The Rocket Brigade

Description

Alternative NameTimaru Volunteer Rocket BrigadeDescriptionThe Timaru Volunteer Rocket Brigade was formed in 1877 to operate life saving rocket equipment used to rescue crew and passengers from ships in distress. The brigade would fire a line over the ship. The line had a heavier rope with a tail-block and pulley attached. This was secured to the ship and a breeches buoy could then haul the crew to the safety of the shore.
Although the rocket equipment was not used during the infamous Benvenue and City of Perth shipwreck, brigade members were involved in the rescue. Two members, Captain Alexander Mills and William Mclaren both perished when several boats attempting to aid in the rescue capsized.

The Timaru District Libraries has lending copies of the book 'The lifesaving rockets of Timaru' by D J Batchelor available for more detailed information on the history of the brigade and the equipment used.External LinkTimaru District Libraries catalogue: 'The lifesaving rockets of Timaru' by D J Batchelor.TypeEmergency ServiceDate1877Geo AddressTimaru, New ZealandSubjectShipwrecksDisasters

The Timaru Rocket Brigade posed as if practicing on the rocks below the cliffs on Caroline Bay, circa 1883.
Image courtesy of the South Canterbury Museum, item 0847. Please contact the museum for more information.

Connections

PersonCaptain Alexander MillsPlaceTimaruTimaru PortLanding Service BuildingEventThe Ben Venue and City of Perth shipwreck

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