When a then 13-year-old William Elliott wrote his (rather thoughtful) letter, it was most likely a sunny day on the 11th August 1897. He promptly shoved it down the side of his pew – eagerly hoping that it would be noticed by someone in the coming years - we doubt however that he realised that well over a century later we would still be talking, writing about, and most importantly remembering him.
When his letter was discovered during the renovation of The Holy Trinity Church it certainly triggered hundreds of conversations, hours of research and painstaking restoration. In fact, his story went ‘viral’, inspiring international press, a writing project, W. Elliott writing kits, and even song's to be written about him!
Most recently William’s story has inspired a Radio 4 drama which is a Sister Sounds Production, written by Jay Sykes. Due to air on the 1st April 2024 'Williams Castle' includes elements of documentary, and features both factual and imagined past and present, and interview recordings with people who were inspired to research the story behind William's letter. The soundtrack will feature songs written by local singer song-writers Paige Temperley and Holly Rees. You can learn more about it here.
As for William, we have continued to research his rather full life after leaving the Sunderland Orphan Asylum, learning that he went on to move to America at 19 and enlist in the US Navy. After a 42 year glittering career, Commander Elliott lived until he was 84.
As requested by William himself, we will endeavour to share his wonderful story and remember him for many years to come.