Builders: Fairfield Shipbuilding & Engineering Co. Ltd 1903
Propulsion type: Paddle two crank triple expansion engine
Owners: Caledonian Steam Packet Co
Service dates: 1903 - 1953
Tonnage: Gross 336
Comments:
Duchess of Fife was the first steamer built by Fairfields for Clyde service. She achieved over 17 knots on her trials and was considered a most economical steamer, seeing service all year round. During the First World war she saw service as a minesweeper out of Grimsby until de-commissioning in 1919. In 1923 she came under the control of the LMS railway, along with other "Caley" boats. She was again requistioned in the Second World War, initially as a minesweeper, then as a training ship on the Forth. The Duchess of Fife went aground at Kirn in August 1936 but was refloated without serious damage soon after. In 1945 she was virtually rebuilt and lasted until 1953 after being laid up following the introduction of the new motor vessels. In September 1953 she suffered a small fire and shortly afterwards was towed to Port Glasgow for breaking up. Her bell could still be seen on the Old Pier in Millport after she was broken up, but I do not know where it now is. For a close up of her paddle box click here.