This week, we had the pleasure of welcoming Rodney and Liz Jones to the Tall Ship Glenlee. Rodney is the grandson of Charles Sleggs, who served as Chief Officer of the Islamount between 1918 and 1919, before the ship passed into Italian ownership.

Rodney Jones presents the photo of his grandfather to Elizabeth Allen, and Museum Manager, Lauren Henning.

Rodney brought a wonderful gift with him: a beautifully framed photograph of his grandfather alongside his wife and eight daughters. He presented it to our Vice Chair, Elizabeth Allen, who gratefully accepted it on behalf of the Trust.

Over tea in the café, Liz shared her research into Charles Sleggs’ remarkable career. She told the story of 1918, when he stepped up to command the Islamount after the captain and much of the crew fell ill with “Java fever” shortly after leaving Indonesia.

Afterwards, we took Rodney and Liz on a tour of the Glenlee. Liz shared stories of life at sea in Sleggs’ time, bringing to life the challenges and experiences his generation of sailors faced.

We ended the morning feeling inspired, grateful, and glad to welcome Rodney and Liz as part of the Glenlee family.