland Shipyards
Post by: Ryhopelad on Tuesday 15 January 13 13:51 GMT (UK)
Hello Hezekiah

Sorry to say have come up with no information on the death of Thomas, also double checked cemetery records with no luck. It is possible his body may have been returned to Hartlepool for burial if this was his home town . You could try burial records for Hartlepool if you live in the area or try another post to see if someone from the area can help you. As for him being killed in the shipyard there is only his death certificate which would provide any information. There are no records available of deaths in the shipyards of Sunderland and I have to rely on newspaper reports and other researchers like yourself who kindly contact me with information.
Will keep your name on file and if anything does turn up I will get back to you. If you do find any further information on Thomas would you please contact me. If there is some evidence that he was killed in a shipyard accident I would like him to be included so he can be remembered with the others who tragically died in the shipyards on the River Wear.

Ryhopelad
Title: Re: Deaths in Sunderland Shipyards
Post by: Hezekiah on Thursday 17 January 13 18:42 GMT (UK)
Thanks for your research RL - I might just try to buy the DC - will let you know what I find.

Hez
Title: Re: Deaths in Sunderland Shipyards
Post by: Al1B on Wednesday 23 October 13 13:02 BST (UK)
Hi
I am new to family history research and have very limited info as my grandfather doesn't have exact details as he was so young when both his parents died. His father died in a Sunderland shipyard accident when he was about 3, which puts the year at 1923 or possibly 1924. All I know is it was autumn/winter months becuase he slipped on ice and it had been a frosty morning. He slipped and fell on metal girders (?) His surname was Harper and first name possibly John (guess?) (his wife Edith had already died), so he left behind his mother Margaret Harper and his son John Wilson Harper.

Have you come across his in your shipyard research?

I would be fascinated to learn more if you have.
Kind regards
Alison
Title: Re: Deaths in Sunderland Shipyards
Post by: taffie01 on Wednesday 23 October 13 19:44 BST (UK)
Hi and welcome to rootschat,
i have found a marriage for a John J Harper to Edith Mowbray  O/N/D quarter 1919 at Hartlepool. is this your family?  this would tie in with a possible age of 3 around 1923 for grandfather. I will search further to try and help.
taffie
Title: Re: Deaths in Sunderland Shipyards
Post by: taffie01 on Wednesday 23 October 13 20:01 BST (UK)
hi Al1B,
this looks more likely, :)
 marriage;    John J Harper to Edith Hudson j/f/m quarter 1919 at Sunderland.
birth;      John W Harper  a/m/j quarter 1920 at Sunderland Mothers maiden name Hudson.
will try to find shipyard death info.
taffie
Title: Re: Deaths in Sunderland Shipyards
Post by: taffie01 on Wednesday 23 October 13 20:25 BST (UK)
hi,
 not having much luck with newspaper search but have found a possible death for Edith.
Edith Harper aged 27 died a/m/j/  1920 Sunderland. Looks like poss result of childbirth, how sad to be an orphan at  age of  3. :(
sorry will have to go now, good luck with search.
Title: Re: Deaths in Sunderland Shipyards
Post by: Ryhopelad on Wednesday 23 October 13 21:04 BST (UK)
Hello Allison
Have checked my records and unfortunately I do not have a death in a Sunderland shipyard for a Harper. Looking at my notes there is a possibility I may have missed this accident as the microfilm of the Sunderland Echo I was using for that time period was damaged. Will be going to the Sunderland library tomorrow (23rd) will speak to one of the librarians to see if they can help.
Can tell you that there is a John Wilson Harper aged 30 buried in Bishopwearmouth Cemetery in the April of 1924.
Will also check the burial and get back to you.
Best wishes

Ryhopelad
Title: Re: Deaths in Sunderland Shipyards
Post by: Al1B on Wednesday 23 October 13 21:40 BST (UK)
Dear taffie01 and ryhopelad

Thank you for your interest and help  :)

re: Edith Harper aged 27 died a/m/j/  1920 Sunderland.
That is almost certainly my Great Grandmother - she died within a week or two of my grandad being born in May 1920.

And  marriage;    John J Harper to Edith Hudson j/f/m quarter 1919 at Sunderland.
birth;      John W Harper  a/m/j quarter 1920 at Sunderland Mothers maiden name Hudson.

