Bighi Naval Hospital Cemetery

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An Architectural and Historical Chronicle of the Lost Naval Burial Grounds at Villa Bighi

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History & Origins

Serving the premier British medical facility in the Mediterranean, the Royal Naval Hospital Bighi (RNH Bighi) was a cornerstone of British military infrastructure in the Maltese Islands from its opening in 1832 until its closure in 1970. To accommodate the casualties of naval engagements, epidemics, and service incidents, a dedicated naval hospital cemetery was established on-site to bury officers, ratings, and family members.

The active lifespan of the cemetery saw intensive use throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries. However, mid-20th-century civic developments, defensive modifications, and the eventual downsizing of the naval complex led to the decision to clear the burial ground entirely, transferring its legacy elsewhere in Kalkara.

The Kalkara Naval Cemetery Connections

Today, no physical graves remain at the original Bighi hospital grounds. Instead, the memories and physical remains of those interred there reside roughly one mile away at the Kalkara Naval Cemetery (Capuccini). Within Plot D of the Kalkara grounds, three specific gravestones stand as vital testaments to the original Bighi site, mapping out the timeline of its clearance and relocation.

Grave No. 846: The Lost Memorial Book

This collective monument marks the resting place of hundreds of early service personnel and honors those laid to rest at Bighi during its half-century peak:

“THIS STONE STANDS IN MEMORY OF THOSE ORIGINALLY INTERRED IN THE CEMETERY OF THE ROYAL NAVAL HOSPITAL BIGHI

IN THE YEARS 1846 - 1901

THEIR NAMES ARE FOREVER RECORDED IN A MEMORIAL BOOK

IN THE CHURCH OF ST.OSWALD ROYAL NAVAL HOSPITAL MALTA”

Historical Note: Despite extensive archival searches, the current whereabouts of the Memorial Book of St. Oswald mentioned on this monument remain entirely unknown to researchers and genealogists.

Grave No. 849: The 1968 Relocation

Documenting the final phase of the cemetery clearances just prior to the hospital's decommissioning:

“REMOVED FROM BIGHI NAVAL CEMETERY

DECEMBER 1968 AND RE-INTERRED HERE

14TH JANUARY 1969”

Grave No. 851: The 1966 Relocation

Recording the earlier phase of exhumations and transfers conducted by naval authorities:

“REMOVED FROM BIGHI NAVAL CEMETERY,

DECEMBER 1966 AND RE-INTERRED HERE

25TH MARCH 1967.”

Archival Burial Records & Transcriptions

The names of individuals initially interred at Bighi, including those accounted for on Graves 849 and 851, form a critical part of Malta’s British-era genealogical tapestry. Below is the comprehensive directory of identified individuals, missing records, and transcribed historical listings from the site.

[ Up-Coming Burial Registry Data Placeholder ]

The comprehensive historical burial records, transcriptions, and name indices for the Bighi Naval Hospital Cemetery are currently being formatted. These include the verified identities corresponding to Kalkara Grave Nos. 849 and 851. Please check back shortly for the fully updated historical list.

