Builders: A & J Inglis 1898
Propulsion type: Paddle, simple diagonal
Owners: Dumbarton & Balloch Joint Line Committee, London Midland & Scottish and London& North Eastern Railway Companies
Service dates: 1899 - 1938
Tonnage: Gross 256
Comments:
This beautifully atmospheric picture was taken in about 1930, by John P. Rodd 1906 -1969, and is displayed here by kind permission of his son John.
PS Prince George was built after a period of dispute as to whether she should have the traditional simple diagonal or the more modern compound diagonal engines. There was much debate between the two sides of the "Joint Committee", who comprised representatives of the North British Steamship Co (a subsidiary of the North British Railway), the Caledonian and Lanarkshire & Dumbarton Railways. In the end the matter went to arbitration as agreement could not be reached. The larger compound diagonal boat could have been constructed at Balloch, on the Loch, whereas the smaller simple diagonal boat would be smaller and could be constructed at Pointhouse and towed up the Leven. In the event the smaller boat was commissioned and came into service in 1899. Her machinery meant she was rather expensive to operate although she was a pleasant looking boat. Most of her service was on the Balloch to Ardlui route, although she did do some afternoon excursion work. She was withdrawn and laid up at Balloch in 1938.