This seems to tie in with the dates I know.

Well, it is interesting re the John Wilson Harper in Bishopswearmouth cemetery, as that is my grandad's name and that is unusual, but he was born in 1920 and still alive! Being so young when his parents died he has very little info. Luckily he was brought up by his grandmother.

It is a sad story, and would really like to fit the puzzle together, and he would love to know more too.

Thank you :)

Title: Re: Deaths in Sunderland Shipyards
Post by: HyltonMackem on Monday 20 March 17 12:11 GMT (UK)
Hi

Long shot but I believe my GGranda was killed on Boxing Day in either 1920 or 1926 at one of the Pallion Yards. The story goes that his coat got caught in machinery and pulled him in but I don't know how true that is
His name was George Payne originally from Whitstable in Kent
Would you be able to see if you can find anything about him please
Title: Re: Deaths in Sunderland Shipyards
Post by: Ryhopelad on Monday 20 March 17 18:31 GMT (UK)
Hello HyltonMackem

Have checked my records for George Payne without any luck, not only for his death but also whether he had an accident in a shipyard. 

Have found a death in the September Q 1921 for a George Payne aged 86 years, who is buried in Bishopwearmouth Cemetery. This is the only death entry I can find between 1911 & 1930 so it is most likely your GGrandfather.

I am not going to the library until Wednesday, will check the burial details then look to find any information in the Echo. If this is him I must say it will be most unlikely he was working in a shipyard at the age of 86 but you never know.

Will get back to you Wednesday evening hopefully with some information.

Ryhopelad
Title: Re: Deaths in Sunderland Shipyards
Post by: HyltonMackem on Tuesday 21 March 17 16:34 GMT (UK)
Thanks RyhopeLad
Title: Re: Deaths in Sunderland Shipyards
Post by: Mofamily on Wednesday 22 March 17 12:51 GMT (UK)
I would like to contact anyone who has lost relations through accidents which occurred in the shipyards of the River Wear, Sunderland.
No records exist of the men and boys who died in such tragic circumstances while working in terrible conditions. Looking for any information which would help my research.
There isn't a memorial to those who lost their lives but if my research proves popular I would like to set up a fund to provide a fitting memorial to those who died.   
An article on this subject can be seen in the Sunderland Echo dated 17th April 2008.

Ryhopelad

My g. g. granddad was witness to a fatal accident at Pallion Shipyard.  The deceased was a William Martin.  The Inquest appears in the Sunderland Echo 25 August 1884.

Hope this helps.

Mo
Title: Re: Deaths in Sunderland Shipyards
Post by: Ryhopelad on Wednesday 22 March 17 17:59 GMT (UK)
Hello Mo

Thanks for contacting me regarding the accident in which your G G Grandfather was a witness. I do have this information, can you confirm for me that the information concerning your G G Grandfather  is correct.
Christopher Houburn of Dove Street, Pallion.

Once again thanks

Ryhopelad

Title: Re: Deaths in Sunderland Shipyards
Post by: Ryhopelad on Wednesday 22 March 17 19:25 GMT (UK)
Hello HyltonMackem

Have the details of George's burial, he was buried 14th July 1921 in Bishopwearmouth Cemetery his occupation is given as a Mariner and sadly he died in the Workhouse aged 86 years.
Checked the Sunderland Echo from 7th July to 18th July for any accident or an inquest report with no luck. Passing away in the Workhouse there would not be money to place a Death Announcement in the newspaper but I still checked.
Even giving his employment as a Mariner he still could have been employed in one of the shipyards, his death could still be related to an accident which occurred some years previous and one which I may have missed.
If you want to solve this it will most likely mean purchasing the death certificate, the cost of the certificate is £10. You can phone Customer Service on 0191 5205555 and give them the details of when he died (July 1921) and they will post a copy out to you. If you live local go to the Customer Service Dept. the library building in Fawcett Street. You can usually order them online but have just checked the site and this service is not available as they are currently unable to take any payments.
If you require any more help please let me know and I will see What I can do.

Ryhopelad
Title: Re: Deaths in Sunderland Shipyards
Post by: Mofamily on Thursday 23 March 17 12:21 GMT (UK)
Hello Mo

Thanks for contacting me regarding the accident in which your G G Grandfather was a witness. I do have this information, can you confirm for me that the information concerning your G G Grandfather  is correct.
Christopher Houburn of Dove Street, Pallion.

