Dear PATERSON Researchers, I submit the following obituary entry from the Caithness Courier (newspaper) copied exactly as written, Thurso, Caithness, SCOTLAND, dated Friday, the 24 January 1913. It is quite lengthy, but after the first paragraph, it gives some insight into the lives and times of the day in Thurso, which is about as far north as you can go in SCOTLAND. Donald PATERSON was my grandfather. He was born 17 August 1844, married Margaret FRASER on 10 February 1871. My father, George PATERSON, changed to PATTERSON later, was the youngest (b. 1893 d. 1954). I hope if anyone recognizes granddad, that they will get in touch with me as I haven't a clue as to where my fathers siblings went and would like to be in touch with some cousins. I'm also hoping that someone may have a picture of him somewhere. Thank you, Michael Patterson (Cynthia Hale) ________________________________________________ Death of Captain Donald PATERSON It is with feelings of deepest regret we have to chronicle this week the death of one of our most respected and widely known inhabitants, in the person of Mr. Donald PATERSON, coach proprietor, Prudential Assurance Agent, and retired ship master, which took place early on Tuesday morning after a brief illness. Desceased had been in his usual good health up till Saturday evening, and was busily engaged in his usual duties at his office in Princess Street, when about eleven o'clock he was suddenly struck with a stroke of paralysis. He was immediately conveyed to his home in George Street where the best of medical skill was speedily obtained. However despite everything that could be done, he never rallied and passed peacefully to rest on Tuesday morning. Mr. PATERSON who was 68 years of age, was born in the parish of Dunnet, which has sent forth many able shipmasters into the seafaring world. He was educated by his Uncle, the late Mr. Edward PATERSON, schoolmaster and teacher of navagation, who was famed for his training of those who wished to follow a seafaring life. Like the majority of the Dunnet young men, Mr. PATERSON took to a seafaring life, and his marked ability and seamanship early showed itself, so much so that he was soon appointed to the responsible post of shipmaster. The first vessel he sailed in at the age of 14 years was the "Caithness-shire", engaged in the coasting trade. The vessels he commanded were the schooners "Ocean Star" and "Guiding Star", and his last vessel before retiring was the barque "George Walker". Captain PATERSON followed the seafaring life for a period of 23 years, 15 of which he served as shipmaster. He was engaged in both the home and foreign trade. He was well known at the different ports of call, and was held in much respect by seafaring men. It is worthy of very special mention that while serving in the merchant service, he was instrumental in saving the lives of the Captain and crew of the German steamship "Unanimity" in mid ocean at great risk. In recognition of this gallent and praiseworthy deed, Captain PATERSON was presented with a gold watch and telescope, with suitable inscription, by the German Emperor (King of Prussia). Needless to say these gifts were the most cherished of the gallant Captain's possessions. On returning from the sea, he started business in Thurso as a provision merchant. At that time he kept for business purposes a pony and trap, and being a man of shrewd business capabilities, he saw a future in the hiring business. Mr. PATERSON immediately struck out in this new direction, and very soon the business developed into one of the largest posting establishments in the county, and he ultimately gave up the business as provision merchant. Mr. PATERSON also took up the business of Insurance Agent for Prudential Assurance Society and in this direction his push and energy quickly brought him a good business. The business of posting and the Insurance brought him into contact with people from all parts of the county, and he was held in much esteem by all who knew him. He was straightforward and upright in all his dealings, and was always ready to meet one in difficulites. Mr. PATERSON was an office-bearer in the Congregational Church, and always took a keen and practical interest in the work of the church. He was a member of the St. Peter's Lodge of Freemasons and as a last mark of respect the brethren attended the funeral, which took place at the Thurso Cemetary to-day (Thursday), wearing their full regalia. The funeral was very largely attended. He leaves a widow, seven sons, and three daughters to mourn his loss, the majority of whom are in America, the eldest son being in business for himself in Dundee, to whom much sympathy is extended in their sore and sudden bereavement. (The End) (Children of Donald PATERSON and Margaret FRASER) John b. 17 Oct. 1872 Annie E. Donald William Alexander (died 1st world war) James W. Margaret Isabella Murdoch Fraser George b. 1 Mar. 1893 d. 14 Sep. 1954