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Joshua James Means
A New Branch of a Family Tree with Strong Roots

By Cindy Beth Bittker

Many family trees have their roots in Hull, Massachusetts -- but none stronger or more honored than that of Joshua James. Born in 1826, he participated in his first rescue off the shores of Hull at 15 years of age and was awarded for his heroism with his first of many metals at 23 years of age. For nearly 60 years, Captain Joshua James patrolled the shores of Hull, saving over 1000 lives and is the world's most celebrated lifesaver. In 1876, at 62 years of age he was the keeper of four lifesaving stations in Hull, including one at Point Allerton, now a United States Coast Guard Station. His required retirement at that age was waived by an act of congress. On March 17th, 1902 seven members of the Monomoy Lifesaving Station lost their lives during a rescue attempt. Two days later, Captain Joshua James took his crew into the surf to make sure the boat and crew met his high standards. Satisfied with the drill, he ordered the boat ashore. He returned to the beach and allegedly glanced at the sea and remarked "The tide is ebbing," and died, fittingly on the beach at the age of 75, leaving his wife and seven children.

Now over 100 years since his death, those seven children have put many more branches on this honorable family tree and on September 9th, 2007 at 8:25pm, a new branch of this family tree came into the world, Joshua James Means. He weighed 6 pounds, 9 ounces and was 19 inches long on arrival. His proud parents are Jim and Jennifer Means who first met in 1994, lost touch, but were reunited on March 17th 2000. After a long distance relationship, in April of 2001 Jim moved to Canada and married Jennifer on May 25th 2002.

Jennifer says that "Jim feels proud to be a part of Hull history. We named our son Joshua James because his name sounds so strong. We are thrilled to be able to tell our friends and family about the history of Joshua James. This is also a nice reminder of where Jim is from."

Mom and Dad describe their baby son as very calm and focused. "He loves to be loved and is truly a lovable and huggable little man. He seems to be advanced for his age and is physically strong! He has been referred to as an 'old soul'. He has been a terrific baby and we feel very lucky to have him in our lives!"

Welcome and Happy Birthday to Joshua James Means!

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