Image of Morecambe Bay showing Sea at Low Water (though reach from Grange Channel towards Lancaster is a proposed Ship Canal - never built):
This covers steam communication and towing, up to 1850, to and from
the ports of Lancashire and Cumbria: Southport, Preston, Lytham,
Blackpool, Fleetwood, Lancaster/Glasson, Morecambe, Ulverston/Bardsea, Barrow/Piel,
Duddon/Millom, Whitehaven, Workington, Maryport, Port Carlisle. Also Dumfries and
Galloway and the Isle of Man are briefly covered.
Liverpool and the Mersey; Dee Estuary; North
Wales are covered separately.
Ports in the North West developed later than Liverpool: Southport Pier was built 1860; Preston Dock was built 1892; Lytham Pier in 1865; St Annes Pier 1885; Blackpool North Pier was open around 1865; Fleetwood Dock was built 1877; Glasson Dock (for Lancaster) was built 1791; Heysham Dock in 1904; Morecambe Pier 1869; Ulverston ship canal was built 1795; Bardsea Pier about 1841; Piel Pier (on Roa Island) from 1846; Barrow Devonshire Dock was built by 1867; Whitehaven Queens Dock was built 1876; Workington Lonsdale Dock was built 1865; Elizabeth Dock at Maryport was built in 1857; Carlisle ship canal was built 1823.
So pre 1850, only Glasson, and the Ulverston and Carlisle ship canals, provided fully sheltered berths that did not dry at low tide, and all three had limited access except at high tide. Early steam vessels needed to be able to take the ground, and to be able to navigate in shallow water.
When the railway network reached Fleetwood in 1840, it was developed as a port using a quay alongside, with enough depth for vessels to lie afloat at low tide, near the railway station. For a while a Fleetwood - Ardrossan steamboat service provided the fastest route from London to Glasgow, before the railway had crossed the mountains around the early 1850s. Services from Fleetwood to Northern Ireland (Belfast, Newry and Londonderry) were also initiated.
As well as inter-town trade, there were also local ferry services: Fleetwood to Knott End across the Wyre; Fleetwood to Bardsea (2 miles SSE of Ulverston, for Barrow and/or Ulverston),..
All vessels were side-wheel paddle steamers, earlier ones had wooden hulls,
later ones often were of iron.
Preston:
Ribble shipwrecks.
Wooden steamer Ribble, built
Liverpool 1826 for service at Preston, but was moved to the Mersey by
1830.
Wooden steamer Enterprize, built Preston 1834, served
there until 1837.
Iron steamer Lily, built 1839, owned Preston to 1872.
Iron steamer Experiment, built Preston 1842, service in Ribble
Steam transport of goods from Liverpool to Preston, 1843-5 [Nelson's vessels]
Steam transport of goods from Liverpool to Preston 1843- [PS Blanche]
Wooden steamer Colchester, built 1840, Preston-Liverpool 1846.
Steam dredging vessel, built Preston 1839, used to improve the Ribble navigation.
Iron steam tug Prince
Arthur built 1840 made a disastrous excursion from Preston to
Menai in 1850.
Iron screw steamer Lady Lindsay, built Preston 1855, lost 1855
with all 14 aboard lost.
Morecambe Bay
Morecambe Bay shipwrecks.
Wooden steamer Duke of Lancaster, built Liverpool 1822, service
to Morecambe Bay 1822.
Wooden steamer John O'Gaunt, built Liverpool 1825, Lancaster -
Liverpool service 1826-39.
Iron steamer Duchess of Lancaster, built Birkenhead 1839, Lancaster services
1839-57.
Wooden steamer Windermere,
built Liverpool 1835, service to Morecambe Bay, Ulverston etc to 1856.
Wooden steamer Zephyr built Chester 1832, Liverpool - Piel/Barrow service
1848 to 1850.
Fleetwood steamer services:
Wooden steam bucket dredger, built Fleetwood, 1840, Fleetwood service.
Wooden steamer Cupid, built 1828, owned Fleetwood 1840-
Wooden steamer Express, built 1836, Fleetwood - Bardsea service
1840-6.
Wooden steamer Nile, built 1842, owned Fleetwood 1847-
Wooden steamer James Dennistoun,
built 1835, Fleetwood - Bardsea - Barrow - Piel 1840-51.
Wooden steamer Fire King, built
1839, Served Fleetwood - Ardrossan 1841 - 6.
Wooden steamer Prince Albert, built Whitehaven 1840,
service Fleetwood - Whitehaven 1841.
Wooden steamer Tobermory, built 1837, owned Fleetwood 1839-45.
Wooden steamer Helvellyn, built 1842, service from Fleetwood 1849-67?
Wooden steamer Victoria, built Belfast
1837, Fleetwood - Belfast 1842, wrecked
Iron steamer Warrington, built
Warrington 1840, served Fleetwood - Newry 1843.
Wooden steamer Eclipse, built 1829, Fleetwood - Liverpool
service 1843.
Wooden steamer Scotia, built 1828, Fleetwood - Belfast 1842.
Wooden steamer Robert Napier, built 1832, Fleetwood services 1843.
Wooden steamer Isabella Napier, built 1835, Fleetwood services 1844-5
Iron steamer Prince of Wales, built 1842, service Fleetwood - Belfast
from 1843
Iron steamer Princess Alice, built 1843, service Fleetwood - Belfast
from 1843
Wooden steamer Hibernia, built Liverpool
1825, Fleetwood - Dublin service 1844/5.
Iron steamer Her Majesty, built 1844, services
from Fleetwood from 1844, wrecked 1849.
Iron steamer Royal Consort, built 1844, Fleetwood - Ardrossan service.
Iron steamer Orion, built 1840, Fleetwood - Isle of Man, 1845-7
Iron steamer Fenella, built Liverpool 1846, service Fleetwood - Douglas
& Ramsey, 1846-53
Wooden steamer Londonderry, built 1841, service to Fleetwood - Londonderry 1849.
Iron steamer Thistle, built 1848, service to Fleetwood - Londonderry 1849.
Whitehaven
Wooden steamer St Andrew, built 1826, Dumbarton, service 1828-36
Wooden steamer Countess of
Lonsdale, built Whitehaven 1827, Whitehaven services to 1849.
Wooden steamer Earl of Lonsdale, built
Whitehaven 1834, Whitehaven services to 1853.
Wooden steamer Prince Albert, built Whitehaven 1840, service at Whitehaven to 1868
Iron steamer Queen, built Liverpool 1844, Whitehaven services to 1873.
Iron steam bucket dredger, built 1848, for Whitehaven harbour.
Iron steamer Whitehaven, built Liverpool 1848,
services from Whitehaven to 1860.
Tugs Ajax and Prince Albert 1861.
Workington
Wooden steam packet Union, built 1833, service Workington & Maryport
to Liverpool until 1841.
Wooden steam tug Derwent, built 1849, service at Workington to 1877.
Maryport
Wooden steam tug Rambler, built 1846, service Maryport to 1883.
Iron screw steamer Cumbria, built 1854, servicie 1854-59
Carlisle.
Wooden steamer Elizabeth, built ?, service from Carlisle 1832.
Wooden steam tug Clarence, built 1827, owned Carlisle 1839-46
Wooden steamer Alice, built 1843, tug/tender service from Port Carlisle 1846-50.
Steam tug Engineer, Port Carlisle 1849 on.
Wooden steamer Solway, built Holyhead 1826,
services from Port Carlisle, wrecked 1841.
Wooden steamer Cumberland, built Holyhead 1826,
services from Port Carlisle to 1835.
Wooden steamer Newcastle, built Birkenhead
1834, services from Port Carlisle to 1854.
Wooden steamer City of Carlisle,
built Birkenhead 1834, services from Port Carlisle to 1840.
Wooden steamer Royal Victoria, built Liverpool 1837, service from Port Carlisle
to 1850
Wooden steamer Hibernia, built Liverpool
1825, Carlisle - Dublin service 1844.
Iron steamer Cumberland, built 1847, service from Annan 1848-51
Iron screw steamer Cumbria, built 1854, servicie 1860-2
Dumfries and Galloway steamers (pre 1850). Other reported callers
at these ports are the St Andrew, Eclipse and Warrington.
Wooden steamer Countess of Galloway, built 1835, Clyde, 1835-46
Iron steamer Countess of Galloway, built 1847, Clyde, 1847-
Isle of Man steamers (pre 1850) - just a list since they are widely discussed elsewhere.
Here owned Isle of Man Steam Packet Company:
Wooden steamer Mona's Isle, built Wood, Port Glasgow 1830, to 1851.
Wooden steamer Mona, built Wood, Port Gasgow, 1832, to 1841
Wooden steamer Queen of the Isle, built Wood, Port Glasgow, 1834, to 1845
Wooden steamer King Orry, built Winram, Douglas, 1842, to 1858
Iron steamer Ben-my-Chree, built Napier, Govan, 1845, to 1860
Iron steamer Tynwald , built Napier, Govan, 1846, to 1866
A rival company, Isle of Man & Liverpool SN Co, ran from 1836 to 1837:
Wooden steamer Clyde ,
built McMillan, Greenock, 1831, (chartered from Glasgow & Liverpool SS
Co)
Wooden steamer Monarch ,
built Steele, Greenock, 1836
Preston: Ribble improvements:
[from Lancaster Gazette - Saturday 27 February 1841]:
RIBBLE NAVIGATION. TO QUARRY OWNERS, &c. WANTED TWENTY THOUSAND
TONS of RUBBLE STONES, to be laid alongside the River, on Preston
Marsh. Tenders for any quantity, from 1,000 Tons upwards,
may be sent to the Ribble Navigation Office; to Mr. Pilkington, the
Secretary; or to Mr. P. Park, Surveyor, from whom, respectively, any
further information may be obtained. Preston, 19th February,
1841.
1845 list of potential steam gun-boats.
1851 register: Preston (Cupid, Tobermory, Prince of Wales,
Experiment, Nile, James Dennistoun); Fleetwood (Fenella, Royal Consort, Princess Alice);
Lancaster (Duchess of Lancaster, Lily of Preston); Whitehaven (Countess of Lonsdale, Earl of
Lonsdale, Prince Albert, Queen, Whitehaven); Workington (Derwent); Maryport (Rambler);
Carlisle (Newcastle, Royal Victoria, Alice, Cumberland)
Main Index
Iron steamer Lily, built John Ronald, Aberdeen, 1839, 76grt, 50 nrt, 82.6 x 13.2 x 8.0ft, 20hp, paddles, ON 19448. Also known as Lily of Preston. In 1845 described as at Preston, though reported as registered at Lancaster, since October 1839. Owned Ribble Navigation Company 1839-48. Used as a steam tug and for excursions. Listed as passenger certified at Preston, 1852-3, 50 nrt, 24hp. Still at Preston 1854, owned Bond. Also offering excursions from Preston in 1866, owned Alsupp. In MNL to 1872 [as wooden]. More details(also stated as iron).
[from Newcastle Journal - Saturday 04 May 1839]:
ABERDEEN. April 22, A fine iron steamer was launched here last week,
by Messrs. John Ronald & Co. named the Lily. She is 85 feet keel, 20
horse power, and draws 18 inches water, she is intended for a passage
boat on the Tyne.
[from Preston Chronicle - Saturday 05 October 1839]:
THE STEAMER "LILY," of Preston, will sail with Passengers and Parcels,
as follows: From LYTHAM. ...[daily] From Preston, ...
Ribble Navigation Company.
[from Kendal Mercury - Saturday 10 April 1841]:
Port of Lancaster: Arrived ... Duchess of Lancaster (steamer),
Kennedy, Liverpool, cargo; ... Lily (steamer), Ashburn, Preston,
Barley; ... Sailed ... Duchess of Lancaster (steamer),
Kennedy, Liverpool, gen. cargo; ... Lily (steamer), Ashburn, Fleetwood, timber....
[from Preston Chronicle - Saturday 01 February 1845]:
ACCIDENT TO THE "LILY" STEAMER. - During the snow storm on Monday night
last, as the "Lily" steamer was towing one or more vessels down the
river Ribble, to Lytham, the captain unfortunately got out of his
course and made too near the land, being deceived by the snow lying on
each side of the river. In consequence of this deviation the steamer
grounded on the walls, and sustained some damage, but to what extent
we have not been able to learn. Active exertions are at present being
made to lift her off.
[from Preston Chronicle - Saturday 15 September 1849]:
TO BE SOLD BY AUCTION, WITHOUT RESERVE, BY MR. BURTON, At the
house of Mr. Glade, the Castle Inn, Preston, on Monday the 24th of
September instant, at three o'clock in the afternoon, subject to
conditions to be then produced.
LOT 1. ALL that STEAM VESSEL
called "THE LILY," with the Tackle and Appurtenances
thereto belonging, for some time employed on the River Ribble as a
Steam Tug and Passenger Boat. She has two good Engines of Twelve
Horse Power each, and is fitted up as a Passenger Boat, and also
as a Tug and will be sold with the privilege of plying on the
River without payment of Toll.
LOT 2. The PADDLE WHEELS and
SHAFTING thereto belonging to the Ribble Navigation Company's
Steam Dredge, together with Cog and Level Wheels, and other
miscellaneous articles.
The Steamer will be brought up to the New
Quay, Preston, on Saturday the 22nd September inst., and remain
there until the sale; and further particulars may be
obtained on application at the Ribble Navigation Company's Office,
Chapel Walks, Preston, or to Mr. EDWARD HAYDOCK, Secretary to the
Company. Preston, 14th Sept., 1849.
[from Preston Chronicle - Saturday 22 July 1854]:
Preston Regatta. ... Two bands will be in attendance, one near the
stands, and the other on board the steamer Lily, which had been placed
at the service of the Committee by Mr Bond.
[from Preston Chronicle - Saturday 28 November 1857]:
BLACKPOOL. Wreck at Southshore.. - On Sunday afternoon, a small
schooner, named the Pride, of Liverpool, [sic, Pryde ON 1006 b PEI
1848, later repaired] struck on the Salthouse Bank, off Southshore,
Blackpool, while making a voyage from one of the Irish ports to
Liverpool. The steamer Lily, of Preston, went to her assistance soon
after she struck, but could not succeed in taking her off the bank. At
night, a brisk wind sprang up, and drove the unfortunate vessel over
the bank towards the beach, into a hole called "Jones's Hollow." The
crew had quitted her immediately she struck and succeeded in gaining
the shore in safety. The Pride was freighted with 126 tons of meal in
bulk, part of which was saved on Monday, but, as a gale sprung up
during that night, the vessel was filled with water, and the remainder
was lost. She has become a total wreck.
Excursion from New Quay, Preston, to Lytham and back, on Lily, advertised 1858 and 1859.
Excursion from Preston to Lytham [from Preston Chronicle - Saturday
16 June 1866] on Lily, owned Mr Allsup, with passengers complaining
that they were not taken to Lytham Pier but to a "dock" 1.5 miles away
from Lytham. [Pier built 1865, dock at Lodge Pool, Nancy's Bay, was an alongside quay]
Iron steamer Experiment, built Patterson, Preston, Described 1845 as 19nrt, 30hp, and as registered at Preston May 1843, owned William Read, 60.0 x 10.9ft, 19nrt, 34 grt. More details [where described as screw].
[from Preston Chronicle - Saturday 30 April 1842]:
Launch. On Wednesday last, the new iron steamer built by Mr. Patterson, of
Marsh Lane, was launched from Mr. Speakman's yard, on the Marsh. The vessel was
named "The Experiment". She is fitted up with high pressure engines of fifteen
horse power, and will only draw 2 feet of water. It is expected she will be
able to reach Ashton Quays at any time of tide. As this will establish a
regular steam communication between Preston and Lytham, we hope "The Experiment" will
succeed.
[from Preston Chronicle - Saturday 10 October 1846]:
LAUNCH. - On Saturday last, an iron steamer called "The Experiment",
which for some time past has been in the hands of Mr. Kelsall, for the
purpose of enlarging and repairing, was launched in the Ribble, near
to the bottom of Fishergate.
Wooden steam dredger Robert Stevenson, built Samuel Speakman, Preston, 1839, 80 tons burthen, 80 x 24 ft, 12hp, 1 screw. Referred to locally as the "steam dredge". Robert Stevenson was the consulting engineer for the Ribble Navigation work. More detail. See also evidence that parts of the dredge were for sale in 1849.
[from Liverpool Mercury - Friday 03 August 1838]:
TO be LET by PROPOSAL, to be left at the Ribble Navigation
Company's Office, Chapel Walks, Preston, in the county of
Lancaster, on or before the 9th of August next, the BUILDING and
completing of a STEAM DREDGE and ENGINE of Twelve Horse Power,
according to Plans, Specifications, and Descriptions which may be
seen at the Company's Office, until the 23d instant, from which day
to the 30th instant, the same will be deposited with Mr. EDMUNDSON
COOBAN, Timber Merchant, Park-lane, Liverpool, and from the
last-mentioned day to the 6th August next, with ROBERT KNOCKS
Esq. Writer, Glasgow. Plans, Sections, and Specifications of the
intended Excavations of the Rock in the River Ribble in the
Townships of Preston, Ashton, and Penwortham, in the said county,
are nearly complete, and the letting of the work by Proposal
will be advertised early in the month of August next. RICHARD
PILKINGTON, Clerk to the Ribble Navigation Company, Preston, Ribble
Navigation Office, July 18, 1838.
[from Preston Chronicle - Saturday 08 December 1838]:
River Ribble Navigation. We were much gratified in the course of our
perambulations the other day along the quays, to observe the rapid
progress Mr Speakman is making in the building of the new steam
dredging vessel.
[from Liverpool Mercury - Friday 05 April 1839]:
The Ribble Dredging Vessel - A dredging vessel for the River Ribble,
was launched on Monday se'nnight on that river, in the presence of
seven or eight thousand persons. The vessel, which is of excellent
workmanship and the best materials, is eighty feet in length, and
twenty-four feet across her decks. She draws nineteen inches of water.
The longitudinal shaft is fifty feet long, the well, or aperture down
the middle of the vessel, from the engine-house to the head, in
which the buckets are to work, is fifty feet long and two and a half
feet wide. The depth of the well below the decks is seven feet three
inches at mid-way, eight feet eight inches at the fore-part, and seven
feet seven inches aft. When completely fitted with her engine, &c.,
her burthen will be about eighty tons. The steam-engine will be of
twelve horse power, and with the leverage obtained by the machinery,
will be equal to lifting eighty tons. The vessel will ordinarily
require about thirteen men for her ship's company, and will be able to
dredge and remove from 120 to 160 tons per hour from the bed of the
river, the quantity varying of course, according to the nature of the
material.
[from Preston Chronicle - Saturday 25 January 1840]:
Meeting of the Ribble Navigation Committee. ... The Directors are
glad to report that the dredge is working very efficiently - 30,510 tons
of gravel and sand have been raised from the bed of the river,
giving an extra depth of water in that part of the river in which
she has been working of about 5 feet. From soundings, which the
Directors have recently had made in the dredged channel, they have much
pleasure in reporting that this extra depth is still maintained,
and that there appeared to be no tendency to silt up in any
part of the new excavations. ...
[from Liverpool Standard and General Commercial Advertiser -
Tuesday 01 September 1840]:
RIBBLE NAVIGATION. Our readers will be
glad to be informed that the late storm has done so little damage to
the third and last length of the coffer dam, that the removal of this
last remaining portion of the rock will be commenced in a week or two,
and that nearly all the timber which was washed away from this part of
the works has been recovered by the contractors. It is also gratifying
to learn that the long length of stone walling which is now being made
on the right bank of the river, from the late chain caul [jetty just
west of where Dock entrance is now] to the river Savick, has not been
in the least displaced or injured, and that the new channel now
forming along the line of it has been considerably benefitted by the
late flood, so much so that it is confidently expected the course of
the tidal stream, with the aid of the powerful steam dredge, will very
soon flow entirely in that direction, and thereby enable the company
very shortly to gain some hundreds of acres of fine pasture land,
especially on the southern side of the Ribble. Our spirited and
highly esteemed neighbour T. Clifton, Esq., of Lytham Hall, is now in
treaty with the directors to make and lease to them, for a term of
years, a spacious wet dock, at Lodge Pool, near Lytham, which will be
of very great advantage to the merchant vessels trading to the Ribble,
as it will enable them to lie safely in port, in all sorts of weather,
when waiting for favourable winds, either to come up to Preston or to
put out to sea, We hope one of the next projects will be the erection
of a light house, at the mouth of the river, to guide the numerous
strangers we hope, ere long, to see at our quays. -
Back to index
Steam vessels taking goods from Liverpool to Preston regularly, 1843-45. Manager James Marks Nelson, trading as Liverpool and Preston Steam Navigation Company, declared insolvent in November 1844. Possibly towing barges?
[from Preston Chronicle - Saturday 20 April 1844]:
CHEAP FREIGHTS BETWEEN LIVERPOOL and PRESTON by NELSON'S VESSELS. THE Liverpool and
Preston Steam Navigation Company's Boats sail regularly on their appointed
days, Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday, (with Vessels on intermediate days, to suit
convenience of purchasers,) from George's
Dock Basin, Liverpool. For particulars of Freight, &c., apply to Mr.
Samuel Smith, Friargate; and at the Office, New Quay, Fishergate,
Preston; or to Mr. James Nelson, 4 George's Dock Gates,
Liverpool. [advert from February 1843 to May 1845]
Back to index
Transport from Liverpool to Preston: a rival to "Nelson's Vessels" called "Preston & Liverpool Navigation and Shipping Company", advertised their steamer Blanche for this service. This is probably the Liverpool - Runcorn steamer Blanche, built 1841.
[from Preston Chronicle - Saturday 15 July 1843]:
STEAM TO LIVERPOOL, AND VICE VERSA. The first Class
Steamer, "BLANCHE," is now plying regularly as above. Manufacturers,
Merchants, and others may depend on punctuality. Apply in Preston to
WILLIAM DAVIS, 14, Fishergate Hill; and In Liverpool, to ROBERTSON,
ALEXANDER & CO., Redcross Street, Liverpool. Preston, 13th July, 1848.
N.B. - The
Cargo of Cotton and other Goods, landed at Preston Quay at 12 o'clock
this day, per "Blanche," was shipped at Liverpool LAST NIGHT.
