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Home
  • Home
  • About the Trust
    • History of the Trust
    • Members Page
    • Bibliography
    • Volunteer Support Group
    • Links
  • History
    • Dockyard People
    • Gallery
    • Chronology
    • Personal Accounts
    • Development of Functions and Customs
  • Online Museum
    • Oral History
    • Exhibitions
    • Docking Register
    • Employment Register
    • Trident Paper
  • Contact
    • Search the site

Dockyard Timeline

A history in words and pictures of the Royal Dockyard Portsmouth.

Home
  • Home
  • About the Trust
    • History of the Trust
    • Members Page
    • Bibliography
    • Volunteer Support Group
    • Links
  • History
    • Dockyard People
    • Gallery
    • Chronology
    • Personal Accounts
    • Development of Functions and Customs
  • Online Museum
    • Oral History
    • Exhibitions
    • Docking Register
    • Employment Register
    • Trident Paper
  • Contact
    • Search the site
  • 1841

    1841 - A Severe Frost
    13/02/1841

    13th February. Rain, sleet and snow followed by severe frost enabled many people to skate in large areas of the Town, even in front of the Admiral’s House in... more information
  • 1841

    1841 - Holy Trinity Church Consecrated
    30/09/1841

    30th September. Holy Trinity church, Portsea, was consecrated by the Bishop of Winchester.(See 1906)
  • 1842

    1842 - Naval Review,Prince Albert Visit & 4 Ships Launched
    1842

    Naval Review by Queen Victoria at Portsmouth. Prince Albert visited the Dockyard inspecting the Block Mills, Copper Foundry and Blacksmiths Shop. This year saw considerable shipbuilding in the Dockyard with... more information
  • 1843

    1843 - Launch of EURYDICE
    16/05/1843

    16th May. HMS Eurydice was launched from the Dockyard by Miss Elliot. Eurydice was an experimental ship built by Rear-Admiral Elliot with the view of testing how far all the... more information
  • 1843

    1843 - Launch of SKYLARK
    27/07/1843

    27th July. The 8 gun Brig Skylark was launched from the Dockyard; she later became a training ship and was sold to a private buyer in 1875.
  • 1843

    1843 - Dockyard Railway Begun
    1843

    Railway system to serve the dockyard started construction. Prior to this a horse tramway system had existed since the late 18th century for moving masts from the Mast Pond to... more information
  • 1843

    1843 - Seventeen Acres Added to Dockyard
    29/05/1843

    Seventeen acres added to the Dockyard to provide facilities for the new steam Navy. 29th May. Rear Admiral Hyde Parker, CB lays the first stone to the new Steam Basin.... more information
  • 1843

    1843 - Royal Dockyard School Founded
    1843

    Royal Dockyard School founded north of Marlborough Gate (see 1814 & 1970).
  • 1843

    1843 - Visit by King of Saxony
    30/05/1843

    30th May. The King of Saxony visited the town and toured the Dockyard as well as inspecting some of the ships. When he came to HMS Victory the crew manned... more information
  • 1844

    1844 - Salt Water Fire Station Completed
    1844

    The Salt Water Tank (Fire Station) completed. It was first proposed in April 1842 by Lt. Beatson RE and the Master Shipwright Blake. It replaced Bentham’s wooden water tank. Permission... more information
    1844 - Salt Water Fire Station Completed
  • 1844

    1844 - Annexation of “New Buildings”, Portsea
    1844

    Admiralty annexed the area known as “the New Buildings”, Portsea and demolished 230 houses. The area was brought into the dockyard as part of the area of the new Steam Basin. ... more information
  • 1844

    1844 - Spithead Review
    1844

    Queen Victoria inspected British & French ships at Spithead .
  • 1844

    1844 - Nasmyth Hammer for Smithery
    18/09/1844

    18th September. 2½ ton Nasmyth hammer and boiler to be delivered to the Smithery.
  • 1844

    1844 - Arrival of King Louis Philipe
    06/10/1844

    6th October – saw the arrival of Louis Philippe, King of the French.
  • 1844

    1844 - Launch of OSPREY & DARING
    02/04/1844

    2nd April. Saw the double launching of Osprey and Daring, two experimental 12 gun brigs, from the Dockyard.
  • 1844

    1844 - Visit by King Louis Philipe
    08/10/1844

    8th October. The French King, Louis Philipe, who was escorted by a French squadron, visited the Dockyard and Town. The Royal Yacht Gomer brought the French King into the harbour.... more information
  • 1844

    1844 - Queen Victoria Inspects HMS VICTORY
    21/10/1844

    21st October – the anniversary of the Battle of Trafalgar, the Queen made a complete inspection of HMS Victory. On descending to the orlop deck she was nearly knocked down by... more information
  • 1844

    1844 - Launch of SCOURGE
    08/11/1844

    8th November. The Scourge, a 6 gun wooden paddle steamer, was launched.
  • 1844

    1844 - Chain Cable Store
    19/12/1844

    19th December. Lt. R.S. Beatson RE prepares drawing for cast iron circular window for the Chain Cable Store. By the 27th December, Beatson had prepared details for the doors... more information
  • 1844

    1844 - Electric Telegraph from London to Portsmouth
    1844

    This year Cook and Wheatstone undertook a contract for 21 years at £1.500 a year to provide an electric telegraph between the Admiralty in London and Portsmouth Dockyard. The South-Western took half... more information
  • 1844

    1844 - Crimean War Fleet Review
    10/03/1844

    10th March. (The Crimean War). 21 Sail of the Line were review by HM Queen Victoria. At one o’clock the Queen was observed coming from Osborne House in the “Fairy”... more information
  • 1845

    1845 - Screw Versus Paddle Proved
    1845

    This year the Admiralty decided to prove the respective merits between the paddle wheel and the screw propeller. The two ships selected for the contest were the paddle wheel vessel... more information
  • 1845

    1845 - Queen Victoria Reviews Experimental Squadron
    21/06/1845

    21st. June. Queen Victoria reviewed the Experimental Squadron at Spithead. At this period there were 113 steam vessels in the Royal Navy.
  • 1845

    1845 - Sir John Franklin Expedition
    19/05/1845

    19th May. Sir John Franklin sailed to find the North West Passage in the “Erebus” and “Terror”. They were last sighted on the 26 July at the head of Baffin Bay. ... more information
  • 1845

    1845 - No. 3 Shipbuilding Shop
    1845

    Contract entered into between the Lord Commissioners of the Admiralty and Messrs. Baker and Son, of Lambeth for the erection of two cast-iron roofs over the two first class ship-building... more information
  • 1846

    1846 - First Chief Engineer Appointed
    05/1846

    May. Andrew Murray was appointed the first Chief Engineer and Inspector of Machinery.
  • 1846

    1846 - Portsmouth to Gosport Telegraph
    1846

    First electric telegraph cable laid between Portsmouth and Gosport. Mr. Hay, a chemist in the High Street, Old Portsmouth, devoted much attention to electricity and lectured on the subject in... more information
  • 1846

    1846 - Launch of RIFLEMAN
    10/08/1846

    10th August. The Rifleman, the first screw-driven vessel to be built in the dockyard was launched. She was a wooden steam gunboat of 483 tons.
  • 1846

    1846 - Dockyard Railway Linked to Town Station
    1846

    Physical link of Dockyard railway to town Stations (see 1843, 1876).
  • 1847

    1847 - Launch of DAUNTLESS
    05/01/1847

    5th January. The Dauntless, a wooden steam frigate of 26 guns, was launched from the Dockyard.
  • 1847

    1847 - Cooperative Society Founded
    1847

    Working Men’s Co-operative Society founded by dockyard men. This was the start of the Portsea Island Co-operative Society. (see 1817).
  • 1847

    1847 - Royal Albert Pier at The Hard
    01/06/1847

    1st June. Opening of “Royal Albert Pier” at the Hard. It was 1249 in length. The Harbour station now occupies the site.
  • 1847

    1847 - Establishment of Factory Accounts
    01/04/1847

    1st April. Commencement of the financial year, the men employed in the Factory to be transferred from the books of the Storekeeper: “the Pay Clerk & Bookkeeper of the Factory... more information
  • 1847

