LAUNCH of the "HANNAH CROASDELL"
Barrow RO Nov 2004
Extract from the Ulverston Mirror 29th September 1866
Page 5 Col
LAUNCH OF THE "HANNAH CROASDELL" - A
very fine vessel was launched from the yard of Mr.
Wilson, at Canal Head, on Wednesday, in presence
of a large concourse of people. The day was fa-
vourable for spectators, and, with the numerous
flags which were hoisted, the vicinity of the canal
basin presented quite a holiday appearance. The
launch was a most successful one, the vessel, on the
removal of the obstructions, gliding easily but gently
down the ways, with just sufficient impetus to carry
her to the centre of the canal basin, where she floated
"as level as a die." It was anticipated by some
that the ship would have been impelled against the
opposite side of the basin, but her speed was checked
as soon nearly as she began to move by the sticking
fast of a "dagger" which also gave the vessel a
slight curve in the direction of the basin's head. A
hearty cheer succeeded the launch. The vessel is
named the Hannah Croasdell, and takes her title
from the name of Mrs. Croasdell, wife of Mr. James
Croasdell, of Plumpton Hall farm. As far as can
be judged by appearances, the vessel is strongly
built, and from her make would appear to be a
fast sailer. The following are her dimensions -
Length of keel, 85 feet; length over all, 89 feet;
breadth, 23 feet 6 inches; depth, 12 feet; tonnage,
dead weight, 300 tons. She is expected to be classed
A1 for eight years, no doubt being entertained that
she will pass the necessary inspection. We believe
her future commander will be Captain John Pernie,
and that she will be principally engaged in the
Mediterranean trade. We understand that Mr.
Wilson is negotiating for the construction of a much
larger vessel, to be engaged in the North American
trade, the size of which will necessitate her being
built at the Canal Foot. - In the afternoon the
usual dinner was partaken of by the owners and
friends, at the New Inn (Mr. Muckalt's), Market-
street.
The history of the "Hannah Croasdell" is summarised on the Maritime History Page Through Mighty Seas at http://www.mightyseas.co.uk/marhist/furness/duddon/hannahcroasdell.htm
Her loss is reported in Pembrokeshire Wrecks at http://www.dive-pembrokeshire.com/wreck1.html Feb 26th 1917 4 miles w 3/4 N of St Ann's. Struck an enemy mine and sank.