The Unwavering Courage of Captain William Jackman: A Newfoundland Hero's Tale
A stone's throw from the cozy confines of the Whale House Guest House at the Captain's Table Restaurant lies a story of incredible bravery that ripples through the very fabric of Newfoundland's history. It's the legend of Captain William Jackman, a man whose name is not only etched in the annals of maritime heroism but also lovingly commemorated in the heart of the community he called home.
For those who have seen the commemorative plaque or heard the local tales, the story of Captain Jackman is one of superhuman endurance and selfless courage. The tale, as detailed in the display dedicated to his memory, unfolds on a stormy October 9th, 1867, off the rugged coast of Labrador.
As a fierce storm raged, the sailing vessel Sea Clipper found itself at the mercy of the tempest, pounded against a treacherous reef at Spotted Island. On board were 27 souls, facing a grim and certain fate in the churning, icy waters.
From the shore, Captain William Jackman, a sealing captain from Renews, witnessed the unfolding tragedy. Without a moment's hesitation, he plunged into the frigid Atlantic. In an astounding display of strength and determination, he swam back and forth to the wreck a staggering 27 times, single-handedly rescuing every man and woman from the doomed vessel.
The accounts of his heroism are nothing short of breathtaking. The plaque recounts how, after rescuing the first 11 survivors, a rope was tied around his waist to aid his efforts in the violent surf. Undeterred by the immense physical toll, he continued his perilous journey until all were brought safely to shore.
For his "great courage," Captain Jackman was awarded a medal by the Royal Humane Society in 1868. Yet, in a true testament to his humble nature, he was a man of few words when it came to his own bravery. It is said that after receiving the prestigious award, he simply gave it to his wife, Bridgett, and never spoke of the harrowing event again.
Tragically, Captain Jackman's life was cut short in 1877 at the age of 39. His funeral in St. John's was a testament to the profound impact he had on his community, reportedly the largest ever seen in the city's history at the time.
Today, the legacy of this legendary Newfoundland hero lives on. For visitors staying at the Whale House Guest House in Mobile, a tangible connection to this incredible story can be found right next door. The Captain's Table restaurant, a local favorite, proudly bears its name in his honor. In a heartwarming continuation of his legacy, one of the restaurant's owners is Captain Jackman's own great-great-granddaughter.
So, as you savor a meal at the Captain's Table, take a moment to reflect on the tale of the man it's named after.
The story of Captain William Jackman is a powerful reminder of the resilience and courage that defines the spirit of Newfoundland and Labrador. It’s a story of an ordinary man who, in the face of extraordinary circumstances, became a hero for the ages.