Steamship Shieldhall, Southampton

The SS Shieldhall is a remarkable preserved steamship based in Southampton. As the largest operational historic steamship in Europe, she stands as a living example of maritime engineering from a bygone era. Built in 1954 by Lobnitz & Company of Renfrew, Shieldhall features traditional open-crank steam engines, a rarity by the 1950s. Originally a "Clyde sludge boat," she transported treated sewage sludge from Glasgow down the River Clyde for 21 years before being transferred to Southampton.

In Southampton, Shieldhall continued her sludge-transporting duties until 1985 when rising fuel costs led to her withdrawal from service. Fortunately, the steamship was saved from being scrapped by a coalition of preservationists, including the Southampton University Industrial Archaeological Society. Since 1988, Shieldhall has been operated by The Solent Steam Packet Limited, a charity that maintains her with the help of dedicated volunteers.

Restored to sea-going conditions, Shieldhall now offers public cruises, giving passengers the unique opportunity to visit the bridge and engine room, experiencing firsthand the inner workings of a classic steamship. Shieldhall’s historic value is recognized by her inclusion in the National Historic Fleet’s Core Collection. She is a regular sight on the Solent and has participated in numerous maritime festivals and events, including the River Festival in Glasgow and the International Festivals of the Sea.

In 2012, to commemorate the centenary of the Titanic's sinking, Shieldhall was repainted in the White Star Line’s iconic livery, and she continues to maintain this look. More recently, in 2023, she served as the official Committee vessel for the Ocean Globe race, providing a nostalgic connection to maritime history.

Shieldhall’s enduring legacy extends to her appearances in television and film, including "Casualty," "Angela's Ashes," and "Bright Young Things," solidifying her status as an important cultural and historical artifact.