2-888-652 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

The British Mail Steam-Ship "Asia", 1850. 'The Asia was built by Messrs. Steele, of Greenock. The engines and boilers were furnished by Mr. Robert Napier, of the same town, who has supplied the machinery for all the Cunard line...From the time of the first sole-plate of the engine being laid, till the whole machinery and boilers were completely fitted up, only eight weeks elapsed; which, considering their enormous size and weight, is a feat of unexampled occurrence...The Asia is propelled by two splendidly-finished engines of 400-horse power each, which are constructed in the most substantial manner possible. The steam is supplied by four boilers, any number of which can be worked separately, if necessary; and although any one should be disabled, or require cleaning, no inconvenience will be thereby occasioned'. From "Illustrated London News", 1850.