Working on the Great Eastern by gaslight.

Repro ID: H1705

Description: The construction of the 'Great Eastern' was delayed by financial constraints. At one stage, in February 1856, John Scott Russell's shipyard was seized by the banks after a series of financial irregularities. Work on the ship was suspended until May 1856 and hundreds of employees were discharged. When work resumed, the pace of construction was stepped up in order to meet contract conditions. This meant the work had to continue around the clock.

Creator: 'The Illustrated London News'

Date: 1857

Credit line: National Maritime Museum, London