Hi, Charneca,
The name of John McCarthy doesn't appear in the List in Beyond the Bar.
Unfortunately, I would add that records for the dates which you quote (i.e. a working-life spent mostly in the 20th century) are virtually complete. The records are, however, kept under review and, as you might have noticed, a missing sheep from the 19th century was discovered hiding in the fold only a few days ago.
Do you have any firm evidence that he was a licensed pilot?
Much confusion has arisen from the issue of pilotage exemption certificates to shipmasters engaged in the coastal trade, not least from the common expression that the master of a particular coaster might "hold the licence", when in truth the document merely provides an exemption from the obligation to engage a licensed pilot. There were hundreds of exemption certificates issued in the coasting trade.
A First Class Pilot's Licence authorises a pilot to conduct the pilotage of any ship of any size.
An Exemption Certificate merely authorises the master of a particular ship to conduct his own pilotage.
Perhaps your Grandfather was a coastal shipmaster?
Any further information would be useful.
Best regards,
BY
