There can be few steamers that are so completely associated with an individual owner as Captain William Buchanan’s Eagle of 1864. The ship was the second of the name with Buchanan associations. The first Eagle, built in 1852 by Messrs Denny at Dumbarton for the Glasgow and Rothesay service they had inherited from the Messrs Burns when they disposed of their Clyde fleet, was purchased the following year by Messrs Alexander Williamson, William Buchanan and John Cook. Captain Buchanan thus had his first command of a river steamer. The partnership broke up in 1862 when Captain Buchanan, John Cook and James Davie purchased the steamer and the following year sold her as a blockade runner, earning a considerable premium on the sale that allowed them to order a new vessel.
The new vessel, larger and more powerful than the first, was launched in April 1860, and through the following weeks, her progress to completion was followed with interest.
“Launch of the Eagle.—This beautiful paddle steamer, built for our river passenger traffic, was yesterday launched from the west shipbuilding yard of Messrs Chas. Connell & Co., Overnewton. She is owned by Captain Buchanan, who intends running her on the Rothesay station, after receiving her engines, which are being fitted by Messrs. D. & W. Henderson, of the Steamship Works.”—Glasgow Herald, April 20, 1864
Trials were held at the end of May and after some adjustments, she entered service in June
“New Steamers.—On Saturday morning the new river steamer Eagle, launched last month by Messrs Connell & Co., for Captain Buchanan, the well known master and owner the old Eagle, sold for blockade running, was down on a trial. She, is a handsome craft and sails well, and will take the Rothesay station immediately.”—Glasgow Morning Journal, May 30, 1864
“River steamer Eagle.—This fine new steamer commenced plying on the Rothesay ,station on Saturday afternoon. She left the Bridge Wharf a few minutes after four o’clock, and notwithstanding the number of times the engines were slowed in the river, Greenock was reached in one hour and 31 minutes—a swift run for a first trip—and the speed, we are informed, will be improved forthwith. The Eagle, which is under the able command of her owner, Captain William Buchanan, has been elegantly fitted up, and every modern improvement introduced for the comfort of passengers. In this respect the Eagle is certainly not excelled by any steamer on the river. Her spacious saloon is decorated in a neat and chaste manner, and passengers who are musically inclined can enjoy themselves at a fine-toned piano, with which the cabin is furnished. Altogether great taste has been displayed in fitting up the Eagle, and there is little doubt that she will prove a favourite on the Rothesay route, with which her owner has been so long connected.”—Glasgow Herald, June 6, 1864
The new Eagle at the Broomielaw with Campbell’s Vesta at her bow (Beckett)
Despite the best efforts of the builders and owners, news reports of the Eagle’s performance hinted at something less than anticipated. Indeed, her double diagonal engines were too powerful for her hull. In design, the Eagle had a raised quarterdeck that provided headroom for the saloon below. Despite the presence of a piano, it would appear that the furnishings also left something to desire.
“Rothesay—Glasgow and Rothesay steamers.—We never despaired of a sufficient supply, when the season arrived, of swift first-class steamers for the accommodation of the annually increasing crowds of respectable visitors to our lovely and healthful island. Our spirited and enterprising townsman, Captain Buchanan, has just placed upon the Rothesay station a most tastefully fitted and well appointed new steamer, named the Eagle, which commenced plying on this station on Monday last. Her spacious saloon, of 60 feet in length, is elegantly, although not gaudily furnished, and it will, along with the upper deck and ample space before the funnels, accommodate a very large number of passengers.”—Glasgow Herald, June 9, 1864
The Eagle took up the Rothesay service, running in consort with Duncan Stewart’s Victory, where both steamers made three daily runs, alternating overnight in Rothesay or Glasgow. The two steamers monopolized the popular 11 a.m. excursion and the 4 p.m. express sailings from the Broomielaw.
Glasgow Herald, June 24, 1864
It was on an 11 a.m. sailing from the Broomielaw that season that the Eagle had its first brush with the River Bailie Court.
“The recent collision between the steamers Eagle and Venus.—At the River Bailie Court, yesterday, before Bailie William Brown, William Buchanan, master of the steamer Eagle, of Glasgow, was charged with culpable and reckless sailing or conduct of his steamer, to the danger of the lieges, “in so far as, on Wednesday the 3d of August, while in command of his vessel when on a voyage with passengers to Glasgow, and when at that part of the river at or near the quay of Gourock, and when the steamer Venus was ahead of the said steamer Eagle, and while both were making for or waiting to make for the quay at which the steamer Petrel was then lying upon the inside berth, it being the well-known rule of the road or of berthing for steamers that the Venus, being ahead of the Eagle, was entitled, in preference to her, to the inside berth when clear, and this berth having been cleared, and Captain M‘Kellar of the Venus having in reliance as he was entitled to rely upon the said William Buchanan obeying the aforesaid rule, he, the said William Buchanan, culpably and recklessly and illegally, and in opposition to the directions of John Sinclair, harbour-master, Gourock, which he was bound to obey, placed his said steamer, or attempted to place her, upon the said inside berth, whereby a collision was caused or occasioned by the said William Buchanan between the steamers Eagle and Venus, and the lives of the passengers on board the same endangered.”—Glasgow Herald, August 20, 1864
Found guilty, Captain Buchanan was fined £1 for this exploit.
Despite the near collapse of the Confederacy at this point in the war, there was a rumour that the Eagle would be taken to run the federal blockade of the southern ports.
“We understand that the fine new steamer Eagle, built for Captain Buchanan, this season, has been sold and will be taken off the station at the beginning of next month. It is said good price was paid for her. It is also rumoured that another new river steamer not yet the station, is likely change hands also. The future trade of these vessels can be easily imagined, although not given”—Glasgow Morning Journal, August 22, 1864
The rumour came to naught and after her winter lay-up, the Eagle appeared the following year in April. By this time, her saloon had been properly finished but the problems of the overpowered engine persisted. Early in the season she sailed from Rothesay at 11 a.m., and the express sailing from Glasgow at 4 p.m. with a train connection at Greenock. For the season, she was paired with the new Arran Castle, maintaining the schedule of the previous year.
“The Steamer Eagle.—This favourite river steamer came out for the first time this season on Saturday afternoon, and took the 4 p.m. run from Glasgow. She had a splendid cargo, considering that it was her first trip. Yesterday she took the eleven o’clock hour from Rothesay. The Eagle has been considerably improved during the few months she has been lying up, and her internal fittings have now been completed. Captain Buchanan has certainly a splendid craft under his command. We question if ever Rothesay, and the various watering places along that route, had such good prospects before them as they have this season, so far as communication with Glasgow is concerned. Although still in the month of April, they have sailings to and from every day. The Mountaineer, Alma, Undine (new), Victory, Vulcan, Sultan, Hero, and Eagle leave Glasgow in the hours from 7 a.m. till 4 p.m., and from Rothesay from 7.20 a.m. till 3.30 p.m. Besides these, the Vesta, Arran Castle, Petrel, Balmoral Castle (now building) and another lately launched, are preparing for the line. On the 15th of May an arrangement will also be made between the owners of the Victory, Eagle, Arran Castle, and others, by which each of these vessels will make three runs daily, instead of one up and one down as at present.”—Glasgow Morning Journal, April 18, 1865
Eagle at the Broomielaw with Williamson’s Sultan (Annan)
The prescribed remedy of the Clyde shipbuilders for handling issues when all else has failed—lengthening the hull—was applied in the winter lay-up, and in 1866, it was a renewed Eagle that appeared in April. Her early season schedule now had her sailing from Rothesay at 10 a.m., returning from Glasgow at 4 p.m. as in the previous year.
