Bristol
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Bristol

Sidewheel steamboat built in New York in 1866-67 by William H. Webb.


Manufacturer
William Henry Webb
Vessel Type
ship

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The Bristol was a steamboat built in 1866 by the Bristol Steam Navigation Company in Bristol, England. This vessel measured 230 feet in length, with a beam of 25 feet and a depth of 13 feet, boasting a gross register tonnage of 569 tons. Powered by a steam engine, the ship had two masts and a single funnel. The Bristol primarily served as a passenger ferry between Bristol and Liverpool, offering both comfort and speed to travelers. Known for its luxurious accommodations and efficient service, the ship quickly gained a reputation for reliability and comfort on the route. In 1873, the Bristol was involved in a significant maritime event when it collided with the steamship SS Lugano in the Bristol Channel. This collision resulted in damage to both vessels and led to a legal dispute over liability and damages. Despite this incident, the Bristol continued to operate successfully for several years, contributing to the transportation of passengers and goods between Bristol and Liverpool. The ship played a crucial role in connecting these two important port cities, facilitating trade and travel between them. The Bristol's service came to an end in 1888 when it was sold to new owners. The ship was eventually scrapped, marking the conclusion of its active maritime career. Although the Bristol may not have achieved lasting fame or notoriety in maritime history, it played a significant role in the transportation network of its time, serving as a vital link between two key ports in England. Overall, the Bristol represents a typical steamboat of the late 19th century, characterized by its sleek design, steam propulsion, and passenger-focused amenities. While its career was relatively short-lived compared to some other vessels of its era, the Bristol's service history and role in connecting Bristol and Liverpool underscore its importance in the maritime landscape of the time.

This description has been generated using GPT-3.5-TURBO based on the Vessel's wikidata information and then modified by ShipIndex.org staff.

Ships

2 ship citations (2 free) in 2 resources

Bristol (1866; steamboat, New York)
Book Merchant Sail
Author William Armstrong Fairburn
Published Fairburn Marine Educational Foundation, Inc., Center Lovell, Maine,
Pages V: 2806, 2812
Bristol, steamship (1867)
Journal American Neptune (1941-1990; Vols. 1-50)
Published Peabody Essex Museum, Salem, Mass.,
ISSN 0003-0155
Pages III, 43, plate 12; IV, 175; (1887), XI, 256 ff.; (1897), XI, 258 ff.