This is the first in a series of essays on the steamers that sailed on Sundays in the mid-Victorian era. Early developments on Sunday sailing were recounted in essays in 2015 featuring the Emperor and the Battle of Garelochhead and the addition of more Sunday steamers into the business. This essay takes over the story starting in 1860. The first photograph is the wonderful view of the Broomielaw in 1856 and gives a good idea of the steamers of the day. Two of the steamers featured in this article are depicted. The Petrel is the two-funneled vessel with narrow white bands in the center of the photograph and the Cardiff Castle is one of the steamers on the opposite bank, with a single black funnel and narrow white band.
The advent of Sunday sailing for pleasure on the Clyde with the Emperor in 1853 was not well received by the Established Church, and more particularly, the Free Church, backed by the civil authorities and a variety of organizations supporting temperance or those opposed to any activities, save worship, on Sundays. Strict Sabbatarian principles forbade using Sunday for work and frivolity even though the toiling population of Glasgow worked long hours during the week, extending into the mid-afternoon on Saturday. The proprietors of the Emperor extolled the oportunity for these workers to escape the grime and smoke of the city to experience fresh sea-breezes on the one day in the week they had free.
Sunday licensing laws, encapsulated in the Forbes-Mackenzie Act, also dating from 1853, closed Scotland’s public Houses at 11 p.m. during the week and all-day on Sundays but left a loophole where hotel bars could remain open to serve bona-fide travelers, defined as those who had traveled more than three miles. There is little doubt that this attracted a segment of the population who traveled by steamer on Sunday to take advantage of hotels in the various calling places and resulted in much public opposition.
The Act did not apply to steamboats and it was soon realized by publicans that there was money to be made by using a steamer as a floating shebeen on Sundays. In 1858, Mr Alexander Watson who had shipping interests in Glasgow and Belfast bought the steamer Petrel and went into partnership with Henry Sharp, a spirit merchant from the Trongate and John Brand, a dance-hall owner from the Saltmarket to sail the vessel on Sundays. A third steamer, the twin-hulled Alliance, property of Mr George Mills of Bowling, joined the ranks of the Sunday steamers for the start of the 1859 season. The Cardiff Castle, one of the old Castle Company steamers dating from 1844, that had lately been sailing on the Shannon, was purchased by Mr Alexander Watson and his cronies and began sailing on Sundays in June of 1859 making the fourth of the “Sunday breakers” as they were called.
The following year, 1860, the Alliance was withdrawn to sail for a time on the Caledonian Canal, and the Petrel was sent to Belfast where she met up with her old stable-mate, the Pilot, on the Belfast to Bangor excursion. Even there was some conflict as the pier at Bangor was leased for the exclusive use by one or other of the steamers at different times. The following year saw the Petrel switch places with another Clyde steamer, the Hero.
Banner of Ulster, April 17, 1860
Petrel (Alasdair Macfarlane, Evening Citizen)
On the Clyde, the remaining two Sunday steamers, Emperor and Cardiff Castle, sailed during the 1860 season. Prevailing interests in the city forced the steamers to start and end at the berth on the south side of the river, farthest from the city center, maximizing the inconvenience to the Sunday trippers.
“Sunday steamers—On Sabbath, two steamers went down the river—the Cardiff Castle and Emperor. The former—its second Sunday trip this season—proceeded to Rothesay, and the latter—its first trip—went to Largs. The Cardiff had a much larger cargo than last Sabbath.”—Paisley Herald, May 5, 1860
Glasgow Herald, June 16 1860
Glasgow Herald, June 29, 1860
Glasgow Herald, June 29, 1860
The Sunday traffic was susceptible to the vagaries of the West of Scotland weather. Rain meant low custom, but in general the steamers attracted good crowds. During the week, they sailed on charters or in advertised sailings where the steamer was sometimes not named in the hope that anyone turning up would board the steamer despite their prejudices. It was notable that the Emperor stayed away from Sunday sailing in the middle of the season, perhaps attempting to rehabilitate with a daily service to Garelochhead, her old route.
Glasgow Herald, July 13 1860
Glasgow Herald, July 13 1860
The following year, both Cardiff Castle and Emperor resumed their sailing on Sunday. It is worth reiterating that the operating principles between the owners of the Emperor and those of the Cardiff Castle differed. Those of the Emperor thought of themselves as pioneers in breaking down the barriers to allow working men fresh air and pleasure on the one day of the week they were not confined to the city. The availability of alcohol on the steamer was of secondary importance. The owners of the Cardiff Castle viewed their enterprise as an extension of the public house. Selling alcohol within the Glasgow city boundaries was not allowed on the steamers but once free of the city, alcohol could be sold on board. The difference in operating principles may be largely semantic as the outcomes were similar in the eyes of the public.
“Sunday steamers.—The steamer Cardiff Castle came down the river on Sunday midday, but only proceeded as far Gourock, whence she returned to Glasgow in the afternoon. There were very few passengers on board. This is the first Sunday trip of the season.”—Greenock Advertiser, April 9, 1861
Local authorities had some facility to impose regulations to limit the provision of alcohol within their jurisdictions. Catching the culprits was, however, not easy, and generally involved placing spies or informants on board.
“Spirit traffic in Sunday steamers.—At the Clyde Police Court on Monday before Bailie Ure, Henry Sharp, spirit merchant, Trongate, pleaded guilty to a charge of contravening the harbor regulations, in having, on Sunday, 5th inst., sold whisky and ale to fourteen persons on board the Cardiff Castle, of Glasgow, of which he is part owner and steward. He was fined £3.”—Paisley Herald, May 18, 1861
At the end of May, 1861, the Petrel returned from Belfast, offering cheap sailings to Rothesay during the week. This was during the American Civil War when many of the best Clyde steamboats were being bought up to run the Union blockade of the Confederate ports. Likely there was money to be made on the Clyde during the week without resorting to the Sunday trade. However, over the next year or so, Petrel returned to the Bangor trade for brief periods as traffic demanded.
Glasgow Herald, June 15, 1861
Glasgow Herald, August 26, 1861
The season of 1862 was Emperor’s last in the Sunday trade. For the early part of the year, Sundays excepted, she was on charter to the owner’s of the Ruby, sailing to Garelochhead. The following year she was renamed Aquilla and resumed sailing to Garelochhead, Sundays excepted. The Cardiff Castle sailed during the week offering cheap sailing to Rothesay. In the early part of the season while on charter, fares were again as low as 3d for the steerage.
“Sunday Steamer. —The Sunday passenger traffic on the river has been resumed for the season. The Cardiff Castle came down from Glasgow on Sunday, and proceeded to Gourock, but notwithstanding the great beauty of the day, there were few persons on board. “—Greenock Advertiser, April 8, 1862
Glasgow Herald, May 13, 1862
Bad behavior on the Sunday steamers continued to make headlines and colour the view of the public.