[from Preston Chronicle - Saturday 29 July 1843]:
THE Preston and Liverpool Navigation and Shipping Company's new,
splendid, and swift-sailing Steamer, "BLANCHE," CAPT. FRYERS, Will
Sail with Goods and Passengers from PRESTON QUAY, This Day,
(SATURDAY) The 29th inst., at 1 o'clock in the Afternoon.
Cabin, (having splendid accommodation,) 6s.; Deck, 3s.
Wind and Weather permitting, the Steamer will Land Passengers at Lytham
and Southport. Apply to WILLIAM DAVIS, Agent and Manager, Preston; or
ROBERTSON, ALEXANDER, and Co., Redcross-street, Liverpool. Preston,
July 29th, 1843.
This Steamer arrived at the Old Quay yesterday's
tide. Passengers may depend on punctuality; and to prevent disappointment,
Shippers are requested to order their Goods to and from
Liverpool by the "BLANCHE STEAMER."
[advert appears 1843, and differs from Nelson's Vessels]
[from Preston Chronicle - Saturday 15 July 1843]:
Preston. Arrived. Blanche (steamer) Fryer, from Liverpool, 26 bales cotton,
1 hgsd British spirits, and sundry goods.
[from Preston Chronicle - Saturday 22 July 1843]:
Preston. Arrived. Blanche (steamer), Fryer, from Liverpool, general cargo.
[only above two reports]
Back to index
Wooden steamer Colchester, built Tyne 1840, 119grt, 35 nrt, 98.2 x 16.9 ft, 20hp, paddles, ON 16899, in service on the Mersey from 1844, registered Liverpool 1848, owned E Forster, for towing. Used as a tug at Liverpool, to tow vessels to Widnes from 1844, and then to trade to Preston in 1846. See more details and more history.
[from Liverpool Mail - Saturday 28 September 1844]:
WOODEND TUG BOAT. The Public are informed that on and after the 1st
of October next, the Steamer, COLCHESTER, Will tow Vessels between
LIVERPOOL and the entrance of the Sankey Canal and St. Helen's Railway Dock,
leaving the Liverpool Docks, at each Tide, about two Hours before High Water.
For further information apply to Mr. Sinclair, Railway Office, St. Helen's; or to
Messrs. William COLLINS and Co., Canton-buildings, 13, Water-street,
Liverpool.
[from Preston Chronicle - Saturday 06 June 1846]:
Liverpool and Preston STEAMERS. THE MERSEY AND RIBBLE CARRYING
COMPANY, beg to inform the Merchants, Manufacturers,
Tradesmen, and inhabitants of Preston and: Liverpool generally,
that they have engaged the powerful first-class Steamer COLCHESTER,
70 horse-power, which will, on the 6th of June, commence plying
between LIVERPOOL, and PRESTON three times a week, in conjunction with
the Company's present vessels.
[from Preston Chronicle - Saturday 13 June 1846]:
LIVERPOOL. - The fine steamer, the Colchester, belonging to the Mersey
and Ribble Carrying Company, made her first trip between Preston and
Liverpool on Sunday last. She departed from the New Quay, Preston,
about ten o'clock in the morning, and arrived from Liverpool about
eleven at night, after allowing the passengers (upwards of 200 in
number) several hours to spend in Liverpool. The weather was
extremely fine, which rendered the trip a very pleasant one. As will
be seen by an advertisement in another column, the Colchester
intends making an excursion to Fleetwood and back on Sunday next.
September 1846 - last mention of company.
Iron screw steamer Lady Lindsay, built Watson & Allsup, Preston 1855. ON 19833. Registered Preston 10/1855, 123 tons. For cargo trade (coal and iron) in Irish Sea. More history. Missing on voyage Lytham to Dublin, departing 30 October 1855, in stormy weather, all 14 aboard lost.
[from Preston Chronicle - Saturday 24 March 1855]:
LAUNCH OF THE "LADY LINDSAY". - The launch of the large iron screw
steamer, the Lady Lindsay, built by Messrs. Watson and Allsup for
Messrs. Peace, Raweliffe, and Co., and the first vessel of the kind
built in this town, took place on Monday last, at the yard of the
builders, about half-past twelve at noon. There were three or four
hundred persons in and about the yard, assembled to witness the
event. Everything having been prepared for her consignment to the
water, Miss Rawcliffe, the daughter of one of the owners, broke a
bottle of wine on the bow of the vessel, christening her the Lady
Lindsay, and the signal being given, the last wedge was withdrawn, and
the vessel, decorated with flags, union jacks, &c., and bearing some
hundred or more people, glided smoothly from the stocks into the
river, without the slightest untoward occurrence, and amidst the
joyous shouts of the workmen and the spectators. The Lady Lindsay is
intended to convey coal to Ireland, and, being discharged, to run
to Scotland for iron for this port. Her length of keel is 110 feet,
length over all 120 feet, breadth 20 feet, and depth of hold, 20 feet
6 inches; she has been built to carry 300 tons, though her water ways
and covering boards are equal in strength to those ordinarily in
vessels of 800 tons burthen. Her form is such as to combine good
sailing qualities with draught capacity, neither property being
sacrificed to the other. She will have two boilers and two distinct
engines, separately geered [sic], and these, which are now in course of
being manufactured, will be nominally 50-horse power, but are intended
to be able to work up to 70-horse power if required; but the character
of the screw, which is to be six feet in diameter, has not yet been
determined upon. It is supposed that in two or three months at most
the Lady Lindsay will be ready for her first trip.
[from Glasgow Courier - Saturday 10 November 1855; quoting Preston Guardian]:
SUPPOSED LOSS OF A PRESTON STEAMER AND FOURTEEN LIVES. Considerable
excitement has been created in this town by the rumoured loss of the
Lady Lindsay steamer, of this port, in the gale of Tuesday week. The
Lady Lindsey is a new Dutch-built [sic] iron vessel, of 187 tons
register. She was built by Messrs. Watson & Allsup, of this town, and
was launched in March last. She has already made two trips across the
channel - first from this port to Belfast, and then from Preston to
Dublin, from whence she ran to Ardrossan, arriving at Preston laden
with iron, on Sunday week. Her cargo having been cleared, she was
loaded with coals, and proceeded to Lytham Dock on Monday week, which
place she left for Dublin at between three and four o'clock on Tuesday
morning week. She ought to have reached her destination on Wednesday,
and to have returned to Preston on the day following; but a week has
now passed since she left Lytham, and no tidings hare been heard of
her. The length of time which has elapsed almost precludes the hope
that she may have escaped, and the belief is that she must have come
into collision with some other vessel during the gale of Tuesday, and
have foundered. She belonged to Mr. John Rawcliffe of Preston, Mr.
Pease of Haigh, near Wigan, Mr. Whitehead, coal merchant, of Preston,
and Messrs. Moore & Sons, of Manchester; and there were 14 persons on
board at the time she left this port, namely, Wm. Spencer, of Lytham,
captain; John Sharples, first mate; James Pearson, second mate; John
Halliwell, principal engineer; Edward Halliwell, second engineer;
William Bagshaw and Richard Caton, stokers; James Webster, joiner;
Joseph Greases, Robert Harrison, and Edw. Forshaw, seamen; a little
boy, nephew to the captain; and a youth from Newry, who had engaged to
work his passage to Ireland. The vessel itself was insured, although
not to its full value; but the cargo (about 160 tons of coal) , was
altogether uninsured. The value of the vessel and the cargo together
was, we understand, £8,000. Halliwell, the engineer, was a native
of Preston, and leaves a large family of orphan children. The other
men principally resided in this town, and leave families which will be
placed in a state of destitution should the loss of the vessel prove
to be true. We believe, however, that if nothing is heard of the
vessel in the course of a few days, and there is now but little room
to doubt that it has I foundered in the gale, it is the intention of
the owners to subscribe towards a fund for the maintenance of those
who will have been rendered destitute by the unfortunate occurrence.
Back to index
History of Morecambe Bay docks, piers and quays.
Port of Lancaster, etc :
[from Lancaster Gazette - Saturday 29 December 1838]:
LUNE NAVIGATION REPORT, TO THE COMMISSIONERS OF ST. GEORGE'S QUAY,
LANCASTER. The Report of Robert Stevenson and Sons, Civil Engineers,
Edinburgh, Dec. 14, 1838. In the month of March last, the reporters received instructions
from the Commissioners of St. George's Quay to make a survey of the River Lune, from Glasson
Dock to Lancaster, and to report on the best means of improving its navigation.
[Currently only 12 feet depth at HW ordinary springs in some places.
.. Plan for channel having 16 feet depth at high water, ordinary
spring tides. Dredging requirements specified. ]
[from Lancaster Gazette - Saturday 18 October 1845]:
Image of Morecambe Bay showing Sea at Low Water (though reach from Grange Channel
towards Lancaster is a proposed Ship Canal - never built):
[from Fleetwood Chronicle - Saturday 24 May 1845]:
PIEL PIER AND HARBOUR. Since the visit of the esteemed owner of
Roe[sic now Roa] Island, John Abel Smith, Esq., M.P., which we noticed
in a recent number, no time has been lost in proceeding with the new
pier at Roe Island, and railway embankment to Rampside; the embankment
having been let to a respectable contractor, and about 70 men already
employed in making it; the whole of the timber work, about 30,000
feet, will be executed under the direction of the engineer; and Mr.
Dunderdale, of Poulton, been selected to supply all the iron work.
Piel Harbour has long been known as a place of security for wind-bound
vessels, and when these facilities for landing and embarkation are
afforded, as well as a direct communication from the intended pier by
railway to join the Whitehaven and Furness line cannot fail to prove a
valuable auxiliary to Fleetwood. It is in contemplation to build a
steamer to ply between this port and Roe twice a-day, and no doubt is
entertained that Her Majesty's mails will be carried this way, as the
steam-packets will be able to sail from both harbours at any hour of
the tide. It must also prove the most direct and agreeable route to
the lakes, bringing the very heart of that district within four hours
journey of Manchester.
Wooden steamer John O'Gaunt, built Caleb & James Smith, Liverpool, 1825, 159 tons, engines of 50 hp, paddles, built Fawcett & Preston. Owned Lancaster Steam Navigation Company. Plied Liverpool - Lancaster 1826 - 1839. For sale 1840, and 1842, converted into a sailing barque, 85 x 20ft, 218 tons, nm. In Lloyd's Register 1842 as barque, 218 tons, built Liverpool 1825, owned G Castle, London, plying Liverpool - London. Not in Lloyd's after 1844. Blown up intentionally, as a demonstration, off Brighton 20 July 1844.
[from Cumberland Pacquet, and Ware's Whitehaven Advertiser - Tuesday 26 July 1825]:
On Tuesday a new steam-packet of 159 tons register, called the John o' Gaunt,
was launched from the building yard of Messrs. C. and J. Smith,
Liverpool, intended for a regular trader between that port and
Lancaster. She has two cabins for the accommodation of passengers, one of
which contains comfortable bed places; her engines are of 60 horse power,
and from her construction she is calculated to carry upwards of 90 tons
of goods at a very easy draught of water.
[from Gore's Liverpool General Advertiser - Thursday 19 January 1826]:
SUNDAY NEXT, at TWO o'clock. LANCASTER STEAM NAVIGATION COMPANY. The
public are respectfully informed, that the JOHN O'GAUNT, STEAM-PACKET,
is intended to commence plying with goods and passengers, between this
port and Lancaster, on the above day. The John o'Gaunt is intended to
sail regularly between the before mentioned ports, she has good
accommodation for passengers, and is in every respect a very superior
vessel, she is now lying in the Brunswick Dock. For further particulars
apply ALEX BARTON, Agent, Russell-place, Dale-street.
[from Liverpool Standard and General Commercial Advertiser - Friday 21 February 1840]:
On SALE, The Steam-packet JOHN O'GAUNT, (Now in Trafalgar Dock.) 82
tons register, old measurement; with two Engines of 25 horse
power each, (Fawcett, Preston, and Co.) The hull is well worthy the
attention of buyers from the great strength and present excellent
condition of her timbers, either for converting into a coasting
vessel, or for any purpose where strength and durability are required.
For further particulars, apply to JOHN RIGG, St. George's Quay,
Lancaster, or here to D. M'ARTHUR & CO., 17, Goree, Brunswick-street.
[from Shipping and Mercantile Gazette - Friday 19 August 1842]:
THE fine Barque JOHN O'GAUNT, 218 74-100 tons N.M., and 204 17-94 tons
O.M.; built at Liverpool in 1825, classed * AE 1 (in red) in Lloyd's
Books. Dimensions: Length, 85 feet; breadth, 20 3-10 feet; depth of
hold, 14 7-10 feet. Now lying in the Commercial Dock. For further
particulars apply to LACHLANS and MACLEOD, Sworn Brokers, 62.
Cornhill.
[from Shipping and Mercantile Gazette - Tuesday 07 May 1844]:
THE good copper-fastened Barque JOHN O'GAUNT, 218 tons O.M.; built
Liverpool, in 1825, is in excellent condition, and wants nothing but
provisions to be sent to sea. Now lying at Deptford. For further
particulars apply to THOMAS ASHTON, Sworn Broker, 9, George-yard,
Lombard-street.
Excerpt [from Liverpool Standard and General Commercial Advertiser - Tuesday 23 July 1844]:
CAPTAIN WARNER'S EXPERIMENT. The great interest which has been
excited, not only amongst naval men but amongst the public at large,
by the declaration of Capt. Warner that he was prepared to prove by
experiment his discovery of a new power which would instantaneously
destroy the largest vessel afloat, naturally caused an enormous
attendance in Brighton on Saturday. After several delays it had
finally been determined that the great event should come off that
afternoon. Mr. Somes, the eminent shipbuilder, having generously made
a present of the barque John o'Gaunt, a vessel of between 300 and 400
tons, for the purpose of testing the new power, the devoted vessel was
brought to Shoreham on Wednesday last, and remained moored off that
town, within sight of the promenaders on the Brighton Chain Pier.
...was blown up that day. [claimed to have been sunk by "invisible" shells -
though an underwater mine could have been used]
[from Illustrated London News - Saturday 27 July 1844]: John O'Gaunt
settling down after the explosion.
Back to index
Iron steamer Duchess of Lancaster, built Laird, Birkenhead 1839, yard no.20, 221 grt, 134 nrt, 119.9 x 19.4 x 10.0 ft, engines 90hp, ON 18201, registered Lancaster 1839. Owned Lancaster & Liverpool Steam Navigation Co., Lancaster. Sold and reduced to sail in 1857 - as a three-masted schooner, 221 grt. Registered Dublin 1863. More detail. Voyage Dublin to Whitehaven, aground at Langness (IOM) and wrecked - 7 crew lost, 1 saved, 23 January 1863.
[from Liverpool Mercury - Friday 11 October 1839]:
IMPROVED STEAM CONVEYANCE BETWEEN LANCASTER AND LIVERPOOL. The
Lancaster and Liverpool Steam Navigation and Shipping Company's
splendid new Steam-packet DUCHESS OF LANCASTER, 100-horse power,
ALEXANDER KENNEDY, Commander, sails as under, (with or without a
Pilot,) twice a week, With Goods and Passengers. FROM LIVERPOOL,
Seacombe Slip, Prince's Pierhead. To-morrow, (Saturday,) the 12th
inst., at 6 o'clock Morning. REFRESHMENTS PROVIDED ON BOARD. Cabin
6s, Fore cabin. 3s. 6d. N.B. - Shippers will please to take notice,
that Goods for the above vessel must be sent down to the Clarence Dock
Basin every Tuesday and Friday. The Lancaster and Liverpool Steam
Navigation and Shipping Company, having made arrangements with Mr.
Machell, goods for Kendal will be delivered at his Wharf, and
forwarded by him the same day, thereby ensuing despatch and avoiding
the inconvenience and delay of transhipment at Glasson Dock. For
freight or passage apply to the Agents, JOHN RIGG, St. George's Quay,
Lancaster; D. M'ARTHUR and Co., 17, Goree, Brunswick-street,
Liverpool.
[from Westmorland Gazette - Saturday 09 April 1842]:
Emigration. The timber-ship Charlotte, Captain Farrie, sailed from
Glasson Dock on Thursday with about fifty people, all from the
neighbourhood of Lancaster, emigrating to Canada. On the vessel being
towed out of Glasson Dock by the Duchess of Lancaster steamer, she was
greeted with the cheers and loud farewells of the friends of the
emigrants assembled to bid them adieu and a happy home in their
newly-adopted country.
[from Preston Chronicle - Saturday 15 July 1848]:
TRIPS TO FURNESS ABBEY. On Thursday last the steamers James Dennistoun
and Duchess of Lancaster sailed [from Old Quay, Lancaster] for Piel
Pier on a pleasure excursion. There were about 300 passengers; but
the "Duchess" had by far the largest share, owing to her remaining
longer. At night tide the excursionists arrived safely, having spent a
very pleasant day.
[from Morning Chronicle - Saturday 18 January 1851]:
ADMIRALTY COURT. [Before Dr. Lushington.] THE LOOCHRISTIE - DAMAGE.
In this case, the owner of the steamer Duchess of Lancashire, of 133
tons, proceeds against the Loochristie, a Dutch vessel of 242 tons,
for damage occasioned by a collision about 12 o'clock on the night of
the 5th of October last, between Black Rock Light and Crosby
light-ship in the Mersey. Each vessel was injured, and there are
cross suits pending. For the steamer, it was stated that she was deep
in the water, and was bound from Liverpool to Lancaster,....
[from Northern Daily Times - Tuesday 11 March 1856]:
FOR SALE by AUCTION, on Thursday next, 13th inst., at One o'clock, at
the Broker's saleroom, Walmer-buildings, Water-street, the
well-known Steamer, DUCHESS OF LANCASTER, 133 tons per register. Built by
Mr. John Laird at Birkenhead; has two lever engines of ninety horse
power, carries a large cargo, and has been constantly trading between
this port and Lancaster. Apply to CURRY & CO., Brokers for the Sale of
Ships.
[from Lancaster Gazette - Saturday 03 October 1857]:
The Duchess of Lancaster. The Quay side at Lancaster is now deserted
by all except Mosquito fleet which each spring tides bring a supply of
shell and other fish. The Duchess of Lancaster has made her final trip
as a Liverpool and Lancaster trader, and ere this has been delivered to
her new owners. She arrived on Thursday morning, and at half-past 9
o'clock the same evening she finally left the Quay side, and fired two
guns as a parting salute. We understand that it will be the middle of
December, at the soonest, before the new steamer is ready, and in the
meantime all sea communication between Liverpool and Lancaster will be
suspended during the intervening period, unless some other parties put
on a vessel to fill up the vacancy.
[from Ulverston Mirror and Furness Reflector - Saturday 26 January 1861]:
... The following Shares in the undermentioned well known and
substantial Coasting Vessels, namely: [with Burthen in tons].
16-64th Shares in the Schooner Rigby 118;
16-64th Shares in the Schooner Loftus 120;
16-64th Shares in the Schooner Ann and Ellen 100;
16-64th Shares in the Brigantine Confidence 125;
14-64th Shares in the Brigantine Gleaner 140;
8-64th Shares in the Brig Egeria 200;
8-64th Shares in the Three-masted Schooner Duchess of Lancaster 280;
8-64th Shares in the Schooner Mary 145;
8-64th Shares in the Schooner Mayflower 140;
2-64th Shares in the Schooner Thomas Pearson 200;
4-64th Shares in the Brigantine Octavia 165.
For particulars apply to Mr. Thos. Fisher, Salthouse Villa, near Barrow.
[from Liverpool Mercury - Tuesday 27 January 1863]:
MELANCHOLY SHIPWRECK AND LOSS of SEVEN LIVES. - The three-masted
schooner Duchess of Lancaster, of Dublin, formerly a paddlewheel
steamer, left that port in ballast on Thursday, bound for Whitehaven.
While on her passage she was overtaken by the storm, and late on
Thursday night or early on Friday morning was driven on shore on
Langness Point, where she speedily became a total wreck. Only one
boy was saved[sic]; all the rest of the crew - the captain and six men -
meeting with a watery grave.
[from IOM Heritage, quoting inquest evidence]:
The survivor, John Prussia, an able seaman, gave evidence: aboard were
Captain John Walsh, mate John Byrne, AB's John McFall and Thomas
Wheldon, OS Robert McKillip, a cook, and a boy Thomas Wilkinson [8 in
all; the Captain was described as new to the vessel].
Fleetwood passenger services (overview of early services: details of steamers below).
[from Liverpool Mail - Thursday 22 April 1841]:
Steam Navigation. RAPID STEAM COMMUNICATION BETWEEN GLASGOW and
MANCHESTER, BIRMINGHAM. LONDON. &c. in connexion the Glasgow and
Ardrossan, and the Preston and Wyre Railways. The celebrated Steam-Ship
FIRE KING. Robert Ewing, Commander; is intended to
commence running, early in the mouth of May, from the PORT of FLEETWOOD
for ARDROSSAN, on the of evening of every TUESDAY AND THURSDAY as early as possible
after the arrival of the Railway Trains from London &c.; and leaving
ARDROSSAN for PORT OF FLEETWOOD the Afternoon of every WEDNESDAY AND
FRIDAY, to meet the Railway Trains which start from Fleetwood for the
various places every Morning.
[from Cumberland Pacquet, and Ware's Whitehaven Advertiser - Tuesday 13 July 1841]:
STEAM COMMUNICATION BETWEEN WHITEHAVEN, DUMFRIES, AND FLEETWOOD. THE
NEW AND RAPID STEAMER, PRINCE ALBERT, MATTHEW BANKS, Commander, WILL ply
between Whitehaven, Dumfries, and Fleetwood, and sail to and from each
Port at the Times following: JULY. [weekly Whitehaven - Dumfries and weekly
Fleetwood - Whitehaven.
[from Preston Chronicle - Saturday 20 November 1841]:
CHEAP AND EXPEDITIOUS STEAM COMMUNICATION WITH BELFAST AND
ULVERSTON. The Powerful STEAM SHIP, VICTORIA, Capt.
McKibbin will ply regularly, during the Winter Months,
from FLEETWOOD to BELFAST and back, once each week, leaving
Fleetwood every TUESDAY Evening, ... and returning from Belfast every Friday.
The fine steamer James Dennistoun, Capt Edwards, plies weekly
between Ulverston and Fleetwood, leaving Fleetwood on Thursday, and
returning from Bardsea the next day.
