SS SOROTA & SS JOHN ELDER: Quarter Deck: Saloon

Images(3)

SS SOROTA & SS JOHN ELDER: Quarter Deck: Saloon

Maker Orient Line (1878 - 1966)

Datec 1882

Object number00006985

NameLithograph

MediumLithograph on paper

DimensionsOverall: 362 x 275 mm

ClassificationsEphemera

Credit LineANMM Collection

Terms

DescriptionTwo lithographs on the one sheet. The title above both images reads 'SS SORATA & SS JOHN ELDER', both ships were operated by Orient Line. The top image is titled 'Quarter deck' and the bottom image is titled 'Saloon'. The inscription beneath the image of the saloon reads 'The deck and saloon plans of the following steamers are similiar to the above, SS CHIMBORAZO, SS GARONE, SS CUZCO, SS LUSITANIA'.HistoryThe Orient Line to Australia was created in 1878 and managed by Anderson, Anderson & Co. and Frederick Green & Co. for the UK to Australia trade. It was in competition with the P & O Line who had dominated the route and also held the Australian mail contract. In 1883 a partial mail contract was awarded to the Orient Line by New South Wales and again in 1888 when it was awarded equal mail rights with P & O. To begin its operations, the Orient Line used four liners from the Pacific Steam Navigation Co. - these were the SS CHIMBORAZO, SS GARONE, SS CUZCO, and SS LUSITANIA and built in 1871. After 1888 and the sharing of the mail contract, Orient Line and P & O also coordinated sailing times to provide more frequent and regular services to and from Australia. Seasonal demands and restrictions however encouraged the Orient Line to look elsewhere to pick the slack in quieter periods and they became innovators in the 'cruising for pleasure' market in the northern hemisphere. SignificanceThe Orient Line played a major role in the transport of immigrants to Australia during the late 19th Century. Later when the promotion of the pleasures of sea travel became important - such as food, electricity and other on-board comforts, The Orient Line was at the forefront of this new holidaying frontier.