Lost Gold Pocket Watch from Historic Shipwreck Returns to Boston After 165 Years

Lost Gold Pocket Watch from Historic Shipwreck Returns to Boston After 165 Years

In a remarkable turn of events, a gold pocket watch belonging to British journalist Herbert Ingram has finally returned to its rightful home in England after being lost in the depths of Lake Michigan for an astounding 165 years. This watch was believed to have gone down with Ingram during the tragic sinking of the steamship Lady Elgin in 1860.

Tragedy at Lake Michigan

The Lady Elgin met her fate on September 8, 1860, when a storm caused her to collide with a schooner off the coast of Winnetka, Illinois. This catastrophic incident resulted in the loss of more than 300 lives, as many passengers were trapped below decks and unable to reach safety. Among the casualties were Ingram and his son, who perished during the shipwreck.

After the disaster, Ingram’s body was recovered and returned to his native England. He was laid to rest in his hometown of Boston, Lincolnshire, where his legacy as a prominent figure lives on.

Discovery of the Pocket Watch

In 1992, a diving team discovered Ingram’s gold pocket watch amidst the wreckage of the Lady Elgin, which was scattered over an area of more than a mile on the lakebed. However, the watch remained out of the public eye until May of this year when it was given to a historian for further examination.

Valerie Van Heest, co-founder of the Michigan Shipwreck Research Association, took part in documenting the wreckage. She reflected on the discovery: “Back in 1992, a trio of divers stumbled upon this extraordinary find. A gold pocket watch, an unexpected treasure from a prominent figure’s tragic past.”

The Legacy of Herbert Ingram

Herbert Ingram was not only a member of Parliament but also the founder of the London Illustrated News, a pioneering publication known for integrating images into journalistic reporting. This innovative approach made him a significant figure in the history of journalism.

Upon realizing the importance of the watch, Van Heest stated that it truly belonged in Boston, England, where a statue honoring Ingram still stands. The watch was finally donated to the Boston Guildhall Museum, which was preparing an exhibition dedicated to Ingram’s life.

Return to Boston

The watch’s return was celebrated at the Boston Guildhall Museum on May 24, an occasion marked as a significant moment for the town and its inhabitants. Sarah Sharpe, a local councilor, shared her sentiments regarding the watch’s homecoming, emphasizing its importance as a piece of the town’s heritage and a symbol of Ingram’s impact.

The museum noted, “Today, Boston came together to honor the life and legacy of Herbert Ingram — journalist, reformer, and one of our town’s most influential figures. The return of his long-lost gold watch, recovered from the wreck of the Lady Elgin, is a testament to our enduring connection with history.”

A Day of Reflection

Celebrations included a series of events at the museum and the Ingram Memorial, allowing attendees to reflect on Ingram’s contributions to journalism and society. The museum encapsulated the essence of the day in a statement, highlighting that Boston’s history is indeed alive and ticking.

This extraordinary journey of the pocket watch illustrates not only the enduring impact of individual lives on history but also the importance of remembering and honoring those who shaped our world.

Ingram’s Influence on Modern Journalism

Herbert Ingram’s legacy continues to resonate, particularly in the realm of visual journalism. His visionary approach laid the groundwork for future generations of journalists who employ imagery as a powerful storytelling tool.

As the watch finds its new home in Boston, it serves as a reminder of the transformative role that media can play in society, connecting communities while immortalizing the past.

Looking Forward

As the Boston Guildhall Museum prepares to showcase the watch, visitors can anticipate an engaging exhibition that delves into the history surrounding Ingram and the Lady Elgin. This significant artifact will undoubtedly draw both local and international interest.

The collaborative efforts that led to the watch’s return exemplify the unbreakable thread of history that connects us all. The return not only commemorates a tragic event but also celebrates the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of remembering our past.