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Navy Records

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Richard

Richard Report 25 Jun 2007 11:13

I have an relative from the mid-1800s, who is listed on the 1871 Census as being a stoker on board the HMS Basilisk under Captain John Moresby. I have discovered a great deal about this particular ship - a paddle sloop - and its journey to Australia and how it was used to survey the coastline of Papua New Guinea. However, beyond the 1871 Census, I have been able to find nothing further about my relative. I do not know if he returned to the UK with the Basilisk (although he does not appear on the 1881/91/1901 Censuses), emigrated to a better life in Australia or died during the voyage. Can anybody advise where best I might extend my search to find out what happened to my relative? The answer may be really obvious to some experienced genealogists out there, but I really need a nudge in the right direction! Thanks Richard

Clive

Clive Report 25 Jun 2007 11:28

By 1871 navy people were in permanent employment so naval records and national archives ought to be able to help. I think I would concentrate on naval records. It is some time since I looked up deaths at sea and all I remember is that finding them was not straight forward! Clive

Pete

Pete Report 25 Jun 2007 11:35

If he continued to serve after 1873 you should be able to get a copy of his service record online. http://www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/documentsonline/royal-navy-service.asp

Linda

Linda Report 26 Jun 2007 12:28

Last week I found my g-g-grandmothers brother on a census last week showing that he was with the navy and the vessel name he was on 1881. Thanks to this thread I was able to obtain his Navy details from the website. All done & dusted within 10 mins. Many thanks Linda