Shipbuilder
4th November 2010, 20:27
A number of years ago, I came a cross a book published in 1939 and written by Captain G. J. Whitfield, who was, at that time, in command of the Union-Castle liner ARUNDEL CASTLE. The book only cost a few pence and I have read it several times, never tiring of it. Captain Whitfield came across as a very humane, pleasant and efficient seaman of the old school who lived a most adventurous life at sea for over 50 years in both sail and steam.
The ARUNDEL CASTLE was only seven years gone to scrap when I first walked the decks of my first Union-Castle liner, TRANSVAAL CASTLE, in 1965. Even so, some of the old stories related by Captain Whitfield in his book were still doing the rounds, although by then, his name had disappeared as the originator of the yarns.
I have looked through the Union-Castle Chronicles and other very extensive books and writings on the history of the Union-Castle Line, but drawn a complete blank on Captain Whitfield. He does not seem to be mentioned anywhere!
What became of him? Did he survive World War II and retire in peace, or did he die with his boots on at sea aboard a Castle liner.
Hoping someone can cast some light on his final chapter.
Bob
The ARUNDEL CASTLE was only seven years gone to scrap when I first walked the decks of my first Union-Castle liner, TRANSVAAL CASTLE, in 1965. Even so, some of the old stories related by Captain Whitfield in his book were still doing the rounds, although by then, his name had disappeared as the originator of the yarns.
I have looked through the Union-Castle Chronicles and other very extensive books and writings on the history of the Union-Castle Line, but drawn a complete blank on Captain Whitfield. He does not seem to be mentioned anywhere!
What became of him? Did he survive World War II and retire in peace, or did he die with his boots on at sea aboard a Castle liner.
Hoping someone can cast some light on his final chapter.
Bob