As our October meeting gets autumn season under way Mark Barton’s talk on Naval Duelling was a lively and fascinating introduction to the 2023/2024 programme. The preponderance of pistols over swords as a weapon of choice was a surprise to me, even though there was some question whether they were more effective fired or thrown! The changing role of seconds, from participants in the combat to arbiters trying to prevent it was another illuminating insight. For those who missed it, Mark’s books on the subject are widely available.
How would you feel about being posted to HMS Tortoise? Despite the less than encouraging name this former East Indiaman did sterling service, finishing her days as Ascension Island guardship where she was scrapped in place. John Bingeman’s talk reviewed his experience diving on her remains. Among his discoveries was the fact that the copper sheathing of this Bombay (Mumbai) built ship was fixed with bronze, or Muntz metal bolts instead of the copper used in British dockyards. The Indian practice was both cheaper and stronger. John passed examples of the bolts around for inspection.
Following a show of hands at the meeting we will continue developing the ideas for a September 2024 trip outlined in the last newsletter.
The bar menu at the Royal Maritime Club has been extensively updated since we were last there and, I think much improved. We hope to welcome you there at our next meeting – please see the Events page for details.