83

The Newsletter of the SOUTH WEST MARITIME HISTORY SOCIETY ` ISSN 1360-6980 CONTENTS –NO. 83 – June 2011 Edited by Jonathan Seagrave

EDITORIAL 3

REPORTS OF MEETINGS Swansea 21st May 6

ARTICLES Newspapers On Line Gary Hicks 8

REVIEWS Closing Down Sail Martin Benn rev. David Clement 13 Dynasty of Engineers NLHT rev. Mike Bender 15 Hero of the Fleet William Stone rev. J Seagrave 16

BOOKS RECEIVED 18

LETTERS NOTES AND NEWS 19

WEBERY 27

WELCOME ABOARD 33

UPCOMING EVENTS 36

OFFICERS and COMMITTEE back cover

WEBSITE. http://www.swmaritime.org.uk/ Individual contributions © Individual contributors. Entire journal © South West Maritime History Society 2011. Views expressed are the authors’ and not necessarily those of the Society or editor.

1 Irene passes under Tower Bridge © Laithwaites wines ( See Notes and News)

Annual Subscriptions Due 1st April. £14.00 or £12 if paid by Standing Order. Students can take advantage of our special annual subscription of £7.

2 EDITORIAL

Firstly, my apologies for the small print in SWS82- this was unintentional, and a result of undue haste in getting the magazine out with calling notices. Your Editor has duly lost pay and rum ration!

The Committee has been considering matters of governance and strategy. At the AGM, proposals to update the constitution in line with recent Charity Commission recommendations were agreed. Our thanks are due to Helen Doe for undertaking the laborious task of identifying the differences between our current Constitution-itself approved at the time by the Commission- and the new model version. Unsurprisingly in this day and age, it is about 3 times as long, but actually says pretty much the same things. Nonetheless, it is right we should keep in line with changing ideas about best practice. It does sharpen the duties of the Trustees. Old and new versions are on the website. In total there are around 20 pp. Anyone wanting hard copy should contact the Secretary, George Stephenson, with a large A4 sae and preferably, something to cover printing costs.

One change from the Commission model is that we have agreed to exclude the model provisions for holding property. This is in line with previous discussion where members were clearly not in favour of the Society being directly involved with preservation. We expect to continue as an “information” organisation. It was felt that, if anyone were to give us a large sum, we would need to consult you all, and there would certainly be time to amend again if necessary. Also, if additional resources were to become available to us we would, without change, have the opportunity to enhance our existing modest programme of grants and awards. There is no shortage of organisations we could support !

3 Dale Thomas, our Chairman, has also proposed that the Committee undertake a wider review of the Society’s activities and options for the future. In this we are following in the footsteps of the SNR, which has been similarly engaged. Dale introduced this at the AGM, and any member with views should send these to Dale as soon as possible.

One of the driving forces for change is technology. Members will recall our limited experiment with Echoes some years ago. Pongo was perhaps ahead of time, but there is no doubt that Kindle and other e- readers have now taken off, are entirely practical, and will change the way all publishing is done- already more books are sold by Amazon in the US as Kindle downloads, than in print.

As an initial step we will, from around end of the year, make Soundings available as a pdf on the member side of the website. If any member would like to try out Soundings on an e-reader before then, please get in touch, I will email a pdf, or you can download SWS82 from the events section. It would be most useful to have feedback sooner rather than later. Experience to date suggests that landscape (sideways) is easier to read.

We are looking at possibly block booking for the Queens Jubilee parade on the Thames on 3rd June next year. Places on moored up vessels are more likely to be available. It is unlikely to be cheap, but should be very memorable. It would help enormously if you could indicate initial interest asap, as places are likely to be taken up rapidly now that ships can register. Email me at [email protected] or via the web form.

I would also draw your attention to the photo competition run by National Historic Ships, details on p.36, which has some good prizes.

Our best wishes for summer sailing, reading, photography and relaxation

Jonathan Seagrave Next copy date: August 20th 2011

4 FUTURE MEETINGS AND OTHER EVENTS

June 11th AGM, Topsham Exeter

June 20th AFW Admiralty House, Mount Wise, Preparation for the Falklands War ffi Martin Hazell

July 6th RM Barracks Plymouth sees calling notice. Ffi Martin Hazell

September 9th to 11th Maritime History Conference, Exeter. “Health Medicine and Mariners” ffi 01392 723289

October 1st 24th Bere Ferrers Will Stirling – boatbuilding ffi Dale Thomas

8th October Lyme Regis details tbc ffi David Clement

Festivals

29th –31st July Harbour festival

5-7 August Gloucester Harbour festival

September 10-18th Americas Cup World Series 2, Plymouth

20th November Clovelly Herring festival

(Italics indicate an event of interest but not organised directly by the Society)

Confirmation of events will be published either in the next edition or in calling notices for bookings, which will be sent to members at the appropriate time.

5 REPORTS OF MEETINGS

Joint meeting, Waterfront Museum Swansea, 21st May 2011

We met with our sister Society, the West Wales Maritime Heritage Society, some 25 in all, at the Swansea Museum, kindly made available by David Jenkins. Both Societies had displays to enhance mutual awareness.

The meeting started with a welcome from David Jenkins, who outlined the origins of the modern museum, a joint venture between Swansea City Council and the National Museum of Wales. There followed a brief introduction to SWMHS by Dale Thomas, our Chair.

Our first speaker was Prof Huw Bowen, who has researched the East India Co extensively, noting Welsh involvement on the way! He described the career of John Jones, who rose from seaman to become a very successful commander, after a spell in the RN. Huw described in detail the private trading Jones had undertaken from surviving ledgers. It was clear this wasn’t just modest perks, but tonnage trading, which initially at least, must have been financed by outside investors. Successful commanders were not just very good seamen, but entrepreneurs and investors, negotiating with traders in their own right for very substantial deals. The analogies with today’s investment bankers, in both risks and rewards, were very apparent; as was a certain casualness about the rules!

Significant gaps in the record of his career remain, but Jones retired to buy St Helens and become a respected if not always popular figure in Swansea society. This is written up in Maritime Wales.

Rev. David Reed, Chairman of WWMHS, then introduced us to their activities. Unlike SWMHS, they have a base, albeit prone to move, and own some small craft and undertake activities with members’ vessels 6 too. Ultimately, they would like to run a small heritage centre. He was followed by David James, their long time secretary, who illustrated some key events in Milford maritime history with slides and pictures, sometime using his own fine and detailed models. Milford had a history of RN construction, from Napoleonic times to the Pembroke dockyard specialising in royal yachts, building no less than 7 under Victoria; and the Hiei, the first warship for the Imperial Japanese Navy.