“The river steamer Eagle—swift sailing.—Yesterday, the favourite steamer Eagle, Captain Wm. Buchanan, started from the Broomielaw on a trial trip, after having been lengthened 16 feet abaft the paddle boxes, and having received a thorough overhaul. A select party of gentlemen joined the steamer at the Bridge Wharf, and on reaching Greenock the company was augmented by several well-wishers of the owners. The Eagle then started for Garelochhead, accomplishing the distance between Greenock and Roseneath in twelve minutes. On steaming down the loch the sailing capabilities of the vessel were put to the test by running—not “The Lights”—but a measured statute mile, which showed that she had attained a speed of nearly 19 miles an hour. This gratifying result was received with great satisfaction by the gentlemen present, all of whom spoke in high terms of the readiness of the vessel, and the absence of that shakiness which is occasionally felt on board river steamers. After leaving Garelochhead, the Eagle was steered for Lochgoilhead, at which place she lay for haif an hour, thereby enabling the company to enjoy a pleasant walk. Rothesay was the next port fixed upon, and on the way thither the company sat down to an excellent dinner, served up in capital style by Mr. Kelly, the steward. Mr. David M‘Cubbin, accountant, presided, and amongst the gentlemen present from Glasgow were Messrs John Ballardie, Matthew Pettigrew, John Ferguson (of Barclay, Curle & Co.), John Young, Wiiliam Young, John Sneddon, John Nelson, John Donald; Captains Alexander M‘Lean, John Campbell, Reid, and Wilson, &c.; from Greenock, Bailie John Hunter, Captain M‘Neilage, Mr. Gilchrist, station master, Mr. Morrison, &c.; from Rothesay, the Rev. Mr. Macfarlane, Dr. Paterson, and Messrs. Kinloch, M‘Kechnie, Keith, Lawrie &c. After the tables had been cleared, the Chairman proposed the “Queen;” he next gave the healths of the owners of the Eagle, and referred in eulogistic terms to the manner in which the vessel was managed, and to the courtesy and ability of her commander, Captain Buchanan. The toast, which was drunk amid great enthusiasm, was acknowledged by the Captain and Mr. John Cook. Bailie Hunter proposed “Prosperity to the Trade of Rothesay,” coupled with the name of Mr. M‘Kechnie, who replied. Dr. Paterson, Rothesay, proposed “Prosperity to the City of Glasgow,” coupled with the name of Mr. Ballardie, who acknowledged the toast. The Chairman then proposed “The Clergy of Scotland,” coupled with the health of the Rev. Mr. Macfarlane, who briefly replied. After the Rothesay gentlemen were landed, the Eagle steamed to Greenock, accomplishing the distance, exclusive of a stoppage at Dunoon, in one hour. In the forenoon the weather was disagreeable; but, as the day advanced, the clouds cleared off, and the company spent a most delightful day.”—Glasgow Herald, March 31, 1866
The Arran Castle was sold in March, 1866, and was lost that month in the Irish sea. The Eagle paired up with the Athole and the new Rothesay Castle during the season and at the end of the year, Captain Buchanan purchased the latter steamer. With two steamers available, Captain Buchanan could take the 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. sailings from Glasgow with returns from Rothesay at 6.30 a.m. and 10 a.m., although during the busiest part of the season, an additional run by both steamers was squeezed in. The scene was set then for a battle for supremacy on the Rothesay route between Captain Buchanan’s steamers and Captain Duncan Stewart’s Athole, running in consort with the new Dunoon Castle.
“Greenock.—Steamboat Competition.—Reduction of Fares —About a month ago we noticed the opposition between the Eagle and Rothesay Castle against the Athole and Dunoon Castle, the two former steamers belonging to Captain Buchanan and others, making jointly three runs from Glasgow and three runs from Rothesay daily. Captain Stewart of the Athole then placed the fast steamer Undine, of which he is a joint owner, against the Eagle’s best hour (4 p.m. from Glasgow, and reduced the fares at that hour to 6d. cabin or steerage. The opposition was on the next day brought to an end by the cylinder of the Rothesay Castle splitting. An arrangement was come to during the interval of the Rothesay Castle’s repair, and when she came out again on the Glasgow Fair, the Athole which left Glasgow at 11 a.m.. and Rothesay at 4 p.m., changed to 10.50 a.m., and 3.20 p.m., while the Eagle and Rothesay Castle’s hours were altered to 11.30 a.m. and 4.30 p.m., so that instead the Eagle sailing about the same hours as the Athole there was 50 minutes of difference. The Eagle and Rothesay Castle alternately resumed the 6.40 a.m. hour from Rothesay, 5 minutes before the Dunoon Castle, and thus shaved the latter steamer of all the quays. The Dunoon Castle consequently fell back to 7 a.m. on Monday last, and commenced calling at Greenock Quay with passengers for the train at 8.45 a.m. This, however, was encroaching on the Vulcan’s hour of 7.10 a.m. from Rothesay; and the latter steamer being thus interfered with, yesterday commenced to reduce her fares to 6d cabin and 3d steerage on the early run up from Rothesay.”—Glasgow Evening Post, July 27, 1867
A collision at Dunoon between the small steamer Levan and the Eagle while Captain Ronald M‘Taggart was acting master resulted in damage to both steamers, and a number of injuries to passengers on the Levan, one of whom took a shock and subsequently died.
“Steamboat collision near Dunoon Pier.—Yesterday a collision of a somewhat alarming character took place near Dunoon pier, betwixt the river passenger steamers Eagle and Levan, whereby both vessels received considerable damage, although, fortunately, as far as we can learn, no injury to any of the passengers or crews was inflicted. The details, as far as we have been able to gather, are as follow:—The Eagle was proceeding to Rothesay on the afternoon down run, and while approaching Dunoon pier, the steamer Levan, belonging to the Greenock and Helensburgh Steamboat Company, was observed approaching the same pier on the up trip from Rothesay. Before the vessels were stopped a collision ensued, the Levan striking the Eagle on the port side near the foremast, and subsequently stripping about 2 ft. of her bulwarks. Part of her rigging was also carried away, but fortunately the mast remained unbroken. The bow of the Levan was stove in, and other damage of a serious character inflicted. The alarm among the passengers on board both steamers is described as having been very great. Most of the passengers left the Levan, believing she would sink. Both vessels, however, after having had their injuries partially concealed by being covered with tarpaulin, proceeded on their respective trips.”—Glasgow Herald, August 6, 1867
Both Captain M‘Taggart and Captain M‘Lachlan of the Levan were indicted and after a trial where much contradictory evidence was presented, both were found guilty and sentenced to a month’s imprisonment each.
“Glasgow and Rothesay Steamer.—Yesterday the Rothesay Castle, Captain Buchanan, which has during the last two winter months been doing faithful duty for the Vulcan and Sultan steamers (laid up for usual necessary repairs), ceased to ply—the traffic at this season not warranting the expenditure involved by competing morning and evening sailings. The Dunoon Castle will for the present do duty for the three steamers —leaving Rothesay at 7.15 a.m. and Glasgow at 2 p.m. In February the Vulcan will come on, when the Dunoon will retire, and in March the Sultan will take the place of the Vulcan—a friendly and economical arrangement for supplying public wants, without loss to the steamboat owners, which all interested will commend. The new steamers building, here by Messrs. Barclay, Curle, & Co., and in Greenock by Mr. Robertson, for Captain M‘Lean of the Vulcan and Captain Williamson of the Sultan, will be ready in ample time to take their places at the commencement of the ensuing season; so that with these and the favourite Eagle and Rothesay Castle, to say nothing of other steamers and the Wemyss Bay line, the frequenters of the Cowal and Bute shores, and holiday visitors thitherwards, will have little reason to complain of the want of frequent and superior accommodation.”—Glasgow Evening Citizen, January 7, 1868
The season of 1868 saw the Eagle leaving Rothesay at 10a.m. and returning at 4 p.m. from Glasgow, while the Rothesay Castle sailed at 10.55 a.m. from Glasgow, returning from Rothesay at 4.30 p.m.
