In a maritime lineage adorned with naval prowess, Admiral of the Fleet Sir Edward H. Seymour assumes command of the British squadron designated for the Hudson-Fulton celebrations in New York. Hailing from a family whose history reads like a saga of sea commanders, Sir Edward is a first cousin to Admiral Sir Michael Culme-Seymour, the venerable head of their distinguished house.
The Seymours, whose familial motto could aptly be “Admirals all,” boast an ancestral connection deeply rooted in naval traditions. Sir Edward’s uncle, Sir Michael, G.C.B., and their ancestors, including a third Sir Michael who earned the title of the first baronet, were all distinguished admirals in their own right. The family’s seafaring legacy gained prominence in 1808 when Admiral Sir Michael Seymour, the first baronet, achieved renown for capturing the Thetis after a formidable and memorable encounter at sea.
The Seymour lineage takes an intriguing turn with its roots in a Limerick alderman, who ascended to the position of Lord Mayor in 1720. However, the exact link between this Irish alderman and the English Seymours remains shrouded in uncertainty, leaving a historical mystery for those intrigued by the family’s diverse heritage.
Admiral Sir Edward Seymour, the latest torch-bearer of this illustrious maritime tradition, has carved a distinguished career marked by unwavering dedication to naval service. His naval journey commenced in 1854 as a midshipman aboard the Terrible during the Russian war, providing him with a first-hand experience of the tumultuous conflicts of the time.
For the contemporary audience, Admiral Seymour gained recognition for his outstanding contributions during the Boxer Rebellion in China. His leadership and valour in the face of adversity earned him the prestigious G.C.B. (Knight Grand Cross of the Order of the Bath), a testament to his exceptional service to the Crown and the realm.
The 19th-century exploits of the Seymours may echo through history, but it is Sir Edward’s recent achievements that resonate with the public of today. The Boxer Rebellion, a significant chapter in his storied career, showcased his strategic acumen and courage in the face of a challenging insurgency. The G.C.B. decoration, a symbol of royal acknowledgment, underscored his pivotal role during this tumultuous period.
In a symbolic gesture of naval command, Sir Edward hoisted his flag aboard the armoured cruiser Inflexible at Portsmouth, marking the commencement of his leadership in preparation for the upcoming Hudson-Fulton celebrations. The cruiser, a formidable vessel with a legacy of its own, serves as the flagship for the squadron set to embark on September 12.
The Hudson-Fulton celebrations, a momentous event commemorating the tricentennial of Henry Hudson’s exploration of the river that bears his name and the centennial of Robert Fulton’s steamboat journey, are poised to be a spectacle of historical significance. As the British squadron, under the seasoned command of Admiral Sir Edward H. Seymour, sets sail to participate in these celebrations, it adds a touch of international camaraderie to the commemoration.
Sir Edward’s leadership brings not only a wealth of naval experience but also a familial connection steeped in maritime history. The Seymours, with their motto echoing through generations, find representation once again at the helm of a significant naval mission. The Hudson-Fulton celebrations, a convergence of historical milestones, will witness the British squadron, guided by Admiral Sir Edward H. Seymour, making its mark on the international stage and weaving another chapter into the rich tapestry of naval history.
Westminster Gazette – Thursday 02 September 1909
