Here we present both a "Short" history of the World Ship Society, followed at the bottom of the page by a rather lengthy "Chronological" version.
The Short History of the Society
What is now known as the World Ship Society was originally the "brain child" of Michael Crowdy, brought about more or less by chance.
In 1946, Michael was corresponding with various people interested in ships, and as the number of correspondents grew, it became necessary to duplicate the information he received in order to circulate it. As young as he was, Michael realised the potential existing for an organisation such as the Ship News Club and with a great deal of encouragement and some financial support from his father, Michael launched the Ship News Club.
His first publications in early 1947 were duplicated sheets containing news of ships, merchant and naval, whose names began with the letters "A" to "L", followed a couple of months later with further lists containing the "M" to "Z" ships. These two sets of duplicated sheets have been re-typed and copied by various people and are now accepted as Part 1 and Part of Volume 1 of Marine News.
The first Marine News to appear in magazine format was in June 1947 and was 12 pages with one photograph. News soon got around about the Ship News Club and membership increased rapidly from 50 in January 1947 to 200 in December and 330 in July 1948.
The enthusiasm of Michael had to be seen to be believed and he was soon in contact with a number of shipping personalities such as Francis McMurtrie, Editor of Jane's Fighting Ships; Cdr. A.C. Hardy; Dr. Oscar Parkes and one other person who became perhaps the best known member of the Committee apart from Michael himself, "Uncle" Fred Bland of Liverpool, the architect of the present Central Record. By February 1949 Overseas Agents had been appointed in Belgium, Denmark, Eire, France, Germany, Italy, Holland, New Zealand, Norway and Sweden.
The first Annual General Meeting of the Ship News Club was held aboard WELLINGTON, Thames Embankment, London on 23rd September 1949 and it was at this meeting that the proposal to change the name of the "Club" to the World Ship Society was accepted and approved.
Today, more than 50 years later, the World Ship Society has thousands of members in countries world-wide with branches in Europe, Australia, South Africa, Asia, and North America.
The monthly magazine, Marine News, has continued uninterrupted over the years and is now a standard 64-page format with colour photographs, widely respected by marine historians and those in the marine industry.
The Central Record and the Photo Libraries have both expanded to enormous size and provide information to members seeking research back to very early times.
The "Mutual Interests" scheme is still popular today. And what started out as a supplement to Marine News -- the Warship Supplement -- is now its own 52-page publication devoted to naval affairs around the world. Warships is published quarterly for those members interested in navies around the world.
Since the Society's first publication on the Albyn Line in 1950, it has now produced or been directly involved in the publication of over 135 books on various shipping companies around the world. We now have available reprints of "Yard Lists" covering thousands of newbuilds and going back to the late 1800's. Indices for both Marine News and Warships are available back to early 1950's.
Over the years, nearly every task within the Society has been carried out by volunteer members, from their own homes. There are no paid employees. There is no "Head Office" (or "Home Office"). But with the vast resources available to each volunteer (usually from within his or her own collections, it is possible to meet the thousands of marine-related requests received each year from its members.
Today, a large team of volunteer members provide other members with assistance in their research on ships and shipping matters, sometimes going back to very early times. Looking ahead, the future appears very bright for the World Ship Society. New members are joining daily and with the introduction of some services on-line or through the Internet, we hope to attract more of the computer-knowledgeable potential members from every part of the world.
But for the information of the "Old Timers", don't despair -- the introduction of on-line services is meant to augment what has been traditional for the past 50 years, not replace it. Once again the world is undergoing an exciting change in ships, with builders' yards unable to cope with the orders they have received. New sophisticated vessels are now being launched to meet the latest SOLAS standards and that means more ships to research and more history to record and investigate. And that is what the World Ship Society is all about -- studying and researching ships -- whether it be the modern "big boxes", or the old traditional sailing vessels, or warships past and present.
^ ^ ^ ^
The foregoing history summary is taken from the notes of the late Cliff Parsons. His notes cover the period from inception to January 1952. The Webmaster is looking for someone in the Society to fill in the remaining years with a format similar to the foregoing. If you can help, please contact us at webmaster@worldshipsociety.org
The detailed Chronological History can be found at the bottom of this page. Scroll down to locate "Chronological WSS History"
Items of Historical Significance, taken from various issues of Marine News
Dec 1950 - Objects of the Society are:—
1. To unite in a single organisation all who are interested in ships of all ages and types, including their modelling and the collection of their photographs, prints or other illustrations.
2. To work in the closest co-operation with other existing Marine Research and Shiplovers' Societies in this country and abroad.
3. To make available through its correspondence service the knowledge and experience of experts to every branch of ship-lore.
4. To publish a monthly magazine, Marine News, which is a digest of the latest news in the world of shipping and includes, in addition, specialist articles and items of members' research.
5. To create a central index of photographs and general information.
6. To form Branches of the Society in all possible localities to enable members to meet together for discussions and to arrange visits to ships, docks, yards and other places of maritime interest. Branch membership is automatic and does not entail any further basic financial obligation beyond the payment of the annual Society subscription. Area Secretaries, however, are authorised to recover any expenses incurred by such meetings from participating members.
Membership is open to all and the subscription rates, [for 1951] which include twelve editions of Marine News are:—
Life Membership ........................................ 25 gns.
Feb 1951 - Editorial re: formation of the Central Record
The response to our preliminary announcement last December regarding the Central Record which the World Ship Society is to found, leaves us in no doubt whatsoever either as to its chances of success, or to the desire of members, in this country and overseas, to see such a Record in existence. The response can only be described as beyond our hopes, and as this was before members read the full details of the plan, as printed in Marine News last month, our hopes have never been higher.
One thing which has come as rather a surprise to us is the number of members who have, independently, been engaged on their own research work in the past; in fact, instead of wondering whether we are wise to embark on the project, we are now wondereing why we did not embark on it long ago. Mr. Bland, last month, made passing reference to the naval aspect of the Record, and we are now able to give fuller details of this. The Naval section of the Central Record will consist of:—
1. An Alphabetical card index of all warships of all navies, back at least to 1800, and earlier as practicable.
2. National Fleet Lists, built up in chronological order, of all warships in their different categories, from Battleships downwards.
3. Detailed information files giving additional information on the various classes of ships.
4. Shipbuilders and Engineers.
5. Photographs, negatives, plans, models and drawings.
6. Bibliography.
As the greater proportion of our replies regarding the Record have so far come from people interested in merchant ships, we now await hearing from the many "naval" members of the Society, and trust that their response will be as great.
2009 - 62nd - Cartagena, Spain -- for a complete report go to the section FROM THE PAST - AGM 2009, which was held in the Cartagena Port Authority Theatre on May 15, 2009, followed by a visit to the Arsenal and submarine base or a tour of City Hall as well as a tourist boat trip to the Feurta de Navidad (Christmas Fort) and Cartagena Harbour.