The following year saw the times change slightly with departures from Glasgow at 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. while those from Rothesay were at 10 a.m. and 4.30 p.m. At the height of the season, there was an additional sailing from both Glasgow and Rothesay on Saturday nights with early morning returns on Mondays. This schedule was maintained until the 1873.
Eagle in 1868 at the Broomielaw with the new Lancelot and ahead of her Dunoon Castle and the white funneled Vesta (Washington Wilson)
A race between the Eagle and the Dunoon Castle for Gourock Pier resulted in a collision.
“Collision between River Steamers.—Last evening, shortly after 5 o’clock, the steamers Dunoon Castle and Eagle were steaming between the Battery Point and Gourock Quay, the Dunoon Castle, which was first was bumped on the stern by the Eagle. A piece of the stern of the Dunoon was carried away.”—Greenock Telegraph, October 6, 1869
“General satisfaction will, we believe, be given the decision at the River Bailie Court yesterday, which distributed the blame equally between the two Captains, in the case of collision between the Eagle and Dunoon Castle steamers off Fort Matilda. It is perfectly plain from the evidence adduced that the prime cause of the accident was the natural rivalry of the two for priority at Gourock quay. Captain Buchanan had room enough and spare to pass his opponent, for he was on the outside and had the breadth of the Frith to come and go upon, but sheering off to starboard would have cost him some minutes and he kept on. Captain M‘Intyre was equally indisposed give way, and whether he “skulled” or not had sufficient room to port to give the faster boat the passage if had chosen, for he passed outside a smack anchored off the Battery and might have gone inside, according to the testimony of David Stewart, In Messrs. Hutcheson’s employment, so that he was not particularly pressed for room in a shoreward direction. But neither of the gallant skippers, in the heat of the contest to be first at Gourock, cared give way to the other, and so the vessels came in contact, to the considerable alarm of their passengers, who would doubtless have preferred a little delay to the experiment of risking a collision. At the same time, it must observed that the captains of steamers in such a position are under a peculiarly strong temptation. They have, in addition to the natural desire of “the old Adam” to be “first,” the stimulus of professional pride to spur them on, conjoined with the necessity of maintaining the prestige which is attached to a crack Clyde steamer and her commander, and which materially contributes to her success on the river. In the case in question the fine was very properly a trifle, the collision being in reality more the nature of an incident than an accident. It is also to be borne in mind that much of the fame of our Clyde steamers is due to that very spirit of competition which aspires to priority in the race, even at the expense of a little occasional jostling. Passengers, however, travel by steamers more frequently for pleasure than for business, and are to a large extent of the tender sex, and possibly afflicted with sensitive nerves. Apart, therefore, from any idea of serious danger—our local steam fleet being the safest in the world—it ought to be impressed on our zealous, if sometimes too fearless captains, that ease of mind and absolute comfort are more essential to pleasant travelling than excessive speed, and that not merely danger, but the appearance of danger, and of everything which can create alarm should scrupulously avoided, even at the expense adding some five or ten minutes to the length of a two or three hours’ voyage.”—Glasgow Evening Citizen, October 16, 1869
Both masters were fined 1 guinea.
Eagle, just arrived from Rothesay with Dunoon Castle and Lancelot at the Broomielaw in 1868 (Washington Wilson)
Despite his visits to court, Captain Buchanan was a popular master, considered one of the best on the Clyde, and his passengers generally recognized this fact at the end of the season.
“Presentation to Captain Buchanan of the Eagle. Yesterday afternoon a large party of gentlemen, coast visitors during the summer season, met on board the Eagle steamer on arrival at Glasgow from Rothesay, and presented Captain Buchanan through Mr William Sim, with a portrait of himself enlarged to life-size from a photograph, set in a handsome frame. The testimonial, Mr Sim stated, was presented in acknowledgment of Captain Buchanan’s skillful manipulation of his ship in all weathers, and of his invariably courteous deportment to his passengers.”—Greenock Telegraph, September 28, 1870
Eagle at Gourock Pier in 1871 (Robertson)
However, the possibility of more serious problems was never far away. In September of the following year, Eagle collided with a yacht, Miranda, as she ventured from Gourock to Kirn. The Miranda sank with the loss of one of the owner’s sons while the other lost an arm. Several passengers on board the steamer were also pulled into the water but all of them were rescued. A doctor on board the Eagle, Dr Alexander Rae, provided initial assistance to the boy. One of the seamen, Daniel Livingstone, later had two fingers amputated at Rothesay. Captain Buchanan and the mate of the Eagle were subsequently arrested and charged with culpable homicide. The owner of the Miranda also raised an action for £5,000 against Captain Buchanan.
“Yacht sunk in the river.—Young man drowned—narrow escapes.—Intelligence has reached us of a sad occurence which took place last night down the river. From the hastily-gathered information received, it appears that the steamer Eagle (Captain Buchanan) which left the Broomielaw at four o’clock, was on her downward trip, and when running across from Gourock to Kirn came into collision with the yacht Miranda, 25 tons, belonging to Mr John Neill, Glasgow. According to a telegram which we have received from a correspondent, there was only one man on the deck of the yacht at the time the occurrence, and it is said that the yacht was allowed to get right across the bow of the steamer, the pilot of which was unaware of the nearness of the smaller craft. The Eagle was struck on the starboard bow, the force of the collision being such that the yacht sank in about two minutes afterwards. The owner of the yacht and his two sons were in the cabin when the occurrence took place. The captain of the Eagle at once lowered a small boat and Mr Neill and one of his sons, as well as the man who was working the yacht, were taken off. Unfortunately, the other young man went down with the yacht. Mr Neill’s son who escaped with his life has sustained serious injuries, one of his arms having been cut off above the elbow. The rescued party afterwards proceeded to Dunoon, where young Mr Neill was attended by Mr Reid and Dr Gemmel.
“The scene on board the Eagle when the collision took place was one of much excitement, which was greatly increased when the sad result of the occurrence became known. Before sinking the yacht heeled over, her masts smashing in the bulwarks of the Eagle, and, as she went down, her spars and rigging dragged several people from the deck of the steamer into the water.
“The imminent peril of those who were thus suddenly immersed naturally heightened the excitement on board; and, unhappily, the engineer, by order of some person unknown, backed the steamer, thus rendering the rescue of those struggling in the water a matter of greater difficulty. At length, however, all were picked up. One of the crew of the Eagle had two of his fingers broken, but none of the passengers were injured. The steamer Undine was about a mile ahead when the collision took place, and the captain at once backed his engines and returned with the view of rendering assistance. The Eagle afterwards proceeded to her destination, reaching Rothesay considerably after time.”—Glasgow Herald, September 2, 1871
“The Eagle and Miranda. —The master and pilot of the Eagle, which ran down the yacht Miranda last Friday night, between Gourock and Kirn, were apprehended and taken to Inveraray, the latter on Tuesday and Captain Buchanan on Wednesday. Bail having been tendered for their appearance when required, they returned on Thursday. Mr Gush, diver, has been busily engaged during the week looking for the yacht, but, as yet, without success. It thought by experienced steamboat masters that the trawling is not being made in the proper place, and is being carried on too far to the northward of the regular course of the steamer from Gourock to Kirn.”—Greenock Advertiser, September 9, 1871
The trial of Captain Buchanan was held at Inveraray the following February.