[from Westmorland Gazette - Saturday 09 April 1842]:
Ulverston: The steam packet the James Dennistoun, which plies between
Fleetwood and Bardsea, has during the late winter been extremely well
encouraged, and we understand it intends to ply twice a week for the
future, no doubt proving a most advantageous project for this district.
[from Liverpool Standard and General Commercial Advertiser - Tuesday 17 May 1842]:
The MONA'S ISLE is intended to leave DOUGLAS for FLEETWOOD every
Monday Morning, at Nine o'clock, returning from FLEETWOOD every Tuesday
Afternoon, at Ten o'clock, commencing on the 30th of May. Cabin Fare
6s 6d ...
[from Preston Chronicle - Saturday 25 February 1843]:
NORTH LANCASHIRE
STEAM NAVIGATION COMPANY. THE Public are respectfully informed that
the new Iron Steamer, "WARRINGTON," will be on the Berth, in Newry, on
the First of March, to take in Goods for Fleetwood. The fine Steamer,
"ECLIPSE," will commence plying between Liverpool and Fleetwood, and
Kirkcudbright and Fleetwood, the first week in March, and continue a
regular Steamer between these Ports. The Company have concluded the
purchase of one of the most superior and powerful Steam Ships afloat,
which will take up the line between Belfast and Fleetwood, on the 12th
of March. Arrangements are in progress to ensure daily communication
between Glasgow and Fleetwood, and Ardrossan. For particulars apply to
HENRY SMITH, acting partner and, manager, the Wharf, Fleetwood; or No.
6, Chapel Walks, Preston. 18th February, 1843.
[from Preston Chronicle - Saturday 25 November 1843]:
BEST ROUTE TO BELFAST FOR PASSENGERS & GOODS, VIA FLEETWOOD. THE NORTH
LANCASHIRE COMPANY'S New Iron Steamer, "PRINCE OF WALES," Alexander
McNeilege, Commander, 550-tons burthen, 260 horse power, sails
regularly between FLEETWOOD and BELFAST. From FLEETWOOD Every
Wednesday and Saturday evening, after the arrival of the Trains which
leave London at a quarter before ten in the morning, Birmingham
quarter before three in the afternoon, Manchester at half-past five
in the evening, Liverpool at a quarter-past five in the evening, and
Preston at half past seven in the evening. From BELFAST. Every Monday
and Friday Evening, arriving at Fleetwood in time for the Morning
Trains to London, Liverpool, Manchester, &c. FARES - Saloon, 15s.;
Fore Cabin, 10s.; Deck, 5s. No Fees to Stewards. This Vessel is fitted
up with superior accommodation for Passengers, and those who have
travelled this route declare it to be the best mode of crossing the
Channel. The Railway Carriages go along side the Steamer. The whole
journey has frequently been performed IN 21 HOURS FROM LONDON TO
BELFAST, The passage by the the Steamer being made in NINE Hours and a
HALF.
FLEETWOOD AND LONDONDERRY. The powerful Steamer, "ROBERT
NAPIER," 450 tons, and 220 horse power, will sail from Fleetwood every
Friday morning, at ten o'clock, till further notice, and From LONDONDERRY,
every Tuesday.
The superior Steamer "ECLIPSE," late of
London, J. R. Bell, commander, sails regularly between LIVERPOOL and
FLEETWOOD, calling off BLACKPOOL (weather permitting) with Goods and
Passengers, for PRESTON, ULVERSTON, &c., &c., usually making the
passage in 4 hours. The "ECLIPSE" leaves Liverpool every Tuesday and
Friday. Goods for Shipment must be sent to the Trafalgar Dock, and
passengers will he taken on Board at the George's Pier Head. From
Fleetwood every Wednesday and Saturday.
For particulars of Freight,
&c., apply to Mr HENRY SMITH, Agent and Manager, Fleetwood; and 6,
Chapel Walks, Preston; Mr. ROBERT HENDERSON, Donegall Quay,
Belfast; Messrs. Wm. DOYLE and Co., 11, Goree Piazza, and at the
Trafalgar Dock, Liverpool; Mr. JOHN MEW, Londonderry; Mr. J. J. BIRCHALL,
Exchange Buildings, Manchester; or at the COMPANY'S OFFICE, 8, St.
Swithin's Lane, London. Fleetwood, Sept., 1843.
[from Preston Chronicle - Saturday 06 January 1844]:
PRINCE OF WALES, 530 tons, 260 horse power, A. M'Neilage, Commander,
PRINCESS ALICE, 500 tons, 220 horse power, J. M. Wilson,
Commander; ROYAL MAIL STEAM SHIPS. FLEETWOOD AND BELFAST. FROM
FLEETWOOD, every MONDAY, WEDNESDAY, and SATURDAY, carrying
Letters from the Manchester and Preston Post Offices, and sailing
shortly after the arrival of the Trains that leave London at Ten,
Birmingham Three o'clock, Manchester Five via Parkside, or twenty
minutes to Six by Bolton, and Liverpool at a quarter past Five,
arriving about Nine in Fleetwood. These Steamers leave BELFAST every
MONDAY, WEDNESDAY, and FRIDAY. ...
FLEETWOOD AND LONDONDERRY. From Fleetwood, every Friday, calling at
Port Rush, the powerful Steamer, ROBERT NAPIER, returning from
Londonderry every Tuesday.
[from Liverpool Mercury - Friday 14 February 1845]:
FLEETWOOD STEAM-SHIPS FOR GLASGOW, BELFAST, LONDONDERRY,
and DUBLIN.
FOR GLASGOW, The new Iron Steamships HER MAJESTY,
Captain J. WILSON, ROYAL CONSORT, Captain EWING, 700 tons, and 350-horse power,
Every Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday Evenings, from FLEETWOOD and ARDROSSAN.
FOR LONDONDERRY, The Iron Steam-ship PRINCESS ALICE, L.
Humphreys, Commander. From FLEETWOOD, every Thursday Evening.
From LONDONDERRY, every Saturday
FOR BELFAST, The Iron Steam-ships PRINCE OF WALES, Captain M'Neilage,
PRINCESS ALICE, Captain L Humphreys. 500 tons 250 hp.
From FLEETWOOD every Monday, Wednesday and Saturday Evenings. From BELFAST
every Moday, Wednesday and Friday.
Port of Fleetwood:
Wooden steam dredge Success for Fleetwood, built Speakman, Fleetwood, 1840. Length 100 ft, engine 20hp. Described as the same design as the Preston dredge. Described as a wooden screw steamer, bucket dredger.
[from Preston Chronicle - Saturday 25 January 1840]:
LAUNCH OF A STEAM DREDGE, AT FLEETWOOD. On Tuesday last, about
half-past twelve o'clock, the steam dredge, built for the Wyre Harbour
Company by Mr. Speakman, of this town, was launched in the harbour at
Fleetwood. The dredge is exactly in the same plan as that built by Mr.
Speakman for the Ribble Navigation Company. Notwithstanding the
unfavourable state of the weather, there was a very large concourse of
spectators to witness the launch. Mrs. Denham, the lady of Captain
Denham RN, performed the office of sponsor, and gave the name of
"Success" to the new vessel. A band of music from this town was in
attendance, which, together with the hoisting of flags in all
convenient places, and the great influx of visitors, created great
cheerfulness and bustle in the embryo town. After the launch, a
dinner took place at Mr. Horsby's, the Fleetwood Arms Hotel, at which
most of the persons connected with the works at Fleetwood, and about
one hundred workmen were present. ...
[from John Bull - Monday 03 February 1840]:
On Tuesday last, a first class steam-dredge, of upwards of 100 feet in
length, and adapted to lift 300 tons of submarine matter per hour from
17 feet below the water line, was launched at Port Fleetwood amidst
the huzzas of the vast crowds assembled on both shores of the harbour,
the firing of gnns, and the performances of a band of music. This
substantial vessel has been built at Fleetwood-upon-Wyre, by
Mr. Speakman, under the directions of Capt. Denham. F.R.S., consulting
marine surveyor for the Wyre Harbour improvements. A party of 80 were
regaled, and toasted this rapidly increasing undertaking. The day was
most boisterous, a strong gale north west, but it proved the well
adapted site for ship building, for this rather ponderous fabric was
launched, at the height of the gale, in perfect safely, into tidal
water, which permits a vessel of 20 feet draugbt to be afloat at
half-springs at merely half her length from the ways. This vessel will
afford a powerful auxiliary to the operations which Captain Denham is
conducting. His rate of progress may now be conceived, when it is
stated that during her preparation 30,000 cubic yards of protruding
matter has been removed, and a tide-deserting dam of 40,000 yards for
concentrating the reflux of the Wyre estuary has been effected. We are enabled
to state also, that the Foot of Wyre Lighthoose, reared upon
screw-piles within pistolshot of 20 fathom water, and intended to be
lighted by dioptree[sic] order of light in March, has, to the immortalising
of Mitchell's patent screw-piles and to the marine surveyor's proposition,
unflinchingly braved the unnsual trial of a gale from open sea at the
height of a springtide. The two other lighthonses (on shore) are in
course of erection, so that a leading line right in may be anticipated
for dead half-neaps by July next, thus rendering it as easy and "as safe
as Wyre-water".
[Herapath's Railway Journal - Saturday 06 June 1840]:
The steam dredge built for the Company is entirely completed, and
about to commence operations, which, from her great power and
improved machinery, will certainly proceed with great rapidity and
effect. A steamer of sixty-five horse power has been purchased by the
Company, and arrived at Fleetwood on Saturday. It is intended for the
double of acting as a tug steamer in assisting vessels to go in and
out of the harbour during adverse winds, and also for the purpose of
assisting in the harbour works. A recent letter from Captain Denham
stated that the steamer being now purchased, and which is intended to
run between Fleetwood and Ulverstone, is one of the fastest and best
on the Clyde, and would also be most convenient for landing
passengers at Ulverstone, from her very small draft of water.
[from Fleetwood Chronicle - Saturday 25 October 1845]:
From inquiry into port of Fleetwood:
Capt. Head [Fleetwood harbour master] The dredge is 20 horses power, length of ladder 47 feet,
and will work in 12 feet water. The dredge brings up in 6 days 2,380
tons, and in fine weather will lift 400 tons per day. Generally work
14 pontoons but have 30, all of which are sometimes used.
... Have two steamers adapted as tugs.
... Capt M'Neilage [master of Prince of Wales, steamer]: draws 9 feet and can come up to the
quays at low water neap and sail at 5 hours ebb.
[from Preston Chronicle - Saturday 12 May 1849]:
DEEPENING OF THE RIVER WYRE. - The steam-dredge, which has been laid up
all winter, was brought out and put into operation on Monday morning
last, to the gratification of a great number of labouring men, who
will thereby obtain employment, and to the manifest advantage of
different portions of the river.
[from Morning Herald (London) - Wednesday 22 September 1847]:
The Royal squadron made Fleetwood in safety at seven o'clock on Monday
night, and as the Royal yacht led the way up the river, she was
welcomed by the most hearty cheers of thousands, and a Royal salute
fired from the shore. As soon as the Royal yacht was moored to the
pier, the high sheriff, accompanied by General Sir Thomas Arbuthnot,
General Sir William Warren, Sir Hesketh Fleetwood, Bart., Henry
Houldsworth, Esq., W. Marshall, Esq., and Captain Huish, went on board
to pay their respects to her Majesty, and receive her Royal commands.
They were at once admitted to Lord Palmerston, and Sir Hesketh
Fleetwood, through Lord Palmerston, presented to the Queen an address
from the inhabitants of the town of Fleetwood. Afterwards the Mayor of
Preston presented a similar address. ...
Back to index
Wooden steamer Cupid, built Wood & Richie, Port Glasgow 1828, 19nrt, 20hp. Owned Sir Peter Hesketh, Fleetwood, 1840, then 1843 by Preston & Wyre Railway Harbour & Dock. Also listed 1851 as registered Preston June 1840, owned Preston & Wyre Railway Harbour & Dock, 55.5 x 10.0ft, 19nrt, 35grt. More detail
[from Preston Chronicle - Saturday 22 June 1839]:
Fleetwood-on-Wyre. Arrived. steamer Cupid from Heysham and Ulverston, with coals, stone
and slates for J. Seed, and others.
[from Kendal Mercury - Saturday 25 July 1840]:
Ulverston. Arrived.
19 (Steamer) Cupid, Dennison, Fleetwood, passengers.
20 (Steamer) Express, Bennett, Fleetwood, passengers.
20 (Steamer) Windermere, Lamb, Liverpool, passengers.
Wooden paddle steamer Express, built Robert Barclay, Glasgow,
1836, 151 grt, 90 nrt, 70hp engines. Initially on Glasgow - Helensburgh service. In 1840
owned Sir Peter Hesketh, Fleetwood, and registered there. Broken up 1847.
More detail.
[from Kendal Mercury - Saturday 11 July 1840]: [from Cumberland Pacquet, and Ware's Whitehaven Advertiser - Tuesday 04 August 1840]: [from Preston Chronicle - Saturday 26 September 1840]: [from Westmorland Gazette - Saturday 08 May 1841]: [from Gore's Liverpool General Advertiser - Thursday 22 July 1841]: [from Preston Chronicle - Saturday 02 September 1843]: [from Preston Chronicle - Saturday 03 August 1844]: Wooden steamer Nile, listed at Preston 1845 as built
Blackwall 1842, 67nrt, 40hp. Also listed
1851 as registered Preston June 1847, owned Preston & Wyre Railway
Harbour & Dock, 106.3 x 14.7ft, 67nrt, 101grt. [same owner as Cupid and James Dennistoun]
Summer excursion to/from Fleetwood, Preston, Blackpool, Piel, Glasson, Menai,.. 1843-53.
For sale at Fleetwood 1854, at Liverpool 1855.
More details.
Note SS Nile wrecked 30 November 1854 is an iron screw steamer - not this vessel.
[from Preston Chronicle - Saturday 27 May 1843]: [from Preston Chronicle - Saturday 01 July 1843]: [from Liverpool Mercury - Friday 19 May 1854]: [from Gore's Liverpool General Advertiser - Thursday 27 December 1855]: Iron paddle steamer Helvellyn (ex - Lochlong),
built Craig, Glasgow, 1842, 153 grt, 87 nrt, 131.1 x 16.5 x 8.3 ft, 75
hp engine, ON 17244. Initially on Glasgow - Helensburgh service. In
1848 renamed Helvellyn and owned Furness Railway Co. 1850-2 listed as
passenger certified, based Barrow.
Registered Lancaster 1851. By 1868 registered and owned Liverpool. To
Brazil 1870. More
details.
Advert for 1848 service Fleetwood - Piel.
Advert for 1849 service Fleetwood - Barrow.
Wooden paddle steamer Eclipse, built Blackwall,
Thames, 1829, 128 tons, 125 x 19 x 7ft, engines 70hp by Boulton &
Watt. Served on London - Dartmouth route, then refurbished by Rigby,
Hawarden, 1841, and used Fleetwood - Liverpool and Fleetwood -
Kirkcudbright during 1843. For sale at Tranmere 1845. Note: there
were many steamers called Eclipse [that built Lang & Denny, Dumbarton
1826 was in use from Wexford until 1846 - details]
[from Liverpool Standard and General Commercial Advertiser - Tuesday 13 April 1841]: [from Preston Chronicle - Saturday 27 May 1843]: [from Gore's Liverpool General Advertiser - Thursday 11 December 1845]: Reported in 1845 list of potential steam gun-boats
as at Preston; built Blackwall 1829, 106 tons, 70hp. Not included in 1851 list of Preston
registered vessels.
Wooden steamer Scotia, built Robert Steele,
Greenock 1828, 185grt, 166 tb, 127.3 x 20.0, engines 400ihp, paddles.
First owner Dublin & Glasgow Sailing & Steam Packet Co, Dublin, Then
1834 St George Steam Packet Co, Dublin. Served Belfast - Fleetwood in
1842. By 1844 in Malta. Broken up and beached after collision near Tunis 13 January 1848.
More history with image.
[from Preston Pilot - Saturday 14 May 1842]: [from Preston Chronicle - Saturday 28 May 1842]: [from Saint James's Chronicle - Tuesday 01 February 1848]: [from Patriot - Thursday 03 February 1848]: [from Hull Advertiser - Friday 04 February 1848]: Wooden paddle steamer Robert Napier, built John Wood, Port Glasgow, 1832,
206 tons om, 138.9 x 2.7 x 14.11 ft, 180hp engines by Robert Napier. Initial service
Liverpool - Londonderry (NW of Ireland SP Co). On fire 24 July 1844 and beached
at Ballycastle. Sold to Mr Coppin and repaired. For sale 1845 - sold foreign.
More details.
Reported 1843 as calling at Fleetwood for Londonderry.
[from Liverpool Mail - Saturday 27 July 1844]
The Robert Napier (steamer) left Londonderry for this port, 24th
instant, and took fire between Port Rush and Ballycastle. She was
burnt from the quarter-deck aft, and was run ashore at Ballycastle.
Engines and boilers saved, also part of cargo; no lives lost.
Wooden steamer Isabella Napier, built John Wood, Port Glasgow, 1835,
424grt, 242nrt, 150 x 23.1 x 5.9ft, engines 220hp by Robert Napier, ON 17946.
Initially Londonderry - Liverpool service. In 1844-5 services from Fleetwood.
More
detail, and image
[from Bolton Chronicle - Saturday 13 July 1844]: [From Preston Chronicle - Saturday 05 July 1845]:
PORT OF PRESTON. - The following is a list of the steamers of this
port: all, excepting the two first, however, belong to the "creek" of
Fleetwood:- the "Lily," 42 tons, one gun; "Experiment," one gun;
"Tobermory," 47 tons, capable of bearing two guns; "James
Dennistoun," 76 tons, three guns; "Prince of Wales," 313 tons, eight
guns; "Eclipse," 108 tons, four guns; "Nile," 67 tons, two guns;
"Express," 20 tons, four guns; "Princess Alice," 257 tons, eight guns;
"Isabella Napier," 237 tons, ten guns; "Her Majesty," 296 tons, ten
guns; "Royal Consort," 296 tons, ten guns; and the "Orion."
Iron paddle steamer Prince of Wales, built Tod, M'Gregor,
1842, 500 tons, 313nrt, 159.6 x 24.6 x 13.5 ft, engines 250 hp by builder. ON
17230. Initially on Liverpool - Cork service. Collided with Royal Victoria
in Mersey on 31 November 1842. Served Fleetwood - Belfast - Ardrossan from May 1843.
Collided with sloop Jane & Jenny off Point of Ayr on 26th August 1848, 3 lost, refloated.
More detail.
In 1869 converted to sail - named Rose Brae - as a barque. Sunk by collision with an iceberg
on voyage Galveston - Liverpool, 20 April 1875.
[from Preston Chronicle - Saturday 02 September 1848]: [from Preston Chronicle - Saturday 16 December 1848]: Involved in saving lives from PS Lyra wrecked in
1861: the rescuing vessel, PS Prince of Wales, was built 1842 by Tod
MacGregor, was owned by the Lancashire and Yorkshire Railway Company
and provided a Fleetwood-Belfast service. She was anchored, with steam
up, near the Wyre light, waiting for the tide to rise before heading
in to Fleetwood. She was alerted to the demise of the Lyra by
Fleetwood Pilot John Hesketh who was a lookout on the Wyre light.
[from Liverpool Daily Post - Tuesday 04 May 1875]: Iron paddle steamer Princess Alice, built Tod, M'Gregor,
1843, 500 tons, 195 x 27.3 x 13.8ft, engines 212 hp by builder. ON
17233, Served Fleetwood - Belfast from November 1843.
More detail
[from Preston Chronicle - Saturday 28 October 1843]: Iron paddle steamer Her Majesty, built Tod,
M'Gregor, 1844, 521 tons, 292 nrt, 160 x 25 x 13 ft, engines 300 hp by
builder. Served Fleetwood - Belfast from 1844. [from Manchester Times - Saturday 21 September 1844]: Her Majesty in 1844 by J Livingstone (Fleetwood Museum):
Iron paddle steamer Royal Consort, built Tod, M'Gregor, 1844, 522grt 297nrt,
177.9 x 25.2 x 15.2 ft, engines by builder, ON 17252. Service from Fleetwood 1844 on.
Wreck 30 April 1845 at Dunmore, later refloated and repaired.
More details with image
Iron steamer Orion, built Halifax shipyard, Ipswich 1840, 226grt,
133nrt, 161 x 21.5 x 9.6 ft, engines 120hp, ON 950. Served Fleetwood -
Isle of Man from 1845-7. Registered Preston 1846, included in list of steam vessels at Fleetwood 1845. Registered Goole 1850.
MNL reports registered London 1854, last MNL entry 1863.
More
detail. Note this is a diferent vessel than that lost near Portpatrick in 1850.
[from Suffolk Chronicle - Saturday 24 October 1840]: [from Suffolk Chronicle - Saturday 22 May 1841]: [from Lancaster Gazette - Saturday 21 June 1845]: Iron steamer Fenella, built Vernon, Liverpool,
1846, 304 tons(om), 150 x 20/24 x 8.5 ft, engines 100hp, owned Kemp & Laidley of
Fleetwood, for service to Isle of Man. Registered at Fleetwood March 1850, as
177.9 x 25.2, 303nrt, 522grt. Also service Fleetwood - Bardsea and to
Londonderry. In 1854 refitted to sail to Australia.
[from London Evening Standard - Thursday 25 June 1846]: [from Preston Chronicle - Saturday 06 June 1846]: [from Birmingham Journal - Saturday 01 May 1847]: [from Soulby's Ulverston Advertiser and General Intelligencer - Thursday 08 November 1849]: [from Fleetwood Chronicle - Friday 21 July 1848]: [from Preston Chronicle - Saturday 09 June 1849]: [from Shipping and Mercantile Gazette - Tuesday 03 January 1854]: [from Lancaster Gazette - Saturday 01 April 1854]: Steamer Fenella, Cox, from Fleetwood at Rio, Oct 14 1854.
Arrivals at Melbourne, February 20 1855, Fenella, Cox, from Fleetwood.
Wooden steamer Londonderry, built Steele,
Greenock, 1841, 511grt, 277nrt, 157.1 x 22.9 x 15.7 ft, engines by
Napier, registered Londonderry. Was involved in a serious accident in 1848. More
history.
