29/05/2026
REMEMBERING WAVERLEY (1899)
29th May marks two significant anniversaries in the history of Waverley.
On 29th May 1899, the original Paddle Steamer Waverley was launched on the River Clyde. She served communities around the Clyde coast for more than four decades until the outbreak of war when she was requisitioned for war service.
Exactly 41 years later, on 29th May 1940, Waverley was lost during the Dunkirk Evacuation. She took part in Operation Dynamo, helping to evacuate aallied troops from the beaches of Dunkirk. She was struck by enemy bombs and sank. Several members of her crew lost their lives in the service of their country.
Today, we remember the crew of the original Waverley and all those who took part in the Dunkirk Evacuation. Their courage, sacrifice and service form an important part of the ship's story.
Although the original Waverley was lost, her legacy endured.
