To the left of the lych gate inside historic Morpeth Cemetery are the leaning headstones of five dead sailors.
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Drowning was the fate of the men – aged 20 to 40 years – and their deaths occurred far from home and family.
Poignantly known as Sailors’ Row, the memorials are traditional upright slab headstones and most are carved with the anchor and rope motif, symbolising the occupation of the sailor and the anchor of hope derived from Saint Paul.
The story of the sailors will feature in the latest offering from the Maitland City Heritage Group.
Titled Curiosities of Maitland, the book will be a collection of the city’s more unusual and quirky tales of the past.
“We are still researching for the book so we’d love to hear from people who know of anything that’s a bit curious, just like Sailors’ Row,” Maitland City Council heritage officer Clare James said.
“We’re after something that stands apart from the usual.
“When you think of Morpeth you don’t immediately think of sailors.”
Sailors’ Row includes the graves of William Steinkemp, a native of Germany, who was accidentally drowned from the SS Maitland in July 1873; John Johnsson, a native of Sweden, who was drowned from the SS Collaroy in June 1875; Charles Wilson, who was accidentally drowned from the SS City of Newcastle in July 1876; and Edward Cooling of the SS Coonanbaram, who was drowned while bathing at Morpeth in February 1877.
A fifth sailor from the SS Morpeth and City of Newcastle was drowned in 1870.
“Opening this concept up to the community is a great idea because this publication could be greatly embellished by the knowledge of community,” Ms James said.
To submit a story idea contact Clare James on 4934 9832 or email clarej@maitland.nsw.gov.au
