Captain Johnstones Cottage – Murray Bridge
Captain Adam Johnstone’s maritime career began in Europe, where he served under Captain Francis Cadell during his early years as a trader between Leith and the Baltic ports. He later joined his brother in whaling operations in the Arctic Seas, gaining extensive experience in northern waters.
Johnstone arrived in South Australia in 1856 aboard the brig Lady Emma, which also transported the first two Murray River steamers—the Albury and the Gundagai—in prefabricated form. He assisted in the construction of both vessels from the imported components and subsequently served as a crewman on the Gundagai, eventually earning the distinction of becoming its first officer.
Like many South Australians of the era, Johnstone left for the Victorian goldfields in 1851 in search of fortune, but soon returned to resume his work on the Murray. He later entered the service of Mr. S. Heseltine, captaining several of his vessels until Heseltine retired and sold his fleet. Johnstone then joined the firm of Mr. John Whyte, commanding two of his steamers—the Medindie and the Shannon—remaining with the company until Whyte’s death and the subsequent sale of his ships.
Captain Adam Johnstone passed away in 1905 at the age of 71. He was remembered as one of the most respected river men to have worked the Murray during its formative decades of steam navigation.
Although the Captain’s Cottage Museum is steeped in historical significance, documented ghost stories are scarce. Local lore suggests that a spirit is said to linger in the rear kitchen of the home. While some have speculated that the presence may be connected to Captain Johnstone himself, there is little evidence to support this. It is more plausible that the spirit belongs to a later resident of the property. As yet, its identity remains unknown.
For those who have visited the cottage, personal experiences vary widely. If any of you, regular readers, have encountered something unusual or unexplained at the Captain’s Cottage Museum in Murray Bridge, we would be interested to hear your account. You can share your experiences on our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/TheHauntsOfAdelaide
© 2015 Allen Tiller
No comments:
Post a Comment