“Riotous conduct on a Sunday steamer.—On the arrival of the Cardiff Castle at Glasgow harbour on Sunday evening, a boilermaker belonging to Greenock, named Robert M‘lntyre, was taken to the Clyde Police Office in an intoxicated state, on a charge of having committed an unprovoked assault upon one of the passengers on board, while the steamer was sailing up the river between Greenock and Dumbarton. M‘lntyre, on the steamer’s downward trip, had gone on board at Greenock, and left her at Gourock, where he seems to have become intoxicated. He rejoined the vessel on her upward trip, with the intention of returning to Greenock, but he omitted to land when the Cardiff Castle touched at that port. For some time he and several others of his party conducted themselves in a riotous and disorderly manner, and at last he made an unprovoked assault upon a foreigner, a cook on board a Brazilian barque lying in the harbour, striking him severely and knocking him down. One of the hapless man’s eyes seems to be completely destroyed, as the ball is divided and otherwise injured, so much so that Dr Milner, who examined it, is of opinion that it will remain permanently useless. He also thinks that the injury must have been inflicted by means of some instrument. M‘lntyre will be brought before the Clyde Police Court to-day. We understand that there was great deal of disorderliness, caused by the intoxicated state of some of the passengers on board the steamer on Sunday, during its return trip. Many of the more peaceably disposed passengers, after its arrival at Glasgow, went to the Clyde Police Office and lodged complaints against the authors of the commotion, speaking “bitterly of the uproar in the vessel” on her way up the river, but the disorderly passengers, with the exception of M‘Intyre, made their escape.— Glasgow Herald., April 26, 1862
Glasgow Herald, July 5, 1862
“Greenock.— We had yesterday a very welcome change to delightful weather, with a smart breeze from the northwest, all the more welcome after the recent heavy rain. The Sunday steamers were yesterday filled, not to say crowded, with passengers.”—North British Daily Mail, June 16, 1862
Glasgow Herald, July 26, 1862
The Petrel, still not sailing again on Sunday, was engaged through the winter of 1862-1863 in the Rothesay and the Kyles of Bute station where she frequently picked up herring for the Glasgow market. Towards the end of January she met with an accident.
“Steamer ashore.—The Petrel, (s,) while proceeding through the Kyles of Bute, on her passage to Tynabruich, on Thursday evening, met with a serious accident. She was about the north point of Bute, when, the night being very dark, she suddenly struck the land, and it was found that she had gone ashore upon one of the islets at the mouth of Loch Ridden. A hole was knocked in the bottom, and she immediately began to make water. Information was sent to Rothesay for the purpose of repairing the injuries, which is in course of being done. She is lying with her bow high and dry, but abaft the paddle-box the water is level with her decks. The few passengers who were on board were safely put on shore immediately after the occurrence. The contents of a number of sacks of oatmeal which formed a portion of her deck cargo were destroyed. The owner left this on Saturday with a party of carpenters to get the damage to her bottom repaired, and two lighters have since gone to assist in raising her.”—Greenock Advertiser, January 20, 1863
“Steamer Petrel. —This steamer has been got off the rock in the Kyles of Bute upon which she has been lying for the last fortnight, and brought to Rothesay. Her hull seems to have sustained little damage.”—Greenock Advertiser, January 31, 1863
Petrel was repaired and continued on her weekday schedule sailing to Rothesay for the season.
Through the 1863 season, Cardiff Castle carried on the Sunday sailings on her own. In the early part of the season, she sailed only as far as Gourock, but this was later extended to Rothesay. During the week, she was regularly sailing to Rothesay for 1s cabin and 6d steerage, leaving the Broomielaw at 9:00 in the morning and taking in the Cowal piers that were not visited on Sundays.
“Sunday Steamer.— On Sunday the steamer Cardiff Castle came down the river and proceeded as far as Gourock. She had a large number of passengers, many of whom landed here.”—Greenock Advertiser, April 14, 1863
“Greenock.—The Sunday steamer Cardiff Castle, on her trip yesterday from Glasgow to Gourock and back, had the largest freight of passengers she has yet had this season As before, the great body of them landed here, and a goodly number embarked at Greenock for Gourock.”—North British Daily Mail, May 4, 1863
“Greenock—The Sunday steamer Cardiff Castle made her usual trip, yesterday, from Glasgow to Rothesay and back, and was very crowded with passengers. A very large number landed at Greenock, and a goodly number embarked here for the run to Rothesay and back.”—North British Daily Mail, June 15, 1863
Glasgow Herald, June 27, 1863
Glasgow Herald, June 27, 1863
“Greenock.—The weather yesterday being still fine, the Sunday steamer Cardiff Castle, on her trip from Glasgow to Rothesay and back, was more crowded this she ever was before. While discharging passengers at our quay on the way down, several of the circular windows in the sides were entirely under water on the port side. The thing looked dangerous and yet everything seemed to go on safely. A very large number of passengers landed here, going on board again on the steamer’s return in the evening.”—North British Daily Mail, July 20, 1863
The new year, 1864, saw the Petrel involved in a number of collisions.
“Collision the river.—On Tuesday the screw steamer Laurel, from Glasgow to Sligo, was in collision with the Rothesay steamer Petrel, the latter having her starboard and paddle-box carried away, and the Laurel having her dead light and cat-head stove in.”—Greenock Telegraph, February 12, 1864
“Greenock: The weather.—On Saturday the drum storm signal was hoisted on the pole at the steamboat quay, and during Sabbath, and more particularly yesterday, we had a visit of a severe storm, accompanied with a continuous fall of snow. The wind here was north easterly and very cold. About mid-day it blew fiercely, and it was with difficulty the steamers could touch at the quay. The Petrel, which came out yesterday for the first time since she got her paddlebox torn away, made a narrow escape of having it again torn off yesterday while calling here. The storm took off towards the afternoon. The hills around this are covered with snow.
“Additional Steamer on the Rothesay Station.—during the past few months there have been three sailings on the Rothesay station each way, at seven and ten a.m.. and two p.m. from Glasgow, and a morning, mid-day, and afternoon steamer from Rothesay. Yesterday an addition was made to the number by the Petrel taking the 10 a.m. trip, while the Victory, which was on that run, has commenced an extra sailing from Glasgow at 3 p.m.. and Greenock at 5 pm. on arrival of the 4 p.m. train, and returning for the 10.30 up train to Glasgow. This will be felt a great boon to many gentlemen, who could not get conveniently away before four o’clock.”—Glasgow Morning Journal, March 8, 1864
Petrel this year was sailing on Sunday early in the season, possibly as a last minute charter for the advertised Cardiff Castle.
Glasgow Herald, April 16, 1864
“Sunday Steamer. —The Sunday steamer Petrel came down the river on her first trip for the season upon Sunday, and proceeded to Gourock, returning in the afternoon. She had about 150 passengers.”—Greenock Advertiser, April 19, 1864
As was usual for the Sunday steamer, the first few Sundays restricted sailing to Gourock, but the trip was shortly thereafter extended to Rothesay for the season.