Once again thanks

Ryhopelad

Hi

It is Christopher Holburn of 20 Dove Street, Pallion.

Mo
Title: Re: Deaths in Sunderland Shipyards
Post by: Ryhopelad on Thursday 23 March 17 17:40 GMT (UK)
Hello Mo

Was not sure about the surname, those early newspapers are difficult to read at times.

Thanks

Ryhopelad
Title: Re: Deaths in Sunderland Shipyards
Post by: Smudger1962 on Sunday 30 April 17 13:01 BST (UK)
Hi

I just came across this post and it struck a chord. My Great Grandfather, George Howe died in a shipyard accident 26 August? 1893. He was living in Peacock street Pallion at the time. My Grandmother was about 8 days old. She used to tell a tale that her mother told her. She said that she was watching the men bring a covered body up the road on a hand cart, and commented about some "poor soul", not realising that they were bringing him home to her.

On all of the records I have except the last one, the 1891 census, George had been a Joiner, on the 1891 census his job had changed to driller and I often wonder if this contributed to his death, but I have no information on how he died.

If you have come across George during your research I would be very interested to hear.

Best Regards Ian
Title: Re: Deaths in Sunderland Shipyards
Post by: Ryhopelad on Sunday 30 April 17 18:21 BST (UK)
Hello Ian

I do have the information concerning your Great Grandfather's tragic death on the 26th August 1893. There is a brief report about the accident, the inquest as well as a Death Announcement all of which appeared in the Sunderland Echo.
Will send you a message giving my email address, if you let me know yours I would be more than willing to forward all the information I have.

Ryhopelad
Title: Re: Deaths in Sunderland Shipyards
Post by: Smudger1962 on Sunday 30 April 17 18:49 BST (UK)
Great news Thanks.

I've sent you my details as requested.
Title: Re: Deaths in Sunderland Shipyards
Post by: Jenregan on Monday 20 January 20 01:51 GMT (UK)
I was wondering if you have any information on my mother’s father, last name “SIMPSON” first name Harry Harold or Henry who was killed while working at Thomson Shipyard. She was only 3 yrs old at the time and she was born in 1947. His wife, Mary Ann Simpson was pregnant at the time with their second child. They lived in Southwick on Old Mill Road.
From what I understand, he was hit by a crane and later died in the hospital due to internal injuries.

Thank you for your work
Title: Re: Deaths in Sunderland Shipyards
Post by: Ryhopelad on Monday 20 January 20 18:47 GMT (UK)
I have the information you require on Henry Simpson who tragically died on the 14th March 1951. Henry was working at Sir James Laing's Shipyard, Deptford when he was struck by planks which fell from a crane which was being used to lift them into position. 

Will contact you by personal message with my email address and if you can forward yours to me I will be only to pleased to forward the information I have.

Ryhopelad
Title: Re: Deaths in Sunderland Shipyards
Post by: Jenregan on Monday 20 January 20 21:25 GMT (UK)
I am extremely grateful for this information, as is my Mam and uncle who sadly never knew his Dad. Looking at the date of death, it was just two days before my Nana’s (his wife’s birthday). How hard it must have been. I have a picture of him and knew that he was a quite but kind man and he often played the piano at a pub, that’s really all I had so this means so much.

Thank you for this information. I will forward to you my email.
 
Title: Re: Deaths in Sunderland Shipyards
Post by: willsy on Friday 24 January 20 20:35 GMT (UK)
Am just starting to look more into my husbands family and came across the death of Joseph Blacklock/Blakelock as reported in the Sunderland Daily Echo May 20 1878. I have found the newspaper with the report of his death and have his burial records if you need them.

If you have anymore information that would be great.
Title: Re: Deaths in Sunderland Shipyards
Post by: Ryhopelad on Thursday 30 January 20 18:25 GMT (UK)
Thanks for your message concerning the death of Joseph Blacklock, I have a copy of the report in my records and have been considering for some time whether to include it in my research. My reason for this is the accident concerning Joseph the vessel he was working on had come into port to load and unload cargo and has such is not a shipyard related death. I have no other information on Joseph but if I can help in any way please get in touch.

