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SS CHIEFTAIN 1907


SS CHIEFTAIN 1907

The SS 'Chieftain' was built for David Hope MacBrayne in 1907, and was an 'advanced' version of the SS 'Claymore' of 1881.  She was a magnificent ship, combining features of the old sailing-ship era with the new world of electric winches, cranes and other 'modern' technology.  She was intended primarily for cruises to the Hebrides, and was called a 'cruise yacht' by MacBrayne's.  Unfortunately, she also had to carry herring-girls and sheep and the usual clutter of island life.  She was not entirely successful, and was sold to the North Company after 12 years of service with MacBrayne's.



    O0 I really like this one Donald...great drawing !

    Donald E. Meek
    May 04 2010 11:55 AM
    Thanks, Debra.  The ship was a beauty, and that makes her 'easier' to draw! Easier for me, anyway.  I wanted to see how she would have  looked side-on, and I produced this sketch, based on old photographs.  She was one of three 'cargo yachts' - the 'Claymore' (1881), the 'Chieftain' (1907), and the loveliest of them all, the 'St Sunniva' (1931), owned by the North Company.  I must have a go at the 'Sunniva'.  All the best, Donald.