Glasgow Herald, April 29, 1864
Petrel spent May and June drumming up business at Belfast for the Bangor route in anticipation of the arrival of the new Erin that was completing on the Clyde. By the end of July, she was back on the Clyde, sailing on the 7 a.m. run from Kames to Rothesay at 8:30 a.m. and returning to Rothesay and the Kyles at 3 p.m. during the week.
Northern Whig, May 17, 1864
“The New Erin.—We understand that the new steamer Erin, constructed for the Messrs. Brown, for the Belfast and Bangor trade, has had her boilers, engines, &c., fitted into her, and that she then steamed down to Port-Glasgow, to be finally completed by the builders there. During the trip her engines worked steadily, and gave every satisfaction. Her trial trip will take place on Monday next, and she may reach Belfast on Tuesday or Wednesday. She is described as one of the most beautiful boats of her class.”—Belfast Morning News, July 1, 1864
Erin leaving Bangor around 1880
When she returned to the Clyde, Petrel resumed her weekday sailings to Rothesay and the Kyles of Bute, with no exposure on Sunday.
Glasgow Herald, July 28, 1864
Cardiff Castle was sailing to Largs during the week and was the lone Sunday steamer for the remainder of the season, sailing to Rothesay at her usual time of 10:30 a.m.
“The weather for the last few days has been exceedingly mild and balmy, the biting east wind having changed and pleasure seekers seem to be taking full advantage of it, judging by the number of well-dressed respectable passengers who came down in the Cardiff Castle on Sunday, and also by the number of family parties who are rushing frantically to ’buss or steamer in the morning, with carefully concealed flasks, and corpulent baskets, unto which the juvenile members of the party cast many an eager, anxious look, evidently measuring the day’s delights by the safety of them contents.”—Greenock Telegraph, May 17, 1864
Glasgow Herald, June 24, 1864
While the prevailing sentiment was against the running of the steamer on Sunday, there was a significant progressive voice led by the Glasgow Sentinel newspaper.
“The Sunday steamer on the Clyde.—Notwithstanding the persecuting efforts religious Sabbatarian bigots and the equally oppressive means adopted the Clyde Trustees and their subordinate officers for several years, the Sunday steamer on the Clyde has become a permanent institution—a necessity of this age of progressive civilisation. The Cardiff Castle, which is at present the only Sunday steamer, sails every Sunday morning from about the extreme west end of the south pier regularly at half-past ten o’clock for Rothesay, touching at Renfrew, Bowling, Greenock, and Gourock, at all of which places the Cardiff Cattle receives and lands passengers on her down and return voyages. We have said that the starting point of the steamer it from about the west end of the south pier, because we understand that those having authority, or assuming to have authority, in such matters seldom appoint the same berth to this vessel; and her passengers are treated more like contrabands or blockade-runners than the respectable citizens of Glasgow, on their way to their families at the coast, or in search of the refreshing sea-breeze, and on Sunday last the Cardiff Castle was so berthed, or rather jambed stem and stern between two vessels, as to annoy and even endanger passengers in working her out into the channel. As a climax such absurd persecution by those whose duties are to conserve the rights and protect the lieges, the Sunday steamer is compelled to discharge he r passengers, many of whom are women and children, at the place from which she starts in the morning, after which she is permitted to steam up to the usual steam-boat mooring place, near the Broomielaw Bridge, while her passengers are compelled to travel the distance, which is about a mile—and all this annoyance merely because the people dare take the benefit of a Sabbath day’s journey by steamboat to the coast for enjoyment of fresh air, beautiful scenery, family affections, friendly visits, and social recreations, which their trades, occupations, or business prevent them from enjoying on other days. It is surely time that the persecution for Sunday recreations should be abolished.”—Glasgow Sentinel, June 25, 1864
“The Sunday steamer Cardiff Castle had a very large cargo of passengers on board on her trip from Glasgow to Rothesay and back.”—North British Daily Mail, July 18, 1864
“River Bailie Court—(Before Bailie Wm. Brown). Caution to Masters of Steamers.—Wm. Ewing, master of the steamer Cardiff Castle, for having contravened the laws for the regulation of the river traffic, on 7th inst., was fined in £5. It appeared that while the Cardiff Castle was sailing up the river on the day referred to, the s.s. Valetta came up and passed her between North Perch and Bowling, and the speed of the Cardiff Castle not having been abated at the time according to the requirements of the regulations, a collision might have taken place.”—Glasgow Saturday Post, August 20, 1864
Glasgow Herald, August 20, 1864
By 1865, the American Civil War was over and the demand for steamers to run the blockade no longer took the best boats from the Clyde. Vessels being built on speculation as blockade runners were quickly converted, with the addition of the latest passenger comforts such as deck saloons, to run on the Clyde and other rivers. Consequently, new ventures were needed for the older vessels that had been carrying the bulk of the trade in the previous two or three years.
Glasgow Herald, April 15, 1865
Glasgow Herald, April 15, 1865
On the Clyde, the Sunday traffic was being carried out again by Cardiff Castle only, but plans were being made to sail the Petrel on the Sabbath.
“Sunday steamboats.—The fine weather which has set in for the last two weeks has induced a large number of respectable tradesmen, who during the week are confined to business, to take a trip on Sunday to some of the lovely places on the Firth of Clyde, even at the risk of being denounced Sabbath breakers by the Scribes and Pharisees. Notwithstanding the persecuting spirit still manifested the Clyde Trustees in compelling those in search of pure air and enjoyment on Sunday travel to the south side pier before they can get a steamer, yet a large and respectable number got board the Cardiff Castle last Sunday morning half-past ten o’clock, for Renfrew, Bowling, Dumbarton, Greenock, Gourock, and Rothesay, where she arrived at two o’clock, and again started on her return voyage at a quarter past three, taking in passengers at the places named, and arriving at the berth about seven o’clock with her living freight of refreshed invigorated denizens. The Cardiff Castle has undergone considerable improvements in her machinery and other internal accommodation. Mr Henry Sharp has again undertaken to supply the Cardiff Castle passengers with such material and spiritual comforts as they may require while on board, of first-rate qualities at moderate prices. We also understand that Mr Wilson, the enterprising and independent proprietor of the Cardiff Castle, is now preparing the swift and well-known steamer Petrel to start as a Sunday boat, probably to start an hour after the Cardiff Castle, but on a different route, so as to accommodate parties to Largs as well Rothesay, for which Mr Wilson deserves public sympathy and support.”—Glasgow Sentinel, April 29, 1865
Petrel had been sailing on the Rothesay and Kyles of Bute station and latterly to Largs, Millport and Arran, filling the void created by the absence of the M‘Kellar fleet. Mr Watson, her owner, was awaiting the arrival of his new steamer, Rothesay Castle. However, Petrel experienced some mechanical difficulties in the middle of July. She was back on station in August.