Iron steamer Thistle, built Napier, Govan, 1848,
653grt, 377nrt, 198.4 x 26.3 x 6 ft, engines 350 hp - ex-Rambler. Registered
Londonderry. Thistle wrecked near
Sligo in 1858. More
history.
[from Preston Chronicle - Saturday 12 May 1849]: Ferry boat accident: Knott End to Fleetwood, 13 November 1863, 1 lost.
[from Fleetwood Chronicle - Friday 20 November 1863]: Information
about Knott End steam ferries (1892 on).
Wooden steamer Saint Andrew, built, Lang,
Dumbarton 1826, 84 tons (om), 99.5 x 16.11 x 9.7ft, 50hp engine by
Napier, owned and registered Glasgow. By 1828 owned Whitehaven Steam
Navigation Company: service Glasgow - Whitehaven - Liverpool, etc.
Sold to Barcelona 1836 - renamed Delfin.
Reported as first steamer to call at Creetown, in the 1820s.
More history
[from Cumberland Pacquet, and Ware's Whitehaven Advertiser - Tuesday 17 June 1828]: [from Gore's Liverpool General Advertiser - Thursday 14 April 1836]: [from Liverpool Standard and General Commercial Advertiser - Friday 16 September 1836]: Wooden steamer Earl of Lonsdale, built T & J
Brocklebank, Whitehaven, 1834, 250 grt, 150 nrt, 125.4 x 20.1 x 13.4
ft, 160 hp engines, paddles, owned Whitehaven Navigation Co.,
registered Whitehaven May 1835. Sold 1853 for use in Mediterranean.
She is listed as passenger
certified at Liverpool in 1853, and registered there in 1855.
More Details
[from Liverpool Albion - Tuesday 01 November 1836]: [from Liverpool Standard and General Commercial Advertiser - Tuesday 04 January 1853]: [from Cumberland Pacquet, and Ware's Whitehaven Advertiser - Tuesday 01 March 1853]: Earl of Lonsdale, master Grenfell, reported at Gibraltar, 17th
September 1853, having called into Hayle for coal 3rd September, en
route. In 1854 left Gibraltar towing the Cornwall Transport - as part
of the Crimean war effort. Mentioned in newspapers up until 1859.
Iron steamer Queen, built Vernon, Liverpool, 1844, 434grt, 304nrt,
158.5 x 23.5 x 13.4, 180hp engine, paddles, ON 9235, owned Whitehaven
Steam Navigation Co., registered Whitehaven 1835, remained on Whitehaven - Liverpool
service until 1873. Launched as Ocean Queen.
14 December 1866, collision between Whitehaven and tug Retriever
towing ship Hannibal off Liverpool. Queen is reported as resuming
excursions by mid 1867, still owned Whitehaven Steam Packet Company,
last newspaper mention on Liverpool - Whitehaven route seems to be
August 1873. MNL gives owned J & I Hodgson, Whitehaven, to 1872, then registered
Ardrossan, owned Robert Henderson, Belfast.
More detail.
[from Liverpool Albion - Monday 16 December 1844]: [from Cumberland Pacquet, and Ware's Whitehaven Advertiser - Tuesday 17 March 1846]: [from Whitehaven News - Thursday 22 March 1860]: [from Liverpool Shipping Telegraph and Daily Commercial Advertiser
- Saturday 15 December 1866]: Iron steam dredge for Whitehaven, built Neath Abbey 1848, 16 hp, length 90ft,
33 buckets.
[a vessel named Charlotte of 88grt is listed as built by Neath Abbey in 1848 -
possibly this vessel]
[from Whitehaven Advertiser - Tuesday 27 June 1848]: [from Carlisle Journal - Friday 01 December 1848]: Iron steamer Whitehaven, built Vernon, Liverpool,
1848, 84nrt, 181 x 24ft, engines by Butterly, Derby, owned Whitehaven Steam Navigation Co.,
registered Whitehaven 1848, 333 tons, ON 9221,
latest MNL listing 1860. In 1860 rebuilt by Jack, Victoria Engine
works, Liverpool: lengthened to 225ft, breadth 25.4ft, now 687 grt.
also new boilers. Probably sold foreign 1861.
[from Liverpool Mail - Saturday 10 June 1848]: [from Cumberland Pacquet, and Ware's Whitehaven Advertiser - Tuesday 06 June 1848]: [from Gore's Liverpool General Advertiser - Thursday 01 July 1858]: [from Carlisle Journal - Friday 17 February 1860]: [from Liverpool Daily Post - Wednesday 07 November 1860]: Wooden steamer Prince Albert, built Kennedy,
Lumley & Co, Whitehaven 1840, 87grt, 37 nrt, 82.1 x 15.0 x 8.4 ft,
engines 65hp by Tulk & Ley, ON 9377, owned by Trustees of the Harbour
& Town of Whitehaven to 1868. Excursions to Dumfries and Fleetwood
1841. Cumbria register states broken up at Liverpool 1870. More
detail.
[from Cumberland Pacquet, and Ware's Whitehaven Advertiser - Tuesday 30 April 1839]: [from Carlisle Patriot - Saturday 29 August 1840]: [from Cumberland Pacquet, and Ware's Whitehaven Advertiser - Tuesday 09 November 1841]: [from Cumberland Pacquet, and Ware's Whitehaven Advertiser - Tuesday 25 January 1842]: Note: Chester built steam tug Dairy
Maid, was hired to serve as a tug at Maryport, while Rambler was
under repair, in 1851, but had to be rescued by the Prince Albert.
Note: the Dublin based steam tug Lady
Charlotte was chartered in 1854 to provide a service while Prince
Albert was under repair. She sank 29th April 1854 en route.
[from Cumberland Pacquet, and Ware's Whitehaven Advertiser - Tuesday 30 June 1868]: [from Cumberland Pacquet, and Ware's Whitehaven
Advertiser - Tuesday 12 February 1861]: Wooden paddle steamer Union, built Scott, Greenock, 1833,
100 tons(om), 111 x 17.6 x 11.6 ft, owned Workington & Maryport SN Co.,
Service Liverpool - Workington - Maryport. Advertized until November 1841.
Reboilered by Fawcett & Preston in 1837/8.
More details.
[from Cumberland Pacquet, and Ware's Whitehaven Advertiser - Tuesday 23 April 1833]: [from Cumberland Pacquet, and Ware's Whitehaven Advertiser - Tuesday 08 July 1834]: [from Cumberland Pacquet, and Ware's Whitehaven Advertiser - Tuesday 03 October 1837]: [from Liverpool Albion - Tuesday 14 November 1837]: [from Gore's Liverpool General Advertiser - Thursday 01 February 1838]: Wooden steam tug Derwent, built Woodhouse, South
Shields, 1849, 51grt, 18nrt, 73.8 x 15.7 x 8.7ft, 35hp, paddles, ON 14609,
owned Port & Harbour of Workington. Broken up 1887.
On fire 1849, but repaired.
More details, with photo
[from Morning Herald (London) - Thursday 01 November 1849]: [from Carlisle Patriot - Saturday 02 February 1850]: Wooden steam tug Rambler, built William Cooper,
North Shields, 1846, 55grt, 15nrt, 69.9 x 14.0 x 8.0ft, 28 hp engines,
paddle, ON 12603, Owned Ismay, Maryport, registered Maryport from December
1846. Later owned Maryport Steam Shipping Co. Broken up 1883.
Damaged by fire 22 Nov 1849. In MNL to 1883.
More details.
[from Carlisle Journal - Friday 06 October 1848]: [from Northern Star and Leeds General Advertiser - Saturday 24 November 1849]: [from Carlisle Patriot - Saturday 08 June 1850]: On 20 April 1851, paddle steamer, Dairymaid, of Chester, was voyaging from
Liverpool to Maryport to cover for PS Rambler which needed repairs.
She became leaky and was abandoned - with a subsequent dispute about
salvage rights.
[from Maryport Advertiser - Friday 04 May 1883]: Carlisle Ship Canal.
A Ship canal was built in 1822/3 from a basin near Carlisle to the
Solway Firth at Fisher's Cross, near Bowness. The seaward end became known as Port
Carlisle.
The canal ran for 11.5 miles from its mouth at Port Carlisle
(formerly Fishers Cross) to a city basin near the Carr's (presently
McVitie's) biscuit factory. There were 8 locks and it was built 18
feet wide. Its opening was an appropriately grand event. Newspaper
reports in 1823 estimated that around 20,000 people came out to watch a
flotilla of 11 ships, bedecked with flags and wreathed with the smoke
of cannon-fire, make a majestic progress along the canal and into the
city. For many of these observers, the sight of masted sailing ships
floating virtually beneath the city walls must have been a very exciting
event. The important thing to note is that this was a
ship canal, as in "Manchester Ship Canal" (though on perhaps a rather
more modest scale). Though relatively small, the ships in the
procession were ocean-going vessels, not mere barges, and ships from
Carlisle were capable of trading into the Baltic and even across the
Atlantic. They were hauled along the canal by horses.
Image of dock at Carlisle on opening ceremony in 1823
Few relics of the canal now remain. The curious may wonder how the
Jovial Sailor pub came to stand in Port Road in Shaddongate. The old
docks at Port Carlisle are still visible and may one day be suitable for
restoration as a marina. A few strangely-featured bridges and buildings
may still be observed in the fields between these two locations. But
there is little now to show for such an enormous expenditure of effort.
Nevertheless, the canal may be said to have left its mark in a much more
substantial way, namely the modern city of Carlisle.
The Carlisle Canal was built to improve facilities for coastal craft
from Liverpool, Ireland and Scottish ports already trading with the city
via the Solway Firth and the River Eden. Various proposals were made,
but the canal that opened in 1823 was eleven and a quarter miles long.
From a wooden jetty at Fisher's Cross, renamed Port Carlisle, through
the entrance lock and one other, the canal ran level for nearly six
miles. Then followed six locks in one and a quarter miles, with a level
stretch to Carlisle Basin. Packet boats and steamers ran to Liverpool
from 1826. Despite plans for improvements to navigation along the
estuary, and to the docks at the canal entrance, the canal succumbed to
competition from the railways and suffered the ultimate fate of being
drained, filled in and converted to railway use from 1852.
The Carlisle Canal closed around 1853, replaced by a railway in
1854; traffic from Liverpool mostly went to Whitehaven and then on to
Carlisle by railway when that line opened in 1850.
The need of an "out-port" for Carlisle was then taken by Silloth,
which had better tidal access, and is still in use today (2023).
A curiosity: wreck of Hannah
1824 from ice in the canal.
In 1826 two wooden paddle steamers, Solway and Cumberland
were ordered to provide a service from Port Carlisle to other ports.
They were built at Holyhead by Grayson & Howson, Grayson also having a
shipyard at Liverpool. The vessels sailed to London to have their
engines fitted by Boulton & Paul.
The arrival of Solway at Bowness [Port Carlisle] in July 1826 is
described in the local papers with great enthusiasm.
When the Newcastle to Carlisle railway was completed around 1834,
two new paddle steamers were bought, by different companies,
anticipating an increase in trade: Newcastle for
the Carlisle and Liverpool Steam Navigation Company, and City of Carlisle for Carlisle and Annan Steam
Navigation Company. At that time the Solway was transferred to other
duties - such as running to Belfast. And the Cumberland was sold to
Liverpool owners.
Wooden steamer Elizabeth, reported 1832 as trading from
Carlisle. Later, Elizabeth, Wright, is reported as trading - but not
as a steamer - so maybe her engines were removed.
[from Carlisle Patriot - Saturday 11 August 1832]: [from Carlisle Patriot - Saturday 01 September 1832]: Wooden steam tug Clarence, built Lang & Denny, Dumbarton, 1827,
60nrt, 92 x 16.3 x 8 ft, 45 hp engine by Napier, owned Napier for Clyde service.
Then 1839 owned Carlisle Canal Co., registered Carlisle. 1847 owned Birkenhead, as
Eastham Ferry,
registered Liverpool.
More details
[from Carlisle Journal - Saturday 03 November 1838]: [from Carlisle Patriot - Saturday 12 January 1839]: [from Cumberland Pacquet, and Ware's Whitehaven Advertiser - Tuesday 20 January 1846]: [from Carlisle Patriot - Friday 11 September 1846, and until Feb 1847]: Wooden steam tug Alice, built W Cooper & J
Gardner, North Shields, 1843, 10nrt, 34 grt, 56 x 13 ft, engines
16nhp, paddle, by Conley & Sons, North Shields, ON 14922.
Initially registered and owned at Newcastle. Bought 1846 by Annan & Liverpool Steam
Navigation Co, registered Carlisle. For sale 1850, owned and registered at Preston from 1852.
More details.
[from Carlisle Journal - Friday 04 August 1848]: [from Gore's Liverpool General Advertiser - Thursday 07 March 1850]: [from Preston Chronicle - Saturday 23 February 1856]: Steam tender/tug Engineer, used Port Carlisle from
about 1849, previously on Tyne, 40hp. Not listed in Cumbria shipping
register.
A possible listing [built
S Shields 1848, 24nrt, 78.5 x 16.7 ft, 28 hp paddles, wood, ON 7317, registered Sunderland].
Possibly the same vessel, when on the Tyne. [from Magnet (London) - Monday 04 September 1848]: [from Carlisle Journal - Friday 15 June 1849]: [from Carlisle Journal - Friday 06 July 1849]: [from Carlisle Journal - Friday 20 July 1849]: [from Liverpool Mercury - Friday 02 August 1850]: [from Carlisle Journal - Friday 30 August 1850]: [from Carlisle Patriot - Saturday 19 July 1851]: Wooden paddle steamer Cumberland built Grayson & Howson, Holyhead 1826
[from Cumberland Pacquet, and Ware's Whitehaven Advertiser - 08 August 1826]: [from Carlisle Journal - Saturday 15 March 1834]: [from Liverpool Albion - Tuesday 24 March 1835]: [from Liverpool Standard and General Commercial Advertiser - Friday 28 February 1840]: [from London Evening Standard - Monday 21 January 1850]: Wooden steamer Newcastle, built 1834 by Seddon &
Leadley, Birkenhead, 390 tons, 145 x 24 ft, engines 150 hp, for the
Carlisle and Liverpool Steam Navigation Company, ON 54. Later
described as 160hp engines by Messrs. Bury, Curtis, and Kennedy
[Liverpool builders of railway and marine steam engines]. For sale
1847 and seems to have been used for various temporary services and
then Liverpool- Mediterranean, then back on services from the Solway
until August 1854. Lloyd's register 1855 on gives her owner as North
of Europe Steam Navigation Company, registered London.
More
detail. Extra
history.
[from Carlisle Patriot - Saturday 01 March 1834]: [from Liverpool Albion - Monday 24 February 1834]: [from Liverpool Standard and General Commercial Advertiser - Friday 28 February 1840]: [from Carlisle Journal - Saturday 12 December 1846]: [from
Liverpool Mercantile Gazette and Myers's Weekly Advertiser - Monday 31 January 1848]: [Carlisle Journal - Saturday 08 May 1847]: [from Shipping and Mercantile Gazette - Tuesday 16 November 1847]: August 1849 advertised serving Warrenpoint - Liverpool, as
temporary replacement for Hercules.
1850 on voyage to Palermo, advertised for sale again.
[from Carlisle Journal - Friday 13 August 1852]: [from Carlisle Journal - Friday 21 July 1854]: Wooden steamer City of Carlisle, built 1834 by
Seddon & Leadley, Birkenhead, 181 tons, 131 x 22 ft, engines 120 hp by
Fawcett & Preston, Liverpool, for the Carlisle and Annan Steam
Navigation Company. Served until 1840. Then used Liverpool - Wexford;
for sale 1842, used later Goole - France.
More
detail.
Voyage Goole to Honfleur, aground off Wainfleet on 27 February 1844, Captain Proudlove
and crew of 13 saved in ship's boat. Vessel sank.
[from Cumberland Pacquet, and Ware's Whitehaven Advertiser - Tuesday 29 April 1834]: [from Carlisle Patriot - Saturday 28 September 1839]: [from
Carlisle Journal - Saturday 14 November 1840]: [from
Liverpool Mercantile Gazette and Myers's Weekly Advertiser - Monday 31 January 1842]: [from Lancaster Gazette - Saturday 09 March 1844]: Wooden steamer Royal Victoria, built Wilson, Liverpool 1837, 350grt,
316nrt, 146.6 x 22.6 x 10.3 ft, engines by Fawcett & Preston, 200hp, paddles, ON 14737. Owned Carlisle
and Liverpool Steam Navigation Co. By 1851 registered at Yarmouth.
More details.
Extra history.
[from Liverpool Standard and General Commercial Advertiser - Friday 26 May 1837]: [from Liverpool Mail - Saturday 03 December 1842]: [from Carlisle Journal - Friday 06 July 1849]: [from Gore's Liverpool General Advertiser - Thursday 12 December 1850]: Wooden steamer Hibernia, built Grayson & Leadley,
Liverpool, 1825, 300grt, 210nrt, 133 x 22.7 x 14ft, 130hp engine,
registered Liverpool, on Liverpool - Dublin service. Owned City of
Dublin SP Co. Later registered Dublin. Advertised Carlisle - Fleetwood
- Dublin in 1844, managed Carlisle & Annan SN Co., then Fleetwood -
Dublin, managed North Lancs Railway, later in 1844. Broken up 1849.
More history
[from Liverpool Mercury - Friday 17 June 1825]: [from Dublin Mercantile Advertiser, and Weekly Price Current - Monday 25 July 1825]: [from Carlisle Patriot - Saturday 06 April 1844]: [from Liverpool Albion - Monday 13 January 1845]: Iron paddle steamer Cumberland, built Tod,
M'Gregor, 1847, 605grt, 407 nrt, 234.5 x 25.3 x 13.6 ft, oscillating
engines of 298hp by builders, ON 5893. First owner Carlisle and
Liverpool Steam Navigation Co.
[from Carlisle Journal - Friday 04 January 1850]: Cumberland (steamer), Hart, is reported as arriving Lowestoft in May 1851.
[from Shipping and Mercantile Gazette - Thursday 30 December 1852]: Iron screw steamer Cumbria, built Toward, Newcastle, 1854.
Screw 70 nhp, 241nrt. Initially registered Maryport, ON 12636, for trade to Liverpool.
By 1860, registered Carlisle, trading from Silloth. In 1862, used as
a blockade runner, but captured, 26 May 1862, attempting to enter Charleston.
More history.
[from Carlisle Patriot - Saturday 30 December 1854]: [from Carlisle Journal - Tuesday 24 June 1862]: Dumfries and Galloway steamers.
Wooden paddle steamer Countess of Galloway, built
Wood & Mills, Bowling, Clyde, 1835, 146 tons burthen, 119.2 x 23.3 x 11.1ft, two 45hp engines,
owned Galloway Navigation Co, Wigtown.
More history
[from Liverpool Standard and General Commercial Advertiser - Friday 26 June 1835]: [from Liverpool Albion - Monday 11 January 1836]: [from Liverpool Albion - Monday 20 February 1843]: [from Shipping and Mercantile Gazette - Monday 28 June 1847]: Iron paddle steamer Countess of Galloway, built
Tod, M'Gregor, Glasgow, 1847, 451grt, 316nrt, 168.6 x 25.25 x 14.5 ft, two 106hp engines,
owned Galloway Steam Navigation Co. ON 1702. Broken up 1880.
More history.
Image
of Countess of Galloway, by William MacMurray.
Port of Ulverston. Arrivals. ..(steamer) Express Bennett Fleetwood
ballast [later dates: passengers]; (steamer) Windermere Lamb Liverpool
Passengers.
We are glad to learn, from our Ulverston correspondent, that there is now
a cheap, pleasant, and expeditious transit across Morecambe Bay, and
that the communication is daily and regular between Bardsea and
Fleetwood. The new piers at Bardsea, erected by Sir H. Fleetwood &
Co., along with other facilities provided by this spirited company,
are such as to induce an amazing number of passengers to avail
themselves of the opportunity thus afforded of passing across the Bay
and afterwards of taking their route by railway to different parts of the
kingdom.
"THE EXPRESS," Lieutenant EDWD. ROBINSON, R,N., plies between
FLEETWOOD and BARDSEA, near ULVERSTON in connexion with the
Railway, as undermentioned, weather permitting the landing at Bardsea.
... [tide not serving some days]
Steamers. The steam packet Windermere is announced to ply between
Liverpool and Bardsea during this summer; and we see by the bills
posted in our good little town that the Express, from Fleetwood,
intends to ply between that place and Bardsea during the summer, which
will be a great advantage to tourists.
To ULVERSTON and the LAKES DISTRICT. The fine Steamer EXPRESS plies
daily from PORT FLEETWOOD, at the undermentioned hours. ...
Fleetwood Regatta. ... The whole of the esplanade from the Wharf to
beyond the North Euston Hotel, was crowded with spectators and the
various boats on the river, the steamers of the Preston and Wyre
Railway Company, the Prince of Wales, the James Dennistoun, the
Express, and the Nile, as well as Her Majesty's surveying steam ship
the Lucifer, were thronged with ladies and gentlemen, who appeared
to take the greatest interest in the race.
The Fine Steamer, EXPRESS, will make an Excursion, in the
Afternoon, from Fleetwood to SUNDERLAND and GLASSON DOCK, leaving
Fleetwood at One o'clock, and returning back before Four. Fare for the
out, One Shilling. Fleetwood, 29th July 1844
WHITSUNTIDE HOLIDAYS. PLEASURE EXCURSION TO FURNESS ABBEY, PIEL
CASTLE, &c; THE First-class Steamer, "NILE," 70 tons burthen, 50 horse
power, will leave Fleetwood on Sunday, the 4th, Monday, the 5th; and
Tuesday, the 6th of June next, immediately after the arrival of the
first Morning Trains from Preston, on Pleasure Trips to Piel Harbour,
where she will remain full six hours, returning in time for Special
Trains to Preston the same evening. Fare there and back, 3s.
Passengers can be booked from Maudland Station, Preston, for the trip,
there and back for 5s. Passengers may either be put on shore on Piel
Island, under the walls of the Castle; or they can be landed on the
Main, ample time being allowed to visit Furness Abbey, &c. Parties may
return on the same day, or any subsequent trip, with the same ticket,
thus giving them an opportunity of taking an Excursion into the Lake
District. Refreshments provided on board, on moderate terms; and a
Band will be engaged on Monday and Tuesday. Railway Office, Fleetwood,
May 24th, 1843.
