John Gray

John Gray (12 December 1819 – 25 November 1872) was a Scottish merchant seaman and master mariner who served as Captain of the SS Great Britain for eighteen years. He died in mysterious circumstances, after apparently jumping or falling overboard.

Early life

Gray, was born on 8 December 1819 at Valand, Westing, Unst, in the Shetland Isles, the son of Sarah (née Johnson) and Robert Gray.

Career

Gray progressed to commanding ships for Gibbs, Bright & Co. then made Captain in April 1854, prior to the third, following the resignation of his predecessor Captain Matthews. and the Indian Rebellion. Gray complained of pain in his bowels and returned to his cabin. Near midnight he was seen walking towards the ship's deck. The next morning, he could not be found, and one of the transom windows at the ship's stern was open, having been locked the night before.