    1847 - Chain Cable Store Floor
    22/04/1847

    22nd April. “With reference to a letter from Captain James RE, relative to the floor of the Chain Cable Store, I am (to ask) if the iron ballast, recommended by... more information
  • 1847

    1847 - Plan for New Grounds at North of Dockyard
    12/07/1847

    12th July. Captain James RE has forwarded “a general plan of the new grounds at the north end of the Dockyard, representing the Docks, slips, and Factory now building… enclosed... more information
  • 1847

    1847 - Fire Station
    11/09/1847

    11th September. A plan to enclose the space under the Salt Water Tank in Portsmouth Yard has been accepted, Messrs. Baker & Son who tender to perform the work for... more information
    1847 - Fire Station
  • 1847

    1847 - Steam Basin Caissons
    06/10/1847

    6th October. The new iron caissons made by Fairbairns are ready. Capt. James RE was to report when he would be ready to receive them. The original entrance to the... more information
  • 1847

    1847 - Formation of Dockyard Infantry & Artillery Companies
    04/1847

    April – the artisans and other workmen of the Dockyard were formed into 12 companies of infantry and 10 companies of artillery; each company consisting of 85 men, making a total of 1870 men. The... more information
  • 1847

    1847 - Last Semaphore Message
    31/12/1847

    31st December – the last message by semaphore was sent from Portsmouth to London. The semaphore system was established in 1795.
  • 1848

    1848 - Opening of New Steam Basin
    25/05/1848

    25th May. HM Queen Victoria, accompanied by Prince Albert and the Duke of Wellington, opened the New Steam basin (No. 2 Basin) 15,000 people witnessed the event (see 1843).
    1848 - Opening of New Steam Basin
  • 1848

    1848 - Launch of LEANDER
    08/03/1848

    8th March. Leander was the last sailing ship to be built in the Dockyard was launched; she was said to have been designed by Richard Blake who was at that... more information
  • 1848

    1848 - No. 6 Boathouse Opened as Mast House
    1848

    No 6 Boathouse was opened as a Mast House. It is a yellow brick structure built around a cast iron frame work consisting of elegant cast iron beams and columns. It... more information
  • 1848

    1848 - Launch of ARROGANT & PLUMPER
    05/04/1848

    5th April. Saw a double launching at the Dockyard when the screw steam frigate Arrogant and the screw steam sloop Plumper were launched in the presence of a great concourse... more information
  • 1848

    1848 - Central School of Mathematics & Naval Construction Founded
    1848

    Central School of Mathematics and Naval Construction founded in the dockyard.
  • 1848

    1848 - Semaphore on Square Tower Dismantled
    1848

    Semaphore on Square Tower dismantled (see 1822).
  • 1848

    1848 - Royal Dockyard Corps Formed
    1848

    Royal Dockyard Corps volunteer militia formed. Operated until 1857. (see 1718).
  • 1848

    1848 - London to Portsmouth Railway Opened
    01/10/1848

    1st October. The railway from London to Portsmouth was opened.
  • 1849

    1849 - Ship Shop No. 2 & No. 7 Dock Opened
    1849

    Ship Shop No.2 built for the construction of steam engines. No. 7 Dock opened. Dockyard railway consisted of 1¾ miles of track (see 1952).
  • 1849

    1849 - Cholera in Portsmouth
    1849

    Cholera strikes the town during the summer months. The town records state that there were 800 interments at Kingston Churchyard and St. Thomas’s Churchyard; they were buried in batches usually... more information
  • 1849

    1849 - Reductions in Shipwrights
    1849

    Shipwright staff reduced to 3,500 with reductions in other categories of worker.
  • 1849

    1849 - Royal Sailors Home Opened
    1849

    Royal Sailors Home opened in Queen Street.
  • 1849

    1849 - Launch of ARGOS
    15/12/1849

    15th December. The wooden steam paddle sloop Argos was launched from the Dockyard.
  • 1849

    1849 - Cancellation of COSSACK
    1849

    The wooden steam gunboat Cossack that was laid down in 1846 was cancelled and taken to pieces on the slipway.
  • 1849

    1849 - Cancellation of RESOLUTION
    1849

    The steam sloop Resolution that was laid down in 1846 was taken to pieces and transferred to Sheerness Dockyard but she was cancelled the following year and scrapped..
  • 1850

    1850 - Convict Riot
    05/04/1850

    5th April. A serious riot on board the convict-ships, Sterling Castle and York, moored alongside in the dockyard. It was not suppressed until two days later when the ringleaders were... more information
  • 1850

    1850 - Frederick’s Battery
    25/04/1850

    25th April. It was reported that Frederick’s Battery was completed. This was later dismantled in the late 1860’s and rebuilt with the Round Tower on the north-eastern corner of... more information
  • 1850

    1850 - Nelson & Wellington Statues on Southsea Common
    18/06/1850

    18th June. Lieut. Governor, Lord Frederick Fitzclarence, before giving up command of the Garrison, said he would like to present two statues as a token of regard and good feeling... more information
  • 1850

    1850 - No. 9 Dock Opened
    23/08/1850

    23rd August. No. 9 Dry Dock was opened at the North corner of the Dockyard. The Neptune of 120 guns was to be the first ship to be dry docked. But the... more information
  • 1850

    1850 - Launch of FURIOUS
    26/08/1850

    26th August. The launching of the wooden steam paddle frigate Furious from the Dockyard.
  • 1852

    1852 - Steam Smithery Opened
    17/04/1852

    Great Steam Smithery opened in the Dockyard. On the 17 April the Hampshire Telegraph reported that Mr. Nasmyth, the inventor of the steam hammer, installed two in the Steam Smithery and... more information
    1852 - Steam Smithery Opened
  • 1852

    1852 - Loss of BIRKENHEAD
    02/01/1852

    2nd January. The Troopship Birkenhead sailed from Portsmouth. She was wrecked off Danger Point, South Africa on 26th February with the loss of 436 lives. The behaviour of the crew and... more information
  • 1853

    1853 - Spithead Review
    11/08/1853

    11th August. Grand Naval Review at Spithead. It was the first Royal inspection of a fleet of Steam Warships. After the Review there was a mimic battle between the new... more information
  • 1854

    1854 - Staff Surgeon Appointed to Dockyard
    1854

    Staff Surgeon appointed to the Dockyard (see 1688, 1875, 1918).
  • 1855

    1855 - No. 8 Dock Opened
    12/06/1855

    12th June. The South Inlet Dock, (No 8 Dry Dock) opening into the Steam Basin was completed in early February. The first ship to use it was Queen Victoria’s new... more information
    1855 - No. 8 Dock Opened
  • 1855

    1855 - Launch of MARLBOROUGH
    31/07/1855

    31st July. HM Queen Victoria accompanied by the Prince Consort and the eldest of her children launched HMS “Marlborough”, a wooden steam screw of 1st rate (121 guns). She stuck 25 feet... more information
  • 1855

    1855 - Board of Ordnance Merged with War Office
    1855

    Board of Ordnance, established in the Tudor period, was merged with the War Office.
  • 1856

    1856 - Clerk of the Cheque Abolished
    01/04/1856

    1st April. The ancient position of Clerk of the Cheque was abolished from 30th March 1830 and it responsibilities merged with that of the Storekeeper. However it re-emerged as a separate... more information
  • 1856

    1856 - Grand Peace Fleet Review
    23/04/1856

    23rd April. Grand Peace Review of the Fleet by Queen Victoria at Spithead, after its return from the Baltic. There totalled 254 ships of all classes manned by over 50,000 men and... more information
  • 1856

    1856 - Proclamation of Peace
    03/05/1856

    3rd. May. The Proclamation of Peace was read by the Town Clerk, first at the Platform Battery, next from the steps of Market House, and finally from the Dockyard Gate.
  • 1856

    1856 - Return of Wounded from Crimea
    12/05/1856

    12th May. The Queen was at Portsmouth when a troopship arrived from the Crimea with a large number of wounded men and invalids on board. The Queen expressed a wish... more information
  • 1856

    1856 - Peace Celebration
    29/05/1856

    29th May. Peace with Russia was celebrated in Portsmouth by a General Holiday. A Review of the Garrison on Southsea Common and a grand firing of a Feu-de-joie followed by... more information
  • 1857

