The paddle steamer Woolwich Belle (1891).

Repro ID: G11025

Description: The 'Woolwich Belle' was built by Denny & Bros at Dumbarton for the London, Woolwich and Clacton-on-Sea Steamboat Company. Launched on 6 April 1891, she entered service from London to Clacton in May. In 1894, the 'Woolwich Belle' inaugurated her owner's connection from Ipswich to Clacton (via Felixstowe and Harwich). From July 1909, sailings were commenced at Felixstowe, going as far as the Kent Coast, Tilbury and the Medway. In May 1922 a refitted 'Woolwich Belle' was sold to The Channel Excursions Ltd of Brighton and renamed 'Queen of the South'. She was sold on to the New Medway Steam Packet Company in 1924. Refitted after the 1930 season, including the installation of an oil-fired boiler, the 'Woolwich Belle' was withdrawn after the end of the 1931 season and scrapped at Grays in 1932.

Creator: Unknown

Date: c.1891

Credit line: National Maritime Museum, London