Name Rank / Role Ship / Unit Date of Death Notes & Burial Location
ABBOTT, William Captain of the Hold HMS Daphne Between 1 Jan & 30 Jun 1841 Died in Bighi Royal Naval Hospital.
ALDRIDGE, William Boy HMS Tyne Between 1 Jan & 30 Jun 1841 Died in Bighi Royal Naval Hospital.
ALLISON, Ernest — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
ANDREWS, George Boy HMS Thunderer Between 1 Jul & 30 Sep 1841 Died in Bighi Royal Naval Hospital.
ANNESLEY, Temple A.F. 2nd Lieutenant Royal Marines / HMS Russell 3 Jan 1838 —
APPLETON, George H. Paymaster HMS Centaur 18 Feb 1857 Admitted to Bighi Hospital on 17 Feb with spinal problems; found dead the next morning.
ARNOLD, Edward Pope — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 849 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
ARTHUR, Richard — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
BADCOCK, Charles — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
BAILY, Ernest — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
BAILY, James — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
BAKER, George — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
BAKER, George — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara./td>
BAKER, Henry AB HMS Wolverine 10 Feb 1838 —
BAKER, James — HMS Alfred 22 Jan 1832 (Interment) Sent to Bighi Naval Hospital for interment; post mortem performed by Dr. John Liddell.
BAKER, Thomas — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
BALDERSON, H. Able Seaman HMS Powerful Between 1 Oct & 31 Dec 1840 Died in Bighi Royal Naval Hospital.
BALL, Isaac — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
BARBAR, Mr. Purser — 1832 (Interment) Body sent to Bighi Naval Hospital for interment; post mortem performed by Dr. John Liddell.
BARLOW, Lizzie — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 849 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
BATES, James — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
BATES, Robert Able Seaman HMS Revenge Between 1 Jul & 30 Sep 1841 Died in Bighi Royal Naval Hospital.
BATT, Gavin 2nd Officer HMS Conqueror 16 Jul 1859 Died at Naval Hospital following a fall from his horse near St. Julians Tower. Post mortem revealed fractured skull and concussion.
BELCHER, William Able Seaman HMS Britannia Between 1 Jan & 30 Jun 1841 Died in Bighi Royal Naval Hospital.
BENT, R.R. Lieutenant HMS Vengeance 1 Aug 1853 Died in Bighi Naval Hospital.
BIGG, Alfred Leonard — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 849 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
BIRCH, George Able Seaman HMS Princess Charlotte Between 1 Apr & 30 Jun 1839 Died in Bighi Royal Navy Hospital.
BLANCHARD, E. James — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 849 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
BODDY, John — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 849 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
BOHANNA, Richard — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
BOILEAU, C.A. Lieutenant Rifle Brigade 3 Aug 1855 Wounded on 18 Jun at the assault of the Malakoff (Crimea). Buried with military honours in Royal Naval Hospital Cemetery.
BOSTOCK, C.H. Clerk HMS Howe 17 Dec 1842 Died in the Naval Hospital.
BOULTON, Arthur — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
BOWEN, John Ordinary Seaman HMS Edinburgh Between 1 Oct & 31 Dec 1840 Died in Bighi Royal Naval Hospital.
BRADFORD, Charles Ordinary Seaman Hind Cutter 24 Aug 1837 Body sent from Bighi Naval Hospital for interment.
BRENAN, Thomas — HMS Barham 20 Dec 1832 (Interment) Body sent to Bighi Naval Hospital for interment; post mortem performed by Dr. John Liddell.
BROOKE, William Seaman HMS Marlborough 24 Jan 1862 Died in Bighi Naval Hospital from injuries sustained after falling from aloft.
BROTHER, Joseph Seaman HMS Spartiate 14 May 1829 —
BROTHERTON, Thomas — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
BROWN, James Gunner HMS Hazard Between 1 Jan & 30 Jun 1841 Died in Bighi Royal Naval Hospital.
BROWN, Percy — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
BRUCE, W. — HMS Weazle 1 Jul 1840 (Buried) Died in Bighi Royal Naval Hospital.
BUCHAN, William — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
BULL, James AB HMS Princess Charlotte 7 Mar 1840 —
BURGESS, George — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
BURKE, [Unnamed Baby] Daughter of Staff Surgeon Bighi RN Hospital 16 Apr 1868 Born 7 Apr 1868 at Bighi RN Hospital to Mrs. John Page Burke; died 9 days later.
BURNS, Michael Seaman HMS Revenge 12 Jul 1829 —
BURROW, Frederick — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 849 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
BURROWS, John — HMS Britannia 30 May 1830 (Interment) Body sent to Bighi Naval Hospital for interment; post mortem performed by Dr. John Liddell.
BUTLER, John — HMS Donegal 9 Feb 1832 (Interment) Body sent to Bighi Naval Hospital for interment; post mortem performed by Dr. John Liddell.
