Palmer’s Yard not only commissioned over 100 ships for the esteemed Royal Navy but also left an indelible mark on the broader shipbuilding industry. From the launch of HMS Cruiser “York” by the Duchess of York to the construction of transatlantic vessels for renowned lines such as Guion, National, and North German Lloyd, Palmer’s shipbuilding prowess knew no bounds. A short video of the launch can be viewed at the British Pathe Archive.
Palmer’s Shipbuilding Yard showcased its versatility through the creation of diverse vessels tailored to various needs. One remarkable example was the fleet of ferries designed specifically for cross-Tyne duties These reliable and efficient ferries bridged the gap across the Tyne.
In contrast, between 1857 and 1872, Palmer turned out ocean-going passenger ships for the Guion, National, and North German Lloyd lines.
Transatlantic Crossing
Venturing across the vast Atlantic Ocean required vessels of exceptional strength and endurance. Palmer’s Yard rose to the occasion, crafting transatlantic ships for esteemed clients such as the North German Lines. The Mowe, Adler, Schwan, and Schwalbe, although relatively small at around 500 gross tons, traversed the Bremen-New York route with grace. Their success paved the way for the construction of larger vessels like the Hudson and Weser, weighing a staggering 2,250 gross tons. These colossal ships exemplified Palmer’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of maritime engineering.
Guion Line’s Fleet
Palmer’s collaboration with the Guion Line birthed a fleet of ocean-going behemoths that redefined transatlantic travel. Ranging from 3,100 to 4,300 gross tons, these majestic vessels were purpose-built for the demanding transatlantic service. The crowning jewels of this collection were the Dakota and Montana, launched in a groundbreaking manner with their boilers and engines already on board. Additionally, the Palmer works birthed a series of smaller yet equally remarkable ships, including the Manhattan, Chicago, Minnesota, Colorado, Nevada, Idaho, Wyoming, and Wisconsin. Each ship bore the hallmark of Palmer’s craftsmanship.
National Line’s Fleet
Not to be outdone, Palmer’s Shipbuilding Yard also left an indelible mark on the National Line, crafting vessels that embodied elegance and functionality. Ships like the Ontario, Helvetia, England, Scotland, and Wales graced the seas, sharing similarities with their Guion Line counterparts. These vessels, born in the 1860s, embodied Palmer’s unwavering commitment to excellence, setting new standards in the shipbuilding industry.
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