Visit of His Majesty’s Special Service Squadron to Western Australia
Printer
Government Printer
Date1924
Object number00003917
NameBooklet
MediumInk on paper
DimensionsOverall: 1 x 253 x 190 mm, 100 g
ClassificationsEphemera
Credit LineANMM Collection
DescriptionSouvenir booklet commemorating the 'Visit of His Majesty’s Special Service Squadron to Western Australia' from 27 February to 6 March 1924.
The front cover cover features a coloured illustration of a British warship, probably representing the flagship of the squadron. The cruisers making up the Squadron are listed on the edges - HMS HOOD, HMS REPULSE, HMS DEHLI, HMS DANAE, HMS DUNEDIN, HMS DRAGON, HMS DAUNTLESS. At 32 pages the booklet contains a programme of events and information on Perth and Western Australia and a tentative program for the Squadron’s visit to Albany.HistoryFrom 27 November 1923 to 28 September 1924, the British Royal Navy’s Special Service Squadron cruised around the world visiting and thanking those countries and allies who had offered their support during World War I. It was an opportunity to show naval strength and renew alliances.
Each stop was greeted with enthusiasm as evidenced by this souvenir booklet of the Squadron’s visit to Western Australia from 27 February to 6 March. The fleet berthed at Fremantle and Albany and were transported to Perth and other locations for visits and activities.SignificanceThe Special Service Squadron stopped at eight Australian ports during February, March and April 1924 during its World Cruise. Booklets detailing the day’s events and the region’s history were produced as mementoes for those who attended. The days were organised to show the officers and sailors a slice of Australian life and to offer thanks for alliances and comradeship.
c 1924