    1857 - Post-war Redundancies
    1857

    220 artificers discharged from the Steam Factory and all labourers employed in the late war dismissed. Rates of pay for painters and carpenters: 23 shillings a week, shipwrights 27 shillings; rope and sail... more information
  • 1857

    1857 - Launch of ROYAL SOVEREIGN
    25/04/1857

    25th April. Launch of “Royal Sovereign” the first turret ironclad in the Royal Navy. She was laid down as 121 gun ship of the line but, while completing, the decision was... more information
  • 1857

    1857 - Queen Inspects Troops for India
    04/08/1857

    4th August. (Troopers Jetty.) Queen Victoria inspected in the Dockyard a large number of troops about to embark for India. At this time the jetty now known as South Railway... more information
  • 1857

    1857 - No.10 Dock Opened
    1857

    Dock No. 10 opened.
    1857 - No.10 Dock Opened
  • 1858

    1858 - Presentation of Victoria Crosses
    02/08/1858

    2nd August. Queen Victoria visits Portsmouth and presents twelve officers and men with the Victoria Cross on Southsea Common. The Parade consisted of 4.000 troops with over 20.000 spectators.
  • 1858

    1858-61 Hilsea Lines Re-constructed
    1858

    Hilsea Lines reconstructed from this date to the present form (see 1747). These lines actually form the last of the town ramparts and much of it is still visible to-day. The... more information
  • 1859

    1859 - Launch of BACCHANTE
    30/07/1859

    30th July. The 51 gun wooden steam frigate Bacchante was launched from the Dockyard. She did not have a very long life as she was broken up in 1869 at Portsmouth.
  • 1859

    1859 - Launch of VICTORIA
    17/11/1859

    17th November. The 121 Gun 1st Rate ship Victoria was launched by Princess Frederick William of Prussia. HM The Queen and other members of her family were also present. It was... more information
  • 1859

    1859 - Launch of DUNCAN
    13/12/1859

    13th December. The 101 gun ship of the line Duncan was launched from the Dockyard. She was sold and broken up in London 1910.
  • 1859

    1859 - Royal Navy Reserve Created
    1859

    Royal Navy Reserve created.
  • 1860

    1860 - Launch of PRINCE OF WALES
    25/01/1860

    25th January. After nearly twelve years on the stocks the 131 gun ship of the line was launched and named Prince of Wales. She was laid down as a sailing ship... more information
  • 1860

    1860 - Float-up of RINALDO
    24/03/1860

    24th March. The Dockyard saw the 17 gun wooden steam sloop Rinaldo that had been built in a Dry Dock, floated up.
  • 1860

    1860 - Launch of FREDERICK WILLIAM
    25/03/1860

    25th March. The Frederick William was launched from the Dockyard. She was originally to be named Royal Frederick but the name was changed just before the launching on the occasion... more information
  • 1860

    1860 - Hired Staff
    1860

    Hired staff in Dockyard 1265:- Shipwrights 550 Caulkers 60 Joiners 90 Smiths 128 Sawyers 56 Painters 27 Mill Wrights 35 Labourers 305 Oakum boys 14
  • 1860

    1860 - Metropolitan Police Take-over
    01/10/1860

    1st October. Metropolitan Police take over policing duties in the dockyard. There position was clarified by a special Act of Parliament 1860 for their employment in Her Majesty’s Yards, Victualling... more information
  • 1860

    1860 - Launch of WARRIOR
    29/12/1860

    29th December. Launch of “HMS Warrior” at Blackwall. Laid down 1859. (See 1987).
  • 1860

    1860 - Demolition of Portsmouth & Portsea Fortifications
    1860

    Commencement of demolition of the fortifications of Portsmouth and Portsea (See 1770, 1864). Future defence would be from the Hill Forts, sea forts and harbour entrance defences and a last ditch stand... more information
  • 1860

    1860 - Controller of the Navy
    04/02/1860

    4th February. The title of Surveyor of the Navy abolished and was restyled Controller of the Navy.
  • 1861

    1861 - Purchase of Whale island
    1861

    Whale Island, that had been used as a dumping ground from spoil excavated from the Steam Basin, was purchased from the Corporation for £1,000 by the Admiralty. Both Winchester College and... more information
  • 1861

    1861 - Hydraulic Engine House Built
    1861

    The Hydraulic Engine House that sits on the south eastern side of the Camber was built; it was designed by the Chief Engineer, John Murray, and extended in 1904. Its purpose... more information
  • 1861

    1861 - Launch of CHANTICLEER
    09/02/1861

    9th February. The Chanticleer was launched from the Yard; she was a wooden steam sloop.
  • 1861

    1861 - Launch of GLASGOW
    28/03/1861

    28th March. The wooden steam-screw frigate Glasgow was launched. She was sold in 1884.
  • 1861

    1861 - Trouble with Convicts
    1861

    Trouble with convicts. Several murderous attacks by convicts on their warders are reported this year. The worst being an attack by 26 convicts on two warders in the Cable Store of... more information
  • 1861

    1861 - Removal of Cadet-training Ship Britannia from Portsmouth
    1861

    This year great concern was felt in the town and Dockyard over the Admiralty decision to remove the Cadet Training Ship Britannia from Portsmouth Harbour to another port. Sir James... more information
  • 1862

    1862 - Royal Marine Barracks, Eastney
    1862

    Royal Marine Barracks, Eastney, commenced building.
  • 1863

    1863 - Portsdown Hill Forts
    1863

    Four out of five Portsdown Hill Forts well advanced in construction.
  • 1863

    1863 - Cancellation of BRAMBLE & CROWN
    12/12/1863

    12th December. The Wooden steam gunboats Bramble and Crown, which had both been laid down in 1861, were cancelled and taken to pieces on the slipway.
  • 1863

    1863 - Portsmouth’s Dry Dock
    1863

    Portsmouth’s own Dry Dock. This Dry Dock was built at a cost of £30,000 and was sited at the Camber, Old Portsmouth. It was first used in May of this... more information
  • 1863

    1863 - Cancellation of KENT
    1863

    The 92 gun 2nd Rate Ship of the Line Kent that was laid down in 1860 was cancelled and taken to pieces on the slipway.
  • 1863

    1863 - Cancellation of PROTECTOR
    1863

    The steam gunboat Protector that was laid down in 1861 was taken to pieces before launching and cancelled.
  • 1864

    1864 - 2nd Major Expansion of Dockyard
    1864

    It was this year the Lords of Admiralty were granted the necessary Parliamentary powers for the enclosing of an additional 180 acres to Dockyard (93 of which were reclaimed mudflats) and the... more information
  • 1864

    1864 - Launch of CHERUB
    29/03/1864

    29th March. The gunboat Cherub was launched from Haslar Gunboat Yard.
  • 1864

    1864 - The White Ensign
    09/07/1864

    9th July. By Her Majesty’s order of Council, it was directed that the classification of ships under the denomination of Red, White and Blue Squadrons, should be discontinued, and... more information
  • 1864

    1864 - Float-up of ROYAL ALFRED
    15/10/1864

    15th October. The Royal Alfred was floated out of dry dock from the Dockyard. She was laid down as a 91 gun ship of the line and converted to an ironclad... more information
  • 1864

    1864 - Cancellation of HARLEQUIN
    12/12/1864

    12th December. The steam sloop Harlequin that was laid down in February 1861 was cancelled and taken to pieces on the slipway.
  • 1864

    1864 - Cancellation of DRYAD
    16/12/1864

    16th December. The wooden steam frigate Dryad that was laid down 2nd January 1860 was cancelled and taken to pieces on the slipway.
  • 1865

    1865 - Launch of HELICON
    31/01/1865

    31st January. The paddle yacht, dispatch vessel Helicon was launched from the Dockyard. She was later renamed the Enchantress in 1888.
  • 1865

    1865 - Launch of MINISTREL
    16/02/1865

    16th February. The wooden steam gunboat Ministrel was launched.
  • 1865

    1865 - First Use of No. 11 Dock
    01/07/1865

    1st July. The first ship dry docked in the newly-opened north inlet dock in the Steam Basin (No. 11 Dock) was HMS Minotaur. At that time the Dock was one of... more information
    1865 - First Use of No. 11 Dock
  • 1865

