Charles Milner

Charles Milner

Charles Milner drowned in the river Trent in an accident on 17th June 1879.

He was born on 25th December 1860.

Charles was a member of the Gainsborough Rowing Club and was on the Trent with Edward Smith. They both worked for Edward’s father who ran Smith’s Ironmongers in the Market Place.

The steam packet the SS Scarborough went past their boat and the swell capsized Charles and Edwards small boat.

The local paper on 28th June 1879 reported:

“Little else has been talked of during the past week, and on Sunday, at both church and chapel. pulpit discourses included references to the fatal accident, and in several places of worship special prayers were offered for the comfort of the bereaved.”

Charles and Edward drowned on a Tuesday. It was announced on the Monday that Charles’ body had been recovered.

Edward’s body was found the following day near Walkerith.

The text on Charles Milner’s headstone couldn’t be restored as it has started to peel away in layers.