Shire Line
1905 When the Russo-Japanese War ended, the resultant over-capacity in shipping led to some consolidations including the link up in 1906 of David Jenkins and Co with Thomas and John Brocklebank as the Shire Line.
The basis of the joint-venture was that Brocklebank and Jenkins both placed five ships in the Shire Line pool. Each company manned and managed its own ships and shared the financial result of their trading.
1907 The Royal Mail Steam Packet Co bought the Jenkins business and the Shire Line of Steamers Ltd was formed, with the ships repainted in Royal Mail colours.
1911 Royal Mail bought the Brocklebank share of the company but the Brocklebank ships were quickly replaced, some with transfers from the Royal Mail SP Company. These and the new-build ships were a considerable improvement on the existing ships engaged in the service. Some had provision for the carriage of steerage class passengers.
1920 Acquired Glen Line; a joint service was operated as Glen and Shire
See Also
Sources of Information
- [1] Shipsnostalgia