After lunch Dale took us on a brief tour of the limestone trade from Gower to N Devon, mentioning some of the last survivors such as Agnes, and the polacca rigs used. He had seen and photo’d some of the last survivors in his youth. Pwll Du was the main source of stone. The trade is widely mentioned, and many kilns of course survive in Devon, but there is a need to bring all the information on this trade together. The next day your Editor visited Pwll Du, looking for the shadows of Chugg family vessels in what must have been a notably risky trade, despite the wide sandy beach. As for the other coves….Gary’s article below gives an account of one of the losses sustained in this trade.

Colin Rees gave us a brief rundown on his next book, Prisoners and Privateers in the Bristol Channel. It will cover both seizures by Barbary pirates and prisoners taken and held e.g. at Dartmoor.

We wound up with Richard Haines, a PhD student at Swansea University, which now has links with the Museum. He gave us some early results of his analysis of ownership of vessels on the Swansea register from 1845 to the early 20th century. Initially diverse, there was a clear pattern of narrowing ownership and specialisation in the role of shipowner as the century progressed. Ownership of vessels on the 64 ths system was locally focussed.

In closing, Dale thanked David Jenkins, not only for his hospitality, but his unfailing helpfulness to members of both Societies engaged on research. Recalling his own youthful enthusiasm, he commended the museum for the hundreds of primary students who could be seen exploring its many interactive displays. He was also pleased to say that both Committees had agreed to donate any surplus to the Museum, in recognition of its hospitality and ongoing work. It was generally agreed that further joint meetings would be well worthwhile.

7 ARTICLES Newspapers on-line

In pushing forward my research relating to Plymouth registered vessels 1814 – 1945 I have, for some time, been using historic newspapers accessible on-line. It occurred to me that information on some of these sources, with an example illustrating the highs and lows, might be of interest to SWMHS members generally.

The first and largest source, “19th Century British Library Newspapers” contains full runs of 48 influential national and regional newspapers and comprises scanned reproductions of the original newspaper articles. Normally there would be a charge for accessing this material, but all of the County Councils and many of the Unitary Authorities in our core area subscribe, so that the service is free for library members. Taking Plymouth as an example, from the Council’s Internet Home Page the route is “Libraries”, “cyberLibrary Home”, “Reference on-line” this reveals a list of subscribing libraries, from which, selecting “Plymouth Library Members” displays a list of library services to which the Council subscribes. The first service is “19th Century British Library Newspapers” and selecting this brings up a field into which your library membership number must be keyed, before a final page allowing a selection between the British Library Newspapers and the Times is displayed. For maritime matters there are some obvious papers to select – the Liverpool Mercury, Herald, or London Daily papers. Local papers, such as the Ipswich Journal, or the Saint Peter Port Star often provide coverage of local events. “The Times Digital Archive 1785 to 1985” – The Times is a valuable reference source over a longer period, but there is a need for news to be a bit more world-shattering to make its pages, than perhaps the pages of The Exeter Flying-Post or The Royal Cornwall Gazette. News often has a business related slant, for example the loss of a vessel may be reported from a marine insurance standpoint.

“London Gazette” – Access to the archives of The London Gazette is available on-line for free, although a charge is made for current material. Gazetted letters from Naval Officers to their superiors, service appointments, prize payments, the award of medals and notices

8 of Government tenders are examples of things which may be found in its pages.

Search the Internet for London Gazette and in its home page select “Search the Archive”.

“Cambrian Newspaper Index” - Swansea Reference Library have made available their index to the Cambrian Newspaper; covering most of the nineteenth century, it contains close to 400,000 entries and is still growing. It can be found at:- http://www.swansea.gov.uk/index.cfm?articleid=5673 and a copying service is provided at reasonable cost. (I was introduced to this site by SWMHS member Michael Guegan.)

In all cases (except the Cambrian) searching appears to be by character recognition and so perseverance -searching all possible combinations of names, dates or facts- may be needed before a result is obtained.

The appropriately named smack Perseverance, built Penzance 1816 as a three masted open boat and registered at Plymouth on 5 June 1857, provides an example of how this source can unlock vital evidence. Her Plymouth register shows that John Holson Bootyman of Plymouth sold her to William Bucknell of Exmouth, boat builder, by Bill of Sale dated 31 May 1858 and he sold her on the same day, to John and Joseph Skinner of Otterton Devon, yeomen.

She was only a small vessel, length 41.7’ breadth 12.7’ depth 7.25’ and 23.65 tons register, but the register is closed “Lost near Tenby about 10 Oct 1858”.

A search of the Plymouth newspapers (not on-line) failed to find any mention of her loss and a search in the on-line sources also failed to find a report, leading to doubts as to the accuracy of the loss date, particularly in view of the use of “about”.

SWMHS member Martin Benn, however, kindly provided vital assistance by locating the following Lloyd’s List reports, which show a vessel lost at an appropriate date and place, which might have been the

9 Perseverance. (While the final report is a pointer, it does not constitute positive proof that the lost vessel was the Perseverance.)

LLOYD’S LIST NUMBER 13891, MONDAY, 11 OCTOBER 1858 “Swansea 10 October: It blew a heavy gale last night from SSW but shifted to the W this morning and moderated.” LLOYD’S LIST NUMBER 13893, WEDNESDAY, 13 OCTOBER 1858 “Tenby 11 October: A sloop apparently of about 30 or 40 tons, coal laden and supposed Welsh, came on shore west of Giltar Head, in the night of 9th October and broke up and the crew drowned. Two bodies have been found plus a letter dated 2 October from Mrs. E. Rolins to her husband Thomas Rolins, a carpenter, who it is supposed was a passenger.”

Giltar Point is a headland lying to the west of Tenby and is separated, by Caldy Sound from Caldy Island so that this and the following report are closely linked geographically and in time, although from the terms of the report there was no evidence washed ashore at the wreck site from which the vessel could be identified. The Liverpool Mercury of 18 October added the important information that the letter was found in the pocket of one of the two bodies that were recovered and was dated “Morton 2 October”

LLOYD’S LIST NUMBER 13895, SATURDAY, 16 OCTOBER 1858 “Tenby 14 October: A small boat painted lead colour inside with the name Perseverance of Plymouth, William Southcombe, has been picked up off Caldy Island.”

These reports provided additional search parameters and a search was renewed in the on-line sources. A number of newspapers were located carrying similar reports each based on Lloyd’s List of 13 October, naming neither the vessel nor Tenby, hence the failure of the first search. However, they did enable comparisons, which brought the addition of the small, but significant, detail from the Liverpool Mercury. A report was also located in the Cambrian although, from the indexing, this appears to be a reiteration of the Lloyd’s List entries.

10 Best of all, the search yielded an immediate and unexpected result for a search against “Rolins”, in Trewman’s Exeter Flying-Post of Thursday 21 October although, unfortunately, that newspaper failed to name the vessel.

