Patterson, Walter

Walter Patterson, blacksmith of Bridgeport, Conn., USA

Together with Sullivan, Toth and Richards he made up the 4 Americans who spent the summer of 1922 in Dover, determined to be the 1st American to succeed, although, like Richards, Patterson had been born in England.

Walter was born in Manchester, Lancashire, in 1886, son of a blacksmith. The family emigrated to New York in 1893. Father James owned a forge in New York and trained his son. Walter later moved to Connecticut to work in a drop forge. He became an American citizen in 1905. Married Flora of New York.

Patterson, a member of the Seaside Life Saving Corps, sailed for England on the liner Majestic on 29/7/1922. His trainer Nat Mcphee followed separately on 5/8/1922

October 13, 1922 – WALTER PATTERSON ARRIVES HOME: Walter Patterson, Lordship swimmer who failed in his attempt to swim the English Channel, due to an attack of cramps, returned to Bridgeport Wednesday morning. Patterson was about town, greeting his friends yesterday and stated that he was confident that he can swim the channel under normal conditions. Patterson plans to make another attempt next season, but plans to start earlier in order to be in trim for the fall tides.