Butler, William — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
BUTTON, Richard William — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 849 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
CARPENTER, Jesse — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
CARROL, Frederick — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
CHAPMAN, Sabina — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 849 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
CHARTON, F. — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 849 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
CHURCH, John — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 849 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
CHURCHER, Benjamin Ordinary Seaman HMS Princess Charlotte Between 1 Apr & 30 Jun 1839 Died in Bighi Royal Navy Hospital.
CHURCHER, Archibald E. — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 849 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
CILTRON, Erza — — — Listed as Erza (sic).Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
CLARK, Emmanuel Royal Marine HMS Vengeance 9 May 1853 (Buried) Missing for some days; body found floating off Isola Point. Buried in the Naval Hospital Cemetery.
CLASS, John — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 849 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
CLEAR, Dridson — HMS Spartiate 18 Oct Year not recorded.
CLIPTON, William — HMS Windsor Castle 31 Oct 1830 (Interment) Body sent to Bighi Naval Hospital for interment; post mortem performed by Dr. John Liddell.
COLE, John — HMS Gloucester 2 Aug 1830 (Interment) Body sent to Bighi Naval Hospital for interment; post mortem performed by Dr. John Liddell.
COLE, William H. — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 849 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
CONWAY, John Boy HMS Howe Between 1 Jan & 30 Jun 1841 Died in Bighi Royal Naval Hospital.
COOK, John AB HMS Asia 12 Mar 1829 —
COWARD, Henry Boy HMS Vanguard 4 Mar 1839 —
CRANBROOK, Clara Alice — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 849 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
CROKER, Thomas — HMS Asia 24 Oct 1829 —
CROTHERS, Thomas — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
CRYLLS, Felix — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
CUDDEFORD, Henry — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
CULLIN, George Able Seaman HMS Edinburgh Between 1 Oct & 31 Dec 1840 Died in Bighi Royal Naval Hospital.
DALLAS, J.R. — — 1 Dec 1829 —
DANCER, J.H. — HMS Alfred 10 Mar 1832 (Interment) Body sent to Bighi Naval Hospital for interment; post mortem performed by Dr. John Liddell.
DANNELS, James Ordinary Seaman HMS Thunderer Between 1 Jan & 30 Jun 1841 Died in Bighi Royal Naval Hospital.
DAVIS, William O/S HMS Pembroke 2 Jan 1839 Ordinary Seaman.
DAY, George Seaman HMS Vanguard 22 Dec 1838 —
DEACON, Albert — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
DENMAN, Kate — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 849 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
DENMAN, William J. — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 849 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
DENT, Edward M. — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
DENTRY, Edward Able Seaman HMS Powerful Between 1 Jan & 30 Jun 1841 Died in Bighi Royal Naval Hospital.
DIXON, Edward AB HMS Russell 19 Apr 1837 —
DODDERELL, John Boy HMS Britannia Between 1 Jan & 30 Jun 1841 Died in Bighi Royal Naval Hospital.
DONOVAN, Dennis — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 849 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
DOUGLAS, William Q.M. HMS Princess Charlotte 22 Jan 1838 Quartermaster.
DRISCOLL, Thomas L/M HMS Ganges Between 1 Jan & 30 Jun 1841 Landman / Marine. Died in Bighi Royal Naval Hospital.
DUTTON, Harry — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
EARLE, Edward Able Seaman HMS Vanguard Between 1 Jan & 30 Jun 1841 Died in Bighi Royal Naval Hospital.
EASTWOOD, Charles Marine HMS Ocean 20 Jul 1829 —
EDDY, Percy Walter — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 849 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
EDNEY, Alfred — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 849 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
EDWARDS, John Seaman — 23 Jul 1829 (Buried) Brought from Messina for burial.
ELLIS, Henry — HMS Barham 29 Dec 1832 (Interment) Body sent to Bighi Naval Hospital for interment; post mortem performed by Dr. John Liddell.
ESHELBY, Mr. Surgeon HMS Scylla 17 May 1831 (Interment) Body sent to Bighi Naval Hospital for interment; post mortem performed by Dr. John Liddell.
EVANS, John Lieutenant / Commander HM Steam packet Polyphemus 21 Feb 1843 Struck by apoplexy on 20 Feb at his residence in Strada San Giovanni. Died at Bighi Naval Hospital.
FERGUSON, John Captain's Coxswain HMS Vesuvius Between 1 Jan & 30 Jun 1841 Died in Bighi Royal Naval Hospital.
FIELD, James — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
