George Stewart - Midshipman

Probable Loyalist, age 21

Stewart's father claimed descent from the half-brother of Queen Mary Stuart, to whom she gave possession of the Orkney & Shetland Islands. He (the father) was born and was living on his property on the Island of Ronaldshay (Orkneys), but finding that his family could not enjoy the benefits of being sent to school, moved thence to the town of Stromness where he built a house.

The port was much frequented by shipping, having a very commodious harbour, where homeward bound ships often ducked for shelter. Captain Cook, on his third voyage, was one of these, and it was at this time that Bligh became acquainted with the family. They had been especially kind to him.

George was 5'7" tall, with 'good' complexion, dark hair, slender build, small face, and black eyes. He was tattooed on his left breast with a star, and on his left arm with a heart and darts. He was personally recommended by Bligh for inclusion in the Bounty crew. Originally he was signed on as a midshipman, but after several young men of more distinguished families were recruited (Hayward, Hallett, and Heywood), he was reduced to AB. Even though he was demoted on paper, he continued to serve as a junior officer (a relatively common practice, and a way that less well-born youths could "work" their way into the officer ranks...indeed, Bligh himself had taken that route!).

He remained on the Bounty after the mutiny due to lack of space in the Launch, although he is not thought to have taken any part in the mutiny himself. He was one of the four crewmembers who voluntarily came on board the 'Pandora' immediately after it docked to report the mutiny to Capt. Edwards. To their somewhat naive surprise, they were immediately placed in irons. Surprisingly, Stewart was never released from his handcuffs, and indeed drowned in chains when the ship sank. Unlike Heywood, Byrne and Coleman who were also forced to stay with the Bounty after the mutiny, fate did not allow him the opportunity to clear his name in court.