“OTTERTON. A MELANCHOLY ACCIDENT - LOSS OF THREE LIVES. A most distressing occurrence has lately occurred here by which several families have been thrown into the deepest sorrow. It appears that a short time since arrangements were made by Messrs. Skinner, farmers, of this place, for burning lime again in the kilns at Lardram [sic] Bay, and accordingly a vessel was procured for the purpose of fetching the necessary limestone and culm; but, unhappily, the craft was not so seaworthy as she aught to have been, and frequently her crew had to pump hard to keep her afloat. About three weeks since the men parted from their families for a trip to Newport for culm and reached that port in safety, though the weather had been most boisterous. The load was taken in, and the return trip commenced on Tuesday, the 5th inst.; but, alas! their homes were never again to be eached, for the tempestuous weather beat the vessel about in the Bristol Channel for the succeeding four days until at length she was cast ashore on the night of Saturday, the 9th a little west of Giltar Head, near Tenby, and all hands (three in number) met with a watery grave. The vessel went entirely to pieces; nevertheless, by dint of great exertions, the Tenby boatman rescued two of the bodies, but the third has not yet been found.

A subscription has been set on foot, under the auspices of the Rev. Mr. Coldridge, the curate of the parish, Mr. Pullen, surgeon, and Mr. Carter, the Poor-law guardian, on behalf of the bereaved families; and should any of our readers feel disposed to contribute, the above-named gentleman will be glad to receive subscriptions. The names of those who are lost are -- William Thurscombe, who leaves a delicate wife and three children; Thomas Rolins, leaving a wife and an infant a fortnight old; John May, leaving two orphan girls.” (British Library Newspaper Collection)

11 Despite the fact that the article does not name the vessel lost west of Giltar Head, it does provide positive proof that she was the Perseverance, as her registered owners were John and Jacob Skinner; the farmers who had planned to re-introduce lime-burning at Ladram Bay, which, with its red sandstone sea-stacks, lies a short distance east of Otterton. Thomas Rolins’ body, identified by his wife’s note, provides the essential link between Lloyd’s List of 13 October and the Exeter Flying-Post of the 21st.From Roz Hickman, the on-line Parish Clerk for Otterton, I have learned that Thomas Rolins correct name was in fact Robbins; it seems probable that the letter in his pocket, gave Thomas the glad news of the birth of his first child, the “infant a fortnight old” of the Exeter Flying Post, a girl named Rosa, who he did not live to see or hold. And the master’s name on the stern of the boat found off Caldy Island is the correct name. (For further information concerning “UK Online Parish Clerks” see http://www.onlineparishclerks.org.uk/ - I have twice used this network and enjoyed excellent help.)

If any member is aware of any similar on-line sources of newspaper material it would be very useful to know of it; particularly if it relates to a local coastal newspaper. There are of course many secondary sources on the Internet, of lesser or greater accuracy, The Island Register - P.E.I. Ship Info Index! under the heading “PEI Maritime History and Passenger Lists” “Shipping Notes, Disasters, Shipbuilding” contains some excellent information extracted from Prince Edward Island newspapers. This material is unusual in that it relates to the early days of settlement in the island, with an environment far different to our own. In it will be found accounts of large teams of horses dragging vessels for several miles over ice to a launch site and of the ice-boats developed to cross Northumberland Strait between the island and the New Brunswick mainland during the winter months. I recommend this site to members, both for research and as an interesting read.

Gary Hicks

12 REVIEWS

Closing Down Sail - Being An A-Z Listing Of The Smacks, Ketches, Schooners, Brigs Etc On The UK And Irish Registers On And After 1st. January 1900 To The Mid-1960’s W. Martin Benn ISBN: Not Given. Published By: W Martin Benn, 2, Lonsdale Mews, Croston Road, Lostock Hall, Preston, PR5 5NH £22.00 Including Postage Hardback, A4 size, Over 3,000 entries

Martin Benn, well-known to members of Society, has been fascinated by the coastal sail trading vessels since the 1950’s. This monumental work has been over 35 years in the making and is the product of prodigious work and first hand research by its author, who single- handedly explored the source records and the museums, libraries and archives deposited around the United Kingdom and Ireland to achieve this exceptionally valuable work of reference, which for every person with an interest in the last coastwise sail trading, should be in their library. This has clearly been a labour of love for its author.

The book opens with an Introduction, setting out the basis of information recorded and the principal sources of information, with clear explanatory notes for each, viz: Custom House Ship Registers, Board Of Trade Wreck Returns, Crew Lists, Lloyd’s List, Lloyd’s Registers, Mercantile Navy Lists, and the Mersey Docks & Harbour Board Wreck Clearance. A full explanation is also provided of the information included for each vessel, which sets out the final owners.

The book lists alphabetically over 3,000 vessels, many of which are the subject of photographs in various collections around the country. It is interesting to note in Martin Benn’s aptly titled “Motivation” that 1630 of these were wrecked, foundered or went missing, a further 237 were lost in collisions and 159 to German submarines.

13 Over 2/3rds were lost by violent means! In addition to those crews, nearly 2,000 crew members were drowned or lost by enemy action, to say nothing of those lost by accidents at sea - this was a risky occupation. In 2011, perhaps surprisingly, three survive in sea-going condition - Kathleen & May, Irene, Bessie Ellen, with Garlandstone afloat at Morwellham, and Result and De Wadden undergoing restoration. The book does not include the many Thames Spritsail Barges or many of the fishing vessels that did not carry cargoes.

As an example: Abeja, ON81982, built 1881, at Littlehampton, Sussex, by Harvey, Schooner, Tons 174tg,149tn; Dims.102.8 x 23.1 x 12.2. Registered Exeter 1893/3. Final Owner William C Phillips, Polkyth, St. Austell, Cornwall, plus 11 others locally. Fate: 9 March 1917 from Granville, France for Fowey in ballast, when 20 miles SW off Start Point , S Devon, taken by German submarine and sunk under gunfire, crew saved. Was built for Spanish owners and her name in English translates as “Bee” - or a “busy-body”!

There are two appendices, the first covering “Red Herrings” And the second covering the 27 German vessels requisitioned on the outbreak of war with Germany in 1914.

Altogether this is a VERY worthy book which I feel is likely to become the Standard Reference for these vessels in the years to come. Martin Benn is to be congratulated on a first class publication.

David. B. Clement

14 Dynasty of Engineers.-The Stevensons and Bell Rock. Roland Paxton. Edinburgh: Northern Lighthouse Heritage Trust., 2011. ISBN 978- 0- 9567209-0-0.120 pp. £20.

This book is nicely produced on good quality papers with sharp illustrations of old material. Unfortunately, it is a potpourri- a Preface, an Introduction, and a Foreward by different people, saying much the same things; then 7 articles from the Oxford Dictionary of National Biography (2004), starting with Thomas Smith, an Edinburgh blacksmith (1752 -1815) who diversified into lighthouses and light improvement. He married Robert Stevenson ‘s (1772 to 1850) mother and Robert married his daughter. The other five biographies are all of Stevensons, ending with Alan (1891 -1971).