FORD, Robert — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
FOWLER, Robert — HMS Madagascar 29 Oct 1830 (Interment) Body sent to Bighi Naval Hospital for interment; post mortem performed by Dr. John Liddell.
FRANCIS, David Seaman HMS Pembroke 29 Mar 1837 Body sent from Bighi Naval Hospital for interment.
FREEMAN, William — HMS Asia 10 Nov 1836 —
FRIAR, John — HMS Saumarez 22 Apr 1830 (Interment) Body sent to Bighi Naval Hospital for interment; post mortem performed by Dr. John Liddell.
GARDNER, William — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
GEER, Stephen — HMS Vanguard 15 Nov 1836 —
GILHAM, George Boy HMS Barham 1 Dec 1836 —
GILHAM, W. Able Seaman HMS Rodney Between 1 Oct & 31 Dec 1840 Died in Bighi Royal Naval Hospital.
GILLARD, Thomas — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
GILLOVAN, John Carpenter's Mate HMS Cambridge Between 1 Jan & 30 Jun 1841 Died in Bighi Royal Naval Hospital.
GIRLING, John Boy HMS Asia 19 Sep 1837 Died in Bighi Royal Naval Hospital.
GLANVILLE, William Ordinary Seaman HMS Minden Between 1 Apr & 30 Jun 1839 Died in Bighi Royal Navy Hospital.
GLASS, Richard — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
GODWIN, Philip Boy HMS Russell 18 Jul 1837 —
GOLDING, H. — HMS Donegal 6 Feb 1832 (Interment) Body sent to Bighi Naval Hospital for interment; post mortem performed by Dr. John Liddell.
GOUGH, Robert Able Seaman HMS Vanguard Between 1 Jul & 30 Sep 1841 Died in Bighi Royal Naval Hospital.
GRANVILLE, W.H. Clerk HMS Vanguard Between 1 Jan & 30 Jun 1841 Died in Bighi Royal Naval Hospital.
GRAY, Archibald — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
GRAY, Charles — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
GRAY, George — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
GREGORY, George — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
GREGORY, John A. Midshipman HMS Powerful 22 Dec 1849 Died at Bighi Naval Hospital, aged 16 years, 6 months. Second son of Dr. G. Gregory of London.
GREY, Walter — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
GRIFFIN, John — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 849 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
GUNNING, Richard AB HMS Pembroke 23 Mar 1838 —
HACKING, Joseph — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 849 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
HALL, George Able Seaman HMS Cambridge Between 1 Jan & 30 Jun 1841 Died in Bighi Royal Naval Hospital.
HAMILTON, John — HMS St. Vincent 30 Oct 1831 (Interment) Body sent to Bighi Naval Hospital for interment; post mortem performed by Dr. John Liddell.
HAMMOND, Mr. Clerk HMS [Unspecified] 27 Jan 1831 (Interment) Body sent to Bighi Naval Hospital for interment; post mortem performed by Dr. John Liddell.
HARDIE, David — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
HARDING, J. Purser HMS Favorite 17 Jul 1830 (Interment) Body sent to Bighi Naval Hospital for interment; post mortem performed by Dr. John Liddell.
HARLOW, William Able Seaman HMS Britannia Between 1 Jul & 30 Sep 1841 Died in Bighi Royal Naval Hospital.
HASTY, George Masters Assistant HMS Rattlesnake 9 Jun 1831 (Interment) Body sent to Bighi Naval Hospital for interment; post mortem performed by Dr. John Liddell.
HAWKIN, Joseph A. — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
HAWKINS, John — HMS St. Vincent 16 Nov 1832 (Interment) Body sent to Bighi Naval Hospital for interment; post mortem performed by Dr. John Liddell.
HAZEL, Violet — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 849 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
HEATH, Emma — — — Listed as "His remains" in source text. Remains placed in the mass grave 849 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
HEATH, Grace — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 849 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
HEATH, Mable — — — Listed as Mable (sic). Remains placed in the mass grave 849 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
HEATH, William — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 849 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
HEATH, William — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
HERALD, Samuel — HMS St. Vincent 15 Jul 1831 (Interment) Body sent to Bighi Naval Hospital for interment; post mortem performed by Dr. John Liddell.
HILL, Emily — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 849 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
HOARE, Charles Able Seaman HMS Princess Charlotte Between 1 Jan & 30 Jun 1841 Died in Bighi Royal Naval Hospital.
HOLLOWAY, J.B. — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
HOOPER, Frederick — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
HOWARD, Abraham — — 11 Aug 1829 —
HUNTINGTON, Alfred — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
INMAN, William B. Midshipman HMS Marlborough 19 Nov 1861 Aged 19. Died at Bighi Naval Hospital from a fractured skull after falling from the main top during exercise stations.
