The movement of goods around the Clyde estuary was an important aspect of the development of steam traffic. Though less glamorous, and certainly less celebrated than passenger services, most steamship of the 1830s and 1840s boasted a hold for carrying cargo. This was a premium service; transport of bulk goods depended on the sailing smack and gabbarts that were slowly supplanted by puffers after the 1850s. The increasing emphases on speed and comfort for the passenger steamers in the late 1850s meant that while the mails, coming as they did with their subsidies were acceptable, goods requiring a lengthy stop at piers were no longer welcome. The railways provided an alternative for mainland destinations, but the more remote parts of the Firth, and some of the island communities, relied on more specialized vessels designed for more leisurely journeys. Many of these vessels were locally owned with strong ties to the area.

Typical was the Campbeltown and Glasgow Co. Ltd., with vessels such as the Kinloch and Dalriada, that provided passenger accommodation but also gave northern Arran and the Kintyre ports a cargo service until the second world war. The story of the Company is described elsewhere.

Commerce though the Crinan Canal meant that lower Loch Fyne was well served in the early years, and the trade was dominated by the Castle Company steamers. The steam-packet Argyll (officially Argyle as there was already a small steamer Argyll involved as a ferry on Lochfyne, but spelled Argyll in advertisements) was introduced in 1838 as a competitor. The Castle Company had a new iron paddle steamer, Tarbert Castle, built by Messrs Hedderwick & Rankin to oppose her.

“New steamer, for Tarbert, Lochgiphead and Inverary.—The Public are respectfully informed that the Splendid and Powerful New Steamer Argyll, being now almost completed, will be placed on the above station in the course of a few days, leaving Glasgow every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday mornings, and returning on the following days.

“The Argyll has been fitted up in a very superior and commodious manner, and her Cabins finished in the most superb style. The power of her Engines is such as to insure the greatest attainable speed. As the trade on this station hitherto has been exclusively monopolized by one Company, Shippers as well as Passengers will find it their interest to encourage and support this superior Steamer, which has been built expressly for this station.”—Glasgow Herald, April 6, 1838

The new paddle steamer was built of wood by Messrs Robert Duncan of Greenock and was 118½ feet long by 18½ feet in the beam. Her engines of 85 horse power, were supplied by Messrs Smith & Rodger, owners are given as James M‘Donald, James Fleming, and William Ewing, who was also her master.

“The Public are respectfully informed that the Splendid and Powerful New Steamer Argyll, Captain Wm. Ewing, will commence plying on Tuesday the 17th instant, between Glasgow and Inverary, calling at Greenock, Gourock, Dunoon, Rothesay, Tarbert, and Lochgilphead, leaving Glasgow every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday, for Lochgilphead, and on the Saturdays she will proceed to Inverary; and will return every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday.

“She will leave Glasgow on Tuesday (To-morrow) at 5 in the morning, and will proceed to Inverary.

“As the Argyll has been built expressly for this trade, with spacious accommodation for both Goods and Passengers, her proprietors confidently trust that she will meet with a fair share of support’

“For freight or passage, apply to H. Price, 351 Argyll Street, Glasgow, 16th April, 1838.”—Glasgow Herald, April 16, 1838.

The new company was induced to reduce its fares by the middle of May.

“Reduced Fares.—The new steamer Argyll sails from Glasgow to Greenock, Gourock, Dunoon, Rothesay, Tarbert, and Lochgilphead, every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday, at 6 o’clock Morning; on the Saturdays she will proceed to Inverary, and will return on the intermediate days; thus allowing the traveller and pleasure parties an opportunity of seeing the beauties of Lochfine and the Kyles of Bute, at a cheap rate.

“The owners of the Argyll feel much obliged for the decided preference given to their vessel. They will not put her passengers to the inconvenience of buying tickets, but will take them at the same rate as those boats that do. The passengers will not be compelled to buy a dozen ticket, or to go by any particular boat where it may not suit them.

“Fares—To or from Dunoon,..Cabin 1s. 0d; Steerage, 1s. 0d.; To or from Rothesay,..Cabin 1s. 6d; Steerage, 1s. 0d.; To or from Tarbert,..Cabin 2s. 0d; Steerage, 1s. 0d.; The freight on goods is much below the old Monopoly rates.—Glasgow, 19th May,1838”—Glasgow Herald, May 21, 1838.

An extra run was made for Tarbert Fair.

“Tarbert Fair.—The Superior steamer Argyll will leave Glasgow for Tarbert and Lochgilphead, on Tuesday, 31st current, at 6 morning; Wednesday, 1st August, at 6 morning; Thurssday, 2nd August, at 6 morning; Saturday, 4th August, at 6 morning. On Saturday she will proceed to Inverary. On Tuesday and Wednesday she will leave Lochgilphead for Glasgow at 2 o’clock afternoon.

“The Argyll being a substantial vessel, and built on a safe construction, can carry passengers and goods on deck, without danger or inconvenience.

“For freight or passage, apply to H. Price, 351 Argyll Street, Glasgow, 26th July, 1838.”—Glasgow Herald, July 27, 1838.

