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HMS HOOD in Sydney Harbour
HMS HOOD in Sydney Harbour

HMS HOOD in Sydney Harbour

Photographer
Date1924
Object number00046577
NamePostcard
MediumPhotograph on card
DimensionsOverall: 149 x 115 x 1 mm
ClassificationsPosters and postcards
Credit LineANMM Collection Gift from Macksville and District History Group
DescriptionThis photographic postcard shows HMS HOOD in Sydney Harbour. Taken from water level, this photo shows HOOD from bow view with boats on either side.HistoryDuring 1923-1924 the British ship HMS HOOD was flagship of the Special Service Squadron, a world tour that stopped at many countries who fought and held allegiance with Britain in World War I. The tour started on 27 November 1923 and lasted until 28 September 1924. The public relations exercise was an attempt to express Britain's world sea power, particularly relevant in the aftermath of World War I. HMS HOOD was launched in 1920 and prior to the outbreak of World War II was considered to be the most powerful and significant ship of the Royal Navy. A highlight in HOOD's career was its role as flagship in the Royal Navy's world tour in 1923-1924. HOOD, HMS REPULSE and six light cruisers made up the Special Service Squadron which visited many countries including Australia and the United States. HOOD was sunk on 24 May 1941 after taking German gunfire from the BISMARCK during the Battle of Denmark Strait. The ship went down with 1415 crew on board, in what became one of the greatest maritime tragedies of the Royal Navy. In 2001 the wreck of both the BISMARCK and HOOD were located by David Mearns.SignificanceThis postcard is an example of the excitement aroused by the Special Service Squadron's tour visit in 1924. Nationalistic pride dominated public life, as the tour embraced the countries who allied with Britain during World War I.