    1865 - Size of Dockyard
    1865

    Dockyard employees, exclusive of officers, 4905. Wages £284,754 a year (see 1837).
  • 1865

    1865 - Unicorn Gate Moved
    03/08/1865

    3rd August. The tender submitted by G.Smith & Co. for taking down and re-erecting the Unicorn Gate was accepted.
  • 1866

    1866 - Launch of NETLEY
    22/07/1866

    22nd July. The wooden steam gunboat Netley was launched.
  • 1866

    1866 - Launch of ORWELL
    27/12/1866

    27th December. The wooden steam gunboat Orwell was launched. These vessels had three masts and were square rigged. They played a major part in policing the Victorian Empire.
  • 1866

    1866 - Southsea Esplanade
    1866

    Spoil from Dockyard basin used to form Southsea Esplanade carried by a temporary tramway from the Dockyard to Southsea Common (see 1864).
  • 1866

    1866 - Labourers’ Pay
    1866

    Labourers Pay – 150 ‘established’ men @ 14 shillings a week, 220 1st class labourers @ 13s-6d, and 800-900 2nd class labourers @ 13 shillings a week. 220 of these men worked for the timber inspector and 30 for... more information
  • 1867

    1867 - Sweet Fanny Adams
    24/08/1867

    24th August. Young Fanny Adams from Alton was cruelly murdered and partly dismembered. At that time the process of tinning meat for the Navy was still in its infancy and... more information
  • 1867

    1867 - Visit by Sultan of Turkey
    17/07/1867

    17th July. The Sultan of Turkey visits the Town and Dockyard. A Naval Review in his honour was staged; it consisted of eight wooden frigates, two wooden sloops, fifteen iron... more information
  • 1867

    1867 - Gunboat Construction Programme
    1867

    Danae launched 21st May. Ringdove Launched 4th September. Avon launched 2nd October Cracker Launched 27th November. Bruiser Launched at Haslar Gunboat Yard 23rd April. Cromer Launched at Haslar Gunboat Yard 2... more information
  • 1867

    1867 - Anchor Gate Closed
    1867

    Anchor Gate closed. (see 1864).
  • 1867

    1867 - Torpedo & Gunnery School Opened
    1867

    Torpedo and Gunnery electrics school started on HMS “Vernon” in Fountain Lake. Her first commander was ‘Jackie’ Fisher. Commissioned as an independent establishment in 1876.
  • 1868

    1868 - Kings Mill Destroyed
    1868

    Kings Mill (see 1712) destroyed by fire. 600 Dockyard men enrolled as special constables due to fear of Fenian attacks.
  • 1868

    1868 - Dockyard Ropery Closed
    05/1868

    May The Dockyard Ropery was closed. With the revolution in ships steam propulsion the need for rope gradually diminished and rope making was concentrated in Devonport and Chatham Dockyard. Senior... more information
  • 1868

    1868 - Launches of ELK, MAGPIE, SIRIUS & SWALLOW
    1868

    10th January…… The composite steam gunboat Elk. 12th February….. The wooden steam gunboat Magpie. 24th April……… The Wooden steam corvette Sirius. 16th November…. The wooden steam gunboat Swallow.
  • 1869

    1869 - Discharged Men Emigrate to Canada
    20/04/1869

    20th April. Great gloom hung over the town as discharged Dockyard men and their families emigrated to Canada. 391 men, women and children, of whom 175 belonged to Portsmouth, sailed in the... more information
  • 1869

    1869 - Launch of DIDO
    23/10/1869

    23rd October. The wooden steam corvette Dido was launched from Portsmouth Dockyard. On return from the Zulu Wars she was hulked and in 1906 was re-named Actaeon.
  • 1869

    1869 - Death & Departure of George Peabody
    18/12/1869

    18th December. The departure of George Peabody Financier, Banker, Entrepreneur and benefactor of the London poor. George Peabody was born in Massachusetts, America in 1795 in 1816 he moved to Baltimore where... more information
  • 1870

    1870 - Royal Marine Barracks, Eastney Completed
    1870

    Royal Marine Barracks at Eastney largely completed (see 1862).
  • 1870

    1870 - Admiralty Chemical Laboratory Established
    1870

    Admiralty Chemical Laboratory established in the Dockyard.
  • 1870

    1870 - More Emigrants to Canada
    06/1870

    June another large party of Dockyard shipwrights and their families embark in the troopship Crocodile for passage to Canada.
  • 1870

    1870 - Dockyard Recruitment due to Franco-Prussian War
    1870

    700 taken on in the Dockyard because of worries about the Franco-Prussian War. (see 1869-70).
  • 1870

    1870 - Launch of PLUCKY
    13/07/1870

    13th July. The gunboat Plucky was launched. She was one of the two prototypes for 20 Ant class gunboats built at about this time. She was renamed Banterer in 1916 and finally... more information
  • 1870

    1870 - Launches of BLAZER & COMET
    12/1870

    7th December. The Gunboat Blazer was launched. 8th December. The Gunboat Comet was launched.
  • 1870

    1870 - Dockyard Complement
    1870

    The Dockyard Complement 1870. Shipwrights & Apprentices. Established 1.086; Hired 609. Caulkers & Apprentices. Established 110. Joiners. Established 159. Sawyers. Established 61. Smiths & Apprentices. Established 213. Workmen in Block and other Mills. Established 71. Coppersmiths Hired 45. Riggers.... more information
  • 1871

    1871 - Removal of Lion Gate
    1871

    The Lion Gate was removed this year when the fortification was demolished at the end of Queen Street. It was later re-erected as the gate way to Anglesey Barracks in... more information
  • 1871

    1871 - Flogging Suspended in Royal Navy
    1871

    Flogging in Royal Navy suspended in peacetime. (See 1879).
  • 1871

    1871 - No.12 Dock Complete
    20/05/1871

    20th May. (Great Extension) No 12 Dry Dock structurally completed.
    1871 - No.12 Dock Complete
  • 1871

    1871 - HMS DEVASTATION Floated
    12/07/1871

    12th July. HMS “Devastation” (4,406 tons) the first ironclad built at Portsmouth in a dry dock was floated up. Generally thought to have been built in No. 9 Dry Dock. Construction had... more information
  • 1871

    1871 - Dockyard Staff Reduced
    1871

    Staff in Dockyard reduced from 3,781 to 3,045 in 1871 (see 1865).
  • 1872

    1872 - HMS VERNON Moored in Portchester Creek
    1872

    HMS “Vernon” moored in Portchester Creek for use as the Royal Navy’s first torpedo school. (Moved to Gunwharf mooring in 1876 and to shore there in 1923).
  • 1872

    1872 - Departure of HMS CHALLENGER for Oceanographic Survey
    21/12/1872

    21st December. HMS Challenger, a steam screw corvette converted to a survey ship under the command of Captain George S. Nares, left Portsmouth on her 4 year oceanographic survey in collaboration... more information
  • 1873

    1873 - Re-location of Unicorn Gate
    1873

    The Unicorn Gate, which pierced the Portsea fortifications at the end of North Street, Portsea, was taken down this year and re-erected as an entrance to the Dockyard Extension. (It... more information
  • 1873

    1873 - Spithead Review for Shah of Persia
    23/06/1873

    23rd June. Spithead Review in honour of the Shah of Persia. It was the first time that a ruler of Persia had visited this country and he astonished all beholders... more information
  • 1873

    1873 - Great Extension Lock Completed
    17/07/1873

    17th July. (Great extension) the lock connecting No 3 basin to the tidal basin is structurally completed.
  • 1873

    1873 - Launch of SHAH
    10/09/1873

    10th September .The 26 gun Iron Steam frigate, Blonde, that had been built in the dockyard was re-named at her launching in honour of the Royal Visitor as HMS Shah.
  • 1873

    1873 - Dockyard Staff
    1873

    Staff in Dockyard 3,900 (see 1870). Smiths wages – 1st class 45 shillings a week, to 4th class on 29 shillings.
  • 1874