2008 - 61st - Harwich, UK -- for a complete report go to the section FROM THE PAST - AGM 2008. Meeting was held on the weekend of May 9-11, 2008 at the Cliff Hotel, Marine Parade, Dovercourt. Highlights included a visit to the local RNLI station, and a long cruise from Half-Penny Pier in Harwich Town to Ipswich and return.
2007 - 60th - Dover, UK -- for a complete report go to the section FROM THE PAST - AGM 2007, which was held at the Churchill Hotel, Dover on May 12-14, 2007 (hosted by the East Kent Branch) / Highlights included a slide show, a visit to the Coast Guard Control Centre at Langdon Bay, a trip down the Medway on the KINGSWEAR CASTLE
2006 - 59th - Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK -- for a report go to the section FROM THE PAST - AGM 2006. Meeting was held on the weekend of May 2-4, 2006, and held at the Copthorne Hotel, Newcastle. Highlights included a 3-hour cruise to the mouth of the Tyne and back
2005 - 58th - Kiel, Germany -- for a complete report and photo essay go to the section FROM THE PAST - AGM 2005. Meeting was held on the weekend of May 27-29, 2005, and held at the Steigenburger Conti Hansa Hotel, in Kiel. Highlights included a long voyage on the restored STADT KIEL to the mouth of the fjord and part way up the Kiel Canal; a vist to the Laboe Memorial, including U-995, plus a visit to the Maritime Museum.
2004 - 57th - Falmouth, UK -- for a report on the meeting, go to the section FROM THE PAST - AGM 2004, which was held on the weekend of May 14-16, 2004 at the Falmouth Hotel, (and hosted by the Cornwall Branch) Falmouth. Highlights included an opportunity to visit the new National Maritime Museum Cornwall, plus an extended boat trip.
2003 - 56th - Douglas, Isle of Man (hosted by the Isle of Man Branch), on May 16-18, 2003, at the Empress Hotel, Central Promenade, Douglas. Highlights included Welcome reception at the House of Mannanin Heritage Centre in Peel, a visit to Sea Breezes magazine and a coach outing to Tynwald Mills Craft centre.
2002 - 55th - Jersey, Channel Islands, May 17-19, 2002
2001 - 54th - Kingston-upon-Hull, UK (hosted by the Hull Branch), on May 18-20, 2001.
2000 - 53rd - Hove, UK (hosted by the South Coast Branch), on May 5-7, 2000, and held at the Dudley Hotel, Hove.
1999 - 52nd - Antwerp, Belgium (hosted by members of the Society living in Belgium), on May 7-9, 1999, at the Novotel Antwerpen Noord. Highlights included a coach trip to Antwerp's historic centre and the Maritime Museum, a coach trip to the Flandria's Scheldt Terminal, with a 6-hour cruise of the River Scheldt and Antwerp Dock system
1998 - 51st - Southampton, UK (hosted by the Southampton Branch) at the Polygon Hotel, Southampton, May 8-10, 1998. Highlights included coach trip to the New Forest, Lymington and Beaulieu village, a Docks and Southampton Water cruise on Blue Funnel Cruises vessel OCEAN SCENE
1997 - 50th - Liverpool, Merseyside, UK (hosted by the Merseyside Branch) May 9-11, 1997, at the Moat House Hotel, Liverpool / highlights included a guided tour around the Merseyside Maritime Museum at Albert Dock, public lecture by John Lingwood on the P.S.N.C., coach trip to Speke Hall, a banquet dinner speaker - Capt. Robin Woodall R.D., R.N.R. (retired captain of the QE2), and a boat trip on the Mersey. An optional ferry cruise from Liverpool to Belfast and return on the NORSE LAGAN
1996 - 49th - Plymouth, UK (hosted by the Plymouth Branch) May 17-19, 1996 at the New Continental Hotel, Plymouth. / highlights included coach trip to Devonport Naval Dockyard and trip around the base and museum, coach trip to Mount Edgecombe and a boat trip aboard the PLYMOUTH SOUND to the Plymouth waterfront and docks. An optional ferry cruise from Plymouth to Santander, Spain aboard the VAL DE LOIRE.
1995 - 48th - Vlaardingen, Rotterdam, The Netherlands, at the IBIS hotel, May 19-22, 1995. (hosted by the Rotterdam Branch). Highlights included an optional ferry trip from Hull to Europort & return, a coach excursion to the Flood Barriers, opening remarks by the Mayor of Vlaardingen, a cruise aboard the DELTA QUEEN to the historic Groothoofd Quay, and another 6-hour river cruise.
1994 - 47th - Tenby, Wales (hosted by the Swansea & West Wales Branch) May 13-15, 1994, at the Imperial Hotel, Tenby / highlights included coach trip to Milford Haven and Milford Marina or Museum or St. Davids's, plus a cruise from Milford Haven
1993 - 46th - Tynemouth, UK, May 7-9, 1993, at the Park Hotel, Grande Parade, Tynemouth. (hosted by Tyneside Branch) / Highlights include: coach trip to Wallington and a cruise on River Tyne; a visit to the Tyne & Wear Archives; Museum of Science and Engineering
1992 - 45th - Gillingham, Medway, UK, May 8-10, 1992, at the King Charles Hotel, Gillingham, Kent - and hosted by the Medway Branch. / Highlights included a visit to the Chatham Historic Dockyard and a 3-hour River Medway cruise on the Paddle Steamer KINGSWEAR CASTLE, plus an optional cruise on the OLAU BRITANNIA from Sheerness to Vlissingen
1991 - 44th - Llandudno, Gwynedd, Wales (North Wales Branch - hosts) May 10-12, 1991. at the Risboro Hotel, Llandudno / highlights included coach trips to Conwy and/or Bodnant Gardens, boat cruise on the River Conwy, coach trip to Caernarvon visiting the coal-fired dredger SEIONT II and its museum
1990 - 43rd - Bournemouth, Dorset, UK, May 18-20, 1990 at the Queens Hotel, Bournemouth, and hosted by the Dorset Branch. / Highlights include: a visit to the headquarters of the Royal National Lifeboat Association, Poole; H.M. Coastguard Training School, Christchurch; cruise round Poole Harbour and an optional cruise to Guernsey from Poole
1989 - 42nd - Hamburg, Germany, May 3-9, 1989. / highlights included optional voyage on the m.s. HAMBURG from Harwich to Hamburg & return, reception aboard the vessel CAP SAN DIEGO, excursion to Bremerhaven, coach sightseeing excursion, grand harbour cruise of the Port of Hamburg.
