The Equator
On January 6 1907 the Great White Fleet steamed across the Equator and “Crossing the Line" ceremonies made up the plan of action for the day. Some 12,000 sailors were introduced to Davy Jones. Following proper procedure and initiation rights that included suffering various indignities to make them worthy all were welcomed into the exhaulted realm of King Neptune.
A picture on USS Wisconsin. The Royal Party of the ship's "Crossing the Line" ceremonies, during the cruise around the world, 1908
The next instalment will cover of the relevance of the HMS Dreadnought for all things naval in the pre 1918 era.
Regards
Sean
