MAPS Member David Handscombe (retired from the Royal Navy after 35 years of service), recently concluded his research of many years into the third vessel of the IOM Steam Packet Co to bear the name King Orry. She was the only vessel requisitioned from the Steam Packet to serve in the Royal Navy in both world wars.

Sadly the King Orry was one of 3 Steam Packet vessels lost at Dunkirk in 1940 with heavy loss of life.

David’s book is an excellent and meticulously researched publication with over 200 pages and including many photographs of her in service with the Steam Packet and at war serving under the White Ensign.

David signed copies of his book at the Museum on Easter Saturday from 1:00 pm to 4:30 pm.

The publishers of the book, Ferry Publications, have kindly agreed that one third of the price of the book (£24.95) will go to the ongoing upkeep and development of the Museum, which is a Registered Charity operated by volunteers.  

David says that now that he has completed this piece of work, he is happy to add his abilities to those already at the Museum to continue the ongoing research and presentation of material of a naval nature.

He adds, “there is already material on display at the Museum relating to naval operations on the island (e.g. HMS Urley, Valkyrie & St George). The Museum already holds a considerable amount of material, but this is yet to be integrated into relevant displays. In addition, there remains much research to carry out into the many aspects of naval operations involving the IOM, especially into those men and women who left the island to serve in the Navy.”

The Museum is currently gathering material with a view to presenting the story of the “Steam Packet at War” and to further enhance its Royal Navy displays.