1988 - 41st - Edinburgh, Scotland (Firth of Forth Branch - hosts) May 20-22, 1988. at the Crest Hotel, Queensferry, Road Craigleith / Rooms offered at £15 pp, incl. full Scottish breakfast / highlights included coach tour to Grangemouth, and a cruise on the Forth
1987 - 40th - Gravesend, Kent, UK May 8-10, 1987, hosted by the North-West Kent Branch, was entred at the Woodville Halls, Gravesend / highlights included: two archive films; coach tour to Woolwich, Thames Barrier and Greenwich plus the CUTTY SARK, 3-hour river cruise of River Thames
1986 - 39th - Falmouth, Cornwall, UK (hosted by Cornwall Branch), May 16-18, 1986, at the Falmouth Hotel, Falmouth. / highlights include coach tour to the harbours of Penzance and Newlyn, another to Truro, a boat rip around Falmouth Docks and up the River Fal
1985 - 38th - Vlissingen, (Flushing) Holland. The meeting was hosted by Dutch and Belgium members of the River Scheldt Committee, and was held on the weekend of May 17-19, 1985 at the Piccard Hotel, Vlissingen. Highlights included: a drive to the storm-surge barrier; coach tour to Middleburg and a visit to Miniatuur Walcheren; cruise on the River Scheldt on TONIJN (es-VLIELAND); optional trip from Sheerness to Vlissingen and return aboard an Olau ferry
1984 - 37th - Gourock, Scotland, UK (hosted by the Firth of Clyde Branch) was held on the weekend of May 18-20, 1984 at the Gamble Hall, Gourock, with dinner at the Gantock Hotel, Gourock. Highlights included: drive to Yarrows Shipyard; coach trip to Largs and other places
1983 - 36th - Harwich, UK (hosted by the Ipswich (Haven Ports) Branch) was held at the Cliff Hotel, Dovercourt on the weekend of May 6-8, 1983. Highlights included: 1½ -hour cruise on BRIGHTLINGSEA to view shipping in Harwich and Felixstowe; coach trips to Colchester and Ipswich
1982 - 35th - Weston-super-Mare, UK, May 14-16, 1982. Meeting was held at the Grand Atlantic Hotel, Weston-super-Mare. Highlights included: a trip to S.S. GREAT BRITAIN; trip around Bristol City docks; a trip to Wells; a trip around Avonmouth Docks
1981 - 34th - Sunderland, UK (hosted by the Tyneside Branch), was held on the weekend of May 15-17, 1981 at the Seaburn Hotel, Queen's Parade, Sunderland. Highlights included: first showing of 'Tyne & Tide'; drive to South Shields and cruise on River Tyne to Newcastle & return; coach trip to Durham Cathedral; drive through Sunderland Docks and conducted tour of the Southwick shipyard of Austin & Pickersgill
1980 - 33rd - Shanklin, Isle of Wight, UK, May 16-18, 1980 (hosted by the Isle of Wight Branch), was held at the Channel View Hotel, Shanklin. Highlights included: evning reception, slide show, coach tour of Wight to Yarmouth; a morning coach tour of East Wight; a visit to the Bembridge Maritime Museum.
1979 - 32nd - Cleveland, Teesside, May 18-20, 1979, (hosted by the Teesside Branch), at The Post House Hotel in Cleveland. / Highlights include a slide show covering the shipping of the Tees and Hartlepool, coach trip to Middlesbrough and Tees Docks, a coach trip to Staiths
1978 - 31st - Southend-on-Sea, Essex, UK (hosted by the Southend Branch), and held at the Airport Hotel on May 19-21, 1978. / Highlights included a trip to Maldon—a centre for Thames Sailing Barges, coach tour to the Tilbury Docks
1977 - 30th - Liverpool, Merseyside, UK (hosted by the Merseyside Branch), May 20-22, 1977, at the Adelphi Hotel, Liverpool. / Highlights included visits to Shipping Section Liverpool Musuem, Marine Section Riverside Technical College and Seaforth Container Terminal.
1976 - 29th - Hove, East Sussex, UK (hosted by the South Coast Branch), at the Dudley Hotel, Hove, from May 21-23, 1976. A 2-night package at the hotel was arranged at £19.50 inclusive of breakfast, dinner and accommodation. / Highlights included an excursion to port of Shoreham, a visit to the cable repair ship DAME CAROLINE HASLETT, Marlipins Museum.
1975 - 28th - Douglas, Isle of Man, UK (hosted by the Isle of Man Branch), was held at the Villiers Hotel, Douglas, on the weekend of May 16-18, 1975.
1974 - 27th - Manchester, UK was held at the Grand Hotel, Piccadilly, Manchester on the weekend of May 17-19, 1974. Highlights included: tour of Manchester Docks
1973 - 26th - Norwich, UK. This year's meeting took place in the Music Room of the Assembly House, Norwich on Saturday May 5, 1973. Highlights included: guided tours of the city of Norwich or Port of Yarmouth; visits to Brooke Marine, Lowestoft and Felixstowe Container Terminal; a coach/water bus tour of the Norfolk Broads.
1972 - 25th - Preston, UK. (hosted by the West Lancashire Branch)Meeting was held in the Assembly Rooms, Public Hall, Preston, and the Bull & Royal Hotel, Preston May 12-14, 1972. / Highlights included a Civic Opening of a shipping exhibition followed by a Civic Reception in the Harris Art Gallery, ship visits to Preston Dock and a visit to Vickers Shipyard, Barrow-in-Furness
1971 - 24th - Plymouth, UK. May 7th - 9th, 1971. Hosted by the Plymouth Branch. Highlights included: A civic reception by Plymouth City COuncil at Guildhall; a tour of H.M. Dockyard, Devonport, and museum; the AGM in the Lower Guildhall; evening dinner in the Ballroom of the Continental Hotel, Plymouth; a cruise of the Plymouth waterfront.
1970 - 23rd - Southampton, UK. April 25, 1970 saw the AGM take place aboard the P&O liner ARCADIA at Western Docks, in the First Class Ballroom, (which was docked next to the P&O liner CHUSAN. Highlights included: a tour of the Eastern Docks; a reception in the Blue Peter Lounge of the Dolphin Hotel; a visit to the Swedish Lloyd liner, PATRICIA; a cruise down Southampton Water to Fawley and the mouth of the Hamble River.
1969 - 22nd - Bristol, UK. This year's meeting was held aboard H.M.S. FLYING FOX at Bristol, May 2-4, 1969. Highlights included: The Lord Mayor of Bristol, Cocillor Mrs. Mercia Castle, J.P. held a reception for members at the Council House; a visit to the Museum and Art Gallery; a Nautical Dinner at the Grand Spa Hotel, Clifton; a tour of the Bristol and Avonmouth docks.
