The speedy and economic working of the Belfast steamers, compared
with those of the ordinary type, having now become well known, a
scheme was set on foot in 1869 for employing similar vessels,
though of larger size, for passenger and goods accommodation
between England and America. Mr. T. H. Ismay,of Liverpool, the
spirited shipowner, then formed, in conjunction with the late Mr.
G. H. Fletcher, the Oceanic Steam Navigation Company, Limited;
and we were commissioned by them to build six large Transatlantic
steamers, capable of carrying a heavy cargo of goods, as well as
a full complement of cabin and steerage passengers, between
Liverpool and New York, at a speed equal, if not superior, to
that of the Cunard and Inman lines. The vessels were to be
longer than any we had yet constructed, being 420 feet keel and
41 feet beam, with 32 feet hold.
This was a great opportunity, and we eagerly embraced it. The
works were now up to the mark in point of extent and appliances.
The men in our employment were mostly of our own training: the
foremen had been promoted from the ranks; the manager, Mr. W. H.
Wilson, and the head draughtsman, Mr. W. J. Pirrie (since become
partners), having, as pupils, worked up through all the
departments, and ultimately won their honourable and responsible
positions by dint of merit only--by character, perseverance, and
ability.
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