“The steamer Argyll will sail for Tarbert and Lochgilphead on Tuesday first, the 6th curt. At half past 6 morning, and will continue to sail at the same hour on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. On the Saturdays she will proceed to Inverary. Glasgow, 3d November, 1838.”—Glasgow Herald, November 5, 1838

“To Tarbert, Lochgilphead, and Inverary—During the short days, it is intended to run the Argyll steamer only twice a week. In place of Tuesday the 18th current, she will leave Glasgow on Wednesday the 19th, at six morning, for Lochgilphead, returning next day; and leaving Glasgow on Saturday the 22d, at six morning, when she will proceed to Inverary, and return on the Monday thereafter—and will continue to sail on the Wednesdays and Saturdays, at the same hour, till further notice. Glasgow, 351 Argyll Street, 13th December, 1838.”—Glasgow Herald, December 14, 1838

On February 11, 1839, the days of sailing were changed to Tuesday and Saturday until the beginning of the summer timetable in May.

The business appears to have been fairly successful. Perhaps the wrecking of the Castle Company’s Tarbert Castle at Kilfinnan Bay on Loch Fyne provided the extra encouragement.

“Loss of the Tarbert Castle steamer.—On board the Argyle steamer, Monday, half-past 1 p.m., off Kilfinnan Bay. This has been a dreadful day of storm here, and along the whole coast of Lochfine. We had a very considerable fall of snow on Saturday and Sunday morning; but in the afternoon of yesterday the weather changed, and rain, hail, and sleet fell in torrents, with an uncommonly high tide, and one of the most severe gales of wind that has been known by any person residing here. About 3 this morning, previous to the Tarbert Castle and the Argyle steamers leaving Inverary, the storm was very high, but it slackened somewhat during their passage from Inverary to Ardrishaig; the Tarbert Castle reaching and sailing from Ardrishaig Point first. At the time the Argyle steamer sailed from Ardrishaig the storm was not so severe; but she had not gone more than a quarter of a mile from the Point, when the gale met her with full force; and notwithstanding her rudder not being in a good state, and little ballast in the hold, she proved herself to be a good, indeed, a first-rate steam-boat.

“Notwithstanding the extreme severity of the hurricane that was blowing, she got as far as Tarbert, but after several attempts to enter the bay she found it to be impossible; and Captain Mathieson prudently determined to return. About this time Capt. Mathieson observed the Tabert Castle on the opposite coast, seemingly in great distress, but only the funnel and the masts could be seen. Captain Mathieson thought he saw one or two bursts of steam from her; but from the height of the waves, and the spray rising in the air almost in a state of vapour, the steam of the Tarbert Castle could not be properly distinguished, and whether she had sunk under the weight of the waves, or whether she was cast upon the rocks, he could not tell. Captain Mathieson with the Argyle reached Ardrishaig Point about half-past 10 a.m., and it is quite impossible to describe the universal feeling of terror and dismay that pervaded all when the reports of the uncertain fate of the Tarbert Castle were made known. The instant that Alexander Campbell, Esq., of Auchindarroch, heard of it, he went to Captain Mathieson, and became personally responsible for any damage the Argyle might sustain in her attempt to ascertain the state of the Tarbert Castle, and the saving of the crew and passengers. Mr. Campbell also collected some of the best fishermen of the place, to do what could be done for the sufferers.

“Notwithstanding the severity of the gale having but little subsided the Argyle set out, having Mr. Campbell, Mr. Sutherland, the Inspector of Fisheries, and a number more on board with us. We made for the point where she had been last seen, and found her thrown on the rocks of the Cowal shore, on her broadside, and the waves washing over her decks. But Captain Mathieson, after making several attempts, could only come within speaking to her. There were some persons on her deck, and others we saw on the rocks on shore. The Tarbert Castle sent off a boat and two men, who with great difficulty reached us. They stated that the Tarbert Castle was a complete wreck; but that all the crew and passengers were safe, and that we could not by possibility do them any good, as the passengers would either get to the Kyles of Bute or to Otter Ferry, and there reach means of communication. It is impossible to give too much praise to Captain Mathieson for the zeal he displayed in his endeavours to render assistance to the Tarbert Castle, and the readiness which he displayed in complying with the request of Mr. Campbell.— Glasgow Courier.”—Globe, January 14, 1839

Further details were revealed by the subsequent inquiry.

“The Tarbert Castle, iron steam-vessel employed on the Clyde, was driven upon a ledge of sharp-pointed rocks at the entrance of Loch-Fyne, during the hurricane of the 7th of January, 1839. The following is an extract from a report made upon a subsequent examination of her hull:—’When I was alongside it was the first of flood, but I could see from stem to stern of the starboard side of her bottom, in which there are three considerable indentations from the unequal surface of the rock; one may be about 15 feet, and the other 25 feet in circumference, the nucleus of the largest being stove in about 15 inches deep. In none of these, so far as I could see is there any injury to plates or rivets, except putting them out of shape. On the larboard side, on which she leans, just at the bilge, she has come down upon a sharp pointed angular corner of the rock, which has perforated the plate, and from the point of perforation, the plates have been rent asunder perhaps 7 feet or 8 feet forward, and 10 feet or 12 feet aft; but the problem as to the seams of iron vessels is thus effectually solved: for in the course of this space, it has only run along a seam about 1 foot, and the solid parts of the plates are rent, while the riveted parts are entire; yet the rivets are only single in this vessel, and not counter sunk. I cannot think that a timber vessel could have been in the same situation without receiving much more damage, slight as the Tarbert Castle is, and she is but slightly built, with ribs 3 feet or 4 feet asunder.’

