Collection of 18 documents relating to Captain Robert McKilliam
Date1913 - 1932
Object numberANMS0243
NameArchive series
MediumPaper
ClassificationsEphemera
Credit LineANMM Collection Gift from Robert D and Robert Laurence McKilliam
DescriptionThese 18 documents were collected by Captain Robert Basil Vincent McKilliam during his maritime career. The series consists of one copy of regulations relating to Sydney Harbour Trust commissioners; two memorandums; three industrial award agreements; one leaflet for the Sydney Marine Underwriters' and Salvage Association Limited; two sets of instructions for instructions for gate-keepers working for the Darling Island Stevedoring and Lighterage co; one Lists of Rates in Waterside Workers' Award; two letters; two employment agreements; three booklets and one card relating to the working conditions and rates of pay for members of the Sydney Wharf Labourers' Union. The documents span the period 1907 – 1919.HistoryScottish-born Captain Robert Basil Vincent McKilliam served in the Aberdeen White Star Line between 1876 and 1908. A native of Aberdeen, he was apprenticed at 14. He served under famous clipper captains like Robert Kemball and on famous clippers like THERMOPYLAE and SALAMIS, mostly in the Britain-to-Australia service. He also served in the modern steamers of the day. After 32 years he retired from the sea and soon after, in 1910, he married. In 1913 he brought his family to live in Sydney. Appointed Assistant Manager of Darling Island Wharf, he worked as a superintendent stevedore in Sydney from World War One up to the Great Depression. He died at his home in North Sydney in 1934.