These accounts, being stand-alone articles, overlap somewhat and are readily available. The rest of the book concerns Bell Rock and clarifies that John Rennie was clearly in overall charge and that the Stevensons, starting with Robert, airbrushed him out of the narrative, as he was well aware might happen. In a letter to James Boulton, 12 March, 1814, (Appendix A), he warns Boulton against letting Stevenson anywhere near his factory, as he will attempt to “entice away some of your Principal Workmen”; and states “I have no doubt the whole Merit of the Bell Rock Lighthouse will, if it has not already been assumed by Him”.

The book fizzles out into a list of the lighthouses the Stevensons built – covered by Bella Bathurst’s The Lighthouse Stevensons(1999); and some colour photographs of a few of the lighthouses they built, with a picture of a solar panel on Fair Isle North. This book seems to have been designed by a committee, whose members wanted different things in it. A camel is a horse ---- comes to mind. At £20, only for the very serious (and reasonably well off) lighthouse material collectors.

Mike Bender

15 William Stone-Hero of the Fleet William Stone/Anne and Michael Davidson. Mainstream Publishing 7 Albany St Edinburgh. paperback £7.99

William Stone was a stoker in the RN in both world wars, and lived to the remarkable age of 108, latterly becoming a celebrity survivor. Personal accounts from boiler room men are rare, not least because the combat casualty rate was high. His autobiography, drawn from his notes and discussions, edited with additional background information on topics of the time, is thus unusual, apart from the obviously genial character of the man himself.

From a Devon farming family, but with brothers in the RN, he joined in 1918 and was in training at the end of WW I. In WWII he had a very active service, starting in the minesweeper HMS Salamander, and his first taste of action was at Dunkirk, where he made three trips. Later he was in North Atlantic convoys and an early Arctic convoy, then on the cruiser HMS Newfoundland in the Med, for the Pantelleria and Sicily landings, surviving a torpedo hit.

Perhaps the most interesting part of the story for me, however, was his account of the year long Empire Cruise on HMS Hood in 1923/4. This was a “show the flag” exercise that would have a modern PR man in transports of delight. The ships of the flotilla were visited by almost 2 million people, including a sizable part of the population of Australian and New Zealand. Their crews were doubtless selected, but there was excellent behaviour and a warm welcome everywhere.

William’s relationships with his peers and officers were good. Early on, he had taken up barbering to supplement his pay. He obviously inspired confidence, as one unconcerned officer mentioned to William that he was cutting his hair whilst drunk, and William had clearly been too drunk to even remember ! The accounts of crew visits to local landmarks reminds us that the Navy was indeed the way to see the world before cheap travel.

16 His post navy life as a barber, Mason and supporter of the British Legion, and increasingly a celebrity, is briefly documented in the final chapters.

The book is an easy read, the interleaved background sections are italicised and easy to skip for those familiar with the topic. Some tend to wander beyond the immediate background. The book has a useful timeline, descriptions of ships, and letters from Prince Andrew and Admiral Jonathon Band. He was indeed an ordinary man in extraordinary times. Recommended.

Jonathan Seagrave

HMS Newfoundland (credit Wikipedia)

17 BOOKS RECEIVED

[Some of these books may be reviewed in future editions ]

Memories of the Cornish Fishing Industry Sheila Bird £ 8.99

Sailing Pilots of the Bristol Channel Peter Stuckey Redcliffe press 184pp. ISBN: 978-1-906593-64-3 Softback £27.95

Long time member Pete Stuckey’s classic book has been reprinted. We hope to carry an updated review of this latest edition next time.

From the Westcountry to the World: How Westcountry Shipowners established a leading Marine Insurance Company. Helen Doe

Member Helen Doe wrote this book see letter below. A few copies may be available to members free of charge ( ffi see letter).

Lightning Strikes- How Ships Are Protected From Lightning Hugh Cannell Book Guild publishing, Pavilion View 19 New Rd Brighton, BN1 1UF ISBN 978-1-84624-520-6 pp 202 £ 17.99

The Grand Fleet DK Brown Seaforth, £16.99 and Warrior to Dreadnought DK Brown Seaforth, £16.99 Both the above are reprints of Brown’s detailed survey of British naval construction in the years up to the climax at Jutland.

18 LETTERS NOTES AND NEWS

Heritage Open Days 2011

Heritage Open Days is Britain’s number one heritage event. Last year’s event was the most successful in its 16-year history. More than 46,000 participants opened up and staged a record 4,400 venues and activities, jointly attracting an estimated 1.1 million visits over four days in September.

In the past very few vessels have got involved with Heritage Open Days. National Historic Ships would like to see more vessel owners or associations participating. In addition, if you own a boatyard or repair facility in a historic setting, it could be an opportunity to showcase your work. NHS are happy to help co-ordinate historic vessel input with English Heritage, so please send us your ideas or contact the organisers directly.

This year is Thursday 8 to Sunday 11 September, ffi please visit www.heritageopendays.org.uk, or NHS

[ In Bristol the Underfall yard is usually open and makes a fascinating visit, as do the Redcliffe caves. Ed ]

19 The Purton Hulks

Paul Barnett writes :-

Stroud Member of Parliament, Neil Carmichael chaired an open public meeting in order to discuss the future of one of Gloucestershire’s most famous maritime monuments.

This came in the wake of British Waterways’ recent adoption of the site which is now formally recognised by the nations heritage governing authority English Heritage, as the largest ships graveyard in the country; and its designation in 2010, of the site’s last remaining Kennet built canal boat Harriett, as a vessel of great archaeological significance and maritime importance.

The meeting included representatives from English Heritage, Natural , and British Waterways, elected local politicians and residents, and was intended to discuss adequate protection of the Gloucestershire time capsule. The discussion was very unsatisfactory, but BW agreed to meet and discuss the site management plan that should include the surrounding area, with the final document going for further scrutiny at that level. At least they are talking.

For further details please contact 07833143231 or see www.friendsofpurton.or.uk

Swash Wreck on Television

Britain’s Secret Seas BBC2, featured this wreck, which we heard about from David Parham at our meeting last November ( South West Soundings 81). The close up underwater photography in HD was impressive.

[ If you become aware of any upcoming programme with maritime interest, let me know so I can flag them up. Ed]

20 HERITAGE BOAT NEWS

As summer approaches (or was that it in April?) two old ships have been on the move. Alas, the news on Kathleen & May is not good for those of us in the South West, because she can no longer be seen in her home port of Bideford.