NILE STEAMER. - On Saturday last, the steamer, Nile, which was
announced to make a trip, on Sunday, to Lytham, Blackpool,
and Fleetwood, came up the Ribble, from Fleetwood, but in consequence
of the very low tides of last week,- retarded by the easterly
winds, she could not be brought nearer Preston than the "Chain."
Owing to this circumstance, many persons who anticipated the
pleasure of a sail were disappointed, not being able to reach the
packet before her departure. About 120 arrived in time, and, we
learn, they returned in the evening highly gratified with the
excursion, which is likely to become a favourite one with our townsmen.
We perceive the Nile is advertised to repeat the trip,
tomorrow, and we believe there is no probability of a similar
disaster, the tide being one of the highest springs. The Nile is, we
understand, intended solely for pleasure excursions during the summer,
and we trust the speculation will repay the spirited owner. She is a
remarkably fine vessel, and is highly spoken of by such as have had the
pleasure of a voyage in her, as a very fast and steady boat.
SALE. At the Crown Hotel, Fleetwood, The Steamer Nile, 67 tons register, 50 horse power,
with all her masts, sails, boats, guns, cabin furniture, stores, &c,
By order of the Mortgagees. On Friday, the 11th January next, at one o'clock,
at the Broker's sale-room. Derby-buildings, Fenwick-street, The Wood Paddle Steamer
NILE; 67 tons N.M., 50 horse power. Length 106 feet 3-10ths, breadth 14 feet 7-10ths.
depth 7 feet 6-10ths. Built Blackwall, in 1837, fitted with two side
lever engines and flue boilers; diameter of cylinder 30 inches, length of
stroke 3 feet, draft of water 3.5 feet, consumption of coal six cwt. per hour.
For further particulars apply to TONGE and Co. Brokers.
Back to index
For SALE, by PRIVATE CONTRACT, Well worthy of the attention of Steam
Proprietors, The fine river-built Steamer ECLIPSE, (Formerly
employed between London and Dartmouth;) Has two of Bolton and Watt's
engines of thirty-five horse power each; now lying at Hawarden, near
Chester, where she is receiving a thorough repair of engines, new
boilers, &c. &c. by Mr. John Rigby, and may be inspected there until
Tuesday next, the 20th instant, when she will be removed into the
Clarence Dock, Liverpool, where she will remain until the 30th
instant, and if not sold on or before that day she will be placed on a
station forthwith.
DIMENSIONS:
Length between the perpendiculars 125 feet.
Ditto of keel 110 feet.
Extreme breadth 19 feet.
Draft of water in ballast, about 5.5 feet.
Loaded 7 feet.
Builders' measurement 211 tons.
New ditto 128 tons
For further particulars apply to JOHN RIGBY, Esq., Hawarden, or WILLIAM
PEMBERTON, 52, Harrington-street.
CHEAP PLEASURE TRIP TO THE ISLE OF MAN. In consequence of the desire
expressed by many Lancashire Families, for a trip to the Isle of Man
during the Whitsuntide Holidays, the North Lancashire Steam Navigation
Company will sail their superior and favourite Steamer,
"ECLIPSE," J. R. Bell, commander, from Fleetwood, on Monday morning,
the 5th June, at ten o'clock, for Douglas, The "Eclipse" will leave
Douglas on Tuesday, the sixth of June, at Twelve o'clock at Noon
precisely, on her return to Fleetwood.
The superior Steamer ECLIPSE, late of London, J. R. Bell,
commander; will ply regularly between LIVERPOOL and FLEETWOOD, with
Goods and Passengers, calling at BLACKPOOL to land and receive
Passengers (weather permitting) as under: ...
To SHIPBREAKERS and OTHERS. On Wednesday next, the 17th instant, at two o'clock,
at D. Tonge's office, 7, Castle-street, The well-known Steamer ECLIPSE;
As she now lies on the beach at Tranmere with all her equipments; 108 tons per register;
engines 80-horse power, by Bolton and Watt; built at Blackwall, in length
123 feet, breadth 16 feet. For inventory and further particulars, Apply to
Mr Roberts, Fleetwood Steam packet Office, Water-street or to D Tonge, broker.
Back to index
REDUCED RATES OF FREIGHT FROM LIVERPOOL TO PRESTON, KIRKHAM, ULTON,
&c., via FLEETWOOD. THE undersigned beg to inform the Public in general, they
have Vessels constantly plying between Liverpool and Fleetwood, which
bring Goods for Preston, Kirkham, Poulton, Blackpool, Preesal,
Stalmine, Garstang, &c. &c.. STEPHEN BURRIDGE, Jun., Steam Packet
Office, Fleetwood. J.F. HAYWARD, 7, Goree Piazzas, Liverpool.
The "SCOTIA"
Steamer, Robert Fairburn, Master, sails from Fleetwood for Belfast every Wednesday
and Saturday Evenings; and on and after 31st May instant, the MONA'S ISLE
Steamer will leave Fleetwood every Tuesday, at 1 p.m., for Douglas, Isle of
Man, with Goods and Passengers. STEPHEN BURRIDGE, Jun., Agent.
Parties sending Goods to any of the above places, will find the
above routes cheaper and more expeditious than any other. Fleetwood,
May 12, 1842.
FLEETWOOD AND BELFAST, CALLING (WEATHER PERMITTING) AT RAMSEY, Isle of
Man. THE ST. GEORGE COMPANY'S STEAMER, SCOTIA, ROBERT FAIRBAIRN,
COMMANDER, WILL ply regularly between the above Ports as follows, during
the month of June,...
LOSS OF THE STEAMER SCOTlA. Intelligence has been received of a terrible
hurricane off the African coast between Bona and Tunis, which
continued from the 11th to the 16th. Several vessels were damaged, and
the British steamer Scotia, Capt. Pereira, 120 horse-power, totally
lost, officers and crew saved. The Scotia plied between Malta and
Tunis.
LOSS OF A STEAMER. News had reached Malta of the loss of the Anglo-Maltese
steamer Scotia at Stora. A French ship ran foul of her. She was laden
with barley, of which sixty quarters had been saved, as had eighteen
out of twenty barrels of oil. No lives were lost, and a great portion
of the wreck will be saved. The boat was fully insured; not so her cargo. She
was the first steamer that ever belonged to a Maltese owner, and was a
strong-built substantial vessel. In the same gale the Maltese brig
Margarita and two French vessels were lost.
Loss or the Steamer Scotia. Respecting the loss of this vessel, the
Malta Times of Jan. 25 contains the following: On the morning of the
15th, the Scotia was observed lying in the Bay of Stora, much deeper
in the water than customary, consequently, as there was no one on
board, Capt. Williams, of the schooner Rhoda, lying at anchor close
by, lowered his boat, and went on board, accompanied by a portion of
his crew, when to his surprise, he found that the water had risen as
to cover the machinery, and that it was fast increasing, which he
imagined must have been occasioned by a material damage from a French
brig, which parted from her anchors and went foul of her on the night
of the 13th inst. Captain Williams did not leave the Scotia until the
arrival of Captain Pereira, which took place shortly, when a
consultation was held as to the expediency of running her on shore, in
order, if possible, to save a wreck of the ill-fated ship, which was
done by the sole exertions of the Rhoda's crew, and three or four of the
Scotia's men. She was speedily run on the sandy beach, and immediately
parted asunder. On the following day, a large portion of her wood work
was sold by auction on the spot. The boilers and part of her engines
were observed peering over the troubled waves, and will no doubt
ultimately be recovered.
[Bay of Stora seems to be west of Skikda, in Algeria, the port of Constantine;
Bona, now called Annaba, is east of Skikda]
Back to index
Back to index
CHEAP TRIP TO THE ISLE OF MAN AND DUBLIN, Preston to Dublin and back for 6s.
THE splendid and powerful Steam Ship "Isabella Napier."
500 tons burthen, 350 horse power, will leave FLEETWOOD for DUBLIN, calling
at Douglas, Isle of Man.
Back to index
COLLISION & LOSS OF LIFE AT SEA. We have this week the painful
duty to record the particulars of a catastrophe connected with the
loss of life, on board the royal mail steam-ship, Prince of Wales,
Captain M'Neilage, of the port of Fleetwood, on the morning of
Saturday last, near the Point of Ayr Lighthouse, whilst on her
homeward voyage from Belfast.
The Prince of Wales left Belfast,
on Friday evening about seven o'clock, and proceeded safely as far as
the Point of Ayr, and had rounded the Lighthouse about half a mile,
when she was struck, on the larboard bow, by the sloop, Jane and
Jenny, [some papers quote Jane & Jessey/Jessy/Jessie, or Jane & Agnes] of Liverpool, which was
running before the wind at a great rate.
The wind, at the time, was blowing a complete hurricane, and the
night was very dark; and being the time to change the watch, the
captain, mate, and crew, were all on deck. Immediately the
steamer was struck with such tremendous force, she began to fill in
her forward compartment, and the engines were reversed to run her
ashore. The water rushing with such a force into the vessel, and
the circumstance of striking the shore, broke down the first
bulkhead, and rapidly filled the engine room; the engineers,
Messrs. Thompson and Carmichael, however, courageously stood to
their post, although up to their armpits in water, throwing coal
into the furnaces, as it was of importance that the steam should be
kept up while practicable, for the purpose of backing the vessel as
high on the beach as possible, as the tide rose. The crew,
meanwhile, were rendering all possible assistance in landing the
passengers and we cannot here refrain from noting the heroic
exertions of Mr. J. Dale, the chief mate, who, at the imminent
peril of his life, divested himself of his clothing, and, with
very great difficulty, swam ashore with a rope, by means of which
all were saved. The life-boat was then launched, and the second
mate, and a portion of the crew, endeavoured to land some of the
passengers; but the surf was raging so furiously, that she filled and
upset, and the persons in her were with great difficulty rescued from
a watery grave, by the zealous and praiseworthy exertions of Mr. Dale
and others of the crew in the boat. The boat was afterwards hauled
ashore, and filled with stones and gravel, to make it as heavy as
possible, and a hawser was attached to it from the vessel, upon
which a basket, belonging to one of the passengers; was so contrived,
as, by means of lines, to travel between the vessel and the shore;
by which means the passengers were safely conveyed to the beach.
At the time of the accident, three men, who were cattle dealers,
were sleeping in the fore cabin, near where the vessel was struck,
and the water came into her with such force, that they were unable to
make their escape and were drowned. The body of one was washed into
the interior of the vessel, and was interred on Sunday last; the
other two have not yet been found. There were on board about
ninety-five head of cattle, which where thrown overboard when the
vessel neared the shore, five of them were lost, but the others all
regained the land in safety.
Information was afterwards conveyed
to Douglas, for the Fleetwood steamer, Fenella, to repair to the
scene of the disaster, to render such assistance as she was able,
whence she brought forward the passengers to Fleetwood, on Sunday
evening, about six o'clock, and returned again, with such men and
materials as could be collected, suitable to endeavour to rescue the
unfortunate vessel from her perilous position. Mr, J. Gibson, of the
firm of Gibson and Butcher, shipwrights, accompanied the
Fenella, with a number of his men, and several of the
steam-packet porters; and, on arrival at the scene of the disaster,
about half-past five on Monday morning, they immediately commenced
taking such steps as were deemed best for covering the hole which
had been caused by the collision, and which was found to be ten feet
deep by about twelve feet wide. At high water, nearly the whole of
the vessel was immersed, consequently, they were unable to work at
the damaged part, which was furthermost in the water; except about two
hours at low water. Two-inch planks were however prepared,
and in about four tides were secured by screws to the vessel's sides; and
on Wednesday they had the gratification to find their efforts crowned with
success, for the vessel was floated off the beach, steam was got up, and
she was conveyed into Ramsay[sic, Ramsey] Harbour, where she is now lying for the
purpose of being made more secure, when she will be conveyed to
Glasgow, to undergo a thorough repair. The sloop went ashore
directly after the collision, greatly damaged, but the crew were all
saved. She was laden with flour, and bound [from Liverpool] for Westport. The cargo
was taken out of her, and she has received some temporary repairs
and towed into Ramsay on Wednesday evening. [said to be captain, mate and 2 youths -
who were saved by floating shore on the sloop's mast]
The two unfortunate passengers on the Prince
of Wales, whose bodies have not been found, are supposed to have
been washed through the hole in the vessel's side; several large
bales of lace, and other goods, were washed out and lost, and many of
the sailors lost all their clothes, except such as they chanced to
have on at the time of the occurrence. The mate, through whose
daring exertions such efficient aid was rendered to save life, has
lost all he possessed, and was for several hours almost in a state
of nudity, at the time when he left the vessel to swim ashore with the
rope. We have been unable to ascertain correctly the names of the
three who were drowned; and therefore refrain from giving any upon
conjecture.
PRINCE OF WALES STEAM SHIP. - This vessel which was run into near the
Point of Ayr, a few months ago, made her appearance again at
Fleetwood on Sunday last, and is again on her station between that
place and Belfast, having undergone a thorough repair in both hull and
machinery. The vessel being a great favourite at Fleetwood, her
arrival was hailed with demonstrations of great joy.
Image of Prince of Wales: 
THE WRECK OF THE ROSEBRAE. The Thor arrived at Queenstown [Cobh] yesterday.
She took off the captain and crew of the Rosebrae (barque), Galveston
to Liverpool, which was struck by an iceberg, and went down head foremost
on the 20th April, immediately after the crew were rescued. The Rose
Brae was an iron ship, and belonged to Mr. W. H. Jones, of Messrs. W.
H. and G. Jones, and had cargo 1,607 bales of cotton. [Location 44N 48W; master Wilcox]
NEW IRON STEAM-SHIP. We have had the pleasure of inspecting a new
steam-vessel, built and fitted up with engines, &c. by our
enterprizing fellow citizens, Messrs. Todd and M'Gregor. She is called
the Princess Alice - forming another member of the celebrated Royal
family of steamers built by the same firm, namely, the Royal
Sovereign, Royal George, Princess Royal, Prince of Wales. She is 170
feet in length, and divided into five water-tight compartments; her
engines are of 100 horse-power each; and she can put up, and dine
comfortably, 50 passengers. In mould she is quite a model; and her
cabins are fitted up with great elegance and taste. Every preparation
has been made for the comfort of passengers. She is intended to ply
between Fleetwood and Belfast, in conjunction with the Prince of
Wales, at present on that station, and is to be commanded by Captain
Wilson, a gentleman of nautical skill and experience. Messrs. Tod and
M'Gregor have great credit by this fine vessel; and we pay them this
compliment the more willingly, on account of their having been the
first engineers who introduced iron steam-vessels in deep sea
navigation. The Princess Alice was tried yesterday, and made 13
knots an hour, with ease. She leaves our harbour on Tuesday, for
Fleetwood calling at Ardrossan, we believe, for the Earl and Countess
of Eglinton.- Glasgow Citizen, of Saturday, [The Princess Alice
arrived at Fleetwood on Wednesday morning last, and will make her
first trip to Belfast this evening.-Ed. P. C.]
More
details with image. Wrecked December
4 1849 on Rathlin Island.
The Fleetwood Steamers. - We understand that these beautiful iron
steamers "Her Majesty," and "Royal Consort," the launch of which
we announced a few weeks since, have now been completed, and will be
placed on the Ardrossan and Fleetwood station. They realise, we
learn, all the expectations that have been formed of them. On
Monday least the "Royal Consort" made a short trial trip, and when
her full steam was up, she performed the distance between the Cloch
and Greenock, being six miles, in 22 minutes 35 seconds. The twin
steamers reflect no small credit on the engineering skill of Messrs.
Tod and M'Gregor, the builders.
Back to index
Launch of the New Iron Steamer. Our readers will notice advertisement that
this vessel will be launched from the Halifax ship-yard, on Tuesday next.
It being the first iron vessel built at this port, no doubt thousands
will be attracted thither. We have seen a proof of an excellent representation
of her as she appears on the stocks, drawn by Mr. J. Hare and beautifully engraved on
wood by Mr. Gooding. Her dimensions are as follows; length, 162 ft.;
beam, 22 ft. 3 in.; depth of hold, 10 ft. 2 in.; tonnage, 346 48-99ths.
From the sharpness of her build, and the beauty of her model, it is
expected that she will prove a remarkably fast boat; indeed the builders
anticipate that she will even outstrip the far-famed Orwell. She is to be
named the Orion.
LONDON AND IPSWICH "ORION" STEAM NAVIGATION COMPANY. THAT Splendid Vessel, the orion, (excelling
in speed the Fastest Vessel hitherto on this Station), CAPTAIN JOHN
WHITE. COMMANDER, Will leave Mr. SEEKAMP'S QUAY, IPSWICH, every WEDNESDAY &
FRIDAY MORNINGS, AT 9 O'CLOCK, With Passengers and Goods, for the OLD
SWAN PIER WHARF, UPPER SIDE LONDON BRIDGE; returning from thence to
Ipswich, every MONDAY & THURSDAY MORNINGS, AT 8 O'CLOCK,..
TO THE ISLE OF MAN, DAILY. THE FIRST-CLASS fast-sailing IRON STEAMER,
"ORION," will ply on and after Monday, 23rd June, between FLEETWOOD
and the ISLE OF MAN, as FROM FLEETWOOD TO DOUGLAS EVERY MONDAY,
WEDNESDAY, THURSDAY, AND SATURDAY, at 2 30 p.m. FROM FLEETWOOD TO
RAMSEY EVERY TUESDAY AND FRIDAY, at 2 p.m.. ...
[Repairs winter 1845/6 then restart June 1846; until April 1847]
Back to index
Launch of the Fenella, Iron Steamer, at Liverpool, Yesterday, about
half-past ten o'clock, a beautiful iron steamer, called the Fenella
(the cognomen of the interesting dumb girl, characterised in Sir
Walter Scott's novel of "Peveril of the Peak,") was launched from the
building yard of Messrs. Thomas Vernon and Son, south shore. The day
was unpropitious for the occasion, as the rain fell fast, but it was
cheerfully borne, from the impression of the good which the downfall
would effect on the crops. The Fenella was constructed from a model by
our townsman, Mr. John Grantham, and is truly a fine specimen of naval
architecture, of very fine lines, and light floatation, her depth
being comparatively small in proportion to her beam. She was built for
Messrs. Kemp and Laidley, the enterprising promoters of the trade and
general prosperity of the new, and now thriving, town of Fleetwood;
and she is intended to run, chiefly with passengers, between that port
and the Isle of Man. Her dimensions are: keel 150 feet; beam (within
paddle-boxes) 20 feet, and over the sponsons 24 feet; depth of hold
8.5 feet, and burden (old measurement) about 304 tons. She has a fine
figure-head of "Fenella," as described by the great novelist, and a
carved stern and quarter galleries. She is clencher-built throughout,
and has finely moulded topsides. There were present at the launch a
considerable party, notwithstanding the state of the weather, of
gentlemen, principally nautical, and ladies, as well as a very large
concourse of the men employed in the yard. The launch was extremely
gratifying, and the vessel was afterwards hauled to the south quay of
the yard, where she will be completed.
...[service of Orion Fleetwood - Douglas alternate days]..
As soon as the new Iron Steamer "FENELLA," building specially for
the FLEETWOOD and DOUGLAS STATION, and now nearly ready, is
completed, a Daily Communication will be kept up, of which due notice
will be given. For further particulars apply to Mr. CLARKE, Douglas;
or to KEMP and Co., Fleetwood. June 4th, 1846.
The fast sailing steamers Orion or Fenella leave Fleetwood every Tuesday, Thursday
and Saturday at noon, ...
STEAM COMMUNICATION. From Ulverston to Fleetwood, Blackpool, Lytham,
Preston, Manchester, Liverpool, &c, via Bardsea. ... The fast-sailing
Iron Steamers "Fenella " or "Orion," (120 Horse Power,) sails
regularly, Three Times Weekly, between Fleetwood and Liverpool, and
Once Weekly between Ulverston and Liverpool. ...
For DOUGLAS, ISLE OF MAN. The STEAMER FENELLA, J.J. Wheeler, Commander, leaves
Fleetwood every Tuesday, Thursday at noon, and every Saturday at Two
p.m., and returns from Douglas every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday
mornings at half-past eight.
NEW ROUTE TO ULVERSTON AND THE LAKES, via BARDSEA. NOTICE. On and
after Monday, the 18th June next, the splendid and fast-sailing new
iron Steamer, "FENELLA," is intended to sail regularly from FLEETWOOD
to BARDSEA, Every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Saturday; and From
BARDSEA TO FLEETWOOD Every Monday, Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday. For
hours of sailing, and all particulars, see small bills; or apply to
KEMP & Co., Fleetwood. The "FENELLA" also sails from Bardsea for
Liverpool every Wednesday, returning from Liverpool every Friday.
FLEETWOOD. FOR SALE or CHARTER, the iron Paddle Steamer FENELLA, 180
tons register, 100-horse power, draught of water, 7 feet 6 inches. Ready
for sea. KEMP and Co., Fleetwood.
The steam boat Fenella, of Fleetwood, belonging to Mr. Kemp, is now being
fitted out for Australia. There are many persons in the town anxious
to go out with her. Fresh masts are being put in her, and her paddle
wheels are taken off. She is intended to trade there.
Back to index
LONDONDERRY AND FLEETWOOD. - On Tuesday last, the splendid steam ship
Londonderry made her first trip from Fleetwood to Londonderry, and
took out a fair cargo, considering the break which has been allowed to
take place in the station, since the loss of the steamer Her Majesty
upon Rathlin Island. Arrangements have been made whereby the
Londonderry, and the new and splendid steamer Thistle, will ply
regularly each week alternately between Fleetwood and Londonderry;
thus securing, by means of first-class steamers, the traffic between
the two ports, which, judging from the short experience of the past,
promises to be of an important character. The placing of the above two
boats upon the station will, for the present at least, render nugatory
the scheme mentioned a few weeks since in the Chronicle of the
establishment of a new Screw Steam Shipping Company at Fleetwood.
Back to index
DISTRESSING FATAL ACCIDENT AT FLEETWOOD. CAPSIZING OF A FERRY-BOAT
CONTAINING TEN PERSONS. On Friday last, one of the most melancholy
accidents, which it has for some time been our province to record,
took place in connexion with one of the small ferryboats plying
between our pier and Knott End, on the east side of the river Wyre.