JACKSON, John — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
JACKSON, William — HMS Madagascar 30 Jan 1831 (Interment) Body sent to Bighi Naval Hospital for interment; post mortem performed by Dr. John Liddell.
JACOBS, Thomas — HMS St. Vincent 22 Jul 1831 (Interment) Body sent to Bighi Naval Hospital for interment; post mortem performed by Dr. John Liddell.
JAMES, William Ordinary Seaman HMS Cambridge Between 1 Oct & 31 Dec 1840 Died in Bighi Royal Naval Hospital.
JARVIS, Henry C. — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 849 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
JOHNS, W. — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 849 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
JOHNSON, Harry J. — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
JOHNSON, John Quartermaster HMS Edinburgh Between 1 Jan & 30 Jun 1841 Died in Bighi Royal Naval Hospital.
JOHNSON, William — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 849 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
JOLLIFFE, Malcolm — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
JONES, Charles H. — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
KAY, William S. — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
KETTLE, George — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
KING, George Boatswain HMS Ceylon 9 Jun 1847 Died at the Naval Hospital the next day following an accidental fall from a gangway into a boat, severely injuring his spine and head.
KING, James Captain of the Mast HMS Ganges Between 1 Jan & 30 Jun 1841 Died in Bighi Royal Naval Hospital.
KITNEY, Thomas — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
KNIGHT, Thomas — HMS Melville 18 Jun 1830 (Interment) Body sent to Bighi Naval Hospital for interment; post mortem performed by Dr. John Liddell.
LACEY, John — — 16 Jan 1829 —
LADSTONE, John — HMS Britannia 22 Nov 1829 —
LAMB, James Ordinary Seaman HMS Vanguard Between 1 Jan & 30 Jun 1841 Died in Bighi Royal Naval Hospital.
LAMPARD, Frederick — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 849 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
LANGLEY, William Caulker HMS Bellerophon Between 1 Jan & 30 Jun 1841 Died in Bighi Royal Naval Hospital.
LAUGHLIN, Martin Ordinary Seaman HMS Pembroke 14 Nov 1837 Died in Bighi Royal Naval Hospital.
LAWLER, H. Boy HMS Bellerophon May 1870 Died in Bighi Naval Hospital from multiple injuries sustained in a fall from aloft.
LEACH, James AB HMS Wellesley 12 Mar 1829 Able Seaman.
LEGG, Walter Quartermaster HMS Wellesley 12 Oct 1829 Listed as Qtr.Mstr in record.
LEONARD, Thomas O/S HMS Bellerophon 6 Apr 1839 Ordinary Seaman.
LEWIS, John H. Boy HMS Britannia Between 1 Jan & 30 Jun 1841 Died in Bighi Royal Naval Hospital.
LIDDELL, Amy Frances Daughter of E.S. Liddell — 28 May 1868 Died at Bighi Royal Naval Hospital, aged 8 months and two weeks.
LIDDELL, Ethel Mary Geraldine Infant Daughter of E.S. Liddell — 25 Nov 1871 Died in Bighi Royal Naval Hospital, aged 5 months.
LINNELL, Frederick — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
LLEWELLYN, Owen J. Surgeon HMS Hydra 3 Aug 1867 Died on a Saturday at Royal Naval Hospital Bighi after being brought from his ship. Buried in the Hospital Cemetery.
LOCK, W. Lieutenant HM Steamer Agamemnon 18 Jan 1854 Aged 29 years. Died at Bighi Naval Hospital from injuries sustained in an accident.
LONGHURST, Robert — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
LORAM, Richard — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
LOSCOMBE, John Seaman HMS Asia 1 Apr 1829 —
LUBE, Edward — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
LUCAS, John D/Man HMS Thunderer 1 Mar 1836 —
McKAY, J.E. — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 849 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
McKENZIE, Robert Seaman HMS Tyne 22 Feb 1839 —
McLELAN, Neal — HMS Britannia 31 May 1830 (Interment) Body sent to Bighi Naval Hospital for interment; post mortem performed by Dr. John Liddell.
McMILLAN, William — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
MANN, Walter — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 849 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
MASON, George Able Seaman HMS Ganges Between 1 Jan & 30 Jun 1841 Died in Bighi Royal Naval Hospital.
MATHERALL, Thomas — HMS Britannia 24 Mar 1830 (Interment) Body sent to Bighi Naval Hospital for interment; post mortem performed by Dr. John Liddell.
MEAD, George E. — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 849 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
MEDLEN, William Boy 2nd Class HMS Implacable Between 1 Jan & 30 Jun 1841 Died in Bighi Royal Naval Hospital.
MIFFLINGS, John — HMS Spartiate 6 Oct 1829 —
MILLARD, John Boatswain HMS Blonde 22 Jan 1829 —
MILLICHAP, William — HMS St. Vincent 12 Dec 1831 (Interment) Body sent to Bighi Naval Hospital for interment; post mortem performed by Dr. John Liddell.