    1874 - Fire in No. 11 Storehouse
    1874

    Disastrous Fire. No.11 Store House (now the Naval Museum) was completely gutted by fire down to the ground floor. However the massive walls remained intact and in 1879 the building was... more information
    1874 - Fire in No. 11 Storehouse
  • 1874

    1874 - Industrial Injuries
    1874

    In the previous 12 months 4,000 dockyard men were treated at the dockyard surgery for minor injuries. 1,000 men and boys incapacitated. Compared to the previous 10 years the number had trebled.
  • 1874

    1874 - Review of Troops Returning from Ashanti War
    23/04/1874

    23rd April.Troops and sailors returning from the Ashanti War are reviewed at Gosport by the Queen and on the 30th April they are entertained by Portsmouth.
  • 1875

    1875 - Launch of DREADNOUGHT
    03/08/1875

    8th March. The armoured battleship Dreadnought was launched at Pembroke dockyard. According to an article in the London Illustrated News she was completed at Portsmouth dockyard.
  • 1875

    1875 - Great Extension Docks Opened
    29/05/1875

    29th May. The Deep Dry Dock (No. 9 Dock), North Lock (B. Lock), South Lock (A. Lock), Tidal Basin and the Repairing Basins were opened (see 1864).
    1875 - Great Extension Docks Opened
  • 1875

    1875 - Departure of Arctic Expedition
    1875

    Departure of the Arctic Expedition in “Alert” and “Discovery”. The expedition returned on 20th November 1876 after HMS “Alert” had reached within 400 miles of the North Pole.
  • 1875

    1875 - Manager Constructive Department Appointed
    01/04/1875

    1st April. Mr. W. B. Robinson was the last Master Shipwright at Portsmouth for on the 1st April the title changed to that of Chief Constructor. Interestingly on his appointment... more information
  • 1875

    1875 - A Terrible Disaster
    18/08/1875

    18th August. A Terrible Disaster. The Royal Yacht Alberta, in company with the Victoria & Albert, (Alberta was tender to the V & A) steamed at 15 knots across Spithead towards... more information
  • 1875

    1875 - Launch of BOADICEA
    16/10/1875

    16th October. Saw the launching from the Dockyard of the iron screw corvette Boadicea of 3913 tons burden.
  • 1875

    1875 - No. 7 Boathouse Re-built
    1875

    No 7 Boathouse rebuilt over the Mast Pond.
  • 1876

    1876 - Launch of INFLEXIBLE
    27/04/1876

    27th April. Princess Louise launches HMS “Inflexible” (12,000 tons). With the thickest armour used on a warship (24 inches), she was also the first major warship to use electricity and to be... more information
    1876 - Launch of INFLEXIBLE
  • 1876

    1876 - Great Extension Declared Open
    1876

    The Princess Louise steamed into the new Dockyard extension works to declare it open (see 1864). During the extension works there were as much as 9 miles of railway viaducts in use... more information
    1876 - Great Extension Declared Open
  • 1876

    1876 - Launch of BACCHANTE
    19/10/1876

    19th October. The iron screw corvette Bacchante was launched from the Dockyard. She was a sister ship to the Boadicea that had been launched the previous year.
  • 1876

    1876 - Boiler Explosion in HMS THUNDERER
    07/1876

    July. Boiler explosion on HMS “Thunderer” while she was at Spithead kills 45 men. A local relief fund amounting to £5.000 was raised for the sufferers.
    1876 - Boiler Explosion in HMS THUNDERER
  • 1876

    1876 - Railway Viaduct to South Railway Jetty Completed
    1876

    Railway viaduct from Harbour Station into Dockyard via swing bridge completed.
  • 1876

    1876 - Complement of Dockyard
    1876

    1876-7. Following the Great Extension, many new trades entered the Dockyard as follows: Apprentices. Established 0; Hired 131. Blockmakers. Established 3. Block Mills. Established16. Braziers and Tinmen. Established 5; Hired 3. Bricklayers. Established 1; Hired 1. 1 Boilermakers.... more information
  • 1877

    1877 - The Great Foreshore Case
    1877

    The Great Foreshore Case. Since the days of the Plantagenet’s the Corporation had exercised rights of Admiralty over the foreshore – that is, the land between the high and low... more information
  • 1878

    1878 - Reserve Squadron Review
    13/08/1878

    13th August. The Queen reviewed the Reserve Squadron at Spithead. It consisted of 26 vessels such as the Lord Warden, Valiant, Warrior and Hercules.
  • 1878

    1878 - Dockyard Redundancies
    1878

    Discharge of 1,400 dockyard men but 700 re-engaged.
  • 1878

    1878 - Loss of HMS EURYDICE
    24/03/1878

    24th March. On Sunday afternoon the training ship HMS Eurydice, when off Dunnose Point, a headland between Ventnor and Sandown and almost within sight of home, was struck by a... more information
  • 1879

    1879 - Flogging in the Royal Navy Abolished
    1879

    Flogging in the Royal Navy was abolished (see 1871).
  • 1879

    1879 - “Sailor’s Welcome” Opened
    1879

    “Sailors Welcome” opened in Queen Street by Sarah Robinson who had already established the “Sailors Institute” in ex-“Fountain Hotel”, High Street in 1874 (present site of “Fountain Court”).
  • 1880

    1880 - Troops for Afghanistan
    1880

    In consequence of the troubles in Afghanistan, Indian troopships left Portsmouth with the 1st battalion of the Rifle Brigade. The Queen, accompanied by the Prince and Princess of Wales and... more information
  • 1881

    1881 - Crown Prince Inspects HMS INFLEXIBLE
    22/07/1881

    22nd July. The Crown Prince (William II) came to Portsmouth to inspect HMS Inflexible, then the last word in naval construction and commanded by Captain (Jacky) Fisher. A week later... more information
  • 1881

    1881 - Launch of CANADA
    26/08/1881

    26th August. The Crown Princess of Germany launches the corvette Canada from the Dockyard. She was the first all steel ship to be built in the yard.
  • 1881

    1881 - Launch of CORDELIA
    25/10/1881

    25th October. The Cordelia a sister ship to the Canada was launched from the Yard.
  • 1881

    1881 - Annual Dockyard Regatta
    1881

    The annual Dockyard Regatta was a great success this year and was attended by the Prince and Princess of Wales. 150 boats, manned by over a 1000 men, took part in the... more information
  • 1881

    1881 - “Royal Sailors Rest” Opened
    1881

    “Royal Sailors Rest” opened by Agnes Weston in Queen Street.
  • 1882

    1882 - Launch of COLOSSUS
    21/03/1882

    21st March. The launching of the turret ship Colossus by Lady Emma Baring, daughter of Lord Northbrook, First Lord of the Admiralty. Colossus was the first all steel battleship and... more information
  • 1882

    1882 - No. 5 Boathouse Built
    1882

    No. 5 Boathouse built over part of Mast Pond (see 1665 & 1875).
  • 1882

    1882 - “Royal Sailors Rest Home” Opened
    14/06/1882

    14th June. “Royal Sailors Rest Home” opened by Agnes Weston in Commercial Road.
  • 1882

    1882 - Troops Return from Egyptian Wars
    03/11/1882

    3rd November. Marines, sailors and troops arrive back at Portsmouth from the Egyptian Wars and were entertained at public expense.
  • 1883

    1883 - Plans for Police Cells
    01/1883

    January. First plans and sections of the new Police cells at Portsmouth. These are just inside the Victory Gate.
  • 1883

    1883 - Launch of IMPERIEUSE
    18/12/1883

    18th December. The armoured cruiser Imperieuse was launched from the Dockyard.
    1883 - Launch of IMPERIEUSE
  • 1884

    1884 - Launch of CALLIOPE
    24/06/1884

    24th June. The cruiser Calliope was launched from the Dockyard. In March 1889 she was in Apia harbour, Samoa with six foreign warships and several merchant ships, when a hurricane broke... more information
    1884 - Launch of CALLIOPE
  • 1885

    1885 - Troops Return from Sudan Campaign
    1885

    Troops returned from the Sudan Campaign and were enthusiastically received at Portsmouth.
  • 1885