“I believe the Tarbert Castle was not originally constructed with iron water-tight partitions, but by making the after bulk-head tight, and cutting off the damaged stern altogether, her steam-engine was floated up to Glasgow in the remaining half or three quarters of the hull, thereby proving beyond doubt the great security against sinking afforded by water-tight compartments. Another indispensable precaution against sinking, which should be provided for in the act, is that every steam-vessel should have proper pipes fitted for taking her injection water out of the bilge or hold. It has been asserted, that the Castle steamer was lost owing to the want of means of this description for relieving her when in a sinking state.”—Belfast Chronicle. June 30, 1839

A prospectus for a new Company to provide a new stable-mate for the Argyll appeared in February. Indeed, others also saw an opening. The West Highland service of Messrs Thomson & Maconnell introduced their steamer Brenda early in 1839 to sail from the Broomielaw to the Crinan Canal on a passengers only basis.

“Prospectus of a New Steam Packet Company for the Glasgow and Lochfine Trade.—It is well known that the trade on this station is not only already very great, but is also rapidly and daily increasing.

“This extensive trade was for many years in the hands of only one Company, and burdened of course with all the evils of an exclusive monopoly, but it has latterly been embarked in by an enterprising opposition Company, and an immense reduction in fares and freights, besides great additional accommodation to the public, have been the sure and necessary consequences.

“The Proprietors of the Argyll now see that to insure these advantages permanently, another steamer is required to sail in concert with the Argyll; and in order at once to secure a full share of the trade, and give all parties on the line an opportunity of participating in the profits, they have resolved to throw open their Proprietory list, and make up the requisite Capital for a New Steamer in Shares of £25 each; and no individual to hold more than ten shares.

“So soon as the new company has been formed, steps shall immediately be taken to contract for, or purchase, a suitable vessel of the greatest possible speed, and so constructed, all of the best British oak, as to give every confidence to the public in her safety and seaworthiness.

“The present Company will either continue to sail the Argyll on their own account, as a consort to the New Vessel, or, if it should be thought more advisable for all parties, the New Company may have that Steamer at a valuation—the price to be fixed by any two respectable men, a Carpenter and Engineer, chosen by the whole of the Proprietors.

“As it must be evident that it is for the interest of all, and particularly of those resident on Lochfine, at Tarbert, at Lochgilphead, and Inverary, as well as in Islay, to insure at all times the existence of a Second Company in this trade, all such (as well as merchants in Glasgow and Greenock, connected with the Lochfine trade) are respectfully requested to become shareholders in the “Glasgow and Lochfine Steam Packet Company.” A preference will be given, in the first instance, to those interested in this line of communication, either by residence, traffic, or otherwise.

“Parties on Lochfine side and in Islay will be waited upon in the course of a few days, to solicit their influence and support, so that the New Company may be as numerous and influential as possible.

“In the meantime applications for Shares may be made in Glasgow to Captain Price, 351 Argyll Street; in Tarbert, to Mr John M‘Lachlan, Postmaster; in Lochgilphead to Dr M‘Kellar; in Ardrishaig, to Mr Don. Angus, Agent; and in Inverary, to Mr John O’Neil, Innkeeper.”—Glasgow Herald, February 22, 1839.

Alas, fate in the form of poor maintenance intervened, the Argyll experienced a boiler explosion at Renfrew on July 11, 1839.

“Steam-boat Explosion the Clyde.—Life Lost.—About six o’clock on Thursday morning the steamer Argyll left the Broomielaw with goods and passengers for Inverary and the immediate ports, and while lying to at Renfrew-wharf on her passage down the river, we regret to state that her boiler burst, and loss of life and suffering has been the result. A young man belonging to Glasgow, named Thomas Craig, who officiated as fireman, was so dreadfully scalded that he must have died instantaneously. Another young man, a passenger, whose name we have not able ascertain, was most severely injured, and believe his recovery is doubtful. Some of the other persons on board were also scalded, but so slightly that the accident will not prevent them following their usual avocations. The Argyll had been for some time laid up at the Broomielaw undergoing repairs on her boilers, and this was her first trip after the renovation. On subsequent inspection it was found that the explosion had taken place at the bottom of the boiler, in which the newly-inserted plates had given way, leaving the old portions untouched. Courier.”—Globe, July 16, 1839

“Fatal Accident on Board the Argyll Steamer. —We have the painful task of announcing a very fatal accident which occurred on Thursday week on board the Argyll steamer, while that vessel was on her annual pleasure trip during the fair, to Lochgilphead, with upwards of 200 passengers. The vessel, according to custom, was to touch at different places on her passage, and the first was Renfrew Ferry. She had just stopped at the railway wharf there, and new passengers were in the act of getting on board, when the boiler burst with a tremendous explosion, to the terror and dismay all on board. The consequences were dreadful. Boiling water and steam rushed out upon the passengers in a torrent, and all was confusion and terror. When the steam had cleared away, the fatal effects of the explosion were at once ascertained. Two engineers were killed almost outright; a fireman was so seriously injured that he was not expected to live when the accounts came away, and five or six of the passengers were grievously scalded. Prompt assistance was immediately afforded to the sufferers, and all, except the engineers and fireman, are expected to recover. One of the former was a frightful spectacle, his face and head being dreadfully lacerated by the force of the explosion. The fireman was in the act of descending below when it took place. We have only heard one cause assigned for the bursting of the boiler. It is stated to have been recently patched, and the new plates having been imperfectly riveted, could not resist the pressure of the steam. No fault whatever, we believe, can be imputed to the master.—Scots Times (Glasgow).”—Bristol Times July 20, 1839

After this accident, the prospect of a locally owned steamship service from Loch Fyne was put on hold for over a decade.

