2-889-308 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

Launch of the "Dragon-Fly" Steamer on Lake Windermere, 1850. '...another vessel, built for the Windermere Iron Steamer Company, was launched at Low Wood, Windermere. Its dimensions are 100 feet in length, 14 feet beam, 50 horse-power, and a very light draught of water, not more than 20 inches. The vessel was launched complete in every respect, and with steam up; so that the moment she reached the water, the engines being started, she immediately steamed around the beautiful bay of Low Wood, amidst the cheers of the spectators. This new steamer was built by Messrs. M'Conochie and Claude, engineers, Liverpool, and was christened the Dragon-fly by Mrs. Rigg, the lady of the Secretary of the Company. After the launch, a large party sat down to an excellent dinner, at Mr. Logan's, Low Wood Hotel.' From "Illustrated London News", 1850.