William Cole saved by his servants mistake!!

The Kelly wrecked on West Hoyle Sandbank

December 28th 1816

 The Kelly..Bound from Belfast to Liverpool, was a 122 ton Wooden Brig captained by Captain M' Ilwaine, a highly respected seaman. In the severe storm of the 28th December 1816, the Pilot took the ship via the River Dee in the hope of shelter but was driven onto the six mile long West Hoyle Sandbank that had been the location of numerous other losses in the area of Liverpool Bay.  The Pilots body was later recovered but all the crew and passengers perished (15-20). The ships deck was severed from the hull although the hull was finally located.  Also later recovered were 117 firkins of butter; 2 tierces, 19 barrels of provisions and various parts of the vessel including the stern boat, bowsprit, topmast, main boom, gaff, quantity of rigging, cables, blocks and deadeyes. These parts were all subsequently sold in Liverpool.

Mr. William Cole (Gunsmith) arrived safely in Liverpool on the Minerva thanks to the error of his servant!! 

William Cole  b.1793- d.1835.

Following his death Sarah Cole (Wife) continued the business until her passing in 1836 when the business was taken over by Joseph Braddell... Sarah's son and William Cole's Stepson. 

Joseph Braddell & Son's traded until 2014 within Belfast... such is fate.

Please refer to our older posts with respect to JB & S..

David Stroud. ramrodantiques.co.uk