It was in June 1839 that the Inverary Castle was launched for the Castle Company. The previous vessel of the same name, dating from 1820, was sold out of the Castle fleet in 1836 and had eventually been sold for scrap in 1838.

“Launch of Iron Steam Vessel—There was launched from the building yard of Messrs. Tod and M‘Gregor, Glasgow, upon Saturday morning, the largest vessel ever built of iron in this country. She is 200 feet long, named the Royal George, and is intended for the trade between the Clyde and Liverpool, as a consort for the Royal Sovereign. The machinery, which very powerful, and ready for fitting up on board, is also the workmanship of the same firm. Iron vessels seem to be the order of the day; it is only three or four weeks since the Inverary Castle, one of the largest class of river steamers, was launched from the same yard; and we understand, that Messrs. Tod and M‘Gregor are about laying down a sailing vessel of iron of nearly 400 tons.—Glasgow Chronicle.”—Southern Reporter, July 11, 1839

Constructed of iron by Messrs Tod & M‘Gregor, then one of the foremost iron shipbuilders on the Clyde, Inverary Castle was 136 feet long and was fitted with the 100 h.p. steeple engine salvaged from the ill-fated Tarbert Castle, built the previous year and wrecked on Lochfyneside on Monday January 7, 1839.

Inveraray Castle, late in her career on the Clyde (Robertson)

The Castle Company was taken over by Messrs G. & J. Burns in June 1846, and after the restructuring of the Clyde and West Highland services in 1851, Inverary Castle was sold, along with the old Dunoon Castle, to the newly formed Glasgow and Lochfine Steam Packet Co. They also obtained the steamboat Mary Jane from the Stornoway service of Sir James Mathieson.

Mary Jane

“The Glasgow Lochfine Steam Packet Company’s Royal Mail Steamers, Mary Jane and Inverary Castle, sail as under, from Glasgow Bridge Wharf, Outward—daily, to Ardrishaig from Glasgow, at 6.30 a.m., Greenock, about 9 a.m., on arrival of 8 a.m. train from Glasgow. Inward—daily, to Glasgow, leaving Ardrishaig; at 8.30 a.m., to arrive at Greenock to meet the 3.30 p.m. train to Glasgow. And on Wednesdays and Saturdays proceeding to Inverary; returning from Inverary on Thursdays and Mondays at 6 o’clock a.m. For hours at intermediate places see hand bills, and further information may be had the Office, 83 Jamaica Street, David Roxburgh, Glasgow, Nov. 14,”—Glasgow Sentinel, November 22, 1851

The Company also placed an order for a new steamer from Messrs Scott, Sinclair & Co., who subcontracted the building of the hull to Messrs Scott & Sons, Greenock. At 166 feet in length by 20 feet in breadth, she was a replacement for the old wooden Dunoon Castle.

“The Glasgow Lochfine Steam Packet Company’s Royal Mail Steamers, Duke of Argyll, Mary Jane and Inverary Castle, will, on and after Thursday, 14th current, sail from Glasgow Bridge Wharf daly, as under (Sunday excepted), unless prevented by weather or other unforeseen causes:—Outward—to Ardrishaig from Glasgow, 6.30 a.m.—Train to Greenock at 8 a.m.; Inward—to Glasgow, from Ardrishaig, about 8.30 a.m. On Mondays and Thursdays the Steamer proceeds to Inverary, returning on Tuesdays and Fridays at 6 a.m. Passengers by the above meet the steamer at West Tarbert on Tuesday for Port-Askaig, and on Friday for Port-Ellen. Hours at intermediate places may be had on application at the Office. All previous notices are withdrawn. David Roxburgh, 83 Jamaica Street, Glasgow, 6th Oct., 1852.”—Glasgow Herald, October 11, 1852

In February, 1857, Messrs D. Hutcheson & Co., took over the company but the Inverary Castle and Mary Jane were retained and became the stalwarts on the cargo service to Loch Fyne, supplementing the swift steamers to Tarbert and Ardrishaig, and serving the upper-Loch Fyne ports.

Inverary Castle at Rothesay in 1872 (Valentine)

Inverary Castle at Rothesay Pier in 1872. The identity of the paddle steamer anchored  in the Bay has not been establish.

Inveraray Castle at Rothesay around 1880 (Valentine)

Inverary Castle was lengthened several times over her time with Messrs Hutcheson, most recently to 173 feet in 1873 when she was renamed Inveraray Castle. In 1875, the Mary Jane was removed from the Lochfyne trade. She was lengthened, provided with a deck saloon, and renamed Glencoe, and began a long and useful life for the company sailing mainly in the Western Isles services. In 1878, Messrs David MacBrayne took over the assets of Messrs Hutcheson.