She sailed away on 18th May to a new home in Liverpool and it looks highly unlikely that she will return to the Torridge in the foreseeable future. As members will know, since she was restored by Steve Clarke and his dedicated team, valiant efforts have been made over the years to sustain her at Bideford. As we also know Steve found it necessary a few years ago to put the ship on the market since he could no longer shoulder the heavy financial burden. Although no firm buyer has appeared it was hoped that “something would turn up”, to quote Mr. Micawber, and the Friends of the ship have continued to seek local support. We, in the SWMHS, have also lent support by writing to the local Council urging official recognition of the importance of the historic vessel to Bideford.

Regrettably, though, all these efforts have come to naught and it appears that, despite many words being printed in the local press, action by the district council has been singularly lacking with the result that the ship has now gone to a new home where it is understood that she will be used for sail training and exhibition purposes.

Although the ship should benefit from this new lease of life, for which we must draw some comfort, this outcome is a poor reward indeed for the people who have lavished so much time and effort into restoring her, maintaining her and sailing her. One wonders whether regrets are now beginning to be felt in Bideford for a lost opportunity to retain such an historic ship, particularly since the town has such a rich and varied maritime history.

Thankfully there are better tidings on our other historic coastal trader. After the miraculous restoration from the ashes, Irene has taken on a new lease of life with a full programme of sailing planned for this year.

21 Already she has been on a pioneering voyage to the Gironde where she was loaded with a cargo of Bordeaux wines by the well known shipper, Laithwaites, and she brought that cargo into London, sailing up the Thames and through the raised spans of Tower Bridge into the Pool of London to an enthusiastic welcome, both for her and the wine!

During the next few months it is planned to sail to Whitehaven, Belfast and Waterford for the start of the Tall Ships race at the beginning of July. A planned visit to the Bristol Harbour festival at the end of July will be followed by an appearance at the similar festival at Gloucester in August and it is possible that another wine trip may be fitted in before the winter.

It is so good to see the dedication and tenacity of Leslie Morrish and his band of enthusiasts finally paying off after such a struggle against the odds over the last few years.

Visit www.ireness.com for the sailing programme and history.

Colin Green

HMS Caroline

HMS Caroline, previously a RNR vessel in Belfast, and the last surviving Jutland ship, has been taken over by the National Museum of the Royal Navy. It is thought she may move to . SNR are likely to be involved with her upkeep. BBC News

WWI warship logs to improve climate forecasts

The oldweather.log project asks volunteers to transcribe logs of some 200 + British WWI warships to add additional data from the sea to land based records. Many are now transcribed ,and incidentally, the logs are now much more accessible. ffi http://www.oldweather.org/

22 update 12/6/11

Back in September and October of last year the picture looked a little bleak for Shieldhall. Dry dock was due in April/May. The cost of dry docking had been estimated at £80,000 but we had hardly any funds available. By the middle of March, though, we were in sight of the target and spirits rose.

Thanks to generous support by many private people – not least the members of the SWMHS – together with organisations both large and small, enough money was collected to give us the confidence to book our slot in the dry dock at Falmouth for the middle of May. Sailing from on Sunday May 15th.we had a good passage to Falmouth and entered the dock the following afternoon. The ship seemed to welcome the chance to move gently to the swell once again.

The docking achieved all its objectives with but one exception. She was due to sail back to the Solent on Saturday 21st. but on the Thursday evening I was alarmed to get a phone call from our Senior Master to let me know that on closer inspection of the hull structure below the Engine Room plates extensive corrosion of the frames had been revealed. He went on to say that after consultation with the Marine and Coast Guard Agency Surveyor it was confirmed that passenger sailings would have to be suspended until repairs could be carried out. Spirits plummeted.

Now that she is back in her home port appointments have been made with the MCA Surveyor concerned and a detailed review of the work that must be carried out is in preparation. It is planned that within a short time we shall be in a position to obtain quotations and to know more exactly the financial size of the problem. Although an accurate estimate has yet to be developed we can already see that probably a six figure sum will be needed - quite a daunting prospect!

Do not listen to the doom mongers, though. Be assured that our team of volunteers is determined that, come what may, this fine old ship will be returned to sound condition and to passenger service just as soon as possible. Watch this space!

Doug Brodie Vice Chairman

23 Stirling and Son write :-

We have been busy with dinghies this year having already built six since January. The dinghies are built of Mahogany on Oak with Copper and Bronze fastenings and have name carving and cove line inlaid with Gold Leaf. Will and Sara will have a stand at the Southampton Boat Show. Whilst the dinghies are being built at one end of the shed, the rest of the building is dominated by Integrity, a 20 ton Gentleman’s Cutter of circa 1880. The hull planking has been seasoning for two years now and will be fitted over the summer. The deck has been completed and is being caulked. The deck planking is both tapered and swept so that there are the same amount of planks midships as well as at the bow and stern. As a result of the tapering of each plank those outboard follow the covering board whilst those inboard follow the centreline; a typical detail of Victorian aesthetics with little regard for labour. ‘Perhaps that is why it died out’, wryly commented one of the shipwrights.[ Note: See photo p.39. Will has recently joined the Committee and plans are in hand for a Society visit to his workshop in the autumn . Ed ]

Morwenna is again entered in to the Fastnet - with a crew of 12. We want to beat the Jolie Brise Record of 6 days, 2 hours, and will have to push hard to do it. We also want to sail to Marseille in Sep and are looking for crew. This might be of interest to members. Ffi [email protected]

Another Original Bristol Channel Pilot Cutter has been found.

The Vivacious - originally known as Clarice - has been located in the South of France. It was known that she had been sold in the 1950’s to an American owner but nothing had been heard about her since. Thanks to Stephen Mohan (the owner of Carlotta) contact has been made with the current owner’s agent who has sent much information including photographs. After five years in American ownership she was bought by a French journalist who sailed her with his family followed by another owner who kept her on the French Riviera. She is ketch rigged and has recently undergone a restoration.

Bristol Pilot Cutter association website http://bcpcoa.com/news.html

24 Helen Doe writes :-

Recently I was asked to research the history of a London based marine insurance club. Steamship Mutual is one of the top insurers in the world. Just 12 Clubs, as they are known, insure over 90% of today’s world shipping in the area of liability insurance. One of the other clubs is the West of England Club, established originally by Holman’s of Topsham. It was a fascinating opportunity to find out more about this subject so I was pleased to start the research, not realising how close to my previous research it would be.

Mutual marine insurance is where shipowners come together to insure each others’ ships and share risks and it has been in existence for centuries. Originally it was confined to regular trades, such as coal and timber, and developed from ‘the confidence which shipowners entertained in each other’. The groups were small, everyone knew each other and an annual premium was paid and that became the fund out of which claims were settled with further calls on members should the need arise. Administration costs were kept low, often with just a part time secretariat, and the clubs operated on a non profit basis. There were many such clubs based around the British coast in the early nineteenth century.

