Newcastle University

Admiral Lord Collingwood

Cuthbert Collingwood was born on the 26th of September [1750?] in Newcastle upon Tyne. Educated at the Royal Grammar School in Jesmond, Collingwood joined the Royal Navy, serving on the frigate Shannon aged 11.

Collingwood spent the majority of his life at sea, though he did have a house in Morpeth which he visited only twice. Rising steadily through the ranks and he was second in command to Lord Nelson at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805, taking command on Nelson's death.

Collingwood spent the remaining 5 years of his life at sea, he died on his way home to England after finally being gived permission to return due to his failing health. He was given a hero's burial in St Paul's Cathedral in London and a monument was erected to him in Tynemouth.