The "Great Northern".

The Great Northern, this extraordinary steamer in the East Indian Dock is the object of general astonishment. Her great length, breadth, and depth exceeds we believe the dimensions of any steamer ever in existence. She was built in Londonderry by Captain Coppin and is a remarkable monument of marine architecture. She is propelled by Archimedian Screws which work on each side of the rudder. The engine is 560 horse power, no paddles are required, and but for the funnel which is seen amidships she might pass for a square rigged ship of the larger class. She has three masts with lower and upper yards and is rigged in respect of a frigate or sloop of war. During the week many persons visited the dockyard to gaze at this really wonderful object. Her dimensions are as follows. length 274 feet, beam 37 feet, depth 26 feet, and her speed averaged 13½ knots.


The Illustrated London News, 14th January 1843.

Transcribed by Lars Bruzelius.


Sjöhistoriska Samfundet | The Maritime History Virtual Archives | Search.

Copyright © 1996 Lars Bruzelius.