View (looking aft) from the port paddle box of the Great Eastern.

View from the port paddle box.

Repro ID: PU6758

Description: In calm waters, the 'Great Eastern's' paddle-wheels operated smoothly. However, in turbulent seas there were problems. As she rocked in a rough sea her paddle-wheels were not submerged to the same depth. This caused enormous strain on the submerged wheel, and potential damage. 'Great Eastern' was well known to pitch dramatically in rough weather. On one occasion a paddle-wheel was even destroyed.

Creator: Robert Dudley

Date: Unknown

Credit line: National Maritime Museum, London