“The collision between the Eagle and Miranda.—William Buchanan, master of the steamer Eagle, of Glasgow, charged with the crime of culpable homicide, as also culpable violation or neglect of duty, in so far as, on Friday, the 1st September last, panel being master and in command of the steam vessel Eagle, of Glasgow, then on a voyage from Glasgow to Rothesay; and the yacht Miranda, belonging to John Neill, baker, North Albion Street, Glasgow, residing at Lochview. Ashton, Gourock, being on a pleasure trip, and sailing on its course to Ashton Bay, near Gourock, in direction opposite to the course of the Eagle, and having on board the said John Neill, Duncan M‘Donald, seaman, James Neill, son of the said John Neill; and the deceased Wm. Neill, also son of the said John Neill; and there being risk of collision between panel’s steam vessel and the yacht, owing to the directions in which they were respectively sailing, panel did, at a part of the Firth of Clyde, about halfway in a straight line between Gourock and Kirn, and as the vessels were approaching each other, culpably and recklessly, go down to his cabin without leaving any properly qualified person in charge of the steamer, and did fail to keep or cause to kept a good look-out from the steamer, and to keep the steamer or cause it to be kept out of the way of the yacht, and did allow or cause the steamer to be managed and steered in such a manner that it came in violent collision with the yacht, and struck it on the port bow, and sank it, by all which the said John Neill, Duncan M‘Donald, James Neill, and William Neill, were all immersed in the sea; and the said William Neill was drowned, and was thus culpably killed by panel; and James Neill was seriously injured in his person, and had his life put in danger, his right arm being torn from his body, and his head and other parts of his person wounded; and the said John Neill and Duncan M‘Donald were put in danger of their lives. Capt. Buchanan pleaded not guilty, and the case went to trial.
“Duncan M‘Donald was examined through a Gaelic interpreter. He had a seaman for 11 years . He was engaged in August last by Mr Neill as deck hand in the Miranda. Mr Aitken was captain, but left five days after witness came on board. The yacht was under witness’s charge after that. He was steering her on the day she went down. She left Ashton that afternoon with Mr Neill and his two sons board, and sailed over to Holy Loch. They turned back in the direction of Ashton, and Mr Neill’s son was the helm for half an hour after turning; then went down to the cabin, leaving witness steering for Ashton Bay. The wind was from the west, nearly straight behind, and the yacht was on the starboard tack. Witness noticed the Eagle coming from Gourock. She was on the port side. He could not see the steamer at first from where he was standing at the tiller—the mainsail being between him and the steamer. He went forward and looked past the mainsail, to see what was coming. The steamer might be a little more than her own length off when witness saw her. Saw no one on the hurricane deck of the steamer, Went up to the bow and called “Back her!” He was not answered from the steamer, and he saw that she was going to strike the yacht. The yacht was struck on the port side. At the time, Mr Neill and his sons were in the cabin. The yacht sunk about three minutes after being struck. Wm Neill was carried down with the yacht and drowned, and James Neill’s arm was torn out. It was a beautiful clear evening, and they were going about four knots. There was wind enough to get the yacht out of the way of the steamer if there had been a person on the watch to see the steamer. If witness had had assistance on deck he could have got the yacht out of the way of the steamer, even after he saw her. Although he had only had an oar forward he could have done it. Could not say if the yacht changed her course, but if she did, it was after he left the helm to go forward.
“Cross-examined: Witness said he never had the management of a yacht. The Miranda was 25 tons. On a yacht of similar tonnage that the witness was on board there were three hands and a steward. Three hands would do to manage her. Captain Aitken had left on the morning of the accident. Neil’s sons were of some use in the yacht, but very little. The eldest would light fires; he was about 11 years of age, and the other about seven. There was no look-out from the time Neill went down to tea. The yacht ran upon the wind when witness let go the helm, and her bow consequently turned to the south and her port aide was presented to the steamer. If the yacht and the steamer had kept their courses witness was not sure if a collision would have happened. The steamer struck the yacht between the bow and the mast.
“John Neill, owner of the Miranda, deponed that he went out in her on 1st Sept. from Ashton, and went to Lochgoil and Holy Loch. Witness told M‘Donald before he went below to steer for Ashton Bay. Could not say if M‘Donald understood. Witness came up on dock when called out, and was on deck when the collision took place. The steamer would be about eight or ten yards off, and he went and called the boys to come, but they were only making their way up when the collision took place. He went down to the cabin and got the youngest boy up and put him at the head of the stairs, and was down searching for the other when the water had risen to the cabin table. The yacht was sinking rapidly, and witness was assisted out of the cabin by the rush of water that came up.
“Cross-examined by Mr Shand: Capt. Buchanan has paid me £1,400 on account of the loss I sustained by the yacht. The cost was originally £900, but witness paid £500 or £600 for her.
“John M‘Donald was pilot of the Eagle when the collision happened. Had not a certificate. Steered part of the way, and was relieved at Gourock. Went down off the hurricane deck to use the water-closet. The captain was then on the hurricane deck, and James Munn was at the wheel. When witness came out of the water-closet and saw the yacht near he ran up the hurricane deck and gave two knocks to slow, and ported the wheel.
“James Munn, deck-hand in the Eagle, relieved M‘Donald at the wheel after leaving Gourock. Was standing on the port-side of the wheel. Never saw the yacht till the pilot ran to the wheel. The funnels prevented his seeing the yacht.
“By Mr Shand—Witness steered the usual course to Kirn. M‘Donald was generally on the deck at that part of the run. He generally stood about the foremost funnel. Witness heard that he was there on the day when the collision happened.
“By Lord Deas—The man at the wheel cannot see right front for the two funnels.
“Charles Stewart, pilot master, on the river Clyde between Glasgow and Port-Glasgow, said: Steamers are obliged to have certificated pilot between Glasgow and Port-Glasgow. This was the rule under the Merchant Shipping Act. This rule was not compulsory below Port Glasgow. Captain Buchanan was a certificated pilot for the hist 19 years. Capt. M‘Taggart had pilot licences, and could use them either in the Eagle or Rothesay Castle.
“The evidence for the defence showed that the captain of the steamer went below shortly after his vessel left Gourock, leaving her in charge of his pilot, who also left the hurricane deck, the Eagle being then in charge of the seaman Munn; it also showed that but for the steersman of the yacht leaving the wheel, so that the vessel turned to the south, across the Eagle’s bows, the collision might have been avoided.
“The jury were then addressed by the Advocate-Depute and Mr Shand, after which his lordship summed up rather unfavourably for the panel The jury, after an absence of about a quarter of an hour, found unanimously a verdict of not guilty, which was received with great applause in the court. On the applause being suppressed, Lord Deas remarked with a smile, “He is not guilty, but you are all guilty.” The Foreman of the Jury said that they desired to accompany their verdict with the strong opinion that in the River Clyde no captain or mate should leave the deck of his vessel until it arrived at its destination.”—Greenock Telegraph, April 18, 1872.
Captain Buchanan apparently took some time off after the trial but when he returned to command the Eagle, he was immediately involved in another incident, this one with a happier outcome.
“Serious boat accident and gallant rescue by Capt. Buchanan, of the steamer Eagle.— On Friday afternoon four youths were enjoying themselves on the Firth, in a small sailing boat. One being a sailor, and another being practised in boating, the party were rather confident, and used great liberty in the management of their craft. About six o’clock they were seen from Dunoon Pier to be in great difficulty on the south-east side of the Gantock Rocks. Capt. Buchanan, who had only that day resumed sailing, was just on the point of landing his passengers when the alarm was given, “A boat capsized.” With great promptitude the ropes were hauled in ere any passengers had landed, full pressure was put on, and the Eagle steamed out to the scene of the disaster. On the way out the boat was got ready, for there was not a minute to spare. The boat belonging to the youths was found bottom up, and the four poor fellows clinging to it as best they could in a surging sea, two of them being rescued in a collapsed condition and taken on board the Eagle. They were promptly attended to by Dr Gemmell, and, we are glad to say, are doing well.”—Glasgow Herald, April 29, 1872
There were more mundane, but no less serious issues, that had to contend with.
