Bell from the Royal Eagle, 1932

The paddle steamer Royal Eagle was one of the favourite Thames steamers of the 1930s. But, in common with most other paddle and pleasure steamers, very few objects survive to remind us of these much loved vessels. The Royal Eagle was finally scrapped in 1953 and nobody knew about the fate of objects such as the bell. By chance, in 2007, the bell was donated to the Society some 54 years later!

It is interesting to ponder where this bell had been for the intervening period. Do you know whether any other items have survived from the Royal Eagle? The Collection would always be pleased to hear if you would like to donate any such material to its collection to ensure that this important material survives for future generations to enjoy.