The subsequent Loch Fyne cargo service provided by Messrs MacBrayne was not considered adequate by some merchants, and in 1886, a new locally based Company, the Lochfyne & Glasgow Steam Packet Co. Ltd., brought out a competitor. The Minard Castle was a product of the Paisley yard of Messrs J. Fullerton & Co. She was a neat single-screw vessel of 140 feet and was a favourite on Lochfyneside.

“On Monday Messrs John Fullerton & Co., Paisley, launched the Minard Castle, a screw-steamer of 350 tons and 80 h.p. nominal, constructed for the Lochfyne and Glasgow Steam-Packet Company (Limited).”—GH June 20, 1882

“Trial trip.—The beautiful new steel steamer Minard Castle, lately launched by Messrs John Fullarton & Co., Merksworth Building Yard, Paisley, for the Lochfyne and Glasgow Steam Packet Company (Limited), went down the river on Wednesday on her official trial trip. Proceeding to the Gareloch, where she adjusted compasses, the steamer afterwards crossed to Greenock, where a large party were taken on board. Wemyss Bay was soon reached, and the measured mile run, when a speed of 12 knots was attained, which was considered highly satisfactory. The Minard Castle was then headed for the Kyles of Bute, calling at Tighnabruiagh, thence to Tarbert, Lochfyne, where a short stay was made, and time given for inspection of the new steamer. From thence she proceeded to Ardrishaig, where an hour was spent by the company on shore. Dinner was served in the large cabin, which is very beautifully got up, the fittings being bird’s-eye maple and black walnut, decorated with gilt trusses and cornices, Upholstered in Utrecht velvet. The engines which were fitted in by Mr Wm. Kemp, engineer, Govan worked the whole day with the greatest smoothness. The Minard Castle takes up her station at once between Glasgow and Inveraray.”—Glasgow Herald, July 14, 1882

Minard Castle at Skipness (Spencer)

The Inveraray Castle was withdrawn for scrap in 1895, and for a few years Messrs MacBrayne used different vessels in their fleet, including the paddle steamer, Brigadier, for the Loch Fyne cargo station. In the early 1900s, the screw steamer Texa was moved from the Islay cargo run to the Clyde. Texa had been bult in 1884 as the James Mutter by Messrs Scott & Co, Bowling. She was a single screw steamer, 100 feet long and was purchased by Messrs David MacBrayne at the beginning of 1889 and renamed Texa. The service was augmented by the single-screw steamer Cygnet, built in 1904 by Messrs A. & J. Inglis, and at 135 feet in length, somewhat larger than the Texa. These two steamers served Lochfyneside until the years before the first world war.

Texa at Ardrishaig

Texa at Rothesay

Texa in Rothesay Bay

enlargement of above

Texa leaving Auchenlochan

Cygnet at the side berth at Dunoon with Minard Castle on the main pier

Cygnet at Rothesay

Cygnet at Rothesay

Cygnet at Ardrishaig

Also sailing to Ardrishaig was the commercial traffic passing through the Crinan Canal. Interestingly, many of the names of the vessels involved in the early days of this service were the same as those adopted for the Clyde cargo services in the latter part of the century. Messrs Hutcheson inherited two iron paddle vessels, Lapwing and Cygnet from Messrs G. & J. Burns. Cygnet was an iron vessel built in 1848 at Port Glasgow and was 77½ feet in length by 14½ feet in breadth with her paddle wheels built into the hull. She survived until 1882 when she was wrecked in Loch Ailort. Lapwing was slightly longer at 82½ feet but was of similar design, also built at Port Glasgow by Messrs John Reid & Co., Port Glasgow. She was lost in a collision in 1859, and replaced by Maid of Lorn, renamed Plover. The Plover was also of the same design and was 84 feet in length, built by T. Wingate & Co., in 1849. She was hulked in 1883 to spend her remaining days off Row in the Gareloch.

Cygnet of 1848 in Oban Bay (Macisaac & Riddle)

Plover (ex-Maid of Lorn) in Glasgow Harbour around 1870 (Beckett)

The screw steamer Handa was built as Aros Castle in 1878 by Messrs Blackwood & Gordon, for Messrs Martin Orme & Co., and was 84 feet in length by 20 feet broad. Messrs MacBrayne acquired her in 1887 for the Oban, Tobermory and Loch Sunart cargo run.

Handa at Oban with a cargo of sheep (with thanks to Donald Meek for identification)

Handa at Salen Pier

Handa on Loch Snart

Handa at Blackmill Bay

Handa was a useful vessel and a consort, Brenda was added in 1904 from the yard of Messrs Scott & Sons, Bowling. She was 82 feet in length by 19 feet in breadth.

MacBrayne’s Brenda entering Ardrishaig Harbour

Merchants in other communities sought to maintain their business by providing their own service. The Dunoon and Rothesay Carriers had the Dunoon Castle built in 1867 to try to reduce their shipping costs, but soon found out the complexities that involved and by 1871 had sold their vessel.

