2-913-618 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

"The Volcano" steam-sloop fitted as a floating factory for the Baltic, 1854. Crimean War: 'Among the novel requirements for our steam naval warfare in the Baltic is the provision of a Floating Factory, for the repair of such injury as our vessels may receive in engagements, or from other casualties. For this purpose the Volcano...has been fitted...by Mr. [James] Nasmyth, who contracted to provide the whole of the tools and fittings, and an independent steam-engine and boiler capable of exerting a power of twelve horses...the Volcano had her compasses adjusted at Greenhithe, and... received on board a considerable number of letters and newspapers for the officers and crews of the Baltic fleet. She also received about £10,000 in specie - £7500 in gold, and the remainder in silver - for the use of the fleet; and, having her steam up, she left on Sunday afternoon for the Baltic'. From "Illustrated London News", 1854.