Glasgow Herald, June 10, 1865
Glasgow Herald, June 10, 1865
“The Rothesay steamer Petrel was coming down the river yesterday morning when part of the machinery gave way, causing her to remain at our quay for several hours till the damage was repaired. The Wemyss Bay steamer Kyles has been lying in the West Harbour, for the past few days, getting some repairs to the paddles executed.”—Greenock Advertiser, July 13, 1865
Glasgow Herald, July 13, 1865
Glasgow Herald, July 13, 1865
Glasgow Herald, July 15, 1865
“Greenock—Glasgow Fair holidays.—The river boats on Saturday were well filled, notwithstanding the extremely boisterous character of the weather. Below the Cloch the sea was greatly agitated, consequent upon the half gale of southerly wind which prevailed. The pleasure of “deep sea” excursionists was materially affected thereby, and very few escaped sea sickness who travelled any distance below Dunoon, The steamer Petrel, Captain M‘Kinlay, unfortunately broke her paddle shaft, below the Cloch, while on her outward trip to Arran, The passengers were necessarily somewhat alarmed at the circumstance, but another steamer took the Petrel in tow, and brought her back to Greenock, where the excursionists were landed. Much discontent was expressed by the passengers owing to their fares not having been returned, and no boat being found to carry them to their proposed destination. The weather moderated a little towards evening, however; nevertheless, the appearance of the majority of the excursionists bore decided evidence of the absence of personal comfort, together with much fatigue. Our streets were a little busier than usual, but the class of holiday-seekers who visited the town appeared to be of the more humble class. A considerable amount of drunkenness. was witnessed on our streets, but so far as we have learned no accident to life occurred.”—Glasgow Herald, July 17, 1865
“New River Steamer.—On Friday afternoon, a new paddle steamer named the Rothesay Castle went down the river, and proceeded over to Gareloch to adjust her compasses. She is the third steamer of that name built within five years, the one preceding her having gone out to Dixie and the other, Messrs Caird’s, having left for India. The Rothesay Castle No. 3 came into existence without much introductory notice; and very few knew on Saturday, when she took the station, when or where she sprung from. We understand she was only launched a few weeks since, and is owned by Mr Watson, the proprietor of the Arran Castle, Hero, Petrel, and Cardiff Castle, who has now a large fleet of steamers.”—Greenock Advertiser, July 18, 1865
Rothesay Castle (Alasdair Macfarlane, Evening Citizen)
Glasgow Herald, August 12, 1865
That winter, Petrel was again sailing to Rothesay and the Kyles of Bute in consort with the Rothesay Castle, but the trade was not sufficiently remunerative to continue. Mr Watson, the owner of these vessels was considering new vistas for his expanded fleet.
Glasgow Herald, December 19, 1865
“Steamboat Sales.—The steamers Kyles and Bute, employed during last summer on the Wemyss Bay route, have been sold to the Thames Saloon Steamboat Company (Limited), the Kyles came down the river yesterday and proceeded direct to London. It is stated that the steamboat Nelson has been purchased by a limited liability company, which is about to establish a ferry traffic betwixt Greenock and Helensburgh. The steamer Victory, employed on the Wemyss Bay and Rothesay station, has been withdrawn for repair, the Arran Castle having been chartered to occupy her place. Mr. Watson has withdrawn the Arran Castle and Petrel from the Kyles of Bute daily route, the trade having proved unremunerative. Captain Stewart is stated to be getting two handsome river steamers built for the Rothesay trade in place of the Victory sold, and the Alma, which is to be broken up.”—Glasgow Herald, January 11, 1866
Alexander Watson, the owner of the steamers Petrel, Hero, Cardiff Castle, Arran Castle, and the new Rothesay Castle, together with his partner from the Belfast and Bangor trade, John Brown, anxious to find profitable employment for their vessels, decided to take the Arran Castle to the Thames. Unfortunately, she was lost on the voyage with all hands, including Mr. Watson, most likely through a boiler explosion in the Irish sea.
“Steamer Arran Castle—The main details, as hurriedly reported in our yesterday’s issue, regarding the supposed loss of the steamer Arran Castle, have been, so far, corroborated by a few further items of intelligence. The captain of the Cork and Waterford steamer, which, as we have already stated, spoke with the Arran Castle off Dublin on Thursday week, is of opinion that the vessel was making for Kingstown; and later on the same day, it is said, another steamer saw the Arran Castle proceeding on her voyage off the Wicklow Light, and this seems to be the last definite information as to the vessel or crew. Since the arrival of the Jasper, yesterday morning, other two steam-tugs, the Ruby and the Flying Childers, have reached Greenock. The former reports having passed a great quantity of floating material, near the locality where the Jasper secured the portions of wreck, including a piece of a mast, which Captain Young unhesitatingly identified as belonging to the vessel which he formerly commanded. In the course of yesterday the said portion of mast was also seen by the former pilot of the Arran Castle, also by the master of the Hero (another of Captain Watson’s boats), and the captain’s brother-in-law, who all corroborate the opinion of Captain Young as to its identity. The Flying Childers managed to secure a considerable quantity of fine wood-work, which has the appearance of having formed portion of a steamer’s saloon, also one-half of a vessel’s wheel, ship’s doors, a table, &c. Two schooners were also observed to be engaged near the spot, picking up wreck-material, and possibly some clue may soon be had as to the definite identity of these portions of wreck. The schooners have not yet been heard from.
“The general impression is that the Arran Castle must have foundered during the night between Thursday and Friday last, or that she had been in collision with some other vessel. On the night specified there was a pretty severe gale, and the weather outside for some time past a been reported “very severe,” even by those most accustomed to seafaring life. As we now share the general fears in reference to the safety of the Arran Castle and those on board, we may give a few particulars regarding this (may we term it?) ill-fated vessel. The Arran Castle, built by Messrs. Kirkpatrick & M‘Intyre, Port-Glasgow, was launched in the autumn of 1864. Her gross tonnage was 224, and her engines were 130 horse power. She was engined by Messrs. Rankin & Blackmore, Greenock, and was put upon the Rothesay and Arran station in the same year. She was owned by Messrs. Watson, of Glasgow, and Brown, of Bangor. Both of these gentlemen, as we mentioned yesterday, were on board when she left our harbour on Wednesday week to proceed to London. The steamer, intended originally as a blockader, proved from her sailing qualities to be a favourite during the brief period she ran on the Clyde; and a short time ago her owners resolved, as a speculation, to place her on the Thames, as a passenger steamer between London and Gravesend. A large saloon deck was erected on board by Messrs. Darroch & Gillespie, Kinning-place, and the Arran Castle left Glasgow harbour on Wednesday the 21st inst. The distance from Clyde to London is about 800 miles, and had all gone well she might have reached her destination in the course of Saturday last. There are supposed to have been about twenty souls on board. The principal names we have already given; the crew, as well as the pilot, are not yet known in this quarter, as they were brought from Ireland by one of the owners, Captain Brown.
“We have this afternoon learned that a party of twelve gentlemen had arranged to accompany their friends in the vessel round to London, but, missing the train to Greenock, the Arran Castle set out without them, thereby rendering the loss of life—if loss there has been—less lamentable.
