Lifebelt or life buoy from Isle of Man Steam Packet Company vessel 'Ellan Vannin'

Date made: early 20th century

Description: This lifebelt was carried aboard the ill-fated Manx steamer 'Ellan Vannin'. It was the only artefact salvaged from the loss of the vessel in 1909. It was found floating in the water by a Liverpool tugboat the morning after the disaster.

The lifebelt is made of cork or similar material covered with canvas. It has been painted white and the words 'Ellan Vannin' and 'Douglas' applied in black and gold.

The loss of the 'Ellan Vannin' with all passengers and crew in 1909 was a shocking event, and it is still remembered with sadness on the Island today. The vessel set sail for Liverpool in a worsening storm. It is believed that approaching the Mersey Bar she was swamped by a heavy sea and went down. The name 'Ellan Vannin' was never used again by the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company.

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Measurements: overall: 12 cm x 74 cm

Materials: fibre:vegetable, paint:oil, wood: other

Object name: lifebelt

Collection: Social History Collection

ID Number: 1954-3330

Subject tags : #MM100

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