“Serious charge against a passenger wile on board a river steamer.—On Saturday evening, while the river steamer Eagle, Captain Buchanan, was on her upward trip from Rothesay, a passenger named Andrew Wilson, a boiler-maker residing at Wellington Street, Greenock, was given in charge to the Greenock Police on the serious charge of starting the vessel without authority. It appears that while the steamer was lying, with the ropes out at Innellan Quay, and while Captain Buchanan and the other officials on board were attending to the loading and embarkation of passengers, the accused went to the knocker signal communicating with the engine room, and recklessly gave the signal to the engineer to start the steamer full speed. Fortunately, Capt. Buchanan, with great promptitude, succeeded in countermanding the order ere any damage had been done. At Prince’s Pier, Greenock, the accused is alleged to have again given the starting signal, but the object he had in view was likewise frustrated by the presence of mind of Captain Buchanan. The accused was then given in charge to the Greenock police, and to-day he will probably be remitted to the Sheriff authorities. Wilson it is said, was under the influence of drink when brought to the police office.”—Glasgow Herald, June 10, 1872
At the end of the 1872 season, clearly one that had involved a lot of anxiety for Captain Buchanan, his friends rallied around to show their support.
“Testimonial to Captain Buchanan of the Eagle.—Yesterday afternoon, Captain Wm. Buchannan, of the well-known steamer Eagle, was entertained to dinner by a number of gentlemen belonging to the West Scotland, and presented with a handsome silver salver and a purse of sovereigns, as a token of sympathy in connection with his recent troubles, and in acknowledgment of his intrepidity on a late occasion in saving four lives at Dunoon. The proceedings took place on board the Eagle, which left Glasgow at one o’clock with a large party of gentlemen on board, who were joined by others on the arrival of the vessel at Greenock. The Eagle then proceeded to the Gareloch, and thence to Lochlong on a pleasure cruise, which was very much enjoyed, the weather being favourable throughout. At four o’clock dinner was served in the saloon to about 100 gentlemen. Mr W. Wilson, Glasgow, presided, and Mr Hunter, Innellan, and Mr Matthew Pettigrew were the croupiers. Among the gentlemen present were the Rev. Mr M‘Farlane (Rothesay), Councillor Steel, ex-councillor M‘Laren, Captain Buchanan, Captain M‘Lean, Captain M‘Kay, Councillor Scott (Greenock), Messrs J. Stirling, Dewar, Anderson, George Buchanan, junr., Charles M‘Arthur, King, and Brown.
“The Chairman, after dinner, proposed the usual loyal and patriotic toasts, which were duly responded to. The Chairman then made the presentation speech, speaking very highly of Captain Buchanan, and at the close presented him with a silver salver and bank cheque for £625, and his health was heartily pledged. The salver bore the following inscription :—“Presented by a number of friends in Glasgow and the West of Scotland, to Captain William Buchanan, of the steamer Eagle, with a purse containing upwards of 600 sovereigns, as a token of sympathy in his recent unmerited troubles, of congratulation on his honourable acquittal from all blame attachable to these, and in acknowledgment of his intrepidity on a late occasion in saving the lives of four young men off Dunoon.—September, 1872.”
“Captain Buchanan, in reply, assured the donors of the handsome testimonial that he wished to express his thanks for their kindness in a much more able manner than he was capable of doing. When he left Dumbarton, as boy, and passed the Castle on the Clyde, he never expected to see such a day as this when would receive the sympathy and friendship of his fellow men. When a boy he never wished to give offence in any way, but wished to gain the esteem and confidence of all, and the large company which had assembled to do him honour had realised his young day dreams. With regard to the late mishap that took place on the Clyde he need say nothing, as the circumstances were well known. As to the saving of the young men at Dunoon, he on that occasion only did his duty. His crew were with him, and they were as much entitled to the praise as he was, they also had done their duty, and did it promptly. He had had a great deal of expense in connection with the late accident, and they had come forward to assist him, he could assure them, in time need. The present year to him, as a steamboat proprietor, bad not been a successful one, owing to the high price of coals and the prevalence of bad weather. The money therefore was most acceptable, and he begged to thank them heartily for the honour they had done him and the gift they had so kindly bestowed. (Applause.)—Other toasts followed, and songs were sung. In the evening most of the company proceeded to Glasgow per the Eagle.”—Greenock Telegraph, September 13, 1872
In 1873, the early season sailings by Eagle or Rothesay Castle from Glasgow were now at 11 a.m., returning from Rothesay at 4 p.m., times that would become the usual sailings for the Eagle for much of her remaining career. The busy part of the season added a 4 p.m. Glasgow departure and 10.30 a.m. return from Rothesay with additional evening Saturday and early morning sailings on Monday. These extra sailings had the added advantage that Captain Buchanan could spend Sunday in Rothesay.
Captain Buchanan, a long-time resident of Rothesay, was elected to the Burgh Council.
“Rothesay—Election of a Councillor.—Yesterday, the voting took place for a candidate to fill the sixth vacancy in the Council. The contest was between Captain William Buchanan, of the Eagle, and Mr Hugh Macfarlane photographer. At seven o’clock the poll was declared as follows:—Captain William Buchanan, 334; Mr Hugh Macfarlane 288; and Captain Daniel Buchanan (not a candidate), 5. 627, voters polled out of 838 on the roll.”—Glasgow Herald, November 11, 1873
In 1874, the Rothesay Castle was moved to the Ardrossan to Arran station. The Eagle maintained her 11 a.m. slot from the Broomielaw to Rothesay with additional service on Saturday evening and early Monday morning during the height of the season.
“Assault on a steamboat master.—At the Police Court. yesterday, Samuel Liddle, a sea-man, was charged with committing an assault on Captain Buchanan, of the river steamer Eagle, at Prince’s Pier on the 20th ult., and was fined in 42s, or go to jail for 20 days”—Glasgow Herald, September 2, 1874
“Steamboat traffic.—As the season advances, additional steamboat accommodation is being provided the public. On Friday, the fine steamer Eagle, Captain Buchanan, resumed her station between Glasgow and Rothesay; and early this month the Elaine is advertised to begin sailing. It is expected that the new steamer Windsor Castle will be ready about the middle of May, and will take her station between Glasgow and Lochgoilhead, via Kilcreggan and Dunoon. On Saturday, a large number of steamers proceeded on pleasure excursions to I various places on the firth, and most of them were fairly patronised. Yesterday, the Dunoon Castle resumed sailing between Glasgow, Largs and Rothesay. The steamer Kingston likewise commenced making two trips on Sunday between Glasgow, Greenock, and Gourock.”—Glasgow Herald, May 3, 1875
Over the winter of 1875, the Eagle underwent a considerable change. She was lengthened by 15 feet and re-engined with a single-diagonal engine provided by Messrs King & Co., Glasgow, that at 85 h.p., was of less power than her previous double-diagonal set. Her old engine was retained to be transferred to the Brodick Castle that replaced the Rothesay Castle on the Ardrossan to Arran station after the latter was sold to French owners. The re-boilering of the Eagle required a single funnel and she re-emerged looking sleeker and faster.
“River steamboat traffic.—To-day, the steamer Undine resumes her Glasgow and Rothesay station for the season, leaving Glasgow at 10 a.m., and Rothesay at 2.30 p.m. The other steamers sailing from Glasgow are the Windsor Castle for Lochgoilhead at 9, the Vesta for Kilmun at 12, and the afternoon boat for Rothesay. The Mountaineer continues to sail from Greenock at 9 a.m. for Ardrishaig, and the Balmoral for Helensburgh and Garelochhead. The favourite steamer Eagle, having got an extensive overhaul during the winter, is to appear as a “flyer” this summer, while the new boats building for the Kilmun and Ayr routes are expected to prove clippers.”—Glasgow Herald, March 13, 1876
“On Saturday, the steamer Eagle, after having received an extensive overhaul, and undergone many important alterations and improvements, proceeded down the river on a preliminary trial. The external appearance of this fine steamer has been greatly changed for the better.”—Glasgow Herald, March 27, 1876
Single-funneled Eagle racing Dunoon Castle, then a Sunday breaker, off Gourock. Dunoon Castle acquired her second funnel in the same year as Eagle lost hers (Robertson)
It would appear that Captain Buchanan was no longer taking an active command of the Eagle, and she had Captain Alexander Gillies as master.
