From Ship's Cook to Baronet

David Jenkins was senior curator of the National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. He has written numerous books and articles on aspects of Welsh maritime and transport history and is also a frequent broadcaster on these topics.

"An authoritative account of an impressive and complex individual, which also throws a great deal of light on tramp shipping and maritime business over a crucial period." - Emeritus Professor Sarah Palmer, Greenwich Maritime Institute "Sir William Reardon Smith's life in shipping is an incredible journey from poverty to riches, but also gives a fascinating insight into tramp shipping and maritime life in general at that time. A compelling read, well-illustrated throughout. Highly recommended." Sea Breezes Magazine, February 2012 "... this is a remarkably detailed insight into the man, his mind and the legacy that is still around us. David Jenkins is deserving of congratulations for such an absorbing and well-researched read." David B. Clement, The South West Maritime History Society, January 212