Thanks again

Ryhopelad 
Title: Re: Deaths in Sunderland Shipyards
Post by: willsy on Thursday 30 January 20 19:54 GMT (UK)
Hello Ryhopelad

Thanks for your reply, I nearly didn't post having wondered about it being on the boat and am just starting to look at the possible family link. Still baby steps so far with the family so thank you for your offer of help, this family had some deaths at sea so new territory for me as I am used to shoemakers and FWK.

One thing I have noticed that differs from my burials in Leicester is that a few of the men are buried on there own, including Joseph, despite being married, have you come across this in the cemetery records?

Title: Re: Deaths in Sunderland Shipyards
Post by: Ryhopelad on Tuesday 04 February 20 19:09 GMT (UK)
Hello willsy

Regarding a husband & wife being buried in different plots I have come across this on a number of occasions. This could come down to being unable to afford to purchase a plot for a number of family burials so as they died they were buried in the next available plot. In the case of my own grandparents on my mam's side they were buried in different cemeteries, even though they were living in Monkwearmouth when he died my grandfather was buried in Sunderland Cemetery and then my grandmother was buried in Mere Knolls Cemetery, Monkwearmouth. As they did not purchase the plot my grandfather was buried in when my grandmother died there was no available space for her to be buried with him as other burials had already taken place. A family member did recall that it was my grandmother's family (her brothers & sisters) who made the decision to have her buried in Mere Knolls as they paid the costs of the funeral and this was also where other members of her family had been buried. How far it is true I cannot say for certain.

Ryhopelad
Title: Re: Deaths in Sunderland Shipyards
Post by: willsy on Tuesday 04 February 20 20:12 GMT (UK)
Thanks Ryhopelad

The later burials I have, have helped me no end, so it was very strange to see these few gentlemen buried in a single plot.
Title: Re: Deaths in Sunderland Shipyards
Post by: Lydia2017 on Saturday 25 April 20 22:18 BST (UK)
My grandfather William Weston Robinson died on 2 April 1930 after an accident at Sir John Priestman's shipyard.
"Died of injuries sustained at work at Sir John Priestman's shipyard".  We have his death card/holy picture which gives those details.

Death Cert says "fracture of the skull due to falling down the hold of a ship in course of construction whilst following his employment; accidental".

interestingly despite my many searches of the British National newspaper database to which I subscribe and letter to coroner in the area it does not seem to have been reported in the newspapers at the time which is unusual as most inquests were. Nor does the John Priestman trust have any records of it. My huge coincidence the shipyard owner - Sir John Priestman was an organist and he played the organ at the wedding of the parents of my father in 1917 in Sunderland. My father the child of that union then married my mother in 1953, my mother being the only child left without a father aged 4 months on that death in 1930 at the shipyard.

It would be a good to have some public list of all these deaths just as there are for coal miners. The death had huge implications and my grandmother never married again nor had any more children.
Title: Re: Deaths in Sunderland Shipyards
Post by: stanmapstone on Sunday 26 April 20 08:18 BST (UK)
The British Newspaper Archive does not have any copies of the Sunderland Echo for 1930.

Stan
Title: Re: Deaths in Sunderland Shipyards
Post by: Crumblie on Sunday 26 April 20 08:47 BST (UK)
There were probably many deaths that were not reported in any newspapers. In those days health and safety was non-existent in shipbuilding, mining, steelworks to name just a few. Accidents whether fatal or not were seen as just part of the job. If they were fatal friends of the deceased were often refused time off to attend their funeral and would be sacked if they did anyway.
Title: Re: Deaths in Sunderland Shipyards
Post by: stanmapstone on Sunday 26 April 20 09:08 BST (UK)
Death Cert says "fracture of the skull due to falling down the hold of a ship in course of construction whilst following his employment; accidental".

Even if there was a newspaper report it is unlikely that it  would give you any more information than what is on the death certificate.

There were probably many deaths that were not reported in any newspapers.

Inquests were usually reported in the local newspaper.


