2-970-212 - /Heritage Images

Opening of the New Docks at West Hartlepool, 1856. 'It was calculated by those accustomed to estimate numbers of people congregated together that 50,000 were present to witness the opening of [Swainson Dock]...Each [of the docks] is provided with large ship-building yards adjoining, which are complete with all requisite machinery and conveniences for extensive wood and iron ship-building...The return of peace with Russia will, no doubt, in due time, have its beneficial effect upon this undertaking; and attention has already been given to the early opening and development oi trade between West Hartlepool, Russia, and the Baltic ports...In the past year of 1855 the coal shipped and conveyed by the company was 1,196,258 tons, being an increase of nearly 200,000 tons over the coal tonnage of the preceding year, 1854'. Note sailors manning the yards on board ship. From "Illustrated London News", 1856.