Dunoon Castle waiting for a berth in 1868 (GWW)

Dunoon Castle squeezed between Eagle and Lancelot at the Broomielaw in 1868

After a period in the Sunday trade, the Dunoon Castle was purchase by Messrs J. Hill & Co. Renamed Arran, she maintained railway connections between Fairlie, Millport and Largs along with another former Sunday steamer, renamed Cumbrae. These two paddle steamers were sold in the late 1880s.

Arran, owned by Messrs Hill & Co., on an excursion to Arrochar (Adamson)

Cumbrae with Edinburgh Castle at Prince’s Pier Greenock (Valentine)

While Arran and Cumbrae were predominantly involved with passenger and parcels traffic, Messrs Hill & Co. also ran a screw steamer, Bute, on cargo runs to the islands of Bute, Cumbrae and Arran. In 1890, her service was supplemented by Bute No. 2, that had passenger accommodation in addition to the cargo carrying, but this venture was unsuccessful and she was sold the following year. The first Bute was also lost in 1891 and in 1892, was replaced by a second steamer of the same name, built by Messrs J. Fullerton & Co., of Paisley. The new Bute was built of steel and 110 feet in length.

Bute of 1892 in Rothesay Outer Harbour

Bute at Rothesay around 1900

Bute in the outer harbour at Rothesay around 1890 with Galatea and Columba at the pier

The Company returned to Messrs Fullerton in 1898 for a similar steamer, Bute 4, slightly larger at 115 feet. Bute of 1891 was sold in March 1899 to Glasgow Steam Coasters Co., Ltd., leaving Bute 4 as the sole steamer in the fleet of Messrs J. Hill & Co.

Bute 4 (Robertson)

Bute 4 at Dunoon

The Company purchased a converted yacht called Barmore in 1912, and renamed her Arran.

Arran (ex Barmore)

In the years before World War I, the cargo services on the Firth were in the hands of a number of operators: Messrs J. Hill & Co. with the Bute 4 and Arran; Messrs MacBrayne with the Texa and Cygnet; the Minard Castle, now owned by the Minard Castle Shipping Co., Ltd.; Messrs John Williamson with the paddle steamer, Benmore, serving Cowal and Bute; and Messrs Steel and Bennie, better known as tug owners, who ran the coasters Merlin and Starling and the lighters Plover and Lintie.

Willimson’s Benmore with decks piled with cargo (Robertson, Glasgow)

Merlin of Steel & Bennie in the upper harbour in 1902

Steel & Bennie’s Merlin at Dumbarton (Valentine)

Starling passing Fairfield’s in 1913

Steel and Bennie’s Plover

Steel and Bennie’s Lintie

During the war years, the maintenance of a cargo service was more important than ever, and at the end of August 1915, a new joint-stock company by the name of Clyde Cargo Steamers, 41 Robertson Street, Glasgow, with a capital of £800, in £1 shares, was announced. This company took over and rationalized the services on the Clyde, although the vessels themselves remained with their original owners. The vessels adopted a black funnel.

Bute 4 from the Fairfield Crane in the early years of WW I

MacBrayne’s Cygnet, transferred to Oban

The Arran, Texa, Merlin and Starling were all sold between 1915 and 1917, and at the end of hostilities, Cygnet was transferred by Messrs MacBrayne to run services out of Oban. Benmore was laid up in 1920 after her wartime charter to the Caledonian Steam Packet Co., and was scrapped in 1923 after catching fire. This left just Bute 4 and Minard Castle and the Steel and Bennie lighters under the centralized control to serve the cargo routes on the Clyde.

Bute 4 in Kingston Dock

Bute 4 (Ian Shannon)

Minard Castle in Rothesay Bay

Minard Castle at Rothesay

Minard Castle (Robertson)

The new Company, Clyde Cargo Steamers, began to exert some influence and purchased the screw steamer, Lapwing, from Messrs MacBrayne in 1918, but she was taken over by the Admiralty almost immediately to run services to the Scilly Isles, returning to the Clyde in 1920. Messrs Steel & Bennie’s Lintie and her trade was purchased in 1925 but quickly sold.

Messrs MacBrayne’s Lapwing at Lochboisdale in 1905

Lapwing at Rothesay in 1923

New tonnage was ordered; the first to be launched by Messrs Scott & Sons, Bowling, was the Minard.

“A new Clyde coaster.— Messrs Scott & Sons, Bowling, launched yesterday the coasting steamer Minard, 143 feet in length between perpendiculars, which they have built for the Clyde Cargo Steamers (Limited), Glasgow. The vessel which is designed for service between Clyde ports and Lochfyne, has two large cargo holds, and specially clear deck space for the transport of motor cars, etc., while she is fitted with two steam cranes for dealing with heavy lifts and for the rapid handling of cargo. Machinery is being supplied by Aitchison, Blair (Limited), Clydebank. The naming ceremony was performed by Mrs John D. Rodger, Bridge-of Weir.”—Glasgow Herald, December 2, 1925.

