The Douglas-Morris Collection of Naval Medals (Part 1)

China 1842 (S. W. K. Freeman, 2nd Master, H.M.S. Jupiter) fitted with contemporary swivel-ring and straight bar suspension and clasp ‘China 1842’ loose on ribbon as issued, good very fine and rare

This lot was sold as part of a special collection, The Douglas-Morris Collection of Naval Medals.

View
Collection

Samuel William Kearney Freeman acquired the rank of Second Master on 16 November 1841. He served on board the JUPITER troopship at the blockade of the Canton river and at the capture of Chusan, Chinghae, and other places during the China War of 1841-42. He was afterwards employed in the VOLAGE, ATHOLL and Hercules troop and store ships, and in the TRITON steamer. He was promoted to the rank of Master on 1 August 1849. From December 1852 until paid off in 1857, Freeman served in the BARRACOUTA steamer chiefly on the East India and China station. In 1855 he visited the shores of Kamtschatka in search of the Russian squadron, and in 1856-57 he was an active participator in the gallant operations on the coast of China, as a result of which Commander Fortescue was rewarded with promotion to Captain. He served aboard PEMBROKE (1858-61), and in 1862 was employed in the Coast Guard Service receiving promotion to Staff Commander on 1 August 1864, and was ultimately retired on 31 March 1870 whilst serving as an Agent for Mails. He died in 1888.

Confirmed on the medal rolls as one of the 101 recipients of the 1st China War medal with ‘China 1842’ and/or 2nd China War clasps.