“The fine steamer Eagle is this year travelling like a racehorse, and giving great satisfaction. Her hour from Glasgow to Rothesay is 11 o’clock, and from Rothesay to Glasgow at 4 p.m.”—Glasgow Herald, May 21, 1877
“Collision between the Viceroy and the Eagle—Conviction of their master.—Yesterday, in the River Bailie Court—before Bailie Laing—Alexander Williamson, jun., master of the steamer Viceroy, and Alexander Gillies, master of the steamer Eagle, were charged with culpable, negligent, and reckless conduct in navigating or steering their respective vessels near Dunoon pier on Monday week, in consequence of which they came into collision, whereby the stem of the steamer Eagle was damaged, and the lives of the passengers and crew of both vessels endangered. Mr Lang prosecuted, and Mr Borland appeared for Mr Gillies, and Mr Bird, writer, for Mr Williamson. When the collision took place both vessels were making for Dunoon, the Eagle being bound up the river, the Viceroy being on her downward voyage. The evidence was of an exceedingly contradictory character, but the majority of the witnesses concurred in saying that the Viceroy approached at more than the usual rate of speed, that she struck the pier near the centre, and rebounding, came into coilision with the bow of the Eagle, the latter vessel being at the time almost, if not altogether stationary. The hearing of the evidence occupied upwards of four hours; and at the close Mr Bird was heard for Gillies, and Mr Borland for Williamson. Bailie Laing said he had no difficulty in making up his mind to find both parties guilty, and his decision was supported by the assessor, Mr Muirhead. There could be no doubt there had been recklessness on the part of the masters of both these steamers. He was glad to bear testimony to the fact that our river steamers were well managed, and had generally the confidence of the public. At the same time cases of this kind of thing had occurred within the last few months more frequently than they wished to see; and the offenders must be punished. He considered that the masters of both these steamers approached the quay at too high a rate of speed; and it was evident that if the master of the Eagle had not pulled up in time, the consequences might have been serious. He imposed on each of the accused, a penaty of £5, with the alternative of 60 days’ imprisonment. Bailie Shankland, Greenock, who was a witness in the case, suggested that some regulation should be made as to the order in which vessels should take the piers on the river; and Mr Muirhead, the assessor, said he should communicate with Mr Reith, the secretary of the Clyde Trust, on the subject.”—Glasgow Herald, August 21, 1877
Between 1878 and 1880, Captain Buchanan added the Brodick Castle, Elaine, and Scotia to his fleet, allowing him to provide three daily sailings to Rothesay. The Eagle maintained her 11 a.m. sailing time from Glasgow and the 4 p.m. return from the Bute capital. By 1880, the veteran of 1864 remained a firm favourite with the public but the introduction of new steamers with deck saloons such as the Ivanhoe and Buchanan’s own Scotia were beginning to have an impact.
Eagle with single funnel at the Broomielaw with Scotia berthed ahead
At the end of 1880, an unwelcome remnant of the early days of Captain Buchanan’s steamboat enterprise came to public view.
“Court of Session—First Division—Friday, December 17.—Appeal.—Wm Buchanan v. James Davie. This was an appeal by Wm. Buchanan, steam-boat master, Carlton Place, Glasgow, against an interlocutor pronounced in the Sheriff Court, Glasgow, by the Sheriff-Subsitute in an action brought against him by James Davie, marine architect, High Street, Dumbarton. The conclusion of the summons were to have the defender ordained to give a full account of his intromissions and receipts as managing partner in a joint adventure or partnership entered into between the pursuer and defender and John Cook, sometime brassfounder in Glasgow, in January, 1864, for the purchase and working of the paddle-steamer Eagle, and afterwards extended to the purchase and working of the paddle steamers Rothesay Castle, Brodick Castle, and Elaine; and to pay pursuer the sum of £10,000 or such other sum as might be found to be due. Defender stated that he had all along been willing to account to pursuer for his intromissions in connection with and interest retained by pursuer, if he had any, in the Eagle, and that pursuer had no interest in any of the other vessels.
“After hearing evidence, the Sheriff-Substitute, (Guthrie) on 21st May last, issued an interlocutor, making a number of findings to the effect that the pursuer had never been paid out or ceased to be partner of the joint adventure; that in April, 1867, defender, with the knowledge and approval of pursuer and Cook, bought the steamer Rothesay Castle for £3,500, and afterwards employed her in the same trade as the Eagle, which was the first purchase of the copartnery; that the whole price of the Rothesay Castle was obtained from a bank on the security of mortgage over the Eagle and of promissory notes granted by pursuer and Cook; that the defender failed to rebut the presumption arising that the Rothesay Castle was purchased and employed as partnership property, and as part of the joint adventure; that the Eagle is still held and employed in the same trade under the defender’s management; that the Rothesay Castle was sold in 1879; that the pursuer had failed to prove that he is a joint owner or partner of the defender in the steamers Brodick Castle and Elaine, and the Sheriff-Substitute assoilzied the defender from the prayer of the petition so far as it craved an accounting for the profits derived from these steamships. He in accordance with these findings ordained the defender to lodge a full account of his intromissions and receipts connected with steamers Eagle and Rothesay Castle. By a subsequent interlocutor, dated 15th June, the Sheriff-Substitute, in respect the defender had failed to lodge the account ordered, held him as confessed, and decerned against him in favour of the pursuer for £10,000.
“Both parties appealed against these interlocutors, and to-day at the advising, Lord Shand, who gave the leading opinion, said that the parties were agreed that there was a partnership or joint adventure in the Eagle entered into in 1864. It appeared that in the previous year a steamer which bore the same name had been purchased by certain parties of whom Davie and Buchanan were two, and sold in that year as a blockader, and a considerable profit had been made upon the transaction. The next year a new steamer was purchased, of which Captain Buchanan held 5/8ths, and pursuer 2/8ths, and Mr Cook 1/8th. This steamer in the course of running from 1864 to 1865 had produced profits to a considerable amount. There was a division in both of these years of the profits in the proportions mentioned; so that, so far as the Eagle was concerned, the pursuer was entitled to the accounting he sought. There seemed to be a feeling in the Court that in consequence of a series of money transactions that had taken place between the pursuer’s claim for an accounting was entirely or to a large extent extinguished; but there could be no doubt that the view of the Sheriff-Substitute was sound that, as there never had been any settlement or paying out of Davie in connection with the partnership, he remained a partner so far as the Eagle was concerned, and was still a partner to the extent of 2/8ths. But the question really in dispute related to the Rothesay Castle and Brodick Castle. It appeared that in 1867, three sears after the Eagle had been purchased, the Rothesay Castle was purchased, and, just as the Eagle had been, by arrangement was registered in the name of Buchanan, he representing himself and his co-owners. The Rothesay Castle was put on the station between Ardrossan and Arran, until she was sold by Captain Buchanan in 1879. The question between the parties was whether from 1869, the date of the purchase, down to 1879, when she was sold, Mr Davie was entitled to an accounting for the profits thus made. The Sheriff-Substitute had decided on this point in favour of the pursuer, and it appeared to his Lordship that the Sheriff had arrived at a sound result upon the question. The considerations which had led him to that opinion were that they found the purchases were made by Buchanan, one of the joint-adventurers, for the purpose of working the steamer in the very same line of traffic in which the Eagle had been engaged and the mode in which the purchase had been made. The way in which the price was raised was of itself sufficient to show that the purchase of the Rothesay Castle was a transaction for the copartnery. The price of the vessel at the time of her purchase was paid by means of acceptances between Buchanan, Davie, and Cook, the co-adventurers and as a security to the bank for the advances, in addition to these acceptances, mortgaged the partnership property to the bank. These circumstances if they stood alone, would probably be sufficient for the decision of this question as one of law, for if the managing partner of business of this kind extended that business in the natural line of it, as was done here by procuring another vessel to be used in the same trade, and if use the partnership property was security for the price or the purchases, the conclusion was irresistible that they must be partnership property, unless it could be very clearly shown that an agreement to the contrary had been made. His Lordship at great length, examined the evidence bearing upon the transactions, and the conclusion at which he reached was that the Sheriff-Substitute’s judgement was right, but he would alter the interlocutor so as to read—”Finds that the Eagle is still held and employed in the same trade under the defender’s management; and that the Rothesay Castle, which was sold by the defender in 1879, was partnership property, and was employed as such from the time of the purchase till the day of sale.”
