Ascension : Captain Thomas Saumarez RN
Submitted by The Islander (Islander Editors) 09.09.2010 (Article Archived on 23.09.2010)

My great-grandfather Captain Thomas Saumarez RN, visited Ascension in May 1861,

Name: James Saumarez         Email: saumarez@btinternet.com

Message:
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My great-grandfather Captain Thomas Saumarez RN, visited Ascension in May 1861, en-route to take command of HMS Forte on the Brazil station. He wrote in his Journal:
'Whilst this time at Ascension I happened to mention I had never been able to find out my Uncle's grave.   He died in command of the Bann.  Strange enough, Captain Bennett, having read of the account of the loss of so many of the crew, determined to look for it, and at last succeeded.  Some foul houses had been built over the spot, and he had them cleared away, and he built a wall round the spot: the original wooden headstone to their memories still standing, but quite unintelligible.  I am quite sure I made out my own name, which must be the grave of my Uncle.  The place is now sacred, and I hope the firing steps so close will soon be removed.'
I wonder if this grave and memorial, to him and those of the other unfortunate sailors that died from yellow fever during the slavery suppression period, still exist. Could you possibly tell me, as I am publishing the Journal and would like to include this detail?
Very many thanks,
James