Postcard of the Month: March 2024
/Sailing Vessel off Littlehampton
Frank Spry was one of the few postcard publishers who regularly produced work showing vessels under sail, arriving or departing. Sometimes the vessels were heavily laden and low in the water, or on other occasions empty and in ballast riding high out of the water, as shown here. Possibly Frank Spry was aboard ‘Jumna’’ when she provided towage and a pilot in or out of the harbour.
This vessel is not identified by name, although ‘OERNEN’ is written on the back in pencil. The Plimsoll Line can be seen on the ship's side, suggesting she was empty after delivering her cargo to Littlehampton, perhaps with just enough added ballast to maintain stability under sail. The flag shows her to be Danish, possibly from Marstal, where many similar craft were built and operated.
Three crew are visible on deck; one at the helm, the other two preparing the mizzen sail for hoisting. She would have needed every bit of her canvas to keep her under way in the light wind from the west.
The photograph was probably taken in the early 1900s, but more research will be needed to confirm the date and the vessel’s identity. Any further information would be very welcome.