“The other Judges concurred, and the Court accordingly recalled the interlocutor, giving decree for £10,000, adhered to the first interlocutor, and remitted the case back to the Sheriff Court for an accounting. Expenses were refused in this Court, and it was stated that the Sheriff would dispose of the expenses in the inferior Court at the termination of the process. Counsel for Pursuer and Respondent—Mr Kinnear and Mr Jameson. Agents—Campbell & Smith, S.S.C. Counsel for Defender—Mr Asher and Mr E. V. Campbell Agents—J. & J. Ross, W.S.”—Glasgow Herald, December 18, 1880
Eagle leaving the Broomielaw in the early 1880s with Captain M’Lean’s Athole at the quay and Captain Campbell’s Vivid across the river (Valentine)
In September 1883, Captain Buchanan was featured in the “Man you know” column of the Bailie.
Captain William Buchanan (Bailie)
“Captain Buchanan was born in Dumbarton in the year 1823, some six weeks after his father had been accidentally drowned off the Cloch Lighthouse. By the time he had reached six years age, his grandfather used to take him in the summer months in his coaster to the West Highlands, and by eleven he had made a start in life as a boy in the coasting trade. Half a century ago such a training, for one of such tender years, was even more severe than now-a-days, and it can hardly be wondered at that as he grew older the Man you Know became ambitious to change the sea for the shore by learning to be engineer, and with this in view became the first apprentice blacksmith in the shop of Messrs A. M‘Millan & Son, shipbuilders, Dumbarton. But the failing health of his grandfather obliged him to return to the sea, and at the mature age of seventeen William Buchanan found himself in charge of the craft on which the family was dependent. Some five years afterwards he made a further advance in life by getting his first boat built by his old employer, Mr Archibald M‘Millan, who seems thus early to have formed a favourable opinion of his future. A year after, however, Captain Buchanan changed the scene of his labours from the Clyde to the Forth, where he successfully traded for seven years, in connection with Kinneil Iron Works, Bo’ness. But his ambition longed for a wider sphere than the Carron shore, and in 1853 he was enabled to attain his desire to get into the steam traffic by Messrs G. & J. Burns in that year having disposed of all their river steamers to Messrs Wm. Denny Bros., Dumbarton. Captain Buchanan and some friends bought one of these called the Eagle, then as since one of the best known names among the steamers plying to Rothesay. In addition to the present vessel of that name he and his family now own the Brodick Castle, Elaine, and Scotia, all favourably known to the travelling public. In recent years the neglect of the Clyde Trustees to provide proper accommodation at the Broomielaw, and the great increase of railway facilities have almost entirely diverted the daily travellers to the coast from the river sail, but by the convenience of the hours of sailing and excellent general management, the Man you Know has always enjoyed a liberal share of the trade to Rothesay and intermediate towns, both by the river and in connection with the railways. For a number of years his steamers have had a monopoly of the Ardrossan and Arran trade, a service which he has conducted under arrangement with the Glasgow and South Western Railway with anxious desire to suit the convenience of the many frequenters of that most health-giving and beautiful of islands. Captain Buchanan has always proved himself skilful and careful commander, attentive alike to the safety and creature comforts of his passengers, and anxious to render the many little services which help to reduce the inconveniences incident to the hurry-scurry and occasional crowding of steamboat travelling. Like most people who have risen from the ranks, the Captain has his own way of doing things, but the esteem in which is hold his fellow-skippers and owners, and the host of friends who have stood by him when his sky was clouded as well as clear, prove that among his intimates and the general public he has been successful in gaining other riches besides material prosperity.—From “Men you Know ” in the Bailie September, 1883
In January 1885, Captain Buchanan purchased the fleet of steamers previously owned by Messrs Keith and Campbell. The steamers sailed to the Holy Loch and the Gareloch and included the Guinevere that sailed to Lamlash by Rothesay and Kilchattan Bay.
“Clyde river steamers.—The fleet of paddle-wheel passenger steamers belonging to Messrs. Keith & Campbell—viz , the Benmore, Vivid, Guinevere, Vesta, Hero, Balmoral, and Shandon have been sold by the trustees on Messrs. Keith & Campbell’s estate to Captain Buchanan, owner of the Glasgow and Rothesay, and Ardrossan and Arran steamers. We understand Captain Buchanan will continue these newly acquired steamers on their ordinary routes between Glasgow and Holy Loch, and Glasgow, Helensburgh, and the Gareloch, and the Glasgow and Arran via Rothesay route.”—Paisley Gazette, January 10, 1885
It was not long before Captain Campbell acquired another steamer for the Kilmun station to oppose his old boat.
“The river steamboat traffic —Several of the river steamers have again resumed their stations for the season, and active arrangements are now being made among the more prominent favourites which have been laid up in Bowling harbours during the winter preparatory to their being likewise put into commission. The coming season promises to be a very busy one, and active competition on several routes and extended facilities on others are likely to take place. Yesterday the Meg Merrilees (to be re-named Blairmore), which has been acquired by Captain Robt. Campbell formerly of the Benmore and other well-known,steamers on the Kilmun route, appeared on the station as a rival to his old fleet. The Meg Merrilees presented a very attractive appearance, and was well patronized—the presence of Captain Campbell on the paddle box being hailed by large numbers at the various quays with evident satisfaction. The Benmore, which is now owned by Captain Buchanan, will sail in opposition to the Meg Merrilees, both steamers being advertised to sail from the same quay at the same hours. The Marquis of Bute, under Captain M‘Lean, has again resumed the Rothesay station, leaving Giasgow at 1 p.m. and Rothesay at 7.15 a.m. The Sultan (Captain Alex. Williamson on the paddle-box) has also taken up the Glasgow, Rothesay, and Kyles of Bute route, leaving Glasgow at 2.40 and Port Bannatyne at 8.10, proceeding to the Kyles three days each week. The Elaine (one of Captain Buchanan’s now numerous fleet) begins on the Rothesay station to-morrow, leaving Glasgow at 10 and Rothesay at 2.20. This year there will be three new candidates for public favour—viz., the Grenadier, belonging to Mr David MacBrayne, which was launched yesterday at Clydebank; the new North British boat, and Captain Campbell’s new saloon steamer, which is being built at Paisley. The Campbeltown Steam Packet Company is also having built a fast twin-screw steamer which is expected to occupy the station on the daily run to and from Campbeltown, same as was performed by the steamer Gael”—Glasgow Herald, March 20, 1885
Eagle leaving the Broomielaw in 1885 with Buchanan’s Benmore, still in the Campbell (Holy Loch) livery at the quay nearest the camera with Captain Cambell’s Meg Merrilies at the quay further down river.p
The Guinevere, for many years on the Arran route from the Broomielaw by Rothesay and Garroch Head, was past her prime. The competition from the Ivanhoe, sailing from Helensburgh, with her superior speed and saloon accommodation, and despite the teetotal offerings of the steward’s department was a problem for Captain Buchanan. In August 1885, the faster Scotia, commanded by Captain Gillies, replaced Guinevere on the Arran route. This was repeated in 1886 with Scotia sailing for Rothesay and Arran at 8 a.m., with three further departures for Rothesay:—Elaine at 9.20 a.m., Guinevere at 10 a.m. and Eagle at her regular time of 11 a.m.