For the information of distant readers, we may state that the town and
port of Fleetwood is situated upon a low narrow peninsula, bounded on
the S.E. by the river Wyre, and N.W. and N. by Morecambe bay.
Domestic, farm, and garden produce raised or produced in the
neighbourhoods of Flakefleet, Thornton, &c., villages lying to the
S.W. and W. of Fleetwood, meets with a ready sale in the town or
market of the latter place, but, inasmuch as these places do not
produce enough to supply the inhabitants of Fleetwood, large quantities
are every Friday brought from the farming district lying over Wyre.
For many years it has been a pleasant sight on the summer's morn to
see the female passengers and small farmer's wives and daughters,
trudging along the bye-paths, and picturesque lanes, each bearing
their little burden of home produce, in the shape of butter, eggs,
poultry, choice vegetables, and fruit, &c. As these little companies
came nearer to the river Wyre, they were often joined by market goers
arriving from other places, as Eccleston, Hambleton, Preesall,
Stalmine, Pilling, &c, and were the hedge rows vocal, they could tell
many a tale of village gossip detailed by various companies as they
passed along. On arriving at Knott End, the market goers and their
produce were embarked in small boats, which, wafted by a light sail,
or propelled by oars of some sturdy boatman, soon landed them on the
Fleetwood side of the river. The market-house was then soon gained,
the produce speedily sold, and having purchased other articles in the
town, of which they stood in need at home, they re-crossed the ferry,
and in the course of the afternoon each one generally arrived at home.
These weekly market excursions were regarded by all with interest and
pleasure, and our ferry has been for a generation so free from
accidents, that danger in that quarter was seldom feared. In cases
where a large quantity of produce had to be brought to market,
rendering the employment of a cart necessary, it was obliged to
perform a circuitous route by the Shard Ford, making a difference of
from 10 to 16 miles in the journey to be accomplished.
On Friday morning, the 13th instant, a number of the class
of persons described above, crossed the ferry in safety at low water,
and others continued to do so at flood-tide. The morning was cold,
rather windy, with occasional showers of rain. About ten o'clock,
William Fairclough, one of the boatmen, then lying in his boat at
Knott End, on the east side of Wyre, received into his boat the
following persons: Mary Lawrenson, of Stalmine; Mary Orr, daughter of
the above; Mary Parkinson, Hambleton ; Andrew Clarkson, Preesall; Agnes
Robinson, Stalmine; Mrs. Eastham, and infant child 14 weeks old, of
Pilling; Mrs. Kay, Pilling; and Isabella Myerscough, of Preesall.
These persons had with them a variety of articles, butter, eggs,
fruit, poultry, potatoes, &c., all of which was deposited with
themselves in the boat, while the boatman William Fairclough, a
strongly built and powerful man vigorously plied his pair of oars to
reach the Fleetwood side. It was now half-flood tide, and the current
had set in strongly up-stream, and to avoid being carried among the
fishing and other boats anchored to the river, as well as to avoid
drifting against an American ship the Brazils, and a Danish brig the
Prudente, which were moored in the deep water channel ahead of each
other, opposite the ferry stage, the unfortunate boatman pulled up
stream, with the object of rounding the mooring buoy at the bow of the
Brazils, and then floating with the tide to the ferry stage. He was
seen by several persons from the shore taking this course, which was
quite usual, in the state of the tide, with vessels moored as the
Prudente and Brazils were. When passing behind the Brazils, the boat
was hid from sight, but in a few moments was seen attempting to round
the buoy. In another moment, one, nay ten, wild shrieks of agony rose
from the spot where the boat was last seen; the violence of the tide
had driven her against the buoy; she had capsized, and all her hapless
occupants, except the unfortunate boatman, were seen struggling for
life. For an instant one of the oars was seen athwart the chain of the
Brazils and then every vestige disappeared. Scarcely had the wall of
water reached the shore, ere half-a-dozen boats with their owners shot
out from the ferry stage to rescue as many as possible of the
sufferers. Among those who first put off, was Matthew Fairclough,
brother of the deceased boatman. The coolness and unselfishness of
Matthew Fairclough cannot be too much admired on this trying occasion;
although he knew that his brother was among the sufferers, he did not
idly ask and seek for him, but made off to the first he saw struggling
with the waves, and as we shall see, was instrumental in saving two
persons from a watery grave. The force with which the tide was
rushing up the river, and the slight eddy towards the east side,
carried the shrieking mortals rapidly away; but each boat bent on its
noble mission followed wherever traces of a human being were seen,
until, as will appear from the subjoined list, all except the boatman
had been picked up. The excitement on shore and among the shipping was
painfully intense, while loud lamentations were uttered by many of the
market-women who were passing along the front of Queen's Terrace, and
who knew that some of their companions and neighbours were in the
unfortunate boat. Immediately on picking up the sufferers, the
boatmen conveyed them to the side of the river, where every kindness
was shown, and restorative means successfully employed. One incident
in connexion with this event was of the most painfully thrilling
character; in the confusion and struggling which took place, Mrs.
Eastham became separated from her baby, and terribly convulsive were
her struggles to reach the helpless child; at length she was picked up
by Thomas Croft, and her child by William Croft in another boat; and
if it were but possible to paint the heart's deep feelings as well as
the expression of the face, there was a subject worthy the most gifted
pencil, when the sobbing child was restored to its mother's embrace.
The list of boats which put of to the rescue, together with the
persons picked up by each is as follows: William Croft and Thomas
Woods, picked up Isabella Myerscough, and the baby of Mrs. Eastham;
Thomas and John Croft rescued Mrs. Eastham and Mrs. Kay; George
Cowell, James Cowell, James Anyon, picked up Miss Agnes Robinson in a
very exhausted state: Matthew Fairclough, (brother of deceased)
succeeded in rescuing Mary Parkinson and Andrew Clarkson; a boat
belonging to, and lying alongside, the Danish brig Prudente, rescued
Mrs. Mary Orr; whilst a boat belonging to and lying alongside the
Brazils, succeeded in rescuing Mrs. Mary Lawrenson, mother of Mrs.
Orr. Mrs. Lawrenson and Miss Robinson were immediately placed under
the care of Drs. Daniels and Hall, of Fleetwood, whilst others,
having drifted more to the east side of the river, were taken to the
cottages near, and to the Bourne's Arms Inn.
Back to index
THE WHITEHAVEN STEAM NAVIGATION COMPNY'S Line of Steamers will sail as below stated:
COUNTESS OF LONSDALE. From Whitehaven for Liverpool. Thursday the 19th
June, at Midnight. Monday the 23rd at 6 Evening. Thursday the 26th, at 9 Do.
From Liverpool for Whitehaven. Wednesday the 18th 1 Afternoon, Sunday
the 22nd at 7 Morning. Wednesday the 25th at 10 Do.
ST. ANDREW. From Whitehaven for Dumfries.
Thursday the 19th June, at 11 Morning. Monday
the 23d, at 3 Do. Thursday the 26th, at 6 Do. Returns the same Days.
From Whitehaven for Garliestown. Wednesday the 18th at 1/2 past 8 Morning.
Do. the 25th, at 1/2 past 3 Do. Do. the 2nd July, at 8 Evening. Returns same
Days. FOR DOUGLAS AND DUBLIN. The St. Andrew will Sail from Whitehaven
for Dublin, at One o'clock every Friday Morning, and from Dublin for
this Port every Saturday morning's Tide, calling at Douglas, Isle of Man, on her
passage out and home. The time of leaving Dublin may be known at the office
of the Agent, J. R. Pim, 11, Eden Quay. N.B. Both the Countess of
Lonsdale and St. Andrew carry Female Stewards, to wait upon Ladies.
For further information apply to G. DOWSON, 8, Goree Piazza,
Liverpool, or ...
SALE, The Steam-packet SAINT ANDREW, Burthen per register 83 tons, with
an engine of 50-horse power. This vessel is now plying between Whitehaven, Scotland,
and Liverpool; it is in excellent order; has most comfortable accommodation for
passengers; draws little water, and is in every respect a most desirable
steam-packet for any trade suitable to her burthen. Further particulars
may known on application to Fisher and Stewart, Whitehaven, or to WILLIAM
DOWSON, 8. Goree-piazzas.
The St Andrew, (steamer) hence and Gibraltar, at Barcelona.
Friday. Oct 28. ...
Coastwise: Earl of Lonsdale, Marshall, Whitehaven. ....
Countess of Cassillis, Harrison, [81 tons, reg Whitehaven] for Belfast, was brought into this port
by the steamer Earl of Lonsdale, with her ballast shifted and six feet
of water in the hold
Wednesday Oct 26. .. Coastwise. ...Countess of Lonsdale, Richards, Whitehaven.
THE STEAMER EARL OF LONSDALE commenced plying betwixt this port and
the Bay of Luce on Saturday. It is intended to call at Portwilliam,
Stairhaven, and Drummore periodically during the season.
The Whitehaven Steam Navigation Company have within the past week
disposed of their strong and faithfully-built steamer, the Earl of
Lonsdale. We understand the Earl is intended to ply between ports in
the Mediterranean, and that she will forthwith leave for the scene of
her future labours.
Back to index
LAUNCH OF AN IRON STEAM-SHIP. - On Saturday a splendid iron
steam-ship, built by Messrs. Vernon for the Whitehaven Steam
Navigation Company, was launched from their building yard,
Barrack-street. She is a fine built vessel, of 450 tons burthen and
200 horse-power, and in model is a perfect beauty, having a
particularly fine entrance and a clear run aft. Her engines are the
first pair which have yet been made on the direct action system for
actual service. Her joints are all over-lapt and double rivetted, and
are considered best calculated for heavy service. Her figure-head is a
beautiful carving of her Majesty the Queen, and is an exceedingly
correct representation of the royal personage. From the figure there
is a scroll running down to the hawse-holes. The vessel has splendidly
carved quarter galleries and an elegantly-decorated square stern. Her
cabins are most superb, and will be fitted-up with papier maché, the
pictorial portion being by Messrs. Jennins and Betterage, of
Birmingham and London, and the ornamental by our townsman, Mr. Keys,
of Bold-street. The cabins are calculated to accommodate fifty
passengers, and her berths are of the first order. She is built with
Kennedy and Vernon's patent iron, for sides, frames, and deck-beams,
which combine great strength with small weight. She is, we suppose,
nearly double the size of the Whitehaven craft, and, no doubt, when
she arrives in that port will create no little surprise. Her commander
is Captain Thompson, late of the steamer Earl of Lonsdale. At the hour
appointed for the launch, two o clock, a numerous assemblage had
congregated in the building-yard to witness the interesting spectacle.
Amongst the spectators were many of the fair sex and some of the
principal commercial men of Liverpool. An Indian prince, named Mohan
Lal, from the neighbourhood of Afghanistan, was introduced by the
Mayor to the company present. The Indian was exceedingly interested
and inquisitive about the mode of launching, which was fully explained
to him by Mr. John Vernon, one of the firm. Precisely at ten minutes
after two the words "down dagger" were given, and, the bottle being
broken by Miss Dowson, the fair daughter of the agent of the company
in this port, the gallant ship, as if "a thing of life", obeyed the
command and glided gracefully from her cradle into the watery element,
amid the cheers and plaudits of the assembled multitude who had met to
witness the "Ocean Queen" wedded to the waves. We understand that the
vessel has been built under the immediate inspection of Mr. Grantham,
author of "Iron as a material for Ship-building", who is the
mechanical consulting engineer for the company.
WHITEHAVEN STEAM NAVIGATION COMPANY'S STEAMERS. QUEEN. S V. Thompson,
Commander, and EARL OF LONSDALE, James Kennedy. Commander, will,
during March, perform the following Voyages between Whitehaven and
Liverpool, with or without Pilot,...
The sale of the steamer Whitehaven was announced by us a few weeks
ago; and Monday last, at a special meeting of the shareholders of the
company [Whitehaven Steam Navigation], it was unanimously resolved to
offer for sale the steamer Queen also. Since the sale of the
Whitehaven, the Queen has been regularly trading between this port and
Liverpool, Belfast, and Dublin. Yet, withal, it would appear that the
vessel does not promise to be a paying concern. Assuredly, it is not
the good price which the company obtained for the Whitehaven that
induced them to offer for sale her sister vessel.
FRIGHTFUL COLLISION IN THE CHANNEL. REPORTED LOSS OF LIFE. A shocking
occurrence took place last evening near the Queen's Channel Bar,
resulting in the almost complete wreck of the Whitehaven steamer
Queen, together with the death one of her crew, and, it is also feared,
the loss of some of the passengers.
It appears that the Queen left the
Clarence Dock with the afternoon tide for Whitehaven, having on board
an ordinary cargo and between 50 and 60 passengers, including several
women and children [Captain John Metcalf]. She continued her voyage in safety until she
reached the Queen's Channel Bar about 20 minutes past six, when the
officers in charge observed a large ship approaching in tow of a tug.
This vessel proved to be the Hannibal, bound from this port for
Calcutta, which left the Mersey, a few days since in charge of the
steamtug Retriever, but in consequence of the severity of the weather
had been compelled to return, after reaching almost as far as
Holyhead. Both vessels were burning their signal lights at the time,
but, as they were in the act of crossing the bar, they came into
collision with a frightful crash. The port paddle-box of the steamer
was smashed to atoms, and the starboard paddle was also injured. The
bows of the ship extended almost across the steamer's deck, and, with
the exception of the funnel, the whole of the gear of the Queen was
destroyed, the deck having the appearance of a complete wreck. As might
be imagined, the consternation was terrible, the panic being
increased by the fearful screams of the women and children who expected every
moment that the steamer would founder, but fortunately the Retriever
succeeded in bringing her up to the landing-stage, and disembarking
the injured and affrighted passengers. Fears, however, are
entertained that in the anxiety to escape from the steamer, some of the
passengers have perished. On reaching the stage, one of the crew of
the steamer, who was frightfully crushed, died [Andrew Jessop].
Back to index
Chairman said a letter had been received from the Neath Abbey Company,
stating that the steam dredge would be ready in six weeks. After some
conversation the new mud-boats were ordered to be used for taking out
the mud from the North Harbour, the steam-tug to be employed towing
them out. The Chairman said there was a hopper that wanted repairing.
New Steam Dredge for Whitehaven. The new iron steam dredge for cleaning out
and deepening the harbour, arrived at Whitehaven on Monday afternoon last, in
tow by the Liverpool steam tug, Defiance. She has been built at Neath,
is a fine looking vessel, being ninety feet long, has thirty-three large iron
buckets, attached, is worked by an engine of sixteen horse power, and is
expected, when in good working order, to lift about one hundred tons. Her first
work will be to deepen the north harbour eight feet, which is to be commenced
with forthwith, and which, when done, will afford a great deal of additional
berths for shipping.
Back to index
THE NEW IRON STEAMER WHITEHAVEN. This splendid ship, which was built
for the Whitehaven Steam Navigation Company, to run to Whitehaven in
conjunction with the Queen, was launched from the building-yard of
Thos. Vernon and Company, in the month of December last, made a short
trial trip on Wednesday last down the North Channel and back. Several
nautical and scientific gentlemen interested in her success were on
board. The boat trip was most agreeable, and the speed attained, under
some adverse circumstances, was such that there can be no doubt that
she will take her place among the fastest and most beautiful of our
mercantile fleet as she in reality does amongst the most beautiful in
appearance. She was modelled by Mr. Grantham, C.E., and built by
Messrs. Vernon and Co. The engines, on the oscillating principle, were
constructed by the Butterly Company, Derbyshire, and the whole vessel,
whether in hull, machinery, fittings, and decorations, reflects the
highest credit upon the respective artists. She is neatly rigged as a
three masted schooner, and her dimensions are as follow: Length of
keel, 170 feet; over all, 200 feet; breadth of beam, 25 feet ; depth
of hold, 13 feet; measurement, (old), 520 tons; engines, with tubular
boilers, 280 horsepower.
The cabins are richly and elaborately
adorned, and finished in the Flemish style of decoration; and the
chasteness of the designs, as well as the finish, reflect the highest
credit upon Mr. White, of Duke-street, by whom they were executed. The
companion, or entrance to the cabins, is roomy, and chastely decorated
in the style which is adopted in the cabins themselves. It is lighted
at either end by a stained glass window, enriched. On one of these
windows is a female figure of Commerce, and on the other a similar
figurative representation of Peace. The square pillars terminating the
balustrades of the stair are rich carvings from the solid oak. We have
seen the splendour of many cabins in this port, but anything to equal
the rich and luxuriant decorations of the Whitehaven we have never
beheld. The ground work of the walls - or, as they are technically
termed, the bulkheads, is veneered work in mahogany and rosewood, the
upper paneling being enriched by beautiful enamelled paintings on
papier maché, enclosed within boldly projecting golden
framework, supported by pilasters which are surrounded with trusses,
carved in the first style of art. The doors to the respective private
cabins are perforated panels, backed by silk drapery. The ceiling is
also finely carved in cones, graining, &c., and the cornices are
carved and gilded. This gorgeous apartment is lighted by two large and
elegant skylights, six stern windows, and four side ports. The
skylights are fitted up with beautiful stained glass, containing
emblazoned coats of arms of the various towns and ports which the
vessel will visit in her course; emblematical and appropriate female
figures representing Britannia, Caledonia, Hibernia, and Columbia;
heads of celebrated navigators, &c. The paintings on the panels
comprise two large paintings: The parting of Hector and Andromache at
the Gates of Troy, from Homer's Illiad; The hostile meeting between
the Romans and Sabines, between the Capitoline and the Quirinal Hills,
from Gibbon's Rome; both subjects as well as others chosen by the
captain of the ship; in addition to these there is a view of
Liverpool, by Barrow, and various scenes from the lake district of
Cumberland. The furniture, which is of massive mahogany, is unique,
and in perfect harmony with the style of the decorations.
The
Whitehaven made but a short trip on Wednesday, round the Formby Light
Ship and back, as she had to proceed to Whitehaven next morning. The
engines made about twenty strokes per minute, but when all the
arrangements are completed they will make about twenty-two, which will
produce a great speed. As it was, she rapidly passed several steamers,
which are considered to be fast goers. The vessel is commanded by
Capt Thompson, formerly of the Queen, belonging to the same company, a
gentleman of long experience on that particular coast. She has
already made an excellent journey to Whitehaven and back. We wish her
every success.
GREAT REDUCTION FARES BY THE WHITEHAVEN STEAM NAVIGATION COMPANY.
Steam Communication from Whitehaven to Liverpool and Belfast. THE Fares
by the Whitehaven Steam Navigation Company's Steamers, WHITEHAVEN, (New
Ship), S. V. Thompson, Commander, which splendid Steamer will shortly
be placed on the Station, QUEEN, James Kennedy, Commander, and EARL of
LONSDALE, John Richards, Commander, are greatly reduced, being now only:
Between Whitehaven and Liverpool, Cabin, 8s, Fore Ditto, 3s 6d. Between
Whitehaven and Belfast, Cabin, 8s, Fore Ditto, 3s. Children under Fourteen
Years of Age to pay Half Fare. ... Three voyages weekly to Liverpool, one to Belfast.
For SALE by Private Treaty, The first class iron paddle-wheel Steamer
WHITEHAVEN. Dimensions:- Length 181 feet, breadth 24 feet, depth 13
feet 6 inches; 84 tons register; has accommodation for about forty
cabin and 200 steerage passengers, and is well adapted for carrying
live stock and merchandise; having been built for the cattle and
coasting trade. This vessel has just undergone a thorough overhaul by
Messrs. Fawcett, Preston and Co. Liverpool, at great expense, and is in
every respect in find-rate order. Apply to Robert Henderson, Belfast,
Fisher & Steward, Whitehaven, or WM. DOWSON and SON, 39,
Oldhall-street, Liverpool. [also for sale January 1860]
The steamer Whitehaven was sold in Liverpool on Thursday, and will not
again ply between Whitehaven and Liverpool.
TRIAL TRIP OF THE STEAMER WHITEHAVEN. Yesterday, the magnificent iron
paddle wheel steamship, Whitehaven, went on her trial trip, and the
most sanguine expectations of her owner, Mr. James Jack, were then
realised. It would seem that Mr. James Jack, of the Victoria Engine
Works, Sandon Lock, purchased this splendid vessel at auction; and,
from her appearance, inferred that he could make her one of the very
best steamers afloat. She was brought to Liverpool, and lengthened 45
feet - 15 feet abaft, and 30 feet before the paddle boxes, her length
being now 225 feet, beam 25 feet 4 inches, and depth 15 feet. She has
spacious 'tween decks 7 feet 9 inches in height; her gross register
tonnage is 687 tons, and she is estimated to carry 800 head of cattle,
for which her accommodation is of very superior nature. The main deck
has been raised 18 inches, her draught of water lightened 14.5 inches,
and she is fitted with very powerful engines. Her boilers are
increased in size, so that she may steam more fully, and thus her engines
are possessed of an effective power of 800 horses, with a pressure of
20 lbs. All the upper works have been renewed, and the 'tween decks
and ceilings thoroughly renovated. Indeed, so thoroughly is she
altered, that we scarcely knew her again yesterday. The saloon was
always a pretty specimen of the decorator's art, but it has now
transcended its former excellence. In a word, it is a gem of art, and
reflects infinite credit upon the artist. The Whitehaven went upon her
trial trip yesterday, and had on board a large party of gentlemen from
Liverpool, Manchester, and various towns in Ireland. She glided away
from the Great Landing stage in a majestic style shortly before twelve
o'clock, having been detained nearly two hours by the dense fog which
overspread the river. She steamed down the channel cautiously, but
when abreast the Rock Lighthouse, although the dense fog remained
behind, seaward it was as clear as one could desire. The noble vessel
soon gained way, and instead of a speed of about nine knots hour,
which was her rate previous to lengthening, she attained eleven
knots against the tide. At the Bell-buoy, the Whitehaven was timed,
and we found that she ran the measured mile in 4 minutes 7 seconds; on
the return she accomplished the feat in 4 minutes 4 seconds; and in
the third run it was exceedingly gratifying to find that the distance
had been run in precisely 4 minutes, with the tide against her. The
pressure was 15 lbs., and the number of revolutions 23. ...
