SS BORDA Bell
Date1950 - 1951
Object number00007895
NameShip's bell
MediumMetal, paint
DimensionsOverall: 345 x 335 x 335 mm, 28 kg
ClassificationsVessels and fittings
Credit LineANMM Collection
DescriptionThis metal bell came from the SS BORDA. Built by Evans, Deakin of Brisbane. 4103 tonnes, length 123m, BORDA serviced the interstate general cargo routes for the Adelaide Steamship Company.HistoryThe Adelaide Steamship Company was founded in 1857 when a group of businessmen saw the opportunity to capitalise on the Adelaide to Melbourne shipping route. Two ships were ordered from England and the company soon established itself on the coastal shipping scene. Over time, the Adelaide Steamship Company extended its routes around Australia, bought out other companies, expanded its fleet and eventually became one of Australia's most powerful and enduring shipping concerns.
The Adelaide Steamship Company sold its shipping interests in 1977 but continued to operate tug services in ports around Australia. The Company now known as Adsteam, expanded and diversified, with large holdings in important Australian and overseas companies. But eventually, because of opposition to its cross-holdings, it was forced to divest itself of all assets except its tugs.SignificanceShips bells have an iconic almost spiritual association with ships and the sea. They were the voice of the ship; used to record time; and to call the crew to action and sailing stations.