Initially these only insured the hull of the ship, but during the nineteenth century public attitudes about risk began to change as a result of high profile railway accidents. This led to calls for individuals or their relatives to be able to sue for damages and liabilities increased, particularly at a time of increased numbers of emigrant ships. Additionally with greater numbers of ships, and the change to iron and steam and larger vessels, port authorities became increasingly concerned about damage to infrastructure and wreck removal. In 1855 the first Protection and Indemnity Clubs (P&I) were formed and these, again, were mutual clubs and by the beginning of the twentieth century employers’ liability also was included. Today environmental liability is one of the key areas.

Steamship was established in 1909 but had its roots in a slightly older club formed in 1906 to insure some of the last of the sailing ships. As I ran my eye down the list of ships entered in 1906 I recognised many 25 ships well known to SWMHS members, such as the Rhoda Mary, ES Hocken, Helena Tregenza, Little Gem and Silver Spray. Owner names, too, were very familiar; Charles and Frank Nurse, William Kellow, Albert Westcott, Alexander Johns and Edward Stephens. All of this was surprising since the Steamship management had firmly believed its roots lay in Thames sailing barges. Further research established why this London club had such local links. The first members of the Committee were Charles Nurse and Alexander Johns of Gloucester and Charles was to be the Chairman of the club for many years taking the train up to London on a regular basis for meetings. Other local owners closely involved in it were Albert Westcott of Plymouth and Theophilius William Couch from Pentewan.

Famous ships insured included the ‘Q’ ship, Result, and the Ceres built in 1811 and lost off North Devon in 1936. Two ships still with us today that were on the original insurance list are the Bessie Ellen and the Irene of Bridgwater. Other early ships insured included the last of the Ashburner fleet from Barrow in Furness and also the Charlotte Kilner from Hull. The Charlotte Kilner, whose master/owner was John Raddings, provided a link with an even earlier club. John’s grandson, David Raddings, kindly provided an even earlier beginning for the Club as she was originally insured with the Gloucester and Severn Estuary Mutual Marine Insurance Society in 1904. This small club run by Nurse and Johns included many Gloucester trows but also ships that traded in the Severn such as the Charlotte Kilner. So a small Gloucester marine insurance club grew eventually into one of the world’s largest P & I clubs and it also included many other small local clubs such as the Braunton Shipowners. The full story includes the Spanish Civil War, the hijiacking of the Achille Lauro and much more. The book includes some excellent illustrations.

For those who are interested there are copies available on enquiry to Linda McDonald, Steamship Insurance Management Services Limited, Tel: 020 7650 6649 (direct) or Email: [email protected]

Finally I am happy to supply the list of ships entered in 1906 to the club and the list of ships insured with the Gloucester and Severn Society in 1904. Please contact me on [email protected]

26 WEBERY

Website Updates Book reviews As there are several book reviews that have not yet appeared in SW Soundings but are already on the website a new category in the Edition Index “For print publication at a later date” has been introduced.

Notifying change of address etc. Our new membership secretary Britt Zerbe is now keeping the membership list updated. Britt can be contacted via the Contact us page on the website or by email to [email protected]

Passwords Members have access to all the material on the website via the all- members’ password, a reminder of which was sent with the AGM agenda (see “Agenda Item 8 Proposed Constitution Change”). The only exception is the online membership list which for enhanced security requires a personal username and password. Britt Zerbe can issue usernames and passwords to any member on request.

New link Lloyds List can now be searched online at www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/lloydslist The search covers 1740 to 1837, it does not include normal shipping movements, only the marine news section. Search can be on Personal name, Ship name, Notes, Location, and range of dates.

Research Enquiries on the Forum Shipping postcards SWMHS member Roger Hare writes: “Are any members of the society collectors of shipping postcards? I collect marine art postcards of liners and commercial shipping from the 20th century. Do any readers of this forum have the same interest? If so, I would be happy to discuss exchange of such cards. I do have some photographic postcards also, of varying vintages and would be happy to discuss exchanging such cards on an equitable basis for the (usually) more ´valuable´ artist drawn cards.”

27 Information on the Thomas Edwin Non-member Chris writes: “I am trying to find out the history of the Thomas Edwin built in Gunnislake Cornwall by Emmanual Crocker on the river Tamar. I have my boat stored where the old Goss ship yard once stood and have a drawing of the Thomas Edwin but just cannot find any info and would like to piece together some history of this vessel and of her builder as I have a fondness of this part of the river.”

SWMHS member Gary Hicks replied: “The Thomas Edwin was registered at Plymouth 28 Feb 1867 with Crocker holding a controlling interest - the register and re-registration can be found at the Plymouth & West Devon Record Office or transcribed on my CD see my web-site http://www.plymouthmerchantships.info/. The transcribed register also contains a report of her loss in 1909. Since publication I have continued research and found that the Thomas Edwin went on the island of Anticosti some time in November 1867; her crew apparently getting ashore but perishing in the winter. She was found in the spring of 1868 and refloated. I have seen it said that it was Crocker himself who sailed her back, but haven’t found this in any contemporary report.”

Chris replied: “Many thanks Gary. The picture I have is what seems to be a pencil drawing to scale with a lot of age to it, with the text ‘Thomas Edwin built at Gunnislake by Emmanual Crocker’ but that is all I could find out but will have a look at your web site. Had the picture for about 5-6 yrs hanging in my garage.”

South West WW2 Boatbuilders Non-member Don Smith writes: “My wife’s father Allan Stubbings was involved with as many as 10 of the boatyards of the South West during WW2. He was based at the yard opposite Reeves timber wharf. Along with Frank Curtis, they produced many minesweepers. I am doing research work on the wartime work of the yards & would be grateful for any information to help in my researches. My contact details are [email protected]”

28 Comments on the Forum

Rope Caliper Gauge and Wooden Rule incorporating Slide Rule

(Article from SW Soundings No.75 Mar 2009)

Non-member Des Pawson writes: “Your second rule is almost certainly a Mast Makers Rule. You may see more in The Rule Book by Jane & Mark Rees, Astragal Press 2010. Page 184 has 2 illustrations and both the numbering is from right to left . There is also a description as to how they would have been used, different but similar on pages 182/3. could try scanning the pages. [email protected]

SWMHS member Gary Hicks, the author of this article replied: Des Many thanks for your response to my enquiry. I will obtain the book you refer to through my local library and look forward immensely to reading of the working need which inspired its unusual design. Re- uniting the artifact with its history has proved fascinating and it will be gratifying to inform the person who so generously gave it to me of that history.

29 From John Richardson, author of ‘A Deck Boys Diary’ (Reviewed in SW Soundings No.62 Feb 2005). “Thank you for your comments Mr Puckett. No I did not finish as a master mariner, but as a CPO in the South African navy. However, thanks to my training at the sea school where navigation studies were my favourite topic, my son is presently serving as a master. John R.”