“The Journal of this morning gives the following particulars of the principal parties who sailed with the Arran Castle. It will be seen that the statement is worded on the presumption—only, we fear, too well grounded—that all have perished:—
“Mr. Watson had in his younger days been at sea, but afterwards began as a boot and shoemaker in Glasgow. He commenced the steamboat ownership about 8 years ago with shares in the Petrel. He afterwards became part owner of the Cardiff Castle, and for some years was prominently before the public during the agitation against the Sunday sailing—the Petrel and Cardiff being both engaged in that trade. He afterwards purchased the steamer Hero, and in 1863 got built, for himself and others, the Rothesay Castle. That steamer he sold for the blockade. In 1864 he had the Arran Castle built, and last year another Rothesay Castle, so that he was managing proprietor of no fewer than five river steamers. He was a shrewd business man, and seldom have steamboat owners risen so fast as he has done. He leaves a widow and three children, who are staying at Dunoon. His son Alexander, who was with him, was his oldest son, a fine, intelligent lad.
“Captain Brown leaves a wife and family residing at Bangor. During the summer he very often had one of Mr. Watson’s steamers round on the Belfast and Bangor trade, the Hero being there for some time last year.
“Mr. Wighton, the manager of the steamers, has left a wife and family.
“William and James Campbell were brothers—both young. William had the stewardship of the Arran Castle and Rothesay Castle when plying on the river. James, he kept on the Rothesay Castle, and a young brother, Andrew, in the Arran, but the two elder brothers went round with the Arran to London for the trip —the younger brother remaining at home. William was proprietor of the restaurant, St Mary’s Buildings, Renfield-street, Glasgow, which was kept by his mother and sister.
“Donald Campbell, the chief engineer, was in the service of Messrs. Randolph, Elder, & Co., shipbuilders and engineers. He was generally engaged in going out with new steamers built by them. He was waiting on a large sew steamer finishing by this firm, but as his wife and family are residing in London he engaged to take the Arran Castle round to London. He intended to sail her on the Thames for a week or two until his new steamer was ready.
“(Special telegram per West Highland Wire from Greenock.)
“Greenock, 1:3O p.m.—The additional debris of wreck brought here last night by the Flying Childers has been taken to Glasgow for identification. Capt. Young, who commanded the Arran Castle, is here, but has not yet seen this additional portion of wreck. From the description, however—part of a new dining-table, side gangway, and half of a new steering-wheel—he is of opinion that they are too likely to have belonged to the missing steamer.”—Glasgow Evening Citizen, March 30, 1866
The Cardiff Castle sailed to the area of the disaster to look for definite signs that the Arran Castle was indeed sunk.
“The Arran Castle.—The Cardiff Castle, Captain Ewing, which left last Saturday afternoon, in search of further traces of the missing steamer, returned to the Broomielaw on Tuesday night. The Cardiff under the pilotage of Capt. Martin, left Rothesay Bay on Sunday morning, and after reaching the locality where the Arran Castle is supposed to have met with her sad fate, cruised about the channel, and also made various inquiries at every port, and all the fishing other boats which were seen in the neighbourhood. No trace or intelligence of any bodies was obtained; but the parties on board managed to secure few further portions of wreck, such as two iron brackets, part of the panelling of a saloon door, and other material which there is not the slightest doubt, formed portions of the Arran Castle. Among the salvage which the parties on board the Cardiff, found in the possession of fisherman at Ballantrae, who would only part with it on payment being made him, was the engine-house door, with an iron plate inscribed “Rankin & Blackmore, Engineers, Eagle Foundry, Greenock.” This firm, formerly mentioned, engined the Arran Castle. The door it quite complete and uninjured, even the hinges being intact, further than what might occur by the action of the water.”—Greenock Advertiser, April 5, 1866
It is perhaps worth mentioning at this point that a replacement for the Arran Castle on the Thames was ordered. A hull, built on speculation as a blockade runner, was completed by Messrs Thomas Wingate & Co., of Glasgow and equipped with deck saloons. Launched as Palmerston (the Arran Castle would have been renamed Palmerston if she had sailed on the Thames), she was chartered by and eventually sold to Messrs John Brown & Co., of Belfast for the Bangor trade and renamed Bangor Castle. As such, she sailed in consort with the Erin.
Bangor Castle and Erin in Belfast Harbour around 1880
The repercussions of the sinking of the Arran Castle and the loss of Mr Watson for the Sunday traffic on the Clyde were almost immediate. Ownership of the Cardiff Castle came to Watson’s partner in the Sunday trade. Having secured ownership, little time was lost in placing the steamer in the Sunday trade. During the week she was sailing to Largs and Millport.
Greenock Telegraph, May 1, 1866
“Shipping sales.—The well-known river steamers Hero and Cardiff Castle, belonging to the late Mr Watson, were yesterday sold by public roup within the Faculty Hall, Glasgow. The Hero brought £2800, and the Cardiff Castle £8OO. The former, it is said, was purchased for captain Reid and some friends, and is intended for the Rothesay station. The latter was purchased for Mr Harry Sharp, Glasgow. The steamer Vesta has been purchased by the Messrs Campbell from the Messrs Henderson. The Vesta was chartered some few weeks ago to supply the place of the Vivid, which met with an accident to her machinery, but has been purchased altogether. Messrs Campbell intend to give her an overhaul, new floats, and otherwise improve her. They have also a new saloon steamer building by Messrs Barclay, Curle & Co., Glasgow, and this summer they will have three steamers employed on the Kilcreggan and Kilmun stations. Yesterday the hull of the ship Ardmore of Greenock, which went ashore at Tyree in December, was sold in Glasgow for £50. Her cargo (timber) was sold for £1,375.”—Greenock Telegraph, May 10, 1866.
“Sunday steamer.—On Sunday, the steamer Cardiff Castle made her first Sunday trip this season from Glasgow to Rothesay.”—Greenock Advertiser, May 15, 1866
There can be little doubt that this change in ownership marked a change in the notoriety of the Sunday steamers and the behavior of the crowds on board. Mr Watson had managed to largely control the safety of the vessels and comfort of passengers when he had some say in the matter. In his absence the discipline of the crews lapsed further.
With her new management, the Cardiff Castle had some immediate mishaps.
