TALISMAN (1935b, Caledonian SP)

1980 postcard by Pamlin Prints, no. SM683(S), 

not posted, 

5.5" x 3.5", 140mm x 90mm (approx)

our ref: SRM833

pictured at Millport 1.8.1961

TALISMAN (Caledonian Steam Packet)

Diesel-electric paddle vessel built in 1935 by A&J Inglis, Pointhouse, as Talisman for the LNER, operating on the Clyde. Requisitioned by the Admiralty in 1940 as an anti-aircraft vessel and renamed HMS Aristocrat. 6/1944 she served at Arromanches as headquarters ship for the construction of the Mulberry Harbours. In 1945 she served as a ferry for naval personnel between Chatham and Harwich. Returned to her owners, and original name, in 1946 and returned to service within a few months. On nationalisation in 1948 her owners were absorbed by the British Transport Commission and she was then operated by the Caledonian Steam Packet. Withdrawn at the end of 1966 and broken up at Dalmuir in 1967/8.