Harry Watts

Harry Watts: The Heroic Diver Who Saved Hundreds

Harry Watts was an English-born diver, sailor, and hero, who devoted his life to saving drowning victims and aiding in water rescues. He is remembered as a true hero, having almost single-handedly prevented the drowning deaths of nearly fifty people and aided in the rescue of an additional one-hundred-and-twenty distressed swimmers.

Early Life and Career

Harry Watts was born on December 31, 1825, in Sunderland, England, as the youngest child of Elizabeth Watts and mariner William Watts, and grew up with his four older siblings in poverty. His lack of formal education did not prevent him from becoming an accomplished sailor and saving many lives.

In his early teens, Harry traveled to Quebec as a sailor-in-training, where he rescued his first person, another nautical apprentice who had tumbled overboard. Several years later, he saved his second person, the captain of a capsized vessel. These early experiences instilled in Harry a desire to help others and led him to become a water rescuer.

Career and Important Events

From the 1860s through the 1890s, Harry Watts was employed as a diver by both the River Wear Commissioners and the Sunderland Lifeboat and Life Brigade, where he became known for his fearless and skilled rescues. He saved lives during sea disasters, river floods, and other water calamities.

Harry Watts' most famous act of heroism occurred on August 20, 1876, when he saved nearly fifty people from drowning in the River Wear after their pleasure boat collided with a steamship and capsized. Working alone and with little equipment, Harry tirelessly pulled people to safety, often performing multiple rescues at once. Despite his efforts, six people lost their lives in the accident.

Personality and Motivation

Harry Watts was known for his selflessness, bravery, and determination. He was described as a man of great courage, always ready to risk his life to save others. His motivation stemmed from his belief that every life was precious and deserving of rescue.

Family Life

Harry Watts was married twice. His first marriage was to Rebecca Smith in 1846, and they had five children together. After Rebecca's death, Harry married Sarah Ann Thompson, with whom he had two children.

Linked to Other People in the Industry

Wealthy businessman and philanthropist Andrew Carnegie met Harry Watts and described him as the most heroic man he had ever had the privilege of knowing. Harry's devotion to water rescue inspired many, and his work has continued to influence the life-saving practices of those in the industry.

Conclusion

Harry Watts devoted his life to saving others and became a hero remembered for his selflessness, athleticism, and bravery. His legacy lives on in the water rescuers who continue to be inspired by his courageous acts of heroism. He remains a symbol of hope and inspiration to those in the world of water rescue to this day.