Stan
Title: Re: Deaths in Sunderland Shipyards
Post by: stanmapstone on Sunday 26 April 20 09:28 BST (UK)
Even if there was a newspaper report it is unlikely that it  would give you any more information than what is on the death certificate.
Stan

This is an example from the Sunderland Daily Echo and Shipping Gazette 04 September 1929
Title: Re: Deaths in Sunderland Shipyards
Post by: Lydia2017 on Sunday 26 April 20 13:22 BST (UK)
Many thanks to all those responding. I found a coal miner Solan (my mother's family's name) newspaper death report - a sibling of my great grandfather. It was quite a long article  and apparently 500 people lined the streets in respect as he was taken to the graveside and a brass band of miners plays in the late 1800s. So I know some inquests are reported. Another ancestor in the 1800s killed herself leaving 5 or 6 children and that was in the papers.

I think that is right that the Sunderland Echo is not on that database which is probably the issue rather than that it was hushed up in some way. I will see if I can get copies of the 1930 issues elsewhere. I wish my mother (his only child) were alive as she always wanted more information about her father and his family. It is possible 1930 was a very difficult year - great depression just started whereas late 1800s mining was booming and more money around so the newspaper reporting etc might just have been different by that time.
Title: Re: Deaths in Sunderland Shipyards
Post by: Ryhopelad on Sunday 26 April 20 18:50 BST (UK)
Hello Lydia

There is an inquest report in the Sunderland Echo for William but unfortunately it is only a few lines. When I find an inquest relating to the shipyard deaths I always download a copy for my records but with this report being so short I just copied it out. I would be only too pleased to forward a copy to you, as well as the death announcement, acknowledgement  and a copy of the cemetery record. I have not yet been able to visit the cemetery to see if there is a headstone. Looking at my records for the 1930's it would appear that William's inquest is the only one that is so short the others are quite detailed.
 
If you require the original item from the newspaper I would be able to get this for you as I visit the Sunderland Local Studies library regularly, but it could be some time before restrictions are lifted and I am able to continue my research.

You mention a list of those who lost their lives in the shipyards, it was because that there are no records of the men and boys killed that I began my research over 15 years ago. There is not one facility that has any records, if I remember correctly Durham Record Office have one original inquest report of a shipyard death in their records. My only resource has been the newspaper microfilms in the Local Studies Library, which I have gone through in fine detail looking for accident reports. I am now up to 1969 but because of the current situation have had to put my research on hold. I have now over a thousand names the first dating back to Thomas Charlton aged 58 years who was killed on the 31st December 1831.

I think it is a disgrace  that men like Thomas Charlton and your grandfather who lost their lives following their employment are not known or remembered.

I will contact you by personal message with my email address, just let me know if you require the information I have.

Ryhopelad

Title: Re: Deaths in Sunderland Shipyards
Post by: Lydia2017 on Sunday 26 April 20 19:50 BST (UK)
Thank you. That is really helpful. I will email you and it would be nice to see the very short report - just a transcription is fine unless you have time to get a copy next time you go there.

My mother's life was totally changed from what it might have been because of losing her father when she was 4 months old. Her mother never had much money. On the other hand I suspect because she was then an only child she had a bit more attention as no siblings and was able to go to pass the 11+ for grammar school and qualify as a teacher but even so it was very hard to grow up without a father. She used to go with her mother to do debt collection work for small debts as a child  and her mother was school caretaker by 1939 census  and there was certainly not much money at all. It was quite sad as William was one of ten children and only five including William survived childhood and then William died too which left his parents with only 4 out of 10 children. We do have a few pictures of him.

It is very good of you to try to keep alive the memory of these shipyard workers who died. I always wondered if he might have jumped to his death and they tried to cover it up and that was why there was no records that I could find but he had been married just 16 months or so with a new baby and his wife , was very happy and her family were Catholic so suicide was extremely unlikely and I am sure the death cert is true - that he fell from a height at work.
Title: Re: Deaths in Sunderland Shipyards
Post by: Thunderbird167 on Saturday 23 May 20 18:29 BST (UK)
Message for Ryhopelad.

Can you contact me as I am very interested in you research

I am working on a new maritime exhibition for the North East Land, Sea and Air Museum next to Nissan and think the shipyards and the sacrifices made should be represented
Title: Re: Deaths in Sunderland Shipyards
Post by: Ryhopelad on Saturday 20 June 20 19:36 BST (UK)
Hello Thunderbird 167

Apologies for not replying by the message board, sent a private message with my email address which it looks as though you may have not received. Thanks for your interest in my research if you can give me some idea how I can assist you, I will do my best to help.

