William Edward Elliott, formerly of HMCS Rainbow.
In February, 2020 I exchanged emails with Joy Rose of the UK. She wrote in part: "I am researching my great-grandfather William Edward Elliott, dob 23/04/1867, Worcester, England. He joined the Royal Navy on 23/04/1885, service number 121173, and (served on) many ships until 09/06/1910. He rose to the rank of Chief Writer. On 14/05/1910 he transferred to Canadian Naval Services (for) three years.
"A recent TV programme about British/Canadian naval history prompted me to try and find out which ships he served on in Canada. I am pleased to say that I have found him on the 1911 census list of crew of HMCS Rainbow, Page 27, line 28 – William Elliott, Chief Writer, dob Apr 1867, age 50. Everything fits, apart from the omission of middle name Edward and the age which should be 44. All in all a good match, and I am really pleased to find another piece in the jigsaw.
"I don't know when (this photo) was taken but I'm guessing it was after he returned to England. I've found a William Elliott returning to Liverpool on a passenger ship in 1913, which would fit in with completion of his three years RCN service. Sadly my great-grandfather died in a car accident in 1923 – 30 years sailing round the world, including conflicts in South Africa and China, and then killed a few miles from home!!"
William Edward Elliott, formerly of HMCS Rainbow. Date unknown, but between 1913 and 1923.
Can you provide details or corrections?
Please email Charlie Dobie.