Manuscript testimonial from the passengers of the SS CHIMBORAZO to Captain Ruthven

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Manuscript testimonial from the passengers of the SS CHIMBORAZO to Captain Ruthven

Date1881

Object numberANMS0263[004]

NameTestimonial

MediumPaper

DimensionsDisplay dimensions: 380 x 245 mm

ClassificationsEphemera

Credit LineANMM Collection

Terms

testimonials

DescriptionA handwritten testimonial / letter of thanks from the passengers of SS CHIMBORAZO to Captain Ruthven dated 1 October 1881. The letter thanks the Captain for his "kindness and consideration" throughout the voyage and in being so responsible and capable in the management of the ship. HistoryTestimonials extolling the seamanship, good manners, courage and confidence in the choice of Captain and ship were often prepared by passengers coming to Australia. After a lengthy sea voyage it was also not uncommon for some passengers to disagree with the running of the vessel or the personality of the Captain. Captain Ruthven however, was generally well liked and when he retired in 1911 it was noted in the papers of the day that he had been "one of the most popular commanders who have ever sailed to the Australian seas". (The Advertiser, 11 March, 1911). The CHIMBORAZO was an iron, auxiliary screw steamer that made at least two voyages a year to Australia between August 1877 and 1891 for the Orient Steam Navigation Line before being sold out of service in 1894 the vessel was placed on the northern hemisphere cruise circuit .SignificanceTestimonials and letters from passengers highlight the issues that passengers faced on long sea journeys and what aspects of the trip were important to them. The captain was seen to be responsible for everything from the quality of the food served to staff behaviour on board.