    1885 - Launch of CAMPERDOWN
    24/11/1885

    24th November. The first class battleship Camperdown was launched from the Dockyard. She commissioned 18th July 1889 for the Home Fleet. While in the Mediterranean on 22nd June 1893 the fleet were... more information
    1885 - Launch of CAMPERDOWN
  • 1886

    1886 - Visit by King of Portugal
    07/08/1886

    7th August. The King of Portugal visited Portsmouth and toured the Dockyard.
  • 1887

    1887 - Review on Southsea Common
    21/06/1887

    21st June. A Review of all the troops in the Garrison on Southsea Common in the morning followed by festivities in the afternoon by 23,000 children. A whole bullock was roasted... more information
  • 1887

    1887 - Golden Jubilee Fleet Review
    23/07/1887

    23th July. HM Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee and Naval Review of 136 major warships at Spithead. At night the fleet was illuminated by coloured electrical lighting.
  • 1887

    1887 - Dockyard Redundancies
    1887

    1,000 men discharged from the Dockyard. They were the heaviest discharges since 1869. So great was the distress in the town that the Admiralty agreed to give assisted passage to Canada in... more information
  • 1887

    1887 - Admiralty Experiment Works Established
    1887

    Admiralty Experiment Works established at Haslar under the superintendence of R.E. Froude.
  • 1887

    1887 - Launch of TRAFALGAR
    20/09/1887

    20th September. Amidst a great concourse of spectators, Lady Hood launched the new battleship Trafalgar from No. 5 slipway in the Dockyard.
    1887 - Launch of TRAFALGAR
  • 1888

    1888 - HMS NYMPHE Named
    01/05/1888

    1st. May. The Composite sloop HMS Nymphe was christened by Miss Platt who was the daughter of the Reverend T. D. Platt, Vicar of Holy Trinity church at Portsea.
  • 1888

    1888 - Launch of MELPOMENE
    20/09/1888

    20th September. The launch and christening of the cruiser HMS Melpomene was said to have been the shabbiest ever witnessed, for the Admiralty had forbidden any ceremony that was not... more information
  • 1889

    1889 - Naval Review for Kaiser
    1889

    Naval Review in honour of the Kaiser who was accompanied by a German Squadron. 81 ships, including 33 ironclads. After reviewing the fleet the Kaiser said that “he had seen the finest... more information
  • 1889

    1889 - Emigrants to South America
    03/1889

    March saw 850 emigrants leave Portsmouth for South America. But the bright new life offered did not mature and many return home disillusioned.
  • 1889

    1889 - The Two-power Standard
    31/03/1889

    31st March. The Naval Defence Act is passed. It established the principle of the two-power standard: the Royal Navy to be at least equal to the naval strength of any... more information
  • 1889

    1889 - HMS BEAGLE Named
    28/02/1889

    28th February. The Sloop HMS Beagle was christened by Mrs Deadman, wife of the Chief Constructor of the yard.
  • 1889

    1889 - HMS BARROSA Named
    16/04/1889

    16th April. HMS Barrosa a cruiser was christened by Miss Gorst, daughter of Sir John Gorst MP
  • 1889

    1889 - HMS VULCAN Named
    13/06/1889

    13th June. HMS Vulcan was christened by Mrs. Gordon, wife of Rear-Admiral Gordon, Admiral Superintendent of the Dockyard. This vessel was of a special nature as she was designed to... more information
  • 1889

    1889 - HMS BARHAM Named
    11/09/1889

    11th September. The cruiser HMS Barham was christened by Miss Hamilton, daughter of Sir Vesey Hamilton.
  • 1889

    1889 - Telephone Link Between Portsmouth & Southampton
    02/12/1889

    2nd December. Telephonic communications were established between Portsmouth and Southampton.
  • 1890

    1890 - Launch of PALLAS
    30/06/1890

    30th June. The cruiser HMS Pallas was launched from the Dockyard by Miss Gorst, the daughter of Sir John Gorst MP. She was sold for scrap in 1906.
  • 1890

    1890 - Kaiser Tours Dockyard & Eastney Barracks
    06/08/1890

    6th and 7th August. The Kaiser tours the Dockyard and Eastney Barracks.
  • 1890

    1890 - New Town Hall Opened
    09/08/1890

    9th August. The New Town Hall was opened by the Prince and Princess of Wales. In his opening address the Prince said: “you have every right to feel proud of... more information
  • 1891

    1891 - Queen Inspects French & English Squadron at Spithead
    20/08/1891

    20th August. HM Queen Victoria inspected French and English Squadron at Spithead.
  • 1891

    1891 - HMS EXCELLENT to Whale Island
    1891

    HMS “Excellent” moved to shore base at Whale Island (see 1830,1864). A railway system existed on theIsland after demolition of the viaduct in 1892 and was in use until c1929. (see 1864).
  • 1891

    1891 - Naming of ROYAL SOVEREIGN & ROYAL ARTHUR
    26/02/1891

    26th February – the Dockyard had special reason for rejoicing from the circumstances that two of the most powerful vessels yet constructed had been built in an incredibly short span of... more information
    1891 - Naming of ROYAL SOVEREIGN & ROYAL ARTHUR
  • 1891

    1891 - Rear Admiral J. A. Fisher Appointed Admiral Superintendent
    1891

    Rear Admiral J. A. Fisher CB appointed Admiral Superintendent of the Dockyard.
  • 1891

    1891 - Queen Reviews Fleets at Spithead
    20/08/1891

    20th August. Queen Victoria reviews ships of the British and French fleets at Spithead .
  • 1892

    1892 - Float-up of CRESCENT
    30/03/1892

    30th March. The First Class cruiser HMS Crescent that had been built in dry dock was floated up after the christening that was performed by Lady Elizabeth Mead. Crescent was... more information
  • 1892

    1892 - Float-up of CENTURION
    03/08/1892

    3rd August. The new battleship HMS Centurion that had been built in No. 13 Dry Dock was floated up after the christening ceremony that was performed by Mrs. Fisher, the wife... more information
    1892 - Float-up of CENTURION
  • 1893

    1893 - Royal Railway Shelter Built
    1893

    Royal Railway Shelter built on South Railway Jetty it was designed by Mr. T. C. Agutter. (See 1939).
    1893 - Royal Railway Shelter Built
  • 1893

    1893 - Launch of FOX
    15/06/1893

    15th June. Saw the launch of the cruiser HMS Fox, the christening ceremony was performed by the Countess of Clanwilliam.
  • 1893

    1893 - Sinking of HMS VICTORIA
    22/06/1893

    22nd June. The battleship HMS Victoria was sunk in collision with the battleship HMS Camperdown. The Admiral and 360 officers and men were lost in the Victoria. The majority of the... more information
    1893 - Sinking of HMS VICTORIA
  • 1893

    1893 - New Mould Loft Opened
    1893

    The new Mould Loft was opened this year. It was built almost facing the Admiral Superintendent’s residence. It was 150 ft long by 100 ft wide and on its large open... more information
    1893 - New Mould Loft Opened
  • 1894

    1894 - Launch of ECLIPSE
    19/07/1894

    19th July. The launch of the cruiser HMS Eclipse; the christening ceremony was performed by Mrs. Kane, wife of the Admiral Superintendent.
    1894 - Launch of ECLIPSE
  • 1895

    1895 - First Electrical Repair Shop Built
    1895

    First Electrical Repair shop built.
  • 1895

    1895 - Float-up of MAJESTIC
    31/01/1895

    31st January. Princess Louise christened the new battleship Majestic and she was floated up from the dry dock in which she had been built. Her building time set a record... more information
    1895 - Float-up of MAJESTIC
  • 1895

    1895 - Launch of PRINCE GEORGE
    22/08/1895

    22nd August. HRH The Duchess of York, accompanied by her husband the Duke of York ( future King George V), came to Portsmouth to launch the new battleship HMS Prince George.
    1895 - Launch of PRINCE GEORGE
  • 1896

    1896 - Indian Troopship HMS Malabar Returns
    29/04/1896

    29th April. The Indian Troopship Malabar arrived in Portsmouth after her last voyage. It had been decided to replace the Indian Troopship Service with liners. For many years Portsmouth had... more information
    1896 - Indian Troopship HMS Malabar Returns
  • 1896

