Clyde River and Other Steamers

Clyde River and Other Steamers

Authors: C.L.D. Duckworth and G.E. Langmuir
Publisher: Brown, Son and Ferguson
Edition: First Edition, 1937
Pages: 254

First published in 1937, Clyde River and Other Steamers by C.L.D. Duckworth and G.E. Langmuir is a classic and richly illustrated tribute to one of Scotland’s most iconic maritime traditions. This 254-page volume offers a fascinating historical exploration of the Clyde River steamers—those proud paddle and screw vessels that once dominated the waters of the Clyde and nearby coastal routes, providing vital passenger and freight services.

This book stands out as one of the earliest and most detailed studies on the topic, capturing the essence of a bygone era with a historian’s precision and an enthusiast’s passion. It chronicles not only the evolution of the steamers themselves—from the earliest wooden paddle vessels to more advanced iron-hulled steamships—but also the social, economic, and technological changes they reflected.

Duckworth and Langmuir delve into the shipbuilding innovations that emerged from the Clyde’s bustling yards, tracing the rise of Glasgow and surrounding towns as powerhouses of maritime engineering. With a keen eye for technical detail, the authors catalog numerous vessels by name, builder, specifications, routes, and anecdotes, creating a reference-rich volume that appeals to historians, model shipbuilders, and steamship aficionados alike.

Equally significant is the book’s portrayal of the vibrant culture surrounding the Clyde steamers—the excursions, regattas, and everyday commutes that made these vessels beloved symbols of Scottish identity. Photographs and illustrations complement the text, helping readers visualize the grandeur and elegance of the steamers in their prime.

By situating the Clyde steamers within the broader context of British and international maritime history, Duckworth and Langmuir create more than a catalog—they tell the story of a region transformed by industrial progress and deeply connected to its rivers and coasts. The book preserves an era of innovation and beauty that faded with the decline of steam navigation, making it a timeless record of engineering and heritage.

Clyde River and Other Steamers remains an essential resource for maritime historians, preservationists, and anyone fascinated by the romantic and industrious age of steam on the rivers of Scotland.

• Classic 1937 first edition documenting the history of Clyde River steamers.

• Authored by maritime historians C.L.D. Duckworth and G.E. Langmuir.

• Detailed profiles of paddle and screw steamers, including ship specs and histories.

• Covers the cultural and industrial significance of steam navigation in Scotland.

• Includes historical photographs and illustrations of vessels and river scenes.

• Explores the rise of Clyde shipbuilding and its global impact.

• Essential reference for maritime history enthusiasts and collectors.

• A nostalgic tribute to a defining era in Scottish transport and heritage.