1968 - 21st - Liverpool, UK Friday May 3rd to Sunday May 5th, 1968 (hosted by the Merseyside Branch), started with a welcome meeting at the Lecture Theatre, City of Liverpool Museum, followed by a tour of the docks, the AGM which was held in the Conference Room of the Mersey Docks & Harbour Board Building
1967 - 20th - Brighton, UK, (hosted by the South Coast Branch), was held on the weekend of April 28-30, 1967, starting with a reception in the Commodore's Bar, Royal Albion Hotel, the AGM in the Clarence Room, Hotel Metropole and dinner in the Preston Suite, Royal Albion
1966 - 19th - Hull, UK. Meeting was held on the weekend of April 29 to May 1, 1966, and hosted by the Hull Branch. Activities included: informal meeting at the Nautical College, Boulevard, Hull; a visit to King George Dock; a visit to Maritime Museum; the AGM and dinner at the Skyline Restaurant in Hull; a visit to the Western Docks and another to the Fish Dock. Cost of dinner was noted at 17/6d. per person.
1965 - 18th - London, UK. This year's meeting began with an informal meeting on the Friday May 7th at the Baltic Exchange. This was followed on Saturday by a Docks Cruise during the morning aboard the Port of London Authority's yacht ST. KATHERINE. The AGM took place aboard H.M.S. PRESIDENT, followed by an informal dinner in the Exeter Room of the Strand Palace Hotel
1964 - 17th - Birmingham, UK. The West Midlands Branch hosted this meeting on the weekend of May 8-11, 1964. Activities included: an informal get-together on Friday evening, a visit to the Museum of Science and Industry, followed by a gathering at the Hudson's Bookshop, before the formal AGM, held at the Imperial Hotel, Birmingham.
1963 - 16th - Jesmond, UK. This year's meeting was hosted by the Tyneside Branch, and was held at the Friend's Meeting House, Jesmond, on the weekend of May 3-5, 1963. Highlights included: a coach trip to the ship-building yard of John Readhead & Sons, Ltd. at South Shields, a view of the new MEDIA on the slipway.
1962 - 15th - Cardiff, Wales, UK. The South Wales Branch hosted this meeting on May 5th, 1962
1961 - 14th - Liverpool, UK. May 13th, hosted by the Merseyside Branch
1960 - 13th - Southampton,UK. May 28th, hosted by the Southampton Branch, while the branch was celebrating its own 10th anniversary
1959 - 12th - London, UK. May 9th, hosted by the London and Home Counties Branch
1958 - 11th - Liverpool, UK. May 10th, hosted by the Merseyside Branch
1957 - 10th - London, UK. May 4th, hosted by the London & Counties Br
1956 - 9th - Liverpool, UK. April 28th, hosted by the Merseyside Branch
1955 - 8th - London, UK. March 5th, hosted by the London & Counties Branch, was held at the Bonnington Hotel, Bloomsbury
The Eighth Annual General Meeting of the World Ship Society was held on Saturday, the 5th of March, at the Bonnington Hotel, London.
Owing to the unavoidable absence of Commander A.C. Hardy, President of the Society, Mr A.L. Bland again took the chair, and opened the proceedings by welcoming all those present.
Cables of good wishes were read from Commander Alan Easton, D.S.C., R.C.N., Chairman, and Miss A.R. Wolff, Secretary, of the Montreal Branch.
Mr Bert Moody, Honorary Secretary of the Society, commenced his report on the activities of the year 1954 by announcing that in addition to achieving the year’s target membership of 750, our membership had now passed the 800-mark. A number of most encouraging developments had, he said, taken place during the year, both at home and overseas. At home, two new branches had been formed, first the “West Riding of Yorkshire,” centred on Leeds, for which the credit went to Messrs Brian Evans and Bob Soper, and then the one in Belfast, for which Mr Basil Devenish-Meares was mainly responsible. Mr Moody continued by saying that the established branches of the Society, in Liverpool, Nottingham and Southampton, had continued to flourish, while it was pleasing to record a lively revival of the London Branch thanks to the efforts of Mr John Richardson as Vice-Chairman, and the Secretary, Mr John Daneill, who had been ably assisted by Mr A.L. Sargeant. Turning to the Society overseas, Mr Moody said that the most active branches had been those in Canada, where Miss Annette Wolff had produced marvellous results and the Montreal Branch had gone from strength to strength. The developments in Vancouver, thanks to the efforts of several members in that area, had been practically as good. The Cape Town Branch, in South Africa, under the leadership of Mr R.M. Scott, was another which had expanded during the year and this branch was especially to be congratulated on the publication of their magazine, Flotsam and Jetsam. There had not been as much activity with the other branches in the Union as the Society would have liked, but this had been due to various circumstances. A new Secretary, M J.S. Haslam, had recently been elected for Port Elizabeth, and the hope was expressed that this would result in the emergence of another important branch of the Society. In Australia, where the members are so scattered, it was not possible to form a branch, but in order to link together members in that country, the production of a quarterly magazine, The Log, was commenced early in 1954. Mr T.S. Stevens, the Australian Agent, and Mr S.J. Evans were responsible for the first edition, but Mr Ian Farquhar, the Society’s Agent in New Zealand, had since joined forces with them in making The Log a joint publication for members in Australia and New Zealand. Considerable assistance had been given in this enterprise by Mr N.L. McKellar and Miss R. Corderoy. Mr Moody mentioned that there had been no great development in the European countries where the membership had remained fairly static. In the United States of America, however, several new members had been obtained and he had no doubt that there was still great scope for increasing the membership in that country.
Turning to other developments, Mr Moody said that possibly the most important step forward had been the publication of the booklet in conjunction with Messrs Hunting & Son, Ltd, giving a short history and a complete “fleet list” of all the ships owned by that company. He also mentioned the efforts of one individual member, Mr Donald Anderson, who organised the highly-successful “Bristol Channel Steam Packets” Exhibition which was held in the Bristol City Museum from the 2nd to the 26th of August, 1954, to mark the Centenary of the White Funnel Fleet. As a result of Mr Anderson’s efforts considerable publicity had been given to the Society in the Bristol and South Wales areas and the formation of the South Wales Branch was among the fruits of his labours. Mr Moody then spoke of the Photograph Rounds in the United Kingdom which had, he said, worked very satisfactorily, thanks to the efforts of Mr Keith Abraham, and an increasing number of members were participating in these rounds. Mr Moody regretted, however, that he could not say the same regarding the Overseas Rounds as Mr John Holme had had temporarily to suspend these owing to several of the packets going astray and, also, delay had been caused by some members retaining the packets longer than was necessary. It was, however, intended to reorganise the scheme and introduce smaller rounds with, it is hoped, more satisfactory results. If losses and delays do continue, though, consideration may have to be given to the discontinuation of the overseas arrangements. Whilst on the subject of photographs, Mr Moody mentioned that New Zealand members had arranged an excellent scheme for financing The Log by selling photographs to members in the Society. All profits from the sales of these photographs were being used towards meeting the cost of publishing their magazine, and over one thousand photographs had been sold in six months. During the year, members in the United Kingdom had also had the opportunity of obtaining aerial photographs at a special reduced price from Skyfotos of Lympne Airport, and it is the intention to extend this scheme to embrace overseas members during 1955.
