Collage showing museum exhibits and students gathered to watch a presentation

Marine students explore local maritime history

Published: 12th January 2023

Published by City College Southampton

Sailing into 18th Century maritime history

Back in December, our Marine students from across all levels had the chance to explore the maritime history of Buckler’s Hard and to experience what life was like for 18th-century shipbuilders.

After exploring the local maritime history including the role Beaulieu played in supporting the Battle of Trafalgar (1805) and during WWII, Level 2 marine student Tobias shared that “the living conditions were shocking, and people lacked the basic luxuries we take for granted now like bread, sugar and a comfy chair. It was interesting to see how locally we played a big part in history.”

Many of the students were shocked by the lack of health and safety, working conditions and the heavy lifting elements that many people faced. They were also surprised to find that a shipbuilder’s position in society had an impact on life expectancy, the master builder, for instance, lived to the age of 92, whilst the average age for a general tradesman was 32-34 years old.

From a practical side, students loved learning about how their trade has developed over the years and many were excited to see that a lot of traditional tools that were used are identical to modern boatbuilding tools that are still used today.

Thanks to Jamie and the Marine team for facilitating this fantastic historical experience.

 Waxwork model dressed in period clothing chops wood