New finds and related archives – Elder Dempster
Read more about new finds for the Elder Dempster Lines - the largest UK shipping group between Western Europe and West Africa from the late-nineteenth century to the 1980s.
Read more about new finds for the Elder Dempster Lines - the largest UK shipping group between Western Europe and West Africa from the late-nineteenth century to the 1980s.
John Martin was a catering officer with Elder Dempster Lines. Read his account of his experiences with the shipping company.
John Goble was the Chief Officer for Elder Dempster Lines. John joined Elder Dempsters in 1963 as Third Mate. In his interview, John discusses the challenges of working at sea, his first impressions on West Africa and how the impact containerisation had on the industry.
Derek Bailey joined Elder Dempster Lines in 1957. In his interview, Derek recalls what it was like living on a ship with a wife and children at home. Derek also speaks about Elder Dempster Lines’ latter years.
Barry Groombridge joined Elder Dempster Lines aged 16. Barry’s first voyage was from London to the United States, via West Africa. The voyage lasted nine months. Listen to Barry’s interview to hear about the Christmas he spent with nuns in Madeira and what life was like as a purser at Elder Dempster Lines.
Ray joined Elder Dempster Lines when he was just 16. Ray worked in Hamburg, before returning to Liverpool to marry. Listen to Ray's interview.
Olu Olaseinde was a passenger on the Elder Dempster lines. Read his story.
Jean was a Secretary for Elder Dempster Lines. Listen to Jean's interview.
Alan Wigelsworth began working for Elder Dempster Lines aged 15. Alan joined the company as office boy. Listen to Alan's interview.
Steve New began working for Elder Dempsters in 1962 as an Indentured Deck Officer Apprentice. In his interview, Steve talks about those early days in the engine room, the dangers of cleaning wheelhouse windows and about why Steve joined the Merchant Navy.