[ The last paragraph of the review is: One final reservation, I suspect, born out of the author’s modesty and self effacing style, we were told that he left his last ship in 1990, I suspect as Master, to retire, and it would have been nice to know briefly what happened to him after finishing his “First Trip”. ]

The Naval Historical Branch (Article from SW Soundings No.64 Oct 2005) A member of the Naval Historical Branch has told us that the telephone numbers previously given in this article are now well out of date. Postal enquiries to the address given in that article are welcomed but contact by any other method will not be possible until a re-organisation currently underway is complete.

The Garlandstone (Article from SW Soundings No.49 Oct 2000) Non-member John Bradbeer writes: “I guess that I would be one of the younger people to remember the Garlandstone at first hand as a working vessel in the late 1950s and early 1960s. I grew up in Barnstaple and remember the Garlandstone on Rolle Quay, up the river Yeo, where she usually moored. She and Rolle Quay disappeared at about the same time. Strictly speaking, of course, Rolle Quay is still there but closed to shipping these last forty years and more. My father worked in the Treasurer’s Department of Barnstaple Borough Council and from his office window he could look out across North Walk to Rolle Quay. He also acted as the clerk to the Port of Barnstaple and so handled the mooring dues and the pilotage fees. I have to say that this was a pretty minor part of his work by the early 1960s. It was lovely to see the Garlandstone again at Morwelham and I also have fond memories of a great day on Skomer with the puffins and looking out to the original Garlandstone. Many thanks for an article that brings back such a flood of memories.

30 Upkeep of the Garlandstone at Morwellham (Letter from SW Soundings No.64 Oct 2005) From a former employee at Morwellham: “She is owned by the quay now or that is my information. Garlandstone is in a bad way, below the waterline the frames are really rotten. The new owners of the site are fine but I don’t think have any real interest in her or her history. A fuss needs to be made by people they have to listen to, as anything else will not cause any action I fear. It would be a crime for her to be lost, she’s unique.”

Are we to lose Kathleen & May? (Letter from SW Soundings No.70 Oct 2007) Non-member Elizabeth Savage writes: “I have photographs of late 60’s, when she was sitting on sand banks off Bideford, being bought at that time by Trevor ? who had put his life savings into restoring her. Unfortunately he ran out of money but I shall always remember seeing the wonderful interior and having tea on board. I was a student then, involved with a local journalist doing articles about K &M. 2-3 years ago I had the opportunity of visiting K&M,and sail across the Torridge on her after she had been over-wintered, before putting to sail for the summer. I knew she might have to be sold, and would be interested to know if she is still afloat off Bideford Quay please, and is she still owned by Steve Clarke? He had done a wonderful restoration job on her, and it was the first time I had seen her with full sails, a tearful reunion after many years!” [see also p.22]

31 Training Ketch Tectona [The Tectona Trust website is www.tectona.org.uk] From non-member Gordon Moore: “Hope I can shed a bit more light on the subject of the damage in France. I was just finishing my phase 1 in Plymouth as an engineer cadet in 1971 when we sailed the Tectona down the coast of Cornwall for a very memorable week. I believe this was one of the trips after she had been repaired after the damage in France and we were told that this was caused by some one not slackening off mooring ropes on a receding tide. I also remember seeing a photo of a sister ship in a pub near the harbour in Mevagissey with a very similar name. Glad to see the boat is still at sea and doing charity work with the Tectona Trust.”

From non-member Peter Ralph: “I spent 2 separate, very memorable weeks on board in 1967 and 1969. Then, 2 weeks ago on the day after the Royal Wedding she appeared offshore at Challaborough, near Burgh Island with what seemed like a crew of cadets! Long live Tectona and all who sailed in her!!”

Dave Hills [email protected]

32 WELCOME ABOARD

A very warm welcome to all new members. New /rejoined members from 1.1.2010 to 28 5.2011

Ms Nikki Alford Bodmin Mr RW Allen Cardiff Mr J.K. Atherton Wellington Mr & CA Ball Bude Mrs Mr M Bosher Teddington Mrs Hilary Bosher Falmouth Mr Hugh Cannell Gestingthorpe Mr Richard Clarke Truro Mr David Clement Exeter Miss J. Creeke Sidmouth Cdr. C. W. Crichton, O.B.E. Yelverton

Mr Richard Eggleton Oxford Barbara Fenton Tavistock Mr Roy Fenton London Mr Peter G. Ferguson Barnstaple Mr William A Forster St Albans Mr Brian French Chesterfield Mr Mike Grose Truro Mr Roger Hare Brixham Mr Nigel Harris Gloucester Prof. Neil Hawke Brighton

33 Stephanie Haxton Penzance

Mr Tony Haynes Tewkesbury Mr Max Hemingway Stockport Mr Peter Holt Plymouth Mr Malcolm Johnson Lerwick Mr Mick Kightley Northampton Mr R.S. King Kingsbridge Mr Richard Larn St Mary’s Ms Laura Loudon-Griffiths Sidmouth

Mr Sean Lynott Rochester Mr DW McClaughlin Exeter Mr Daniel Milner Bagshot Mr Herbert Nodder Plymouth Mr Philip Northcott Exeter Dr RH Osborne Bristol Stephanie Pearn Yeovil

Mr DJ Penfold Newnham on Severn

Mr Andy Plumbly Tinglewick Mr John Pollock Truro Ms Anne Pond Falmouth Mr William Pratt Totnes Mr Alan Puddicombe Plymouth Mr Michael Richards Falmouth Bernie Richardson Exeter Carol Scott Port Talbot Mr Mathew Searle Mr Anthony J Sharp Gunnislake

Mr A. M. Southwood Bicknoller

34 Mrs Monica Spencer Weston-Super-Mare

Susan Startin Exeter Mr George Stephenson Exeter Mr & Mrs Stirling Tavistock Mr Mike Studden Gloucester Mr William R Taylor Exeter

Joanna Thomas Bristol Mr Chris Thomas Kenilworth Mr Tony Tibbles Gunnislake Mr Charlie Tolcher Torquay Mr G. D. C. Tudor Bude Mr Eric Voysey Exeter Mr John S Wallis Penzance Mr David Webb Plymouth Mr David Wheeler Morbihan Mr M. V. Williams Bishopswood Dr Britt Zerbe Exeter

IN MEMORIAM

The Society regrets it has to record the passing of Joanna Greenlaw. We send our condolences to family and friends on their loss. 35 Photography Competition 2011

After the success of the photography competition in its first year, National Historic Ships has decided to run it again in 2011 in partnership with Classic Boat magazine. We received over 350 entries in 2010, but are hoping to exceed that number this year and are pleased that our sponsors continue to support us with even more great prizes to be won.

