Maritime record MWX4952 - Great Eastern
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Summary
The Great Eastern anchored in Portland Roads after an explosion on board in 1859, in which 6 men were killed.
Map
Type and Period (2)
Full Description
The Great Eastern anchored in Portland Roads (9 000 1541) after an explosion on board during sea trials in 1859, in which 6 men were killed. (1) She was repaired in Portland and one funnel was replaced - the old funnel was used at Sutton Poyntz water works as a crude water filter where it survives. (2)
On September 7th the Great Eastern was proceeding down channel at the start of her maiden voyage. Off Hastings the water jacket round Number One funnel exploded, killing several men. Despite the damage the ship continued to Portland where she arrived on September 10th, and moored in the partly completed Portland Harbour. Here she was repaired, her damaged funnel was removed and a new one built, incorporating several design changes to ensure the accident didn't happen again. (3)
salvaged
Sources/Archives (3)
- <1> SWX8707 Digital archive: Le Pard, G. 1995-2003. Dorset Coast Forum Maritime Archaeological Database.
- <2> SWX9356 Article in serial: Dunkley, M. 2002. The Great Eastern Number 1 Funnel revealed at Sutton Poyntz. Vol. 124, p.116.
- <3> SDO9637 Monograph: Le Pard, G F. 2005. Shipwrecks of the Dorset Coast.
Finds (0)
Related Monuments/Buildings (0)
Related Events/Activities (0)
Location
| Grid reference | SY 70 76 (point) Estimated from sources |
|---|---|
| Map sheet | SY77NW |
Protected Status/Designation
- None recorded
Other Statuses/References
- Legacy UID: Dorset Sites and Monuments Record: 9 000 1043
Record last edited
May 6 2004 10:37AM