Article

William Jackman

Published Online January 16, 2008

Last Edited December 15, 2013

William Jackman, sealing captain, sailing master (b at Renews, Nfld 20 May 1837; d at St John's 25 Feb 1877). William, like his famous brother, Capt Arthur JACKMAN, was at an early age involved in the Labrador cod fishery and in the seal hunt.

Jackman, William

William Jackman, sealing captain, sailing master (b at Renews, Nfld 20 May 1837; d at St John's 25 Feb 1877). William, like his famous brother, Capt Arthur JACKMAN, was at an early age involved in the Labrador cod fishery and in the seal hunt. From 1867 to 1876 he was in charge of 2 Bowring Brothers sealing steamers. He is remembered for the dramatic sea rescue at Spotted Islands, Labrador, on 9 October 1867, which is one of the greatest stories of heroism ever recorded. In harbour to ride out a storm, Jackman went ashore, where he saw a wooden fishing vessel, the Sea Clipper, being dashed to pieces on a reef some distance from shore. Jackman threw himself into the icy water and, though battered by the surf, was able to rescue 11 of the 27 aboard unassisted. Then, with a rope and the help of others, he swam out 16 more times to bring the remaining men and women ashore.