The SS Great Western launched in 1838 as the first steamship built for the trans-Atlantic service, the largest passenger ship in the world, and set a speed record on its first voyage from England to New York. It was surpassed in size by the 1839 launch of the SS British Queen. Offered here are two pieces relating to the two massive steamers:
Austin Phillips and "Mr. Wilson." "Farewell Awhile My Native Isle." 6 printed pages, 12½ x 9¾ inches, on 4 disbound leaves including an illustrated title page; minimal wear. Sheet music composed aboard the Great Western's maiden voyage, with "a copy launched overboard for behoof of all lovers of Song." Illustrated with a Currier lithograph of the ship by W.K. Hewitt. New York: Hewitt & Jaques, circa 1838.
Fairland, lithographer; after W.J. Leatham. "The British Queen Steam Ship, on her passage from New York to London, Lying in a Heavy Gale." Hand-colored lithograph, 17½ x 21¾ inches; minor foxing, 2 skillfully repaired short tears. London: I.W. Laird, 1841.