Another project of the Society which had steadily developed during the year was the Catalogue of Photographs, thanks to the labours of Messrs Roy Griffin and John Holme, and other members in the Nottingham area. Mr Moody was pleased to announce that Mr Holme was now in a position to accept a limited number of queries regarding photographs but a stamped addressed envelope must be enclosed with each query and whenever possible, the approximate date of the build of the vessel concerned should be quoted. Concluding his report, Mr Moody said that without doubt 1954 was a highly successful year for the Society and it had taken a further stride in establishing itself as the Society for anyone and everyone who was interested in ships. The need in the future was, as always, for more members, for the more the Society can enrol, the more it would be able to offer members to make more people “ship-conscious”.
For the balance of this extensive report, see Marine News Vol. IX. No. 3, March 1955, page 47
1954 - 7th - London, UK. October 24th
1953 - 6th - London, UK. Meeting was held at the Russell Hotel, Bloomsbury, on 18th October
1952 - 5th - London, UK. The 5th Annual General Meeting of the World Ship Society was held aboard WELLINGTON, Temple Stairs, London on December 8th 1951.
1951 - 4th - London, UK. 4th Annual General Meeting held on October 28th 1950 aboard WELLINGTON, Temple Stairs, London
An item in the minutes of a meeting in December 1949, produced the following:- "Thanks were expressed to Mr. S.E. Beck for designing the World Ship Society crest which appeared for the first time in this issue of Marine News."
It is believed that a detailed story about the creation of the logo exists. If anyone knows of such, or knows who might be able to fill in this gap, please contact the webmaster@worldshipsociety.org
We are starting to put together a history of various items that have been produced over the years for our members. In addition to some early publications, a number of merchandise items have been produced to commemorate meetings or other special events, such as anniversaries or AGMs. Over the years the Society has marketed a number of merchandise items, and all these will eventually be identified and listed — but, just as "Items of Interest".
Note: just because an item is listed below, it does not mean it is currently available.
This lapel pin recently surfaced, but no one seems to know when it was produced or for what occasion it was commemorating. Instead of a latched pin on the reverse, this one has a large "C" on the back, apparently used to place in a buttonhole.
This enamelled lapel pin was a popular item in the 1990s, and many members still wear theirs.
This unusual pin has surfaced, but again it is not widely known to exist. Blue enamel on what appears to be silver base (or silver plate).
This is a bit of a mystery item. Obviously presented to the Vancouver Branch, this wooden plaque measures about 5 inches by 5 inches and has a stand attached to the back. Does anyone have any detail of the reason why these plaques were produced?
At the 1990 AGM held in Dorset, delegates were given this white 4" x 6½" porcelain dish, printed inside with "1990 A.G.M. Dorset"
Paper weight. This is a bit of a mystery item. It is a block of marble measuring about 2 sq inches by ½ inch high, with an enamelled crest with the words "World Ship Society". If anyone can identify the occasion for offering this item, please contact the webmaster with details. webmaster@worldshipsociety.org
At the 1997 AGM held in Liverpool, all attending delegates were given a souvenir of the occasion.
This sewn blazer badge is 3½ inches in diameter (92mm) in gold, silver and black. Ideal for sewing on to your favourite blazer, sweater or backpack. Machine-stitched on black denim. [This was a very popular merchandise item, and many WSS members still proudly wear garments with one of these badges attached.]
Plaque — Golden WSS 3-ship logo contained within 3-inch diameter circle, ringed with silver-coloured metal, mounted on 6-inch x 7-inch mahogany-coloured wood board. Had folded, plastic stand fastened to reverse. Insert was also sold as a grille badge for the car.
Window decal - incorporating 3-ship logo. 5-inch diameter window decal designed in form of life-ring. Words around "World Ship Society", with our famous 3-ship logo in centre and black rope edging. Black & white only. These decals were ideal for your car windscreen or any glass area.
These polyester neck ties were made in England. They featured diagonal stripes with our famous 3-ship logo. 3 inches wide. Hard-waring, crush-resistant. [Not many men today wear shirts requiring ties, so the item was discontinued, but many WSS members still own one and will wear it at special occasions such as our Annual General Meetings.]
1-inch diameter ring attached to variously coloured fobs. Both sides of fob had a miniature version of the old-style 3-ship logo
Book Marks — incorporating 3-ship logo — '8½ inches long. Your choice of: Red, black, green or blue. Imprinted with "World Ship Society" and our famous 3-ship logo.
Cuff links. Set of two links. Brushed silver-coloured metal incorporating the WSS flag in light blue colour. Came in a nice gift box. Each link was 30mm x 18mm. No longer available. [How many men today wear shirts requiring cuff links?]
'Long-sleeve pullover sweater, 'Super acrylic, long-sleeve sweaters came in your choice of colours and sizes. Each had a permanently woven-in blazer badge incorporating our famous 3-ship logo (see details of Blazer Badges). Sweater colour choices were navy blue, black, grey, royal blue, maroon and red. These sweaters are now a prize possession for many members, and can be seen on delegates to meetings and tours. No longer available.
Now, the first part of the Detailed Chronological History
Part 1 -- The Formative Years JANUARY 1947 (50 members) --
Part 1 of Volume 1 of Marine News was first published in duplicated form. This was followed by Part 2 in February 1947. Mr. Crowdy, the founder of the Club, said in his editorial that he hoped to increase the membership of the Club from its present 50 to 250. When this figure was reached, it was intended to publish Marine News in magazine form with illustrations.
JUNE 1947 (130 members) -- The first issue of Volume 2 of Marine News appeared in format with a photograph of the ex-German vessel HUASCARAN (taken by Mr. Crowdy) on page 2. In his editorial, Mr. Crowdy commented that membership of the Ship News Club had risen to 130 and a "Mutual Interests" organisation was first mentioned. The editorship of Marine News would be undertaken by Mr. Crowdy.
DECEMBER 1947 (200 members) -- The issue of December 1947 (Vol. 2, No. 2 -- 16 pages) contained a short review of the first year of the Ship News Club. The "birthday" of the Club was established as January 1st 1947 and since that date membership had risen to 200. The cost of one issue of the magazine amounted to £8 (or 90 subscriptions) and although Mr. Crowdy apologised for his inability to publish more than two issues in the year owing to economic difficulties, he considered that the Club was doing fairly well and expressed his desire to see the Ship News Club on a par with the Steamship Historical Society of America. The membership aim was 400 by the end of 1948. This issue of Marine News contained an advert for the sale of warship and merchant ship photographs available from Mr. P.A. Vicary of Cromer -- the first large display advert to appear in Marine News.
