Person:John Merritt (20)

1869 - Birth indexed as John MERRITT, son of Thomas MERRITT and Sarah CRAWLEY.

1889 - The following report appeared in the Hobart Mercury on 8 April: FATAL BOATING ACCIDENT. THREE YOUTHS DROWNED AT CURRIE RIVER. LEFROY, SUNDAY. A sad and fatal accident occurred about six miles from here today, at a place known as the mouth of the Currie River, a public resort for picnic parties, etc. A party left here on Saturday on a fishing and shooting excursion, and all went well until 9 o'clock this morning, when three of their number, named John Merritt aged 19, Chas. Floyd aged about 16, and Henry Collins aged about 18, started off fishing, and proceeded to sea for that purpose. When 300yds. out, and in the act of dropping their anchor, the boat sank, and left its occupants struggling in the water. Merritt and Floyd being strong swimmers would have probably reached the shore, but Collins who could not swim, was seen to grasp the other lads around the necks, and suddenly, all disappeared. About eight persons are now on the scene preparing to drag for the bodies, but it is feared all attempts will prove fruitless. Watches will be kept all night by sympathisers.