SS Great Britain: Brunel's Ship, Her Voyages, Passengers and Crew

The book "Helen Doe" provides a narrative account of the SS Great Britain, a historically important ship that led the way for iron shipbuilding and screw propulsion. It charts the ship's design and construction, the tribulations of her owners, and her long life at sea, carrying passengers, troops, and emigrants. The ship was rescued twice, once from Dundrum Bay, Ireland, and once from the Falkland Islands, and now sits in splendour in her original dock in Bristol.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 15 August 2022
Publisher: Amberley Publishing

SS Great Britain, a legendary and historically significant vessel, is vividly depicted in the narrative provided by Helen Doe. This groundbreaking ship, characterized by its experimental and contentious nature, paved the way for the development of iron shipbuilding and screw propulsion. The book meticulously charts the ship's remarkable design and construction, as well as the challenges faced by her owners in realizing Isambard Kingdom Brunel's vision. Brunel, deeply passionate about this vessel, was devastated when a navigational error led to her stranding in Dundrum Bay, Ireland. However, her remarkable rescue and subsequent long and illustrious career at sea, transporting passengers to New York, troops to the Crimea and India, and countless emigrants to Australia, showcased her resilience and versatility.

Helen Doe also sheds light on the diverse range of individuals connected to the ship, including crew members, passengers, and even a grand Victorian scandal. The mysterious disappearance of her long-serving captain adds an intriguing layer to her story. Through this comprehensive account, the ship's life and times are vividly recreated, providing a human perspective to the history of a technological marvel.

SS Great Britain's journey was not limited to one rescue. She was salvaged a second time when she was rescued from the Falkland Islands and towed home across the Atlantic. Today, she sits in splendid glory in her original dock in Bristol, attracting visitors from around the world. This captivating account not only celebrates the ship's iconic status but also highlights its profound impact on industrial history.

In conclusion, SS Great Britain stands as a testament to human ingenuity and innovation. Through the narrative provided by Helen Doe, we gain a deeper understanding of this remarkable ship and the significant role it played in shaping the maritime industry. Her legacy continues to inspire and captivate generations, reminding us of the power of human determination and the enduring impact of technological advancements on our world.

Weight: 268g
Dimension: 129 x 198 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781398116924