Joseph Russell (shipbuilder) facts for kids

Joseph Russell (born August 17, 1786 – died March 10, 1855) was a Scottish-born businessman and shipbuilder. He became very important in New Brunswick, Canada.

Early Life and Business Beginnings

Joseph Russell was born in Clackmannan, Clackmannanshire, Scotland. His father was Thomas Russell. When he was young, Joseph joined the Royal Navy.

In 1819, he married Ann Agnes Hunter in Chatham, New Brunswick. Russell owned many buildings in Chatham, including a hotel. He also helped start the Chatham Fire Company in 1824. This group helped put out fires in the town.

Becoming a Shipbuilder

Russell started building ships in 1827. In 1831, a big fire destroyed some of his buildings. But he didn't give up! In 1832, he bought a shipyard in Chatham from Francis Peabody.

In 1839, Russell sold his shipyard to Joseph Cunard. He then moved his shipbuilding business to Beaubears Island. This island became a very important place for his work. He hired John Harley as his main shipbuilder. George Burchill became the general manager for his shipyard.

Russell also tried to start a bank called the Bank of Miramichi in 1837. He worked with other businessmen, but the bank didn't succeed. Joseph Russell also helped his community by serving as an "overseer of the poor." This meant he helped manage support for people who needed it in Chatham and later in Nelson parish.

Joseph Russell's Faith and New Journey

Joseph Russell and his family were originally part of the Anglican Church. Around 1841, they became Mormons. This was a big change for them.

In 1846, Russell wanted to help other Mormons. He offered one of his ships to British Mormons who wanted to travel to the Salt Lake Valley. This valley is a special place for Mormons. However, the plan didn't work out. The church in Britain decided not to pay for the trip.

Moving to Utah

In 1850, Joseph Russell sold his business to John Harley and George Burchill. He then moved to the Utah Territory in the United States. He helped pay for a company called the Deseret Manufacturing Company. This company wanted to make beet sugar. But this business also didn't do well.

Joseph Russell passed away in Salt Lake City, Utah, when he was 68 years old.

Remembering Joseph Russell

On October 15, 2005, a special historical sign was put up on Beaubears Island. This sign tells about Joseph Russell's life. It also explains his connections to Beaubears Island and his Mormon faith.

The sign was put there by three groups working together: Parks Canada, the Mormon Historic Sites Foundation, and Friends Of Beaubears Island Inc.