“Accident.—Last night, about six o’clock, while the Cardiff Castle steamer was proceeding up the river, and nearly opposite the foot Roseneath Street, a cow broke loose and jumped overboard. From the shore it appeared that some attempt was in the steamer to launch the boat, but without success. A small boat with one gentleman in her proceeded from the shore to the steamer, and took the owner of the cow on board, who did his best to keep the head above the water. A punt with three boys, the sons of Captain Craig and Captain Scott, pulled out to the rescue, and both boats towed the animal along, with her mouth held above the water, towards the slip at the Esplanade near the foot of Madeira Street. The little fellows pulled very gallantly for more than half-an-hour, and the cow was landed alive on the slip. The animal was greatly exhausted, or perhaps Injured by the leap; and it was deemed expedient to slaughter the animal on the Esplanade.”—Greenock Telegraph, June 9, 1866
Glasgow Herald, June 9, 1866
“Accident to the Sunday steamer.—Yesterday forenoon, while the Cardiff Castle, on her usual Sunday trip, was opposite Dumbarton Castle, a boat came off to put some passengers on board. On approaching the boat which was on the starboard side, the pilot of the steamer thinking he was too near to it, ported his helm to such an extent that the steamer went right stern on upon a scow or dredger, which was lying moored there, with considerable force, and a large portion of the steamer’s stern from below the level of the deck down to near the water’s edge was turned away to the port aide. The collision caused considerable panic on board, and a number of the passengers, thinking the injury to the steamer more serious than it really was, got over the prow and on to the moored craft In consequence of the damage sustained by the vessel, the master did not consider it prudent to proceed below Gourock. No person was reported injured on board. The damage done to the dredger has not been ascertained.”—Glasgow Evening Citizen, June 11, 1866
In June, Henry Sharp was also able to secure the Petrel. The steamer had had a number of breakdowns the previous year and had been given a complete overhaul to her engines. New boilers also changed he appearance and she emerged sporting a single funnel.
Petrel with a single funnel (Alasdair Macfarlane, Evening Citizen)
“The steamer Petrel.—This well-known river steamer, the last of the fleet belonging to the late Mr. Watson, was put up last week in the Faculty Hall, at the reduced upset price of £1600, but there being no bidders she was withdrawn from the market. We learn, however, that she has since brought for the above amount by private bargain, having been disposed of to Mr. Henry Sharp, who succeeded Mr Watson in the ownership of the Cardiff Castle.”—Glasgow Evening Citizen, June 18, 1866
“Trial trip of the steamer Petrel.—This favourite river steamer, having undergone much important alterations as to be considered almost a new vessel, had a trial trip down the river yesterday, to test her abilities, previous to being put on the Largs and Arran station for the season. shortly after 10 o’clock the steamer started from the Broomielaw with a number of gentlemen on board, curious to see whether the expenditure of nearly £3000 in new boilers, new paddle-wheels, patent floats, new hurricane deck, engine framing, and other improvements, had had the desired effect. At Gourock a few coast friends of the owners were taken on board, and afterwards the steamer proceeded up the Holy Loch, when a most sumptuous dinner was served up by the steward, Mr. Frank Cruickshanks. A hearty response having been given to the usual loyal and patriotic toasts, “Success to the steamer Petrel, and health to her owners,” was given, and most enthusiastically received and replied to. The steamer reached the Broomielaw about six o’clock, having run from Gourock to Glasgow in 1 hour 45 minutes, her performances throughout thoroughly satisfying all on board.”—Glasgow Herald, June 23, 1866
Before she could be placed on Sunday sailing, the newly revamped steamer was chartered by the North British Railway while the Dandie Dinmont was undergoing repair.
“The Rothesay Route —The present arrangements trade by the railway company for the service between here and the west coast is not at all satisfactory. The steamer Petrel has been on the station since Tuesday, in place of the Dandie Dinmont, but the time of arrival is anything but regularly kept. On Tuesday and last night the Petrel did not arrive from Rothesay for more than half an hour after the regular train had started, and a special train had to put on for the conveyance of the passengers to their destinations. Last night a good deal of dissatisfaction was expressed the passengers.”—Greenock Telegraph, July 5, 1866
When she eventually made her Sunday debut, sailing to Millport at 11 o’clock, Petrel was not well received at the Cumbrae capital. The advertisements did not name the steamer that was to provide the additional service, but few could have not known it would be the Petrel that had hitherto all but once refrained from the Sunday trade in the 1860s.
Glasgow Evening Citizen, July 13, 1866
“Stormy Petrel.—On Sunday, the Petrel, a well-known river steamer, which had been advertised sail from Glasgow to Millport, hove in sight of that pleasant little watering-place just as the congregations were leaving church. When she reached the pier, no attention was paid to her arrival by any one board the Largs and Argyll, two of the Wemyss Bay Co.’s vessels, and lines were thrown for the purpose of securing the Petrel in vain, although the steamers were tilled with observers from the shore. The consequence was that a considerable time elapsed before she could be brought to. While the operation was going on, a person on board the Petrel, seeming to have authority, began to abuse, in very unseemly language, one or two persons in shirt-sleeves on board the Argyll (the steamer alongside which it was proposed to make fast the Petrel), because they would not secure the lines thrown from the latter. Hearing this indecent discourse the Millport folks standing both on the quay and also on board the Largs and Argyll, began to express their indignation at the conduct the person who uttered it, in a series of groans. The passengers of the Petrel, many of whom were tipsy, were not slow to respond in a string of curses and objurgations both loud and deep, and by challenging any of the people expressing their displeasure with the conduct of the Sunday travellers to fight. One of the Petrel’s, who seemed to under the influence of drink, although otherwise respectable in appearance, actually did jump upon the Argyll’s deck threatening to “smash the nose of any one of the groaners who chose to face him.” The belligerent Irishman, for his accent betrayed him, found his match, and so great was the anger now felt at the disorderly shoal about to be intruded on the Sunday calm of Millport, that fair play was given, a ring was formed, and the combatants allowed to fight it out. Victory speedily declared herself on the side of the stalwart Scot who fought the Irishman, and the latter was conveyed back to the boat he came from, after having received the sound and thorough thrashing be deserved. All this time the shouting and execrations issued from the lips of the Petrel’s noisy “crew” were terrific, and disturbed Millport from one end to the other. The police officer exerted himself in vain to quell the turmoil; the excited crowds defying for a time all his efforts. A few of the Petrel’s passengers went ashore, but the majority remained on board. After staying a short time the Petrel left, and a person was left behind with the view, it is understood, of collecting what evidence he could, to show that the policeman had not done his duty in not compelling the crew of the Argyll to secure the Sunday steamer’s lines. He made himself conspicuous a little while by haranguing the crowd after a rambling fashion, but disappeared shortly, afraid apparently of being mobbed. The inhabitants of Millport do not seemingly wish to have the repose of their village disturbed on the Sabbath by the influx of a crowd of excursionists from Glasgow or Greenock, and as they have so clearly expressed their dissatisfaction with the first attempt, it might be wise and prudent on the part of those concerned to refrain from making a second.—Citizen.”—Greenock Advertiser, July 17, 1866
Matters became worse on the return trip as the steamer broke down at Bowling.
