Pleasure Steamer Collection

Robert Fultons (1765-1815) first steamboat the Clermont, 1807 (engraving)
PNP247899 Robert Fultons (1765-1815) first steamboat the Clermont, 1807 (engraving) by American School, (19th century); Private Collection; Peter Newark American Pictures; American, out of copyright

The Okahumkee steamer taking on wood fuel in Florida, c. 1895 (b / w photo)
PNP247897 The Okahumkee steamer taking on wood fuel in Florida, c.1895 (b/w photo) by American Photographer, (19th century); Private Collection; Peter Newark American Pictures; American

The stern-wheeler Cochan on the Colorado River, 1890 (b / w photo)
PNP247891 The stern-wheeler Cochan on the Colorado River, 1890 (b/w photo) by American Photographer, (19th century); Private Collection; (add.info)

The paddle steamer Sempione arrives at Gandria Village, Lake Lugano, Switzerland July 1938

Day-trippers from Londons East End flood down to the sea front and beaches at Southend to soak up the summer sunshine. Southend, Essex. 24th July 1963

The steamer The Queen Mary seen leaving Bridge Wharf for Rothesay and Dunoon. Glasgow, 15th July 1934

The pleasure steamer Sir Walter Scott seen here tied up for the duration of the second world war on Loch Katrine. 10th July 1943

The pleasure steamer Golden Eagle 22 May 1926

Captain V C Branthwaite, of the Golden Eagle 14 June 1926

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"Journey through Time: The Evolution of Pleasure Steamers" Step aboard the time machine and embark on a captivating voyage through the history of pleasure steamers. Our journey begins in 1807 with Robert Fulton's groundbreaking invention, the Clermont, which revolutionized transportation forever. Envision yourself amidst the excitement as this magnificent steamboat glides along the Hudson River, marking a new era in travel. Fast forward to late 19th-century Florida, where we witness the Okahumkee steamer replenishing its wood fuel. This black and white photograph captures a moment frozen in time, showcasing both the beauty and challenges faced by these vessels navigating America's waterways. However, not all moments were serene; tragedy struck in 1837 when Ben Sherod exploded on Mississippi waters. An engraving immortalizes this devastating event that reminds us of the risks involved in early steamship journeys. Venturing westward to Colorado River circa 1890, we encounter Cochan—a stern-wheeler paddle steamer—majestically cruising through rugged landscapes. The monochrome photo transports us back to an era when these vessels connected remote regions and opened up new frontiers for exploration. Closer to home is Malpas regatta in Cornwall during 1909—an idyllic scene filled with joyous crowds reveling onboard pleasure steamers while cheering rowing competitions unfold before their eyes. It serves as a reminder that these grand vessels were not only modes of transport but also symbols of leisure and celebration. Across Europe's enchanting lakeshores lies Lake Lugano, where Sempione gracefully arrives at Gandria Village—a picturesque sight that evokes tranquility and elegance reminiscent of a bygone era. Back on British shores, London's East End residents flood down to seaside destinations for day trips brimming with laughter and delight—their anticipation palpable as they board pleasure steamers bound for sun-soaked adventures along coastal havens.