Listed here some of the more common enquiries that we receive. The list will grow over time and we also plan to create a range of information sheets on popular topics.

Can I browse the archives to find what I'm looking for?
At present, the archives aren't available for viewing by researchers as the material is being catalogued and no public research facilities are available. However, full access is available by contacting the Collections Manager who will be pleased to search the database to see whether there is material to help you with your research.

How many items are in the collection?

There are over 20,000 objects in the collection and to date over 15,000 of these have been fully catalogued onto a computer database with an ongoing project to ensure that all items are fully catalogued by 2009.

How can I get a copy of an image from the archives?

If there is an image that you particularly like, you can order a photographic print from us (depending on copyright restrictions). We also provide a photocopying service for suitable material.

My ancestor worked aboard a paddle steamer. Will you have his records?

We don't hold employee records, but there is a vast collection of material such as photographs, ephemera and company records that should tell you something about your ancestor and the ship that they worked on.

Where can I find material on P&A Campbell employees to help with my family history research?

The best place to do this is through the Registry of Shipping and Seamen in Cardiff. This can be accessed at www.mcga.gov.uk . There are also P&A Campbell records in the Bristol Records Office. These mainly relate to the names of masters and sometimes mates entered in memorandum books and log books.

Where can I find material on General Steam Navigation Company employees to help with my family history research?

The best place to do this is at the National Maritime Museum at Greenwich.

Can I see any of the collection on public display?

Yes, many of the larger most important items are on display in museums around the UK. To view a list of these click here.

Does the Collection cover the whole of the UK?

Yes, the PSPS Collection covers the whole of the UK although certain areas such as the Thames, Bristol Channel and South coast are the most popular areas. We have limited material on Scotland. There is also a collection of material showing paddle steamers worldwide.

How do I contact you if I want to undertake research?

Just contact the Collections Manager by email at andrew.gladwell@fsmail.net or write to; PSPS Collection, 31 Meadow Road, Gravesend, Kent, DA11 7LR. We are unable to undertake phone enquiries. Please allow 28 days for a reply to your enquiry.

Do you have records that would help me with a local history enquiry?

Yes, the collection has a great deal of material that shows paddle steamers at various places around the UK. The material contains a wealth of information on local places and people. Photographs are particularly good and there are over 8,000 in the collection.

How can I find out about the heritage of Waverley, Balmoral or Kingswear Castle?

You can access the heritage of these three ships by clicking on the images of each ship on the home page of this website. You will find a brief history of each steamer, key dates, techncal details as well as a growing photograph gallery and gallery showing material that we have in the PSPS Collection. You will also find a link so that you can book a cruise on one of these wonderful steamers!

I want to build or buy a model of Waverley - how can I do this?

General Arrangement plans for the Waverley are available in the ship's Souvenir Shop or from Waverley Excursions in Glasgow. Small resin models are also available in the shop. Otherwise contact; Clyde Steamer Models, 03, 8 Quarrier Street, Greenock, PA15 2HF. TELEPHONE 01475 720514.

Are there any plans to open a paddle steamer museum?

It is hoped that when the collection is fully catalogued and when suitable premises are found, that a permanent study centre can be created. In the meantime, the collection is fully accessible through this website and through material on display in museums around the UK.

Do you have a list of books on the heritage of paddle steamers?

A number of pleasure steamers books are listed under publications. The PSPS Collection also holds a fine library of over 300 paddle steamer books.

Do you have any film of paddle steamers?

Yes, a number of DVDs are available that explore the heritage of paddle steamers. These can be found in the publications area of the website.

Does the collection only contain material on paddle steamers?

No, the collection contains material on pleasure steamers and other cruising vessels such as ferries in line with its Collecting Policy.

How can I donate material to the collection?

You can help us to achieve our aim by donating material to the collection. To do this, click here.

I would like to obtain plans of a particular paddle steamer. Where could I obtain these?

The best place would be the National Maritime Museum as they hold a significant collection of ships plans in their collection. The PSPS Collection also holds a modest number of plans.

Where can I obtain film of an old paddle steamer?

The Society's film unit has produced a range of DVDs and videos showing old film of paddle steamers. Otherwise the British Pathe website has a huge number of fascinating films searchable on its excellent website. All you need to do is to tap in the name of the steamer or place and results will be instant. You can then view the film or purchase copies of it.

Where can I find the archives of ship builders and steamer operators?

The National Archives have a searchable database that will direct you to any archives that may exist on a specific company.