“Serious charge against the owner and a captain of a river steamer.— On Friday last, at the River Bailie Court—before Bailie J. W. Anderson—Henry Sharp, owner or part owner and master or acting master of the steamer Petrel, and Hugh Baxter, who was also described as master of the vessel, were charged with culpable and reckless conduct on the 16th instant, while the vessel was on the voyage between Largs and Glasgow, whereby the lives of the passengers were endangered. Sharp was also charged with being intoxicated on the day in question. The evidence for the prosecution went to show that the steamer was disabled on leaving Largs, and did not steam properly. The passengers, who numbered about 600, becoming alarmed, a number of them wished to get out at Wemyss Bay, but they were not allowed. As the steamer proceeded on her way matters became worse, and the alarm of the passengers was much increased by her commencing to lurch. On Gourock being reached many of them were screaming, and imploring those in command not to attempt going in to the quay. On the arrival of the steamer at Greenock a determined attempt was made to get on shore by a number on board, but the hands of the vessel would not allow them, only a few managing to land. The vessel did not arrive at Bowling till half-past 10 o’clock, and then matters appear to have become worse, the crew getting on to the paddle boxes for the purpose of assisting to start the paddle wheels by pulling with ropes. Smoke commenced to rise from the deck, and the passengers becoming fearfully excited on account of this and the lurching of the vessel, left the steamer in a body. Several witnesses stated that Sharp and a number of the crew were the worse of liquor, but Baxter was said to have acted like a gentleman. Owing to the witnesses for the defence not being present the case was adjourned till Monday. Seven witnesses were then examined, some of whom stated that Baxter was master, Sharp being the owner and sometimes steward of the vessel. The latter was stated to have been quite sober on the day in question, but many of the passengers were the worse of liquor, one witness describing them as the worst lot he ever saw. The vessel had often lurched a great deal heavier than on the occasion in question, and an engineer stated that the break-down at Bowling was owing to the collapse of the superheater. Mr Sharp seems to have shown great anxiety for the passengers left there, and requested the pier-master to procure conveyance for them. The charge was found not proven.”—Renfrewshire Independent, July 28, 1866
With the Petrel in repair, the Sunday sailing of the Cardiff Castle was extended to Millport and Largs. It is not entirely clear if she returned by the same route or directly from Largs to Gourock but the new schedule would have increased liquor sales on board. Cardiff Castle continued to sail to Largs and Millport during the week.
Glasgow Herald, July 20, 1866
Glasgow Herald, July 20, 1866
Problems for the Sunday trade were compounded when Cardiff Castle was seriously damaged in a collision with the Venus. From the days when Messrs Watson & Co., had taken advantage of Captain M‘Kellar’s depleted fleet earlier in the decade, there was no love lost between the crews of the two steamers.
“Serious collision on the river.—Yesterday afternoon a collision of a very alarming character took place on the river betwixt the passenger steamers Venus and Cardiff Castle, whereby the lives of the passengers on board the former steamer were placed in the most imminent danger. The Venus, Captain M‘Kellar, left Glasgow for Arran, via Largs and Millport, as usual, at 2 p.m., having on board a great number of passengers, a quantity of luggage, and other goods. Betwixt Dumbarton Castle and Greenock the captain, steward, and several of the hands were engaged in the cabin part of the steamer collecting the fares, consequently only the pilot, named Duncan Turner, and his assistant, named Donald Campbell, were on the bridge at the time of the collision, and both were engaged at the wheel steering the steamer off Port-Glasgow, when the Cardiff Castle was observed coming up the river. No collision was of course apprehended when she was at first observed; but suddenly, it is alleged, the course of one or other of the vessels was altered. On board the Venus the danger into which both steamers were placed was at once seen, and a wild cry of alarm was raised amongst the terrified passengers. It is asserted by those on board the Venus, and corroborated by Mr. Porteous, chief engineer, and his assistant, that the engines were at once stopped when a collision was deemed imminent, and orders given to reverse them, but ere the latter order was carried out the Venus rushed into the Cardiff Castle, striking her on the port-bow, carrying away her rails, bulwarks, galley, part of paddle-box, and doing other serious damage. The shock was a terrible one, as was evidenced from the injuries sustained by the Venus, her bow being stove in to the extent of about fifteen feet, and her beams, plates, sails, bulwarks, stem, fore-rigging, cathead, &c., being all carried away. When the collision took place the Venus gave a great lurch, which caused dreadful excitement to prevail among the passengers, quite a panic ultimately ensuing amongst them. The screams of the women and children are stated to have been heard at both sides of the river. At the moment of the collision two young lads were sitting on the forward bulwarks. when one of them was thrown into the river, and the other was crushed amongst the debris. The lad who was precipitated into the river was gallantly rescued by one of the crew, named Daniel Blair. The cries of the other poor fellow, who was jammed in the wreck, were terrible. After much exertion he was liberated, when it was found that his left thigh was broken, and other injuries inflicted of a very serious character. The names of the lads are Allan M‘Donald, residing with his father at 22 Alston-street, Glasgow, and John Hunter, employed as a herd with Mr. Alexander Hamilton. Knock-in-Kelly, Arran. An examination of the Venus was at once made, when it was found that she was making no water; and after securing a portion of tarpauline over the bow, she proceeded at a slow rate to Greenock. The injured lads were there sent ashore on stretchers, and conveyed to the Infirmary. Fortunately, there was no person on board the Cardiff Castle save the crew, at least no passengers were observed on board by those on Greenock Quay when the steamer passed, without calling, about three o’clock yesterday afternoon. The alarm amongst the passengers on board the Venus, as we have already stated, was very great—many ladies fainting, while others went into hysterics. After a time, comparative order was obtained, but when the steamer arrived at Greenock most of the passengers fled from her in dismay. We believe the Cardiff Castle was taken into Port-Glasgow in a very disabled condition. The Venus returned to Glasgow last night. Last night the two lads were in a very weak state—M‘Donald especially, who has been more seriously injured, being very low. A large number of empty barrels being stowed forward, prevented the passengers getting near the bow of the Venus, else the loss of life might have been frightful. All the steerage passengers, with the exception of the two boys injured, were grouped behind the foremast at the time, of the collision. The whole matter will doubtless form the subject of a vigorous official inquiry.”—Glasgow Evening Citizen, July 25, 1866
Blame was placed firmly on the Venus.
“The recent collision on the river.—Yesterday, at the instance of Robert Blair, Esq., Procurator-Fiscal for the Lower Ward, John M‘Kellar, master, and Donald Campbell, deck hand of the steamer Venus, were apprehended in Glasgow on a charge of reckless neglect of duty, by having, through inattention to the rules of steering, come into collision with the steamer Cardiff Castle, off Port-Glasgow, on the 24th ult., whereby that steamer was injured in the port-bow, and Julian M‘Donald, Alston Street, Glasgow, had his left leg fractured and his body bruised, John Hunter, Whiting Bay, Arran, was bruised and thrown overboard, and Robert Stewart, Gateside, Largs, was bruised and otherwise injured. Both prisoners were examined before Sheriff King, and Captain M‘Kellar was liberated on bail of £50. A warrant was also issued against Duncan Turner, the pilot, but he has absconded.”—Greenock Advertiser, August 7, 1866
Notably, Cardiff Castle was back on station, sailing to Rothesay in early August. Petrel had joined her on Sundays, sailing to Largs, but missing out Millport after her frosty reception there.
