Historic maritime steamship celebrates two decades of preservation by volunteers and supporters

A historic restored UK steamship, the SS Daniel Adamson – affectionately known as 'The Danny' – has celebrated its 20^th anniversary of being saved, on its berth at Sutton Weaver Swing Bridge in Cheshire.

The celebration in September 2024 brought together volunteers, supporters and partners to commemorate two decades of dedication to saving the maritime steam-powered tugboat treasure from being scrapped.

The vessel had a role at the Manchester Ship Canal during the Battle of the Atlantic, towing into port the vessels that had safely crossed the ocean destined for Manchester. Long-time Nautilus member Captain David McNamee, who is also a skipper of the restored steamship, gave a talk onboard during the Battle of the Atlantic 80^th anniversary commemorations in 2023. After nearly 50 years in the Merchant Navy, Capt McNamee became a lecturer at Fleetwood Nautical Campus (part of Blackpool and the Fylde College) and volunteered for working on The Danny after seeing an advertisement.

Originally built in 1903 at what is now Cammell Laird shipyard in Birkenhead, The Danny was once also a vital part of the region's busy working waterways. From towing Mersey and Cheshire barges alongside grand ocean liners in the Edwardian era, to facing dereliction and near-destruction in 2004, the steam tug’s journey has been one of resilience and revival. 

Thanks to the tireless work of the SS Daniel Adamson Preservation Society, The Danny has since been restored to her former glory, serving not only as a unique events venue but also as an educational platform that fosters an understanding of Liverpool’s maritime heritage.

Captain McNamee commented that it was 'most important that the skills of ship handling of yesteryear', are retained as an important part of recognising maritime history and heritage.

'We have an MCA passenger certificate for 100 [passengers] and as a master I encourage the crew to capture the imagination of our passengers and make their time on board as interesting and enjoyable as possible.

'I would encourage anyone with an interest in ships and shipping to become a volunteer on the SS Daniel Adamson.'

The Danny has worked in partnership with the Canal & River Trust, Liverpool John Moores University, and National Museums Liverpool on a maritime future skills project funded by The National Lottery to equip college students with practical skills around maritime sustainability and vessel design.

• Do you volunteer to maintain or operate a historic ship – whether in the UK, the Netherlands or elsewhere? Let us know about your work by emailing telegraph@nautilusint.org.