MILNER, [First Name Unknown] Paymaster and Purser HMS Gladiator 7 Apr 1848 Died on a Friday at Royal Naval Hospital, Bighi.
MITCHELL, N. Pilot Her Majesty's Service 8 Oct 1847 Died on a Friday at the Naval Hospital after a long, painful illness. Served as a service pilot for 20 years. Funeral held at the hospital the next day; left two daughters for whom a Fleet subscription was raised.
MIZZI, Francesco Seaman HMS Asia 30 Dec 1836 —
MONDAY, John — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
MOODY, Andrew Assistant Surgeon HMS Zebra 19 Jun 1840 (Buried) Died in Bighi Royal Naval Hospital.
MOORCROFT, Edward J. — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 849 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
MORRIS, H. — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
MORRIS, Joshua — HMS Cordelia 3 Nov 1831 (Interment) Body sent to Bighi Naval Hospital for interment; post mortem performed by Dr. John Liddell.
MUNRO, Henry — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
NEW, Thomas — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
NEWMAN, L.J.A. Lieutenant HMS Ceylon 8 Oct 1837 Committed suicide by taking arsenic; had previously served 16 years as a Mate. Buried in the hospital cemetery.
NICHOLAS, Richard — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 849 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
NORTON, James — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 849 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
NYE, George — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
OVERDEN, W. — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
OVERTON, John — HMS Bellerophon 12 Dec 1838 —
OWEN, A.R. Captain HMS Falcon 8 Jun 1866 Died in Bighi Royal Navy Hospital. Had been appointed to his ship in Australia and was about to leave Malta to join it.
PALLETT, James — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
PARKER, H.H. 2nd Master HMS Bellerophon Between 1 Jan & 30 Jun 1841 Died in Bighi Royal Naval Hospital.
PARSONS, Frederick — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
PATTULO, Stewart R. Sub-Lieutenant HMS Devastation 9 Aug 1875 Died in Bighi Hospital; buried in the hospital cemetery on 11 Aug.
PAWLEY, Alfred — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
PAYNE, John — HMS Pelican 15 Sep 1830 (Interment) Body sent to Bighi Naval Hospital for interment; post mortem performed by Dr. John Liddell.
PEACOCK, Alexander — HMS Britannia 4 Jun 1831 (Interment) Body sent to Bighi Naval Hospital for interment; post mortem performed by Dr. John Liddell.
PEARCE, John AB HMS Talavera 22 Aug 1838 Able Seaman.
PEARSE, Charles H. — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 849 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
PEIRSE, Henry Lieutenant HMS Wellesley 10 May 1829 —
PEMBERTON, Gibbons Sailmaker HMS Weazle 5 Jun 1830 (Interment) Body sent to Bighi Naval Hospital for interment; post mortem performed by Dr. John Liddell.
PENNICOTT, George Ordinary Seaman HMS Cambridge Between 1 Jul & 30 Sep 1841 Died in Bighi Royal Naval Hospital.
PERKINS, Albert E. — — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 849 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
PERRIN, Ellen Phoebi — — — Listed as Ellen Phoebi (sic). Remains placed in the mass grave 849 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
PETRIE, R. — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 849 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
PICKARD, William — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
PITTS, Frederick — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
POLE, Joseph Simon — — 27 Apr 1852 Aged 29 years. Died on a Tuesday at the Royal Naval Hospital.
POLLIKETT, A. — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
PORTER, Robert QM HMS Scylla 12 Oct 1832 (Interment) Quartermaster. Body sent to Bighi Naval Hospital for interment; post mortem performed by Dr. John Liddell.
PRATT, Edwin — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 849 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
PRATT, Joseph — HMS Ganges 19 Jan 1832 (Interment) Body sent to Bighi Naval Hospital for interment; post mortem performed by Dr. John Liddell.
PRATT, Thomas H. — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 849 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
PRETNELL, B. Melita — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 849 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
PROCTOR, William — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
RANDALL, John Seaman HMS Madagascar 30 Jun 1829 —
RECORD, Rosina — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 849 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
REED, William C. — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 849 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
REID, [First Name Unknown] Commander — ca. 19 Mar 1863 Died at Bighi Naval hospital. Buried in the hospital cemetery with approx. 100 officers from all branches and ship detachments in attendance. Service led by Chaplains Rev. R.B. Howe and Rev. William Dearden.