Back to index
The keel of the new steam tug, intended for our harbour, has been
laid down in the building yard of Messrs. Lumley, Kennedy and Co., and
will be proceeded with rapidly as circumstances will permit.
The new steam tug belonging to Whitehaven returned from her first trip to
Dumfries on Tuesday week, having performed the voyage in admirable style.
Yesterday was the first day fixed upon for the sale of the Prince Albert
steam tug belonging to this port. Though her owners have had several offers
to treat in private, there were no public bidders and consequently the vessel is still the
property of the original company.
STEAM TUG, PRINCE ALBERT. ALL Persons having any Demands against the
Steam Tug, PRINCE ALBERT, are requested send in an Account of the same
on or before the 1st Day of February, to Mr. John Cowman, No. 2, West
Strand, or 35, Senhouse Street, in order that the same may be examined
and Paid. Whitehaven, January 20th, 1842
CHANGE OF ROUTE. THE WHITEHAVEN STEAM NAVIGATION COMPANY Packets
will perform the undermentioned Voyages: Two Voyages Weekly between
Liverpool and Whitehaven, a Voyage once a Fortnight between Whitehaven
and Belfast, and a Voyage once a Fortnight between Liverpool and
Workington or Maryport, alternately, landing Passengers at Whitehaven
in passing from Liverpool. ...
STEAM TUG FOR SALE. To be SOLD by AUCTION, on TUESDAY, the 1 July, 1868, at
the Albion Hotel, King Street, Whitehaven, at Seven o'Clock in the Evening, by
order of the Trustees of the Town and Harbour, All that good VESSEL or
STEAM TUG "PRINCE ALBERT," of Whitehaven, 64 Horse Power, nett Register
Tonnage 37, and at present in Working Order. Further particulars may obtained
from Mr. JOHN COLLINS, the Secretary to the Trustees or from Mr NICHOLSON, the Harbour
Master.
A change of wind on Friday last induced many to put to sea and, as
many as 140 sail left Whitehaven on Friday morning. In less than six
hours, the largest fleet that ever sailed from any Cumberland port
was towed out of our harbour by the two steam-tugs, Ajax and Prince
Albert. [Ajax:
ON 12788 registered London to 1864, then Whitehaven, owned Whitehaven
from 1858, built Garmouth 1855, wooden, 100hp paddles, in MNL to 1876]
Back to index
The new steam-packet, Union, arrived Workington from Glasgow on the 15th instant.
STEWARD WANTED. WANTED, immediately, board of the Steam Packet UNION,
a STEWARD, who will have the Benefit of supplying the Cabin. He must
produce Recommendations from his last Employers. Apply (if Letter, to be
post-paid) to Mr. GEO. IRVIN, Agent, Workington. Workington, 7th July,
1834.
STEAM COMMUNICATION BETWEEN WORKINGTON, MARYPORT, AND LIVERPOOL.
THE Steam Packet UNION, S. T. Mills, Master, will sail between WORKINGTON,
MARYPORT, and LIVERPOOL, at the undermentioned periods. The Union is
known to be a remarkably safe and swift boat (generally performing her
passage in ten hours and a half); she is fitted up in a superior
manner, with every attention to the comfort and convenience of Passengers.
Shippers will find this a most desirable conveyance, there being no
dues at either Workington or Maryport; ...
THE UNION STEAMER. TO THE EDITOR OF THE ALBION. Permit me, through the
medium of your paper, to correct the erroneous statements which have
appeared in various journals relating the steam-packet Union, of which
vessel I am master, on her late voyage from this port to Maryport. We
sailed from the George's Pier, at a little before ten on the morning
of the 25 th ulto., with a strong wind about W.N.W., and a heavy sea,
which increased as we proceeded. When about fifteen miles north of the
Floating Light, the vessel was struck by a tremendous sea, which
caused her to leak very much and put out the fires. Night was coming
on, and, as the gale continued to increase, our situation became most
alarming; it required all our exertions to keep the vessel free, and,
having only our canvas to trust to, we set as much sail as she could
carry, and bore away for Pile of Foudrey [sic Piel]. About eleven o'clock we
discovered Pile Light, which was hailed with gladness by all on board.
Aided by Divine Providence, we reached the harbour, and about half-past
one in the morning I ran the vessel on the ground. Finding that we
were able to gain upon the leak and keep her afloat, we swung her off
into deep water again as the tide flowed, and engaged men from the
shore to relieve our own crew, which by this time was much fatigued
with pumping and bailing. As the steam-boat Windermere was lying in
the harbour, at a short distance from us, I hailed the master, and
requested that he would tow us on a bank to windward: he consented,
and we took up our anchor; but, owing to the strong wind that
prevailed, the attempt did not succeed, for the Windermere was obliged
to let go of us, and we again came to anchor. In about half an hour, I
weighed anchor a second time and ran my vessel on a bank to leeward,
without any further assistance, and succeeded in finding out the leak
when the tide ebbed. On the following morning, we backed the vessel off
again, and were prepared to proceed on our voyage. By publishing these
facts in your journal, you will greatly oblige, sir, your very humble
Servant, SAMPSON MILLS, Steam-boat Union, Liverpool, 9th Nov., 1837.
STEAM COMMUNICATION Between LIVERPOOL, WORKINGTON & MARYPORT. The
powerful Steam-packet UNION. S. T. Mills. Master, Having been refitted
with new boilers by Messrs. Fawcett and Co., and completely equipped.
will resume her station on Tuesday next, and sail from the Brunswick
Basin, calling at George's Pier, WORKINGTON and MARYPORT, and return the
following appointed times. ...
[later adverts: Edward Robinson, master, continue to Nov 1841 when removed from station]
DESTRUCTION OF WORKINGTON STEAMTUG BY FIRE. We recently announced the
arrival at Workington of a new steam-tug, the Derwent, for the use of
the harbour, in assisting to tow vessels in and out of port. On
Tuesday night last, at about eleven o'clock, the vessel was
discovered by a young man residing in the immediate vicinity to be on
fire, and an alarm was instantly given. The flames, however, rapidly
gained upon her timbers, so that the fire had made considerable head,
before assistance could be procured to extinguish it. Fortunately, the
tide was beginning to flow and there was an unusually heavy fresh from
the river, so that while the inhabitants of the vicinity who hastened
to the spot were discharging buckets of water from above, a number of
carpenters and other parties in boats succeeded in scuttling the tug,
and thereby sinking her and putting a stop to the conflagration.
The damage sustained by the vessel is considerable. Her decks and
beams have been completely destroyed by the flames, and it is believed
that many of her timbers will have to be replaced. The present
estimate is, that as it has not been found possible effectively to
repair her without removing her boiler and machinery, the cost will be
about £400.
On an investigation into the circumstances of
the fire, instituted by the trustees of the harbour, it has been
ascertained that the master, engineman, and a youth employed on board
the tug, left her between six and seven o'clock on Tuesday evening,
then lying in the dock, between the harbour-house and Messrs.
Lambfort's shipbuilding yard, having seen that everything was safe on
board. At a quarter to ten the same night, the harbour master walked
along the quay, within two or three yards of the vessel, when she
appeared perfectly safe, and there was not the slightest smell or
other indication of any mischief being about to happen. From these and
other circumstances, the trustees have come to the conclusion that the
occurrence has originated in the diabolical act of an incendiary; and
they have, accordingly, offered a reward of £50 for the
apprehension of the culprit.
The fire commenced between the
forecastle bulkhead and the grate, so that it could not have been
occasioned by the handful of fire, covered with a few shovels of small
coals, slacked with water, left in the engine room; and, in further
corroboration of this fact, the grate with the coals in the
engine-room was afterwards found in precisely the same state as it had
been left on the preceding evening. It is supposed that the incendiary
obtained access between the decks by forcing himself through an
opening which was found to exist near the funnel, whence he could
easily enter the engine-room, and proceed from thence to the place
where the fire appears to have broken out.
We regret to say that
no clue has been as yet discovered likely to lead to the detection of
the perpetrator of this abominable outrage; and it is probable that
the real origin of the fire will remain a mystery.
The tug has
been taken on Messrs. Peile, Scott, and Co.'s patent slip, to undergo
the necessary repairs as speedily as possible.
The Workington Steam Tug. That useful appendage of the harbour, the
Steam Tug Derwent, ever since her arrival his been subject to an
unfortunate series of mishaps. First she was noted for the frequency
of her thumps against the quays, then she was burned to the water's
edge, a few hundreds expended on repairs, and a reward of £50
offered for the apprehension of the "incendiary". Nothing further
worthy of special notice occurred until Thursday, the 24th ult, when
about seven o'clock, a.m, her steam being up, the skipper proceeded to
sea to heave the accumulated ashes overboard. The Cherub, Ditchburn
master, was approaching the port with a fine breeze at the rate of six
knots an hour, exhibiting the usual signal for the harbour boat to
assist in berthing. By some unexplained means the steamer got across
the vessel's bow and was struck, almost capsized, and narrowly escaped
going to the bottom. Her engines being incapacitated by the shock, she
was towed into the harbour to rest for a season and undergo the
needful repairs.
Back to index
The large and powerful steam-tug, named "The Hercules," [possibly this] has arrived at Maryport, from
Liverpool, to supply the place of the tug belonging to the former
port, which is now undergoing repair.
STEAM TUG BURNED AT MARYPORT. - About half-past two o'clock on
Tuesday afternoon, a volume of dense smoke was observed to burst out
from the decks of the steam-tug Rambler, then lying in the harbour.
The tide was out at the time, the master and the engineers having
completed their morning's work had gone to dinner. In a few minutes,
several parties interested in the vessel were assembled, and soon
ascertained that she was on fire; no time was lost in getting the
town's engine down into the bed of the river, worked by an efficient
body of carpenters; and, by the aid of ship-masters and other
volunteers, in an hour the fire was entirely subdued. The damage done
was not so great as might have been anticipated, being confined to the
cabin and after-part of the vessel, and differing from the case at
Workington, in being beyond any doubt entirely accidental, having
arisen from a spark communicating to the patent felt surrounding the
boiler.
Pleasure Trip to Annan. The owners of the steam-tug Rambler, of
Maryport, gave a pleasure trip to Annan on Wednesday last. The hour
fixed for sailing was 5 o'clock a.m., soon after which, the Rambler
steamed out of the harbour, and arrived at Annan Waterfoot [a pier
near the mouth of the River Annan] in little more than two hours.
After visiting the town of Annan, the party proceeded to Dumfries by
rail, and visited most of the principal places in and about that town,
and returned in the evening, arriving at about 10. The day was
remarkably fine, and the party, numbering about seventy, of the owners
of the vessel and their friends, amongst whom were several ladies,
were highly gratified with their excursion. The Maryport brass band
was in attendance, and played several popular airs which contributed
greatly to the pleasures of the day.
STEAM TUG RAMBLER FOR SALE. be SOLD by AUCTION, at the ATHENEUM,
MARYPORT, on FRIDAY, May 4th, 1883. The Steam-tug RAMBLER, of Maryport,
with Hull, Boilers, and Machinery, as she now lies at
Middleton's-yard. (Must be broken up on the spot). For further particulars
apply to Mr. JOHN EDGAR, Shipbroker, or T. BOYD, Auctioneer. Sale at
Three o'clock prompt.
Back to index
Back to index
NEW STEAM PACKET. THE CARLISLE and WHITEHAVEN STEAM COMPANY, beg to
inform the Public in general, that their new STEAM-PACKET, THE
ELIZABETH, D. WRIGHT, MASTER, continues to ply weekly with Goods and
Passengers from Carlisle, to Whitehaven, and Isle of Man, and Vice
Versa; taking in passengers at Annan, Skinburness, Allonby, and
Maryport. .....
Steam Packet Elizabeth, which plies between Carlisle and the Isle of
Man, has encountered a succession of mishaps during her short career. In
addition to several disasters at sea, she this week had the misfortune to
have her boiler burst, whilst passing through one of the Canal Locks.
The explosion, fortunately, was not violent, and no one was injured
by it. We understand that the requisite repairs will be finished in few
days.
Steam Tug in Port Carlisle. We are glad to hear that the Canal Company
have come to the resolution of purchasing a small steam tug, to run
between Port Carlisle and Annan Waterfoot. This is a plan which we
have often recommended; and are sure it will be attended with the most
beneficial effects to the trade of this city.
New Steam Tug and Ferry Boat at Port Carlisle. We learn that the
Carlisle canal company, in conjunction with the two steam companies,
have purchased from Robert Napier, Esq., of Glasgow, a small steam
boat, which is now receiving a new boiler, and is expected shortly at
Port Carlisle. This has been long been wanted, and will, we have no doubt,
prove a great accommodation by taking passengers to and from the large
steamers in low tides, towing the steam company's lighters to and from
Annan Waterfoot with goods and, during the summer season, she will ply
daily between Port Carlisle and Annan Water Foot with passengers,
suiting the arrival and sailing of the canal passage boat.
On this day week, whilst the Carlisle Canal Company's steam boat, the Clarence,
was lying at Annan Water-foot, fire broke out in the forecastle,
during the temporary absence of the person in charge of her, which
communicated itself to the bulk-head, and the vessel was presently in
flames. She was immediately scuttled to prevent her being totally
destroyed, but not until her decks and beams, from the funnel forward,
had been rendered completely useless.
Steam Tug Boat for Sale. TO BE SOLD, Wednesday, the 16th day of
September, at the Bush Hotel, Carlisle, THE STEAM TUG Clarence of 60
Tons Register, having a 45 horse-power, low pressure Engine, made by
R. Napier. The Vessel's Hull had, last month, a very extensive repair,
is in good condition, and is now lying at Annan Water-foot for
inspection. The above Vessel is well worth the attention of persons
wanting a Tug, as it will no doubt be sold cheap. Sale to commence at
6 o'clock in the Evening. Further particulars may be known by application to
Mr. Thompson, at the Canal Office, Carlisle. September 1st. 1846.
Back to index
Also described as owned Carlisle and Liverpool Steam
Navigation Co. Passenger tender and tug. Excursion
advertised 1849. Note another, larger, steamer called Alice was active in the Mersey.
Steam Navigation. The annual inspection of the vessels belonging to
the Carlisle, Annan, and Liverpool Steam Navigation Company, took
place on Tuesday last. A large body of the proprietary proceeded to
Port Carlisle, by the Canal Company's boat the "Swallow," which left
the Canal Basin at eleven o'clock. At "the Port" it was a gala day.
The "Royal Victoria" and the " Cumberland" arrived at the Port within
few minutes of each other, the former having all her colours spread in
the gayest fashion. The steam-tug "Alice" was waiting, with her steam
up, and having taken the party on board, proceeded to meet and tow
into port the Helena, a timber-laden vessel from America. This feat
was accomplished in gallant style by the little steamer, and the party
soon afterwards sat down to an excellent dinner on board the "Royal
Victoria". The chair was ably filled by R Cowen, Esq., and amongst the
guests the company had the honour of enumerating Mr. Miller and Mr.
Penny, the celebrated engineers of London. The usual loyal toasts were
given and responded to with more than common enthusiasm, and the
evening was spent in a spirit of cordiality truly characteristic of
the inhabitants of the "merrie city."
The Steam Tug ALICE, now lying at Port Carlisle; 56 feet long, 13 feet beam,
and 7 feet depth of hold; has two circular boilers, and one engine 20
horse power; built at Shields in 1843. had new boilers and funnel, and
the engine and hull put in thorough repair in 1849; tows well, and is
an excellent sea boat, having been brought from Leith, round the
Highlands of Scotland to Port Carlisle, December 1846. For further particulars and
inventories apply to Messrs. Stuart and Simpson. 9, Clements-lane.
Lombard-street, London; Mr. Edward Jobling, Steam Navigation Office, Carlisle:
Mr. J. D. Thomson, 35, Water-street, Liverpool, or to J. H. RAYNER
and Co. Brokers,
ON SALE, BY PRIVATE TREATY, THE Steam Tug "ALICE," at present plying
between Lytham and Preston. - Apply to ROBERT PARKER, 3, Chapel
Walks, Preston.
Back to index
A larger vessel, called Engineer, was active at Liverpool at similar
dates.
The steam boat Engineer was engaged by a publican at Walker, named George Spence,
to make a trip to Hartlepool, and that accordingly she set sail with a good
number of passengers. On her return at night, she was preceded over
the bar by the steamboat Great Contest, and was followed by the
Wonder, and it is suspected that these boats were trying each other's
speed. In addition to these boats, on arriving at above Hebburn, the
steam-ship Vesta ran up the river, and another steam-boat was towing a
vessel down the river to sea. The Engineer had arrived at Hebburn
Staith, when a sculler boat, containing the deceased parties, pushed
from the shore, and a ship, it is supposed, having obstructed their
view, they were not aware that the Engineer was proceeding up the river, till,
having got nearly into the Channel, they descried it at about the
distance of thirty or forty yards. They immediately hailed the
steamer, when the engines were stopped; but, in consequence of the
great way that the steamer had on her at the time, together with the
sculler boat having got into the wake of the Great Contest and a
strong wind prevailing from the north east, in ebb tide, and the
number of vessels on the river, it was unable to make headway, and the
steamer coming upon it, cut it completely in two. The individuals who
were in it were, of course, thrown into the water, and though
exertions were made to save them, by lowering down a boat and searching for
them, they were both drowned.
Steam Tug in the Solway. We lately had occasion to notice the arrival
at Port Carlisle of a small steam tug, the Engineer, and we are now
glad to learn that during the short time she has been there, the
advantage of a steam tug in the Solway has been shown in the most
striking manner. This small steamer, of about 40 horse power, was brought
round from the Tyne to be used as a tender to the large new iron
steamer, Cumberland, plying from Port Carlisle and Annan to Liverpool
twice a week, but when not required for this purpose we find her
busily at work towing other vessels. Last week she towed a large
foreign brig and several other vessels laden with coal and alabaster
from Port Carlisle and Annan out to sea, thus enabling them to make a
passage when, without such assistance, they must have remained at
Annan Waterfoot, wind-bound. We understand it is intended to have a
pleasure trip with her to Kirkcudbright to afford the inhabitants of
Carlisle and Annan a day's excursion by sea and an opportunity of
visiting some of the most beautiful and romantic scenery in Scotland.
Arrangements will be made to leave Carlisle by the canal boat early in
the morning, to embark on board the steam tug at Port Carlisle, and at
once proceed on the voyage, which may take about three hours, leaving
ample time for a pleasant ramble on the Scottish shore, and to return
by the same route in the evening.
Pleasure Trip. A pleasure party started early on Friday morning last,
the 25th ultimo, from Port Carlisle and Annan Waterfoot by the
steam-tug Engineer, for Kirkcudbright; intending to spend several
hours in viewing that beautifully situated and ancient burgh, and the
objects of natural and historical interest in the vicinity,
unfortunately, on the arrival of the steamer at the Manxman's Lake, at
the mouth the river Dee, the tide had so far receded that she could
not get up to the quay at the town. The party, under these
circumstances, landed at the Lake, and were conveyed up to town in
omnibusses and other conveyances, which were there to meet them. At
five o'clock, they embarked amidst the cheers of hundreds of
inhabitants who assembled at the quay, for the steamer had by this
time come up, to bid them farewell, and with a salute from the battery
on the Moat-brae [small mount west of Kirkcudbright]. This is the
first pleasure trip to Kirkcudbright from the ports of Carlisle and
Annan.
Pleasure Trip. On Monday, the 16th instant, the lovers of the picturesque
residing at Port Carlisle, Annan, and Skinburness, had ample
opportunity afforded them of indulging their taste in a cheap
pleasure-trip, afforded by the Liverpool and Carlisle Steam-Navigation
Company, in their tug, The Engineer, to Southerness, a small village in the
vicinity of Criffel, Dumfriesshire [a hill near the coast]. After landing, which they did at
about half-past twelve, the passage having occupied little more than
three hours, the party divided, some proceeding to the beautiful village
of Kirkbean [inland of Carsethorn], to see the grounds in its vicinity, others to Preston
Mill, &c. At five, p.m., they proceeded on their way home, where they
arrived in due time, highly delighted with their expedition. The
arrangement in the vessel was all that could be desired and reflected
great credit to Mr. Baxter, (the company's agent, at Annan,) with whom
the trip originated.
Steamer Cumberland from Liverpool to Annan,......
A powerful Steam Tender will convey Passengers, Live Stock, &c,
from Port Carlisle to the Cumberland free of charge. ....
The Lighters leave the Canal Basin at Carlisle, with Goods intended
for the Steamer, at 10 o'clock on the day previous to the sailing from
Annan. [same advert to August 1853, with steamer Newcastle not Cumberland]
Port Carlisle Races. ... The Engineer Steamer, Captain Grant, will
leave Annan at eight o'Clock in the morning and return at Seven
o'clock in the evening.
Port Carlisle Races: ... The Canal Passage Boat will Leave Carlisle on
the Morning of the Races, 8 o'clock, and leave Port Carlisle at 7
o'clock. The Engineer Steamer, Capt. Grant, will leave Annan at 8
o'clock in the Morning and return at 7 o'clock in the Evening.
Back to index
201nrt, 238grt, 134.4 x 21.5ft.
Engines by Boulton & Paul of London
First owner: Carlisle and Liverpool Steam Navigation Co.
Sold 1835 to St George SPC, Dublin. Traded Dundalk.
Reported as "of Dublin" taking troops from Greenock to Santander 1835.
Registered Liverpool from 1839 as barque (no engine) of 464 tons burthen.
Owned London 1845 as a square-rigged vessel, 521 tons burthen;
reported lost 1849 off Santiago.
More detail
Saturday last, a new steam vessel, built on the plan, and of the same
dimensions as the Solway, and intended for the Carlisle and Liverpool
trade, was launched from the building yard of Grayson and Co.
Holyhead.
Carlisle. Arrived. Solway, Little (steamer); Cumberland, Sewell (steamer), goods, &c from
Liverpool.
Sailed. Solway, Little (steamer); Cumberland, Sewell (steamer),
goods, &c. for Liverpool.
Liverpool. Sunday 22 March. Arrived. Cumberland, Little, Dundalk
THE "GEORGE THE FOURTH". It will be in the recollection of our readers that a
steam-ship of this name was converted into a sailing vessel, and most
successfully, under the superintendence of Mr. R. Talbot, shipbuilder,
who has since also reconstructed the "Cumberland" in the same manner.