Glasgow Herald, August 17, 1866
The woes of 1866 carried on to 1867. New owners had quickly discovered that they had overpaid for their vessels as trade was slack and competition fierce.
“Greenock.—River steamers offered for sale.—Yesterday, within the Faculty Hall, Glasgow, three well known river steamers were offered for sale. They were the almost new paddle-steamer Rothesay Castle, which has been put in the market owing to the death of one of the owners. Although a favourite on the Rothesay station, and one of the fastest river steamers on the Clyde, no offer equal to her value was made, and the sale was adjourned. The other two steamers up were the Petrel and Cardiff Castle, neither of which found an offer. The unfortunate name these two steamers have attained as Sunday breakers will have prejudicial effect on their sale.”—Glasgow Evening Post, February 28, 1867
“Steamboat property.—The river steamer Rothesay Castle, and the two Sunday steamers Petrel and Cardiff Castle, were put up yesterday in the Faculty Hail, Glasgow, at the upset prices, respectively, of £4,500, £1,600, and £750, but without inducing a bid, although there was a large representation present of the steamboat interest.”—Greenock Telegraph, February 28,1867
“Greenock.—.Steamers offered for sale.—Yesterday, the river steamers Rothesay Castle, Petrel, and Cardiff Castle were again exposed for sale within the Faculty Hall, Glasgow, but did not find purchasers. The Rothesay Castle, which is almost a new steamer, and one the fastest the Clyde, was put up £4000, the Petrel £l400, and the Cardiff £250. The latter got an offer, but the party skedaddled thereafter, and could not be found take her. There was a most unusually large attendance of steamboat masters, and it must have been very discomforting to them to see steamboat property so much below par.”—Glasgow Evening Post, March 14, 1867
A week later, it was announced that the Cardiff Castle was going to the breakers.
“The steamer Cardiff Castle.—This well-known river steamer, one of the oldest river steamers on the Clyde, is about to disappear from the river, her owners having at last agreed to break her up and sell her as old material. The Cardiff Castle was built about 1846 for the Castle line of steamers then owned Messrs Burns, and of the fleet of steamers then sailing and built there only now remains the Inverary Castle and Pioneer, both built the same year, but almost renewed since. The Petrel, which was built in 1846, is also “of the things that are’’ and is at present in the market.”—Glasgow Evening Post, March 23, 1867
“To what base uses,” &c.—The Cardiff Castle, known during the past few years as “the Sunday steamer,” has come to an end which will doubtless be satisfactory to a large section the church-going public, having been bought, we learn, by a metal-merchant in town, for the purpose of being broken up for the sake of the old material! The price paid for her is stated to be £320. The fate of the Petrel, the sister steamer of the Cardiff, has yet to be decided.”—Glasgow Evening Citizen, April 15, 1867
The engines of the Cardiff Castle offered for sale in the Glasgow Herald, May 15, 1867
However, the prayers of the Sabbatarians were not granted and it was now Petrel that was the main Sunday steamer, sailing to Rothesay at 10:30 a.m. In the early part of her season the weather was indifferent and thought business picked up at the beginning of July, she was again dogged by breakdowns on Glasgow Fair Monday and the following Sunday.
“Sunday Steamer.—The steamer Petrel was down the river from Glasgow to Rothesay yesterday, for the first time this season, and had on board a large number of passengers.”—Glasgow Evening Citizen, May 6, 1867
“Greenock—Sunday Sailing.—The steamer Petrel, which commenced the Sabbath sail three weeks ago, had but indifferent success on her first two trips. On Sabbath last, however, she had a considerable number on board, a large portion of a whom were landed here and at the Gourock and on the return of the steamer it was evident those who returned on board had been taking advantage of the bona fide clauses in the Public-houses Act.”—Glasgow Evening Post, May 21, 1867
Glasgow Herald, May 25, 1867
Glasgow Free Press, June 8, 1867
“Sunday Steamer —The very fine weather yesterday had the effect of filling the steamer Petrel with a large number of passengers, the bulk of whom accompanied her all the way from Glasgow to Rothesay and back.”—Greenock Telegraph, July 1, 1867
“The Petrel, known as “the Sunday steamer,” left the wharf at seven this morning crowded, like all the others to-day from the Broomielaw, with Fair holiday passengers; but she had only reached the foot of the harbour when she had to disembark her living freight, having unfortunately become disabled from the giving way of one of her shafts.”—Glasgow Evening Citizen, Monday July 15, 1867
“Accident to the Sunday Steamer.— Yesterday, while the Sunday steamer was proceeding to Mavisbank Quay, some part of her piston-road gave way. She could not come down the river.”—Greenock Telegraph, July 22 1867
Glasgow Free Press, August 3, 1867
The problems continued into August. The numbers of mishaps and missed sailings reflects on the management and competence of those in charge. However, there was a clear determination to persevere with the Sunday “experiment”.
“Steamboat Accidents.—On Friday evening the Lochfine steamer Inveraray Castle broke down at Steamboat Quay. Her cargo herrings was landed and sent by rail to Glasgow, whither she was towed for repair. On Sunday some accident occurred to the machinery of the Sunday steamer before she left the Broomielaw, and the trip was abandoned. Yesterday morning, the steamer Rothesay Castle, when off Dumbarton on her up run, snapped her paddle shaft inside the journal, which caused the stoppage altogether of the action of the port paddle. Captain Buchanan, however, by working the starboard paddle, brought his steamer to Bowling in plenty of time to put his passengers on board the Dunoon Castle, a quarter of an hour behind him from Rothesay, so that their delay in reaching town was immaterial. This is the third mishap which has befallen the Rothesay Castle since she came, about three months ago, into the hands of Captain Buchanan and his co-owners.”—Greenock Advertiser, August 13, 1867
“The steamer Petrel.—This notorious Sunday-breaker has speedily followed in the course her old copartner the Cardiff Castle. Lately she has had several break-downs, and Saturday night last she broke down and was unable to make her usual evening pleasure trip. On Sabbath it was expected she would not lose her usual trip, but she was unable to attempt the passage down the river on that day, and the quiet of the Clyde on Sabbath last was undisturbed by a Sunday pleasure sailer.
“It is somewhat remarkable to notice the mishaps that have befallen the fleet of steamers lately belonging to Messrs Watson and others who kept up the Sunday trade. The Emperor is no more; the Cardiff Castle, after a series of break-downs, is done-up and condemned; the Arran Castle went to the bottom; the Petrel has had several mishaps; and Rothesay Castle, although getting into new hands, this season has broken two cylinders and one shaft, the cost of repairing which must amount to close upon £l000.”—Glasgow Evening Post, August 13, 1867
Glasgow Evening Citizen, August 23, 1867
The Sunday season closed at the end of October, 1867, and for the next few years, the Petrel carried out her Sunday excursions on her own, sailing to Rothesay and calling at Greenock and Gourock. During the week, she sailed to Largs and Millport, and occasionally as far as Ayr. Charters were also encouraged and probably provided a significant revenue.