James Meakin

James Meakin was born in 1854 in Greenock Scotland. His name at birth was James Meiken. His name changed when he emigrated to Australia, although when that was is unclear. He lived on Garden Island for 25 years. He was 65 years old.

James was a wetliner, and he fished alone in his boat Watersprite, selling his catch in Fremantle. He fished as far north as Geraldton, unusual for a solo fisher. He was well known along the coast and in Fremantle as an intrepid fisher, and reports indicate he was well-liked by those who knew him.

James’ friend on Garden Island was fisherman Charles Bastholm, an Austrian who lived on Garden Island near to him.

On 12 July 1919 James went to Fremantle in the morning. At 11am he went out to his boat. Charles saw him go out. Later he looked out for James, but did not see him. He did not return at his usual time.

The next morning when James had not come ashore, Charles took his boat to the Watersprite to check on him. He found James aboard his boat. He had died there.

Charles notified police and on 14 July Fremantle Constables Richards and Mortimer took the tug Ivanhoe to Garden Island. They took James’ body back to Fremantle. An inquiry determined James had a heart disease, and his heart had stopped while he was aboard his beloved boat.

James was buried in the Presbyterian section of the Fremantle Cemetery. Reverend Robert Hanlen conducted the service to the many people who attended.

By the end of the month the Watersprite was advertised for tender with her sails, oars and running gear. James had not written a will, so following probate processes the Intestate Curator Gervase Clifton advertised in local newspapers for creditors to come forward. It seems James did not have family to inherit his boat.