Both ships have turned out to be "clippers".
Manilla
Nov 27. We also regret to announce the loss of the ship Cumberland,
Lewis, of London, laden with a cargo of rice from Bally [sic, Bali?],
bound to Hong Kong; the Cumberland foundered about 40 miles from the
port of Santiago [sic, not located; possibly Santiago Fort on waterfront
at Manilla?]; two passengers (one being Mr
Dawson, the owner), and 28 men were saved, but the captain and 5 seamen
perished.
Back to index
New Steam Vessel. On Tuesday last was launched from the yard of Messrs.
Seddon and Laidley[sic], Liverpool, a Steam-boat of 390 tons register,
possessing a fine model, great length and capacity, and with an amazingly
light draught of water, having a full-length male figure, in undress
costume, and will be propelled by two engines of 75 horse-power. The day
was uncommonly fine, and the vessel went from the stocks into the briny
element, amid the shouts of the assembled multitude. She was named the
Newcastle. She will be registered at Carlisle, and employed by the Carlisle
and Liverpool Steam Company.
On Tuesday next, at twelve o'clock, will be launched from the yard of
Messrs. Seddon and Leadley, North Birkenhead, a beautiful steam
packet for the Carlisle trade, and to be commanded by Captain Sewell.
THE "GEORGE THE FOURTH". It will be in the recollection of our readers that a
steam-ship of this name was converted into a sailing vessel, and most
successfully, under the superintendence of Mr. R. Talbot, shipbuilder,
who has since also reconstructed the "Cumberland" in the same manner.
Both ships have turned out to be "clippers".
The Newcastle Steamer. We understand that the steamer Newcastle, of this port,
which was disabled on her voyage from Belfast in the late gale, is now
in the Graving Dock, at Liverpool, receiving a thorough overhaul in her
hull and machinery, under the superintendence of Lloyd's surveyor, and
that the owners have engaged the new iron steamer Fire Fly, to ply
between Port Carlisle and Liverpool and Belfast during the winter. The
Fire Fly is an exceedingly handsome vessel, and considered one of the
fastest afloat. She has large cabins, elegantly fitted up; also
spacious room forward for the steerage passengers, and her draught of
water being very light, she is well adapted for the navigation of the
Solway.
For SALE or CHARTER, the well known Steamer NEWCASTLE; 231 tons register; with
engines of 160 horse power, by Messrs Bury, Curtis and Kennedy; This vessel
has just had a thorough overhaul in her hull and machinery, and stands A 1 at Lloyds
for nine years;...
[Iron paddle steamer Fire Fly, ON 8070, built Tod M'Gregor, 1845 for Ardrossan - Belfast
service.
More detail]
FIRST-CLASS STEAMER FROM PORT CARLISLE TO LIVERPOOL AND BELFAST.
Performing the passage in one tide. The Splendid and Fast-Sailing New
Iron Steamers NEWCASTLE, Capt. Burton, FIRE FLY, Capt. Clarke, Plies
between PORT CARLISLE and LIVERPOOL, calling at ANNAN and off
WHITEHAVEN, (Weather permitting,) ...
[from Jan 1847; latest June 1847 when Albert, Capt Dant, replaced Fire Fly]
CARLISLE. FOR SALE or CHARTER, the well-known Steamer NEWCASTLE, 231 tons
register, with engines 160 horse-power, by Messrs. Bury, Curtis, and Kennedy.
This vessel has just had a thorough overhaul in her hull and machinery,
and now stands A 1 at Lloyd's for nine years; she sails fast, carries a very
large cargo for her tonnage, and having roomy decks, is well adapted
for carrying stock, for which she has a high character; her cabins are
all new and handsome, and upon the whole she is a most useful boat.
Further particulars may known on applying to JOHN CARRUTHERS, Steam
Packet-office, Carlisle. Steam Packet-office, Carlisle, Oct. 4, 1847.
[advert appeared until March 1848]
GREAT REDUCTION IN FARES, AND A QUICK PASSAGE from CARLISLE to LIVERPOOL
Best Cabin 7s. Second Cabin 3s. Including Canal Boat Fare from
Carlisle. The First-class New Iron Steamer, "ROSE," or
"NEWCASTLE," plies between LIVERPOOL, ANNAN, and PORT CARLISLE, twice a
week, as under, calling off WHITEHAVEN, weather permitting....
STEAM TO LIVERPOOL. THE First-Class Steamer, "NEWCASTLE," Captain Logan, in
conjunction with the Port Carlisle Railway, will RESUME her STATION on Monday, the 24th
inst., and ply between PORT CARLISLE & LIVERPOOL (calling at
Annan and off Whitehaven) as follows ...
Back to index
On Wednesday morning last, a new steam vessel belonging to a company recently
formed in Carlisle, (named the Carlisle and Annan Steam-navigation
Company) and called the City of Carlisle, arrived at the mouth of the
canal from Liverpool, and was much cheered by a party assembled to greet
her with a welcome. In the afternoon a party of 130 dined together to
commemorate the event, W. N. Hodgson, Esq., Mayor, in the chair; and Mr.
George Cowen, of Dalston, Vice. Suitable toasts were given and replied
to, and the evening spent very agreeably. The vessel is said to have
been built on a fine model, and more adapted for speed than large stowage;
her fittings up are good, and she is provided with very powerful engines.
[launched 10th February]
Carlisle Annan & Liverpool Steam Navigation Company have placed their fine and powerful steamer,
CITY OF CARLISLE, JAMES IRVING. Commander, On the CARLISLE and DUBLIN
STATION, to Sail as undermentioned, calling off Whitehaven and Douglas, Isle of
Man, in going and returning, to land and receive Passengers, (Weather
permitting.) This will open a rapid Communication between Newcastle
and Dublin, and the Company trust they will receive the support of the
Public in the Undertaking. ...
Steam Navigation. The proprietors ot the steam-ship, City of
Carlisle, have conferred very considerable benefit upon this district
by sending their powerful steamer to the Dumfries and Liverpool
station. The vessel has for some months sailed between these places,
and has been remarkably well supported, the proprietors (some of whom
are merchants in Dumfries) are apparently determined to continue her
on the station, they are now erecting a large double jetty at the
Carse for the convenience of shippers of stock in Galloway. We know
that this steamer has been always very fortunate, is strong and well
built, and in general performs the voyage in one tide; from her light
draft of water and large burden she is well adapted for our river.
[from Dumfries Courier]
For SALE, The Steamer CITY of CARLISLE; lately employed between Wexford and
Liverpool [from February 1841]. Length, 132 feet; depth of hold, 12 feet; breadth of beam,
21 feet; 283 tons builders' measurement; 186 tons per register;
coppered and copper fastened; built at Liverpool, in 1834. of the very best
materials; is well found in stores; has two engines made by Messrs. Fawcett,
Preston and Co. of the aggregate power of 120 horses; may be seen in
the Trafalgar Dock where she now is. Apply to Thos Naylor Esq Wexford, or to GLOVER &
THORP, India Buildings, Water-street.
Distressing Shipwreck. The City of Carlisle steamer was completely
lost on the morning of Wednesday last, on a dangerous shoal a few
miles off Wainfleet Haven, on the coast of Lincolnshire, and the
manner in which the crew escaped is truly miraculous. It appears that
she was formerly employed on the Hull and, Carlisle station, and being
considered a good sea-boat has latterly been running to and from Goole
and Honfleur, under the command of Mr. Proudlove, a very experienced
mariner, with a crew consisting of 13 persons. Soon after she had
started from Honfleur, the wind commenced blowing very violently,
heavy falls of snow now and then falling. She still, however, made
progress notwithstanding the boisterous state of the weather, and at
an early hour on the above morning, the Skegness light at the entrance
of Wainfleet harbour was descried. Just as she had got abreast of
Dogbank Sand [sic, Dog Head Bank], a dangerous shoal off that part of the coast, the snow
began to fall so densely that it was with some difficulty her course
could be noticed. At that moment the greatest alarm prevailed amongst
the crew, fearing that she would be carried on to the shoal.
Notwithstanding the wind and snow still kept increasing, the crew
manfully attended to the helm and other duties. Their exertions,
however, were fruitless, for in a very short period she was driven
with great force on to the body of the sands. The captain,
anticipating that she might not be so seriously damaged as to prevent
her being got off, directed some of the crew to use every effort to
lighten her, while others were engaged in sounding the pumps and
hoisting signals of distress. These endeavours had the desired effect,
so far as getting her off the shoal; but on her being once more afloat
it was soon discovered that she had several feet of water in her hold,
which clearly indicated that her keel had been carried away or her
bottom most seriously stove in. All hands instantly went to work at
the pumps, in the hopes of saving her by running on shore. Ere many
minutes had elapsed, however, the water had gained the engine-room,
and was fast extinguishing the fires; and it appeared very evident to
the crew that if they did not immediately retreat into the ship's boat
and shove off, they would inevitably perish with the ill-fated
steamer, as she was then fast sinking. They accordingly did so, and
had not gained more than 200 yards from her, before they perceived her
gradually disappear. After buffeting about for several hours, the
lifeboat, under the command of Samuel Moody, of Skegness, proceeded to
their assistance, and conveyed them safely into harbour, although in a
state of deplorable exhaustion. It is almost needless to state that
the City of Carlisle is totally lost, together with the cargo, which
was of a miscellaneous character.
Back to index
LAUNCH OF A STEAM Ship. On Monday last was launched, from the building-yard
of Messrs. W. and T. Wilson, near the Clarence Dock, a splendid new
steam-ship called the Royal Victoria, in honour of that princess, who
attained her majority on Wednesday. The Royal Victoria is the property
of the Carlisle, Annan, and Liverpool Steam Navigation Company, and is
intended, to ply between this port and Carlisle and Annan. She is a
very beautiful vessel, and does great credit to our spirited
townsmen Messrs. Wilson. She is a steamer of the largest class,
measuring 450 tons; and a pair of very powerful engines, made by
those eminent engineers Fawcett and Preston, are nearly ready for
erection. A number of the directors of the company from Carlisle and a
large assemblage of their friends took lunch on board their
steam-packet City of Carlisle, and afterwards adjourned to the Royal
Hotel, where the evening was spent with great conviviality.
COLLISION ON THE RIVER. A collision took place on the river on
Wednesday night last, nearly opposite the magazines, in consequence of
which two fine steamboats were very seriously damaged, one life was
lost, and other individuals were seriously injured. The following are
the particulars of the accident observed by the parties on board the
steamer Prince of Wales. The last named boat, which belongs to the
Cork and Liverpool Steampacket Company, was putting out on her voyage
to Cork. She had crossed the river, and got to the Cheshire shore,
shortly before nine o'clock. A Dublin steamer was close astern,
steering the same course. She had arrived within half a mile of the
rock, the weather being rather thick. Captain M'Neilage, her
commander, was on the paddle-box, when he discovered a light ahead,
which he conceived to be steamer inward bound. He immediately called
out to the man at the wheel to port the helm. This order was repeated
by the mate, and promptly obeyed. The inward-bound vessel was the
Royal Victoria, from Carlisle, and it appears that she put her helm to
starboard, in consequence of which she passed athwart the bows of the
Prince of Wales, and the latter ran into her just forward of the
paddle-box. The concussion was, of course, extremely violent, and both
vessels were cut down within a few feet of the water. The damage on
board the Royal Victoria was much more serious than that on board the
Prince of Wales, the latter drove into the engine room of the other.
Only one person on board the Prince of Wales was injured; but we sorry
to say that the concussion caused serious injury to several
individuals in the Royal Victoria. Four or five individuals have been
carried to the hospital, one of whom has already died of the injury
which he suffered. Both vessels were got round and taken safely into
dock.
John Brown died on his way to the hospital, apparently from
some severe internal injury. William Savage has a fracture of the
spine, and consequent paralysis of the lower half of his body. This
poor man lies in most pitiable state. Ellen Savage, his wife, several
severe contusions of body, is likely to do well. Margaret Dixon, a
young woman, with severe injury to the lower part of the spine, with
partial paralysis. Robert Unsworth, severe contusion of the side,
badly injured. The three latter cases are doing as well as could be
anticipated.
The Directors of the Carlisle, Annan, and Liverpool Steam Navigation
Company have arranged that their STEAM SHIP, ROYAL VICTORIA, 450 Tons Burthen,
and 200 horses power, Joseph Graves, Commander, shall Sail from MARYPORT TO BANGOR
& MENAI BRIDGE, North Wales. ...
FROM ANNAN WATERFOOT, The Steamer Alice will sail on TUESDAY
Morning, the 17th July, at 7 clock, taking Passengers direct to the Royal
Victoria, in Maryport Harbour.
For SALE or CHARTER, The very superior sea-going Paddle Steamer ROYAL
VICTORIA, Register tonnage, (exclusive of engine room), 315 tons.
Tubular boilers and engines, 200 horse power. Has just received a
thorough examination in graving dock; had all requisite repairs
effected and can be sent to sea at a few hours notice. This fine
steamer was built under particular inspection, and will be sold at
great sacrifice to enable the Carlisle, Annan, and Liverpool Steam
Navigation Company to wind up their affairs. She has just successfully
completed two voyages to the Mediterranean; is well adapted for the
cattle carrying trade, stows a very large cargo, and has excellent
accommodations for passengers. If not sold shortly the Company are
open to an offer for Charter. Now lying in Wellington Dock, Apply to
Edward Jobling, Carlisle; or to J. D. THOMSON, 35, Water-street,
Liverpool.
Back to index
The TOWN of LIVERPOOL [later City of Dublin] Steam Packet Company, in
order to render the communication between Liverpool and Dublin more
frequent, and to give increased facilities to the trade of the two
Ports, announce to the Public that they are proceeding with every
possible despatch in completing their number of Vessels, so as to be
enabled to sail one from each port daily. Their new Vessels are of
such increased tonnage as, they trust, will shortly enable them to
carry all descriptions of goods, both rough and fine, on terms equal
to those of sailing Vessels; and they are determined that nothing
shall be wanted in making their Establishment as useful and
satisfactory to the Public as possible. Their Rates of Freights, -
commenced on the 1st of May, will be found considerably reduced, and
they are determined to continue this reduction as low as the expense
of navigating their Vessls will permit. The Capital of the Company
having been increased £100,000, the remaining Shares now
unappropriated have been reserved exclusively for Shippers and
Importers. Share holders alone are entitled to a free passage. Their
Vessels, the CITY OF DUBLIN and TOWN OF LIVERPOOL, continue to ply, as
usual. Their third and fourth Vessels, the HIBERNIA and BRITANNIA are
nearly complete; their fifth and sixth will be ready by the end of the
the year. ...
July 23. Arrived: Hibernia steam-packet, Liverpool, passengers......
STEAM COMMUNICATION FROM PORT CARLISLE TO
LIVERPOOL AND DUBLIN.
THE CARLISLE, ANNAN, & LIVERPOOL STEAM NAVIGATION COMPANY beg to
inform the Public, that the under-mentioned STEAM SHIP, will Sail from
PORT CARLISLE, ANNAN WATER-FOOT, and LIVERPOOL, as follows, calling
off WHITEHAVEN (weather permitting) to land and receive passengers,
ROYAL VICTORIA, 450 Tons, John Hudson, Commander;....
And between PORT CARLISLE and DUBLIN, calling at Annan Water-Foot
and Fleetwood, to land and receive Passengers and Cargo; and calling
off Whitehaven (weather permitting), to land and receive passengers,
the Steam Ship, "Hibernia", Capt. Dani, is intended to Sail at the
under-mentioned times FROM PORT CARLISLE.....
[advert to July 1844]
FLEETWOOD STEAM-SHIPS, FOR GLASGOW, BELFAST, LONDONDERRY, AND DUBLIN:
For GLASGOW, the new Iron Steam ships HER MAJESTY,
Captain J. WILSON; ROYAL CONSORT, Captain Ewing, 700 tons, and 350
horse-power; every MONDAY, TUESDAY, THURSDAY, and FRIDAY EVENINGS,
from FLEETWOOD and ARDROSSAN. ...
For LONDONDERRY,
the Iron Steam-ship PRINCESS ALICE, Lieut. LAMB, R.N., Commander, From
FLEETWOOD every THURSDAY EVENING, from LONDONDERRY every SATURDAY.
..
For BELFAST, the Iron Steam-ships PRINCE OF WALES,
Capt. M'NEILAGE; PRINCESS ALICE, Capt. LAMB; 500 tons; 250 horse-power, from
FLEETWOOD every MONDAY, WEDNESDAY, and SATURDAY EVENINGS. From BELFAST
every MONDAY, WEDNESDAY, and FRIDAY.
For
DUBLIN, the well-known Steamer HIBERNIA, Capt. Dani, From FLEETWOOD every
WEDNESDAY, calling off DOUGLAS, ISLE OF MAN. From DUBLIN every TUESDAY,
(weather permitting.) Apply to the CITY OF DUBLIN CO.'S OFFICE,
Dublin...
Back to index
Seems to have sailed to Annan and then steam tender Engineer was used to
take passengers on to Port Carlisle. First reported in the Solway
in 1848.
By 1852 owned North of Europe Steam Navigation Company,
registered Lowestoft.
More detail.
The Splendid New Iron Steamer, CUMBERLAND, 600 Tons Burthen, 300 Horse
Power, divided into Five Watertight Compartments with all other recent
improvements for speed, safety and comfort, plies between LIVERPOOL,
ANNAN, and PORT CARLISLE, as follows ... [advert mentioning Cumberland and Newcastle to July 1851]
Lowestoft Infirmary. The managing committee of the Lowestoft Infirmary having
received £2 15s, donation from the captain and crew of the Cumberland
steamer, belonging to the North of Europe Steam Navigation Company,
thankfully acknowledge the same, trusting the good feeling of the Cumberland's
crew may stimulate others to follow their example, and lend their aid
in support of an institution of such incalculable benefit, especially to
seamen, either passing or in port.
DIRECT STEAM COMMUNICATION BETWEEN LIVERPOOL AND CARLISLE, NEWCASTLE,
ANNAN AND DUMFRIES, TWICE WEEKLY. JANUARY, 1855. The Fast
Sailing New Screw Steamer CUMBRIA, Captain DAN GLAISTER, is intended to SAIL between
Maryport and Liverpool, in connection with the Railways to Carlisle
and Newcastle, for the CONVEYANCE of GOODS and PASSENGERS, calling off
Whitehaven, weather permitting, as under (with or without Pilots,
and liberty to tow vessels). ...
Capture of the Steamer Cumbria. Running the Blockade. The New York
papers record the capture of the screw steamer Cumbria, of Carlisle,
with one of the most valuable cargoes taken during the war. The
Cumbria will be remembered as one of the steamers which, until recently,
plied between Silloth and Liverpool. A few months ago she was removed
from the station for repairs, and was subsequently bought by a joint
stock company, in Liverpool, it afterwards turned out, for the purpose of
running the blockade. The following particulars are given of her
capture:
"New York, June 7th. At daybreak, on May 26, the United States'
gunboat Huron, Captain Downs, while lying about five miles south of
Charleston (S.C.), discovered a strange steamer standing close in to
the land. The cable was instantly slipped and chase made for the
stranger, who seeing the Huron's for and aft rig went off dead before
the wind to the southward. it was blowing very fresh from the N.E., the
chaser's square rig was of the greatest service to him. All sail was made
on the Huron, and wetted down, and extra sails extemporised for the
occasion; the engines pushed to 87 revolutions a minute, till she was
rushing through the water at the rate 12 knots. As the Huron began to
gain on her, a shot from the rifle gun on the forecastle brought the
stranger to at a distance of two and half miles, notwithstanding the heavy
sea. She proved to be the screw steamer Cumbria, of Carlisle, built in
England, 500 tons, engines 75-horse power, three masts, with
watertight compartments, pretty and fast. Her cargo of Enfield rifles,
saltpetre, tea, phosphorus, rockets, &c, is one of the most valuable
taken during the war. She goes north under Lieutenant Belknap, of the Huron,
Engineer J. M Adams, late of the Pocohontas.
Boston, June 6: The Cumbria, prize
steamer, 350 tons, arrived at Philadelphia on Sunday evening. She was captured
while attempting to run the blockade at Charleston. She is owned in
Carlisle (England) the cargo is estimated to be worth 300,000 dols."
Back to main index
COUNTESS OF GALLOWAY. On Saturday, there was launched from the building
yard of Messrs. Wood and Mills, a beautiful steamer, called the
Countess of Galloway, of three hundred tons burthen, she is intended
for the trade between the coast of Galloway and this town, which will
be a great desideratum, as at present there is no direct conveyance by
means of steamers. The owners are highly pleased with the model and
fabric of this superb vessel. We believe every exertion will be made
to have the Countess early on the station, she is intended to ply
between Wigtown, Kirkcudbright, Garliestown, Isle of Whithorn,
Creetown, Gatehouse, and this port, as cargoes offer, and at regular
intervals. If the people of Galloway do not support the Countess by
every means in their power, we shall say, that they possess not the
spirit of their forefathers. We are sure that nothing will be wanting
on the Liverpool side of the channel, to make her completely
successful.
LIVERPOOL AND GALLOWAY. The GALLOWAY STEAM NAVIGATION COMPANY'S New
and fast-sailing Packet, COUNTESS OF GALLOWAY, Will sail from the Clarence
Dock, with goods and passengers, for KIRKCUDBRIGHT, calling off ISLE
OF WHITHORN and GARLIESTOWN, (weather permitting.) TO-MORROW, the
12th January, at Four o'Clock in the Afternoon. For particulars apply to
A. LAURIE and CO., 11, King-street.
The COUNTESS of GALLOWAY, steamer, will sail for KIRKCUDBRIGHT,
This Night, at Twelve o'Clock, and from Kirkcudbright for LIVERPOOL,
on FRIDAY next, the 24th instant, at Six o'Clock, Morning. A. LAURIE
and CO., Agents, 17, King-street.
WlGTON. Steamer for Sale. THE COUNTESS OF GALLOWAY, presently lying in
Trafalgar Dock, Liverpool; 145 tons o.m., and 90 horse power; built
1835, by Messrs. Wood and Mill and Messrs. Tod and M'Gregor, of Glasgow,
and presently in excellent working condition. Further information may be
got on applying to Messrs. Tod and M'Gregor, Clyde Foundry, Glasgow;
...
Also ship
model.
Back to main index