Ryhopelad
Title: Re: Deaths in Sunderland Shipyards
Post by: Danny61 on Wednesday 18 November 20 20:54 GMT (UK)
In 1935/6 ayoung man, Robert (Bobby) Brewerton, was killed in an accident at Bartrams. He was crushed to death by a large piece of metal which was being swung into place.  He was just 25. I have the Echo report of the inquest, where a verdict of accidental death was recorded. Bobby was a father of 2, with a 3rd child due.  In 1948, another man was crushed to death at the same yard, this time by a lorry. This other man was Bobby Brewerton, senior. To compound the misery of this family, young Bobby's wife, Etty, died aged just 26, leaving 3 children orphaned. I know this through family tree research, as Bobby Snr married my grandmother, Mary Ann Forrest, in 1943. My own Grandmother had already lost 2 husbands previously.   It was a tough life in those days
Title: Re: Deaths in Sunderland Shipyards
Post by: Ryhopelad on Thursday 19 November 20 18:31 GMT (UK)
Thanks for your message, I have the information concerning the death of young Robert in 1936, the accident was on the 8th June and he died two days later in the Royal Infirmary.
I do not have anything on the death of his father. Do you have any information on Robert senior's death ?
I have two photos of Robert's headstone and a copy of the burial record he was buried in Sunderland Cemetery. I would be more than pleased to forward these to you.

Ryhopelad

Title: Re: Deaths in Sunderland Shipyards
Post by: Ryhopelad on Thursday 19 November 20 19:18 GMT (UK)
Hello Danny 61

Have just looked at the newspapers on the Find My Past site and found the inquest report regarding Robert Brewerton' death (12th July 1948). It appears he was cycling to work and collided with a lorry just before he got to Bartram's shipyard where he was employed as a labourer. A verdict of accidental death was returned, he is buried in Sunderland Cemetery.

Let me know if you also want a copy of the inquest report.

Ryhopelad
 
Title: Re: Deaths in Sunderland Shipyards
Post by: Danny61 on Thursday 19 November 20 19:50 GMT (UK)
Hello

Thanks very much for your reply. Its been very difficult to get the correct info on Bobby Snr's death. so thanks for shedding more light on it. I'd be very happy to receive a copy of the inquest report. My understanding, from what my mam told me when I was younger, my Nana, Mary Ann, was awarded compensation for the "children", my mam included. However it seems that what actaully happened is that my nana would take the children along to th court offices, and explain ghat the kids needed clothes etc, and she would be given a sum of money, in cash. She would then gives the kids a penny or so to get sweets, and she would then head of to the pub, where she was a well known regular. :( As for young Bobby, I accidentally came across his grave in Sunderland Cemetery just a few weeks ago. I live on St Aidans Est, and use the cemetery daily for dog walks. I took a short cut and there it was, in front of me. So thanks for the offer of a picture, but I have one already.  I also believe that Bobby snr is also buried in the same Cemetery, where my nana was buried alongside him, when she died in 1969. I have the location of the grave, which is unmarked at the moment.

Thanks again

Danny
Title: Re: Deaths in Sunderland Shipyards
Post by: Ryhopelad on Friday 20 November 20 18:12 GMT (UK)
Hello Danny

If you contact me by personal message with your email address I will send you the information I have.

Ryhopelad
Title: Re: Deaths in Sunderland Shipyards
Post by: Ryhopelad on Tuesday 09 April 24 14:45 BST (UK)
Throughout my time researching those who lost their lives while employed in the shipbuilding industry in Sunderland a number of people have been in touch with information. Would just like to say thank you to all those who have contacted me.

Also to let anyone who may be interested know that a book has been published about the research.
The Shipyard Lads. Shipbuilding Deaths in Sunderland 1830 - 1984. Priced at £4-99 with all proceeds going to Down's Syndrome North East (DSNE).

If anyone is interested please PM me.

Was unsure whether you can advertise a publication for sale on here, contacted the Support team about it but have received no reply. Have posted with the hope that it is OK if not apologies.

Ryhopelad
 
Title: Re: Deaths in Sunderland Shipyards
Post by: northernerkr on Saturday 28 September 24 15:08 BST (UK)
I'm really interested in any information you have on William Erskine from your research - I have some connection with him - can't PM you as only just joined when I saw this thread - Many thanks