The sale of the Brodick Castle in 1887 resulted in the transfer of the Scotia to the Ardrossan to arran station. To replace Scotia, Eagle underwent another transformation. This time into a “double saloon” steamer with a new deck saloon placed on top of the raised quarterdeck. While this detracted from her appearance, it provided some excellent accommodation, including a dining saloon where the beauties of the route could be enjoyed.
“The Clyde coast season for 1887. On the Arran route Captain Buchanan’s fine saloon steamer Eagle and Captain Wiliamson’s Ivanhoe will run in friendly rivalry, beginning on Wednesday. The Eagle (Captain Gillies) takes the place of the Scotia, which has been transferred to the Ardrossan and Arran station. The Eagle has undergone very extensive alterations during the spring. She has been fitted up with a very fine saloon on the top of the raised deck, which gives her splendid dining accommodation. All the “creature comforts” can also be obtained on board, and no restriction is placed upon the tourist as to what he shall eat or what he shall drink. Her rival, the Ivanhoe, is to be continued for another year on teetotal principle, but, while in the past the course adopted by the directors in this respect may have had some advantages, it has, we believe, been pecuniarily demonstrated that the principle does not earn dividends of a satisfactory kind. This season, we understand, an attempt was made by Captain Williamson to induce some of the influential shareholders of the company to consent to sell wines and liquors as in other passenger steamers on the Clyde, but in this he was not successful, and the “cup that cheers but not inebriates” is to remain the Ivanhoe “tipple” for another year.
“On the Rothesay station a similar fleet to that of last year will give an excellent service from Glasgow, the Elaine, Vivid, Benmore, Sultana, Viceroy, Sultan, Marquis of Bute, Athole, &c., sailing at brief intervals.”—Glasgow Herald, May 30, 1887
Glasgow Herald, June 24, 1887
“Double saloon” steamer Eagle
“The fine saloon steamer Eagle has been chartered by the Ayr Junior Conservatives, and it is to be hoped the young Tories will be as warmly supported as formerly. The Eagle—launched in 1864—was rather original in design, having two boilers in front of her paddles. She was, however, found to be rather short for the west power of her engines, and after her first season was lengthened abaft of the engines some 30 feet. After running successfully for many years, she was again altered by having her engines (double diagonal) and boilers taken out, and a single diagonal engine and one large boiler put in instead. This had the double effect of making her go faster and consume less coal. This year she has again been improved by having a new saloon built on top of the old making her one of the most commodious, as well as one of the fastest, boats on the Clyde.”—Ayrshire Weekly News, July 29 1887
Eagle approaching Brodick pier (Washington Wilson)
Captain Buchanan died at 9.15 a.m. on October 25th at his home in Lamlash Arran. The official cause of death was heart disease. A simple intimation was placed in the Glasgow Herald, but some of the coastal newspapers provided touching obituaries. His remains were transported from Lamlash to Dumbarton for interment on his steamer, Eagle, a fitting end to an era.
“Death of Captain William Buchanan.—The news that Captain Buchanan, sen., had died last Saturday, sudden though the event was, could hardly be regarded as much of a surprise to the great body of the public, for many would probably have thought that his age would have been greater than 67. This opinion, if it was current, arose from the great activity of the deceased gentleman’s life. It is many years since he first sought his bread upon the waters. Among his first enterprises was the conveying of building stone and other materials on the East Coast. The old sloop Scotia, which plied on the Clyde for many years, was his property. Business succeeded to such an extent that a tug steamer was necessary, and Captain Buchanan sailed her. He afterwards, in conjunction with Captain Alexander Williamson, sen., entered on the Clyde passenger trade and after a short time struck an independent career for himself, which has been followed by marked success. In 1853 he took command of the Eagle and that name has been borne by two or three steamers of which he has been proprietor. As the years went on, he added other vessels until the fleet now Includes the Eagle, Scotia, Benmore, Guinevere. Vivid, Elaine, Shandon, and Balmoral. For a long series of years Captain Buchanan resided in Rothesay, first in Bishop Street and afterwards in a fine house which stood opposite the Bute Estate Office, in the comer which has been cleared, excavated, and added to the Castle grounds. Although much engaged in his growing business the captain was so popular that the electors induced him to enter Rothesay Town Council, of which he was a valuable member for some time. Subsequently taking up the Arran traffic, he built Kinneil, a beautiful residence at Lamlash, where after an illness of not more than ten days, he died last Saturday, leaving a widow and four sons and five daughters, three of the former being engaged in the steamboat traffic. While a severe cold, acting on a weakness of the heart was the immediate cause of death, the deceased gentleman had suffered acutely for many years from a painful malady; but while he had retired from active service, he remained a genial neighbour and ever retained the high respect of the very wide circle who knew him. The flags of all the river steamers were at half-mast on Monday and again on Wednesday, the day of the funeral, which took place at Dumbarton, his native town.”—Rothesay Chronicle, November 1, 1890
“In Memoriam Captain William Buchanan.—The death of Captain William Buchanan, at his residence, Kinneil, Lamlash, Saturday last, will be learned with regret, not in Arran alone, but over a wide district of country, for to know him was to esteem and love him. If one of the best known Clyde river steamboat owners, he was at the same time one of the most respected. Genial, warm-hearted, liberal, he will for long time be remembered by all who enjoyed his friendship.
“His death, we learn, was somewhat sudden. He had only been confined to the house for ten days with a severe cold; but this brought on an old complaint of heart, and which was the immediate cause of death. He was a native of Dumbarton, born 1823, and was thus at death, 67 years of age. Six weeks after his birth, his father (who owned and sailed a vessel) was drowned off the Cloch, and so the future skipper was taken in hand by his grandfather, also a sailor. When he was 11 years of age he began his unfailing career in the coasting trade, and six years later was placed in charge of a vessel trading to the West Highlands. His first steamer was the Eagle, which he acquired in 1853, and when he died his fleet of steamers included the Eagle, Scotia, Elaine, Benmore, Vivid, Guinevere, Shandon, and Balmoral. The opposition this season received from the Duchess of Hamilton, we think, might possibly aggravate the heart complaint; and this is to be said for the travelling public from Ayrshire that they were full of sympathy “for the old man” thus handicapped by opposition, after he had so efficiently, and for such a length of time, kept his boats on the Ardrossan and Arran Station.
“After service in the house, conducted the Rev. P. Robertson, of the Established Church, Lamlash, the remains were, on Wednesday, removed to the steamer Eagle—the oldest of his fleet, lying at Lamlash Pier, and conveyed to Dumbarton, where they were same day interred. The funeral was private.
“The late Captain Buchanan is survived by Mrs Buchanan, and nine of a family—four sons and five daughters. Three of the sons are engaged in the business so successfully carried on by their father.”—Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, October 31, 1890
Eagle crossing Rothesay Bay (Adamson)
The Eagle continued to sail on the Arran route until 1892 when the new Isle of Arran was launched to replace her. The two steamers shared the route for a year but the following year saw Eagle back on her 11 a.m. sailing to Rothesay. In 1885, Eagle was sold to provide passenger sailings on the newly opened Manchester Ship Canal. She was scrapped in 1897.
Eagle on the Manchester Ship Canal