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The Cyclopedia of New Zealand [Auckland Provincial District]

Captain John Abram

Captain John Abram, of the Union Company's fine new steamer “Hawea,” was born in 1849, at Letheringsett, Norfolk, England, was educated there, and afterwards apprenticed to Messrs Temple and Co., large shipowners trading from London to various foreign ports. On coming to Australia in 1871 he joined the service of Messrs McMeiken and Co. as officer on a boat then trading from Melbourne. He remained in that company's employment for five years, and left it to join the barque “Falcon,” then under the command of Captain Bendall, now of Wellington. Afterwards Captain Abram served as chief officer of the “Manaia,” trading from Napier, and as commander of the barque “Camillo Laurel,” and of the well-known whaler, “Isabella.” Captain Abram next took charge of the s.s. “Moa,” then used as a tow boat in Wellington, but afterwards altered by the late Captain Williams to the fine boat now flying the Union Company's flag. He remained in the “Moa” for sixteen years, during the last eight of which she traded between Wanganui and the West Coast, principally in cattle. During that period she carried fourteen thousand head of cattle in all weathers, with the loss of only five; a record for the steadiness of the boat and carefulness of the master. Captain Abram afterwards took charge of the Union Company's steamers “Ohau” and “Poherua,” and left the latter to take his present command. Captain Abram is well-known and deservedly popular in all New Zealand ports. He is married, has a family of four, and his home is in Wellington.

Hanna, photo. Captain J. Abram.

Hanna, photo. Captain J. Abram.