A new series outlining the development of specific ship types, based upon the huge plans collection at the National Maritime Museum, Greenwich.
This volume deals with the introduction of steam power into naval warfare in the form of paddle propulsion. The progress of naval architecture from sailing ships, with minimal alteration to accommodate engines, towards purpose designed steamships, and their influence on the introduction of iron hulls, makes this period particularly important. The historical significance of these early steamers cannot be over-emphasised.

Paddle warships is divided into two halves:

Part I is a design history and charts the progress of naval steam through individual ships and classes, and sets out the essential details of the ships in numerous tables.

Part II deals with such general aspects of the ships as hull structure, machinery, paddle wheels, armament, internal arrangements and performance.

Many of the first paddlers were experimental trials platforms rather than true warships, but their inclusion is essential in order to tell a complete story. For the same reason, the Post Office packets, which represent a crucially important stage in naval development, are also included.

Author: D.K. Brown

128 pages
275 x 275 mm
Hardback

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