We continue to encourage entries from all those with an interest in maritime heritage, including school children, historic vessel owners, maritime enthusiasts and those with knowledge of traditional skills or nautical techniques. National Historic Ships is offering a monetary prize of £1,000 for the overall competition winner, to be spent on a theme or activity involving a vessel from the National Register of Historic Vessels. This year, for the first time, we are also able to offer a Beken image for the winner of Category A, whilst the digital cameras awarded to the successful school entrants will be the latest models tailored to your age group. All short-listed entrants will be invited to our prestigious national awards ceremony onboard HMS Belfast, who have generously waived their hire fee.

Browse the competition pages to find out more about the competition, search for a historic vessel in your local area, view our judging panel or see featured entries. The 2011 competition will run from 01 April to 31 August 2011 and entries should be submitted via the online entry form. Please also visit our Flickr support page and search for the group called 'National Historic Ships - Photo Competition 2011' to become a member! http://www.nationalhistoricships.org.uk/pages/photography- competition-2011.html

36 UPCOMING EVENTS

WORLD SHIP SOCIETY MEETINGS

( See SWS82 for summer events This list is an advance autumn programme for your diary ) We do not yet have full details for all the autumn programme but visitors from the SWMHS are always welcome.

BRISTOL Venue and dates not yet advised; contact secretary, Arthur Clark , on 0117-956- 8657 or e-mail [email protected] for more information

CORNWALL Meets 7.30pm at Athenaeum Club, Kimberley Place, FALMOUTH TR11 3QL: Frid 9 Sep: Dagebull to Duisberg - Bernard McCall of ‘Coastal Shipping’ magazine Frid 14 Oct: ‘Vanguard’ to Trident, RN 1945 – 2011, - Dr Richard Osborne (Chairman, WSS) Frid 11 Nov: Krispen’s travels - Krispen Atkinson (Lloyd’s/Fairplay) Frid 9 Dec: Xmas buffet (commences 6.15pm) plus support programme

DORSET Meets second Saturday of each month from September, 2.15 pm, Broadstone Community Centre, 21 Dunyeats Road, BROADSTONE (near Poole) BH18 9NF. Contact secretary, Mrs Marion Browning, on 01202 694338 or e-mail [email protected]

GLOUCESTER Meets second Monday of each month from September, 7.30pm, at The Pop-In Nursery, Barnwood Road, Hucclecote, GLOUCESTER, GL3 3ES. Contact Secretary, Malcolm Bell, on 01452-714167

PLYMOUTH Meets 7.30pm at Plymouth Naval Base Museum; for security reasons, you must contact Secretary, Ian Denton, on 01822-832871 or e-mail [email protected] in advance : Tues 2 Aug: Cruising on ‘Ocean Countess’ – Ian Denton Tues 6 Sep: Photos fromS W Image Bank – Stacey Dyer Tues 4 Oct: Interesting nautical facts recounted by Ted Willey Tues 2 Nov: Ex- naval small craft - Tony Holtham Tues 6 Dec: Xmas buffet and quiz by Trevor Fredrick

37 SWANSEA Meets first Friday of each month from September, 7pm, at The Environment Centre, Pier Street, SWANSEA, SA1 1RY. Contact Capt Tony Breach on 01656-890664 or e-mail [email protected]

TORBAY Meets 7.30pm at Corinthian Yacht Club, Eastcliff Walk , TEIGNMOUTH TQ14 8TA: Tues 9 Aug: Annual Fun Quiz Tues 13 Sep: Riversea (low air-draft coasters) update – Chris Cheetham Tues 11 Oct: The art of the postcard painter - David Eeles Tues 8 Nov: 2011 update – Roger Musselwhite Tues 13 Dec: Terneuzen 2011 – David Walker

SS Shieldhall

Below is a summary of the provisional programme. Please confirm dates with the trust first as the ship requires repair work before sailing ( see Notes and News ) . Contributions welcomed.

August Thu 11th 11:00 Cowes Week 16:00 £29.00 Fri 12th 18:30 Cowes Fireworks. View the spectacular firework display and listen to our resident Jazz band, the Shieldhall Stompers. 22:59 £33.00 Mon 15th 10:00 Southampton to Poole. 16:00 £22.00 Fri 19th 10:00 From Poole Town Quay to view the spectacular Bournemouth Air Festival. 19:00 £36.00 Sat 20th 10:00 From Poole Town Quay to view the spectacular Bournemouth Air Festival. 19:00 £36.00 Sun 21st 10:00 From Poole Town Quay to view the spectacular Bournemouth Air Festival. 19:30 £36.00 Mon 23rd 10:00 Poole to Southampton. 5 Hours 16:00 £22.00

September Sat 3rd 12:00 Merchant Navy Day cruise. Celebrate our Merchant Navy that made Britain Great. Old seadogs can bring along their discharge books for signing.17:00 £29.00 Sun 4th 12:00 Memorial cruise for those Merchant seamen that gave their lives for our country, in peace and war.17:00 £29.00 Sun 18th 11:00 A gentle cruise down the Eastern Solent towards Ryde and Bembridge. 16:00 £29.00 ffi http://www.ss-shieldhall.co.uk/ For all bookings call 0844 357 2329 and leave a message or send an email to [email protected]

The Cornish Maritime Trust will visit many festivals this summer with its flotilla of small craft. Public day sails in Softwing will again take place from NMM Falmouth on selected days. http://www.cornishmaritimetrust.org

38 Will Stirling’s cutter Integrity under construction. Photo W Stirling. [On my Xmas list ! Ed]

39 SOUTH WEST MARITIME HISTORY SOCIETY Registered Charity No. 289141 (Updated 12.6.11) Chairman Dale Thomas ` 4 Clear View, The Narth, Monmouth, NP25 4QH Tel: 01600 860311 Email: [email protected]

Vice Chairman Martin Hazell 124 Molesworth Road Stoke Plymouth Devon PL3 4AH Tel. 07941 603097 /01752 550768 E-mail: [email protected]

Editor Maritime S.W David Clement & Monographs The Holt, Exton, Exeter, Devon EX3 0PN Tel. 01392 875604. E-mail: [email protected]

Secretary George Stephenson 42 Sandford Walk Newtown Exeter Devon EX1 2ES Tel 01392 411154 Email [email protected]

Editor Jonathan Seagrave S.W. Soundings 10 Woodlands Rise, Downend Bristol BS16 2RX Tel: 0117 9566127 Email: [email protected]

Treasurer Philip Northcott 7 Canberra Close Pennsylvania Exeter Devon EX4 5BA Tel 01392 437543 Email: [email protected]

Membership Britt Zerbe 6 Beare Square Beare Broadclyst Exeter EX5 3JZ Email: [email protected]

COMMITTEE Mike Bender, Julia Creeke, Helen Doe , Michael Duffy, Maria Fusaro, Peter Ferguson, David Hills (webmaster), Will Stirling 40