APRIL 1948 (270 members) -- This month saw the appearance of Vol. 2, No. 3 -- 8 pages. An increase in the subscription had become necessary and henceforth it would be 2/- per annum. Previous editions of the journal had been printed by Titus Wilson & Son Ltd., 28 Highgate, Kendal but this work had now been transferred to the Guardian Press, Warrington, Lancs. Membership had risen to 270 and Marine News carried the first of the "Ships Building and on Order" lists -- the work of Denis A. Wilkins. A fresh layout had also been introduced in the magazine and the information given was now divided into warship and merchant ship types.
JULY 1948 (330 members) -- Vol. 2, No. 4 -- 8 pages. Membership of the Club was rapidly increasing and 60 new members had joined since April 1948. The Inaugural Meeting of the London Branch (later to become the London & Home Counties Branch) was held in the Crete Restaurant, Percy Street, London on the 7th June 1948. The Inaugural Meeting of the Liverpool (Merseyside) Branch was due to be held on July 17th in Liverpool. Mr. Denis A. Wilkins had been appointed Associate Editor of Marine News.
OCTOBER 1948 (500 members) -- Vol. 2, No. 5 -- 8 pages. It was stated in the editorial to Marine News that a Constitution for the Ship News Club had been drawn up, the proposal to do so having been made at a London Branch meeting. The question of increasing the subscription to 10/- p.a. was also raised at the meeting. Membership of the Ship News Club now stood at 500. Reports of branch meetings first appeared in this edition of Marine News. The details of the London & Home Counties Branch meeting were submitted by Denis A. Wilkins and the Inaugural Meeting of the Merseyside Branch was reported by Kenneth Brown. This took place on July 17th in Liverpool. Inaugural meetings of the Barrow-in-Furness Branch (September 4th) and of the Bristol Branch (September 17th at the Crown & Dove Hotel) were also reported.
DECEMBER 1948 -- Vol. 2, No. 6 -- 8 pages. In his review of 1948 Mr. Crowdy stated that membership of the Ship News Club was still on the increase and progress had exceeded his rosiest dreams. He hoped that Marine News would go from its present size to 12 and then 16 pages during 1949 but this would depend on the financial situation. Illustrations would be used whenever possible. Cataloguing of photographs and photographic negatives of ships was first raised in this issue and an offer had been received from Mr. C. Parsons to undertake this work. Sources from which 120,000 negatives were available to members were known to the Club but these had not, as yet, been listed. Photographic "Postal Rounds" (prints of ships) had already been started.
JANUARY 1949 -- Vol. 3, No. 1 -- 12 pages. By this time the subscription to the Ship News Club had been increased to 12/- p.a. but as Mr. Crowdy had promised, Marine News had increased in size and illustrations had been included, the blocks having been loaned to the Club by Shipping World. Membership cards containing the rules of the Club had been produced and would be distributed in February.
FEBRUARY 1949 -- Vol. 3, No. 2 -- 12 pages. It was announced that the Ship News Club was to become associated with the International Maritime Exchange of the U.S.A. and information regarding other organisations with whom we were co-operating were named as below: National Maritime Museum (Photographic Records Department) Liverpool Nautical Research Society The Solent Shiplovers' Society, Portsmouth Lt/Cdr E.C. Talbot-Booth's Ship Recognition Clubs. The Thanet Shiplovers' Society of Margate had become affiliated to the Ship News Club. A list of Overseas Agents was also given as: Belgium: Mons. P. Scarceriaux Denmark: Herr Kai Neilsen Eire: Mr. Tom O'Driscoll Jr. France: Comte P. de Meslon Germany: Herr Bruno Bock Italy: Ing. Luigi Accorsi Netherlands: Mynheer L.L. von Munching New Zealand: Mr. F.S. Baldwin Norway: Mr. Knut Berg Sweden: Kommondorkaptan Allan Kull Mr. L.J. Baee of High Wycombe, Bucks was acting as the General Agent in Great Britain for Overseas Branches.
MARCH 1949 -- Vol. 3, No. 3 -- 12 pages. The Isle of Wight Branch reported a visit to the National Maritime Museum (The Inaugural Meeting of this branch had not previously been reported).
MAY 1949 -- Vol. 3, No. 5 -- 12 pages. Mr Crowdy, in his editorial, said that he hoped to increase the size of Marine News to 20 pages in the near future and a modelling section and articles in other languages was being considered. News of a new branch in Australia was given, inquiries to be addressed to Mr. N.L. McKellar of Tamworth, N.S.W.
JULY 1949 -- Vol. 3, No. 7 -- 20 pages. The July 1949 edition saw the advent of the 20-page Marine News containing three illustrations. An announcement appeared to the effect that the first Annual General Meeting of the Ship News Club would be held aboard WELLINGTON, Temple Stairs, London on Wednesday, September 21st 1949. At this meeting it was hoped to rectify the Constitution of the Ship News Club and appoint the Club's officers for 1950. Brief details were given of the reciprocal arrangements made between the London & Home Counties Branch and the Thames Ship Model Society.
SEPTEMBER 1949 -- Vol. 3, No. 9 -- 16 pages. A brief announcement appeared that the Annual General Meeting of the Ship News Club had been held aboard WELLINGTON on Wednesday, September 21st 1949 and at the meeting it had been decided to change the name of the Ship News Club to the World Ship Society. A full report of the meeting to be published in the October edition of Marine News.
OCTOBER 1949 -- Vol. 3, No. 10 -- 16 pages. The first Annual General Meeting of the Ship News Club / World Ship Society was held aboard WELLINGTON on Wednesday, 23rd September 1949 at 7:30 p.m. In the chair was Cdr. A.C. Hardy, B.Sc., M.I.N.A. He spoke about the Constitution of the SNC / WSS and outlined the objects of the Society which were: 1. To unite in a single organisation all who are interested in ships of all ages and types, including their modelling and collection of their photographs, prints and other illustrations. 2. To work in the closest co-operation with other existing Marine Research and other Shiplovers' Societies in this country and abroad. 3. To make available through its correspondence service the knowledge and experience of experts in every branch of ship lore. 4. To publish a monthly magazine, Marine News, which is a digest of the latest news in the world of shipping and includes, in addition, specialised articles and items of members' research. 5. To create a central index of photographs and general information. 6. To form branches of the Society in all possible localities to enable members to meet together for discussion and to arrange visits to ships, docks, yards and other places of maritime interest. Branch membership is automatic and does not entail any further basic financial subscription. Area secretaries, however, are authorised to recover any expenses incurred by such meetings from participating members. Membership is open to all and the subscription rates, which include 12 editions of Marine News are: Life Membership 25 gns. Benefactor £3 p.a. Ordinary Membership 12/- p.a. Junior Membership (under 18 yrs.) 8/- p.a. Cdr. Hardy then introduced the Founder and General Secretary, Mr. Michael Crowdy. Mr. Crowdy reviewed the progress of the Club since its inception in 1946 and then proposed that the Ship News Club should be renamed the World Ship Society which was approved and accepted. Cdr. Hardy was elected President of the World Ship Society and Dr. Oscar Parkes as Vice President. The Committee was also elected and comprised Messrs. A.L. Bland, G. Brownell, A. Campbell, R.S. Craig, Le Comte de Guitaut, R. Hackman, W.B. Hallam, P.N. Hamilton, Hall-Guy, G.E. Langmuir, C. Parsons and Smale. The Assistant General Secretary was to be Mr. Denis A. Wilkins F.R.G.S. Mr. L.J. Baee, our Overseas Agent, had emigrated to Australia and Monsieur de Guitaut had taken over. Membership of the World Ship Society stood at over 400 at this time.
