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James Sibbald - Grandson of
a Trafalgar Veteran
A census of the Town of Rivers in 1910 would show what a diverse group
of people lived here; people from all over – each with stories to tell.
Some of those stories would connect us to notable events, the sort we
learned about in our history classes.
James Sibbald was one such pioneer.
He was grandson of the Midshipman James Sibbald who was born in Leith,
Edinburgh, Scotland and was a Master’s Mate aboard the HMS Victory
commanded by Admiral Horatio (Lord) Nelson at the Battle of Trafalgar
on October 21, 1805.
The British won that battle, but a musket ball fired by a French
sharpshooter hit Nelson and he died soon after learning that the day
was won.
Young Sibbald’s role as Master’s Mate kept him close to his commander
as he was with him as he lay dying. It was he who placed his kit bag
under the Admiral’s head to comfort him.
Community Service
James Sibbald was an example of the sort of leadership that created and
sustained communities. He seemed to be involved in everything.
He served on the first Tarbolton School Board 1883. He
represented his district on the first Daly Council in 1884. He was the
second Roden Postmaster and served from 1888 to1896. He was a Justice
of the Peace for many years.
His most lasting legacy rests in his involvement with Tarbolton Church
and Cemetery. He was on the Church Committee that decided to build the
Church and establish the Cemetery. and he donated the land.
But if we remember him as the “Trafalgar Hero’s Grandson”, that’s OK
too.
Admiral
Nelson
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