The David Clement Memorial Lecture: William S Lindsay, shipowner, politician and envoy

Added: 16 May 2025

 Lecture by Bill Lindsay, author: W. S. Lindsay – Victorian Entrepreneur

May 16^th 7.00 pm   Matthews Hall

Hear about the life and times of William S. Lindsay, one of the largest shipowners of the 1850s, and how he rose from being a penniless orphan to rub shoulders with the great and good of the Victorian age.

Maritime history bookstall including our speaker Bill Lindsay’ biography of his forefather W. S. Lindsay

W.S. Lindsay was famous for his achievements as a shipping magnate, MP and unofficial envoy for the British Government. He met the great and good including Brunel, Florence Nightingale, Dickens, Abraham Lincoln, and Benjamin Disraeli.

His story is even more impressive as he was orphaned aged 10; ran away to sea at 13; became a merchant Captain, and “retired” to ship ownership at 26, after a pirate ambush!

David Clement was Chair of the Topsham Museum for many years. An eminent Maritime Historian, he wrote the authoritative history of the 4 masted barque: Square Rigger Sunset. He was also Chair of the South West Maritime History Society, sponsor of this Lecture.

Tickets £7 @ www.swmaritime.org.uk on the door & Topsham Bookshop