DEATH – METCALFE James 51 years. Fisherman drowned at Redcar

Accreditation the Redcar and Saltburn-by-the-Sea 11/08/1876

MAN DROWNED AT REDCAR

          An inquest was held at the Read Lion Hotel, Redcar, on Monday (7/08), before Mr.A. Buchannan, coroner, on view of the body of James Metcalfe, fishermen, 51 years of age, who had been drowned the previous night (10/08). The evidence showed that deceased had gone out apprently for the purpose of seeing that everything was right on board Commander Watt’s coble, of which she had the charge, and which was lying at anchor about half a mile off. In stepping from one boat to the other he had fallen overboard, and was drowned before assistance could reach him. His body was recovered a few minutes afterwards by two seamen from the steamer “Vigilan”,” which was landing passengers at Redcar Pier, and there were towed ashore by two of the brothers Picknett, and a son of the deceased, the latter having witnessed the occurrence, and put off to his father’s rescue, accompanied by the Picknetts. Every effort was made to restore him by Dr. Cuaig (of Middlesbrough), Dr.Bennett, and Dr.Walker, but without avail. A verdict of “Accidentally drowned” was returned. A subscription list has been opened for deceased’s widow, who is an invalid, and to whom the jewellery men generously returned their fees. We shall be glad to receive any money on her behalf at our office.