Description
Footnote
Literature: A.S Davidson, Marine Art and the Clyde, Liverpool, 2001, pg. 146.
Note: The 1,322 ton iron built screw steamer 'Columbia' was launched in 1866; she was 2,833 feet in length, 33.6 feet beam, and 29.4 feet depth of hold. She was in the service of the Anchor Line (Handyside and Henderson) of Glasgow and until 1894 she was used mainly for carrying immigrants to and from the United States; the present picture where she is wearing the USA flag at the foremast, probably shows such a scene at Greenock. In the background can be seen not only the factory chimney skyline of the town, but the custom house, a distant view of Ardgowan House and Well Park Church. The 'Columbia' was also used for trade to India until she was sold in 1894 to an Italian Company, when her name was changed to 'Francesco Crispi'. Her greatest moment during her employment by the Anchor Line came when in January 18 1, while on a trip between London and Boston, she rescued the 'Batavia' of the Cunard Line, who had got into difficulties, and towed her on a 560 mile journey to the Azores.