Letter of commendation for David Jones of the XANTHIPPE by Captain John Rees
Date26 March 1866
Object numberANMS0239[003]
NameTestimonial
MediumInk on paper
DimensionsOverall (Unfolded): 235 × 182 mm, 0.003 kg
ClassificationsEphemera
Credit LineANMM Collection Gift from Joan Jones
DescriptionA handwritten letter recommending David Jones to any future employers written by John Rees, the master of the British Brig XANTHIPPE. Captain Rees acknowledges that they had sailed together over the period of February 26th 1864 to March 17th 1866 and that Jones displayed "the most sober, honest, obedient and faithful manner".
Of note is Captain Rees gratitude for Jones acting as master of the ship and 'taking charge' while he was unable to perform his duties as captain. The same incident is mentioned in another letter of recommendation ANMS0239[002].HistoryCaptain David Jones was born at Aberaeron, Cardiganshire, South Wales on February 3, 1841. He died 25 December 1926, aged 85 years. He was, in his early years, master of many famous clippers, including the steamer CARDIGAN CASTLE, on which he made six trips to Australia. In 1885 he accepted a position as chief surveyor of the Marine Underwriters' Association in Melbourne. In 1889 he left this position to take up office with the Victorian Stevedores' Company. He retired eight years later to Armadale, Victoria. He is buried at the Williamstown Cemetery.
Throughout his career Captain Jones received a number of letters of commendation from vessel owners, agents and passengers. This letter from 1865 is from his days before he was promoted but clearly shows that he was already highly capable, on land and sea, and held in high esteem.
Little is know about John Nathaniel Evans although the Holy Trinity church at Aberaeron has a brass eagle lecturn dedicated to him.
SignificanceThese papers of Captain Jones provide a continuous link from seaman to master in one sailor's life. The connection with Australia is strong - having captained ships here from England, Captain Jones emigrated and continued his
association with the sea. He was a very highly respected master as is evidenced in these numerous letters of introduction and recommendation by the owners of the vessels he captained.
1 November 1865
