3-039-067 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

The steam-ship John Elder, for the Liverpool and Valparaiso line, 1871. 'This vessel, the first of six steamships of the same class for the Pacific Steam Navigation Company's Liverpool and Valparaiso line, went out in December, to call at Rio de Janeiro and Montevideo, carrying the Brazil and River Plate mails. She was contracted for by the Pacific Company with Mr. John Elder, of Govan and Glasgow, but was not completed until shortly after that eminent engineer and shipbuilder had been removed by death. Being the last ship he took in hand and the first of their largest class of steamers, the directors of the company decided on giving his name to the vessel to show their appreciation of the great services he had rendered in perfecting the compound engine, which has aided much in the success of their ships. She is fitted with compound engines of 550-horse power (nominal), capable of exerting a force equal to that of 2800 horses. Her first and second class passenger accommodation..is expressly adapted for warm climates. The saloon...is a model of elegance and good taste, with all expedients for securing the comfort of passengers. The John Elder is commanded by Captain C. H. Sivell, R.N.R., an officer of much experience in the company's service'. From "Illustrated London News", 1871.