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Mersey Class (1887) CC

The four ships of the Mersey Class were 2nd Class, Protected Cruisers.

They were part of the 1883 construction programme, and similar to the Leander Class (1885), However they had full length deck armour, and higher bulwarks which improved dryness amidships. They were the first cruisers designed without a sailing rig.

They were considered successful, being good seaboats and steady gun platforms. But development of quick-firing guns soon made them obsolescent.  Only Severn saw much use as a cruiser.

After some years in Reserve, Forth and Thames survived the infamous 1905 mass axing and gave good service as depot ships.   

 

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This page last edited - 20 February, 2013.

Copyright © Ian M King, except where otherwise indicated.