“Coaster Launched at Bowling.—There was launched yesterday from the yard of Messrs Scott & Sons, shipbuilders, Bowling, a nicely modelled steamer 143 ft. b.p., built to the order of the Clyde Cargo Steamers (Ltd.), Robertson Street, Glasgow, for their special carrying trade to the Clyde ports and Loch Fyne. Two large cargo holds give good stowage for general goods. The clear deck space will permit the easy transport of motor cars &c. The steamer is fitted with two deck steam cranes, for heavy lifts, and all arranged for the rapid handling of cargo. A complete installation of electric light is also fitted. The machinery is by Aitchison, Blair (Ltd.), Whitecrook Engine Works, Clydebank. On leaving the ways, the vessel was named Minard by Mrs John D. Rodger, Nithsdale, Bridge-of-Weir”—Scotsman, December 2, 1925

“The coasting steamer Minard, built by Messrs. Scott and Sons, Bowling, to the order of Clyde Cargo Steamers, Glasgow, has run successful trials at Skelmorlie, on the Clyde. The machinery, which was supplied by Messrs. Aitchison, Blair (Limited), Clydebank, ran throughout without a hitch.”—Liverpool Journal of Commerce, February 4, 1926

Minard off Innellan

Minard at Inveraray

A second steamer, a new Arran, was launched from the Ardrossan Dockyard Co., at Irvine.

“A new Clyde coaster.—The Ayrshire Dockyard Company, Irvine, launched yesterday the cargo steamer Arran, which they have built for the Clyde Cargo Steamers, Limited, Glasgow. The vessel which is intended for the company’s general cargo trade, has been fitted with special appliances for the handling of cargo. The propelling machinery is being supplied by Messrs. Aitchison, Blair (Limited) Clydebank. The naming ceremony was performed by Mrs. H. Leigh, Glasgow.”—Glasgow Herald, January 27, 1926

“Arran.—The trial trip of the steamer Arran was run on the Firth of Clyde on Wednesday, 10th March. The vessel was recently built for Clyde Cargo Steamers, Ltd., Glasgow. by the Ayrshire Dockyard Co., Ltd., Irvine, and engined by Aitchison, Blair, Ltd., Clydebank. She is of the raised quarter deck type, being specially designed and fitted for the owners’ general cargo trade. A speed of fully 11 knots was obtained on trial.—Liverpool Journal of Commerce, March 15, 1926

Arran of 1926

Arran at Inveraray in 1932 (Judges)

In 1926, Lapwing was renamed Cowal. Minard Castle was laid up in Bowling Harbour and sold for scrap.

Cowal on the Firth

Enlargement of above

“Thrill for tourists.—Clyde Pleasure Steamer in Collision.—The Clyde pleasure steamer. Queen Alexandra (785 tons), with 500 passengers aboard, collided with the Clyde cargo steamer, Arran, off Ardlamont Point yesterday, and was damaged about the bows. The passengers were landed at Tighnabruach, in the Kyles of Bute. Nobody was injured, but several women fainted. The Queen Alexandra afterwards proceeded to Greenock under her own steam. The coasting steamer was not badly damaged, and went on to Rothesay. The Queen Alexandra was on her usual dally ran to Inverary when the accident happened.”—Northern Whig, July 24, 1926

Ardyne, similar in many respects to Minard, was added in 1928 from Messrs Scott & Sons, Bowling.

“Ardyne, screw steamer, 230 tons; Scott & Sons, Bowling, for the Clyde Cargo Steamers.”—Scotsman, April 30 1928

Ardyne leaving Ardnadam

Ardyne at Rothesay

On Hogmany 1932, the Arran ran aground on Barmore island in Loch Fyne, and became a total loss.

“On rocks near Tarbert.—Glasgow vessel likely to become a wreck.—The s.s. Arran, of the Clyde Cargo Steamers (Ltd.), Glasgow, when on the inward journey from Ardrishaig to the Clyde and intermediate ports, struck submerged rocks off Barmore Island, north of Tarbert Harbour, between six and seven o’clock on Saturday morning. It was dark at the time, and a south-easterly gale was blowing.

“As day was dawning the caretaker at Stonefield Castle, seeing the vessel’s plight, notified the company’s representative at Tarbert by telephone, and he, with other shore employees awaiting the vessel’s arrival, hastened overland to the scene. It was evident that the vessel, after grounding, had been badly holed, as, in spile of the flowing tide, she was unable to be refloated only a short distance from the shore. The crew, after doing everything possible, were obliged to leave the stranded vessel after securing their belongings.

“A tug was sent from the Clyde, but before her arrival the Arran slipped off the rock. The crew, with the exception of the captain, who is remaining at Tarbert, travelled to their homes in Glasgow in the afternoon. It is understood that the vessel’s cargo consisted principally of returned empties, which, along with other material, were later being washed ashore. The Arran has a gross tonnage of 132.”—Scotsman January 2 1933

“The Arran, 132 tons gross, built in 1926, owned by the Clyde Cargo Steamers, Ltd., is ashore on Barmore Island, near Tarbert, Argyll, and is probably a total loss. She is insured on a value of £5,000.”—Liverpool Journal of Commerce, January 3, 1933

A replacement vessel was immediately ordered. The new Arran was launched on the last day of June.