DECEMBER 1949 -- Vol. 3, No. 12 -- 20 pages. Editorial comment by Mr. Crowdy -- "The World Ship Society which has emerged from the Ship News Club is undoubtedly succeeding, far more so than we reasonably could have hoped this time in 1948 and we have a team of amateurs backing us up, the likes of which has probably never before been brought together in this sphere." "Our aim is simple, to make the Society the greatest of its kind in the world and with the support of as enthusiastic a membership as we have had in 1949 the prospects for the future are indeed bright." Thanks were expressed to Mr. S.E. Beck for designing the World Ship Society crest which appeared for the first time in this issue of Marine News. A report of a Founder's Dinner held in the Great Eastern Hotel, London on November 29th 1949 was carried in this edition. The President of the Society, Cdr. A.C. Hardy, introduced the speakers and in his own speech, praised the work done by Mr. Crowdy for the Ship News Club and World Ship Society and it was not possible to keep up so many contacts as he had been able to do in the past. He pointed out, however, that local branches could help to breach the gap and the "Mutual Interests" Scheme would help to establish and maintain personal contact among members.
FEBRUARY 1950 -- Vol. 4, No.2 -- 20 pages. "Mutual Interests matters were the main theme of the editorial. Mr. Craig had prepared his lists of members with similar interests. Mr. Crowdy made an appeal to the more enthusiastic members of the Society to assist in the running of the organisation. Mr. A.L. Bland, at a meeting of the Merseyside Branch, explained how his interest in ships first began and offered to help any member with shipping information from his records -- the forerunner of the World Ship Society Central Record.
JUNE 1950 -- Vol. 4, No. 6 -- 20 pages. The opening of the first Overseas Branch (as distinct from an Overseas Agency) in Bermuda was announced, the Inaugural Meeting being held on June 9th. Mr. D. Trimingham was to be Chairman, Mr. A. Straight Vice-Chairman and Mr. H.H. Outerbridge Secretary-Treasurer. Members of the Society who had taken the April editorial to mean that the World Ship Society was on its last legs were sadly mistaken, said Mr. Crowdy in his editorial. The Society was, in fact, in a very healthy state and it was because of this more volunteers were required to assist in the running of the organisation.
JULY 1950 -- Vol. 4, No. 7 -- 16 pages. It was announced that the Merseyside Branch had been asked to undertake the "Model Ships" exhibition at Liverpool as part of the 1951 Festival of Britain. This issue saw the publication of Fleet List No. 1 by R.M. Hackman -- the history of Allan, Black & Co. (Albyn Line). AUGUST 1950 -- Vol. 4, No. 8 -- 16 pages. News was given of another Overseas Branch, this time Norway and centred in Oslo. The Inaugural Meeting was held on June 7th 1950; the Secretary being Mr. Knut Berg.
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 1950 -- Vol. 4, No's 9 & 10 -- 28 pages. This issue contained a report of the 4th Annual General Meeting held on October 28th 1950 aboard WELLINGTON, Temple Stairs, London. The meeting was opened by the President, Cdr. A.C. Hardy. Mr. Crowdy, founder and Secretary, reported that 115 new members had joined the World Ship Society since the beginning of 1950. Mr. Denis A. Wilkins was soon to give up the Secretaryship of the London & Home Counties Branch but Mr. A.E. Nicholls was to replace him. The Merseyside Branch had also been deprived of its Secretary, Mr. Ken Brown, but here again a successor, Mr. E.A Worthy, had been appointed. Mr. Crowdy then went on to state that the Society's "20 Year Plan" envisaged an index of all ships over 100 tons gross built since 1800 of which details were known. Many people had claimed that the task was impossible but the Society intended to prove them wrong. Mr. Denis Wilkins, Joint Editor of Marine News, reported that a new cover for the magazine would appear in 1951 and expressed his thanks to Mr. Stuart E. Beck who was working on the design. The following Officers were then elected for 1951: President Cdr. A.C. Hardy Vice-President Dr. Oscar Parkes Vice-President Mr. A.L. Bland Committee Mr. J.E. Beaufoy Mr. S.E. Beck Mr. A.L. Bland Mr. G.E.P. Brownell s. Marine News appeared with a new cover. Green had been chosen as the colour with Marine News printed in white at the top followed by "Journal of the World Ship Society" in black. The Society's crest on a white background was in the centre of the cover with a small, white anchor below, followed by volume, number and date at the cover bottom in black on a white background. The objects of the Society were printed on the inside cover plus details of membership and subscription. On page 3, Mr. A.L. Bland gave brief details of the Central Index. The main trunk of the tree would be the alphabetical card index of all ships of all nations with a brief outline of each vessel's history, dimensions, disposal, etc. Springing from this were the branches -- Fleet and Company histories, photographs, negatives, plans, etc., ports and harbours, shipbuilders and engineers, flags and funnels, bibliography.
FEBRUARY 1951 -- Vol. 5, No. 2 -- 20 pages. Further details of the Central Index, or as it had now become, the Central Record, were given in this issue and dealt with the place of warships in the Record. The details required followed broadly the pattern of the mercantile section. For the first time a list of merchant ship Sales, Transfers and Re-namings appeared in this edition, the work of Mr. A.L. Bland and Mr. C.J.M. Carter.
MARCH 1951 -- Vol. 5, No. 3 -- 16 pages. In addition to the publishing of Sales, Transfers and Re-namings in list form, this issue saw the introduction of ships sold for demolition also in list form. APRIL 1951 -- Vol. 5, No. 4 -- 16 pages. The editorial consisted of a "Progress Report" concerning the Central Record and it was stated that considerable work had been done.
MAY 1951 -- Vol. 5, No. 5 -- 16 pages. It was stated in the editorial that owing to the rising costs of publishing Marine News an increase in subscription had become inevitable.
JUNE 1951 -- Vol. 5, No. 6 -- 16 pages. As forecast the previous month subscription rates would have to be increased and this would apply as from July. The Ordinary Membership fee would be £1 -- an increase of 8/-. It was announced that the post of Secretary/Treasurer previously undertaken by Mr. Crowdy, would be separated and Mr. P.G. Waugh, A.I.C.S. had been appointed Treasurer of the World Ship Society.
