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Model of the first purpose-built lifeboat, the Original
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Model of the first purpose-built lifeboat, the Original
Model of the first purpose-built lifeboat, the Original, built by Henry Francis Greathead of South Shields in 1789.
South ShieldOs private Law House committee endeavoured to find an inventor who could design and build a lifeboat prompted by an earlier tragedy at the mouth of the River Tyne.
They launched a lifeboat design competition and offered a reward of 2 guineas for the best design.
Among the entrants were Parish Clerk William Wouldhave and Boatbuilder Henry Francis Greathead, both from South Shields.
Neither design was an outright winner. Instead the committee took ideas from both to produce a final lifeboat design.
William Wouldhave was offered half the prize money as a reward for his efforts, which he took offence to and rejected.
Henry Greathead was asked to build the lifeboat from the final design and went on to become known as the inventor of the lifeboat.
taken: March 1974
Staff
Western Mail
Mirrorpix
South Shields
Tyne and Wear
England
Media ID 21917912
© Mirrorpix
1974 Charities Crew Emergency Services Historic Lifeboat Lifeboats Organisations Rescue Rnli Ship
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This print showcases the model of the first purpose-built lifeboat, known as "The Original" constructed by Henry Francis Greathead in 1789. The creation of this remarkable vessel was prompted by a tragic incident at the mouth of the River Tyne, which led South Shield's private Law House committee to seek an inventor capable of designing and constructing a life-saving boat. To encourage innovation, a competition was launched with a reward of 2 guineas for the best design. Amongst the participants were Parish Clerk William Wouldhave and Boatbuilder Henry Francis Greathead, both hailing from South Shields. Although neither design emerged as an outright winner, elements from both were combined to produce the final lifeboat blueprint. William Wouldhave received half of the prize money as recognition for his contributions; however, he took offense and declined it. On the other hand, Henry Greathead was entrusted with building this groundbreaking lifeboat based on their collaborative design. Consequently, he became renowned as its inventor. Captured in March 1974 by Memory Lane Prints' staff photographer, this image not only portrays historical significance but also symbolizes transportation advancements and emergency services dedicated to saving lives at sea. It serves as a reminder of how charitable organizations like RNLI play an essential role in supporting rescue missions carried out by brave crews aboard these iconic vessels.
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