REYNOLDS, A. Boy 1st Class HMS Rodney Between 1 Jul & 30 Sep 1841 Died in Bighi Royal Naval Hospital.
REYPART, William L/M HMS Pembroke Between 1 Apr & 30 Jun 1839 Landman / Marine. Died in Bighi Royal Navy Hospital.
ROBERTSON, Francis James Conynghame Infant Son of Dr. M. Robertson — 21 Aug 1870 Died at Bighi Naval Hospital.
ROBINSON, Richard Seaman HMS Blonde 14 Mar 1829 —
ROSE, Robert — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 849 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
ROWLANDS, John — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
RUSSELL, James — HMS Asia 7 Sep 1829 —
RUSSELL, Joshua — HMS Asia 26 Jan 1839 —
RUTLER, William — — — Remains placed in the mass grave at Kalkara.
RYE, William — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
SALVESON, Frank — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
SAMSON, Benjamin — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
SARGENT, Joseph Boy 2nd Class HMS Powerful Between 1 Jul & 30 Sep 1841 Died in Bighi Royal Naval Hospital.
SAUNDERS, Robert Petty Officer / Pensioner HMS Hibernia (ex-HMS Gibraltar) 22 Oct 1866 Lately pensioned from HMS Gibraltar and awaiting passage to England. Died aboard HMS Hibernia following a fall into the hold which fractured his skull. Buried in Bighi cemetery.
SCOREY, Richard O/S HMS Minden 21 Aug 1838 Ordinary Seaman.
SCRIVERS, Stephen — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 849 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
SEALY, Albert Leslie — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 849 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
SETHBRIDGE, T.W. — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
SHEARS, William — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
SILLENCE, James — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
SLEE, James — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 849 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
SMALE, William A. — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
SMITH, Arthur — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 849 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
SMITH, Charles Marine HMS Revenge 13 Aug 1829 —
SMITH, Harry — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
SMITH, Michael 2nd Master — Between 1 Apr & 30 Jun 1839 Died in Bighi Royal Navy Hospital.
SMITH, Nicholas Q.M. HMS Bellerophon 28 May 1839 Quartermaster.
SMITH, Thomas — HMS Pembroke 18 Nov 1837 —
SMITH, William — HMS Revenge 18 Aug 1829 —
SNOW, G.J.R. Lieutenant HMS Cyclops Between 1 Jan & 30 Jun 1841 Died in Bighi Royal Naval Hospital.
SOWDEN, Minnie — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 849 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
SPARKS, Thomas — HMS Britannia 2 May 1830 (Interment) Body sent to Bighi Naval Hospital for interment; post mortem performed by Dr. John Liddell.
SPEARS, Scott Charles — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 849 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
SPEARS, Gustav William — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 849 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara./td>
SPEARS, Arthur Scott — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 849 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
STANHOPE, Chandos Scudamore Scudamore Captain HMS Caledonia 7 Jul 1871 Aged 47 years. Died in command of his ship at Bighi Naval Hospital.
STANTON, Mr. Late Boatswain HMS Alexandra 2 Jan 1889 (Funeral) Funeral took place at the Royal Naval Hospital Bighi.
STARKS, Harry — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
STATES, Stoker Stoker HMS Confiance 18 Jun 1837 —
STEAR, Louisa E. — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 849 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
STEBRICK, Peter — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 849 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
STEDWORTHY, Joseph Ordinary Seaman HMS Minden Between 1 Apr & 30 Jun 1839 Died in Bighi Royal Navy Hospital.
STUART, Richard O. Master HMS Trafalgar / R.N. 15 Oct 1853 Died at Bighi Royal Naval Hospital.
STUBBS, Frederick — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
SULLIVAN, Cornelius Ordinary Seaman HMS Powerful Between 1 Jan & 30 Jun 1841 Died in Bighi Royal Naval Hospital.
SULLIVAN, John Seaman HMS Vanguard 9 Nov 1837 Died in Bighi Royal Naval Hospital.
SUTTON, William — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 849 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
TALBOT, Owen Thomas — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 849 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
TAVERNER, Henry — HMS Ocean 8 Aug 1829 —
TAYLOR, James — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 849 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
TAYLOR, James — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