JULY 1951 -- Vol. 5, No. 7 -- 16 pages. As a first step towards a working relationship with the Steamship Historical Society of America, it was announced that a reciprocal arrangement had been made between the two societies for the payment of subscriptions.
AUGUST 1951 -- Vol. 5, No. 8 -- 16 pages. The editorial in this issue was devoted to the first exhibition staged by the World Ship Society -- a stand in the "Daylight on Industry" exhibition in the Liverpool Festival. The main feature, "The Ship of A.D. 2000" as envisaged by Cdr. A.C. Hardy was illustrated by Mr. S.E. Beck. The general layout of the stand was the responsibility of Mr. Michael Crowdy and the actual construction was carried out by Messrs. Waugh, MacArthur, Carter and Brennan. Reading between the lines it would appear that a lively time was had by all!
SEPTEMBER 1951 -- Vol. 5, No. 9 -- 16 pages. The editorial discussed many aspects of Marine News in reply to a letter sent to Mr. Crowdy by a member who criticised some of the contents. An informal meeting on August 23rd launched the Nottingham Branch of the Society, the Secretary being Mr. John Holme.
OCTOBER 1951 -- Vol. 5, No. 10 -- 16 pages. It was announced, with regret, that Mr. Denis A. Wilkins had found it necessary to relinquish his posts as Deputy Hon. Secretary of the Society and also as Joint Editor of Marine News. Mr. C.J.M. Carter had been appointed Assistant Editor of Marine News. Again, with regret, it was announced that Mr. Eugene Smith had been obliged to give up his position as U.S. Agent for the World Ship Society. Prof. John H. Kemble of Pomona College, Claremont had agreed to be Mr. Smith's successor.
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 1951 -- Vol. 5, No's 11 & 12 -- 24 pages. Mr. Crowdy reviewed the advance of the World Ship Society during 1951. He touched on the rapid progress of the Central Record, the departure of Denis Wilkins from the Deputy Editorship of Marine News, the Liverpool Festival exhibition and the increase in the cost of subscriptions, etc. Society membership had risen steadily throughout the year to the highest yet attained.
JANUARY 1952 -- Vol. 6, No. 1 -- 16 pages. The 5th Annual General Meeting of the World Ship Society was held aboard WELLINGTON, Temple Stairs, London on December 8th 1951. The President, Cdr. A.C. Hardy opened the proceedings. Mr. Michael Crowdy in his report, said that 1951 had been a year of great progress for the Society. Two further branches were under consideration -- one of them in the Midlands. The established branches in New Zealand and Canada and a potential branch in South Africa were mentioned in a report from Mr. John Holme which was read by Mr. Crowdy. The following officers were elected for 1952: President Cdr. A.C. Hardy Vice-President Dr. Oscar Parkes Vice-President Mr. A.L. Bland Committee Mr. J.E. Beaufoy Mr. S.E. Beck Mr. A.L. Bland Mr. G.E.P. Brownell Mr. C.J.M. Carter Mr. R. Garnett Mr. R.M. Hackman Mr. E.P. Harnack Mr. R. Kendall Mr. G.E. Langmuir Mr. J. Moore Mr. C. Parsons Mr. P.G. Waugh's appointment as Treasurer of the Society was confirmed. Mr. A.L. Bland reported on the Central Record indicating the size of the task with figures which appeared astronomical. He thanked various members for the work they had already done and stressed the necessity of individuals pooling their information. Part 2 -- The Intermediate Years This part of the World Ship Society history has yet to be fully documented. Let's just say that this section is under "construction"
The foregoing history is taken from the notes of the late Cliff Parsons. His notes cover the period from inception to January 1952. The Webmaster is looking for someone in the Society to fill in the remaining years with a format similar to the foregoing. If you can help, please contact us at webmaster@worldshipsociety.org
Here we present both a "Short" history of the World Ship Society, followed at the bottom of the page by a rather lengthy "Chronological" version.
This lapel pin recently surfaced, but no one seems to know when it was produced or for what occasion it was commemorating. Instead of a latched pin on the reverse, this one has a large "C" on the back, apparently used to place in a buttonhole.
This enamelled lapel pin was a popular item in the 1990s, and many members still wear theirs.
This unusual pin has surfaced, but again it is not widely known to exist. Blue enamel on what appears to be silver base (or silver plate).
This is a bit of a mystery item. Obviously presented to the Vancouver Branch, this wooden plaque measures about 5 inches by 5 inches and has a stand attached to the back. Does anyone have any detail of the reason why these plaques were produced?
At the 1990 AGM held in Dorset, delegates were given this white 4" x 6½" porcelain dish, printed inside with "1990 A.G.M. Dorset"
Paper weight. This is a bit of a mystery item. It is a block of marble measuring about 2 sq inches by ½ inch high, with an enamelled crest with the words "World Ship Society". If anyone can identify the occasion for offering this item, please contact the webmaster with details. 
At the 1997 AGM held in Liverpool, all attending delegates were given a souvenir of the occasion. 
This sewn blazer badge is 3½ inches in diameter (92mm) in gold, silver and black. Ideal for sewing on to your favourite blazer, sweater or backpack. Machine-stitched on black denim. [This was a very popular merchandise item, and many WSS members still proudly wear garments with one of these badges attached.]
Plaque — Golden WSS 3-ship logo contained within 3-inch diameter circle, ringed with silver-coloured metal, mounted on 6-inch x 7-inch mahogany-coloured wood board. Had folded, plastic stand fastened to reverse. Insert was also sold as a grille badge for the car.
Window decal - incorporating 3-ship logo. 5-inch diameter window decal designed in form of life-ring. Words around "World Ship Society", with our famous 3-ship logo in centre and black rope edging. Black & white only. These decals were ideal for your car windscreen or any glass area.
These polyester neck ties were made in England. They featured diagonal stripes with our famous 3-ship logo. 3 inches wide. Hard-waring, crush-resistant. [Not many men today wear shirts requiring ties, so the item was discontinued, but many WSS members still own one and will wear it at special occasions such as our Annual General Meetings.]
1-inch diameter ring attached to variously coloured fobs. Both sides of fob had a miniature version of the old-style 3-ship logo
Book Marks — incorporating 3-ship logo — '8½ inches long. Your choice of: Red, black, green or blue. Imprinted with "World Ship Society" and our famous 3-ship logo.
Cuff links. Set of two links. Brushed silver-coloured metal incorporating the WSS flag in light blue colour. Came in a nice gift box. Each link was 30mm x 18mm. No longer available. [How many men today wear shirts requiring cuff links?]
'Long-sleeve pullover sweater, 'Super acrylic, long-sleeve sweaters came in your choice of colours and sizes. Each had a permanently woven-in blazer badge incorporating our famous 3-ship logo (see details of Blazer Badges). Sweater colour choices were navy blue, black, grey, royal blue, maroon and red. These sweaters are now a prize possession for many members, and can be seen on delegates to meetings and tours. No longer available.