James Richard Lucy
| First name | James Richard |
|---|---|
| Last name | Lucy |
| Country of Origin | England |
| Date of Birth | 20/02/1866 |
| Year of Arrival in Australia | 1891 |
| Submitted by | Kieth Lucy |
Story
James Richard Lucy was born in London 20th February 1866. He was the son of a London Cab driver. Born within the sound of the Bow Bells, he was what is said to be a true Cockney.
On 20th May 1884 he accepted The Kings Shilling and became 2917 Private James Richard Lucy, Royal Marines Light Infantry.
He served recruit training at Chatham Depot, followed by time on various ships of the Royal Navy including Temeraire, Asia, Mercury, then on 24 March 1890 he embarked on HMS Katoomba. This ship was part of The Auxiliary Squadron, which was sent out to Australian waters. Over a period of some years, the squadron toured Australian ports and during a visit to Albany in Western Australia, James Richard Lucy, on 9th November 1891, in Navy parlance, ‘Did a Runner’.
For a number of years he lived under an assumed name, working as a labourer and a railway worker. In 1898 he reverted to his real name in order to marry. Sadly, his wife passed away in childbirth, and their son succumbed days later.
On 3rd June 1901 he married Alice Kate Wright, who had been an officer in the Salvation Army. He and his new wife moved around to various places in West Australia, with James working as a railway linesman. They kept up their connection with the Salvation Army. Six children were born to them.
James Richard died on 9th August 1927, he was aged 61 years. He was survived by his wife, 2 sons and 1 daughter.