B: 1535 - Ipswich, Suffolk, England D: 1603 - Ipswich, Suffolk, England
"The Mariner" He sailed around the world (the third trip ever) with Sir Thomas Cavendish, English navigator (1555-1592). He left Plymouth, Eng., 2 Jul 1586 and returned 9 Sep 1588. His capacity on the ship is unknown. He owned his own home on Brook Street in Ipswich. A fine residence, it was remodelled in 1639, but much of the original panelling remained intact. A large and ornate fireplace with its surrounding panels became quite noted, especially for three ancient and curious paitings which were hung bove the mantel. Gage's History says of them: "In 1802, Craven Ord, Esq., exhibited to the Society of Antiquaries three ancient paintings for 'Olivers'. The first represented a terrestrial globe, with an inscription recording the date of Thomas Eldred's voyage around the world. The second represented a ship, notworthy in that it is fourmasted - doubtless the ship in which his noteworthy voyage was made. The third is the portrait of an old man with ruffled collar, spiked beard and mustaches, holding in his right hand an equinoxial dial bearing the date 1602, and above his right shoulder a jacob's staff. It is the portrait of Thomas Eldred, the Mariner". These paintings were removed fromthe Eldred House by Thomas' son, John of Colchester, and placed in his country manor, "Olivers", near Stanway, Essex. Later the paintings were sold, and in 1929 were still in existence, owned by Mr. J. D. Cobbold, Hollwells, England. In 1921, his home was known as the "Neptune Inn". He was also a merchandiser of sea-faring supplies in Ipswich most of his life; i.e., a ship chandler. Youngest son of Nicholas. When he was 49 years old, and had a successfully established business, He sailed with Thomas Cavendish around the world. He left his business, wife, and children. They set sail in three vessels: The Desire, the content, and the Hugh Gallant. Of the oroiginal complement of 123 men, only 50 returned, and the Desire was the only ship that made it home. The paintings were at one time at the Christchurch Mansion in Ipswich. He is probably buried at St Clements Church, Ipswich, Suffolk, Eng.
Margery STUDD
B: 1540 - Ipswich, Suffolk, England D: 23 Jun 1603 - Ipswich, Suffolk, England