Ahoy Shipmates

It was 23 December 1907 and the Great White Fleet had reached its first scheduled stop - Port of Spain, Trinidad.

At a gentle eleven knots in a single file the Fleet approached the island of Trinidad via the Gulf of Paria.

With delicate and precise seamanship the mighty Fleet smoothly glided into the anchorage dropping their sixteen anchors simultaneously - the sound echoing around the port.

There was no local reception however the crews expected a fanfare the next day.

The next morning the sun came up and the crews looked out to the shore expectantly however they were deeply surprised and no doubt disappointed to find things ashore looked like business as usual and as if the fleet had never arrived.

The Fleets first port visit was met without cheering crowds, bands or groups of dignitaries. Unfortunately the British Governor had direct instructions to officially ignore the visit. Therefore all official balls and parties planned for the Christmas period were cancelled and no official party was organized to meet the Fleet.

Despite this state of affairs Admiral Evans put the Fleets "best foot" forward and planned activities and liberty whilst in port.

The next instalment will describe the fleets activities whilst visiting this port.

As you may or may not be aware down here in New Zealand we are a day ahead so as I write this it is Christmas Eve.

I would like to take this opportunity to wish all my modelling shipmates and their families spread throughout the world seasons greetings.

Please have a safe, and enjoyable festive season.

Regards

Sean

Same to you and your Family, Sean!
From an ice cold Lisbon,
Skipper

Once again, excellent job Alan! I read that my beloved Louisiana was with the fleet on this amazing trip.

Kenny