    1896 - First Use of No. 14 Dry Dock
    01/07/1896

    1st July. HMS Terrible was the first ship to use No. 14 Dry Dock. No. 15 Dry Dock was opened a few months later. These two dry docks were allocated during the 1860... more information
    1896 - First Use of No. 14 Dry Dock
  • 1896

    1896 - No.1 Ship Shop
    1896

    The Workshop that had originally been known as the Armour plate shop and built in the late 1860’s was extended to become known as No. 1 Ship Shop.
  • 1896

    1896 - Gun Mounting Shop Opened
    1896

    The Gun Mounting Shop built and opened this year.
  • 1896

    1896 - HMS CAESAR Floated-up
    02/09/1896

    2nd September. The battleship HMS Caesar that had been built in 13 Dry Dock was christened by Lady Salmon, the wife of the Commander-in-Chief and floated up.
    1896 - HMS CAESAR Floated-up
  • 1896

    1896 - Launch of GLADIATOR
    08/12/1896

    8th December. The second class cruiser HMS Gladiator was launched in the presence of Mr. Goschen, the First Lord of the Admiralty, and a distinguished company. The First Lord’s... more information
    1896 - Launch of GLADIATOR
  • 1897

    1897 - Diamond Jubilee Fleet Review
    1897

    Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee Fleet Review of 173 major warships in 5 lines of ships, 7 miles long. HMS Active became the last full-rigged ship to sail out of Portsmouth Harbour. Charles... more information
    1897 - Diamond Jubilee Fleet Review
  • 1897

    1897 - Anchor Gate Demolished
    1897

    Anchor Gate demolished having previously been taken into the Dockyard in 1864.
  • 1897

    1897 - Launch of CANOPUS
    03/10/1897

    3rd October. Mrs Rice, wife of the Admiral Superintendent of the Dockyard, launches the new battleship HMS Canopus from No 5 Slipway.
    1897 - Launch of CANOPUS
  • 1898

    1898 - Last Indian Troopship Departs
    28/02/1898

    28th February. Saw the last departure of the Indian Troopships from Portsmouth with the sailing of “Jumma”. These troopships berthed at South Railway Jetty which at this time was known... more information
  • 1898

    1898 - Launch of FORMIDABLE
    17/11/1898

    17th November. HMS “Formidable”, the largest warship at that time, launched by Lady Hicks-Beach, the wife of the Chancellor of the Exchequer. On the 1st January 1915 while on exercises in... more information
    1898 - Launch of FORMIDABLE
  • 1899

    1899 - Launch of LONDON
    21/09/1899

    21st September. Launching of the Battleship HMS London by Lady George Hamilton.
    1899 - Launch of LONDON
  • 1900

    1900 - Launch of PANDORA
    27/01/1900

    27th January. The small cruiser HMS Pandora was launched by Mrs Napier the daughter of Admiral Sir Michael Culme-Seymour, Commander-in-Chief, Portsmouth.
    1900 - Launch of PANDORA
  • 1900

    1900 - Appointment of “The Electrician”
    01/11/1900

    1st November. Mr L. T. Steel was appointed head of an embryo electrical department with the title of The Electrician. The title changed soon after to Electrical Engineer (Higher Grade).
  • 1901

    1901 - Death of Queen Victoria
    22/01/1901

    22nd January. Death of Queen Victoria at “Osborne House”, Isle of Wight. On Friday afternoon, 1st February, the Royal Yacht ”Alberta” that was lying at Trinity Pier near to Osborne... more information
  • 1901

    1901 - Launch of KENT
    06/03/1901

    6th March. The Armoured cruiser HMS Kent was launched from the Dockyard the ceremony had to be postponed a day due to bad weather. The Kent completed 1st Oct 1903 into... more information
    1901 - Launch of KENT
  • 1901

    1901 - Duke & Duchess of York Arrive from Colonial Tour
    01/11/1901

    1st November. The Duke and Duchess of York arrived at Portsmouth at the conclusion of their Colonial tour aboard “Ophir”, temporarily serving as a Royal Yacht. (“Ophir” was an Orient... more information
  • 1901

    1901 - Erection of 100 ton Sheer Legs
    1901

    The 100 ton Sheer Legs were erected on the south side on No.3 Basin at a cost of £13,140 including machinery. They were built by Messrs. Cowan Sheldon & Co, Carlisle. Two... more information
  • 1902

    1902 - Arrival of First Submarines
    1902

    The first two submarines, “Holland I” & “Holland II”, arrived from Vickers at Barrow in Furness and were berthed alongside HMS “Hazard” (see 1904 & 1985).
  • 1903

    1903 - Launch of SUFFOLK
    15/01/1903

    15th January. The First Class Cruiser HMS Suffolk was launched from the Dockyard by Lady Stradbroke. She was laid down on 25th March 1901 and completed for service 21st May 1904. She... more information
    1903 - Launch of SUFFOLK
  • 1903

    1903 - Naval Barracks Completed
    30/09/1903

    30th September. The Naval Barracks were completed and opened. It had originally been an army establishment known as Anglesey Barracks. The old Lion Gate was first used as its entrance... more information
  • 1903

    1903 - HMS VICTORY Rammed
    23/10/1903

    23rd October. HMS “Victory” was rammed and nearly sunk at her mooring by old battleship “Neptune” that was under tow to the breakers yard. As Neptune came abreast of the... more information
  • 1904

    1904 - Launch of NEW ZEALAND
    04/02/1904

    4th February. The Countess of Onslow performed the christening ceremony of the new battleship HMS New Zealand. She was later renamed Zealandia and her original name given to a new... more information
    1904 - Launch of NEW ZEALAND
  • 1904

    1904 - Fort Blockhouse Becomes Submarine Base
    1904

    Submarines “Holland I”, “Holland II” and A1 berthed at Fort Blockhouse, which became the submarine base. Holland I, recovered from a watery grave is on show at the Submarine Museum... more information
  • 1904

    1904 - Submarine A1 Sunk
    18/03/1904

    18th March. While taking part in submarine experiments off the Nab the submarine A1 was struck by the liner Berwick Castle and sank with the loss of her crew of 2... more information
    1904 - Submarine A1 Sunk
  • 1904

    1904 - Return of DISCOVERY
    10/09/1904

    10th September. The Antarctic exploration ship Discovery arrived at Portsmouth after her memorable three year voyage.
  • 1904

    1904 - Launch of BRITANNIA
    10/12/1904

    10th December. Saw the launching of another battleship, HMS Britannia, by Lady Londonderry. She had the distinction of being the last British warship to be lost during World War I,... more information
    1904 - Launch of BRITANNIA
  • 1905

    1905 - Dockyard Redundancies
    27/03/1905

    27th March. It was announced that the Admiralty planned to discharge a large number of men from the Dockyard. As a result of agitation, the concession was obtained that the... more information
  • 1905

    1905 - Reception for King of Spain
    05/06/1905

    June 5th. The King of Spain arrived at Portsmouth and had a most imposing naval reception.
  • 1905

    1905 - The “Entente Cordiale”
    07/08/1905

    7th August. “Entente Cordiale”. The French Northern Squadrons anchor at Spithead and were reviewed by King Edward VII on 9th August. The French were lavishly entertained by the town.
  • 1905

    1905 - Centenary of Battle of Trafalgar
    21/10/1905

    21st October. The centenary of Nelson’s great battle was observed by many naval displays. At night HMS Victory was illuminated by electric lighting the current being supplied by a... more information
  • 1905

    1905 - HMS St Vincent Moves Ashore
    1905

    “St Vincent”, Boys Training ship, towed away and trainees move to shore establishment in Gosport.
  • 1905

    1905 - Great Factory Completed
    1905

    Great M.E.D. Factory completed.
    1905 - Great Factory Completed
  • 1906

    1906 - Launch of DREADNOUGHT
    10/02/1906

    10th February. Launch of the epoch making battleship, HMS “Dreadnought”, by King Edward VII. This ship made all other battleships obsolete and gave her name to a new class of... more information
    1906 - Launch of DREADNOUGHT
  • 1906

