166. Veronica Vondy on her History-Shaping Ancestor

When Veronica Vondy decided to research her family tree, it led to an ancestor with a surprising story – the saving of the man who founded the RNLI

Just 6 years after the RNLI was formed, its founder - Sir William Hillary - was himself thrown overboard whilst going to the aid of the steamer, St George, in Douglas Harbour, Isle of Man.

Veronica Vondy, from Peel on the Isle of Man’s west coast, tells the story of how her family research led her all the way back to the lifeboat that went to the aid of the steamer that day. Onboard, along with the crew, was a coxswain whose gallantry would be recognised three times by the RNLI. His name, Veronica would learn, was Isaac Vondy.

200 Voices is produced by Adventurous Audio for the RNLI   

Interview by Adventurous Audio

Soundtrack composed and performed by Jon Nicholls   

The RNLI is a charity celebrating 200 years of saving lives at sea - find out more at RNLI.org/200