About
Swimmer who on August 25, 1875 became the first documented person to swim the English Channel without artificial aid.
Before Fame
He was second mate on a ship, and won the Stanhope Medal for heroically jumping in the ocean in an attempt to save a drowning crew member.
Trivia
Swimming the English Channel brought him great fame, which he used to publish a book, titled "The Art of Swimming."
Family Life
He married Madeline Kate Chaddock on April 27, 1880, and had two children, Helen and Matthew with her; they were married until his death.
Associated With
He is the subject of a John Betjeman poem, titled "A Shropshire Lad."