    1906 - Transfer Of Holy Trinity Church to Naval Authorities
    1906

    Transfer of the Holy Trinity Church to the Naval authorities at Portsmouth. The church was built in 1839 and consecrated on 30th September 1841 by the Bishop of Winchester. It had a... more information
  • 1906

    1906 - Riots in Naval Barracks
    04/11/1906

    Riots in Naval Barracks on 4th and 5th November.
  • 1907

    1907 - Launch of BELLEROPHERON
    27/07/1907

    27th July. Another great day for the dockyard as thousands of people flowed into the yard to witness the launching of the improved Dreadnought, HMS Bellerophon. The christening was performed... more information
    1907 - Launch of BELLEROPHERON
  • 1907

    1907 - Review of Home Fleet
    03/08/1907

    3rd August. A review of the re-constituted Home Fleet by King Edward VII. The fleet consisted of 188 major warships.
  • 1907

    1907 - Arrival of German Emperor
    11/11/1907

    11th November. The German Emperor arrived at Portsmouth in his Royal Yacht “Hohenzollern” escorted by a squadron of German warships. There was much profession of friendship and concord by the... more information
  • 1907

    1907 - Establishment of Electrical Drawing Office
    1907

    Three top floors of 33 Store converted to an Electrical Drawing Office.
  • 1908

    1908 - HMS GLADIATOR Sunk
    25/04/1908

    25th April. The Portsmouth built cruiser, HMS Gladiator, is rammed and sunk by the liner St. Paul, near Yarmouth, Isle of Wight during a snow storm. 30 men lost their lives... more information
    1908 - HMS GLADIATOR Sunk
  • 1909

    1909 - Send-off for Admiral Lord Charles Beresford
    24/03/1909

    24th March. Never before in the history of the Royal Navy had such a scene been witnessed at the Hard and Dockyard Gate when over 12,000 people assembled for the purpose... more information
  • 1909

    1909 - Fleet review at Spithead
    31/07/1909

    31st July King Edward VII reviewed Fleet at Spithead. This was the first review where battle cruisers were shown.
  • 1909

    1909 - Launch of NEPTUNE
    30/09/1909

    30th September. The improved Dreadnought HMS Neptune was launched from No 5 Slipway by the Duchess of Albany. Neptune was a single class ship, was the first British battleship to mount... more information
    1909 - Launch of NEPTUNE
  • 1909

    1909 - Joiner’s Shop Completed
    1909

    The Joiners Workshop was completed. It was built of concrete blocks on a concrete framing which for its time was quiet innovative. The building stood between Queen’s Rd and... more information
    1909 - Joiner’s Shop Completed
  • 1910

    1910 - Death of King Edward VII
    06/05/1910

    6th May. King Edward VII,nicknamed the Peace-maker, died at Buckingham Palace. At his funeral on the 20th May, his cortege was followed by the Kaiser, 8 Kings, 5 heirs, and over 50... more information
  • 1910

    1910 - Mixed Bathing at Southsea Beach!
    24/05/1910

    24th May. At a meeting of the Town Council it was resolved to allow mixed bathing at Southsea Beach.
  • 1910

    1910 - Visit by King George V
    21/07/1910

    21st July The new King of England, King George V, and his Queen visit Portsmouth to tour the Dockyard and other Naval establishments.
  • 1910

    1910 - Launch of ORION
    20/08/1910

    20th August. The Marchioness of Winchester launched the heaviest battleship yet built at Portsmouth dockyard, HMS Orion. She was the first British battleship to mount all her main armament on... more information
    1910 - Launch of ORION
  • 1911

    1911 - Coronation Fleet Review at Spithead
    24/06/1911

    24th June. Coronation Review at Spithead by King George V. Altogether there were 165 vessels including 32 battleships, 25 armoured cruisers, 8 protected cruiser, 4 light cruisers, 67 destroyers, 12 torpedo boats and 8 submarines. These vessels constituted... more information
  • 1911

    1911 - Oil Fuel Jetty Completed
    1911

    It was during this year that the Oil Fuel Jetty on the Gosport side of the harbour was completed.
  • 1911

    1911 - Dockyard Museum Opened
    28/06/1911

    28th June. The Dockyard Museum was officially opened by Mrs. Tate, wife of the Admiral Superintendent, Rear Admiral Alban G. Tate. It had long been the dream of Mr Mark... more information
  • 1911

    1911 - Launch of KING GEORGE V
    09/10/1911

    9th October. Princess Christian of Schleswig-Holstein launched the battleship HMS King George V from No 5 Slipway in the Dockyard. She was laid down as the Royal George but the name... more information
    1911 - Launch of KING GEORGE V
  • 1912

    1912 - King & Queen Return to Portsmouth from India
    05/02/1912

    5th February. The King and Queen return to Portsmouth aboard P&O Liner “Medina” (that had acted as a temporary Royal Yacht) from their Indian Tour, where his coronation... more information
  • 1912

    1912 - Submarine A 3 Sunk
    02/02/1912

    2nd February.The Submarine A.3. was sunk in collision with Torpedo Gunboat HMS Hazard with the loss of her crew of 14 officers and men while exercising off Bembridge, Isle of... more information
    1912 - Submarine A 3 Sunk
  • 1912

    1912 - Dry Docks Re-designated
    27/02/1912

    27th February. Portsmouth Dockyard General Order. As from this date and in accordance with Admiralty Local Order 3275: South Lock to be known as A. Lock North Lock to be known... more information
    1912 - Dry Docks Re-designated
  • 1912

    1912 - Parliamentary Fleet Inspection
    09/07/1912

    9th July. An assembly of the fleet took place for the benefit of both Houses of Parliament. There assembled 233 ships of all classes, including 44 battleships, 5 battlecruisers, 25 armoured cruisers and 106 destroyers.... more information
  • 1912

    1912 - No. 3, 4 & 5 Basins Combined
    1912

    No. 3, 4 and 5 Basins were combined to create No. 3 Basin. A 250 ton Hammerhead crane was constructed on the promontory.
    1912 - No. 3, 4 & 5 Basins Combined
  • 1912

    1912 - Largest Floating Dock Arrives Portsmouth
    02/08/1912

    2nd August. Worlds largest Floating Dock arrived at Portsmouth. It covered an area of 2¼ acres with lifting capacity of 40,000 tons. It was moored in Fountain Lake. (see 1939) This floating dock... more information
    1912 - Largest Floating Dock Arrives Portsmouth
  • 1912

    1912 - Launch of IRON DUKE
    12/10/1912

    12th October. The cradle of the Dreadnoughts added yet one more leviathan to the Royal Navy when the Duchess of Wellington launched the battleship Iron Duke from No 5 slipway watched... more information
    1912 - Launch of IRON DUKE
  • 1912

    1912 - Mobilisation of Torpedo & Submarine Flotillas
    02/11/1912

    2nd November. The Admiralty ordered an immediate mobilization of all torpedo and submarine flotillas.
  • 1913

    1913 - First Use of C Lock
    08/04/1913

    8th April C. Lock first used for the Dry Docking of the Battle-cruiser HMS Princess Royal. It had taken four years to build and cost £1,000,000.
    1913 - First Use of C Lock
  • 1913

    1913 - Launch of QUEEN ELIZABETH
    16/10/1913

    16th October. The launching of super Dreadnought HMS Queen Elizabeth by Lady Meux, wife of the Commander-in-Chief. She later treated the men who built the ship to a night out... more information
    1913 - Launch of QUEEN ELIZABETH
  • 1913

    1913 - Semaphore Tower Destroyed by Fire
    20/12/1913

    20th December. Semaphore Tower destroyed by fire. At 7-30pm on the evening of Saturday 21st December 1913, a fishmonger’s delivery boy on leaving the battlecruiser HMS Queen Mary moored... more information
    1913 - Semaphore Tower Destroyed by Fire
  • 1914

    1914 - Mobilization Of Reserve Fleet
    16/07/1914

    16th July. To test the efficiency of the Royal Naval Reserve system a mobilization of the reserve fleet took place at Spithead and was combined with a Fleet Review. There... more information
  • 1914

    1914 - War Declared
    04/08/1914

    4th August. Following the German invasion of Belgium, Great Britain declared war on Germany. The garrison and coastal defences are put on a high state of alert. At the beginning... more information
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