Midship Collection

Longitudinal section of the Great Eastern Steam Ship designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel. To be launched on 3 November 1857 but there was major logistical issues. Date: 1857

Detail of the El Rey D Jayme II (engraving)
1609438 Detail of the El Rey D Jayme II (engraving) by English School, (19th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: Detail of the El Rey D Jayme II)

Plan and cross sections of the Great Eastern steamship
ILN198859 Plan and cross sections of the Great Eastern steamship, 1857 (engraving) (b/w photo) by English School, (19th century); The Illustrated London News Picture Library, London, UK; English

Skeleton Ship
circa 1911: The inner bottom and midship framing of the Cunard liner Aquitania during construction at John Brown and Companys Clydebank Yard

Scottish Shipbuilding
An inspection of the midship framing forming the hull of the Cunard luxury liner Aquitania, under construction at the Clydebank shipyard owned by John Brown & Company

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"1857: The Midship, a marvel of Victorian engineering designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel for Harland & Wolff, faced unprecedented challenges during its construction. The Longitudinal section of the Great Eastern Steam Ship, later known as the "Skeleton Ship," is depicted in this detailed engraving of El Rey D. Jayme II. Despite initial setbacks, including major logistical issues that delayed its launch until 3 November 1857, the Midship's innovative design revolutionized shipbuilding. With its advanced iron hull and ability to carry over 4,000 passengers, it set the stage for the future of transatlantic travel. Explore more of the Midship's history and Harland & Wolff's collection at the National Museums NI.