OBITUARY

Dominion, Volume 20, Issue 51, 24 November 1926, Page 15

OBITUARY

CAPTAIN JAMES MACFARLANE A NOTED SEAFARER Dominion Special. Auckland, November 23. Captain James Maciarlaue died to-day at Devonport at the advanced age of 97 years. He commenced his seafaring career 80 years ago. and at the age oi 18 had qualified for a mate’s certificate. Three years later he secured his master's certificate. Captain Macfarlane arrived in New Zealand in 1863 from Britain in command of the City ol Dunedin, leaving her on arrival at Dunedin. Subsequently Captain Macfarlane was one of the founders, in association with Sir (then Mr.) James Mills and Air. John Darling of the Otago Steamship Company, which eventually became the Inion Steam Ship Company, and as such has attained high rank among shipping concerns of the world. Ihe company’s first steamer was the Bruce, Captain Macfarlane going to Britain to bring her out to the colony, and under his charge she traded for a time from Dunedin to Lyttelton and Akaroa. Later Captain Macfarlane brought out to New Zealand the Taupo and Rotorua, the latter vessel being used for opening up trade between New Zealand and Sydney, Onehunga then being the last port of call in this country. Captain Macfarlane was most successful during the years he was at sea. IJe was noted for his skill as a navigator, which enabled him to avoid mishaps. After many years’ service with the Union Company, Captain Macfarlane disposed of his interests in the company, and for 12 years occupied the position of harbourmaster at Dunedin, lie has been living in retirement at Devonport for a number of years. Captain Macfarlane retained his faculties right up to the end.