TAYLOR, William — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 849 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
TILLER, Walter — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
TODD, Albert — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
VINCENT, Lewis — HMS St. Vincent 29 Dec 1831 (Interment) Body sent to Bighi Naval Hospital for interment; post mortem performed by Dr. John Liddell.
WALDEN, Edward Sailmaker HMS Thunderer Between 1 Jan & 30 Jun 1841 Died in Bighi Royal Naval Hospital.
WALKER, William — HMS Britannia 25 Feb 1831 (Interment) Body sent to Bighi Naval Hospital for interment; post mortem performed by Dr. John Liddell.
WALTERS, James — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 849 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
WATKINS, G. Boatswain HMS Hibernia 1 Nov 1890 Died on a Saturday in the Royal Naval Hospital.
WATT, Miss [First Name Unknown] Sister of Deputy Inspector — 22 Dec 1846 Died at Bighi. Sister of Dr. Watt, Deputy Inspector of the Naval Hospital.
WATT, Dr. William Coubrough (MD, FRCS) Deputy Inspector Royal Naval Hospital 20 Aug 1848 Died at his residence in Rinella Bay. Served over 30 years in the Royal Navy. Buried next to his sister at Bighi cemetery; sole survivor of a once numerous family.
WEST, Beatrice Mary — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 849 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
WEST, Edward Chief Engineer Malacca ca. 14 Nov 1861 Buried in Bighi hospital cemetery.
WEST, G.R. Assistant Surgeon HMS Hecla 23 Jun 1844 Died on a Sunday at the Royal Naval Hospital Bighi.
WESTON, Charles — HMS Asia 28 Dec 1829 —
WHISHAIN, James Clerk in Charge HMS Megara 30 Jun 1840 (Buried) Died in Bighi Royal Naval Hospital.
WHITE, William — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 849 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
WHITESIDE, Hunter Ordinary Seaman HMS Bellerophon Between 1 Jan & 30 Jun 1841 Died in Bighi Royal Naval Hospital.
WICKS, W. Able Seaman HMS Hastings Between 1 Oct & 31 Dec 1840 Died in Bighi Royal Naval Hospital.
WILBY, Melita — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 849 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
WILDING, John O/S HMS Spartiate 20 Jan 1829 Ordinary Seaman.
WILKINSON, J.S. Master Steam frigate HMS Devastation 5 Mar 1845 Died on a Wednesday at Royal Naval Hospital Bighi.
WILLIAMS, Gilbert — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
WILLIAMS, James — HMS St. Vincent 23 Sep 1831 (Interment) Body sent to Bighi Naval Hospital for interment; post mortem performed by Dr. John Liddell.
WILLIAMS, James — HMS Dido 22 Dec 1838 —
WILLIAMSON, M.C.S. — HMS Cyclops Between 1 Oct & 31 Dec 1840 Died in Bighi Royal Naval Hospital.
WOODLEY, Edward — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 849 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
WRIGHT, Charles — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
WRIGHT, John AB HMS Vernon 4 Jan 1836 Able Seaman.
WRIGHT, R. — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
WRIGHT, William Warren Assistant Surgeon HMS Monarch 8 Dec 1842 Died in the evening at the Naval Hospital. Buried in the Naval Hospital cemetery.
YOUNC, Thomas — — — Listed as YOUNC (sic). Remains placed in the mass grave 849 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
ZOULDEN, John W. — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.
ZUIN, Frank — — — Remains placed in the mass grave 851 at Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Kalkara.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the remains from the Bighi Naval Hospital Cemetery now?

The remains were systematically exhumed and moved during site clearances in December 1966 and December 1968. They were permanently re-interred approximately one mile away in Plot D of the Kalkara Naval Cemetery.

Where is the St. Oswald Memorial Book that lists the Bighi burials?

According to the inscription on Grave No. 846 in Kalkara, the names of those interred between 1846 and 1901 were recorded in a memorial book inside the Church of St. Oswald at the Royal Naval Hospital. However, the current whereabouts of this historical document remain unknown.

Research & Documentation

  • Researcher: Paul Berman
  • Last Updated: 2026

This page forms part of eMalta's ongoing documentation of the historical, cultural and religious heritage of Malta and Gozo.

Information has been compiled through site visits, field research, historical publications, archival records, maps, plans and other reference sources.

All locations that currently exist featured on eMalta have been personally visited and documented. Where historic sites no longer exist, information has been researched from archival sources and contemporary records.

Images used on eMalta include original photography as well as historical illustrations, maps and photographs reproduced with permission from archives, institutions and copyright holders where applicable. Individual image credits and archive reference numbers are provided where available.