PS Adelaide
PS Adelaide is the second oldest wooden hulled paddle steamer still operating anywhere in the world. Hjejlen from Denmark is older and have sailed since 1861[1] It is now moored at the Echuca Wharf and used for special occasions.
History | |
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Name: | Adelaide |
Owner: | J.C. Grassey and Partners(first owners) |
Route: | Murray River, Australia |
Builder: | George Linklater |
Laid down: | 1866 |
Homeport: | Echuca, Victoria (Australia) |
Status: | Tourist vessel |
General characteristics | |
Class and type: | Paddle steamer |
Propulsion: | Steam |
Notes: | Data compiled from several sources[1][2] |
History
PS Adelaide was built by George Linklater at Echuca in 1866 for J.C. Grassey and Partners.[2] It was used by the original owners to transport wool to Echuca from nearby sheep stations. It was also a part-time passenger boat, bringing the ladies into town to do their shopping.
PS Adelaide was later purchased by the Murray River Sawmill Co and used as logging steamer. PS Adelaide operated as a logging steamer until 1958, before being sold to a South Australian owner and leaving Echuca. Purchased by the Echuca Apex Club in 1960, the vessel returned to Echuca and was eventually removed from the river for display in a local park.
In the early 1980s work began on restoring the vessel's hull and it was re-launched in 1984. With restoration completed in 1985, the PS Adelaide was re-commissioned by the Prince and Princess of Wales.
Particulars
PS Adelaide was one of the fastest paddles steamers on the Murray River.[1]
References
- "P.S. Adelaide". Port of Echuca. Archived from the original on 9 April 2013. Retrieved 22 May 2012.
- "The history of Hero". Hero Enchanted Journeys. Retrieved 22 May 2012.