“Ardrossan Dockyard Ltd.—Arran.—Ardrossan Dockyard, Ltd., launched on Monday the single-screw steamer Arran, built for Clyde Cargo Steamers, Ltd., Glasgow. The new vessel, which is intended for trading between Glasgow and Arran and other Firth of Clyde ports, is 120 ft. in length, and is designed to carry 200 tons deadweight. Her engines, which are capable of developing 480 i.h.p., are supplied by Messrs. Aitchison, Blair, Ltd., Clydebank.”—Liverpool Journal of Commerce, August 3, 1933

“Launch at Ardrossan.—Ardrossan Dockyard (Ltd.) launched yesterday the coasting steamer Arran, built to the order of Clyde Cargo Steamers (Ltd.), Glasgow, for trading between Glasgow and Firth of Clyde ports. The new vessel, which is 120 feet in length, is designed to carry 200 tons dead-weight, and her engines are supplied by Aitchison, Blair (Ltd.), Clydebank. Miss Rita Rodger, sister of Mr J. Rodger, managing director of the owning company, performed the naming ceremony”—Scotsman Tues Aug 1, 1933

The new Arran in the Kyles of Bute

A little advertising piece for the Company was printed in the Liverpool Journal of Commerce, probably coinciding with some paid advertisements.

“Clyde Cargo Steamers, Ltd.—In 1915 a number of cargo shipping interests on the Clyde were amalgamated to form the Clyde Cargo Steamers Ltd., whose offices are now situated at 171 and 175, Clyde-street, Glasgow. This unification of interests has resulted in the provision of regular cargo services from Glasgow and Greenock to other ports of the Clyde and adjacent lochs.

“The steamers leave Glasgow (Kingston Dock) about 6 a.m. each week day with daily services to Ardrishaig, Millport, Tarbert and Kyles of Bute, and each Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday for Brodick and other Arran ports, the calls at each of the ports being made on the same day as the steamers leave Glasgow. There is a daily express steamer service from Glasgow at 2 a.m. and Greenock about 9 a.m. direct to Rothesay, and another daily express direct service of steamers from Glasgow at 4 a.m. and Greenock about 9 a.m. to Dunoon. In addition, the Clyde Cargo Steamers Ltd. operate daily motor lorry cargo services from Glasgow to points in Argyllshire for the conveyance of freight which requires to be delivered earlier than would be possible by ship.”—Liverpool Journal of Commerce, June 23, 1933

Advert, 1933

Bute 4 was retired and broken up at Ardrossan in 1935.

In 1936, the Caledonian Steam Packet Co., Ltd., placed an order with Messrs William Denny & Co., Dumbarton, for a small cargo steamer, Arran Mail. Built toimprove mail communications with the island from Ardrossan, at just 95 feet in length she had limited cargo capacity and could accommodate a small number of passengers. Her day began at 6:45 a.m. sailing from Ardrossan with mail, newspapers and cargo to Brodick, relieving the regular steamer service.

Arran Mail

In March, 1937, the Company took over the Campbeltown & Glasgow Steam Packet Company’s two remaining steamers, Davaar and Dalriada, and was renamed, the Clyde & Campbeltown Shipping Co., Ltd. The new company adopted a red, black-topped funnel colouring for all the vessels. After the outbreak of war in 1939, Davaar was laid up and Dalriada continued in service with a black funnel and upper-works. Davaar was briefly brought back, after Dalriada was damage in a collision in January 194-, but the service was ended in the middle of March that year and the two ships were requisioned by the Admiralty as block-ships.

Davaar of Gourock early in 1939

Dalriada with her new red black-topped funnel livery

Dalriada in wartime colors, 1939

After the second world war, Arran, Minard, and Ardyne continued in service. At the end of 1949, they exchanged their red funnels for the yellow with black tops of the Caledonian Steam Packet Company. In 1951, Arran Mail was found inadequate for the cargo service to Arran, and was sold, being replaced by the Arran. The transport of motor vehicles was a rapidly increasing part of the trade. The Ardyne was used mostly on the Campbeltown route, with the Minard servicing Rothesay and Lochfyne.

Arran in Rothesay Bay, 1951

Arran off Rothesay, 1951

The advent of the purpose-built car-ferries, Arran, Bute, and Cowal, in 1953 brought changes. The Arran was renamed Kildonan to allow the naming of the new car ferry. In 1955, both Minard and Ardyne were withdrawn and scrapped. The Kildonan lasted a few more years, but when the Arran car ferry, Glen Sannox, was brought into service in 1957, she too was withdrawn and scrapped.

The Broomielaw in August, 1951 (Ralston)

The Broomielaw with Lairdsburn, Lairdshill, Lairds Loch, Lairds Moor and Lairds Ben and Royal Ulsterman with Baron Ailsa, the Sloan steamers Beauley and Orchy, and Minard. In a remarkable piece of detection, the shipping historian Colin Campbell deduced that this photograph was taken on Monday the 27th of August, 1951, just after Minard passed Govan at 1.47 p.m., bound for Kingston Dock.

Enlargement of the above showing Minard heading for Kingston Dock (Ralston)

Kildonan at Brodick Pier with the puffer Roman at the Jetty

In some instances, my identification of some of the cargo steamers may be suspect. I would appreciate any corrections or comments.

Duckworth, C. L. D.; Langmuir, G. E. “Clyde River and Other Steamer, Brown, Son & Ferguson, Ltd, Glasgow, 1990.

Steel & Bennie Limited, Centenary, 1856-1956, Glasgow, 1956