CAPTAIN’S ASHES

Grey River Argus, 24 August 1946, Page 4

CAPTAIN’S ASHES

CAST INTO SEA NEAR NIAGARA WRECK P.A. AUCKLAND, Aug. 23. A wireless message from the master of the Union Company cargo steamer Kairanga, Captain E. M Anderson, was received' by the “Herald” to-night stating that the ship would pass over the wreck of the Niagara at 11.15 to-night, and that the ashes of the liner’s late commander, Captain William Martin would be scattered and the Kairanga’s engines would be stopped during a brief burial service read by the master and a wreath from a member of his crew would be dropped over the side. The steamer will arrive at Auckland from Sydney tomorrow. Captain Martin was in command of the Niagara on her last voy age when she left Auckland for Vancouver in June, 1940. The ship was mined' near the Hen and Chicken group, off the entrance to WhaniHcei harbour, and i,she foundered two hours later, in 438 feet of water. Captain Martin, who died at Sydney last month, had commanded th liner for more than four years. It was his wish that his ashes should be cast into the sea near the wreck of his old' ship.