SS SAIMA.

[Bob Coulson]

Real long shot but has anyone any info on Walter Nelson who was Master of the Saima when she was torpedoed by U-82 on June 8th 1918 off Trevose Head.

Grateful for any leads.

Bob.

[historydavid]

Hello Bob, only very sparse info on CWGC:

NELSON W, Master, Mercantile Marine, Saima (London) S.S., 08-Jun-18.

On 8th June 1918 SS Saima, dfensively armed, built 1914, 1,147 grt, was torpedoed by German U-boat U 82, 10 miles W from Trevose Head Lighthouse, in Ballast, voyage from Rouen to Barry Roads, The Shippng Controller (Withering & Everett - Newcastle upon Tyne). 16 lives were lost.

Best wishes

David

[Bob Coulson]

Thanks for that David.

Bob.

[per ardua per mare per terram]

Have you already searched for his Certificates of Competency and Service as both mate and later as Master?

I think kew has copies http://www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/catalog...?sLeafletID=131

[Bob Coulson]

Thanks, that will be my next move.

Bob.

[Bob Coulson]

Now have his date and place of birth but can't find him on the 1901 census.

What was the proceedure for the census if a man was at sea when it was taken.

Any ideas?

Bob.