Mystery of a visit from the Victory

The visit took place in the late 1930s.

Captain Ted Weller of the harbour tug Richmere took many pictures of the craft in harbour, he having the ability to get closer to the boats, being afloat himself. The crew appeared to be dressed in clothing of the period.

Whether the model had an engine installed I have no knowledge. One would imagine that would be rather frowned upon by the purists.

I have a photo of this remarkable boat at a Royal Naval review, where she poses near the bow of HMS Nelson. Needless to say, the contrast in size is considerable!

Purely guessing, it could probably be that the model was made for that occasion and then afterwards toured the harbours and seaside resorts as an attraction.

The figure partly visible on the left of the picture is, I would think, a nautical admirer standing on the East Pier, with clenched fists on the hand rail, and enjoying the graceful departure of the dwarfed Victory.

The difference in the piling of the West Pier, to the right, indicates where the concrete steps go down, still to this day.

This was concerned with the activities of the harbour pilots, who kept their small sailing boats in the area, when they used to operate from their little concrete watch houses, just visible above the stern of the departing visitor.

The 12ft x 8ft storehouse, situated at the rear, was the first museum of our historical society. Many happy memories, for despite its small size, it was always very popular, and let's face it, there was no competition!

Two mounds of the Lunet Battery are visible. This harbour defence replaced the first battery at the fort site, before the real development commenced producing the wonderful visitor attraction we experience today.

Still to the right a building is seen; this was known as the Black House.

Tarred many times over the ages, it was mainly wooden,

There was a bay window facing to the south. Beneath this was an opening area which was a kind of shop, where sweets and ice creams could be bought in summer time.

One always felt there must have been a boat kept in there at some time. This is supported by the knowledge that at one time it had been involved with the coastal watch.

Extreme right is part of the Sea House, at one time a public house, separated from the Hope Inn by two small one up and one down cottages. These were later absorbed into the Hope when extensive improvements were made in the early 1930s, reminding me of the Newhaven family who went for a day in Brighton.

They indulged in a motor charabanc mystery tour from the Palace Pier, only to finish up at the Hope Inn as the place of mystery '“ at least they were home!

PETER BAILEY

Peter Bailey is curator of the Newhaven Local and Maritime Museum based in its own fascinating premises in the grounds of Paradise Park in Avis Road, Newhaven. Winter opening hours are Saturdays and Sundays, 2-5pm or by arrangement. Admission 1 (accompanied children free). Contact the curator on 01273 514760. Log on to the website at www.newhavenmuseum.co.uk